Gluten Free Motherhood

Pull Apart Cupcake Tree with Owl Cake Pops

2012-02-18T14:00:00.000-08:00

This is Gilead's birthday cake this year. He's in love with Arnold Lobel's "Owl at Home" and therefore wanted an owl cake. This isn't exactly an owl cake, but he likes it, anyway. I'll have to add some pictures of him with it after we've "done cake" later today.

The tree is constructed of cupcakes. My first "pull-apart" cake. We nearly had a crisis when I discovered that my good leaf tip had been lost in one of our many moves. However, a drop flower tip did a decent job. I still plan on replacing that tip, though!

I used one batch each of Bob's Red Mill's chocolate and vanilla cake mixes for the cupcakes and a double batch of Wilton's buttercream icing. The "fruit" in the tree is runts, the owl's are cake pops. I did it the "old fashioned" way by mixing cake crumbs with frosting and forming balls. I "glued" chocolate chips to those balls with melted chocolate, and once that had dried dipped the whole thing in melted chocolate. The eyes are from candy necklaces, the noses are cut out pieces of candy corns, and the feet are star sprinkles.

There were some extra owl cake pops, so the kids got to sample them. They heartily approved.

Happy 2nd birthday, little man!

Nap Nanny Chill Review

2012-02-09T13:16:00.000-08:00

All of my babies have been "reflux babies." The first two were diagnosed with GERD and medicated to keep the misery at a minimum. Therefore, when I was expecting Abel I started looking into options for placing him at a 30 degree angle to minimize the mess and increase his comfort. I have a friend who purchased a Nap Nanny for her daughter, and loved it. My interest was piqued.

The Nap Nanny was created by Leslie, a mom whose daughter wouldn't sleep when lying flat. She made the same observation that I'm sure most of us have, "There were plenty of wedges on the market, but inevitably the baby rolled down to the flat part of the mattress, or it just plain didn't work." The solution? "Something shaped like a car seat would hold the baby in place, and even better, could be used on every floor of the house."

I was thrilled when the Nap Nanny company agreed to send me a Nap Nanny Chill for review. As it turns out, Abel does, indeed have reflux. And after my c-section and his rough start in the NICU, followed immediately by a move across state and a new job for my husband, we were ready for some much needed rest. Shortly after we moved, our Nap Nanny Chill with a sage minky dot cover arrived.

When placed in his new Nap Nanny Abel immediately smiled. Score! I began using it the next nap.

The harness is securely attached to the base of the Nap Nanny.

The minky fabric is wonderfully soft--and it matches ALL of our nursery decor!

My one concern, if you will, regarding the Nap Nanny was the fact that it is designed to mimic a car seat. None of my babies have slept in the car seat willingly. However, for those of you who may have the same concern, let me assure you that it isn't a problem at all! The Nap Nanny apparently takes the comfy aspects of the car seat concept and eliminates the ones my babies have found so unappealing. Abel sleeps beautifully in his Nap Nanny, and it's rare that he does any fussing before falling asleep.

I swaddle him. Buckle him. He smiles. He sleeps.

Seriously. That's the way it works. I'm in love.

Almost as soon as Abel began sleeping in the Nap Nanny Chill the need for washing his bedding daily disappeared. As did the need to change his pajamas two to three times a night. When laid flat, he would inevitably soak everything within a one foot radius. When sleeping at the 30 degree angle the Nap Nanny provides, the problem disappears. We couldn't be happier.

My older two also love the fact that the Nap Nanny can double as a toddler recliner. However, since their brother is sleeping in it 3-4 times a day and at night, they don't get many opportunities to take advantage of that. When they do, they're pretty happy campers!

Mercy, 3.5 years.

Gilead, 23 months. A non-intuitive position, but he thinks its comfy!

I'd recommend the Nap Nanny to anyone needing a sleep solution for a refluxy baby--or any baby for that matter. It's easy to use, effective, portable, and will serve your child through the toddler years. Head on over to the Nap Nanny site to check out all of their great colors and fabrics and read even more about the benefits of the Nap Nanny Chill.

*I was sent one Nap Nanny Chill for review purposes. I was not compensated for this post in any way. All opinions stated are my own.

Gluten Free Glazed Donuts

2012-01-30T18:44:00.000-08:00

I've made plenty of mention of my love of Healthy Bread in Five Minutes a Day. The gluten free chapter saves me large quantities of time. I haven't made much of the gluten free brioche much, but we've really enjoyed it when I have. After all, what wouldn't be delicious about a dough with those quantities of milk and honey?

Then, I was flipping through the chapter with pastries and noticed one for chai spiced donuts. It said you could use the brioche dough for it. Since I was using the gluten-free version I wasn't able to roll them out, so I just dropped dough into the oil by the tablespoonful.

They fried up beautifully.

Then I dipped them in glaze and used some leftover Christmas sprinkles on them.

There's only one donut in the picture because I couldn't fry them up fast enough for five donut-eaters.

You know those moments when you make something you think is going to be really special and your children reject it? This was not one of those moments.

"Please, sir, may I have some more?"

It is decidedly dangerous to have a bucket of beautiful donut dough just sitting in the refrigerator waiting to be fried up. We could eat donuts daily this week. Very, very bad for the waistline. But I'm thinking it just might be worth it...

BabyBond Nursing Cover Review and Giveaway!

2012-01-17T13:32:00.000-08:00

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

I think every nursing mom has struggled with trying to cover up appropriately while nursing in public. Once babies are old enough to be social, they simply don't like to be covered up any longer. Let's face it, nobody wants to fight their baby, an apron-style nursing cover (or blanket), and all for the entertainment of the public!

Enter the BabyBond nursing cover, winner of the iParenting Media Award. Missy, the designer of the BabyBond, envisioned a nursing cover that would "cover mom, but not her baby." From BabyBond:

Mom is able to maintain her modesty. Baby remains uncovered benefiting from the infinite opportunity to maintain eye contact, interact, and communicate. After all, dining is social.

I couldn't have said it any better. BabyBond is designed for "nursing and conversing." Abel is just now, at four months, starting to really interact with me during feeding time. I love the eye contact and flirting! The BabyBond allows him to continue being his cute, social self while also getting the job of eating done.

The BabyBond nursing cover comes in three styles, original, flex, and couture.

For the purposes of my review, I chose the couture. The couture allows you nurse from both the top and the bottom of your shirt, and I don't have many shirts that allow me to nurse from the top, so the couture made the most sense.

I obviously can't nurse from the top of this turtleneck, but you can see how very un-cumbersome the BabyBond is.

Worn as a belly band for nursing from the bottom.

You can just see it peeking out from the bottom of my shirt.

BabyBond features informative, easy to follow instructional videos, which made getting started with the couture a breeze.

Each style of the BabyBond nursing cover retails for $35, and BabyBond is offering readers of Gluten Free Motherhood a 25% discount for using the code "GLUTEN" at checkout. If you've been struggling with the "nursing in public" dilemma, this is definitely worth taking advantage of.

BabyBond has also generously offered to give a BabyBond nursing cover in the style of choice to one of Gluten Free Motherhood's readers. Just enter via the simple Rafflecopter entry form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Gluten Free Gingerbread House

2011-12-24T16:41:00.000-08:00

My husband and I both made it to adulthood having never made a gingerbread house. In my gluten-filled childhood I made a few of the graham cracker ones, but never the real deal. This year I decided we'd give it a go. Aside from a near crisis when the roof broke, it went well. And the royal icing worked terrifically for gluing the roof piece back together.

Here are photos of the whole process...

Baking

Gluing

Propping

Icing

You can see where I had to glue the roof together on that right side...

An enthusiastic helper.

I worked on it during naptime.

When the kids got up they got to help.

Their favorite part was the eating...

Mercy liked helping with the icing.

After she helped.

The back.

All done!

Christmas Letter 2011

2011-12-22T17:30:00.000-08:00

This is our family Christmas letter for 2011. Yes, it is long, but so much has happened in the past two years. Bear with us and read it to learn more about the journey our family has been on.

Dear friends and family,

Skipping a Christmas letter for a year doesn’t mean nothing happened. It means too much happened. Life was so unstable for so long, we had no context clear enough, no frame of reference solid enough to clearly understand all that was happening to us, let alone explain it to others. We are not unchanged. You can still recognize us, but broach the right subjects or catch us with our Bibles open and you’ll learn God has gripped us tightly since last we wrote, changing our outlook on many things – fundamental things, life-altering things. As our family marches toward the Advent of the Christ Child, we not only celebrate Christ’s birth, but the renewing of our hearts and minds in Christ.

Our lives since our last letter have been a series of trimesters. The first – the winter of 2009/2010 – brought us our second child. Gilead, who is now 22 months, is as much all-boy as his older sister is all-girl. He smiles quickly for the camera, plays the drums on everything, and loves his sister more than she realizes.

The second trimester saw the end of an era: grad school ended in May, less than two weeks before Mercy’s second birthday, and without pausing for breath, the fulltime job search began. But a hundred applications and half a dozen interviews later, there were no prospects, and we knew we had to leave Idaho.

The third trimester brought us to the Portland metro area, where we house-sat for friends who were away on a three month overseas business trip. We went to church with old friends, gave Mercy her first haircut, watched Gilead grow, and applied for fifty more jobs. Interviews came quickly, filled with promise, with opportunities to put down roots in Salem, Tri-Cities, and Boise. And as quickly as the interviews came, they stopped. Our friends returned from their trip, and due to the terms of their lease, they were unable to host us any longer.

We were adrift. Friends quickly showered us with offers of hospitality, and food stamps would keep our plates from being empty, but as we boxed up our possessions and put even more of our belongings into storage, we slowly realized – as if in birth pangs – that we had become something new: homeless.

The first trimester of this new life was by far the most difficult. Our mailing address was the home of friends living just outside the Portland metro area, but between Christmas and a pair of out-of-town interviews, we were never anywhere for more than two weeks at a time. The interviews came from networking contacts, not from the job boards which had gone dry, or from cold-calls which had proved fruitless, and when those interviews brought the end of our job search skin-close before casting it away, we lost hope. We thought about returning to school to try a new field. We thought about joining the military. And then, after reducing ourselves to what could fit in the trunks of our cars and changing our address one more time, there was a phone call.

It was a full-time staff accountant position, with full benefits and a good salary. And so the next trimester brought us to Silverton: ten minutes from work, twenty minutes from Salem, and forty minutes from church. We signed a lease for a three bedroom duplex with a garage and a fenced backyard. We fell in love with the town and established routines. Work was difficult but rewarding.

The first week of work was euphoric, a waking dream. The second week turned darker as the demands of the job weighed down heavily upon the thin foundation laid even by graduate school. The third week was a night-time storm with no coming sunrise and no moonlit breaks in the clouds. The CFO had underestimated the requirements of the job. The accounting manager couldn’t relate to someone with a degree. The open channels of communication so highly valued by the company were closed. We never heard them coming. Less than four weeks after the job was offered, it was taken away.

