my Forever LifeStyle!  Pursuing a Life of Balance... Partially Self-Sufficient, Nearly Grain-Free, Somewhat Raw, Kinda Vegetarian, Almost Paleo... It's a 100% REAL Whole Foods Life!
THIS IS ONE SWEEEET GIVEAWAY!  May 21, 2013...Swerve is a terrific new sweetener (new to me because it's not out here on the west coast yet)! It's made with my favorite sweetener, Erythritol and Oligosaccharides, both derived from non-GMO fruits and veggies. Erythritol is a fermented sugar alcohol, that is not absorbed in our bloodstream and Oligosaccharides are also a non-digestible fiber that feeds the good bacteria in our large intestine. Swerve measures cup for cup with sugar and is easy to bake with! If you win, you'll get this Baking Kit (a $50 value) just in time to try out one of my new cupcakes in my NEW CUPCAKE BOOK that will be out next month! CLICK HERE TO ENTER DAILY....GOOD LUCK! A GINGER STEAK SALAD Remake!  May 17, 2012...It's been just over a year now that this strange little site first began and I think it's an appropriate time to share a delicious dish from the blogger that I gleaned my initial inspiration from: Pioneer Woman! Y'all know I promote taking a good hard look at your pantry and making some simple changes that can make a world of difference to your health, without sacrificing flavor, so I, of course, would make those same simple changes to this recipe! It's sooo easy to buy and use Tamari (real fermented Soy Sauce) or Liquid Aminos instead of Soy Sauce, Palm Sugar instead of Brown Sugar, Honey instead of regular Sugar and Fresh Limes instead of bottled Lime Juice! Make sure your Steak is Grass-fed and Organic and you are set for onnne Taaasty GINGER STEAK SALAD! Check out FAVORITE INGREDIENTS for more Easy Ingredient Switch-a-roos! YOU THINK ITS SO EASY? WALK AN HOUR IN MY SHOES!  A TAPENADE TWIST!  There's probably all kinds of fun we could have with this recipe! Like maybe switching out the Oregano for fresh Basil or Thyme, adding Sunflower Seeds, Garlic or Anchovies, like the classic recipe calls for! This Recipe is in SWEET POTATO DIARIES SPICY CULTURED VEGETABLES for a HAPPY GUT! (this ain't your mama's recipe either!)  May 8, 2012...Most
of us have become aware of how important good bacteria is to maintain a
healthy gut. While many people may now purchase a probiotic to help in
that area, few consume fermented vegetables or drinks that can truly
make all the difference! So many other cultures still consider these
foods a staple in their diets...but us Americans still have much to
learn! Even the newest research is revealing that gut flora affects how and how much our bodies gain weight! SWEET POTATO DIARIES has this Recipe! SLOW ROASTED CARNITAS in POTATO TORTILLA WRAPS!  MAY 3....I know, Meat and Potatoes, as much as we love 'em together, it would not be considered a perfect Food Combining pair (Ay, Caramba!) ...but these Yummy Tortillas have as much Egg as Potato, yet don't taste 'eggy'! Besides... sometimes you just gotta do whatcha gotta do...and I did it! So, in Celebration of Cinco de Mayo get the Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIRAIES... COME TO MY 60'S STYLE PARTY!  BRING A FRIEND OR TWO & BE THE LUCKY BIRD THAT WINS THIS FUN SHIRT! April 30...Weelll,
it's not necessarily a 60's Style, but that Peace Sign just makes me think
60's....mind you I was barely knee-deep to a Grasshopper at that time :)
but I do know that symbol has spanned decades. It had deep meaning to a generation of Free Spirits who celebrated Hope and Freedom with their Idealistic Hearts; truly much more than images of Dancing Flower Children, Volkswagon Vans, and Funny Smoke Rings we may think of today! Change is fueled by Hope, Need, Knowledge and, unfortunately, often Anger. I think we're getting there as more and more of us become aware of our dependence to a sub-standard 'Food' Supply and the Pharmaceutical Industry. However, it will, by all means, literally take a Movement to Stop the way the train has been rolling! Oh, So Sorry! Did I get off track? This is about a Shirt Giveaway, right? HOW 'BOUT SOME 'CRAFTY' MAC 'N CHEESE TONIGHT?!  'CHEESY' SAUCE on some High Protein SHIRATAKI NOODLES! April 27....Happy Friday!! Since making my not-so-Krafty 'Cheese' Powder in the post below, I've been dying to try a Quick and Easy Pasta to whip up for an after school snack or a Friday night with the babysitter dinner. Or, in our case, this takes the place of the teenage/twenty-somethings bringing home a bag of Ramen Noodles or that Kraft Macaroni stuff (eewww!) because they think they're cooking ! Here's the Quick 'n Easy Recipe...SWEET POTATO DIARIESLOTS of NEW BABY CHICKS and a little FASHION FUNNY!  Hello there My Little Friend! You are looking fine today, except for maybe that feather there... April 24....Chicken gossip, nitpicking and nagging just 'cuz you may dress a little funny. I didn't know chickens could be so heartless! the story's in ...RAMBLINGS OF A COUNTRY GAL HEALTHY CHEETOS POPCORN? HELLO CHEESE FINGERS!  Okay, well I use that word somewhat loosely here, but it's most definitely HEALTHIER! April 19, 2013...So sadly, in my life Cheetos have looong been a distant happy memory... At least until the rare occasion when I'm merely passing by the snack isle in my local market and my arm bolts from my side and, with lightening speed and a mind of its own, grabs a bag! I don't know why it does this! Sometimes the same thing happens with a box of Life cereal or a bag of Oreos! It's a truly amazing phenomenon, because I rarely seem to notice until I'm unpacking the groceries at home! Geeze, I get SOOO disappointed in my arm! And how it gets my hand to cooperate, is beyond me. It's usually the right one (just so you know).... Both arms helped me make this Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES... HAVE YOU HEARD OF A KETOGENICS DIET? April 16, 2013....A friend of mine sent this to me and I think it sounds amazing enough to pass on! If you or a loved one has cancer or epilepsy this is a video you don't want to miss! It's well documented that glucose is the preferred food of cancer cells. It's great to learn that people are getting real results from taking charge of their health! While eating high protein/fat and low carb isn't new, few have used it to battle serious illness! Argentina - A Poster Child for the Health Hazards of GMO Crops 95% of GMO soybean crops in Argentina are EXPORTED worldwide! 
