#saying they have an 'almond mom' when their pantry is so full of food and snacks and ingredients i could live off it for 6 months

[the-doggy-diaries]

sooo annoying that one of my friends is like "and when mitski said 'mom wld u wash my back this once...' i felt that" when they get monthly automatic deposits into their bank account .... washing your back is all she does girl cmon 😭

[super-cosmic-library]

Part 4

part 3, part 2, part 1, ao3

“His dad literally tried to shove me into a locker, Chris,” Eddie whined as he washed the rest of the homemade avocado facemask off his face. “He was such a cliché bully, it was boring. And Steve looks almost exactly like him, but somehow I’m turned on by him? Am I actually insane?”

Chrissy rolled her eyes. Eddie had been going on about Steve nonstop since they dropped him off. At first, it was cute to see her best friend all flustered by his crush, but after a nearly thirty-minute monologue about the guy’s ass while the two did their end-of-week skincare routines, she was ready to change the subject.

“You need a drink?” Chrissy hollered from the kitchen, taking a can of La Croix from the fridge for herself. It filled her with warmth every time she saw them in there. She knew Eddie kept those drinks in there just for her. Neither of the men who lived there drank the stuff.

“Yes, please. God, I’m famished.”

She grabbed an already open bag of blood and shut the door behind her.

She’d known her best friend was a vampire for a long time. She had kind of figured it out when they started hanging out her junior year and she’d realized he had been a senior since she began high school. She didn’t know what the teachers thought, but she’d reasoned that there was no way someone could go through senior year that many times and not just drop out altogether. There had to be a bigger reason.

She took Eddie’s favorite mug—a plain white one with the words “World’s Foxiest Grandma” written in black and a picture of Garfield in a curly grey wig, a green knit shaw, and pink readers on it—off the rack on the wall and poured it half full with blood. He never needed much more for a feeding.

She placed what little remained in the bag back in the fridge, then passed the mug over to Eddie as he entered the kitchen, fresh-faced and mischievous. Although, he almost always had a mischievous glint in his eye. It was a practically permanent fixture.

She cracked open her sparkling water as he took a long sip from his mug.

“Remind me to never skip feeding ever again,” he said, licking blood from his upper lip.

She shook her head, unimpressed that a man his age struggled with taking basic care of himself. “How you’ve been able to keep yourself alive for so long is beyond me.”

“Wayne.”

“You’re a grown-ass man, and you let your brother take care of you?” Chrissy didn’t get to swear at home or anywhere else her mom might hear of it, so she reveled in doing so in the privacy of the trailer.

“What can I say? My brother is my keeper, or whatever the fuck they teach in Sunday school.”

“The fact that you know that much is impressive,” she said, vaguely remembering something like that from her own years of Sunday morning bible classes.

“Excuse you, I read my Bible every day and go to church on Sundays.”

“I find that hard to believe. You’d burst into flames if you set foot in a church, and that’s not even because of the whole vampire thing. That’s just a you thing.”

Eddie grinned wickedly. “You flatter me.”

She gave his shoulder a good shove, and he cackled in response.

Eddie threw a bag of popcorn in the microwave and started rifling through the cabinets for any other junk foods that tickled his fancy. The first time they had a “girl’s night,” Chrissy had been amazed by the abundance of junk food the Munsons had. She knew people bought things like snack cakes and potato chips, otherwise, why would stores stock them? However, because her pantry had always been filled with dried fruits, rice cakes, and almonds for snacks, she thought that was how it was for everyone. This thought had only been reinforced by her friends on the squad having very similar pantries, at least from what she saw when she went to sleepovers and study sessions at their houses.

Her mother had spent years drilling into her head how bad junk food was for her health. Growing up, the only times she ever got to have dessert were when she went to her grandma’s house. Even then, it was only one oatmeal raisin cookie after dinner. She was never allowed to eat cake at her classmates’ birthday parties. She didn’t even get to eat ice cream–only frozen yogurt with fresh fruit toppings. And afterward, her mom would force her to go on runs with her to burn off the calories.

So when Eddie first started offering her snacks when she came over, she was hesitant, to say the least. Of course, she was worried about what would happen to her figure if she ate even a single Oreo. How could she not be, after being drilled on the dangers of processed foods? But more than that, she was scared of how her mother might react if she found out Chrissy had eaten something that contained trans fats. And she would know it, right? Her mom would be able to smell the high fructose corn syrup on her breath, right?

Chrissy about damn near had a panic attack the first time she accepted an Oatmeal Cream Pie from Eddie. It was made with oatmeal. It had it in the name! It should have been healthy, right? But her body had betrayed her after she finished half of it. It wasn’t used to eating something that had more than three ingredients listed on the package. So as her stomach cramped, all she could think about was how disappointed her mother would be.

Chrissy had contemplated going to the bathroom to force herself to throw up. She knew bulimia was dangerous, so she only did it on occasion and only when she had access to a toothbrush. However, she could make an exception. Especially, she felt as bad as she had.

She hadn’t realized she was crying until Eddie asked her what was wrong.

There was something about him that made her feel safe. Like she could be herself around him and talk without a filter, and he wouldn’t judge her or talk behind her back about it. It was something she noticed during their first interaction and the feeling only grew stronger the more they became friends.

That night, she’d broken down and confessed her tumultuous relationship with food–something she had never done aloud. Eddie had sat there silently and listened as she poured out her heart. All of the not gettings and the not wantings and all of the instant regrettings. It left her feeling exposed and scared, though not because of what his reaction to all of it might be but because of what these issues she struggled with might mean about her.

When she had finished, he’d tried his best to comfort her. He had tried to talk things out with her. It helped a little, but the problem was rooted so deep, it had taken months of patient encouragement and talking with Wayne about what an actual healthy diet could look like (and not the crap the women in her mom’s Facebook groups shared) to get to where she was now.

She knew she wasn’t “fixed.” She knew she would always struggle with food to some extent. But now she could eat a slice of veggie pizza for dinner and have Eddie-approved snacks and not have a meltdown afterward. After years of drowning in her mother’s trendy diets and daily exercise regimens, she finally felt like she could breathe.

Chrissy grabbed a bag of M&Ms and poured some into the metal popcorn bowl. If she left Eddie to do it, he would forget to put them in until after the popcorn, which meant they would lose precious time warming up under the heat of the popped kernels. And Chrissy liked them warm.

She padded over to the living room in her fuzzy penguin socks to connect her laptop to the Munsons’ shitty little TV and pull up YouTube.

“No, not this movie again,” Eddie groaned as the intro music to But I’m a Cheerleader filled the room.

“It’s a classic!” She gasped. “Do you hate classics?”

Eddie plopped down on the couch behind her, popcorn bowl resting in his lap. “Only when we’ve already watched them a million times.”

“It has not been a million times.” Chrissy sunk into the couch next to him.

The couch, like many other things in the Munson trailer, was much older than her. She would argue that those things were also much more well-loved than her, but that would start an unwinnable argument between the two of them.

It was one of those couches where the springs were kind of busted and the cushions could no longer keep their shape, so you felt like you were going to be swallowed up whenever you sat down. Then, when two people tried to sit on it, they would always end up tumbling to the center of the couch, all pressed up against each other.

The first time Chrissy ever visited the trailer, she made the mistake of trying to sit next to Eddie on it. She still swore (jokingly) that she had almost been crushed to death by him because of it.

Chrissy loved Eddie’s home because it was nothing like hers. Eddie and Wayne didn’t decorate to impress company as her mother had. They decorated with things that made them happy, like Wayne's hat and mug collections that were displayed along the ceiling of the living room or the framed and completed jigsaw puzzle hanging above Wayne’s sitting chair. It gave the place more character than the abstract paintings her mom had found at Home Goods. Ones that looked like they belonged in a hotel room rather than the house of a suburban family.

The Munsons’ furniture was practical and useful. The tables weren’t replaced because they were mismatched. The lamps were repaired when they broke. Pieces were thrifted and not in the way Chrissy’s mom “thrifted” things–by strolling through different discount stores or scrolling through Wayfair and Etsy. No, these things were found at Goodwill and the Salvation Army. Chrissy should know. When their box TV finally gave out, it was Chrissy and Eddie who spent all day scouring the local thrift stores in search of a new one–picking up clothes and other tchotchkes that caught their eyes and they went along.

The entire trailer was always clean; however, it was also constantly cluttered. This was primarily due to Eddie’s inability to focus on a single task, often setting things down the forgetting they existed. This led to half-painted minis and bottles of paint left on the coffee table. Campaign notes, unfinished homework assignments, and paper scraps of scribbled song lyrics stacked on the kitchen table. A can of hairspray sat next to the toaster. And dozens upon hundreds of guitar picks in the carpet, next to the kitchen sink, in the cupboards, on the bathtub ledge, behind the dryer, wedged between the couch cushions, and so many other places Chrissy couldn’t possibly begin to fathom. The space felt lived in. Unlike her own home, where unless the place was shining, sparkling, and spotless, it was considered a pigsty.

So, yeah, Chrissy preferred spending her time at her best friend’s home much more than she did at her own home.

As the montage of the campers “learning” traditional gender roles played, Chrissy pulled out her box of nail supplies. “What color this week.”

He took a contemplative sip from his mug. “I’m feeling blue.”

“Really?” She asked, setting aside the black nail polish she had been taking out for him. He usually only ever had his nails painted black. On one occasion, he wanted them blood red, but he spent the following days complaining about how bright they were until he finally picked all of the paint off.

“Yeah. Kinda want to switch things up.”

“And this has nothing to do with the blue sweater Steve wore tonight?”

“I am offended that you would accuse me of such behavior.”

“So it has nothing to do with Steve?”

“Absolutely not.” He plucked a midnight blue bottle of nail polish out of her carrying case. The color was so dark, it was nearly black, but there was a slight shimmer to it that one could tell it wasn’t. Maybe she had been wrong, she conceded.

She picked out a lime green color for herself and handed it to Eddie. The two slid down to sit on the floor, so they could use the coffee table to use as a workspace. Chrissy laid her hands palms down on a paper towel. Eddie uncapped the bottle and began to carefully brush the cool paint on her nails.

When they started doing each other’s nails, Chrissy had been surprised at how well Eddie was able to paint hers. Back when they were dating, whenever she asked Jason to help her with her left hand, he always bemoaned doing something so “girly” (his words). Then, he would do such a shit job at actually painting them, that most of the time she would have to scrub it off with nail polish remover and attempt to do it herself to slightly better results. Despite his attitude, she could tell that Jason had actually tried his best to help her out–his face twisting, tongue sticking out of the corner of his mouth in concentration. It wasn’t some sort of attempt at weaponized incompetence, simply inexperience and shaky hands. Even though his complaining had made her feel small, she couldn’t fault him for not trying.

Eddie’s hands, by contrast, were meticulously still. She supposed it made sense due to all of the miniature Dungeons and Dragons figurines he enjoyed painting. He’d ensure the brush wasn’t overloaded with paint, then carefully apply each layer, swiping around her nail with his to collect any excess paint. Because he did this, her nails were always the ones to get painted first. That way, he wouldn’t get any brightly colored paint on his fresh dark nails.

“All joking aside, I’m glad that Steve was able to come tonight. He’s a fun guy. I like how he makes you light up.”

With his wild hair pulled up in a top bun, she was able to see his cheeks flush. “Shut up.”

“It’s true!” She laughed, careful not to jostle her hands. “I like seeing you happy.”

“Well, we should have him bring Buckley next time. How’s that sound, Chris?”

Chrissy turned tomato red. “I swear to god, Eddie.”

“What? What do you swear?” He challenged her.

“I’ll kill you.”

“Pfft,” he waved her off. “That’s an empty threat. You know I can’t die.”

“Then I’ll find a way to end you. Or maybe I’ll just lock you in a coffin and bury you alive. That way you’ll never get out.”

“Cold, Cunningham. Metal, but cold.”

“Thank you.” She grabbed a few pieces of popcorn with the hand Eddie hadn’t painted yet, and popped them in her mouth.

He watched her as she ate. He did that sometimes. It was a little strange, but she knew it came from a place of concern. He wanted to know that she was taking care of herself. Even though she sometimes wanted to shove his face away from her direction, she couldn’t fault him for worrying. She worried about him too.

She worried about what the people in their small-minded town would do if they found out what he was. She was well aware that people in her parents' circles believed with their whole hearts that things like demons and Halloween witches were real. She’d heard some of them rile themselves up by talking about burning witches alive like it was seventeenth-century Salem and not twenty-first-century Hawkins. She wasn’t sure what her parents thought of their friends' righteous rages, but the sheer fact of their keeping those friendships meant Chrissy had to sneak around if she wanted to be herself.

They didn’t know she was friends with Eddie Munson, let alone about their weekly girls’ nights. She let them think she was sleeping over at a teammate’s house. They didn’t know she was a lesbian, despite the rumors at school, or about the Tarot cards and crystals she kept under her bed. She knew that her parents loved her, even though they had a difficult time showing it. But she didn’t know if that love would change if they knew these things. She didn’t really want to know. She looked forward to the day she left for college and would be able to stop feeling like she was sneaking around all the time.

“Maybe we could invite Robin next time?” She said, timidly.

“Fuck yeah,” he pumped his fist in the air. “Mark my words, we are getting you a girlfriend.”

Chrissy giggled. She was really going to miss him when college started next fall.

Tag list:

@yourebuckingkiddingme @mickalaem @live-the-fangirl-life @mojowitchcraft @gregre369 @farfaras @loguine-linguine @spectrum-spectre @sidekick-hero @rozzieroos @steddieloverrr @hellion-child @ littlewildflowerkitten @ novacorpsrecruit @ rainbow-freckle @anaibis @ madigoround @ estrellami-1

[soybeantree]

a baby changes everything pt.2

pairing: do kyungsoo x (reader) genre/warning: artificial insemination, fluff word count: 3.6k description: when you decided to have a baby, you knew everything would change, but this is not what you expected… parts: o1 | a/n: october installment of our ‘trying to write a kyungsoo story for every month that he is gone’ series.

A fresh pile of folders thuds on your desk, and you raise an eye to the Filing Clerk who offers a weak smile. “You said you wanted the reports from the last three years.”

You did. You need them, but they forebode a long day. “Park wants my analysis by this evening?” You clarify, and he nods. You return the gesture before grabbing a clip and twisting 

your hair up and out of your face. No time like the present to begin. 

An alert sounds on your phone when you’re at the halfway point of the report pile. Resurfacing from the sea of numbers, you check the notification and suppress a string of curses. “Parent Teacher Conference” flashes on the screen. You had forgotten. You had promised your son you would remember, and you had forgotten.

The remaining half of the report pile mocks you. You have thirty minutes until the conference and no hope of making it through in time. You swipe away the alert to reveal your lock screen, a photo from Theo’s seventh birthday. Theo had covered the both of you in cake while Kyungsoo, standing behind you, managed to remain cake-free. You pick up the phone to call in the cavalry.

When you had chosen to undergo artificial insemination, against the advice and protestation of your family, you had been prepared to be a single mother. You knew, or at least thought you knew, the challenges you would face and were prepared to handle each one as they arose. After the first weeks with no sleep, no chance to shower, and no concept of self, you had been more than happy to have someone who would come on the first call.

Kyungsoo answers on the first ring. As the heir and president of a multinational corporation, one would expect to reach a secretary or voice-mail, but he answers each time. 

“If Theo is still insisting that his grandfather will get him a pony for Christmas, know that I have spoken with his grandfather about it.”

“Theo hasn’t said anything about a pony.” You switch the phone to your other ear and close the file in front of you. “Have I missed a conversation?” The other end remains silent.

“Rather than offer other suggestions for your call, please tell me why you are calling.” 

You chew the inside of your cheek for a moment before deciding the parent teacher conference is the more pressing issue. Kyungsoo agrees the moment you mention it. He already had it on his schedule. You can hear him climbing into his car before the call ends. With crisis averted, you return to the pile of reports.

Kyungsoo texts you when the conference ends – it went well - and asks if he can take Theo to dinner and ice cream. You agree. You have nearly finished your analysis but still need to do some grocery shopping, and grocery shopping is always easier without a seven-year-old. 

They are waiting at the park down the street from your apartment when you walk by with your arm full of groceries. The bags dig into your arms, and a stray strand of hair refuses to leave your eye alone no matter how many times you blow it out of the way. After another failed attempt, you call out to the two. Theo stops mid jabber and races towards you. His face bright with enthusiasm. He restarts his jabbering as he skids to a stop in front of you. Kyungsoo follows at a milder pace. You glance from your son to him. “I take it you know what he’s saying.” You joke as you shift a bag further up your hip and blow at the stray strand again.

“Only because I was there when it happened.” He reaches forward and brushes the strand behind your ear. His fingertips graze your temple as he does. A shiver races down your spine, and you blame it on the cool autumn breeze. Taking one of the bags from you, he starts down the sidewalk to your apartment.

“I was telling you about the parent teacher conference...which you missed.” Theo huffs as he stretches his legs to match his father’s gait. You walk beside him, sandwiching the boy between you and Kyungsoo.

“I do want to hear all about that, but first what’s this I hear about a pony?” You stare down at him, and he stares at his shoes, his shoulders rising to cover his ears. “Theo?”

“The last time I was with grandpa I just said I would like a pony. I didn’t mean he had to buy me one.” He darts his gaze to you, then to his dad. Kyungsoo keeps a straight face as he stares ahead, so your son turns back to you.

You shake your head, and he smiles a toothless grin. He had lost another tooth a week ago and took every opportunity to show off the incoming big boy tooth. “What have I told you about your grandfather?”