We wept. And we could do nothing but return to those same empty job boards and fruitless phone calls. Again, friends quickly came to our aid. Though we had no need of shelter, we were in desperate need of cash, and it was here, after hard work, natural talents, the free market, and every tenant of the so-called American Dream had failed us, that we realized the painful, glorious, agonizing, precious truth: it was all Grace.

The third trimester of this second life began with the realization that we were receiving that for which we had prayed, daily, since before we knew one another existed. We wanted to love our neighbors. We wanted to understand love. We wanted to know the roots of compassion. We wanted to be free of every preconceived notion standing as a barrier between us and the poor, the lonely, the downcast, and those who – as Bonheoffer put it – are gripped tight by God. And so God gripped us. We could feel His fingers cracking our ribs, and yet we knew we would never be dropped, could not hope to be dropped. We cried out daily and yet there was joy. It was not the joy found in pleasure. It was joy such as C.S. Lewis describes in Surprised by Joy: an overwhelming desire to reach for something wonderful that can only be held for moments at a time, something so wonderful that gravitas trumps giddiness. We could taste Grace in the air.

We were not lifted out of our troubles at this point. But we were given the strength to carry an even larger, more glorious burden. By this point we were well into expecting our third child, due in September. And by this point, Amber’s mother was unable to return to work because of old injuries that recent surgery failed to completely heal. Jan put her house on the market, and she and all that she had were welcomed into our home, for however long we could be in it. There was still no work – not even at Safeway or McDonald’s – but checks continued to come in the mail, some from dear friends, some from friends of friends who had never met us, all of them beloved of Christ. Our third child would be due soon, though we didn’t know what house or city or state he would be raised in, only that he would be ours, and we would do everything we could to teach him and his siblings how to live in God’s good grip.

The only solid job lead at the time came from a friend – a member of Jan’s old church and a partner of a small CPA firm on the other side of the state. An interview followed, and yet, after so many that had seemed so promising, hope was only a background hum, faith only a penlight in the night.

But there was Abel. He was born September 7^th, angry at the disturbance, but beautiful. He brought the facial features of distant relatives back into the gene pool, and he was the most tangible act of Grace we had received since the birth of his brother. Less than two days later he was taken by ambulance to a neo-natal ICU in downtown Portland for a breathing problem. The next day, after Abel had stabilized, after we were told the problem would resolve itself after a few days, after a night yielding only three and half hours of intermittent sleep, the cell phone rang.

We were born again.

The job was a full-time staff accountant position with a small but well-respected CPA firm in the very place from which we had just moved Jan. The irony of moving into Jan’s old house did not escape us. It was a strange time, almost a dream-like state as we once again packed up everything we owned, this time mixing Jan’s possessions with our own, moving into a house already familiar, to an area well-traveled on numerous trips, to a church who knew us as frequent visitors, and to a job that seemed too good to be true.

But it was true. And so we start this new life as children slowly waking. We remind ourselves daily of where we have been so we can better understand where we are. We remind ourselves that God’s grip – though sometimes painful – is nevertheless His. We approach Christmas with the lead-footed fear of children frightened by the sudden booming laughter of their parents. We are awestruck by the lowliness of the Christ-child, that He suffered as we have so that he may lead us through suffering. How many kings would do such a thing?

As we walk toward Christmas, we pray Jesus reveals himself to you as He revealed himself to us, though perhaps not in the same way or for the same duration. And yet, our hearts are hard, often requiring many thrusts into the fire and many blows under the hammer. We pray, then, that God gives you a heart of thanksgiving no matter your circumstances, and a joy so wonderful to grasp that it hurts to uncurl your fingers.

Love,

Ryan, Amber, Jan, Mercy, Gilead, and Abel

Wordless Wednesday--Gluten Free Thanksgiving Prep

2011-11-22T22:19:00.000-08:00

Having three small children and being gluten-free makes putting on a Thanksgiving meal quite the project. Therefore, my mom and I started today. Pecan pie, pumpkin pie with a streusel topping, and the french fried onions and cream of mushroom soup for the green bean casserole are now done. If you want to make the green bean casserole you can find the recipe here. It's well worth the effort!

Frying up the onions.

The only thing that kept me from eating lots of these was the fact that Abel wouldn't like it.

My pretty Thanksgiving pie plate. My sister gave this to me for my birthday a few years ago.

Ginger streusel pumpkin pie!

Mushrooms for cream of mushroom soup.

Finished cream of mushroom soup. I could sit down with a big bowl of this...

Undercover Mama Winner!

2011-11-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry it's taken me so long to announce a winner for the Undercover Mama giveaway. In addition to the business that goes with having three children three and under, we had the stomach bug go through this week, which definitely slowed me down. But, I'm finally posting that winner. And the winner is...

Entry number 113, Brittany C.! Congratulations! I'm sure you'll love your new Undercover Mama camisole. Please e-mail within 48 hours with your contact information and choice of color and size.

A New Blog Hop!

2011-11-11T19:34:00.000-08:00

Abel and the NICU Part 4--"Healthy."

2011-11-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

Later that day Abel was moved from a warming bed to a normal bassinet. We later learned that, by NICU standards, this made him "healthy"--a term we soon learned was very relative in the NICU. And healthy means mobile. He was moved out of the pod that many of the cardiac babies were in (a good thing) and into another pod. It was only Saturday afternoon--a mere 72 hours since Abel's delivery, but it seemed we'd been caught in the middle of some crazy reality TV show forever at this point.

Now we settled into a pattern for the remainder of our time in NICU. The next morning mom brought Mercy and Gilead in for a visit, and we determined that it would be best for everyone if they stayed at our friend's home with us. For next six days we would wake in the morning, eat breakfast with Mercy, Gilead, and our friends, pack a lunch, and head out for a day at the hospital. We weren't able to see Abel between 6:30pm and 7:30pm, when the nurses changed shifts and updated one another on the babies in their care. Therefore, we would always return to see Mercy and Gilead and eat dinner with them. Then we'd tell them goodnight and head back to the hospital until sometime after 10pm. We typically arrived back at the house after 11pm, updated our hosts, fell into bed utterly exhausted, and then repeated the routine.

What matters in life comes sharply into focus at times like these. Though we were excited about Ryan's new job, employment suddenly wasn't the end-all it had been for months. In the NICU we weren't the typical group of post-partum mothers, either. We were hospital gown, sweatpant, and maternity clad mothers who didn't care about our waistlines or looking like we had it together. It was our babies that mattered. I didn't get to meet many of the other parents, but our faith and church family are what carried us through that time.

Our days in the NICU consisted of holding Abel and feeding him--or trying to. We did a lot of praying that he would actually eat. Most feedings I would be allowed to try to breastfeed him. When he seemed to tire we would then try to bottle feed him. He typically only took 5 to 15mL, and we were told he needed to be taking 45-50mL orally before he could be discharged. Once he would give up on the bottle, the rest of his milk would be syringed through a feeding tube.

The doctors made their rounds late morning. We looked forward to these updates and actually learning if Abel was making any progress. And he was. At least in the breathing department. By day 4 his respirations were down to about 80 per minute, and he was still oxygenating. However, four days is much longer than an infant should be having breathing and eating trouble with TTN, and by this point the physicians felt an echocardiogram was in order. I remember thinking "oh, good. Maybe we'll finally know what's going on." Then instantly realizing that I didn't want it to be anything that would show up on an echocardiogram. I'd rather just never know.

On the evening of Abel's seventh day he actually nursed decently. He took 35mL from me. We began to feel some real hope. That was the morning that the effects of this time was really showing on our children as well. When we had left that morning Gilead turned and ran from us, sobbing. I began to cry, too.

The next day, Abel did even better--taking 45 to 55mL at the breast each feeding. We knew then that we would be going home very soon.

On Abel's ninth day we arrived at the hospital to find patient education handouts awaiting us and Abel minus his feeding tube. I'll never forget rounds that morning. "This is Abel M., and he's ready to go home."

Our time at Doernbecher is slowly becoming a blur. During that time we were blessed by wonderful physicians and caring nurses, many of whom were Christian. Life is just beginning to feel normal again. We arrived home from the hospital only to begin packing to move. A week and a half later we loaded a truck to move across state for that job Ryan had been offered.

God is indeed good--but sometimes that doesn't look at all the way we imagine it will.

Undercover Mama Review and Giveaway

2011-11-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted a nursing camisole, but the price has been more than prohibitive. Nursing during the cooler months always leaves me feeling chilly, and a camisole seemed to be the perfect solution. However, I had resigned myself to a nursing experience that leaves me less than warm during the winter.

Then I heard about the Undercover Mama, and it seemed to be the perfect solution. They are half the cost of many other higher quality nursing camisoles (without sacrificing quality!) but offer the same benefits with the added freedom to wear your favorite nursing bra.

I was sent an Undercover Mama in nude for review before Abel's birth and eagerly awaited the opportunity to put it to use. It was still too warm for two layers when he was born, but it was September, and I knew my opportunity would come soon. Then we moved to a climate in which we can expect snow anytime starting in October. It didn't take me long to put my Undercover Mama to use!

It took me about 30 seconds to fall in love with the Undercover Mama. And the more I use it, the more I like it. The added coverage is wonderful not only when I'm nursing, but also during those times when one of my other children gets a hold of my shirt in such a way as to expose my post-baby belly. It's really not something I'm inclined to show off.

The Undercover Mama is also easy to use. It attaches quickly and easily to all of my nursing bras. I've discovered that with some bras I prefer the hook attachment, and with others the loop is more effective. I love that there are two options, which makes the Undercover Mama even more practical (as if it wasn't already!).

The versatility and ease of use of the Undercover Mama makes it indespensible as part of my winter nursing wardrobe. I definitely plan on investing in one or two more before the weather gets even colder--I think it's even going to appear on my Christmas wish list!

I'm very excited about the Undercover Mama, and even more so since Undercover Mama has graciously offered to send one Undercover Mama nursing shirt to a reader of Gluten Free Motherhood.

Rules: Please enter the giveaway using Rafflecopter. Comments do not count as entries--though you are welcome to comment just because you want or to remind yourself that you've entered! Giveaway ends November 16 at 12:01am pacific time.

Wordless Wednesday--Storytime with Daddy

2011-10-19T07:55:00.000-07:00

This makes my heart glad.

Abel and the NICU--Part 3, "Reunion"

2011-10-18T15:06:00.001-07:00

True to her word, the doctor discharged me shortly after 7am. My mom came with Mercy and Gilead to pick me up. In the short, 5 minute ride home from the hospital I became so nauseated I spent the next several minutes hanging over the porcelain throne. The ride to Doernbecher was going to be over an hour, and it wasn't looking like I was going to be capable of getting through the trip there. The next couple of hours were spent acquiring a prescription for nausea that would allow me to join Ryan and Abel.

During those couple of hours Ryan called. He'd been offered a job. We couldn't process it. We'd been praying for work for over a year, and this was a tremendous answer to prayer. However, for the moment, the job was shuffled to the backs of our brains while the rest of our brains focused on our baby's survival.