April 12, 2013...Sometimes, okay, most all the time, I am a bit sloooow to attend to my crammed email inbox. So, upon opening this article I saw that it already had a few thousand shares on FB! It's so great how we have the ability to pass information these days! It's just weeding through the truths and untruths that is the biggest caveat. But, hey compared to just a decade ago when we were nothing but sitting ducks being inundated with big advertising campaigns, we're doin' pretty good! So, if you haven't seen this article and video yet, please take a quick read at the link below to see what abomination to nature is occurring! While my family has never eaten soy, which is toxic unless fermented or genetically modified, and I know several generations have grown up on it here in America, soy is just one crop of concern...then there's wheat, corn, canola, rice and so many others at risk! Dr. Mercola writes... Roundup Ready soy is now being cultivated on a massive scale across the globe, along with the exponentially increasing use of the herbicide Roundup. Monsanto's "Roundup Ready" soy beans are genetically modified to survive otherwise lethal doses of glyphosate, the active ingredient in the company's herbicide Roundup. It's a win-win for Monsanto. But it's a loss for just about everyone else. Not to mention a health hazard for the environment, and the animals and humans that eat these crops. Continue reading by clicking on link below: http://everlast.mercola.com/r/?id=h67d9a4b,144fb2c,145de15  It is possible that Cream naturally separates from the milk just for us! Well, c'mon now, WHY Couldn't that be TRUE?! STRAWBERRY SHORTBREADTART  Out this way the Local Farmers are already harvesting some beautiful, Organic Berries... And OF COURSE THE YUMMY SHORTBREAD CRUST IS GRAIN FREE! SEMI-RAW CITRUS MERINGUE BARS  The Easter Bunny will Loooove this Grain and Gluten Free Lemony Citrus Treat made with Healthy Whole Foods! And Your Family will Loooove it too!  SPICES? HOW CAN YOU COOK OR BAKE WITHOUT THEM! I LOVE THE FLAVORS AND AROMAS THEY IMPART WHEN USED AND ENJOY EXPERIMENTING WITH THEM AS WELL. WELL...How would YOU like a chance to win an awesome Spice Set that includes 26 of the most commonly used spices? Cooking Planit., Spices Inc. and Yours Truly are teaming up to provide this great giveaway. THE 26 SPICE SET GIVEAWAY IS HERE! THIS CONTEST IS OPEN TO EVERYONE IN THE U.S.A SEVERAL WAYS TO WIN... SO ENTER NOW!