He sighs, his tiny frame collapsing with the loss of breath, but he manages to roll his head back and stares up at the night sky. “Just because Grandpa has all the money doesn’t mean I should ask him for everything.”

“Because?”

“Because things do not make me happy.” His conviction is lacking, but you nod, encouraging him on. “And I have everything I need.”

“That’s right.” You three stop in front of the entrance to your apartment building. “Now, take that grocery bag from your father and thank him for all his help today.” His body droops even further, but he holds out his arms.

Kyungsoo clutches the bag tighter to him. “I can carry it up.”

“That’s okay. You’ve done enough.” The words slip out before you can comprehend their double meaning. Kyungsoo’s face turns to stone. “I’m sure you have work waiting for you.” You try to salvage the situation. “And Theo is more than capable of carrying groceries.”

He nods. A forced smile pushes against his cheeks, but he drops to his knees to pull Theo into a one-armed hug before handing him the bag. When he stands, you two stare at each other. His fingers twitch, ready to reach out for you. And he could. It would be normal, natural, but you remain rooted to the concrete. In the end, he waves, an awkward gesture, and is gone.

Even after seven years, you are still trying to figure out your relationship with Kyungsoo. When you had selected sperm for insemination, you had never expected to meet the donor or have any form of relationship with him. Fate is funny though. Before you had even given birth to Theo, Kyungsoo entered your life. He was there when Theo was born, and within that first month stepped into the role of co-parent. He watched him take his first steps, have his first birthday, go off to his first day of school. But he has also stood beside you when you quit your job, when you needed a plus-one to social functions, when your dad had his heart attack. Co-parent no longer seems to fit him, but nothing else does.

“I think my teacher likes Dad.” Theo pulls you back to the present as you reach your front door.

You unlock the door and hold it open for him, sneaking through with the groceries before it closes on you. “Why do you say that?”

“Because she kept going like this while we were talking.” He faces you and flutters his eyelashes. “And she laughed at everything he said, and you said that if a girl does those things it means she likes you.”

You nod along, the conversation fresh in your memory. He had come home in a state last week with many questions about girls. You had answered as many of them as you could and told him some would have to wait until he was older.

Setting the grocery bags on the counter, you start to pull things out and hand Theo the cold food for him to put away in the fridge. “Do you think your dad liked her back?” The question surprises you.

Theo shakes his head. “No. He kept doing this:” he clears his throat, loudly and pointedly, “anytime she asked him a question that wasn’t about me.”

You smother a snort and mask any sound which may have escaped with the folding of the bags. “That sounds like your dad.” The image of Kyungsoo in a too small desk forcing a starry-eyed woman back on topic threatens to unleash another snort.

“Mom, do you like Dad?” You choke on air as you face Theo. He stares at you all innocence.

“Of course, I like your dad. He’s a good dad.” You grab a handful of groceries and head for the pantry before he can ask a follow up question. “Now tell me what you talked about with your teacher and slower this time.”

He huffs but answers. “She said I should join a sports club because it would be good for my social development.” His voice goes high and airy with the last words, and you know he is quoting her verbatim. 

“What did your dad say?” You ask as you grab the remaining food and head back to the pantry. 

“He agreed with my teacher, and she gave him a list of the clubs.” Theo closes the fridge and climbs up on one of the counter’s stools. 

“Do you have the list?” He shakes his head, and you make a mental note to ask Kyungsoo for a copy. “Do you want to join one of the clubs?” He nods. “Which one?”

“Soccer.”

You change the mental note to ask Kyungsoo what you will need to do to sign him up and who to contact about schedules and equipment. “That sounds fun. Now, you’ve still got an hour of homework time before bed.” He groans, but you pat him on the butt, shooing him off to his room.

“Mom, where are my cleats?”

“In your closet on the bottom shelf.” You hear the clatter of toppling boxes, followed by thuds which you assume are shoes being thrown aside. Someone will have a room to clean after their game. You make the mental note as you finish up the snack pack: almonds, grapes, and dark chocolate, a perfect pick me up during half time.

“Theo, are you ready?” You ask as you dump ice on the top of the cooler bag and zip it up. After two more crashes, your son appears in the kitchen, dressed in his full kit including his cleats. “What have I told you about wearing your cleats in the house?”

“Mom!” He whines, his shoulders dropping in exasperation. He, thankfully, refrains from stomping his foot.

“Don’t ‘mom’ me. Do you see those scuffs on the floor?” He twists his torso to glance at the living room floor he nonchalantly raced through. Thin white lines scar the dark wood. He faces you again and offers a grimace in apology. “Take them off, put them in your bag, and wear your sneakers until we get to the field.”

He opens his mouth, ready to protest, but one look from you silences him. He crouches down and begins to unlace his cleats. “Is dad almost here?” Kyungsoo had offered to pick you and Theo up, saving you from a forty-five-minute bus ride. 

“Yes,” you grab your phone from the counter to double check his last text. “By the time you finish what I told you to do, he will be here.” Tucking the phone in your back pocket, you grab your purse.

“Which car is he bringing?” Theo glances up at you, cleats in hand. His eyes shine with expectation. 

“Why does that matter?” You cross your arms and arch a brow.

He has the decency to look sheepish. “I was just wondering.”

“And I was just wondering how long it’s going to take you to put on your sneakers.” He darts off and you shake your head. 

Theo reappears wearing his sneakers and with his athletic bag slung over his shoulder. You do a final check of the apartment before grabbing the cooler bag and heading down to the parking garage where you know Kyungsoo will be waiting. 

He is waiting by the elevator doors. The cooler bag is off your shoulder before you even start your greeting, not that you have a chance to give one. Theo is off, talking a mile a minute, as soon as he sees his dad. Kyungsoo smiles and nods along to the excited chatter. He offers you a smile, the only greeting he can manage with Theo’s barrage. You return the greeting as you follow him to his car which to Theo’s delight is the Range Rover. 

“Soobin is going to be so jealous!” He comments as he climbs in.

“One of his teammates.” You answer Kyungsoo’s furrowed brow. “Apparently, he and Theo have a bit of rivalry about whose dad is better.”

“Mine is. Soobin is stupid.”

“Theo!” You scold. Kyungsoo closes the door, saving him from your reprimand. You glare at him, but he is already walking to the back to place the cooler in the trunk. “Boys.” You sigh as you climb into the car. 

Theo’s team wins. While neither of the goals was his, he did have an assist. Soobin did score a goal, and the brewing foul mood was visible to both you and Kyungsoo which was why you both enthusiastically celebrated his skills when he trudged over after the game. Kyungsoo picked him up, a feat which will become impossible in the coming years, and promised dinner at his favorite restaurant.

The three of you sit around a table laden with food. Kyungsoo had also promised him he could have anything he wanted off the menu, and Theo, the growing boy that he is, ordered more than he could consume in five dinners. You throw a look at Kyungsoo as the waiter places the last dish on the table, but he shrugs and helps Theo load food onto his plate. You grab a plate of your own and begin to fill it more modestly. 

“Has work calmed down at all?” Kyungsoo asks as Theo’s mouth is too full to continue talking.

You shake your head. “Unfortunately, not. I have a pile of folders on my desk waiting for me on Monday, and I’m sure more folders will be added to it before Monday even arrives. Mr. Park said he would hire an assistant for me, but I have yet to hear of any interviews, though I’ve reminded him.” You pause, biting on your fork as you think. “Three times now. I’m ready to send him a very nasty email depending on how bad Monday is.”

“I do know the CEO of your company.” Kyungsoo suggests as he leans across the table to grab a side dish. “We’ve attended social functions together.”

“Don’t you dare.” You wag your fork at him. “I am more than capable of handling Mr. Park. Besides, he’s not that bad, and I wouldn’t want him peeing his pants after a phone call from the CEO.”

“You still pee your pants as a grown up?” Theo joins the conversation, horror contorting his features. He had to wear pull-ups to bed until he was four. When he went a whole week without wetting the bed, Kyungsoo had taken you two on a weekend trip to the beach. 

“Some people do, especially if you get a call from your boss’s boss’s boss.” You side eye Kyungsoo. He smothers a smile. “You don’t have anything to worry about though. You dad would never let that happen to you.”

“Of course not, because dad is going to be my boss.” Confidence brims from his eyes as he inhales another mouthful. You glance at Kyungsoo who shakes his head. 

“Theo, where did you hear that?” He asks.

“Grandpa.” Though with all the food in his mouth, it sounds more like “fampfa”. He swallows and continues. “He said that when I grow-up I’m going to work at the company and when dad is done working that I’m going to have his job.”

“Do you want to work at my company?” Kyungsoo’s question eases the chokehold that you have on your fork, and you reach for your glass of water as you remind yourself to remain calm. 

Kyungsoo put an end to his family’s machinations to steal your son long before Theo was born.

Theo’s lips purse, and he rocks his head from side to side before shaking it firmly. “I don’t think so. Your work is boring. I want to have a fun job.” Kyungsoo snorts. The uncharacteristic gesture pulls a laugh from you. Within moments, the table is full of laughter.

The combination of the game, a full meal, and the gentle hum of the car ride puts Theo to sleep before you reach home. Kyungsoo carries him up to the apartment for you. While you know you should wake him to shower and change, his face, soft with sleep, convinces you to let Kyungsoo place him in his bed. You need to wash the sheets anyway.

Kyungsoo returns to the kitchen as you are pulling a bottle of wine from the hiding place in the pantry. “A nightcap?” He asks, stopping at the counter. 

“I need a drink.” You go to the cabinet and pull out two glass. “Would you like some?” He nods, and you fill both, yours a little more generously than his.

He cups the glass, swirling the liquid, as you take a large gulp of yours. “Is this about my father?” He watches the dark liquid coat the edges of the glass.

You lean back against the counter next to him and nod. “I’m grateful that Theo has a relationship with his grandfather, but I need him to realize that Theo is not his heir and that he can’t just buy him whatever he wants. At the same time though, I wonder if I am a bad mom because I’m stopping someone from buying him a pony.”

“You’re not a bad mom. Theo doesn’t need a pony. If he was going to pursue Equestrian Sports, maybe.” He shrugs, smiling at you. “But I think he is happy with soccer.”

You snort, taking another sip of your wine. “Did you do Equestrian Sports when you were his age?”

“No, but I did have a horse.” You raise a brow. “I barely rode him. There wasn’t time. My father was training me to be his heir.”

“And that’s exactly what I don’t want for Theo.” You glance at Kyungsoo and find that you have slid closer to him. The wine warms your body, and you find your attention drawn to his lips as he speaks.

“I know. I’ll talk with my father.”  His voice is low and husky. His lips vibrating with the words. Wine coats them, making them shine in the dim light. Perhaps, you should have turned on more lights than the lamp in the living room. Theo’s question comes back to you. Do you like Kyungsoo? “Y/N?”

You shake your head, clearing the alcohol from your thoughts. A stray hair falls into your face. “Sorry. Thank you.” You try to focus, your hand going to brush the hair out of your eye. 

Kyungsoo’s hand reaches it first. He tucks it behind your ear. His hand lingers on your cheek. His fingertips light on your skin. “Sorry.” He whispers. Your cheek grows cold as he reclaims his glass and swallows a gulp. “I should call a driver. This wine is hitting harder than I expected.”

“Or,” the word slips out, and you blame the wine for loosening your lips. “You could stay the night. The couch pulls out, and I have a spare set of your clothes.” You keep your gaze fixed on the living room lamp. “It’s been a bit since we’ve got to enjoy one of your breakfasts.” You add on when the silence stretches between you.

“I see. You just want me for my body.” He breaks the tension.

You snort. The wine in your glass sloshing and threatening to spill out. “If that’s what you want to think then sure.” 

He takes the glass from you and sets it on the counter next to his. You’ve both had enough wine for tonight. “Do you have stuff for breakfast tomorrow?”

“My fridge is stocked with every healthy thing imaginable.”

“Healthy.” He scrunches up his nose. His glasses fall down the bridge when he relaxes it, and you fight the urge to take them off.

“Is that a yes or no?” You speak around the lump in your throat.

He thinks. The moments tick by as you berate yourself for asking something too stupid and risqué. Kyungsoo is Theo’s dad.  No matter how blurred the line between you two grows that line will always be as crisp as a fresh stroke on paper, and you should be avoiding anything that could complicate that relationship.

“Yes.” You blink at Kyungsoo and wonder if hope has spread a filter over your ears. “Y/N?”

“Awesome.” You answer, assured that you heard correctly. “I’ll go get the clothes.” You start towards your bedroom but throw over your shoulder. “Since it is still early, but only if you’re up for it, there is this new movie on Netflix that I’ve been wanting to watch.”

“So, Netflix and chill?”

Stuttering to a halt, you whip your head around. He smiles at you all innocence. “You’re ridiculous.” He shrugs. With a shake of your head, you march into your room, his laughter trailing after you.

[haltandcatchfiretothemax]

FEMSLASH FEBRUARY 2020 #2: In which Cameron and Donna share another meal

[TW: food, eating, alcohol mention]

(CONTINUED FROM YESTERDAY)

Around 4pm, Cameron decides that she’s curious about Donna’s ‘honey almond bar things’. She heads back to Donna’s kitchen (it is still ‘Donna’s kitchen’ to her, it will be a little while before Cameron thinks of it as ‘her’ or ‘my’ oven just ‘the’ kitchen), and starts poking around in the pantry. She finds the box of honey almond bars, but then she starts looking at what else is in there. She pulls out a bag of lentils, a nearly expired can of beets, an unopened jar of local honey, and the balsamic vinegar, which Donna uses regularly to dress her famous salad. She looks at everything on the counter, and then she grabs two almond bars and stuffs them in her pocket, and grabs a bottle of water from the refrigerator, and finally heads up to the room above the garage.

“Donnaaa…” she climbs the stairs. “I needed a break from thinking about my new game idea, so I figured you probably need a break too.” She gets to the top of the stairs, and finds Donna sitting cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by about half has many boxes as she started with, and a bunch of flattened boxes sitting in the back corner of the room. Cameron pulls one of the bars out of her pocket, and bends down slightly to offer it to Donna.

Donna frowns up at her. “My leg fell asleep! I’ve been trying to get up for ten minutes!” When Cameron does nothing in response other than making that deer-in-headlights face she makes so often, Donna cries, “Help me? Please?!”

Cameron literally drops everything to crouch down and carefully hook her arms under Donna’s, and pull her up off the floor. Donna keeps all of her weight on her right leg, and leans against Cameron to keep her balance. As soon as she’s situated, Cameron says, “Here, maybe this will help,” and reaches down and massages Donna’s left thigh. 

“Oh, it’s definitely helping,” Donna arches an eyebrow.

“So I guess your dirty sense of humor didn’t fall asleep, then?”

“No. But it is really helping, thank you,” Donna says. 

When the tingling is mostly gone, Donna stands on her own again, she lets go of Cameron, pulls her leg up to her chest, and then stretches and shakes it out. Melodramatically, she asks, “Is this middle age? Thinking, ‘Guess I should have warmed up before I decided to sit down and unpack a box’?”

Trying not to laugh, Cameron sits down next to the nearly forgotten honey almond bar and bottle of water, and offers them up to Donna again. 

“Aw, thank you,” Donna says again, taking the almond bar. As they unwrap their snacks, Donna asks, “How’s your afternoon going? What are you up to, other than assisting your aging ‘business partner’?”

Cameron shrugs up at her, “I’m mostly just sitting around and thinking a lot?”

Donna nods, shifting her weight back and forth from one foot to the other. “A crucial part of the creative process.”

“Are you sure you don’t want some help?” Cameron looks around the room. “Or maybe that was a sign that you’ve done enough sorting for the day?”

“I’m fine,” Donna insists, opening up her bottle of water, and taking a long sip. “I can work for a couple more hours, until it gets dark. I’ve already got a few boxes ready to bring down, so maybe I’ll start doing that in a bit.”

“Okay,” Cameron sighs. “But if I don’t hear from you by 6, I’m sending up a search party. And by search party, I mean, me, I’ll check on you.”

Donna sits down between Cameron and her remaining boxes, and then leans over and kisses Cameron’s cheek. “The perfect housemate.”

Cameron kisses her back, “I try,” and gets up, dusts off her pants.

Back in the house, Cameron paces around the kitchen for a minute, and then she checks the refrigerator, and the racks where Donna keeps her onions, garlic, and potatoes. Certain that she remembers Haley and Vanessa making something with lentils, onions, and potatoes, Cameron goes into the master bath to shower and wash her hair. She uses Donna’s fancy moisturizer, gets dressed, and then she marches back down to the kitchen, and starts looking for Haley’s hand-written recipe notecards, which she finds in a plastic box near the sink. She finds the recipe she’s thinking of, preheats the oven to 400 degrees, ties on Donna’s apron, and gets to work.

An hour later, Donna passes through the kitchen as she lugs a box of reference books over to her desk. There are greens draining in the sink, a bowl of beets marinating on the counter, a pot simmering on the stove, and something fragrant roasting in the oven. “I was gonna ask if you wanted to get some take out!”

“Well, you might still want to after you taste this,” Cameron replies.

Setting the box down next to her computer, Donna says, “I’m sure it will be fine. I have a few more boxes to grab, I’ll be right back, and then maybe I can help.”

Twenty minutes later, Donna is in the kitchen again, and she sees that table is set, with two more of Donna’s nice plates, her silver candlesticks, the good flatware, two champagne flutes, Donna’s rarely used champagne bucket, and a vase of wildflowers. “I feel a little underdressed,” she pouts. 

“I think you have time for a shower,” Cameron says. “Also, you maybe kind of need it.” 

Donna looks down at her shirt and jeans, which are covered in dusty handprints and stripes of grime. “That sounds like a good call, I’ll be back in a minute.”