It was near 11am by the time we were on our way out the door. We stopped to drop the kids off at a friend's home on the way. Joanna graciously offered to keep them overnight if it turned out that that would be helpful.

When we finally arrived at Doernbecher, signed in, scrubbed down, and got back to the "pod" that Abel was in we were greeted by a very tired looking, but encouraged Ryan.

Entrance to the NICU

Handwashing procedure. We had to do this every time we entered the unit.

Handwashing station. Those are knee pads below the sink that operated the faucets so that you didn't have to touch anything that might recontaminate you.

He and Abel had had several visitors from church, and Abel was improving. He was now off of oxygen and had even sucked on a pacifier for a few minutes, which was big news given his complete lack of a rooting reflex. Then they had me try to nurse him, and he latched on. In that moment I thought "we're going to get to go home tomorrow!" His respirations were still about double the normal rate, but he was oxygenating and seeming to want to eat. Those were both major concerns that seemed to be resolving.

By the next feeding I was utterly exhausted. I'd had a c-section a mere 48 hours before, had only slept 3 hours in the last 60, and there isn't anyplace to lay down in the NICU. I began to shake, and tearfully had to say that I couldn't hold Abel, let alone feed him. Apparently I really wasn't looking good, and Abel's nurse encouraged Ryan to take me down to the emergency room. She thought I was going into shock. Ryan did take me down, and we waited five hours to be seen. During that time my mom left to pick up the kids and take them back home. As it turns out I was just post-surgery, exhausted, and stressed out.

We spent a few more minutes with Abel before heading to a friend's home for the night. They were only 30 minutes from the hospital rather the 1 hour and 15 minutes we are from the hospital. We arrived sometime after midnight, and fell into bed utterly exhausted. Apart from having to wake up every 3 hours to pump I slept like the dead until after 10am. I awoke feeling much better, but also guilty for having abandoned my baby for so long. Ryan assured me that his nurses would be glad that I had gotten some rest. Regardless, I got showered and dressed as quickly as I could so that we could head back and see how Abel had progressed overnight.

When we got to the hospital our hopes of being discharged were dispelled. He wasn't eating, and his respirations were still over 100 per minute. At that point we knew that we needed to prepare ourselves for a longer haul than we had hoped for.

Wordless Wednesday--My Helpful Men

2011-10-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

Is there anything more attractive than a man voluntarily doing dishes for you?

How about two of them?

Abel and the NICU--Part 2, "Breath"

2011-10-04T10:47:00.001-07:00

Abel literally means "breath" or "vapor." We gave that a lot of thought before deciding to give him the name. Though Abel was given his name for the faith and righteousness of Abel as demonstrated in Genesis and commended in Hebrews 11, we thought that rather than being dismal, the meaning was a good reminder of what we truly are.

However, as Ryan and Abel left the birthing center and headed to Doernbecher's where Abel could be given the specialized care he needed, I remember thinking "oh God, no. We didn't mean it this literally." His name means breath--and Abel's breath was literally being taken from him. I hadn't meant that I wanted his life to be a fleeting vapor, and then gone.

I returned to my room to finish packing up to be sure I was ready for the early morning discharge I'd been promised, then tried to get some sleep. I hadn't slept at all the first night. The long-lasting morphine in the spinal causes me to itch so badly I'd rather be in pain. However, sleep was hard to come by. After an hour of fitful slumber I awoke, and after determining that they should be to Doernbecher by now, gave Ryan a call. They were there, and Abel was being set up in a warming bassinet. Nothing had really changed. His respirations were still at 150 per minute and he was in an oxygen tent.

By now it was after 2am. Ryan said he'd been told he could try to sleep in a pumping room (yes, a room for mothers of NICU babies to pump), and though he didn't want to leave Abel, thought he should try. I knew I needed to try to sleep as well. So, after pumping I settled back in to try to catch some much needed rest.

Abel and the NICU, Part 1

2011-09-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

If you're really wanting to know the details of this last week, it's going to have come in installments. So much happened, and there isn't any way to tell it without it getting rather lengthy.

When Abel's rapid breathing and lack of interest in feeding didn't resolve in 24 hours I began to push the nurses regarding what happens when 24 hours have passed. Abel was worse. He was up to 80-90 respirations per minute and still not even rooting. Now we were being told that "sometimes it takes 48 hours to resolve." He wasn't a big baby, and it didn't seem that waiting 48 hours would be a good thing. So the lactation consultant was summoned. And she was concerned.

Spending time skin to skin while keeping Abel's chest in an "open" position in hopes of regulating his breathing.

Then Abel started to shudder. Initially I thought he was cold, but then realized that he couldn't be. He was dressed warmly and swaddled in a blanket. The nurse was called again. And I was told it was his startle reflex. I've had two babies--I know the startle reflex. This wasn't it. She finally called the doctor in.

The physician on call finally arrived, and upon glancing at Abel assured us that he looked like a normal newborn to him. However, he said he could "check him out and do a chest x-ray" if it would make me "feel better." I have never been so thoroughly patronized. So I backed down and said that that wasn't necessary if he was truly fine. And he responded with "well, I think it will be normal, but should do the x-ray."

Now I was just confused. I thought he said Abel was fine. In which case, why do the x-ray?

The x-ray did, indeed, come back normal. More patronization followed. I was told I needed to rest, so they should take the baby to the nursery. We were told that "new parents" get nervous while our other children were in the room. I lost it. I let the doctor have it--and if you know me, you know that it takes a lot to get me there. Poor Mercy kept asking what was wrong with Mommy.

These were taken when I really began to notice that Abel was getting worse, not better.

Abel was taken to the nursery, and an I.V. was placed. Again, very confusing. If he was fine, why an I.V.? Then the doctor went home.

A couple of hours later Abel's respirations were up to 120 a minute, and the nurse called him back in. At this point, he became very, very accommodating. He expressed his concern over Abel's worsening condition and stated that he thought he needed to be transported to a facility that could care for him more effectively. Doernbecher's Neonatal Care Center (NICU unit) was contacted and arrangements were made. The PANDA team (a transport team that specializes in transporting critically ill infants and children) was on its way.

In the meantime, Abel's respirations had grown more rapid--150 per minute, which is as high as the monitors can track. He was also placed on oxygen because his saturation levels were dropping. I don't know if I've ever been so scared. Many silent, scattered prayers were sent up. A Telepeds robot was used to bring the neonatologist into the room. He was then able to interact with us and the transport team.

Once the PANDA team arrived you'd have thought God just walked through the door. The doctor sighed audibly and said "I'm glad you're here." A few more tests were run, the PANDA team conferred with the doctor via robot to determine how best to care for Abel during transport, and he was placed in an isolate on a stretcher equipped with an oxygen tent. The last thing I remember before his being wheeled out of the birthing center is registering the neonatologist expressing his concern regarding a possible congenital cardiac problem. Then my husband and my baby walked out the door.

Abel today with his commemorative PANDA team bear.

Abel Valor is Here!

2011-09-18T22:58:00.001-07:00

By now most of you already know this, but Abel Valor Myers arrived on September 7 at 1:20pm weighing in at 6lbs. 10oz. and 19.75 inches long.

Ready to go into the operating room.

Enjoying a snuggle.

This was my first uncomplicated delivery. The c-section went smoothly, for which I was very thankful. The spinal wasn't done well with my last, and for a few moments I was left in 10/10, I'm going to die if this doesn't stop now, kind of pain. The anesthetist this time knew my history and took it nice and slow. Though it took him three tries to find a space and position that allowed him to get in without the same results he patient, kind, and willing to take his time and make sure he did it right.

Getting to know Daddy.

Mercy loves her baby brother.

Abel is beautiful. Upon his initial exam it was found that he was breathing rapidly, and once he was placed on my chest we also noted that he had no rooting reflex. However, we were assured that these things would resolve themselves within 24 hours--so we settled into enjoying our third child. We're all in love.

Stomach Flu and 4 Days until Baby...

2011-09-03T20:38:00.000-07:00

Baby is scheduled to arrive via c-section on Wednesday. That's right, this Wednesday, the 7th. And I'm ready to be un-pregnant and hold the little guy in my arms rather than my abdomen.

But yesterday morning Mercy came down with the stomach flu. We were all in "I can't believe this is happening now" shock. Everytime the stomach flu enters the house I desperately look up the incubation period hoping for some assurance that once we hit a certain number of hours we'll be in the clear. It would seem that incubation can be as short as 4 hours, and as long as 10 days. Mercy came down with the bug on Friday, but hadn't been away from the house since Monday. So 5 days for her. And the baby is scheduled to come 5 days after she got sick.

Today Mercy seems fine. Here she is energetically dancing.

I'm a bundle of nerves. When I had Gilead we were all really sick and Mercy ended up with pneumonia. It was a miserable time. The only good thing in those couple of weeks was Gilead. The idea of having a c-section and the stomach flu is not one that I care to experience. We'd appreciate many prayers for health as we enter this next week and welcome our new little one--Lord willing, without anymore illness.

So Much to Do, So Little Time

2011-09-01T00:09:00.000-07:00

I am now really feeling the countdown until the baby arrives. One week from today. Excuse me. One week from yesterday. I just checked the clock and it is after midnight.

My husband is away from home, which means I can't sleep and am up way past my bedtime.

That, and my mental checklist won't stop. I need to scour everything, right? And organize. And dig the infant seat out of the garage. Pack my suitcase. Do better at getting Mercy's and Gilead's daily schedules in order (to help keep Nonni sane). Put up some freezer meals. Make granola. Etc., etc., etc. When I evaluate my list honestly, we'd probably be just find if none of those things occur, but I'm a planner to a fault.

Which leaves me wondering--what is on your list of things that have to be done before a new baby is welcomed into your household?

"Did You Know You're REALLY Pregnant?"

2011-08-27T15:09:00.001-07:00

What people say never ceases to amaze us. I know that every pregnant woman in the world has said as much, but when you're pregnant, your body becomes a free comment zone. And today I must be looking particularly pregnant.

First thing this morning I went to a yard sale that advertised baby boy things and the lady running the sale just couldn't get over how far out front I pop out. I don't think I've heard "wow" so often.

But the best one came later, when we all went to the farmer's market. We were in line at a booth behind a couple in their 50s or so. When they turned around after having made their purchase the man's eyes visibly widened. He then proceeded to say "Wow! Now that is a green striped watermelon if I ever saw one!"

Yes, I happen to be wearing a green striped shirt today. In fact, this is me--today. I wish I'd had the wherewithal to say something to the effect of "I know, that's why I wore this shirt. I LOVE watermelon." More comments were made, to which I tried to graciously smile, nod, and say "I know, but I'm almost done."

Once it was over my husband was outraged. He commented that people might as well come up and say "Hey, did you know that you're really pregnant?!" Why, yes, as a matter of fact, I had noticed...

Wordless Wednesday--A Sunday Afternoon Treat

2011-08-23T21:10:00.000-07:00

My children have recently discovered push-ups. They're a much anticipated Sunday afternoon treat.

Prenatal Cradle Mini Cradle Review

2011-08-23T08:35:00.000-07:00

As I'm sure is obvious from my previous pregnancy pictures, I carry my babies way out front.