I am participating with 49 other bloggers in this Giveaway from Cooking Planit. While these spice sets are not certified organic yet, I'm told they will be shortly. There are still other contests running so check out the entire list of participants below for their contest dates. MY CONTEST RUNS TODAY, March 28 - April 3.... I'll announce the winner (randomly chosen through the Rafflecopter program) on April 4th. The more ways through which you participate, the more chances you have to win! The winner will be contacted once chosen and must respond within 48 hours of being notified. The prize will be shipped to the lucky winner by the giveaway sponsor.   HERE'S WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE SPICE SET · Ground Cumin · Basil · Saigon Cinnamon · Bay Leaves · Smoked Paprika · Thyme · Garlic Powder · Mediterranean Oregano · Onion Powder · Rosemary · Nutmeg Powder · Red Pepper Flakes · Coriander Powder · Cayenne Pepper · Ground Cloves · Chinese Five Spice · Turmeric · Curry Powder · Yellow Mustard · Pennsylvania Pepper · Cardamon Powder · Cajun Seasoning · Allspice Powder · Hill Country Chili Powder · Ginger Root Powder· Manzanillo Mexico Seasoning  SPRING HAS SPRUNG IN CALIFORNIA COUNTRY!  March 26, 2013...Doesn't the picture look so peaceful and serene? But Geeeeze, I need more sleeeeep! Birthday Parties, Baby Chickens, lots of Cupcakes, Crazy Dogs and Visitors...and it's just the first week! all in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL! HAVE YOU HAD YOUR EGGS TODAY?  Eggs aren't just for the EASTER BUNNY! March 22, 2013...Miss
Holly is eagerly awaiting her doggie-licious meal of Grain-free dog food (the
one we buy in big bags at Costco has a base of either Salmon or Turkey
and Sweet Potato) topped with our fibrous leftovers from a Green Juice
concoction which we drank earlier today. Add a Raw Egg donated from
our chickens and lastly, a little handful of Raw, Ground Turkey....Woof, Woof, Woof!Holly has seizures when she eats something with wheat in it :( so, years ago all of our lucky 5 dogs (give or take one or two through the years) have been lucky enough to enjoy the benefits of eating the Grain-free variety. Of course, our pocketbook has not benefited! But, that's the price we pay for loooove, right? Why are Eggs one of Nature's most Perfect Foods for Dogs AND Humans? Pleeease find out in SWEET POTATO DIARIES!
MISS AURORA IS OFFICIALLY 1 YR OLD TODAY!  March 20, 2013...Nana Annabelle has been busy Baking Cupcakes All Day for the Big Party on Saturday...'cuz these CUPCAKES freeze beautifully! Would it be shameless to use my granddaughter's birthday to promote my upcoming book?! Probably, but this is my blog : ) 
LUCKY GREEN POTATOES with ROSEMARY!  When your daughter-in-law sends you a text that says 'These potatoes are to die for!' Ya know you did good! March 15...Potatoes
have gotten the cold shoulder by many these days with so much being
said about the benefits of a 'low carb' diet. Mixing them with other
Veggies and Greens lowers the amount you'll eat, but still gives you that delicious creamy taste! If you have a blood sugar problem or a stubborn weight issue, don't eat them every day! Find this recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES
SPRING CLEANING COMING UP!  The Change of Seasons is a Great Time to Feel Rejuvenated and Remind Yourself How You Can Be Your Best Friend or Your Worst Enemy to the Body You Will Live with the Rest of Your LIFE! March 12.... If you're a newbie at fasting and feel like you're going into 'starvation mode', (Oh, such drama!) don't strain those fresh juices! No need for a fancy juicer either...*See My Juicing Video on Using a Blender* Add a banana and make those Green Smoothies to fill your tummy. I always do that on the first day for that reason and for all the fiber to help move things right on out! Whether you're like me (a Gal of Moderation) or you follow a strict dietary path according to your food allergies, or your healing protocol, GAPS, SCD, Primal or Raw...or you're just plain struggling to find the will power and knowledge to GET OFF THE STANDARD AMERICAN DIET, Green Smoothies and Juices will work with all of these! It's a Great jump START to improving your health, simply by adding ONE of these to your day! Pleeeeease read more in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL! A DELICIOUS but CRAZY SECRET RECIPE for HOMEMADE CHERRY KEFIR!  This Homemade Cherry Kefir is like NONE you've ever had before! AND it packs a super nutritious punch! March 8, 2013...It's Easy, Easy! AND no one would ever guess it's made with Cherries, Cucumbers and Zucchini! Kefir means 'Feel Good' in Turkish. It's a delicious, tangy drink, and, much like Yogurt, Kefir brings special strains of Healthy, Beneficial Bacteria and Beneficial Yeasts to our Digestive Systems! Improving our digestion and immunity is vital to our health, especially for those suffering from allergies and illness and living and eating in our modern times. The slightly mucous forming quality coats the digestive system to help your good bacteria flourish! Whip this up tomorrow and you'll enjoy it for Sunday breakfast! The 'Secret' Recipe is in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! MAN DOES NOT BUILD BY MAN ALONE...  It takes his village, his family, his dogs, plenty of beer and...a Good Woman! March 5....Read more in THEN and NOW in Ramblings of a Country Gal CREAMY RAW MARINARA SAUCE with HOMEMADE SPELT PASTA  Spelt is wheat's more water-soluble and easier-to-digest cousin. It makes a great Pasta and Pie Crust, so I keep it in my freezer to use on occasion! March 1 2013....Here's another Quick and Easy way to get your family to enjoy some more Raw Food without them even knowing! It's packed with Whole Food Nutrition and Soooo Deeelicious that no one would suspect it might be good for them!
Try it on a baked Sweet Potato, over Red Potatoes, your favorite Gluten-free Pasta, or my
favorite: Mixed Veggies! Or, if you don't have to eat 100% Gluten Free, and you're feeling a bit adventurous, make the Spelt Pasta! Find this Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES DELICIOUS & EASY SANDWICH BREAD made with all Whole Foods! Low Carb too!