When Donna returns twenty minutes later in her favorite sweater and most expensive pair of mom jeans, Cameron is at the dining room table, setting down a large bowl. Donna joins her there, and asks, “Can I sit? Is it ready? Or is there something I can help with?”

Pulling out the chair at the head of the table for her, Cameron says, “No, everything is ready, you can relax!”

“Oh, well thank you,” Donna grins, taking her seat. 

Cameron carefully lights the candles, and then she grabs the mini bottle of champagne from the bucket, opens it without incident, and pours a glass for Donna. Donna realizes that Cameron is still wearing her apron, but rather than say anything about it, she accepts her glass when Cameron hands it to her. 

After she pours her own glass, Cameron finally sits down, and Donna asks, “So, what are we toasting?”

“Us, I guess?” Cameron shrugs lightly. She holds out her glass and says, “I finally got my sh*t together and moved in with you. Your house is literally my house, even it doesn’t quite feel like it yet.”

Warmly, Donna holds up her glass and says, “Yes, my house is your house.” They clink glasses, drink, and then dig into their dinner.

“Is it okay?” Cameron frets. “I promise I won’t be offended if you decide to order a pizza, or something.”

Mouth still half full, Donna says, “It’s great! It’s got goat cheese and balsamic vinegar, those are my favorite things!” Then, after swallowing her food down, she says, “Also you might not be offended but you’d be devastated if I tasted this and ordered a pizza.” Mildly scandalized, Donna promises her, “I would never, Cameron.” Somehow managing to make it look graceful, Donna then goes back to enthusiastically shoveling her food into her mouth.

Cameron gazes warmly at her, and sighs contentedly. “I’m glad you like it.”

[stressedspidergirlsfandomblog]

Pt17

(Conversations around consent, sexual activity, and descriptions of torture and attempted suicide. I will put a little - before a paragraph with torture/assault and another - when its over. May or may not also include implied consensual activity. We'll see where this goes.)

Curtis wakes up to soft little regular whimper-moans from behind him. Unsure if his lover is dreaming of torture, or if it's a happy kind of dream, he shifts back a bit, pressing into Takashi to check. Smiling a little in relief it's definitely not torture. Sighing a little, he's awake now. And hungry. They didn't eat dinner last night. They'd gone to bed. Worth the missed meal in Curtis' opinion. However, he's ravenous.

Digging through the cupboards he finds oatmeal, spices, and dried fruit. Surprised to find so many seasonings in the cabinets of a man who rarely cooks, Curtis wonders if it's a holdover from living with Adam. Especially considering Takashi doesn't even buy himself proper self grooming products. Probably just habit to keep the spices around.

The fridge has a few flavors of almond milk. Some non dairy creamers, and not much else in it. Overall the food choices are somewhat depressing. There's more in the freezer, thankfully. Frozen meat, vegetables, and fruit. Shaking his head a little, he sighs.

But another look through the pantry shows plenty of rice, beans, potatoes...cereal. He's feeding himself.

Finding a flat pan, he starts some of the last of the bacon. Whisks some eggs in a bowl. And adds vanilla almond milk to the oatmeal with cinnamon, nutmeg, and fruit. It can sit until Takashi wakes up.

Curtis likes the simple ritual of preparing food. He doesn't mind doing this. Although once they live together he figures if he cooks, Takashi can do the shopping. He usually already does the cleaning up.

Some time later he hears a weird noise somewhere between "blech" and "ugh" accompanied by soft but vehement cursing.

"You okay?" Curtis calls when the swearing doesn't stop but he hears water running. "Did your dream not have a happy ending?" He asks, heading into the bedroom.

"If you can call it that," Shiro snaps back, voice cracking.

Takashi is naked from the waist down and he throws the washcloth into the sink as Curtis comes in. His face is red and his eyes are full of tears.

"What's wrong? You okay?"

"I don't know."

"What happened?" He gently thumbs a tear off Takashi's cheek.

"I don't know. My body never did this. I was, I was finally feeling like I was in my own skin and then this happens!"

"What, as a teen you didn't get wet dreams? God you were lucky." Stroking back Takashi's hair he gently kisses his cheek.

"I didn't even know this was possible," he protests.

"It is," Curtis assures him. "It happens. Not super common, I don't think. But yeah. It's normal."

"Not for me," Shiro protests. "Maybe the clone?"

"You had his memories and he thought he was you, right? Do you remember that happening?"

"No."

"This makes sense to me, love, I'm sorry. It's been years, right? And you have been so stressed, and so anxious, and so sick... You got a little last night... And your body wants more. Is that so awful? Years and years without any.... What'd you dream about anyway?"

Shiro turns red again, scar livid across his face. "You." He swallows. "Us."

"Oh yeah? You wanna tell me what we did that rocked your world so hard it made you come in your sleep?"

Ducking his head down, the tips of his ears are red, too. His silvery hair just makes the blush look even brighter.

"Is it embarrassing?" Curtis asks gently. "Or are you just shy about this stuff?"

"I never really talked about it with anyone. My family was.... Traditional. It was really hard to get used to the idea I liked guys at all. Adam... Had to be patient for a long time. I came out because of him. I admitted to myself... Who I was. I get to be with you because of that," he says softly. "But ... I'm not as... Blase about it as you."

"Am I allowed to ask you about it? Or tease you if it's just us? Will you be okay talking about stuff? 'Cause I'm... I'm not comfortable sleeping with you until we hash out do's and dont's." He meets Takashi's eyes. "I can wait. It's no rush. Nothing like that."

"We can talk about it," Shiro mumbles, leaning into Curtis. "I was dreaming about...us. You were um, your mouth...I think that time we talked about it has been in the back of my head this whole time."

Curtis smiles and kisses his temple. "The real thing will be a lot better," he promises. "Put some pants on, breakfast is almost ready." He slips away to make sure nothing's burning and to heat the oatmeal mix.

Shiro comes out in different sweats, still embarrassed. Still he's done worse in front of Curtis. Such as thrown up on himself in his sleep back on the Atlas. One of the first nights Curtis started checking on him. He hadn't even really woken up, either. Curtis had had to help him clean up. Change the sheets. He'd brought tea to help with his stomach. And never said a word to anyone about it. Not once.

They eat relatively quietly, seated at the counter with their knees touching.

"What time is it anyway?" Curtis mumbles, mostly to himself. Glancing at his watch he blinks. "We woke up early."

"Hm?"

"Its 0600. I usually get up closer to 0700. Guess I have time to lie around." He smiles a little.

"What'd'ya want me to pick up at the store?" Shiro mumbles. Already trying to decide on what kind of grooming products he needs. He knows most of Curtis' favorite snacks already. The man has a sweet tooth.

"Something not frozen or dried...how long am I staying?"

Turning red he shrugs. "We haven't really had a chance to talk and I don't want to do that before work if that's okay."

"Fine by me," Curtis agrees.

Done with his food he hops up, taking the now empty dishes and heading to the sink. He cleans up automatically, glad to have something to do. For all it's a hair harder with just one hand. He has to set the dish down to swab it out. Then he loads them into the dishwasher.

Curtis contentedly watches him move around the kitchen. They've only been together a few months as a couple now. But this feels right. He loves this man. Scars and all. And he knows Takashi feels the same way. After all he's been through, it's nice to let himself again. It's nice to be loved. It's nice to know the person he's letting himself be with is worthy of it. After his partner had died, Curtis had had a string of one offs and bad decisions. And he'd treated them and himself like trash.

One of the absolute best things about Takashi is that he makes Curtis feel so loved. So wanted. So incredibly safe and special and like he matters more than anything else in the world. Takashi has this special way of focusing on him that makes him feel like he's the only other person in the world.

"If I go in early I can leave early," Curtis says, and Takashi nods a little. "Gives us more time tonight?"

"Yeah. Sounds good." He smiles a little.

It seems a little forced but they've been through a lot. "Hey how's your back feeling?"

Blinking in surprise, he stretches a little, his hand on the small of his back. "Good."

"Lemme feel," Curtis smiles. When Takashi comes around the counter and leans over to present as much of his back as possible to his partner.

"Hey look, still not purple," Curtis teases, running his fingertips up and down Takashi's back. He laughs when Takashi arches under his touch, just like a cat. "I love you so much," he says affectionately.

"I love you, too. Please don't stop," he adds.

"Well. I will have to eventually. I can't be late." But all the same he scratches up and down his partner's back. He enjoys the way Takashi shifts under his hand. Deciding that both hands might be best in this situation he shifts on the stool to make it easier to give scratches.

Eventually it's time to go. They kiss goodbye and head out together, but part ways outside the building.

Shiro sends Keith a message.

Stuck going to the store. You need anything?

0645

Probably should grab some basics. Meet you at the store?

0647

Sounds good. No plants.

0648

Mom says you should bring 'your mate' a gift. Yes plants. Apparently. Or the skulls of your enemies. But that seems excessive.

0650

That would not match his decor, no.

0650

See you in 10.

0651

Keith finds Shiro in the personal grooming section of the store.

He looks up when he notices the Red Paladin. "Curtis also has a problem with my taste in body wash."

"I see."

"Problem is I have no idea what to pick," Shiro shrugs.

Keith peers over in the basket. It looks like Shiro has managed to pick up fruit, vegetables, and some kind of meat in the time it took him to wait for a train to pass. "Sorry I'm late, by the way."

"Stuck at the tracks?"

"Yeah. Slowest train I've ever seen. Couldn't have been going much over 80."

"Disappointing."

"Seems like you're mostly done."

"Still need snacks. And candy of some kind. Curtis is an addict."

"Where's your protein crap you always used to get?"

"I always hated it. And medical says I'm healthy now... So. I didn't buy any."

Keith looks over at Shiro and notices some things that disturb him. For one, every time he reaches out to maybe pick a bottle, there's some kind of tremor in his hand. Two, he's sweating and the store is chilly. Three, he's a little flushed. Four, his eyes seem glassy. Getting in closer, he lightly squeezes Shiro's shoulder and hides his expression. Shirt is damp. He's been distressed for a while.

"What about pine? You always had some weird thing for forest scented crap."

"No, that was Adam. I was the one who liked spearmint and wintergreen."

"So why did you always smell like-.... ? Ah."

Shiro turns red. "I know Curtis likes cinnamon. But I don't see that here."

"There's stuff that's kinda minty," Keith points out. "You can buy whatever you want." Personally he thinks having to change your scent to please your partner is ridiculous. Probably why he's not much for dating. "See this one?" He cracks the lid to sniff and then hands it over, watching Shiro's hand like a hawk.

The shaking is still there. He's still beading sweat around his hairline and his hair is starting to stick to his face.

"That's kind of the problem," Shiro mutters, sniffing the bottle. It smells nice. Shampoo. Okay. So now just body wash. Maybe something for dry skin? He's been itchy lately and Curtis is probably right. He's probably drying his skin out. He can take care of himself a little better for Curtis. "Is there matching body wash?" He asks, trying to read labels without giving away the entire aisle is swimming. He's so stressed out. Which is how he ended up just grabbing a random bottle and bailing the first time around.

Keith looks at him and back at the shelf quizzically before picking it up from right in front of Shiro and handing it to him. "Says ultra cleansing. Isn't that code for: will dry your skin out?"

"Oh. Maybe I should pick something else."

Unsure of what to make of this, he shrugs. "You could just get the same brand you used to, and pick a different scent."

Shiro shifts uncomfortably. "I can't remember what it was," he admits. "I'm missing a lot here and there," he tugs absently on his bangs. Remembering how his skull had been cracked open.

"It's this stuff in the red bottles. It's got some stupid names, though." He tries to keep his expression neutral. He knew Shiro had issues remembering everything that happened while he was enslaved as a gladiator. He had no idea Shiro had also lost any time before then.

"Whatever's there is fine."

"Maybe Lance would be more helpful," Keith suggests. Then they both look at each other and laugh. "Okay so definitely not. But hey there's only four options, so."

They test out each bottle, Shiro hates the first. Keith the second. The third and fourth take a while to decide between. Shiro just picks up the matching shampoo and dumps it in.

"Do you think I need more clothes?" He asks hesitantly.

Keith kind of stares. "Judging by your apartment? Probably." Watching Shiro looking over at something on the other end of the men's care aisle, he realizes he doesn't want to help shop for the next thing. "What kind of candy? I'll grab that while you finish up here."

Realizing Keith figured it out, he turns red. "Uh. He'll eat pretty much anything that isn't black licorice. But he's kinda partial to anything sour and then chocolate with almonds or peanuts."

"Got it."

"Thanks." Shiro wanders down to the other end of the men's aisle. There's an overwhelming amount of things and he's realizing he's not sure if Curtis has preferences. And his personal comm is off at work. And Shiro isn't going to call him about condom brands on a Garrison line. They're all recorded. While he's not sure if it will be days, weeks, or months until they need any supplies he'd rather have them on hand.

Thinking about what he's used before, he doesn't see any familiar packaging and the aisle blurs in and out of his vision for a minute. There, he grabs a few things. He's not into anything all that interesting, and looking at some of the grocery-store approved toys makes him feel uncomfortable. A few things look like something the Galra would have found a way to weaponize and use and while he's sure before all this he would have been game... Now he isn't. He realizes he doesn't even really want Curtis on top of him, either. Or at least, not inside him.

-

He can still feel the blood running down the inside of his thighs. Sometimes just dripping steadily down without touching his body at all. They'd ripped him open in a new way. Trying to find some other way to torture and scare him. He has no idea how they guessed that, or if it was half accidental. They hadn't realized that human joints really weren't that flexible when they broke his elbow. Just testing his limits.

Shuddering he's terrified of the scarring ripping open again. Of just anything tearing into him.

Trying to imagine if he could go down on Curtis his throat tightens and he swallows hard against a gag. What if it feels like the feeding tube they'd forced down his throat? He'd been refusing to eat after. Had tried to hide the bleeding. When it stopped he'd been so depressed he'd given up hope and reopened the wound. Tore skin. Hadn't cared. He'd wanted to bleed to death. They'd stapled the wound shut, drugged him with a paralytic that did nothing about the fact he couldn't sleep, shoved a tube down his throat, and chained him spread eagle so he couldn't move so much as an inch and inflict more damage.

-

Keith finally can't spend more time in candy and goes back to find Shiro. He's worried. He recognizes the stricken look he sees and gently takes Shiro's hand and pulls him away. "You can't get pregnant anyway, you don't need those."

Blinking and coming to, "school really failed you, didn't it?" He asks absently.

"You're cleared of any and all diseases and so's he. Nothing he can give you or vice versa."

"Maybe he doesn't like to swallow," Shiro says conversationally, still shaky. He knows Keith hates when he talks bluntly about this kind of stuff. So it'll stop the conversation in its tracks.

Keith makes a face. "Let's go find you a shirt that isn't black or grey?" He suggests.

"I look good in those colors."

"Yeah Shiro everyone does. What colors does Curtis like?"

Everything, Shiro wants to say. Curtis is full of life and color in spite of everything. "Purple. Galaxy purple like in those hubble telescope photos..." He says softly, thinking of the prints he's seen in Curtis' apartment. "Dark blue..." His bedroom.

"Great. There you go."

"Black and grey used to bring out my eyes..." Shiro teases, fluttering his eyelashes and trying to recover from earlier.

"And match your hair." Keith just shrugs and smiles blandly.

They wander over to the clothing section and browse. Shiro ends up with a simple deep purple henley, a dark navy vneck sweater, and Keith convinces him to try a maroon vneck tee and deep green henley, too. "Add some color old man."

They drop the groceries off, Shiro throws the meat and some seasoning into the crock pot. He can't bake to save his life but he can dump things in a pot and walk away. While he's busy Keith discovers Shiro's battered running shoes. After lecturing the other man about his knees and feet taking unnecessary damage he forces Shiro back out to get new shoes.

Then he drags him to get some nicer towels, a second set of sheets, and some actual jeans, and some nice button ups so Shiro can dress up a little without going full uniform. Shiro only has 2 pairs of black pants and Keith feels odd realizing what they're doing. Maybe he he should have let Curtis do this. But Shiro started on his own. Keith just helped him finish. And made sure he had more than just the absolute bare minimum cheapest crap he could pick in two seconds.

When they get back Keith helps him load all the fabric into the wash so it'll be ready before Curtis gets back. He has a feeling the other man will appreciate all the changes. Looking at the clock he's surprised its only a little after 1400 hours.

He notices Shiro never really stops shaking, and he seems uncomfortable the whole time. Not unwilling just not himself, either. "Do you remember forcing me to pick out clothes?" He asks suddenly.

"Yeah you were a real shithead."

"Thanks for not returning the favor."

"Wouldn't know how to be that obnoxious even if I tried," Shiro smiles.

"So magnanimous."

Shiro shakes his head a little. He flops tiredly onto the couch unsure what to make of all of it.

Keith lets Shiro sleep, fear mounting in his chest cavity. He switches the laundry into the dryer. He's not sure what to do to help Shiro. But at least the man has food. Nice sheets, soft towels. New, clean clothes. The food smells good, and Keith finds himself puttering around looking for things to do, because he's afraid to leave Shiro alone.

Eventually he settles on the couch, putting a hand on Shiro's chest to feel his heartbeat. It seems steady. Normal. Healthy. But the tremors, the sweating, the indecision... It's all so concerning.

Eventually the dryer dings softly. Keith gets up and finds himself remaking the bed, folding clothes and more or less pacing around again. Somewhat amused he's the one taking care of Shiro for a change, he settles back down on the couch when the housekeeping is done, watching him sleep.

He dozes off eventually, and wakes up to the door sliding open.

Curtis smiles as Keith hastily exits, and sniffs the air appreciatively.