This was me at 30 weeks.

Though I know that moms who's babies are more tucked in have their own set of discomforts, unpleasant results of the way I carry are back pain, hip pain, and nerve pain. I also get cervical pain in the third trimester.

And, this pregnancy, for the first time, I've been diagnosed with pubic symphesis disorder, or PSD. Which, I've discovered, can be very, very painful.

I've always wanted some sort of pregnancy support belt, and was thrilled when It's You Babe agreed to send me the Prenatal Cradle Mini Cradle for review. I received my Mini Cradle at 32 weeks.

The day after after receiving the Mini Cradle I loaded Mercy into the umbrella stroller to go to story time at the library. I didn't make it around the block before getting a terrible stitch in my side. So I promptly put on my new Mini Cradle. I made it all the way to the library (about 1 mile) without the pain I'd become accustomed to!

And now that my PSD is worsening by the day I wear the Mini Cradle almost constantly. Walking would be impossible without it, and though I still have pain when wearing it, it isn't debilitating like it is without it.

I highly recommend the Prenatal Cradle Mini Cradle by It's You Babe! It relieves much of the pain and discomfort associated with pregnancy while also being low profile. I can wear it with any combination of undergarments and outer clothing, and it's a breeze to take on and off. My only recommendation would be additional rows of eyes for the hook and eye closure. I went through a period in which the middle size was too small, but the largest was too loose. Something in the middle would have been perfect.

So, if you're expecting, I'd highly recommend that you head on over to It's You Babe to check out their great line of ergonomic products for pregnancy. You can also keep up with this terrific company via Twitter and Facebook. I'm looking forward to giving the Best Cradle for even more support a try these last few weeks to relieve my PSD. I don't know what I would do without my Prenatal Cradle this time around!

UPrinting Winner!

2011-08-12T17:44:00.000-07:00

The UPrinting Customizable Sticker giveaway ended yesterday, and today random.org selected number 26 as the winner. Congratulations Karla! I'll be sending you an e-mail. Please respond within 24 hours to claim your prize.

Customizable Sticker Giveaway from UPrinting!

2011-08-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

I don't know about your preschoolers, but mine loves stickers. And today UPrinting is offering to give one of Gluten Free Motherhood's readers 250 customizable stickers! The stickers are 2" x 3.5" and come on 70 lb. Label Matte with front only printing and 4 business day turnaround time. That's a $40 value!

I'm really looking forward to designing our stickers (with Mercy's help, of course). I'm thinking about doing something pertaining to the new baby. Or maybe a label she can use for her school books and coloring books. Perhaps with her picture. She'd get a kick out of that. Something that could be used for individual children, or both of them, would be ideal.

So, if you want to win your very own customizable stickers, here's the details!

PRIZE: 250 customizable 2.5" x 3" stickers on 70 lb. Label Matte with front only printing and 4 day turnaround.

MANDATORY ENTRY: Comment and let me know what you would like to use your stickers for should you win! (1 entry)

EXTRA ENTRIES:
1. "Like" UPrinting on Facebook. (1 entry)
2. "Follow" UPrinting on Twitter. (1 entry)

Please leave one comment for each entry. UPrinting sticker giveaway ends at 11:59pm Pacific Time August 11. Open only to residents of the US ages 18 or over.

Disclaimer: Required as per FTC Ruling (Please see example below)
This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive stickers for hosting. Check out standard label templates on UPrinting.com.
http://www.uprinting.com/sticker-printing.html

Wordless Wednesday--Consolidating Households!

2011-07-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

My mom will be moving in with us in a couple of weeks. Therefore, the kids have moved into one room. And, while we were at it, we graduated Mercy to a twin bed and Gilead to the toddler bed. So far it is going pretty well.

Mercy's side of the room. I found the bedding set (with everything--including a bedskirt and window valances) at Goodwill! And we got the rail for free in our church exchange closet.

Gilead's side,with a handmade quilt from a friend. He was obviously in the middle of getting into pajamas in this picture...

Books, bookcases, etc.

First night sleeping together!

The crib all set up for a tiny baby.

The "nursery" is actually a corner of our bedroom. However, I think it will work well. This will be the first time we've had the opportunity to put a newborn in the crib.

Prefense Giveaway Winner!

2011-07-19T11:50:00.000-07:00

The Prefense 24 Hour Non-Alcohol hand sanitizer giveaway ended last night, and this morning random.org selected a winner. Congratulations to entry number 97, Ashley! I've sent you an e-mail letting you know that you've won. Please get back to me within 48 hours to claim your free bottle of Prefense!

Wordless Wednesday--30 Weeks!

2011-07-12T16:48:00.000-07:00

Here I am at 30 weeks. No, I'm not having twins. And the baby looks to be an average size. Yes, people are asking...

Summer Grilling--Herb Crusted Pork with Mushroom Sauce!

2011-07-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

During the summer we try to grill as much as possible. Though it is always tasty, every now and then we try something that is truly noteworthy. We had one of those nights this week.

Here they are on the grill.

While my husband grilled these up I made a mushroom sauce. Here's dinner all served up.

So, do you want to repeat it? If so, here's what we did.

1. I marinated the pork chops for several hours in a 50/50 blend of soy sauce and olive oil.

2. While the chops marinate pound fresh herbs of choice into the meat. I used salt, pepper, garlic, tarragon, oregano, and parsley. Be very, very generous with the herbs as some fall off in the grilling process. This is why using a meat pounder is necessary. I didn't pound the meat, per se--just made sure the herbs were good and stuck onto the surface.

3. Next, my husband grilled them according to the directions in "America's Test Kitchen."

4. I adapted the recipe for mushroom sherry sauce from America's test kitchen to the following:

1 Tbs. olive oil

1/2 lb. sliced mushrooms

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup beef broth

1/2 cup sherry

3 Tbs. butter

Leftover pork marinade

Saute the mushrooms in the olive oil until nicely browned and add the garlic. Add the broth, sherry, and leftover marinade to the mushrooms and garlic and simmer several minutes until the mixture has reduced. Remove from heat and add butter. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

We plan on doing this again very, very soon. I love summer dinners!

Wordless Wednesday--My Little Coupon Clipper

2011-07-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

It's never too early to learn the value of couponing, right?

She's actually quite adept with her preschool scissors, thanks to the Kumon cutting book we've worked on during school time!

Bon Appetit Aprons Winner!

2011-07-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry it's taken me all day to get around to using random.org to select a winner for the Bon Appetit Aprons giveaway. We're having a yard sale this weekend, and things have been crazy!

However, now that the kids are in bed, a winner has been selected. Comment #177, cpage2323, you've won! You have 48 hours to respond to my e-mail with your contact information and apron selection. Congratulations!

Wordless Wednesday--Daddy and Daughter

2011-06-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

Prefense Non-Alcohol 24 hour lasting Hand Sanitizer Review & Giveaway

2011-06-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

I'm one of those moms who I'm sure others think is a bit germophobic. We use shopping cart covers, wash our hands frequently, and use hand sanitizer often when out and about. I'm convinced we can't be too careful with our children in regards to their health. However, though I've wanted to be sure my children were as protected as possible from illness, I've always had a difficult time applying harsh, alcohol based santizers to their little hands and sensitive skin. It just didn't seem gentle enough for small children, but what was I to do?

Enter Prefense Alcohol Free hand sanitizer.

Prefense foaming hand sanitizer is non-toxic, safe for kids, and lasts for up to 10 hand washings! When I received my bottle of Prefense I tried it right away. At the time I had cut on one hand and a burn on the other. Prefense is silica based, but even so I was shocked, yet thrilled, to discover that Prefense didn't make either of them sting. As a double bonus, my hands were also left feeling softer. After that I was even more excited about using on my children's delicate skin.

We had the opportunity to give Prefense a good try last week at Pike Place Market in Seattle. Not only does it protect my children from germs, but they love using it, too!

I also love the fact that we don't have to constantly re-apply Prefense after trips to the bathroom or before entering each new establishment when running errands--though my children would love it if we could. They ask for some "rub" every time we go out, which is great. A little extra reminder doesn't hurt a thing.

Are you ready to give Prefense a try? Prefense is available through Prefense's online store for a terrific price. Remeber, each pump lasts up to 24 hours--through up to 10 hand washings! You can learn more about Prefense at their web site, and Prefense can also be found on Twitter and Facebook.

Prefense is going to send a big 8oz. bottle of hand sanitizer (640 applications!) to one lucky reader of Gluten Free Motherhood, and entering is so easy!

Rules: Giveaway is open to U.S. residents only. Please leave one comment for each entry. That is, if an entry method is worth more than one entry, leave the equivalent number of comments (2 entries = 2 comments, etc.) Also leave an e-mail address I can reach you at if you win.

Mandatory Entry: Just leave a comment letting me know what situations you love to use Prefense in!

Extra Entries:
1. Follow me, Gluten Free Motherhood, or let me know if you already do. (2 entries)
2. "Like" Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook, or let me know if you already do. (2 entries)
3. Follow Gluten Free Motherhood @GFMotherhood on Twitter, or let me know if you already do. (2 entries)
4. Vote for Gluten Free Motherhood at "We're on the Fence" via the button on the right. (1 entry. This may be done daily for 1 entry per day.)
5. "Like" Prefense on Facebook. (1 entry)
6. Follow Prefense on Twitter. (1 entry)
7. Tweet this giveaway, being sure to mention @Prefense and @GFMotherhood and leave me the link to your tweet. (1 entry. May be done daily for 1 entry per day.)
8. Share this giveaway on Facebook. (1 entry. May be done daily for 1 entry per day.)

Giveaway closes on July 18 at 11:59pm Pacific Time.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Flowerz In Her Hair Winner!

2011-06-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry it has taken me a couple of days to get this done. However, yesterday random.org's random number generator selected a winner. Congratulations to entry number 89, Shanee! I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly letting you know that you won.

Don't forget to enter my other current giveaway for an apron of choice from Bon Appetit Aprons. She even makes maternity aprons for the expectant mother! Enter here.

Tandoori Chicken

2011-06-14T12:40:00.000-07:00

I'm rediscovering many favorite recipes lately. In all of our nomadicism many of them were pushed by the wayside. It can be difficult to keep a steady stock of necessary ingredients when sharing a pantry.

This is one that my family has been very excited about partaking of once again. Tandoori chicken. The recipe even came from a friend who grew up in India. My children devour it, as do Ryan and I. And if you're afraid of spice, you needn't fear this recipe. It is delightfully savory without being "spicy hot."

The recipe actually calls for a fryer, but we just have a little portable grill, and it doesn't handle bone-in chicken. If you don't have a grill at all, you can use a broiler pan in the oven. And don't let the list of ingredients or lengthy instructions deter you. All of the ingredients are just tossed into a food processor, then you basically marinate and then cook the chicken. It looks scary, but it is actually very easy, and so worth it! Even my children ask for "yellow chicken." I'm happy to oblige. And now for the recipe.