 BEYOND... GLUTEN & GRAIN FREE! IT'S WHOLE FOOD TOO! February 23....This Bread meets all the right criteria: Easy, Quick, Sturdy, Pliable, Mild-Tasting, Healthy AND Delicious! Best of all....it does NOT fall apart! Read more in SWEET POTATO DIARIES PALM SPRINGS DESERT DATE SHAKE REMAKE!  Well, those shakes are waaaay too sweet for me but it got me thinking about a much yummier and good-for-me alternative! And it REALLY IS Delicious! GET MORE 'RAW' IN YOUR DIET THE EASY WAY! START WITH THIS DELICIOUS, QUICK APPLESAUCE RECIPE! OLD-TIMEY CHERRY ALMOND MOUSSE  February 14, 2013.... Just in case y'all are busy out there and runnin' a little low on ideas, thought this would be delicious and a bit out of the norm maybe. Quick and easy, it's a Valentine dessert for you 'Last Minute Lucy's'! I buy a 4 lb. bag of delicious, organic, Dark Cherries for just at my local Costco store, so I always have them on hand and I think you should too! A Whole Food, of course, with lots of nutrients and antioxidants; and lots of uses in my kitchen! IT'S 2013...DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR CANOLA CAME FROM?  In my earlier post about oils I referenced Canola coming from the toxic Rapeseed plant and the use of genetic modification in order to change crops into something else. I recently came across this quick and easy to read info that should remind us all to QUIT buying in to Big Business lies and hype! CHOCOLATE SOUFFLE CUPCAKES for all your SPECIAL VALENTINES!  Could they REALLY be GRAIN-FREE, GLUTEN-FREE and SUPER EASY too?? You Betcha!!! While we were enjoying our champagne, waiting, with childish anticipation for our delectable Souffle, a smiling, stumbling woman made her way to our table. "I know you!" she said as we looked up. WHO could we possibly know in Bermuda?.... Read more and get the yummy recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! DELIGHTFUL BRINED GREEN SLAW  If
you enjoy the healthy benefits and lovely tart flavors from culturing
your own veggies they should be a wonderful, daily addition to your
diet. While
not fermented, my family also enjoys different greens in this
tasty 'brine' because it softens them and gives a nice sweet and
sour taste! Keep it simple or add some colorful
Cabbage, Seeds and Carrots for a brighter, fancier side! Either way,
it's Delicious and Super EASY! Read more about this in SWEET POTATO DIARIES DELICIOUS APPLE PIE with MINI-CINNI TREATS!  GEE, YOU LOOK THWELL!  Okay, so I admit, I don't remember the last time I wore my shorts with boots or Indian print leggings, but other than that I happen to really like some of the mixy-match, carefree style in this catalog! It kinda looks like New Recycle Style to me!
OVEN-STEAMED, GRAIN-FREE GNOCCHI LIKE YOU REMEMBER GRAMMA'S!  Gnocchi has been around for centuries; it's basically an Italian Potato Pasta. The taste and texture of this Grain-free Version will satisfy your toughest critics! Enjoy this recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES!
AURORA HAS NEW TRICKS TO SHOW YOU!  Hi Everybody! Remember me? It's everybody's favorite baby girl (at least around here I am) Aurora! I'm 10 months old now and I wanted to show you all the stuff I've been learning! AND...I have a BIG SURPRISE too! See what it is in MY HONEYPIES FERMENTING VEGGIES in FRESH COCONUT WATER!  Thought I'd share one of my kitchen science experiments today! We now know how damaging it's been for doctors to prescribe Antibiotics without prescibing Probiotics to replenish the flora that keeps our Digestive Systems Healthy. For 60 years (or whenever the inception of antibiotics was) loads of Americans have been living every day with digestive problems ranging from IBS to many more serious issues caused by the over-growth of Yeast and other Opportunistic Organisms. For decades mothers have no longer passed on enough Healthy Bacteria to their babies; resulting.... Keep Reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES FARMHOUSE SPLIT PEA and HERB SOUP  Make it in an hour on the stove top or cook it all day in your slow cooker (my preference). Either/or, it's a great winter meal....Especially served with a nice piece of my rustic Grain-free Bread...recipe coming soon! SWEET POTATO DIARIES has the Recipe!