Kneeling down by the couch he presses a gentle kiss on Takashi's forehead. "Hey handsome," he smiles gently. "Wake up, love."

Takashi blinks awake, and smiles when he sees Curtis. Curtis gently strokes his cheek and kisses him.

"You hungry?" He asks gently. "Food smells good, what is it?"

"Brisket, and I have veggie salad in the fridge. Just needs dressing."

"Sounds good to me, you ready?"

"Yeah. Keith ran me ragged."

"I can see that. Once we eat do you just wanna go back to bed?"

"No, we should talk."

"Okay," Curtis agrees. Kissing his forehead again he stands up. Watches Takashi shift an arm under himself and sit up, and ease his body off the couch. He seems like he's moving easier. Less stiff.

Takashi quietly gets out plates and silverware, still half asleep. Pulling the salad out he has 2 choices for dressing and lets Curtis pick. Dumping food onto his plate, he settles at the counter and waits for Curtis to do the same.

When he's done serving himself, he unbuttons his uniform, and settles the jacket across the back of his chair. "Thanks for dinner."

"Of course," Takashi smiles back. They bump knees as they eat. He's happy to eat quietly, the hustle and bustle of running errands and dealing with people has him drained. The nap helps but just sitting there with his leg against Curtis' makes him feel better. That and not being required to talk around the food.

Half wondering if they should have talked first, in case he made himself sick, he breathes out a sigh through his nose.

"You okay?"

"Yeah. I didn't mean to wear myself out so badly, though. Sorry."

Curtis nudges his leg, "it's fine."

When he finishes he rinses off his dishes and loads them.

"You cooked, I would have cleaned up."

"You do most of the hard work in our relationship, I think," Shiro smiles. "I can handle some dishes."

Curtis frowns a bit, but decides that can be part of their conversation later. He's absolutely not going to let that slide. Their needs just look different. He smiles when Takashi pulls out a sack of candy. And then laughs when he realizes how full it is. "Trying to fatten me up?"

"I just... There'll always be some here for you."

Holding out his hand he takes Takashi's gently as he comes around the counter and tugs him in close, between his legs. Tipping his face up they kiss for a few moments. Soft and gentle. They pull away and smile. Takashi is a little pink and Curtis smiles. Seems like everything works fine now.

[cucinacarmela-blog]

Our Favorite Breakfast Cereals | Serious Eats

New Post has been published on https://cucinacarmela.com/our-favorite-breakfast-cereals-serious-eats/

Our Favorite Breakfast Cereals | Serious Eats

amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "carmela-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Shop Related Products"; amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "cooking"; amzn_assoc_default_category = "Kitchen"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "51fe4d035c7af8dc5928e6f5e5b79c4e"; amzn_assoc_default_browse_node = "284507"; amzn_assoc_rows = "4"; amzn_assoc_design = "text_links";

[Photograph: Vicky Wasik]

More

Breakfast

Everything you need to make the most important meal of the day delicious.

There’s nothing inherently child-specific about a bowl of cold toasted grains soaked in milk, yet breakfast cereal seems to be inextricably associated with kids in the American imagination. Sure, it helps that most boxed cereals you’ll finding lining your supermarket aisles today come liberally infused with sugar (quite a turnabout for a food category that started with Seventh-Day Adventist health nuts, who would probably be pretty horrified if they could get a glimpse of the industry today), but there are other reasons.

You could begin, for instance, with the unchallenging flavors of corn and wheat combined with milk, making cereal an easy sell for the harried parents, usually moms, raising fussy eaters, who saw themselves reflected in generations of harried parents raising fussy eaters on TV. There’s the minimal preparation required, obviously, which made cereal the first meal many of us learned to fix for ourselves.

Add to that relentless marketing featuring every kind of kid bait you can think of—bright colors; unshakable jingles; talking animals (and cartoon chefs, and a leprechaun, and a captain of some never-seen navy); the promise of strength and coolness and superpowers; the insider-y nod to your membership in a special club that adults can’t infiltrate; and the lure of sugar sugar sugar—and it’s not hard to see how the cereals that accompanied us throughout our youth became a days-long conversation topic among the Serious Eats staff.

We’ve learned that few childhood cereals are cherished only on their own merits: The rituals that we created for eating them, the manic mascots that charmed us, and the cartoons that we ate them by on Saturdays were just as important. And we’ve learned that you can make nearly 50% of the SE staff happy by sitting them down in front of a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Here are the cereals that we still dream of forming our own secret kids’ club around, even as grown-ups.

Alpha-Bits Cereal

After an unfortunate incident wherein three-year-old Stella was left alone with Rainbow Brite cereal long enough to eat an entire box, my parents tried to steer me away from cereals with artificial coloring. That still left me with a number of excellent options—Pops, Honey Nut Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, et cetera—the best of which was Alpha-Bits Cereal. They taste about like Lucky Charms sans the Styrofoam marshmallow bits, which was fine by me, and I’d like to think my love for a frosted alphabet helped steer me toward the baker/writer life I lead now. A-B-C-Delicious! (This bonus commercial is before my time, but everyone deserves to hear MJ singing about Alpha-Bits, especially in a video that includes The Jackson 5 sitting down for cereal around a $14,000 Eero Saarinen dining room set. Yes, I did the math.) —Stella Parks, pastry wizard

Fruit & Fibre

I knew and loved many a cereal when I was a kid—the candy-sweet nonsense, like Cookie Crisp and Lucky Charms, that my grandmother plied us with when we came for visits, as well as the more quotidian and practical choices of my parents, like Kix and Life. (Thinking back on it, I’m not even sure they bought Life that often, which speaks to its outsize importance in my mind. Life gets soggy faster than almost anything else, and it’s still the best damn cereal on the planet.) I was even #blessed enough to be able to enjoy a bowl of Cinnamon Toast Crunch fairly regularly in front of Muppet Babies.

But my most steadfast breakfast companion, probably starting when I was about eight and continuing into my teenage years, was Fruit & Fibre (now apparently styled “Fruit ‘n Fibre”). Yep, I latched on to a sensible mixture of wheat flakes, nuts, and dried fruit, named after a dietary necessity and marketed at retirees, and I suppose Mom and Dad were only too happy to oblige this particular whimsy.

Fruit & Fibre was known in the ’80s and ’90s for the tagline “Tastes so good, you forget the fiber!”—which, again, doesn’t scream “youthful image”—and a series of commercials that poked self-deprecating fun at the inexplicably British spelling, in which one character would insist that the correct pronunciation was “fruit and fee-bray.” I don’t specifically remember this one, starring Tim Conway, but it’s representative and charmingly laid-back. I have been a very old person on the inside for a very long time. —Miranda Kaplan, senior editor

Frosted Flakes

I grew up in a pretty healthy household, and that meant hell no to the sugary cereals. We had a lot of puffed-millet, cardboard-like stuff that tasted like nothing, though I do suppose it was a bit healthier (except when I put a lot of Splenda on it, which, now that I think about it, is totally gross). The only time we ever got sugary cereal was when my dad went grocery shopping, and his all-time favorite is Frosted Flakes. When that bright-blue Kellogg’s box made it onto our cereal shelf, I went totally crazy with it—it was a classic kid-who-never-has-sugar scenario.

Recently I had brunch at MiMi’s Diner in Prospect Heights, where, as a little amuse-bouche, they give you a blissful mixture of colorful sugary cereals in a little bowl—all those classics, like Cap’n Crunch and Fruit Loops. It is such a treat. I guess I can thank all that cardboard of my youth for helping me appreciate it. —Ariel Kanter, marketing director

Cookie Crisp

I still have cereal for breakfast (and sometimes dinner) every day. These days I’m more of a Cheerios or Grape-Nuts eater, but as a kid, I definitely got hooked on the more sugar-oriented cereals, and Cookie Crisp was among the many options I rotated through. A bowl full of tiny chocolate chip cookies. Did I need more of a reason to like it as an eight-year old? Though perhaps the pair of cartoon crooks (including a dog) that served as the brand’s mascot had something to do with it…that “CooooOOOOOkie Crisp” jingle is pretty solid. —Vicky Wasik, visual director

Grape-Nuts

The thing I remember most about my childhood trips to the grocery store is setting up camp in front of the wall of multicolored cereal boxes, wheedling and pleading with my parents as they shook their heads and jabbed their fingers at the panel of nutrition facts.

I mostly blame the ensuing tears on the astonishing effectiveness of cereal commercials—especially the kind that featured greedy adults with Peter Pan syndrome, trying to steal cereal from children who, in this gritty, high-stakes universe, went to great lengths to save their most treasured possession: brightly hued, sugar-saturated breakfast candy. Sweetened cereals, they proclaimed, were a child’s birthright, and if you weren’t getting your fill, it was almost certainly because some grown-up—like, say, your mom or dad—was an evil asshole.

Which is why my favorite breakfast cereal was virtually any breakfast cereal I wasn’t eating. For the most part, our pantry was limited to Cheerios or generic “health” flakes, with rare appearances from Raisin Bran and, on a good day, a box of Honey Nut Cheerios. Within the confines of those prison walls, I found myself with a particular affinity for Grape-Nuts, which would sink into a dense heap beneath my milk and form a gritty cement onto which I could project visions of overflowing bowls of Fruit Loops, Golden Grahams, and Cocoa Pebbles. Now that I’m a marginally health-conscious adult, I genuinely enjoy a bowl of Grape-Nuts. But back in ’93, they drew me in with their masochistic appeal: a meal that captured the true extent of my hardship, deprivation, and suffering. —Niki Achitoff-Gray, executive managing editor

Honey Nut Cheerios

I’ll happily eat Honey Nut Cheerios at any time of day or night, for any meal. They make an excellent appetizer, salad, entrée, or dessert; each little O possesses the perfect balance of sweet and savory (but mostly sweet). And, of course, as a kid growing up in a mostly sugar-free household in Berkeley, California, I could never eat them at home, which meant I searched frantically through cupboards and drawers whenever I was at a friend’s house, looking for that big red-and-yellow cardboard box. When I found it, I was in heaven. I still don’t buy them for my own pantry, but if I ever see that signature box tucked behind the grown-up food in a friend’s kitchen, I finish it off. —Elazar Sontag, intern

Corn Pops

Growing up in New Delhi, India, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, we couldn’t buy cereal, and there weren’t any cereal ads on TV. There was no joy in our house, and no pleasure in our home. I did pine after Corn Pops quite a bit, since I got a taste of some at my American friends’ houses, even though the Pops cut up the inside of my mouth. And, apropos of nothing at all, the guy who played Jesse Pinkman in Breaking Bad was in a Corn Pops commercial. —Sho Spaeth, features editor

Kashi Heart to Heart

I have a confession to make: I did not eat cereal until I was 15 years old. Not because I was above consuming cleverly marketed sugar bombs for breakfast (because I ate plenty of Eggos), but because I’m lactose-intolerant. This was a time before I could eat my cereal with almond milk, as I do now, so it just wasn’t an option for me. Then, during my sophomore year of high school, I had a very bright idea: dry cereal with raspberries and blackberries. The juiciness of 10 or 12 berries bursting in every two to three bites would surely mimic the milk-and-cookies effect of cereal with milk, right? So I picked out a box of Kashi Heart to Heart cereal in Honey and Oat flavor, and a container each of raspberries and blackberries, and crunched my way through that for the rest of high school. I remember the pieces sometimes being so rough and scratchy that I’d scrape the roof of my mouth on them, but the flavor was good enough, and it allowed me to finally eat my cereal. Now that I’m talking about it, I think I may actually be sparking a craving. But this time, I just might add a splash of almond milk—because I can. —Kristina Bornholtz, social media editor

Golden Grahams and Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Junk foods were rarely an option in my home, and that meant no sugary cereals either. I tasted Lucky Charms only a few times, and that was at a friend’s house after a sleepover. Golden Grahams and Cinnamon Toast Crunch were as sweet as my mom was willing to allow, and those two, to this day, are among my favorites, especially when combined in the same bowl. They go together so well, the nut-and-honey notes of Golden Grahams and the sugar-and-spice in Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and they both create, whether together or alone, some of the most delicious cereal milk in existence. I don’t think I can pick between them, nor should I have to—I was cereal-deprived enough as a kid as it was. (Also, shout-out to Quaker Cracklin’ Oat Bran, which was a decently sweet cereal on regular rotation at my home until health-conscious parents got worried about all the coconut oil in it. My, how times have changed.) —Daniel Gritzer, managing culinary director

…and More Cinnamon Toast Crunch

As a kid I’d spend all week daydreaming about Saturday, when I would wake up at the butt-crack of dawn to get my fill of cartoons and sugar. I was allowed to eat foods repped by colorful characters only on these early weekend mornings—likely because Pop-Tarts and Eggo waffles were the only things that gave my parents a day to sleep in. I wanted to maximize my sugar intake during these precious unsupervised moments, so my breakfast of choice was always Cinnamon Toast Crunch. I mean, it’s so overloaded with cinnamon sugar that the slogan was “The taste you can see.” I still don’t understand how this stuff passes as children’s breakfast food, but I’ll never forget those mornings spent doing lines of cinnamon sugar with Hey, Arnold! in the background. —Sohla El-Waylly, assistant culinary editor

Trix

“Silly rabbit, Trix are for kids!” will forever be ingrained in my brain. I loved that this cereal was so colorful. I’m pretty sure none of the flavors actually differed from one another, but I do remember that at one point the original balls were replaced by actual fruit-shaped pieces, to try to convince you that there was real lemon, grape, lime, raspberry, and blueberry flavor in there. —Vicky Wasik, visual director

Rice Krispies Treats Cereal

A cereal I remember being better in theory than in actuality. I’m assuming this commercial’s UFO references were crafted to piggyback on the paranormal-activity obsession that ran rampant throughout the late ’80s and ’90s, if kids’ television of the era is anything to go by. (See: Goosebumps, The Secret World of Alex Mack, Ghostwriter, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles…okay, that one might be a stretch.) The combo of sugary cereal plus thrills definitely hit the right note for me, and seeing a box of Rice Krispies Treats Cereal in the supermarket incited equal parts excitement and chills-creeping, sensation-laden terror, conjuring up late Saturday mornings glued to the tube over a bowl of (essentially) starchy candy that was “part of a complete breakfast.” Whoever said the ’50s and ’60s represented the golden age of advertising was clearly never a wide-eyed, impressionable child cruising the cereal aisle, visions of RKTC commercials dancing in their head. —Marissa Chen, office manager

Frosted Mini-Wheats

There were many long pit stops on my cereal journey growing up. Earlier on, there were the sweeter, more sugary stops, like Cap’n Crunch, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Lucky Charms. At summer camp I would add extra sugar to my Frosted Flakes, purposefully stir the cereal so the extra sugar sank all the way down, and eat the sugary milk goop at the bottom of the bowl with the spoon. Later on I became ever-so-slightly healthier with Honey Nut Cheerios, a very long stint on Honey Bunches of Oats (still a favorite), and a brief and shameful period on Raisin Bran. My final destination—and probably my all-time favorite to this day—was Frosted Mini-Wheats. Every bite has exactly the same ratio of ingredients, which I appreciate: just the right amount of fibrous (healthy!) and sugary. The texture is perfect, assuming you have the know-how to let the cereal soak up just the right amount of milk so it’s not dry and crunchy, then eat it quickly before it gets soggy. A seasoned veteran such as I am may even split the bowl into two or three rounds of cereal addition, thus ensuring that no piece gets too saturated before your spoon reaches it. —Tim Aikens, front-end developer

Wheat Chex

I ate more than my fair share of cereal when I was a kid, usually while sprawled out on the living room floor watching reruns of Saved by the Bell or DuckTales. I reserved the more sugary cereals (Cookie Crisp, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cap’n Crunch, and probably some that start with other letters of the alphabet) to be eaten as a dry snack and primarily ate “healthier” cereals, like Wheat Chex, with milk. I was never a big fan of cereal milk, so as I emptied the bowl, I would repeatedly add more and more cereal, until most of the milk had been absorbed. —Paul Cline, developer

amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0"; amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true"; amzn_assoc_search_bar_position = "bottom"; amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "carmela-20"; amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "search"; amzn_assoc_ad_type = "smart"; amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon"; amzn_assoc_region = "US"; amzn_assoc_title = "Shop Related Products"; amzn_assoc_default_search_phrase = "cookware"; amzn_assoc_default_category = "All"; amzn_assoc_linkid = "b45319dac495d29e17b5eff312392025"; Source link

[fuckcorn]

Cheap stuff: Dry Goods Part 4

Baking might have to be a couple different posts. Strap in. Continued from Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3.

Baking--Flours, Meals, Starches:

All-purpose flour: Pretty much any dirt-cheap store-brand flour is totally fucking fine. When you start getting into the name-brand flours and the unbleached flours, things will get more expensive and nominally cleaner. But usually a-p flour is pretty clean anyway.

Bread flour: If you’re getting into bread baking, you’ll find full guides all over the internet. I assure you that even the cheap bread flours are usually as clean as a-p flour. Though they may not have the kind of gluten content that will give you a really great rise. Making yeasted breads from scratch will always take an initial investment.

Rice, almond, coconut, gluten-free and other flours: I have less experience with these and I can almost guarantee they’re going to be more expensive. Like with the new wave of oils (coconut, sunflower, etc.) these are going to be organic and clean more often than not. Gluten-free products do tend to swerve from corn, in general, but that’s not ubiquitous. A lot of gluten-intolerant people, I’m told, sometimes have issues with corn. So you will often find their specialty products have a mess of ingredients on the labels and be shocked when you slog through the list. They use a lot of non-corn alternatives.