Tandoori Chicken:
1 medium onion, diced
1 garlic clove
3 T. salad oil
2 T. lemon juice
1 T. minced ginger or 3/4 t. ground (I recommend fresh)
2 t. salt
1/2 t. ground cumin
1.5 t. ground coriander
1 t. sugar
1/2 t. turmeric
1/4 t. cayenne pepper
1/4 c. plain yogurt
1, 3lb. broiler-fryer, quartered

In blender container or food processor, place all ingredients except yogurt and chicken. Blend or process at high speed until pureed. Pour mixture into 12x8 baking dish and stir in yogurt.

With a sharp knife, make 3 diagonal slashes in each chicken breast half; do not cut all the way through to the bone. Make 2 diagonal slashes in each thigh. Make several small cuts in each drumstick. Add chicken to yogurt mixture. Cover and refrigerate at least 12 hours, turning chicken occasionally.

Prepare outdoor grill for barbecuing. When grill is ready, place chicken on grill over low coals. Cook 35 minutes or until chicken is fork-tender, turning often and basting with yogurt mixture.

To broil in oven, marinate as above. Place chicken skin down in broiler pan and baste. Broil about seven to nine inches from source of heat 25 minutes or until browned. Turn and baste with remaining mixture; broil 15 minutes longer or until chicken is fork-tender.

Bon Appetit Aprons Review and Giveaway (Maternity Aprons, Too)! CLOSED

2011-06-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Though being gluten-free necessitates that, I probably would anyway. If I wasn't making hamburger buns and loaves of bread because I need to, I'd more than likely be making more batches of cookies than I currently have time for. For my lifestyle, a good apron is a necessity.

When I became pregnant with my first I commented to my husband that what I needed was a maternity apron. Something that would accommodate my belly as I grew. I was dismayed to discover that such a thing didn't seem to exist. Until I recently discovered Bon Appetit Aprons. Janoah from Bon Appetit Aprons makes the solution to my problem--the "Bun in the Oven Maternity Apron." I was delighted when she sent me a blue floral one for review.

Isn't it just too cute? I was also extremely impressed by the quality of the workmanship--right down to the serged seams, adjustable neck strap, and extra long ties (so necessary for an expanding waistline).

The "Bun in the Oven Blue Floral Maternity Apron" offers great coverage and the ability to expand with me!

Even when I'm not pregnant, I've always envied the aprons that you see in older movies and television shows that seem to be as much an accessory to one's wardrobe as a practical protective covering. The ones you most commonly see now are just so very utilitarian. Bon Appetit Aprons are just so attractive, and the claim that they add "a dash of class for your cooking" is 100% true. In addition to maternity aprons, Bon Appetit Aprons also carries a wide variety of aprons for those who aren't expecting. Here are a couple of my favorites.

The "Afternoon Tea Apron"

The "Vintage Bird Apron"

And for those who have little girls who are aspiring cooks, Bon Appetit Aprons even offers mother/daughter apron sets!

"Orange Spice" mother/daughter set.

Are you drooling yet? Here's some more good news. Bon Appetit Aprons has agreed to send one reader of Gluten Free Motherhood an apron of choice* ("regular" or maternity)! Of course, if you just can't wait until the giveaway ends, you can always head on over to Bon Appetit Aprons and place an order anytime (and receive an entry for each item purchased)!

Please leave a comment for every entry. So if an entry method is worth two entries, leave two comments, and so on. And make sure you leave an e-mail address I can contact you at if you win!

Mandatory Entries (Must complete both for all other entries to count):

1. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood, or let me know if you already are. (1 entry)

2. Head on over to Bon Appetit Aprons and tell me which apron is your favorite! (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

1. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood on Twitter. (2 entries)

2. "Like" Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook. (1 entry)

3. Vote for Gluten Free Motherhood at "We're on the Fence" via the button on the right. (1 entry. May be done daily for 1 entry per day).

4. Tweet this giveaway and leave me the link to your tweet. (1 entry. May be done daily for 1 entry per day.)

5. Share this giveaway on Facebook and leave me the link to your post. (1 entry. May be done daily for 1 entry per day.)

6. Blog this giveaway and leave me the link to your post. (3 entries)
7. Per request, Purchase an apron and receive and entry for each item purchased! (1 entry per purchase).

Giveaway ends June 30 at 11:59pm Pacific Time.

*Mother/Daughter sets are not included in the giveaway.

**I was not compensated monetarily for this review. I was sent one "Bun in the Oven" Maternity Apron for review purposes only. Any and all opinions expressed above are my own.

I Love My Mom

2011-06-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

I only make cookies every couple of weeks. I'd like to do it more often, but because everything else from my kitchen is from scratch as well, they just don't fit in between the mandatory cooking, laundry, feeding, dressing, diaper changing, and other daily tasks all that often.

However, my mom is here, and she loves cooking for others. Every couple of days she gets down one of my gluten-free cookbooks and whips up a batch of cookies. The current batch is one of my favorites--ginger snaps. This recipe is from Gluten Free Baking Classics. YUM! They're perfect, with just the right chewy texture. Wonderful for cravings. Not so great for pregnancy weight gain.

Wordless Wednesday--Beating the Heat

2011-06-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

It has been an exceptionally wet and cold spring in this part of the country. However, on Wednesday, we got an 80+ degree day out of nowhere.

Yes, that's me cooling off in the kid's pool, wearing Mercy's strawberry sunhat. She put it on me, in case you wondered...

Blog Hopping!

2011-06-02T18:18:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter the Flowerz in Her Hair giveaway while you're here!

Flowerz In Her Hair Review and Giveaway! (Closed)

2011-06-01T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure I'm not the only mom with a little girl who loves hair accessories. And, in our case, we waited pretty close to two years for Mercy to have enough hair to use them in! Then, once it came in, it was so fine that getting anything to actually stay in her hair was yet another challenge.

Therefore, I was excited when I discovered Flowerz In Her Hair, and even more excited when Amy agreed to send us some of her products to try.

They arrived beautifully presented.

Flowerz In Her Hair has a huge selection, and making a selection took me the better part of two weeks. We ended up trying a medium "Cute as a Button" alligator clip, a small flower alligator clip, and a 2" wrapped snap clip with a bow.

The alligator clips have a "non-slip grip" option, which I enthusiastically opted for. And that grip really does do it's job! Those clippies don't go anywhere unless Mercy intentionally messes with them. I love, love, love having the option of just slipping a clip into her hair without having to put a little ponytail in first!

Mercy sporting her "Cute as a Button" clip.

Mercy in her small flower clip on her birthday.

The wrapped snap clip is still a wee bit big for the amount of hair Mercy has, but at the rate it is coming in, it won't be long until it stays without a problem, either. And I think it is one of my favorites! So feminine--and it dresses up or down easily.

I also love the woven headbands and am looking forward to getting one or two for Mercy once she's a bit bigger. I've never seen a "big girl" headband like these that you can also attach clippies of your choice to.

Flowerz In Her Hair also has some of the best prices and shipping charges I've seen. Any orders over $10 receive free shipping, and you get a free clip holder with every order as well.

Flowerz In Her Hair has generously offered a $15 e-gift card to one reader of Gluten Free Motherhood. Or, if you just can't wait, head on over and place an order for some high quality hair accessories. I'm sure your girl will love new hair pretties from Flowerz In Her Hair as much as mine does!

Please be sure to leave a valid e-mail address with your entries. One comment equals one entry, so if an entry method is worth more than one entry please leave the appropriate number of comments to ensure that you have the best odds of winning possible!

Mandatory Entries:

1. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood via GFC, or let me know if you already are! (1 entry)

2. Head on over to Flowerz In Her Hair and tell me one item you would like to use your gift card toward if you win! (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

1. Become a follower of Flowerz in Her Hair on Twitter. (1 entry)
2. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood on Twitter. (2 entries)
3. Tweet this giveaway. Please provide the address of the tweet. (May be done once daily for 1 entry per day)
4. "Like" Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook. (2 entries)
5. Share this giveaway on facebook. (May be done once daily for 1 entry per day)
6. Vote for Gluten Free Motherhood at "We're on the Fence" via the button on the right. (May be done once daily for 1 entry per day)
7. Blog this giveaway and leave me the link to your post. (3 entries)

That's a lot of possible entries! 13 the first day, plus more if you tweet and facebook it more than once.

Giveaway ends June 15 at 11:59pm Pacific time.

*I was provided with three clips for review purposes by Flowerz in Her Hair. I was not compensated for this post in any other way. All opinions above are my own.

Wordless Wednesday--Off Road with John Deere

2011-05-31T22:28:00.000-07:00

For Gilead's birthday my mom gave him a John Deere ride on tractor. He's now grown into it and going everywhere. Yesterday he discovered that he can follow his sister around the yard without having to come into physical contact with the grass...

Happy 3rd Birthday, Mercy Girl!

2011-05-27T21:24:00.000-07:00

Today was Mercy's third birthday. It's hard to believe that we have had the blessing and privilege of being her parents for a full three years now.

Mercy's 1st Birthday

Though we aren't really doing a party this year, her birthday is somewhat of a drawn out affair. On Wednesday evening she got to go out for an ice cream with her cousin Timothy (who she adores) while we were visiting my mom. Today we did cake and presents. Tomorrow we'll do ice cream again. She has a coupon for a free one at a local place.

Mercy's 2nd Birthday

And this year...

Mercy sampling the frosting.

Me working frantically on finishing her Pooh Bear cake on time. Wearing my new maternity apron from Bon Appetit Aprons. I love it! Watch for a review and giveaway soon!

Mercy trying out her new Ergo doll carrier from her aunt, uncle, and cousins.

Opening the carpet sweeper from Mommy and Daddy.

It really works!

A new piano from grandma and grandpa.

The Winnie the Pooh cake. Sorry it's sideways...

Blowing out the candles.

Gilead enjoying his cake.

Wordless Wednesday--Outside!

2011-05-25T13:11:00.000-07:00

For those of us who live in regions of the country that aren't conducive to outdoor play most of the year, the advent of spring is a big deal. We enjoy it at every opportunity!

Mercy running outside to "help" Daddy with a project.

Playing with Daddy.

Gilead being a brave boy and sitting on the grass. He has, as a rule, hated grass.

Swinging on the tree swing at Nonni's house.

To Market, To Market...

2011-05-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Due to a hand injury, my Mom recently lost her job. Therefore, she is needing to put her house on the market. So, this last week, we made the 6 hour drive to her place to help get some things in order.

You know those places that collect stuff, even when you try to prevent it? Like the basement? Well, those are the ones we decided to attack first. They're coming along. Unfortunately, I didn't think to take many "before" pictures. But here are some "in progress" pictures.

Not too bad for a basement, and we'll be doing more in the next few days.

We also tackled "the hole." Otherwise known as the mudroom. It was dubbed "the hole" because it is a couple of steps lower than the rest of the house, and tends to collect things.

The desk on the right.will be migrating to a different room in the next couple of days. And cleaned off before that happens.

"The hole" also has a nifty loft bed option.