REAL or IMPOSTER? ARE 'HEALTHIER' SUBSTITUTIONS ALWAYS WORTH IT?  Don't tell me this doesn't look delicious! Would you really miss the noodles? There are some times when I just don't think certain substitutions are worth it. I mean when you're trading an incredible flavor and/or texture for one that is far less appealing, you really have to be committed to your health/diet. If the offending food is something that you eat only on occasion and you're not ill or allergic to it, then I say indulge, enjoy and don't think twice about it! For the Lowdown on some Currently Popular Substitutions go to....SWEET POTATO DIARIES CHEWY, WHOLE FOOD, GRAIN FREE CHOCOLATE WALNUT COOKIES!  Soooo, since we've all been good for 11 days now, I want to remind you that you can keep on being good and still feel like the Naughty Little Gal (or Guy!) we all know you are, and pretend like you're indulging and being bad when you taste these Amazingly Delicious Cookies! Find this easy, yummy recipe in ...SWEET POTATO DIARIES SOUTH of the BORDER POT PIE with a SPELT CRUST! Serve it with Salsa and some Raw Applesauce or a Salad with lots of Avocado, Tomato and Red Onion!  While Spelt is not gluten-free, it is a grain that has not been predominately genetically modified. It is more water-soluble than wheat and easier to digest. It's very easy to bake with, displaying much of the same qualities as wheat. But for you that are (or need to be) 100% gluten-free, please use my Grain-free Pie Crust Recipe found in Bread-like Goods! For this Recipe go to SWEET POTATO DIARIES! YAPPY HEW NEAR!!!  It was just another 'normal' Christmas season for us! If you would like to Read about this Crazy Country Gal's Holiday Season in FAMILY STORIES... You must be a little nutty too! JUST A REMINDER THAT....  in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL
GRAIN-FREE, OVEN-STEAMED RAVIOLI ANYONE? YEP, IT'S QUICK and EASY TOO!  The
word Ravioli probably doesn't say 'Christmas' to you unless you're
Italian like my beautiful daughter-in-law, Charity! But if you're
anything like me, when the weather gets a little chilly, all I want is
Comfort Food, and the only thing better to satisfy a Comfort Food
craving than a plate of pasta, is a plate of Delicious, Grain-free
Raviolis! SERIOUSLY, WHAT IS SOOOOO DAMN FUN ABOUT THIS ANYWAY????  YES! IT'S TRUE! WHOLE-FOOD, GRAIN-FREE, SCRUMPTIOUS, CUT-OUT SUGAR COOKIES!  This is your early Holiday Gift! Now you won't be contributing to Santa's Big Belly when you leave him that plate full of Christmas Cookies! Find the recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES!
LASAGNA...YOUR WAY OR MINE... LAYERED UP WITH HOMEMADE GRAIN-FREE PASTA!  It was a cool and rainy Sunday here yesterday. Just Animal and I were home, alone with a nice little fire, sprawling dogs and...the football game! Ugh...SO.... I decided to whip up a small batch of yummy Lasagne! This 'Pasta' comes together in a jiffy, the Tomato Sauce was blended up in my Blender with 3 Fresh Ingredients, and the Cheese and Meat were ready in minutes....so in no time it was popped in the oven! Keep Reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! WE CALL HIM ... WOLFMAN !  We
have many guests come for both short and long-term stays at our
interesting little 'ranch' here outside of Southern California's 'wine
country'. Alan
came to stay with us a few months ago by way of 'Mission: Wolf', a
non-profit educational program that teaches volunteers to care for
rescued Wolves and Horses. Please read more in ...RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL
THE SKINNY on FATS and OILS!  Now hear this: Eating Fat Does Not MAKE you Fat! All this Low-Fat Garbage that is being Pushed is just another Horrible Blunder of Misguided Mis-Information! Oil is Fat and Fat is generally Good, but some Fats are better than others and also are better used and consumed in certain ways. I actually don't use much oil to cook with and most of My Baked Goods just don't require the addition of it because the Whole Foods I use bring with them their own delicious oils! Continue reading in ABOUT WHEAT-DAIRY-OILS-SUGAR CHERRY CRANBERRIES with just a little PORT WINE  The Big Day is almost here and you won't want to miss a Great Cranberry Sauce so get this Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! SIMMERED BRUSSEL SPROUTS with BACON and TARRAGON  Okay, that's Enough! Stop acting like...well, don't make me say it! You know who you are! You're the ones who are sayin' "Eeeeww! I HATE those Baby-Cabbage-Lookin'-Thingies!" I guarantee you and any other 'haters' you may know, will be won over once you taste Brussel Sprouts prepared like this! Get the Simple Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! WHOLE FOOD CORNBREAD...MAKE PLENTY FOR YOUR THANKSGIVING STUFFING TOO!  Masa Harina, Almonds, Coconut, Apples and Sweet Potato?! Whaaat?? Mmm-hmm...That's what I'm talkin' about! Gotta taste it to Believe it! Check it out in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! HAPPY WEDNESDAY! I HAVE ANOTHER SHIRT GIVE AWAY FOR Y'ALL!  Read about this shirt in CONTESTS n' GIVEAWAYS and go to my Facebook page CalCountryGal and tell me why you think this shirt belongs to you! PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE with EGGNOG CREAM and SWEET DRIED CRANBERRIES!  November 12...This year why not try something a little bit different yet just as easy to whip up as your typical Pumpkin Pie? The Eggnog Cream is Delicious and spiked with a touch of Port Wine, the Dried Cranberries keep those Raw Enzymes in tact to help you digest that Big Holiday Meal! Give this one a go in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! GETTIN' READY FOR AN AMAZING, WHOLE FOOD THANKSGIVING with a GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE!  I've
been Remaking Traditional Holiday Fare into Delicious, Healthy Dishes
for years now, often changing it up because I never seem to be satisfied.