Cake flour: Most cake flours are as clean as a-p and bread flours. Naturally, you should read labels and read up on sources for all your flours. Personally, I don’t have any problems with even the cheapest flours.

Cornmeal: Your cornmeal alternative is going to be flaxseed meal or flour. Semolina cannot always be trusted to be made from wheat. Sometimes you can use breadcrumbs for a similar texture, but if you’re not grinding your own breadcrumbs, make sure to read the ingredients on the container you buy.

Cornstarch: Your cornstarch alternative is going to be tapioca powder or arrowroot powder. With these, the substitute can be 1:1 (meaning that if your recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder will give the same exact result). You can use flours in place of cornstarch but it won’t usually thicken in the same way.

Do NOT buy a tiny vial of arrowroot powder from the spice section at the grocery store for $5-$7. This is a total grift. Giant bags of arrowroot powder can be found at organic grocers for much cheaper. Some places also sell the Bob’s Red Mill bag of arrowroot powder. That’s probably the most accessible one. Even making an online order of a big bag will be worth the investment. It doesn’t have a great shelf life, but I keep mine in the freezer and it’s not like it cakes up, so it works just like it did when it was fresh in my pantry. Just keep it dry.

Another starch sometimes used in baking is a thickener called xanthan gum. If you have looked up a list of all the corn ingredients you can’t have, you know this one. This is almost always sourced from corn. It’s in soups, salad dressings, salsas, and toothpaste. It’s a thickening agent; you should just use arrowroot powder, instead.

Baking--Sugars and Sweeteners:

Cheap white sugar is usually fine from generic sources. Just make sure it says cane sugar. I personally go out of my way to grab Dixie Crystals; it’s just what I grew up on and what my mom always used.

Sugars go up in price the more they tout that they’re “pure cane” or raw or unprocessed. Most white sugars are honestly just fine.

Same goes for brown sugars. Light brown sugars and dark brown sugars. Just know that the darker a sugar is, the higher the molasses content. It just means that it hasn’t been processed as heavily has white table sugar.

Confectioner’s sugar, caster sugar, superfine sugar, powdered sugar: These all have the same problem--the usual brands (the cheaper brands) all use cornstarch as an anti-caking agent. This is why you should avoid foods that list “powdered sugar” as an ingredient without breaking down what that means. Powdered sugar has been processed so much that it is just incredibly fine and prone to clumping when exposed to even the slightest moisture or humidity. You should never consider “powdered sugar” an ingredient all on its own. You should ALWAYS assume it has cornstarch in it unless the label states otherwise. Thankfully there are now accessible brands (like Wholesome) that use tapioca starch as an anti-caking agent.

Alternatively, if you have a food processor that kicks enough ass, it is possible to make your own powdered sugar from white sugar. But I can tell you from experience it takes a long fucking time.

Alternative sweeteners; diet sweeteners: Please just reject these. Please just stay away from them. Even the ones that are just sugar alternatives (like monkfruit ‘sugars’) will use dextrin, dextrose, xylitol, and/or maltodextrin as fillers and anti-caking agents. Those are all corn ingredients. Equal, Splenda, Swerve--they’re all garbage.

But on the plus side they also taste like garbage so you’re better off sticking with real sugar, anyway.

Corn syrup: Your corn syrup alternative is simple syrup. Look it up. There are recipes all over the place. You can make it in a fucking microwave. One part water/one part sugar, heat until syrupy. Fuck corn syrup.

Please note that foreign products (especially those from the UK) will call corn syrup “golden syrup.” So if some sweetener touts golden syrup as its main sweetening ingredient, that’s just fucking corn syrup.

Sorry if this is part is hostile, I just really fucking hate corn syrup. It’s what I react worst to and I can smell it anytime I’m in a room with it. The grocery store soda aisle stinks of it. If you avoid it for long enough, eventually you’ll see what I mean. It’s vile and it smells like sickness to me.

I have been told that stevia and agave syrup are fine corn syrup alternatives, but they have a strange aftertaste to me; I avoid them.

Honey: Don’t buy the bears. It may be a few cents or a few bucks more, but just buy a big container of clover honey. Also, if you buy any specialty or locally-sourced honey, just know that the bees go everywhere! Unless a beekeeper can affirm for you that their bees do not have a range that includes a local corn field, there is a danger that there may be corn pollen used in the making of honey. I find generic clover honeys (from Canada, when I can get them) to be cheapest and cleanest for me. I haven’t had a reaction to them.

The more special a honey is--orange blossom honey, wildflower honey, all the way up to manuka honey--the more expensive it is. A small jar of manuka honey will cost you upwards of $25.

Maple syrup: Thankfully, maple syrup is largely regulated. Adulterated syrups will be called pancake or waffle syrups, something like that. They are not allowed to call themselves maple syrup! “Original Syrup”--generic shit like that, they all contain corn syrup and/or HFCS. Real maple syrup, 100% pure maple--those are real and unadulterated. Check the ingredients and source. Don’t pick up a generic pancake syrup just because it’s cheap. It will be corn syrup.

Just as a tip, I have found that Northeastern US and Canadian maple syrups are mild; the kind of maple flavor you’re used to. Maple syrup from other parts of the US, like Wisconsin, tends to be overly sweet or just really different from the expected maple flavor.

Honey and maple syrup are great alternatives to cane sugar in baking. All different types of sugars and sweeteners and syrups will have different effects on the final result of your pastries, however, so while they are interchangeable as a base ingredient, this does not mean that the final result will match what you’re used to.

To be continued.

Edit: Part 5 here.

[airoasis]

Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson | TEDxFoggyBottom

New Post has been published on https://hititem.kr/two-adults-two-kids-zero-waste-bea-johnson-tedxfoggybottom-5/

Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson | TEDxFoggyBottom

Translator: Maria Boura Reviewer: Rhonda Jacobs The normal American generates one ton of waste annually. My household: one jar of waste per yr given that 2008. Our ride started back in 2006; we read some books, watched some documentaries. And what my husband and i determined really made us unhappy fascinated about the long run we have been going to go away at the back of for our children. So it gave us the will to change our methods. I got super motivated in looking for waste-free alternatives. I tried lots of matters like canning and those – some things have been excellent strategies; others, now not a lot. Canning used to be a good suggestion, however I do not suggest utilizing stinging nettle on your lips in lieu of lip plumper. It quite hurts, consider me. I do not recommend making use of moss in lieu of toilet paper either.You see, moss dries, so the next day to come you turn out to be with – you realize those scouring pads? Yes, now not very exceptional. I don’t recommend that. I additionally tried making use of "no poo," which is a way of washing your hair without shampoo. You’re presupposed to wet your scalp, therapeutic massage some baking soda in, and then rinse it with apple cider vinegar. But after six months, let’s just say that the oil of my hair migrated right down to here, and i ended up with frizzy ends. No longer rather the hairstyle I was once watching for. But I believe I hit rock backside, when one night I went to lay down next to my husband, and he appeared over, rolled his eyes, and stated, "i am so tired of you smelling like pickled herring, Bea.(Laughter) it can be rather no longer attractive." So that is when I realized that might be I had gone too a long way, and possibly I should find a further substitute to shampoo. Finally this trial and blunder, we located stability. We located that for Zero Waste to be sustainable in our loved ones in the end, all we needed to do was once comply with five principles in order. Now, do not you guys even dare consider that we bury our waste in our backyard, or we throw it in different persons’s cans, or within the public packing containers. The first rule is to refuse what we should not have. Now we have without problems learned to say "no"; we say no to junk mail, we say no to single-use plastics, we are saying no to freebies. For at present, in this consumerist society, we’re the objectives of many purchaser items. However each time we take delivery of them, we create a requirement to make more. At any time when we take a free plastic pen from a conference, it’s a way for us to assert, "Please, drill extra oil from the ground to create a alternative, and the substitute will be created." The second rule of the Zero Waste tradition is to reduce what we do need.So in our residence, we’ve gone through a decluttering system. The great thing about decluttering is that it lets you share the matters that you don’t relatively use or want with different men and women. It boosts the second-hand market, which is highly foremost for the way forward for Zero Waste. In my kitchen in the historical days, I used to have a jar full of utensils. I had about ten wood spoons, until i realized that I most effective have two hands. And after I stir, I best want one hand.What’s the point of having ten wood spoons? One is ample. This can be a picture of underneath my sink. This is a area that was once stuffed with cleaning merchandise on the grounds that I used to be listening to what the entrepreneurs inform us. They tell us that for every software, we’d like a further product. To clean the home windows, we want a product; to clean the flooring, an additional product; the lavatory, another product; and we grow to be with a cupboard stuffed with toxic merchandise that we do not absolutely want.We located that we will clean our whole house simply with white vinegar and castile soap. That is our toilet, and our medication cupboard. So this represents all of the merchandise that we’d like in our lavatory. For illustration, to brush our teeth, we quite simply sprinkle baking soda on a moist toothbrush. On my eyes, i take advantage of burnt almonds; on my dermis, i take advantage of cooking oil; and on my cheeks, i take advantage of cacao powder. The only quandary with utilising cacao powder in your cheeks is that you’ve got a hazard of getting attacked by way of puppies when you stroll down the street, nevertheless it hasn’t happened but. This is the master suite. And this, the closet that I share with my husband. Now, in a typical closet, individuals handiest use 20% of their clothes. They keep the opposite 80% for the "what if." "What if…?" What if we’ve got a job interview? What if now we have a wedding to move to? What if we’re going to drop some weight? What if we will attain weight? What if, what if, what if? What we’ve completed in our residence is figure out what our 20% is, and we’ve got let go of the opposite 80%.So in my case, i’ve one pair of shorts, two skirts, two dresses, two pairs of pants, seven tops, and one sweater. Having less does now not imply that you’ve got much less choices. If truth be told, these 15 pieces allow me to create more than 50 appears. My youngsters are minimalists too. This is my youngest son’s bed room. And as you will find, all of his cloth cabinet can slot in a elevate-on. In fact, every of our wardrobes can fit in a elevate-on. You understand what the fantastic thing about that is? If we want to go away for the weekend, per week, a month; all we must do is pull out our carry-ons, we throw our wardrobes in it, we zip it, we’re out the door, then a cleaning carrier is available in, cleans the condo, after which now we have folks that come, appoint the residence out, and come to be buying our vacations.Don’t go considering that we’re trying to, or we hide things in different closets. This is our linen closet, and this is our storage. The 0.33 rule of the Zero Waste way of life is to reuse. And in our residence, reusing means swapping whatever that is disposable for a reusable substitute. So this glass jar full of handkerchief is what has replaced the tissue box. No want for disposable sponges, or paper towels. We simply use rags, a wooden scrubby, and a metal scrubby. No need for disposable food storage gadgets. We have changed them all with glass jars. And we also have been able to eliminate meals packaging readily with the aid of going to the shop with a kit made of reusables. So we store the bulk aisles of the grocery store. After which once I’m residence, I transfer the dry items into glass containers so this is what our pantry looks like. And that is what our fridge looks like. We even purchase our wine in bulk; we simply get our bottles refilled at a winery.The 2nd rule of reusing is to purchase 2nd hand. All our wardrobes are purchased 2nd hand. Yes, even my shoes. 5 bucks. Thanks, thanks. (Applause) i know I scored on these, i’m mindful of that; I obviously scored. Now, for the gadgets that we can not to find in a thrift retailer, then we fall back on places like the flea market. That is the place I purchased these chairs. Or frequently eBay for the fairly precise items that we’d like. The fourth rule of the Zero Waste culture is to recycle handiest what we can’t refuse, reduce, or reuse. So the Zero Waste lifestyle does not imply recycling extra, it clearly means recycling less, because of waste prevention within the first location. With this culture, we have now learned that we must hinder plastics in any respect bills, given that now not simplest are they poisonous to our wellbeing when they’re being manufactured, they’re also toxic to our wellness when we are without a doubt utilising them.Numerous the food packaging certainly leaches into our meals. We have additionally discovered that very few plastics have the chance of being recycled, and the ones that do have a danger of being recycled are turning into an item that is not recyclable. So we consider plastics as a fabric that’s intended for the landfill. So we attempt to restrict it in any respect charges. And as a substitute we select glass, metallic, cardboard, paper, and oftentimes timber, just like the toothbrush you noticed prior, when you consider that we are able to compost them. Rot is the last rule to the Zero Waste way of life.In these days we now not best rot – compost fruit and veggie scraps but we additionally compost our butter wrappers. Butter is the one meals that we buy in packaging. Now we purchase it in a waxed paper packaging since we will compost it. But we additionally compost floor sweepings, dryer lint, even our hair. Simply, it is extra my boys’ hair. I do not compost my hair, I recycle my hair. I let it develop down to right here, and then I get it reduce, after which I send it to an institution that makes wigs for melanoma sufferers.Not goodbye in the past, had I heard a few Zero Waste loved ones, i would have inspiration to myself, "Oh boy, these persons have got to be total granola. I am definite they live in the boondocks, and i’m definite she does not shave." good, I wore a skirt today for you guys so you could assess for yourselves. I do not have hair on my legs. (Applause) i might might be also have thought, "well, she have to be a keep-at-dwelling mom with method an excessive amount of time on her hands; she traditionally issues about her waste all day, or makes a bunch of things from scratch. That’s not the case; i’m a full-time professional, and the only matters I make are my cosmetics, and only a few of them. We observed that the Zero Waste culture is not only excellent for the environment but it is also been quality for our well being, seeing that we now have been ready to do away with all toxins from our lives, and we’re approach less ailing than we was once earlier than.We also observed that this Zero Waste subculture saves a ton of cash – 40% on our overall budget. That is because that, one, we devour manner, manner, approach not up to earlier than. However when we purchase some thing, it’s handiest to replace some thing that desires to get replaced – a shoe that has a gap in it, or a T-shirt that is too small. And when we buy that replacement, we purchase it second hand, which with the aid of definition, costs less. But we additionally buy our meals in bulk. Were you aware that while you purchase an item in a bundle, 15% of the rate covers the cost of the packaging? So when you buy in bulk, you are making an automated 15% financial savings. However in the end, we’ve changed whatever that’s disposable in our house for a reusable substitute. In order that signifies that our cash is no longer invested in throwaways, in a landfill. We not throw our money away.We’ve as a substitute, invested in reusables. And so they’ve translated into cumulative financial savings over time. They’ve even allowed us to install solar on our roof which allows for us to avoid wasting even more. However to me, the high-quality aspect of this tradition is voluntary simplicity. Because it can be made time in our existence for what issues most: a life founded on experiences instead of things. A lifestyles centered on being as a substitute of having. As a family, thanks to this way of life, we now have been ready to do matters we might have by no means suggestion feasible earlier than. We have now been able to snorkel between two continents. We’ve been ready to trip our bikes between San Francisco and los angeles. We now have been able to head ice-mountain climbing on a glacier. However my favourite snapshot is in general this one. I believe it represents the Zero Waste way of life to a T, considering the fact that it’s translated into a way of life filled with absolute happiness.And when you’ve got an adolescent, you understand how tough it is to place a smile on their faces. In any case, you understand, Gandhi stated, "Happiness is while you consider, what you say, and what you do are in concord." The Zero Waste lifestyle has finished exactly that for me. Now, the little French au pair who got here to the USA at the age of 18 would have by no means suggestion that at some point she’d be launching a global movement. In view that today, thousands and hundreds of thousands of persons in the course of the arena have launched into this subculture. My guide and my weblog have even prompted humans to open Zero Waste retailers far and wide. Like Marie, who opened the first Zero Waste store in Germany. And there may be Gerard, who, after reading my booklet, realized that there was a need to bring back in the marketplace merchandise bought in returnable containers.After which there is Anne, I imply, appear at that retailer. How lovely is this cellular, little Zero Waste store? And you recognize what we all have in common? Without difficulty the remorse of no longer having began prior. So i might encourage you guys to consider about this. What do you have got to lose by means of embarking on the Zero Waste culture? Who is aware of what you would realize about yourselves? Probably… Absolute happiness? Thank you. .