The house is technically only a two bedroom, but you can get two extra people on this double bed. Ryan spent a lot of nights there during our long-distance courtship.

Now we're in the process of tackling the 2nd bedroom. It is being painted by mom and Ryan as we speak. It was decided that I shouldn't since I'm pregnant and have had problems with pre-term labor in the past.

Tearing up the carpet.

Prepping with painter's tape.

Gilead putting in his two cents.

More taping.

Mercy had to help, too...

There are some things, of course, that we aren't qualified to do. Like refinishing the floors. However, by the time we leave next week, we're hoping that most of the cleaning out and re-organizing will be taken care of. So don't be surprised if you don't hear much out of me for another week or so!

I've been featured!

2011-05-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

I was honored when Deb from Lucas's Journey with Sensory Processing Disorder contacted me to say that I'd been selected as the featured blog this week. Thanks, Deb!

Yard Sale Deals!

2011-05-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

Where we used to live, yard sale-ing was a brutal Saturday affair. The sales started as early as 6am (8am was a late one), and at opening there would be people lined up at the sidewalk ready to descend. Here, it is an entirely different ball game. We're just starting to figure it out.

Sales start as soon as Thursday, and they all seem to operate on at least Friday and Saturday. So today I mapped out the sales and was at the most promising sounding one at 8am. I was the only one there, and they were still setting up. I returned a couple of hours later to find even more things out.

Here are our finds.

Weather permitting we love to grill and eat outside. Ryan and I manage just fine eating out of our camp chairs, but the kids need a solid surface. This table will get lots of use. And, the table and chairs fold up for compact storage!

It's a beautiful day, so the kids had to eat lunch at it.

We also found this, but because it had to be disassembled to get it into our car tidily, it isn't available for a picture--this is from the Melissa and Doug site. It's being tucked aside as a birthday gift for Mercy.

Only $15 and in great shape. That's a $140 toy!

And a Baby Bjorn potty that my sister had us pick up for her little girl. This particular sale was full of high quality, well cared for items for very, very inexpensive. They even had a Bugaboo Frog stroller, Ergo Carrier (modified to carry outward facing, too), and a Phil and Ted MeToo hook-on chair.

All in all, we spent less than $15. The piano will be a gift from Mercy's grandparents and the potty is my sister's. But we got the table and chairs, trash can (a $50 can), Boon Frog Pod, swimsuit, sunhat, a Melissa and Doug puzzle and a board book for less than $15. Not too bad!

Wordless Wednesday--Berry Cheesecake Ice Cream!

2011-05-10T21:23:00.000-07:00

Ice cream is my biggest food weakness. My husband's, too. So when the weather warms up I make quite a bit of it. This is a berry cheesecake ice cream. It calls for three packages of cream cheese, so how could it be bad, right?

And, though the recipe doesn't call for it, I love graham cracker crust, so I used some Kinnikinnick gluten free graham crackers and made some graham cracker crust to fold into it.

There are some things that are worth a special diet. Like the desserts you are forced to make that are SO much better than what you could buy in the store!

Potty Training Success!

2011-05-10T13:56:00.000-07:00

I began potty training Mercy when she was ridiculously young--15 months. But she took to it quickly, and by 17 months she was in panties. We had a brief hiatus at 20 months when Gilead was born and she had pneumonia all at the same time, but six weeks later she was back in panties.

Then we moved in August. After about a month she was back on track. Then we moved again in December. And every one to three weeks after that for three months. This was not helpful in any aspect of life with small children, let alone potty training. Mercy no longer slept through the night and had lots of accidents. I threw in the towel and we used pull-ups most of the time. Major upheaval and life insecurities are not good potty training companions.

We've now been where we are for nearly two months. I switched Mercy back to panties while at home about two weeks after we got here, and while she had a couple of accidents a day, panties were still much more economical than pull-ups, so I stuck with it. However, there has been so much going on that I also haven't really "focused" on the potty training thing the way I did the first time around. There have been plenty of other things to stress out about besides changing her pants once or twice a day.

And all of a sudden, about five days ago, when I was sick and Ryan was letting me sleep in he went to put Gilead down for his morning nap and heard Mercy yell "I go potty on myself!" Well, as it turns out, what she had actually said was "I go potty all by myself." And sure enough, she had. And continues to do so. There have been a couple of accidents (but not for three days now!), but overall she takes herself, wipes up, and then rewards herself with a sticker. We're not complaining a bit. Such a big girl!

Strider PREbike Winner!

2011-05-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

The giveaway for the Strider PREbike ended last night at 11:59pm PST, and this afternoon random.org generated a winning number.

And, you're not going to believe this, but the winner is...number 1! How funny is that? My husband watched the process and can vouch for the truth of the matter. I couldn't figure out how to get the results to transfer in that neat little box to show you all, but I did try.

So, "Mama," I will be sending you an e-mail shortly to officially inform you that you have won the Strider PREbike. You have 48 hours to get back to me with the color of your choice and the name and address you would like it shipped to. Congratulations!

Gluten-Free Ice Cream Sandwiches!

2011-05-05T19:35:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when a pregnant woman craves ice cream and chocolate chip cookies.

The cookie recipe is from Annalise G. Roberts' Gluten Free Baking Classics and the ice cream is Tillamook's Udderly Chocolate. Yum!

Some 20 Week Pictures

2011-05-04T19:39:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday--A Great Day

2011-05-04T14:54:00.000-07:00

We're having some overdue spring weather today, and I took some pictures of the kids enjoying it. While splashing around in the water table I overheard Mercy tell Gilead that it is a "great day." Indeed it is!

20 Week Ultrasound Results

2011-04-27T14:31:00.001-07:00

Today I had my 20 week ultrasound. Though we didn't really get any good pictures, we did see enough to learn that baby three is another boy!

I've been strongly leaning boy the past few days, but it still surprises me that we can have boys. I grew up in a family that is very dominantly girl. And now my mother will have more grandsons than granddaughters, which is hard to wrap our brains around.

On the upside of the little guy not cooperating (he was nestled very low, and not budging), we'll get to see him again in four weeks. In addition to not getting to see his face, which was firmly planted in my placenta, the doctor didn't get to get a good look at some of his more vital organs. I'm not going to complain about another glimpse of him before his arrival!

Wordless Wednesday--Tulip Farm

2011-04-26T20:36:00.000-07:00

This last week we had some long overdue sunshine, so we went on a family outing to a local tulip farm.

Don't forget to enter the Strider PREbike giveaway while you're here. Low entries so far, and a $100 value!

Thursday's Friends Cafe Blog Hop--I'm a Guest Host!

2011-04-20T20:01:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled when Melissa from Keeping Up With the Rheinlanders contacted me to say that I was this week's guest host for Thursday's Friends Cafe Blog Hop and Giveaways.

Welcome to the "Thursday's Friends Cafe!"

Hosted by Tammy of Tammy's Two Cents and Keeping Up With The Rheinlanders!

Just a few reminders on how the "Cafe" works.

Follow the two hosts Tammy and Melissa

(pre-requisite for qualifying as guest host)

Add your name/blog to the list
Follow as many participants as you want

(be sure to comment so they can follow you back.)

Most importantly: HAVE FUN!

This weeks guest host is...

ME (Gluten Free Motherhood)!

Bloghop

Thursday's Giveaway Cafe--I'm a Guest Host!

2011-04-20T19:59:00.000-07:00

I was thrilled when Melissa from Keeping Up With the Rheinlanders contacted me to say that I was this week's guest host for Thursday's Friends Cafe Blog Hop and Giveaways.

Link up your giveaways valued at $25 or higher, and don't forget to enter my new giveaway (posted today) for a Strider Running Bike!

Giveaways

Strider PREbike Review and Giveaway! CLOSED

2011-04-20T15:11:00.000-07:00

I first saw a little guy on a Strider PREbike when Mercy was just barely a year old. He zipped around after his brothers and sisters for hours at a time--and had a great time doing it! However, Mercy still wasn't even crawling, let alone walking, so I didn't pay a whole lot of attention.

Then Mercy entered a physical therapy program to address her gross motor delays, and as the therapist would talk about the kinds of activities that would help her to progress, I remembered that little bicycle and filed it away in my mind for some point in the future.

Therefore, I was thrilled when Strider Sports agreed to send one of their PREbikes for Mercy in December.

As soon as she saw the box, she exclaimed "that's a bicycle for Mercy!" It only took a few minutes for my husband to assemble it and adjust it for her so that she could take it for a little test ride.

That first time was slow, but Mercy started just as Strider describes--by standing and walking while holding the handle bars.

Each time she gets on her Strider she's able to go just a wee bit faster, and just recently she's begun to sit while riding. Here's a video from Strider explaining the advantages of a Strider Running Bike.

I've seen other running bikes that either don't have footrests, or place them in such a way that Mercy would be sure to bang her legs on them when attempting to walk the bicycle. I love the "launchpad footrests" on the Strider. No danger of bruised shins and a natural place for her feet to rest once she's able to glide.

In addition to making a great product, the Strider company has been wonderful to work with. Needless to say, December was awhile ago, and I'm just getting this post up. Strider has been more than patient through our Northwest weather and our personal delays. I wish every company was so helpful!

In addition to having sent a PREbike for Mercy's use, Strider is going to give a Strider Runnning Bike to one lucky reader of Gluten Free Motherhood in the color of her or her choice!

Please leave an e-mail address at which you can be contacted with each entry. Giveaway ends Saturday, May 7 at 11:59pm PST.

Mandatory Entries:
1. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood, or let me know if you already are.
2. Head on over to Strider Sports and let me know what color you would choose if you're the winner.

Extra Entries:
1. Become a fan of Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook (1 entry).
2. Become a fan of Strider Running Bikes on Facebook, but please don't clutter up their page by telling them I sent you. It's enough to be their fan (1 entry)!
3. Follow Gluten Free Motherhood on Twitter (1 entry).
4. Tweet this giveaway (1 entry). You may do this once a day. Just leave me a comment with a link to each tweet.
5. Blog this giveaway (3 entries) and leave me a link to your post.
6. Share this giveaway on Facebook (1 entry).
7. Vote for Gluten Free Motherhood on Picket Fence via the button on the right (1 entry). This can also be done once a day for additional entries.

And, of course, if you just can't wait, you can always order a PREbike through Strider.

*I was not compensated monetarily in any way for this post. I was provided one Strider PREbike for purposes of review and all opinions contained here are my own.

Gluten Free Hot Pockets

2011-04-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

This pregnancy I really haven't had any consistent cravings like I have in the past, but cheeseburgers have been more consistent than about anything. However, when it's 9pm and I'm hungry for a cheeseburger I typically don't really have the energy to actually make one.

So I made some cheeseburger hot pockets.

This is where I wish I was a better photographer. And I could have taken the time to make them prettier, but I was hungry and didn't really care about how they looked.

Regardless of of how they look, they were delicious. I cooked up some hamburger with garlic and seasoning salt, sauteed some mushrooms with rosemary, and put them on some gluten free olive oil bread dough (from Healthy Bread in Five Minutes a Day) I'd rolled out. Then I tossed on some green onions and cheddar and mozzerella cheeses before rolling them into pockets.