But we all know that could go on forever! So, it's time I just put some
of these recipes down and let you taste how good they are AND how EASY
they are to make! This one's in SWEET POTATO DIARIES...and it's AWESOME! WE HAVE A NEW FIGHT ON OUR HANDS and YOU SHOULD BE MAD AS HELL!  CALIFORNIA'S PROP 37 SHOT DOWN BY MILLION DOLLAR AD CAMPAIGNS PAID FOR BY BIOTECH GIANTS! SO DELICIOSO! ALBONDIGAS (mEATball) SOUP!  Nothin' like a warm bowl of soup on a cool Fall evening! Full of Veggies, Hominy, Avocados and a yummy Meatball recipe! Find it all in SWEET POTATO DIARIES This simple statement truly puts a lot into perspective, don't ya think?  As
our Nation gears up for the November 6th Election, Californians have a
proposition on the table (literally) that will affect the food supply
and our RIGHT TO KNOW what is in our 'food' for millions of Americans. If Proposition 37 Does Not Pass, it will be A DIRE DAY FOR OUT COUNTRY! For years Big Business has been hiding, sneaking, confusing and mislabeling products. For years Genetically Modified Organisms have been in our livestock, food supply and seeds and cross-contaminating crops... without telling us and without adequate safety testing! Corruption at the highest level has allowed this crime against nature and humankind. No one truly knows the harm that has already been done. If you are a California Resident, PLEASE VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 37! Our RIGHT TO KNOW what we are buying and consuming is Paramount to Mankind's Health, Well-being and Longevity! THERE IS NO DEBATE! HAPPY HALLOWEEEN EVERYBODY!!  DO YOU LIKE MY COSTUME? HEY, I'M JUST SAYIN'... IF YA GOT IT, FLAUNT IT!  PHOTOGRAPH BY HALETA HOLMES
Dang it! How come you aren't listening to me Ma?! Don't you understand?!! LOVE AT FIRST BITE! WHOLE FOOD, VANILLA VAMPIRE CUPCAKES!  I wish I could take credit for the adorable Vampire Tooth idea but I saw this awhile back in a picture and thought it was too cute to forget! What I think you'll find unforgettable is the ABSOLUTE DELICOUS-NESS of these WHOLE FOOD CUPCAKES! The Yummy Recipe is in SWEET POTATO DIARIES!
I AM MAN! TODAY I TEACH MY SONS TO BUILD!  Today we are building our concrete wall my sons! But we haven't eaten for an hour! And we're thirsty! Who has the Evian or Perrier? Down goes the foundation and up goes the block wall. Next, the walls! Read more in Then & Now... in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL!
WHY YOU DIRTY LITTLE CUPCAKE...... I... OUGHTA... EATCHA!  For those of you who don't want to eat a 'Dirty' Cupcake, these are also known as Chocolate Harvest Cupcakes! Easy to make and your Ghouls will never guess they're full of essential nutrients! Find the Secret Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES....
BOOOOTIFUL, WORMY, SWAMP-THANG CUPCAKES with SWEET BASIL FROSTING!  What can I say about these Swampy Cupcakes other than they are Mean and Green, made of Whole Foods and Amazingly Delicious! You and your Goblins will gobble up these Grain-free Yummies and beg for more! Find the Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! BEASTS? CREATURES? WHERE?  Mysterious guests arrive at dusk, causing commotion and unease in the corral! Read the Funny details in ANIMAL CRITTERS! WHY, OH WHY DO I LOVE RAINBOWS!?  HAVE YOU EVER HAD ONE OF THOSE 'HUSBAND DAYS'!