[batterymonster2021]

Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson | TEDxFoggyBottom

New Post has been published on https://hititem.kr/two-adults-two-kids-zero-waste-bea-johnson-tedxfoggybottom-5/

Two adults, two kids, zero waste | Bea Johnson | TEDxFoggyBottom

Translator: Maria Boura Reviewer: Rhonda Jacobs The normal American generates one ton of waste annually. My household: one jar of waste per yr given that 2008. Our ride started back in 2006; we read some books, watched some documentaries. And what my husband and i determined really made us unhappy fascinated about the long run we have been going to go away at the back of for our children. So it gave us the will to change our methods. I got super motivated in looking for waste-free alternatives. I tried lots of matters like canning and those – some things have been excellent strategies; others, now not a lot. Canning used to be a good suggestion, however I do not suggest utilizing stinging nettle on your lips in lieu of lip plumper. It quite hurts, consider me. I do not recommend making use of moss in lieu of toilet paper either.You see, moss dries, so the next day to come you turn out to be with – you realize those scouring pads? Yes, now not very exceptional. I don’t recommend that. I additionally tried making use of "no poo," which is a way of washing your hair without shampoo. You’re presupposed to wet your scalp, therapeutic massage some baking soda in, and then rinse it with apple cider vinegar. But after six months, let’s just say that the oil of my hair migrated right down to here, and i ended up with frizzy ends. No longer rather the hairstyle I was once watching for. But I believe I hit rock backside, when one night I went to lay down next to my husband, and he appeared over, rolled his eyes, and stated, "i am so tired of you smelling like pickled herring, Bea.(Laughter) it can be rather no longer attractive." So that is when I realized that might be I had gone too a long way, and possibly I should find a further substitute to shampoo. Finally this trial and blunder, we located stability. We located that for Zero Waste to be sustainable in our loved ones in the end, all we needed to do was once comply with five principles in order. Now, do not you guys even dare consider that we bury our waste in our backyard, or we throw it in different persons’s cans, or within the public packing containers. The first rule is to refuse what we should not have. Now we have without problems learned to say "no"; we say no to junk mail, we say no to single-use plastics, we are saying no to freebies. For at present, in this consumerist society, we’re the objectives of many purchaser items. However each time we take delivery of them, we create a requirement to make more. At any time when we take a free plastic pen from a conference, it’s a way for us to assert, "Please, drill extra oil from the ground to create a alternative, and the substitute will be created." The second rule of the Zero Waste tradition is to reduce what we do need.So in our residence, we’ve gone through a decluttering system. The great thing about decluttering is that it lets you share the matters that you don’t relatively use or want with different men and women. It boosts the second-hand market, which is highly foremost for the way forward for Zero Waste. In my kitchen in the historical days, I used to have a jar full of utensils. I had about ten wood spoons, until i realized that I most effective have two hands. And after I stir, I best want one hand.What’s the point of having ten wood spoons? One is ample. This can be a picture of underneath my sink. This is a area that was once stuffed with cleaning merchandise on the grounds that I used to be listening to what the entrepreneurs inform us. They tell us that for every software, we’d like a further product. To clean the home windows, we want a product; to clean the flooring, an additional product; the lavatory, another product; and we grow to be with a cupboard stuffed with toxic merchandise that we do not absolutely want.We located that we will clean our whole house simply with white vinegar and castile soap. That is our toilet, and our medication cupboard. So this represents all of the merchandise that we’d like in our lavatory. For illustration, to brush our teeth, we quite simply sprinkle baking soda on a moist toothbrush. On my eyes, i take advantage of burnt almonds; on my dermis, i take advantage of cooking oil; and on my cheeks, i take advantage of cacao powder. The only quandary with utilising cacao powder in your cheeks is that you’ve got a hazard of getting attacked by way of puppies when you stroll down the street, nevertheless it hasn’t happened but. This is the master suite. And this, the closet that I share with my husband. Now, in a typical closet, individuals handiest use 20% of their clothes. They keep the opposite 80% for the "what if." "What if…?" What if we’ve got a job interview? What if now we have a wedding to move to? What if we’re going to drop some weight? What if we will attain weight? What if, what if, what if? What we’ve completed in our residence is figure out what our 20% is, and we’ve got let go of the opposite 80%.So in my case, i’ve one pair of shorts, two skirts, two dresses, two pairs of pants, seven tops, and one sweater. Having less does now not imply that you’ve got much less choices. If truth be told, these 15 pieces allow me to create more than 50 appears. My youngsters are minimalists too. This is my youngest son’s bed room. And as you will find, all of his cloth cabinet can slot in a elevate-on. In fact, every of our wardrobes can fit in a elevate-on. You understand what the fantastic thing about that is? If we want to go away for the weekend, per week, a month; all we must do is pull out our carry-ons, we throw our wardrobes in it, we zip it, we’re out the door, then a cleaning carrier is available in, cleans the condo, after which now we have folks that come, appoint the residence out, and come to be buying our vacations.Don’t go considering that we’re trying to, or we hide things in different closets. This is our linen closet, and this is our storage. The 0.33 rule of the Zero Waste way of life is to reuse. And in our residence, reusing means swapping whatever that is disposable for a reusable substitute. So this glass jar full of handkerchief is what has replaced the tissue box. No want for disposable sponges, or paper towels. We simply use rags, a wooden scrubby, and a metal scrubby. No need for disposable food storage gadgets. We have changed them all with glass jars. And we also have been able to eliminate meals packaging readily with the aid of going to the shop with a kit made of reusables. So we store the bulk aisles of the grocery store. After which once I’m residence, I transfer the dry items into glass containers so this is what our pantry looks like. And that is what our fridge looks like. We even purchase our wine in bulk; we simply get our bottles refilled at a winery.The 2nd rule of reusing is to purchase 2nd hand. All our wardrobes are purchased 2nd hand. Yes, even my shoes. 5 bucks. Thanks, thanks. (Applause) i know I scored on these, i’m mindful of that; I obviously scored. Now, for the gadgets that we can not to find in a thrift retailer, then we fall back on places like the flea market. That is the place I purchased these chairs. Or frequently eBay for the fairly precise items that we’d like. The fourth rule of the Zero Waste culture is to recycle handiest what we can’t refuse, reduce, or reuse. So the Zero Waste lifestyle does not imply recycling extra, it clearly means recycling less, because of waste prevention within the first location. With this culture, we have now learned that we must hinder plastics in any respect bills, given that now not simplest are they poisonous to our wellbeing when they’re being manufactured, they’re also toxic to our wellness when we are without a doubt utilising them.Numerous the food packaging certainly leaches into our meals. We have additionally discovered that very few plastics have the chance of being recycled, and the ones that do have a danger of being recycled are turning into an item that is not recyclable. So we consider plastics as a fabric that’s intended for the landfill. So we attempt to restrict it in any respect charges. And as a substitute we select glass, metallic, cardboard, paper, and oftentimes timber, just like the toothbrush you noticed prior, when you consider that we are able to compost them. Rot is the last rule to the Zero Waste way of life.In these days we now not best rot – compost fruit and veggie scraps but we additionally compost our butter wrappers. Butter is the one meals that we buy in packaging. Now we purchase it in a waxed paper packaging since we will compost it. But we additionally compost floor sweepings, dryer lint, even our hair. Simply, it is extra my boys’ hair. I do not compost my hair, I recycle my hair. I let it develop down to right here, and then I get it reduce, after which I send it to an institution that makes wigs for melanoma sufferers.Not goodbye in the past, had I heard a few Zero Waste loved ones, i would have inspiration to myself, "Oh boy, these persons have got to be total granola. I am definite they live in the boondocks, and i’m definite she does not shave." good, I wore a skirt today for you guys so you could assess for yourselves. I do not have hair on my legs. (Applause) i might might be also have thought, "well, she have to be a keep-at-dwelling mom with method an excessive amount of time on her hands; she traditionally issues about her waste all day, or makes a bunch of things from scratch. That’s not the case; i’m a full-time professional, and the only matters I make are my cosmetics, and only a few of them. We observed that the Zero Waste culture is not only excellent for the environment but it is also been quality for our well being, seeing that we now have been ready to do away with all toxins from our lives, and we’re approach less ailing than we was once earlier than.We also observed that this Zero Waste subculture saves a ton of cash – 40% on our overall budget. That is because that, one, we devour manner, manner, approach not up to earlier than. However when we purchase some thing, it’s handiest to replace some thing that desires to get replaced – a shoe that has a gap in it, or a T-shirt that is too small. And when we buy that replacement, we purchase it second hand, which with the aid of definition, costs less. But we additionally buy our meals in bulk. Were you aware that while you purchase an item in a bundle, 15% of the rate covers the cost of the packaging? So when you buy in bulk, you are making an automated 15% financial savings. However in the end, we’ve changed whatever that’s disposable in our house for a reusable substitute. In order that signifies that our cash is no longer invested in throwaways, in a landfill. We not throw our money away.We’ve as a substitute, invested in reusables. And so they’ve translated into cumulative financial savings over time. They’ve even allowed us to install solar on our roof which allows for us to avoid wasting even more. However to me, the high-quality aspect of this tradition is voluntary simplicity. Because it can be made time in our existence for what issues most: a life founded on experiences instead of things. A lifestyles centered on being as a substitute of having. As a family, thanks to this way of life, we now have been ready to do matters we might have by no means suggestion feasible earlier than. We have now been able to snorkel between two continents. We’ve been ready to trip our bikes between San Francisco and los angeles. We now have been able to head ice-mountain climbing on a glacier. However my favourite snapshot is in general this one. I believe it represents the Zero Waste way of life to a T, considering the fact that it’s translated into a way of life filled with absolute happiness.And when you’ve got an adolescent, you understand how tough it is to place a smile on their faces. In any case, you understand, Gandhi stated, "Happiness is while you consider, what you say, and what you do are in concord." The Zero Waste lifestyle has finished exactly that for me. Now, the little French au pair who got here to the USA at the age of 18 would have by no means suggestion that at some point she’d be launching a global movement. In view that today, thousands and hundreds of thousands of persons in the course of the arena have launched into this subculture. My guide and my weblog have even prompted humans to open Zero Waste retailers far and wide. Like Marie, who opened the first Zero Waste store in Germany. And there may be Gerard, who, after reading my booklet, realized that there was a need to bring back in the marketplace merchandise bought in returnable containers.After which there is Anne, I imply, appear at that retailer. How lovely is this cellular, little Zero Waste store? And you recognize what we all have in common? Without difficulty the remorse of no longer having began prior. So i might encourage you guys to consider about this. What do you have got to lose by means of embarking on the Zero Waste culture? Who is aware of what you would realize about yourselves? Probably… Absolute happiness? Thank you. .

[gethealthy18-blog]

30 Recipes Using Pantry Staples You Already Have

New Post has been published on http://healingawerness.com/news/30-recipes-using-pantry-staples-you-already-have/

30 Recipes Using Pantry Staples You Already Have

I think it’s safe to say that our world’s were flipped upside down over the last couple of weeks. It’s made me do a lot of reflecting and I’ve realized the way I was prepping and cooking meals wasn’t sustainable for this new reality. I can’t go to the store on a whim to get fresh veggies – heck you never know what items you’ll even find so I had to start shifting.

This process has made me think about my parents, how they grew up and how I grew up. Our freezer was always stocked with frozen meats and vegetables. We had potatoes from our garden year round. My mom rarely threw food out – we ate leftovers until they were gone and if we missed the window, they were frozen to eat at a later date. I’m leaning into some of her routines and noticing where I need to be better.

Now back to the point of this blog: pantry staples! You better believe I raided my pantry when I realized I needed to use what I had. My creativity kicked in and I realized I had some great recipes living on the blog that could be made from pantry staples!

Breakfast Recipes

Portable Egg Cups – Mix in whatever veggies you can find! The quinoa and egg will keep you full for hours.

Chia Pudding – 5 Ways – Everyone needs a basic chia pudding recipe in their back pocket! If you have chia seeds and milk on hand, you can make chia pudding. Add in whatever flavors and mix-ins you’d like!

Overnight Oats – 5 Ways – Similarly to chia pudding, if you have oats and milk on hand, you can always whip up a delicious breakfast thanks to overnight oats! Add in a few of your favorite flavors to create a delicious breakfast or snack.

Slow Cooker Apple Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal – Set it and forget it with this simple (yet delicious!) steel cut oatmeal made in your slow cooker.

Banana Nut Overnight Oats – I love banana flavored anything – these overnight oats are the perfect mix of savory and sweet.

Chocolate Almond Butter Overnight Oats – Nuts + chocolate = life. Make your morning with this tasty overnight oat recipe!

Vanilla Bean Chia Pudding – A staple chia pudding recipe that you can get creative with if you want.

Berry Chia Pudding – Swap fresh berries for frozen in this berry chia pudding recipe!

Lunch Recipes

Avocado Tuna Salad – If you can’t track down an avocado, mayo is just as delicious! Eat this tuna salad on it’s own, on toast or bread, over greens or with crackers/chips.

Buffalo Chicken Salad – A spicy take on a traditional chicken salad. I love this as a sandwich or over greens.

Curried Chickpea and Avocado Salad – Vegan lunch doesn’t get much simpler with this mashed chickpea and avocado salad. Skip the curry powder if you’re not a fan of curry.

Mediterranean Egg Salad – A Mediterranean twist on a classic recipe. You’ll love the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, olives and cucumbers to this salad!

Guacamole Chicken Salad – Just like the avocado tuna salad, you can definitely stick to mayo if you need!

Quinoa and Chickpea Salad – Another vegan recipe packed with protein. This recipe packs a flavor punch with all of the seasonings and spices!

Honey Garlic Chicken and Chickpea Salad – Double the protein to keep you full for hours. I love the flavor combination of honey and garlic.

Dinner Recipes

Quinoa Taco Salad – This delicious salad is made from mostly pantry staples with a few fresh ingredients if you can find them!

Thai Quinoa Casserole – Use frozen broccoli if you can’t find fresh. You’ll love this flavor packed recipe made from pantry staples.

Quinoa Chili – Another recipe made almost entirely from pantry staples (or at least non-perishables!). Incredibly filling and delicious.

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese – Would you believe me if I told you this vegan macaroni and “cheese” is made from pantry staples? Counting butternut squash in that category because squash will stay good for a long time!

Moroccan Lentil Soup – Dinner doesn’t get much simpler than this. A soup made entirely of pantry staples!

The Ultimate Buddha Bowl – At first glance you might think this has a lot of fresh ingredients and… it does! But this bowl is 100% customizable. Use the veggies you’re able to find and the protein you have on  hand to make your own version of a buddha bowl.

Pesto Spaghetti Squash with Spicy Roasted Chickpeas – Considering squash a pantry staple because it lasts so dang long. If you spot a spaghetti squash at your grocery store, grab it and make this recipe!

Quinoa Tortilla Soup – A vegetarian version of chicken tortilla soup… you won’t miss the  meat in this delicious recipe!

Snack & Dessert Recipes

Lemon Pepper Roasted Chickpeas – Dig your chickpeas out of the pantry, it’s time for roasted chickpeas! I love them on their own for a satisfying snack but they’re also delicious on salads and grain bowls.

Sriracha Lime Chickpeas – A spicy version of one of my favorite snacks.

Savory Granola – Sometimes you just need a crunchy, savory snack to munch on. I love this granola on it’s own or on top of salads!

Tahini Chocolate Energy Balls – Pro tip: always have energy balls made! I love having these sweet treats on hand for breakfast, snack or dessert.

No Bake Peanut Butter Protein Bars – A simple protein bar to have for breakfast or snack. Pantry staples = fun and delicious!

Healthy Trail Mix – Trail mix was one of my favorite childhood snacks… and that still stands today! I love the combination of nuts, chocolate and fruit. Mix in whatever dried fruit and use whatever nuts you have!

No-Bake Oatmeal Protein Energy Balls – A great base recipe for energy bites. Mix in the flavorings that you have on hand.

JOIN THE THM NEWSLETTER

Join 10,000+ members of the THM Community to get access to exclusive recipes, healthy lifestyle tips and behind-the-scenes news from our team!

You Might Also Like…

Source: http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/TheHealthyMaven/~3/bGs0OVqcIvM/

[consulting-celiac-in-the-tardis]

49 Gluten Free Christmas Cookie Recipes With Eight Ingredients or Less

New blog post! Gluten free baking often has the reputation of being overly complicated or time-consuming...but this gluten free Christmas cookie round-up is proof of how quick, easy and delicious it can be! Since I know that the holiday season is often a very busy time and that gluten free baking can be intimidating (especially if this is your first holiday season eating gluten free or having celiac disease), I'm sharing 49 gluten free Christmas cookie recipes that use eight ingredients or less! This round-up also features plenty of vegan, keto, paleo, low carb and sugar free options, and many recipes use ingredients most people already have in their own pantry.

To make your Christmas baking even easier, I've organized this round-up by number of ingredients, so you can pick which cookie recipe sounds best...or which simplicity level fits your kitchen's cupboards right now. But whether the gluten free cookie recipe you choose calls for only three or the full eight ingredients, I can say that it will be delicious!

Gluten Free Cookie Recipes with Four Ingredients Or Less:

1. Butter Cookies (Keto) - Oh So Foodie

You can whip up these low carb cookies in just 25 minutes.

2. Fruit Swirled Meringue Cookies - Sheri Silver 

Fruit takes the edge off the overwhelming sweetness of typical meringue cookies.

3. No Bake Peanut Butter (Jelly) Cookies (Vegan) - A Baking Journey 

Your favorite sandwich combo just got a delicious cookie makeover.

4. Shortbread Cookies - Eating On a Dime

If you're looking for a simple gluten free shortbread cookie recipe, it really doesn't get more simple (or delicious) than this one! 

5. 3-Ingredient Coconut Banana Cookies (Paleo, Vegan, Sugar Free) - Melanie Cooks 

These paleo cookies have no sugar, but they're still sweet enough to satisfy a sweet tooth. 

6. Hemp Seed Breakfast Cookies (Vegan, Paleo) - Any Reasons Vegan

This gluten free cookie is healthy enough to eat for breakfast or a snack, but still sweet thanks to dried dates.

7.  Super Easy Chocolate Cookies - Think About Such Things

Did you know you can turn a gluten free cake mix into gluten free cookies?!? The easiest cookies to make if you already have a favorite gluten free cake mix sitting in your pantry!

8. 3-Ingredient Almond Cookies (Dairy Free) - A Baking Journey

You can just combine brown sugar, almond flour and eggs for a super simple Christmas cookie or dress it up with optional additional ingredients like chocolate and vanilla extract!

9. Chocolate Dipped Snickerdoodle Cookie Truffles (Vegan) - Bad to the Bowl

Have some gluten free snickerdoodle cookies already on hand (Enjoy Life Foods' is one of my fave brands!)? Upgrade them into delicious vegan truffles!

10. No Bake Chocolate Cookies (Vegan) - Vegan on Board 

If you love tahini, these gluten free and vegan Christmas cookies will be one heck of a tasty holiday gift.

Gluten Free Cookie Recipes With Five or Six Ingredients:

11. Almond Flour Shortbread Cookies (Keto, Sugar Free, Dairy Free Option) - Wholesome Yum

Besides only needing four ingredients for the cookies and the dip, these cookies only need 10 minutes of prep time.

