Winter Warmth

Outdoor skating at quiet waters in Annapolis, so fun, but what an appetite these kids worked up ...we have been all about beans this trip so far. I think it is just easy to make a bunch of vegetables and some form of taco and let the kids pick and choose...tonight they had black and navy bean tacos with sauteed vegetables on the side. Last night it was refrieds with soft corn tortillas and cauliflower and carrots. When resorting to canned beans, Eden seems to remain the only brand that continues to not have any BPA in its linings. But, still fresh or dried is best and Cayuga Organics in New York is a good bet for variety and availability if you prefer more local. Otherwise, Shiloh Farms and Whole Foods among other brands offer a variety of dried beans.

If any sugar comes our way on Christmas, warming up to the holiday with a full shebang of fiber can't hurt. Fiber is imperative in maintaining a healthy blood sugar and 'tis the season to watch out for those heavy desserts and flour filled meals that just might come your way. Also, fiber equals full. Not that many of us don't eat when we are full, but fiber makes you really, really full and can help you curb the overeating of empty calories that for many an American equals Christmas.

Our kids' empty calorie Christmas treat is going to be vegan and gluten free. Just good old fashioned Rice Crispy treats using both Ewewhon Crisp Brown Rice and Nature's Path Crispy Rice, organic marshmallows (not that they are good for you, organic or not but you can find them vegan and without food coloring, etc.), a touch of Earth Balance soy-free buttery spread and a touch of coconut oil...This gives our kids a solid flourless option that tastes great...yum.

Our adults' Christmas treat is going to be Zia's lemon chiffon raw vegan delicious dessert. It is coconut based with almond as well so extremely decadent but I will cut it small...