By Barb Nicoletti - One of frustrating things I encounter as a mom is knowing that when we go to a party, most likely there will not be anything for my food allergic children to eat.  Time after time we have attended a function and the only food that was safe for them to eat was a bag of potato chips.  Like most food allergic mom’s I learn to plan ahead.  Packing drinks, sandwiches, snacks and even more snacks just in case I am running late ... This year my daughter entered kindergarten.  This meant a new school and new food challenges that came along with her becoming a big girl.  So when I was asked to be part of this years Halloween Party committee, how could I refuse ...

Register for our free e-newsletter and your chance to win a gift package full of Sjaak's organic chocolate! This month, one lucky winner will be chosen at random to receive an assortment of vegan chocolates valued at over $50.  In the production of their fine chocolates, Sjaak's uses non-gmo, organic ingredients and supports fair trade practices.  Plus, their wide selection of dairy-free and vegan chocolates is unsurpassed ...

The month of October may be drawing to a close, but vegan bloggers are just getting warmed up.  With ovens preheated, they are churning out delicious desserts that showcase the warm fruits and vegetables of the fall harvest with a festive flare for the holiday season upon us.  Whether you need a last minute dessert for tonight's Halloween party, or you are planning for the events to come, this post is sure to suggest some delights.  Don't think dairy-free / egg-free sweets are your thing?  I might take a quick peek at the Cranberry Upside Down Cake and the Chocolate Pumpkin Pie before you make up your mind ...

Jackie at The Vegan Diet shares the virtues of those jack-o-lantern pumpkin seeds, some wonderful recipes, and great vegan Halloween links! - Halloween will be here in a few days and Jack O Lanterns will need to be made. Do not throw the pumpkin seeds away as they are as healthy and nutritious.  Pumpkin seeds contain a very good supply of phosphorous, magnesium and tryptophan with a good supply of vitamin K, iron, copper, zinc and unsaturated fatty acids. They are also a good protein and fiber source.

Stumped by special diet needs?  Tired of promoting tooth decay? Last week I came across this wonderful website called Green Halloween. Started by a mom in the state of Washington, this new idea seeks to promote healthier alternatives for kids at Halloween. Sponsored by big names like Whole Foods, this little movement is in its inaugural year.  The website has tips for hosting a kids’ Halloween party, and several suggestions for “tricks and treasures.” Really, it hadn’t occurred to me to hand out non-candy treats, but some of the ideas are pretty good...