12. No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies (Vegetarian) - The Monday Box

These vegetarian cookies are a bit unconventional in their shape and size, but the addition of crunchy puffed cereal will make them an even more memorable dessert. You can also easily swap out ingredients to fit your dietary needs, like using vegan chocolate and cereal. 

13. Tapioca Spritz Cookies (Dairy Free) - Crafty for Home

Traditionally, spritz cookies feature wheat flour and lots of butter but this gluten free and dairy free version is just as tasty.

14. Cinnamon Stars, or Zimtsterne - Mi Gluten Free Gal 

These cinnamon cookies are as cute as they are tasty, and Margaret is careful to walk you through the entire baking process, so you won't have any issues.

15. Double Chocolate Chip Cookies (Vegan) - Rhian's Recipes

These gluten free and vegan chocolate cookies could make ANY eater swoon...

16. Chocolate Crinkles Crack Cookies - Melanie Cooks 

Nothing beats a soft, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate cookie!

17. Simple Shortbread Cookies (Vegan) - Veggie Lexi

These vegan cookies are simple but that doesn't make them any less scrumptious.

18. Soft Amaretti Cookies - She Loves Biscotti

Make a gluten free, simple version of this classic Italian cookie that everyone can enjoy.

19.  Chocolate Ginger Cookies (Vegan, Healthy) - Baked By Clo

Warm Christmas spices plus dark bitter chocolate is a match made in holiday heaven.

20. Tahini Molasses Cookie (Grain Free, Nut Free) - And Here We Are

These grain free cookies are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

21. Swiss Brunsli Cookies - Fearless Dining 

You may never have heard of these Swiss cookies before, but you'll fall in love with their nutty flavor and chewy, soft texture.

22. Oat Flour Cookies, AKA Crack Cookies (Vegan) - Key to My Lime

Only six simple ingredients for cookies that are so good, you can't stop eating them? Sold!

23. Flourless S’mores Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegetarian Option) - The Monday Box

One word: droooooool.

24. Sunflower Seed Butter Cookies (Nut Free) - Savor and Savvy

No nuts needed to make this gluten free treat, which has crunchy edges and a chewy center.

16. Haselnussmakronen, or German Hazelnut Macaroons (Dairy Free) - The Toasty Kitchen

These gluten free cookies are light and chewy, and use ground nuts instead of any flour.

26. Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Grain Free, Refined Sugar Free) - Rhian's Recipes

If you love making desserts salty and sweet, you can't go wrong with these vegan peanut butter cookies. 

27. Chocolate Meringue Cookies With Just 5 Ingredients - Earth, Food and Fire

I was sold as soon as I saw these chocolate meringue cookies were also dipped in chocolate...

28. Easy Buckeye Recipe - Spend With Pennies

This no-bake gluten free cookie only needs six ingredients, and I'm willing to bet most people already have them all within reach of whatever device they're reading this on ;)

29. Intensely Chocolate Cookie Recipe - Tikkido 

Plenty of chocolate chips and cocoa powder make this gluten free Christmas cookie a chocoholic's dream.

30. Peanut Butter Blossoms - Sweet T Makes Three 

Since these gluten free cookies are flourless, no fancy flours are needed to whip up a delicious gluten free treat.

31.  Low-Sugar Shortbread Cookies - Randa Derkson

Red and green sprinkles make this gluten free shortbread recipe even more festive!

Gluten Free Cookie Recipes with Seven or Eight Ingredients:

32. Homemade Meringue Cookies Wedding Favors (Low Carb) - A Bride on a Budget

These pretty pink cookies sound fancy but only use ingredients found in most common pantries. 

33. Gingerbread Cookies (Keto, Low Carb) - Have Butter Will Travel

If you're craving a traditional gingerbread cookie but following a low carb diet, consider these keto cookies an early Christmas gift.  ;) 

34. Vanilla Crescent Cookies (Vegan, Soy Free) - Spabettie

This cookie is sweet, buttery and rich without any gluten, dairy, egg or soy!

35. Chocolate Dipped Brown Sugar Shortbread - Texanerin

Follow the 1-to-1 gluten free baking flour option to whip up some gluten free shortbread cookies that almost look too pretty to eat.

36. Low Carb Chocolate Chip Cookies (Keto) - Two Sleevers

This recipe technically has nine ingredients, but one of them is salt, so I thought it deserved to join the gluten free Christmas cookie party! And this keto cookie recipe changes up the usual chocolate chip flavor by also including mixed nuts.

37. Chocolate Cinnamon Stars (Dairy Free) - Eat Little Bird

This gluten free cookie recipe updates the traditional Zimtsterne recipe by adding cocoa powder to the mix.

38. Pumpkin Sweet Patties (Vegan) - Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing

Pumpkin puree, orange zest, cashews and a few other ingredients combine for a vegan cookie that anyone would enjoy.

39. Preniki, or Russian Christmas Cookies - Enjoying Life Everyday

An icing made of heavy cream and sugar puts these Russian Christmas cookies over the top, and the cookie bases are actually made partly from Greek yogurt!

40. No Bake Chocolate Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies (Dairy Free Option) - Hot Pan Kitchen

These no-bake cookies are the ideal healthier treat when you're short on time and don't even want to bother turning on an oven.

41. Flourless Almond Thumbprint Cookies - Foodal

Pair this gluten free cookie with afternoon tea for the perfect cozy snack.

42. "Sugar" Cookies (Paleo, Egg Free, Grain Free, Dairy Free) - Titus 2 Homemaker

Sugar cookies have never been so allergy-friendly!

43. Chocolate-Dipped Orange Macaroons - Twists and Zests

Orange zest and chocolate shake up the traditional macaroon recipe.

44. Chocolate Avocado Cookies (Paleo & Keto Friendly) - The Soccer Mom Blog

No one will ever guess that avocado is the secret ingredient to these paleo Christmas cookies.

45. Superfood Coconut Banana Cookies (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

If you're looking for cookies that also taste like banana bread and are healthy enough to eat for Christmas breakfast, this is my favorite recipe! The maca powder and cacao nibs up the superfood power, but neither are required for some yummy cookies.

46. Low Carb Cream Cheese Cookies (Keto, Sugar Free) - Low Carb Yum

Christmas cookies made with cream cheese?!? Keto baking has never been simpler.

47. Choco Crisps (Dairy Free Option) - Kitchen Frau

These gluten free cookies are like rice crispy treats, but even better. ;)

48. Bananadoodles (Snickerdoodles) - Hello Spoonful

This gluten free snickerdoodle recipe uses healthier ingredients like bananas, oat flour and apple sauce to deliver that same festive flavor. As always, make sure you use gluten free, non-cross-containated oats when grinding your own flour.

49. Chocolate Dipped Macaroons (Dairy Free, Low Fodmap) - Flavor the Moments

Who knew that coconut flakes, almond flour and a few other ingredients could combine into a super yummy Christmas cookie?

Merry Christmas, all!

I know that I'll be enjoying plenty of extra baked goods this December and I hope that your holiday season is just as delicious. Just remember that regardless of your dietary restrictions, you can still have a happy and food-filled Christmas - you just may need to get a little creative! Ad if you need even more inspiration for the holidays, check out some of my previous gluten free holiday recipe round-ups: 41 Gluten Free Party Food Recipes for the Holidays, 33 Gluten Free Christmas Cookie Recipes For the Holidays and 55 Healthy Gluten Free Dessert Recipes for the Holidays.  What Christmas cookies do you enjoy making every year? Tell me in the comments! via Blogger https://ift.tt/35yUg6M

[kivenmed]

The tables have turned.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});

All of the sudden, people are echoing "Bacon is good, fruits are bad" around the deepest corners of the health and fitness world. They say that the Keto Diet, and other popular Low-Carb-High-Fat diets, are the new magic bullet to weight loss.

Whilst that is up for debate, I can confirm which foods are approved, and which foods are off the table, for success with the Keto Diet.

In this article, you will find the ultimate Keto Diet food list so you can stock your pantry the right way.

Stay to the end to grab a free infographic and discover the best way to lose weight fast—it's not what you think!

What is Keto?

Keto—short for Ketogenic— is a recently popular diet that promotes weight loss in the body by burning fat instead of sugar (glucose).

When you're in "ketosis", your body turns fat into "ketones" in the liver, which is used for energy. (1)

Sound a little complicated?

Don't worry, all you need to know is that for "ketosis" to take place, your diet needs to consist of roughly:

Fat (80%)

Protein (15%)

Carbs (5%)

Now, that is a lot more fat than usually recommended.

What on earth does a typical diet look like with THAT breakdown?

Lucky for you, I've put together a simple Keto Diet food list, so you don't have to worry. Just make sure you:

Bookmark this page for future reference

Pin this to your favourite keto Pinterest boards

Print out and keep in the kitchen to share with the family

All sorted? Cool. Let's get on with the show!

Keto Diet food list

Before I dive in to which foods you can and can't eat on the Keto Diet, I want to remind you first of the key principle to weight loss.

You must be burning more energy than you consume each day to lose weight.

You can't go around eating bacon 24/7 and then point your finger at the Keto Diet for failing to achieve your weight loss goals.

Meats

One of the core components of the Ketogenic Diet is, of course, meat.

Meat is very well known for it's high-protein, low-carb properties making it perfect for staying in Ketosis.

This doesn't mean you can let your guard down, however. You need to understand how your meat is prepared if you're going to seriously stick to this diet.

Although breaded meat is more obvious to the Keto newbie, some processed meats contain added sugar and starchy fillers. Check the labels or speak to your butcher.

Otherwise, here is a good list of approved Keto meats:

Bacon

Chicken

Steak

Duck

Crab

Lamb

Ham

Pork

Lobster

Shrimp

Turkey

Veal

Salmon

Trout

Elk

Beef

Hot dogs

Sausages

Clams

Bison

Boar

Seeds & Nuts

Seeds and nuts are a calorie dense snack, packed full of healthy nutrients. They're super handy to have around the house, or in your work bag, and can even be added to salads to help fill you up.

Be careful though.

Too may of these tasty little treats and you will knock yourself out of ketosis. Some nuts, such as cashew nuts, can contain over 9g of carbs per handful.

Stick to the lower carb nuts and seeds on this list, however, and you should be fine:

Brazil nuts

Hazelnuts

Macademia nuts 

Pecans 

Pine nuts

Walnuts

Almonds

Fats

This is where the bulk of your calories are going to come from.

Heart healthy fats and oils are extremely calorie dense and, fortunately for you, a little goes a long way in reaching your weight loss targets.

Just don't mistake unhealthy trans-fats in being good for the Keto Diet or losing weight. You need to stay well away from any processed fats if you want to be healthy.

Stick to this list of "good" fats and you will good as gold:

Butter

Cream

Eggs

Coconut, palm, and extra virgin olive oil

Lard

Bacon fat

Avocados

Fish oils

Nut oils 

Yogurt

Animal products 

Veggies

Your Mom was right when she told you to get your "5-a-day".

If she was into the Keto Diet however, it would have been more like "5-a-day-but-make-sure-to-avoid-starchy-vegetables".

Non-starchy vegetables, on the other hand, are a great way for you to get your daily requirement of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

As a general rule, try to avoid root vegetables and stick to leafy greens. This way you can avoid unexpected high does of carbs that will knock you out of Ketosis.

Even better, just stick to this list:

Asparagus

Celery

Cocumber

Radishes

Romaine lettuce

Spinach

Cauliflower

Cabbage

Zucchini

Eggplant

Brussel Sprouts

Broccoli

Green beans

Dairy

Good news guys, dairy is back on the menu!

Dairy and fermented dairy products are a great source of protein and probiotics. They're also a great way to add flavor and texture to a meal, which makes weight loss diets all the more bearable.

Make sure to read the label as some manufacturers will try to add in hidden sugars to their products. I recommend you go for full-fat options, but keep an eye on your overall calories to make sure you're staying in a deficit.

Some good dairy choices are:

Cottage cheese

Sour cream

Greek or natural yogurt (unsweetened)

Cream cheese

Butter

Cheese (mozzarella, provolone, swiss, cheddar, etc.)

Suggested post: what-are-some-not-so-obvious-reasons

Foods to avoid

Now it's important to note that low-carb doesn't mean no-carb.

It is very difficult to completely avoid all carbs in your diet, as some food will contain low amounts that collectively add up to your 5% allowance.

That being said, the occasional high carb food is allowed as long as you're sticking to your overall goals.

I recommend you try and avoid processed junk food, whether you're trying to lose weight or not. That stuff is just straight up not good for you.

If you're a beginner to the Keto Diet, avoid these foods for now until you get a better understanding of where your macros and calories are coming from:

Grains

Alcohol

Processed and refined fats (vegetable oils and margarine)

Fruits and fruit juices

Pasta

Pasteries

Potatoes

Cookies, chocolate bars, and ice cream

Soda

Cereals

Beans

Corn

Candy

Free Infographic

Woah, that is quite a lot to remember all at once.

Having a Keto Diet food list close at hand will help you to quickly reference what you can and can't eat.

Don't forget to:

Bookmark this page for future reference

Pin this to your favourite keto Pinterest boards

Print out and keep in the kitchen to share with the family

Before you go, check out this neat Keto Diet food list infographic I made for you...

If you enjoyed this article, please share to social media and help others on their weight loss journeys! Thanks 

[consulting-celiac-in-the-tardis]

45 Healthier Gluten Free Desserts for Valentine's Day

New blog post! Regardless of whether you're single or in a long-term relationship, a Valentine's Day lover or hater, our Valentine's Days all have one thing in common: lots of delicious food! To help make your February even tastier than usual, though, I thought I'd round up some of my favorite gluten free dessert recipes. The best part? All of these Valentine desserts have been given a healthy twist, whether it's by making them paleo, low carb or vegan, sneaking in some hidden veggies or including less sugar than your typical dessert. BUT they all taste just as delicious!

So whether you're looking for the best gluten free dessert recipes, healthier dessert ideas or just a delicious way to celebrate Valentine's Day this year, keep reading to discover 45 delicious gluten free dessert recipes!

1. Chocolate Raspberry Truffles (Keto) - Keen for Keto

These chocolate truffles look almost too good to eat. But if someone has to do it...I'll sure volunteer!

2. Avocado Chocolate Pudding (Vegan, Raw) - Imagelicious 

Out of all the gluten free vegan recipes out there, this avocado chocolate pudding is a definitely must-make. Who can turn down a creamy, dreamy chocolate dessert?!?

3. Healthier Blackberry Apple Hazelnut Crisp - Pass Me Some Tasty

A traditional gluten free apple crisp just got a berry delicious makeover.

4. Super Clumpy Summer Squash Granola (Vegan, Sugar Free, Oil Free) - Casey the College Celiac

Combine this gluten free granola with your choice of vegan ice cream, banana ice cream or dairy-full treat, and you'll have one delicious creamy and crunchy combo!

(As with all of the recipes in this round up, you should make sure you use gluten free, non-cross-contaminated nuts and seeds if you have celiac disease. Scroll to the bottom of this post for info on my favorite places to buy gluten free seeds/nuts!)

5. Apple Donut - Courtney's Sweets

Grab some gluten free frosting and apple slices will never taste so good.

6. Beet Nut Butter Cups (Vegan) - Veggie Desserts

There's no beet-ter way to get in some veggies than with these chocolate treats! Plus, this easy gluten free dessert only requires four ingredients to make.

7. Banana Mug Cake (Grain Free, Dairy Free, Vegan and Whole 30 Options) - One Clever Chef

If you've ever wished you could eat some banana bread or cake in two minutes or less...here's your dream come true.

8. Healthy Peanut Butter Balls (Keto, Low Carb) - Joy Filled Eats 

All you need is four ingredients to whip up a keto dessert that any peanut butter lover will fall head over heels for...

9. Chocolate Pecan Love Bites (Vegan) - E. A. Stewart Spicy RD Nutrition

These gluten free cookies have a secret healthy ingredient. Hint: it starts with "chick" and ends with "peas"...

10. Brownie Batter Hummus (Vegan) - Pink Fortitude

Who knew hummus could make such a delicious dessert?!?

11. Easy Paleo Strawberry Cream Pie (No Bake) - Oh The Things We'll Make

Nothing says "Valentine's Day" like a pink paleo dessert that only takes 20 minutes to make...

12. Red Velvet Brownies (Vegan) - Veg Annie 

Beets, squash and black beans make these brownies as nutritious as they are delicious!

13. Superfood Berry Banana Bites (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

Frozen fruit has never tasted so good!

14. 4-Ingredient (No Butter!) Chocolate Fudge with Coconut - Two Healthy Kitchens

If you're looking for easy gluten free desserts, this simple fudge fits the bill! You can make it ahead of time and mold it into whatever shapes fit your fancy.

15. Vanilla Cupcakes with Perfectly Pink Beet-Dyed Coconut Cream Frosting (Vegan) - Just Beet It

I really don't know what to say besides YUM.

16. Chocolate Banana Bars - This Ole Mom 

Make sure you use certified gluten free oats to whip up these gluten free dessert bars. I still can't believe this dessert features beans!

17. Triple Chocolate Mousse Shooters (Paleo, Refined Sugar Free) - Raia's Recipes

Creamy avocado mousse + fluffy coconut whipped cream + a crumbly almond flour crust = major YUM.

18. Easy No-Bake Chocolate Fig Bars (4-Ingredients, Vegan, Grain-Free) - Clean Eating Kitchen

Gluten free vegan recipes can sometimes require complicated ingredients or a lot of time in the kitchen...but this dessert recipe is the exception! Throw together some gluten free figs, pumpkin seeds, chocolate chips and coconut oil, and prepare to enjoy a Valentine's Day dessert you'll definitely remember.