I'm eager to try this again, but in a chicken and broccoli version...

Wordless Wednesday--A Taste of Spring

2011-04-12T20:34:00.000-07:00

Almost a Week

2011-04-12T08:38:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will be a week since we re-entered the realm of unemployment. Lest anyone get the wrong idea from that last post, this is where I confess how I'm doing.

I don't wake up in the morning feeling hopeful or joyful. I have to actively put on hope and joy. And not just once. But in a minute-by-minute sort of way. I wake up remembering that most of the jobs that are rapidly "rebounding" are retail, that we can't live long term on that, and wondering what in the world we are going to do if we don't get work in the next 2-3 months. Faith isn't easy.

In America, most of us are completely unfamiliar with the fear that we might not have a place to live. We have friends and family who won't let that happen, but without them, it would have been reality in the past and would very possibly be a future reality. In this country family-wage work is available for the taking if you have a good education and work ethic, right? Or, at least, most of us still seem to believe that. We worry about whether or not we'll be able to buy a house, not whether we'll have a roof over our heads. We fret about not having enough bedrooms, or a yard as large as we'd like. Not whether we'll be without shelter. We're spoiled. Myself included. Letting go of those things, especially as a woman, is hard. I want a home to make, and right now I have re-orient and be thankful for a warm, comfortable place to sleep, if not a home we can call our own for any length of time.

Each day I struggle. And about every 36-48 hours I have a "crying" day. On those days I have to be reminded that God is faithful. And He is. Always.

We sang "God Moves in a Mysterious Way" in church on Sunday. And once again, I began to cry--on this verse. One that I am currently trying to remember several times a day.

Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take;

The clouds ye so much dread

Are big with mercy and shall break

In blessings on your head.

Because, in all honesty, I'm fearful. Very, very fearful. And yet, God's mercy is abundant, and I do believe, despite my bad days, that those clouds I so much dread will break forth in blessings.

An Interlude

2011-04-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

This blog was originally intended to revolve around mothering and doing so when a gluten-free diet is involved. And it will return to that--hopefully soon. However, in the meantime, I'm posting here from our personal family blog as well to let you all know why the absence. Life has been a bit on the rocky side lately and blogging hasn't been the top priority. So, please have patience. And I promise that a gluten-free post is in the works!

The Lord Gives and Takes Away

2011-04-07T13:59:00.001-07:00

Blessed be the name of the Lord.

That last part is really difficult. But I don't suppose that it is ever easy when the verse is applicable.

The Lord gave, and He has taken away. Yesterday Ryan was let go. I was in the kitchen cleaning up after lunch when Mercy joyfully exclaimed that daddy was home. And my heart sank to my toes.

Everything clicked into place so quickly four weeks ago. He was offered the job. He started two days later. We found a place we love and moved in four days after he started. God put us here for a reason. But two weeks into work stress levels at work mounted.

They said it wasn't his fault. He's a good accountant, but it was an experienced position and they've come to realize they made a mistake in thinking they could hire someone right out of school to fill it. They'll write a letter of recommendation. And with many apologies they handed him his check.

I've cried more in the past twenty-four hours than I have during the entire course of our marriage. Last night Ryan simply held me until I went to sleep. After sleeping in this morning I cried some more while he held me. Then we began to talk, and he helped me with perspective.

Yes, every mother wants to know where her children are going to be sleeping in a month. How we're going to pay the bills. Have an answer when asked "where's our home, Mommy?" But in reality, the Bible places very little value in financial security. Yes, a man is to work hard to feed his family, but sometimes that looks a bit different than others. Like when your country is in a recession with statistics that rival the great depression.

It is through suffering that Christ is truly revealed to us. That's one of the reasons the apostles gave thanks in the midst of persecution. Those who've never wondered where they'll be sleeping next week or next month have never seen God provide those things in the ways that we've seen Him do that for us. We've seen Christ in situations that have felt desperately lonely and hopeless.

And now, more than ever, we're having to trust God for those things. For nearly a month, we tasted financial security. I thought I was able to plan for the future. That I knew where I'd be tucking my children into bed next year. I had visions of my children playing in the yard this summer. Of a small garden. Of making a home here.

And it's gone. But even in the midst of that we're to give thanks. For right now, what God has given us is enough. However, I'll probably need to be reminded of that with some frequency for the foreseeable future.

Back Online

2011-03-30T15:59:00.000-07:00

So, we're back online. The past couple of weeks have been crazy, but in a good way. Ryan was hired on a Monday, and began working that Wednesday, which left us Tuesday to find a place to live. We found a nice townhouse with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a fenced backyard that fit nicely within our price range.

Then we moved in on Saturday.

We were without internet for nearly two weeks, but that was alright. It left me plenty of time free of internet related distractions to get a lot of the unpacking done. Ryan worked a lot of 12-13 hour days those first couple of weeks, so the majority of the unpacking was up to me. We're now down to the little stuff that just takes awhile.

So, I plan on re-entering the blogging world in the next week or so. Life is starting to feel a bit more settled and organized, and I have a couple of reviews and giveaways coming up that I'm very excited about. If all goes as planned, I'll be posting again soon!

It's Over!

2011-03-08T22:40:00.003-08:00

On Monday our long journey in the realm of the unemployed and homeless ended. It's over. God is good and has provided a job for Ryan.

I laughed. I cried. And I still can't believe that it is true. Being without our own place to call home or our own resources has been our reality for so long that it is hard to imagine life being otherwise. However, it will be, and soon.

Ryan was hired on Monday by Wilco, a large farmer's co-op as an accountant at their main headquarters in Mt. Angel. He's to start tomorrow. You read that right. He was hired on Monday and starts tomorrow, which is Wednesday. Today the friend we are staying with kindly offered to watch the kids so that we could run around like chickens with our heads cut off in an attempt to find a place to live. We're putting in an application tomorrow for a place we both like and can afford, even if it is a bit further off of the beaten path than we had originally hoped for. It is currently available, just 10 minutes from work for Ryan, and we would potentially be able to move in in a matter of days.

We are so very thankful. Trying to find a place to live in such short order is a bit stressful, but we'll take this stress any day of the week over what we've been living with for the past many months. Please pray that this home we're hoping to get into works out, and that if it doesn't, something else will come up shortly. Very shortly.

Since we began this journey we've become different people, with different perspectives on many aspects of life. Hopefully those are sanctifying changes. We will never again think that supporting a family is as easy as just toughing up and getting a job. Because often, especially during a major recession, it isn't that easy. We've learned that mercy is much more needed and effective than "tough love" in many circumstances. And we've been the recipients of much mercy (and yes, "tough love," too).

Just when things seemed utterly hopeless and we weren't sure how we could carry on much longer, God scooped us up, and we find ourselves overwhelmed by blessings.

Wordless Wednesday--Birthday Cake and Refried Beans

2011-03-02T12:36:00.000-08:00

Gilead wasn't terribly enthusiastic about birthday cake, though he did have fun smashing it.

Refried beans, on the other hand, are another story!

Almost Goldfish...

2011-02-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

Do you remember those little bright orange goldfish crackers from gluten-consuming days? Who doesn't, right? And they seem to be a childhood staple--one that my children have had to do without.

A few weeks ago while perusing a new section at Safeway that was emblazoned with large signs on each side declaring it to be gluten-free I found a small package of cheese crackers by Schar. Of course, we had to try them.

As you can see, we didn't wait to take a picture before opening the package to try them. Nope, these obviously aren't goldfish. They are conspicuously minus that goldfish shape. They also aren't as orange. However, apart from that, they taste very much like a milder version of that cracker many of us grew up with.

When I gave Mercy her first one her response was "mmm, that's a treat!" But she hasn't been quite so enthusiastic since. I suppose that's alright--more for me!

Wordless Wednesday--Happy 1st Birthday Little Guy!

2011-02-16T08:20:00.000-08:00

Today is Gilead's first birthday, and our little guy is not so little anymore. This year has been such a whirlwind in so many ways, but I still can't believe that Gilead is now one. Happy Birthday Little Guy!

Our handsome, blue-eyed guy.

Wordless Wednesday--How Far Along Am I?

2011-02-09T06:40:00.000-08:00

In light of our recent news, and given the fact that given the circumstances of the preganancy I don't yet know how far along I am, I thought it would be fun to play a little game. Can you guess how far along I am? I have a guess based on past pregnancies, but in the end, I'm really not sure. I should be finding out in the next week or two.

I've gone from having a relatively flat stomach and having no clue I was pregnant to maternity clothes and this in less than three weeks. And yes, I'm well aware that I'm wearing that sick and exhausted pregnant look. I'm still trying to shake it.

So, how far along would you guess?

Wordless Wednesday--A Little Announcement...

2011-02-01T20:02:00.000-08:00

Surprise!

This is the big news at our house this week. I'm not sure when I'm due since my cycle never returned between Gilead and this little one, but I'm guessing this one is coming sometime this fall. We'll soon be a family of five!

Peter Rabbit Organics Winner!

2011-01-30T18:20:00.000-08:00

The Peter Rabbit Organics giveaway ended yesterday, and random.org selected a number from the 49 entries today. The winner is number 42. Tylerpants, you have 48 hours to contact me with your information so that your prize can be shipped to you.

Be watching for another exciting giveaway coming up soon--for a Strider PREbike!

Peter Rabbit Organics Review and Giveaway! CLOSED

2011-01-15T14:03:00.000-08:00

Peter Rabbit Organics was kind enough to send me three of their fruit snack pouches to try with Gilead a couple of months ago. Peter Rabbit Organics fruit snack pouches come in three delicious flavors--strawberry banana, apple grape, and mango banana orange and are suitable for babies and toddlers ages 6 months and up. All three were a hit with our little guy! And with his mommy, too...

Between traveling for the holidays and moving, we've stayed in five different places over the last month, and I was thrilled to discover that these pouches really are as easy to use as advertised. I didn't have to worry about a spoon at all--just toss the pouch in the diaper bag and know that there is food for Gilead when he needs it.

Peter Rabbit Organics is a British company whose products soon became so popular in the US that they began producing them right here in my home state of Oregon. I love finding a product that is gluten free, organic, and locally produced for my family. Very rarely do I find something that is all three!

Gluten Free Motherhood readers have the opportunity to win 10 pouches of Peter Rabbit Organics fruit snack pouches. Gilead and I highly recommend giving them a try!

Please leave one comment for each entry. For example, if an action is worth three entries, leave me three comments so as to maximize your chances of winning!

Mandatory Entry: Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood, or let me know if you already are (1 entry).

Bonus Entries:
1. Head on over to Peter Rabbit Organics and tell me one thing about the company not mentioned in this review. (1 entry)
2. Follow Gluten Free Motherhood on Twitter or let me know if you already do. (1 entry)
3. Follow Peter Rabbit Organics on Twitter. (1 entry)
4. Like Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook or let me know if you already do. (1 entry)
5. Like Peter Rabbit Organics on Facebook. (1 entry)
6. Tweet this giveaway. (1 entry per tweet. May do this once a day.)
7. Vote for Gluten Free Motherhood at We're on the Fence via the button on the right. (1 entry per vote. May do this once a day.)
8. Blog this giveaway. (3 entries)

Please leave your e-mail address in your entries so that I can contact you if you win. Giveaway is open to to those in the U.S. only. A winner will be selected using random.org on January 29 at 11:59pm Pacific Standard Time.