Where you just wanna ask him really sweetly if he could just take a long hike off that short mountain? Or a loong surf on that short wave?? Or maybe even a really looooong vacation! Never Mind That! I'm the one who needs the vacation! Read more in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL AIN'T NOBODY'S BUSINESS (the recipe that is) PUN'KIN PIE in a GINGER BUCKWHEAT CRUST!  BUCKWHEAT IS NOT WHEAT AND IS GLUTEN-FREE! Just thought I should get that out there right away since it's not in the title! Buckwheat is the seed of an herb plant related to Rhubarb. Continue Reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES IZZY 'N AURORA...A BEGGIN' TEAM WHO COULD SAY NO TO THESE EYES!  WHO NEEDS WHIPPED CREAM ANYWAY?  STINKIN' GOOD SWEET 'TATER PIE on a HONEY SPELT CRUST! How do Sweet Potato Pie and Pumpkin Pie differ? Oh, let us count the ways! Continue reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES SPRUCIN' UP MY FALL CLOSET WITH CUTE 'RECYCLED SWEATERS'!  I've been planning to do this little 'Mixy-Matchy' post for awhile now, to give some encouragement to those of you who may be kinda 'cotton-country' and a bit 'off ' on the fashion scale like me! You can read more in RECYCLE STYLE SHARIN' THE BANANA BREAD LOOOVE THROUGH BLUE'S EYES!  Is that Warm, Delicious 'n Healthy Nanner Bread for me Mama? Why Blue's brief Love Story has a sad ending in Furry Friends MY HONEYPIES BOO HOO! WHY ARE THESE WHOLE-FOOD, GRAIN-FREE CUPCAKES SO SAD?  Ahh, Hello All! Well, I'm thinking right now, as I write. Do I really want to post this recipe right now? Hmmmm. Still thinking. Hmmm... Is the Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES?? DUMPIN'THE JUNK! IN YOUR CLOSETS, YOUR HEAD AND YOUR BLOODSTREAM!  Is 'FASTING' a Dirty Word in your house, or just misunderstood? Remember...it's NOT ABOUT BEING PERFECT! If you breakdown and have a bite of that egg salad sandwich or chocolate chip cookie IT'S NOT GOING TO RUIN EVERYTHING AND MAKE YOU A LOSER WITH NO WILL POWER! Besides, I doubt anyone actually SAW you do it! Just keep on going, get back on the horse and go on! Read more in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL
WHOLE FOOD, GRAIN-FREE BANANA BREAD FOR YOU AND ALL YOUR MONKEYS!  Mama always said 'Gal, never trust a man who doesn't like Banana Bread!' So, give him a warm, homemade slice he can't resist and only you'll know how good it is for him! Find my Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES WHAT DO MARSHMALLOWS AND HAIR MODELS HAVE TO DO WITH THIS BLOG?  Our 3rd born son, Jake became an old man the other day by hitting the milestone birthday of 25! Truly, I know it's impossible because I, myself am barely older than that!... but miracles do happen, ya know! Read about it in Jacob Taylor in MY HONEYPIES DO YOU HAVE A LITTLE FILTHY FARMGIRL IN YOUR BATHROOM?  You may remember from an earlier post that we sometimes have happy, but rather strange couples contact us about exchanging their wedding vows on our little, dusty piece of property we call home. I say that with affection, as they obviously can't be as strange as the family who actually lives here! ...
Pleeese keep Reading in RECYCLE STYLE! AND THEN HE CREATED CINNAMON ROLLS and MAN'S BEST FRIEND...  Now, the story of these Whole Food, Grain-free Cinnamon Rolls and Woman's Best Taste Tester! Read about it in SWEET POTATO DIARIES REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES TOO...  SEPTEMBER 11... Our oldest son, Joshua, at his stomping grounds circa 1984.... complete with his 'Michael Jackson Pose'. Having spent 9 years in NYC, most of them living in a 25th floor apartment across the street from the Twin Towers, September 11th is always a very emotional and heartfelt day for us. We awoke that morning 3,000 miles away and yet, like so many of you, still feel the devastation like it was yesterday. Bless all who experienced that day firsthand. I NEED MY OWN BATHROOM...EVEN IF I GOTTA BUILD IT MYSELF!  Sharing my bathroom in the country with 4 of the male species, even if they were related...was starting to make our old outhouse on the property look good to me! All it needed was a mirror! Read more in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL DREAMY, SEMI-RAW PEACHES n' CREAM PIE!  So, while we're on the subject of pies (pizza, chocolate cream..seems I've been posting lotsa pies lately!) and before summer comes to a close I hope you'll have the chance to give this one a try! Use my favorite 'Grain-free' Crust or make it a 'Raw' Nut Crust! I must admit Cashews are not my favorite nut, but THIS recipe.... Continue reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES CARMELIZED ONION & FIG PIZZA with FIELD GREENS on a GRAIN-FREE, STARCH-FREE CRUST  OH YES IT IS! REESE'S PIECES PIE and MY 'WHOLE FOOD' & GRAIN-FREE PIE CRUST!  DID SOMEONE SAY REESE'S PIECES PIE with HEALTH BENEFITS? Would you believe it's almost as quick and easy to make your own delicious Grain-Free, no flour pie crust? The recipe is in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! COULD SHE BE CIRCUS BOUND with THESE TOES?  It was just Another Crazy Day ! Find out other 'goings on' involving Grain-free Cinnamon Rolls and Rattlesnakes!
