I know, we are coming to the end of "cool and creamy" season.  However, when I read that sales of smoothies have escalated in recent years, I couldn't pass up this newsworthy opportunity to share some fruit smoothie tidbits and recipes.  Frankly, I will sit at my desk, wrapped up in a blanket (quite literally) spooning an ice cold beverage or dessert in the dead of winter.  For some reason those cravings never seem to subside, even when my hands are colder than the food itself!  So crank up the heat and enjoy ...

Julie, Parenting Children with Special Needs Blog - Are you challenged by desserts because of your child’s special diet? Me, too. Last year I made a milkless, eggless cake. And while it was “ok” – it truly wasn’t that yummy and no one, except the birthday girl, was interested in eating it. So I decided to try something else. LuLu, my daughter, and I concocted [dairy-free] cups of dirt to share with her friends for her birthday. You may be familiar with this, but if not…it’s a good party idea... [Read more for the recipe]

Dr. David Dahlman, medical director of the Hyde Park Holistic Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, has developed a comprehensive program targeting Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).  His recommendations are geared toward elimating or greatly reducing IBS symptoms via a natural approach.  He addresses the various causes of IBS and introduces "The Three Big Dietary Rules," which include:

Figs... the forgotten fruit.  Did you know that these little gems are a powerhouse of calcium, potassium, and fiber?  A serving consists of just 1/4 cup (40 grams) or 3 to 4 dried figs, but within this portion lies 20% of the RDA for fiber, 244mg of potassium, and 53mg of calcium!  Believe it or not, figs house more dietary fiber per serving than any other common dried or fresh fruit.  Of course, there are other important reasons we love figs.  First off, they taste great!  Second, they are excellent in recipes...

(Vegan, Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Gluten-Free, Nut-Free, Soy-Free) - What better way to enjoy the abundant fall harvest than with this rich and warming soup from Tinned Tomatoes.  Combining three Vitamin A superpowers, this creamy blend of butternut squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes is spiked with equally alluring spices.  View This Recipe / View All Recipes