19. Chocolate Superfood Smoothie Bowl (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

This vegan smoothie recipe is nutritious enough to be eaten for breakfast but tastes decadent enough to eat as dessert. The best of both worlds!

20. Sweet Potato Brownies (Vegan) - Rhian's Recipes

Sweet potatoes are the secret ingredient to these super fudgy gluten free brownies...

21. Easy Chocolate Fat Bombs with Coconut Oil (Keto, Paleo, Low Carb) - Wholesome Yum

Am I the only one drooling?!? I doubt it! A low carb dessert has never looked so decadent.

22. Strawberry Cupcakes - The Soccer Mom Blog

I love that these gluten free cupcakes feature some fresh strawberry puree in their batter and icing!

23. Keto Low Carb Cheesecake - Noshtastic

This is one keto dessert that anyone would enjoy digging into...

24. Chocolate Cauliflower Ice Lollies (Vegan) - Recipes From a Pantry

Can you believe these vegan popsicles have cauliflower in them?!? Mind. Blown.

25. Superfood Chocolate Banana Brownies (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

These brownies are soft like banana bread, packed with chocolate flavor and loaded with hidden superfoods. What more could you want?!?

26.  Raspberry Dusted Brownie Truffles (Vegan) - Spabettie

I have some gluten free cashews in my pantry that are begging to be made into this chocolate vegan dessert!

27. Homemade Jello Snacks - Food Meanderings 

Cut these homemade jello snacks into a heart, and no one will ever guess they're loaded with fruits and veggies!

28. Red Velvet Cupcakes - Good for You Gluten Free 

You can't go wrong with a classic...especially since these gluten free cupcakes are dyed naturally with beets.

29. Vegan Chocolate Pudding - Deliciously Plated

I love how the tart raspberry sauce complements the thick, rich vegan chocolate pudding! And if you're scared of diving into avocado pudding right away, this dessert features banana as well for extra sweetness.

30. The Best Low Carb Carrot Cake (Grain Free, No Sugar Added) - Dr. Davinah's Eats 

I've never been a huge carrot cake person, but I bet this could convert me!

31. 2-Ingredient Protein Candy (Vegan) - Nest and Glow

To get a dose of protein with your sweet fix, whip up this super easy 2-ingredient protein candy! I've had chocolate covered chickpeas before and they are waaaaay more delicious than they sound, so I definitely need to give this recipe a try.

31. Sweet n' Salty Banana Ice Cream (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

If you want an easy gluten free dessert, look no further than banana ice cream! You only need a few ingredients and it's super easy to make in a high-speed blender or food processor.

32. Delicata Squash Coconut Flour Brownies (Paleo) - Fearless Dining

Who knew that squash and chocolate were soul mates?!?

33. Chocolate Avocado Cupcakes (Vegan, No Added Oil) - Healthy Slow Cooking

Is there anything avocado can't do?!? I don't think so...

34. Low Carb Salted Raspberry Chocolate Bark (Keto) - Appetite for Energy 

Frozen raspberries are icing sprinkles on top of this homemade keto chocolate dessert.

35. Strawberry Chunky Monkey Dessert Quesadilla (Vegan Option) - Casey the College Celiac

Quesadillas just got a sweet and delicious upgrade!

36. Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes (Low Carb) - Low Carb Yum

This low carb cream cheese dessert is perfect for Valentine's Day...or any day of the year, really!

37. Sweet Millet Balls with Sweet Berry Sauce (Vegan) - My Pure Plants 

Millet is high in fiber, protein, magnesium, copper and manganese...and it makes for a delicious, light dessert in the form of sweet millet balls.

38. Flourless Chocolate Cake (Dairy Free) - Cathy's Gluten Free 

Everyone loves a classic flourless chocolate cake...but this one's a lil' healthier by using coconut oil.

39. Easy Baked Cinnamon Apples (Vegan) - Delightful Adventures

Sometimes dessert can be as simple (and scrumptious) as baked apples!

40. Healthy Blueberry Banana Mug Cake (Vegan) - Vibrant Guide

Who needs blueberry banana oatmeal when you can grind up those gluten free oats and make a vegan mug cake instead?

41. Mini Almond Flour Chocolate Cake - Snappy Gourmet

Excuse me as I lick my computer screen...

42. Chewy Pumpkin Popcorn Balls (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

Depending on the popcorn you use, this gluten free dessert is refined sugar free. Plus, you sneak in some veggies with the pumpkin!

43. Quinoa and Lavender Healthy Chocolate Bark - Turning the Clock Back

Homemade chocolate bark gets some added protein from quinoa and a pop of color and unique flavor from edible lavender. 

44. Chickpea Flour Cookies (Vegan) - Our Wasabi Life

Gluten free cookies just got a deliciously healthy makeover with chickpea flour. 

45. Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake (Vegan) - Give It a Whirl Girl

Who says you can't have cheesecake while eating a vegan diet?!? 

Where to Find Gluten Free Nuts/Seeds for Your Baking Adventures

As you've probably noticed, a lot of these gluten free recipes feature nuts and seeds. Make sure yours are gluten free and non-cross-contaminated. (Same with any oats you use!) Some of my favorite brands to buy gluten free nuts and seeds from are Nuts.com and Anthony's Goods (I usually order the latter on Amazon). I'm also an ambassador for Foods Alive, which offer a variety of delicious seeds and nuts, from hemp seeds to walnuts. Some of my favorites are their organic sunflower seeds and organic pumpkin seeds.  

The Bottom Line of Eating Gluten Free This Valentine's Day

When you're first diagnosed with celiac disease or need to start a gluten free diet, it can feel overwhelming to prepare gluten free foods for holidays like Christmas, Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day. As this round up shows, though, you don't have to eat gluten in order to enjoy a delicious dessert this Valentine's Day! In fact, you can even eat your cake and some hidden veggies with a lot of these gluten free dessert ideas. So whatever your dietary needs this holiday - from general gluten free to low carb to keto to refined sugar free - I hope you show yourself some extra edible love this Valentine's Day. Which recipe from this round up would you like to try first? Tell me in the comments! via Blogger http://bit.ly/2td3xju

[consulting-celiac-in-the-tardis]

49 Healthy Gluten Free Breakfast Recipes for the New Year

New blog post! Now that the New Year is here, it seems like there's no better time than now to start enjoying some yummy and healthy breakfasts! So to kick off 2019, I thought I'd share a roundup of some healthy breakfast ideas from around the blogosphere. And by "healthy," I mean breakfasts that are packed with extra veggies and nutrients - but since "healthy" is definitely a subjective term, I've strived to include enough variety in this roundup so that you can find a breakfast recipe that's healthy and delicious for you.

For instance, if you've been following my blog (or my Instagram) for a while, you probably know that healthy breakfast smoothies are my favorite choice...but this roundup is also packed with breakfast muffins, healthy egg breakfast ideas and breakfasts that fit a vegan, paleo and nut free diet. So whether you've made a New Year's resolution to eat a bit healthier or just want to discover the best gluten free breakfast in 2019, keep scrolling to find 49 breakfast recipes that will give you all the fuel you need to slay the new year!

1. Chocolate Superfood Smoothie Bowl (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

Since healthy smoothie recipes are my kind of breakfast, I couldn't resist starting this roundup with one of my most popular gluten free and vegan recipes on the blog: this chocolate superfood smoothie bowl! It may look and taste decadent, but it's packed with healthy ingredients like cacao powder and zucchini. Dessert for breakfast just got a healthy upgrade!

2. Roasted Butternut Squash Breakfast Casserole - Snacking In Sneakers

MIND. BLOWN. Who would've thunk butternut squash could look so good for breakfast?!?

3. Chunky Monkey Breakfast Quinoa Bowl (Vegan) - Vegan Huggs 

Enjoying a delicious and nutritious gluten free vegan breakfast has never been easier...

4.  Zucchini Fritter Eggs Benedict with Prosciutto and Tomato - Low Carb Maven 

Your classic eggs benedict just got a low carb, gluten free upgrade.

5. Fluffy Vegan Pancakes with Hidden Protein - My Pure Plants

Raise your hand if you'd like to eat your pancakes and get tons of plant-based protein too. If your hands in the air...you'll LOVE these gluten free and vegan pancakes, which feature red lentils for extra protein! Make sure you use gluten free oats to grind the oat flour.

6. Whipped Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl - Diabetes Strong

Cottage cheese just got a fluffy, creamy, breakfast-y makeover!

7. Instant Pot Teff Breakfast Cheese Grits - Fearless Dining

Teff is high in protein and iron, packed with fiber and full of calcium and resistant starch...and when used in this cheese grits recipes, it tastes so decadent, you'll forget you're eating healthy!

8. Creamy Spirulina Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

I promise...you don't even taste the spinach and spirulina in this chia seed pudding! If you're looking for an easy, make-ahead breakfast recipe, this chia seed pudding is exactly what you need.

9. Easy Baked Oatmeal (Dairy Free) - The Forked Spoon

If you can eat oats, you'll love this baked oatmeal recipe, which is loaded with superfoods like coconut oil, chia seeds, flax seeds and hemp seeds.

10. Potato Breakfast Hash with Sausage, Mushrooms and Peppers (Whole 30) - Hot Pan Kitchen

Even if you're not doing the Whole30 this January, you'll love this gluten free breakfast hash! Plus, you'll learn the secret to getting crispy potatoes every single time...

11. Low Carb Flaxseed Pancakes (Paleo, Keto-Friendly) - Wholesome Yum

I love that this gluten free pancake recipe can easily be made nut-free by replacing the almond flour with extra sunflower seed meal, and you can freeze these pancakes for a super easy breakfast on busy mornings!

12. Homemade Instant Pot Greek Yogurt - Cardamom and Coconut

You only need two ingredients to whip up some homemade and crazy delicious yogurt for breakfast or snacks.

13. Breakfast Pie - Our Gluten-Free Travels

If you're craving a healthy egg breakfast, this breakfast pie needs to land on your weekly menu ASAP.

14. Veggie-Loaded Blueberry Pie Smoothie Bowl (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

If you've never tried using zucchini or squash in your smoothie bowls, then you need to try out this healthy smoothie recipe and see all of the creamy goodness you're missing!

15. Instant Pot Egg Bites - Recipe From a Pantry

Did you find an Instant Pot under your Christmas tree? Then you'll love using it to make these low carb, high protein egg bites.

16. Healthy Carrot Cake Oatmeal - Everyday with Madi Rae

Carrot cake for breakfast?!? Yes please! And this gluten free oatmeal also includes vanilla collagen if you're jumping on the collagen train!

17. Baked Egg in Avocado - Swirls of Flavor

If you need a healthy low-carb breakfast, you can't go wrong with avocado and an egg.

18. Chocolate Sweet Potato Smoothie Bowl (Paleo) - Raia's Recipes 

Even if you're not a sweet potato lover, this healthy breakfast smoothie recipe will have you licking the bowl clean...

19. Triple Berry Whole Grain Muffins (Vegan, Refined Sugar Free, Oil Free) - Casey the College Celiac

Eating gluten free doesn't mean you can't still enjoy some delicious breakfast muffins! This breakfast muffin recipe also features whole grains and is naturally sweetened with bananas and frozen berries.

20. Healthy Vegetable Frittata - Sweet and Savoury Pursuits

You can whip up this savory breakfast recipe in just 30 minutes. Plus, it's a delicious way to use up whatever veggies you have in your fridge!

21. Banana Almond Pancakes (Vegan Option) - Whitney in Wonderland 

You'd never guess that these gluten free pancakes are made using garbanzo bean flour.

22. Southwest Tofu Scramble Breakfast Tacos (Vegan) - Delightful Adventures

Make sure you use gluten free seasoning and tortillas, and you'll love this gluten free vegan breakfast option!

23. Chewy and Fruity Breakfast Bars - Foodal 

If you've ever wanted to eat a jam sandwich for breakfast or be able to easily tote oatmeal on-the-go, these breakfast bars are your dream come true.

24. Southwestern Spaghetti Squash Hashbrowns (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac

I'm rarely a savory breakfast kinda gal...but these southwestern spaghetti squash hash browns are definitely worth waking up for! If you need some new healthy breakfast options, these homemade veggie-packed hashbrowns make a delicious morning meal.

25. Muesli Low Carb Cereal (Paleo) - Low Carb Mom

Even traditional cereal lovers will fall head over taste buds for this paleo cereal recipe...

26. Brown Rice Porridge with Figs and Blueberries - Kitchen Sanctuary 

Brown rice has never been so tasty for breakfast!

27. Crustless Zucchini Bacon Quiche - Pass Me Some Tasty

You don't have to love veggies to love this healthy egg breakfast!

28. Apple Pie Chia Seed Pudding - The Bewitchin Kitchen

If you're looking for healthy breakfast ideas for meals you can prep ahead of time, this chia seed pudding needs to land on your weekly menu ASAP.

29. One Pan Healthy Sweet Potato Hash and Eggs for Two (Whole 30, Paleo) - Cook With Me, Darling

As a lover of both zucchini and sweet potatoes, this is my kind of Whole 30 breakfast recipe.

30. Cozy Cacao Oatless Zoats (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

When I first heard about the trend of putting grated zucchini in oatmeal, I was skeptical...but this gluten free and vegan zoats recipe tastes anything but healthy, especially with some warmed berries and a little bit of sunflower butter swirled inside! For those who can't tolerate oats (like me), this porridge recipe is also ideal since it uses buckwheat and rice flakes instead of oats.

31. 21 Day Fix Southwest Breakfast Casserole - The Foodie and the Fix

You can make this healthy breakfast casserole ahead of time, and it's easily customizable to whatever your taste buds are craving!

32. Beautiful Breakfast Tart (Dairy Free Option) - The View From Great Island

Use gluten free oats to can whip up a breakfast that is almost too pretty to eat.

33. Mini Frittatas - Beyond the Chicken Coop

You can't go wrong with a classic, and this healthy egg breakfast is perfect for eating on-the-go.

34. The Best Shakshuka Recipe (Dairy Free) - Happy Kitchen Rocks

I can't say for sure that this is the best shakshuka recipe out there...but it is a dang tasty gluten free breakfast, especially when served with a slice of gluten free toast.

35. 3-Ingredient Blueberry Cheesecake Bagels (Egg Free) - Casey the College Celiac 

Only three ingredients are between you and these blueberry cheesecake bagels, which are lower in sugar (and more packed with calcium and protein) than their name would suggest! These make an especially delicious healthy breakfast when paired with extra yogurt for dipping...

36. Twice Baked Sweet Potato - Turning the Clock Back 

Is there anything a sweet potato can't do? I don't think so.

37. Protein Packed Monster Breakfast Cookies (Grain-Free, Egg Free, Nut Free) - Allergy Free Alaska

Cookies for breakfast? Yes please!

38. Paleo Spinach and Sweet Potato Muffins (Dairy Free) - Superkid Eats

I love that these breakfast muffins are loaded with fruits and veggies, featuring goodies like sweet potato, spinach, applesauce and banana flour!

39. Grab and Go Breakfast Casserole - Faithfully Gluten Free 

You can enjoy a whole gluten free breakfast in a few bites with these convenient mini casseroles.

40. Healthy Caramel Chia Seed Pudding (Vegan, Oil-Free) - A Virtual Vegan

Smooth and creamy chia seed pudding and sweet date caramel combine for one heck of a tasty gluten free and vegan breakfast.

41. Avocado Stuffed French Toast with a Poached Egg - Fab Food 4 All

Now, I wouldn't necessarily say "french toast" is super healthy...but this savory gluten free french toast is packed with healthy fats from avocado and protein from the poached egg!

42. Keto Pancakes (Grain Free, No Sugar Added) - Dr. Davinah's Eats 

You only need twenty minutes to whip up these almond flour pancakes.

43. Banana Oatmeal (Vegan) - Rhian's Recipes 

It wouldn't be a true healthy breakfast round-up without a super easy option: vegan banana oatmeal. Just make sure you use gluten free oats.

44. Turmeric Spinach and Eggs - Served From Scratch

This gluten free breakfast got a superfood makeover with help from turmeric and spinach!

45. Secretly Healthy Coconut Pumpkin Granola (Vegan) - Casey the College Celiac 

Sprinkle this gluten free granola on yogurt, a fresh smoothie or eat it plain for a tasty and easy healthy breakfast.

46. Healthy Spinach Egg Muffins with Tomatoes (Low Carb, Options for Vegetarian, Paleo and Dairy Free) - Evolving Table

Breakfast muffins don't have to be sweet. Bake eggs, spinach, tomatoes and a few other ingredients in muffin tins for an easy on-the-go savory meal. Plus, this breakfast recipe is easily adaptable to a vegetarian, paleo or dairy free diet.

47. Avocado and Bacon Breakfast Tacos (Dairy Free) - 5 Minutes for Mom

"Taco" bout a delicious way to start the day!

48. Vanilla Matcha Donuts (Vegan) - Healthy Helper 

Not only are these donuts gluten free and vegan, but they're also packed with hidden veggies and high in protein. Be sure to use gluten free oats and protein powder.

49. Paleo Protein Porridge (Grain Free, Dairy Free) - Tasting Page

Hemp seeds, flax seeds, shredded coconut and non-dairy milk combine for a paleo porridge that will make even oatmeal lovers jealous!

The Bottom Line of Healthy Breakfasts

The truth is, the "best gluten free breakfast" looks different for everyone. You can rest assured, however, that all of the gluten free breakfast recipes I've shared above are tasty options to start your day with.

Now you just have to make the hard choice of deciding which breakfast you wanna whip up first!

Are you a sweet or savory breakfast lover? Tell me in the comments! 

via Blogger http://bit.ly/2RgiaRJ