LOOK MA...NO GRAINS in THESE HERE WAFFLES!  It doesn't get much better than a late, lazy Sunday breakfast with the scent of almost cooked waffle batter drifting through the air... unless it's super yummy and grain-free too! This recipe's in SWEET POTATO DIARIES MY DELICIOUS, WHOLE FOOD, GRAIN FREE COCONUT CAKE!  Find my unique recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES... SOME OF US ARE JUST A LITTLE AHEAD OF THE FASHION CURVE!  Maybe we were just behind the door when the fashion sense was handed out! Or maybe we just like to dress this way, okay? More in Fashion Don'ts in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL BOOKS THAT MAY MAKE YOUR BRAIN EXPLODE!  While I really love learning new things, sometimes I think my brain cells might just get overloaded and explode, leaving my poor little brain a mere bowl of mush. Actually, come to think of it.... Continue reading in REBUILDING YOUR HEALTH WHO'S JERRY? JERRY WHO? AND DOES HE HAVE SEXY LEGS?  Hmmm, Jerry must be the busy boss-for-the-day guy in the sunglasses with his arms crossed! So glad to see for once it's not me! I'll bet most of you are a lot like us when it comes to making the best out of what we've got around here...or in life for that matter! Continue reading in ANOTHER CRAZY DAY...in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL FOR ALL THE LOW CARB PEEPS HERE IS MY STARCH-FREE PIZZA CRUST GIFT TO YOU!  I love potatoes, and I personally happen to think they're good for you in moderation, but I also know there's a lot of you that have been going real low carb and the potatoes are a no-no, so this is my gift to all of you! Recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES PIZZA! QUICK 'n EASY with a PERFECTLY DELICIOUS GRAIN-FREE CRUST!  Well, at least the CRUST and the SAUCE are HEALTHY and taste
Soooo Gooood you can even cut waaay back on the Mozzarella! The Naughty Toppings are Your Choice! Find the recipe in SWEET POTATO DIARIES! THIS IS NOT MY TRUCK! If anything here offends you, I apologize, but again THIS IS NOT MY TRUCK! This truck belongs to Clifford, the unassuming young man who is pictured below standing beside his fine work of art.  Over the weekend Animal and I had a brief and strange encounter with a 'neighbor', or should I say a brief and neighborly encounter with a stranger? Or maybe a brief encounter with a strange neighbor would best describe it! Curious to take a peek? The whole story is in ANOTHER CRAZY DAY GRAIN-FREE COCONUT WALNUT BLONDIES!  Do y'all like Blondies? They're most popular around here served warm with a scoop of homemade Butter Pecan Ice Cream on top! Or frozen...so they're real firm and chewy. No one needs to know they're packed with nutrition except you! Recipe found in SWEET POTATO DIARIES DARN NEAR PERFECT POTATO SANDWICH BUNS! QUICK, EASY AND GRAIN-FREE!  One bright and sunny BB (that's 'Before Blogging') day, I decided to tackle the very challenging task of making some sandwich/hamburger buns without using the typical gluten-free flours or added starches that have been extracted from their original source and are soooo bad for our bodies. Now, I realize all you Paleo-types and SCD peeps may poopoo the potato thing, but I happen to looove potatoes and I don't believe all carbs can be treated as equal because they are different and they digest different! Just don't over-eat them... Keep reading in SWEET POTATO DIARIES
SEMI-RAW SPINACH 'N ARTICHOKE DIP...SOOO GOOD! 
JUST WHEN WE THOUGHT WE HAD CREATIVE MINDS...  Read more 'bout why I like signs in RAMBLINGS of a COUNTRY GAL
MY FREEZE-DRIED 'HEART BEETS' FOR YOU !  WHAT HAPPENS TO GREMLINS THAT EAT PILLOWS?  HOLLY, HOLLY, HOLLY..YOU'RE SO DARN CUTE!  WHAT? SOUP IN THE MIDDLE OF SUMMER?  July 11...YOU BET! An Easy Blender Recipe that's GreatWarm or Cold! Recipe is in SWEET POTATO DIARIES...
BITTERSWEET DAYS, SMOOTHIES and GRAINFREE ICE CREAM SANDWICHES....  Never lose sight of your HOPE and FAITH even when they may only be just a pinhole! see Family Stories in MY HONEYPIES SECRETS TO BALANCE & USING THE 80/20 PRINCIPLES FOR LIFE  Great Ideas to help you achieve Balance in your Life for Optimum Health and Wellbeing! go to 80-20 Principles & Balance in REBUILDING your HEALTH
EASY, SEMI-RAW, GRAIN-FREE DOGGIE BISCUITS!  Honey overseeing 'her' Valley! see Critter Grub in SWEET POTATO DIARIES for Honey Bear's Biscuit Recipe AND THEN THERE WERE 'SUPER FOODS'...  Could the latest age-defying discovery be found right in your own backyard? read more in Food For Thought in REBUILDING YOUR HEALTH U MUST TRY MY AAAHHSOME GRAIN-FREE BROWNIES! 
THE BUNNY THAT LAID AN EGG!  WHAT EXACTLY DOES 'WHOLE FOOD' MEAN ANYWAY?  The book "Addict Nation," by TV Host Jane Velez-Mitchell offers a view into our world from her unique perspective as a recovering addict. 
CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES the DELICIOUS, CHEWY, GRAIN-FREE WAY! and the Creative Photographer wanted Cookies n' Milk 'his way'!  MORE RECENT POSTS
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 BUSY LITTLE IZZY
 Honey Bear's Point of View  Miss Meila  Scooby Dooby Doo  Photo of Blue by Scott Lawrence  Ellie  Ollie and Raife  Sadie Girl  Bart aka Blackie  Sweet Holly  Mr Vigo  I'M A SPICER TOO!  |
I'm Annabelle, a quirky homemaker just tryin' to carve out my little piece o' sunshine in the California countryside. Botox and tofu are scarce in these parts. Besides, Mom always said "Tofu is a lot like life, you never know when it's gonna make you barf!"