*Peter Rabbit Organics provided me with three fruit snack pouches for review. I was not compensated for this review in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Bit More Settled

2011-01-12T14:52:00.000-08:00

After gallivanting over much of Oregon and northern Idaho, we're finally back in a semi-permanent location. We enjoyed nearly three full weeks of being with family but are looking forward to being a bit less mobile. And, of course, this should mean that I'm able to get more posts up soon!

And here's some blog hopping fun.

Moving, Moving, and Moving Some More...

2011-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

There are so many things I'd like to post about, but this month has been wild. We're not only without our own home, but we're also in the midst of the holidays. In the past month we've packed up and moved on four times, and are headed to location number five tomorrow. We're beyond exhausted. So, hopefully soon things will settle down and I'll be able to get back to this poor, suffering blog a bit more often!

Souper Saturday Blog Hop Week 4!

2010-12-31T18:19:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone has a happy and safe New Years eve! Hello and welcome to week 4 of the Souper Saturday blog hop hosted by Welcome To My Kitchen, BarabaraBeat, One+One=4, Gluten Free Motherhood and SippyCupMom. Rules of the hop are the same and as simple as can be:

1. Follow all 5 hosts and leave a comment so we can follow you back. Please remember this step when linking up.

2. Follow as many blogs as possible. Everyone loves a friendly follow.

3. We would love it if you would post our button to invite all your friends but not required.

Wordless Wednesday--Holiday Happenings and Slumber Party!

2010-12-28T22:19:00.000-08:00

I've been a bit silent around here these past several days, but for good reason, I assure you. We've moved, had the stomach flu, traveled, done Christmas, and now have the stomach flu some more. Coming up, more traveling. Then more traveling. And hopefully no more stomach flu. Needless to say, we're all just a wee bit beat.

However, I have soaked up some time with my family. And last night Mercy's 3-1/2 year old cousin, Timothy, got to come over to where we're staying for a slumber party. Those two were like excited puppies for the duration. We tried to get a good picture of the two of them in new outfits when they were all spiffy clean after a bath, but getting a 2 yr. old and a 3 yr. old to sit still for long and smile at the camera at the same time isn't easy...

GrammiesQuiltz Burp Cloth Winner!

2010-12-21T11:39:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Erica, the winner of the GrammiesQuiltz Burp Cloth set with comment number 41. You have 48 hours to be in touch with me with your contact information and print choice before I will be forced to draw a new winner.

If you didn't win remember that you can still head on over to GrammiesQuiltz to purchase your favorite set--including those personalized and NFL prints!

Souper Saturday Blog Hop Week 3!

2010-12-17T17:12:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to week 3 of the Souper Saturday blog hop hosted by Welcome To My Kitchen, BarabaraBeat, One+One=4, Gluten Free Motherhood (that's me!) and SippyCupMom. Rules of the hop are the same and as simple as can be:

1. Follow all 5 hosts and leave a comment so we can follow you back.
2. Follow as many blogs as possible. Everyone loves a friendly follow.
3. We would love it if you would post our button to invite all your friends but not required.

First Foods: Plum Organics Fiddlesticks

2010-12-17T15:35:00.000-08:00

When I started this blog I had ambitions of doing a series on gluten-free first foods for baby. However, things never go as planned. For those of you who are unaware, my family has found itself in a tricky position. My husband is one of those well educated people (a master's in accountancy), who, through no fault of his own, has found himself unable to find a job since graduation. Therefore, our little family is currently pretty nomadic since we have no home of our own. Just this month we'll have been in four places.

More than ever, we're having to rely on God for the "little things." Things that aren't little at all, but we tend to take for granted, like the roof over our heads.

And my faith is often too small, which leaves me stressed and preoccupied. Hence, fewer meaningful posts than I have intended.

But, here is one of those posts. I have recently discovered yet another gluten-free finger food for little ones. Plum Organics Fiddlesticks. I remember seeing these as a new item at our local food co-op after Mercy was eating "normal" food well and no longer required things designed to break down well. I've known mothers who don't really feed their babies "baby finger foods" and jump straight to pieces of table food. Either they know some super-mom secret that I don't, or my children's GERD keeps their gag reflexes too sensitive for that. I'm inclined toward the latter. Gilead is just now eating things like small bits of soft pear, potato, and cooked carrots without throwing up over it.

However, Gilead loves fiddlesticks in both berry and apple carrot. I'm pretty sure there are more flavors, but I haven't seen them locally. The box says they are for ages 12 months and over, but he does fine with them at just barely 10 months. I'm inclined to think the age recommendation results from the egg in the ingredient list. Last I knew recommendations were changing and they were finding no adverse affects if eggs were introduced in small quantities before one year.

I also love that fiddlesticks are higher in calories than many other "learning to eat" food. Baby MumMums contain a mere 15 calories in two crackers. Fiddlesticks contain 20 per stick--so two of them is a decent snack for Little Guy.

Fiddlesticks aren't the least expensive first food on the market at $3.50 to $3.99 for a box of 12 at our local natural foods store. However, he doesn't get them every day, so we only go through about two boxes a month, which isn't too terrible in the end. We've been very happy about find one more easy snack food for our babies and anticipate that there will be more in the future since celiac isn't so uncommon as was once believed.

ERGObaby Teething Pad Winner!

2010-12-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

The giveaway for the ERGObaby Teething Pads ended last night, and Random.org has selected a winner. Congratulations to eek031880 who left comment number 69! You have 48 hours to contact me with your contact information and color selection before I will have to draw a new winner. Enjoy your new ERGObaby Teething Pads!

Sunday Blog Hops

2010-12-12T09:59:00.000-08:00

Souper Saturday Blog Hop Week 2

2010-12-10T20:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome To week 2 of the Souper Saturday blog hop hosted by Welcome To My Kitchen, BarbarasBeat, GlutenFreeMotherHood, One+One+4 and SippyCupMom

Rules for the hop are simple:

1. Follow all five hosts.

3. Leave a comment so we can follow you back

4. Follow as many new friends as possible and most of all have fun. Posting our button would be a nice
gesture but not required. Have a Souper Saturday!

GrammiesQuiltz Burp Cloth Giveaway!

2010-12-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

Both of my children have had GERD as infants. Needless to say, I do tons of laundry in their first six months, and still more than the average mom for at least their first year. Mercy didn't stop spitting up until a month or so before her second birthday.

It goes without saying that a good burp cloth is important to us. I have tried many that are cute, but simply don't absorb much. They might be fine if your baby dribbles a bit, but they do absolutely nothing for regurgitating professionals like my kiddos. I was very excited to find the adorable burp cloths by Romy at GrammiesQuiltz one day when I was perusing Etsy for the perfect rag.

GrammiesQuiltz was kind enough to send a burp cloth for Gilead and me to try.

The cloth is a rag quilt in miniature on the top and a solid piece of flannel on the bottom.

As you can see, this burp cloth is adorable--and I was thrilled to discover that it is absorbent enough for even my heavy spitters! This is most definitely a must have for parents of reflux babies.

GrammiesQuiltz also makes lovely rag quilts, crayon kits, and other wonderful gifts for the little ones (and not so little ones) in your life. While you're there take your time to look around!

GrammiesQuiltz has agreed to send a set of two burp cloths in the print of choice to one lucky reader of Gluten Free Motherhood. This is a giveaway worth entering for any parent of an infant--who doesn't need a few wonderful burp cloths?

Rules: Be sure to leave your e-mail address in each comment so that I can contact you if you win. This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only. Giveaway excludes personalized and NFL prints. Please leave one comment for each entry (i.e., if an action is worth more than one entry leave the appropriate number of comments.).

Mandatory Entries:

1. Head on over to GrammiesQuiltz and leave a comment letting me know which print you would like your burp cloths in if you win. (1 entry)
2. Become a follower of Gluten Free Motherhood, or let me know if you already are. (1 entry)

Extra Entries:

1. "Favorite" GrammiesQuiltz on Etsy. (2 entries)
2. "Favorite" your choice of burp cloth prints (or more items!)at GrammiesQuiltz. (1 entry)
3. "Like" Gluten Free Motherhood on Facebook. (1 entry)
4. Follow Gluten Free Motherhood on Twitter. (2 entries)
5. Tweet this giveaway on Twitter. May do once a day. (1 entry per daily tweet)
6. Share this giveaway on Facebook. (1 entry)
7. Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link to your post. (3 entries)

I will select a winner using random.org and contact the winner via e-mail as well as post the winner. The winner will then have 48 hours to contact me with an address and a confirmation of his/her selection. If I don't hear back from the winner in the allotted amount of time I will be forced to select a new one. Giveaway ends on December 20, 2010 at 11:59pm PST.

Souper Saturday Blog Hop!

2010-12-03T21:06:00.000-08:00

Welcome To the first week of Souper Saturday Blog Hop, hosted by Welcome To My Kitchen, One+One=Four, BarbarasBeat, Sippy Cup Mom and GlutenFreeMotherHood.The rules for the hop are simple:

1. Follow all five hosts and leave a comment so we can follow you back.

2. Follow as many blogs as you can.

3. We would also appreciate you posting our button so everyone can participate. We look forward to meeting many new followers. This will be a weekly blog hop.

4. Please follow all blog hop rules so everyone can benefit.

Wordless Wednesday--Mercy's new Carseat

2010-11-30T21:43:00.000-08:00

Gilead is long, and it occurred to me earlier this week that, in light of that, I should check on the size limits for his Graco Snugride carseat. Sure enough, he's too tall. Therefore, we ordered the next seat for Mercy, a Britax Frontier 85, so that he could move into her Britax Boulevard. We pinch pennies hard in most areas of life, but have decided that safety seats for the kiddos isn't one area we feel comfortable doing so.

I guess that wasn't so wordless.

Anyway, Mercy likes her new seat. Quite a lot...

In case you were wondering, these were taken in the living room. We decided to get it all adjusted for her before going out into the wet and cold to install it in the car...

And while you're here, don't forget to enter the giveaway for ERGObaby teething pads!

An Apology

2010-11-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

I know I've been pretty quiet this last week. As some of you may know, my husband has been unemployed since graduating in May, which has led to a rather nomadic lifestyle as of late. We're having to move on again into another friends home. We've been very blessed to have friends who are gracious enough to host us. So, things have been, and will be, a bit crazy for a bit!

In the meantime, here's another hop.

Monday Hops

2010-11-28T22:33:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to enter the ERGObaby Teething Pad giveaway while you're here!

Weekend Hops

2010-11-25T22:15:00.001-08:00

While you're here, don't forget to enter the ERGObaby teething pads giveaway here. And if you'd like to know about the family behind this blog you can find our family blog here.