"Sea Snax" a Healthy Snacking Alternative in Your GF World.......by Ann Oliphant, CNC

 

In the neverending quest for not just gluten-free but gluten-free and healthy snacks, I have recently come across what just may become your new snack-of-choice....Sea Snax.  Yes, these little dark green sheets are seaweed and they are good! 

                                                                                   

Little, wispy sheets of slightly salty, goodness.  Sea Snax come in handy little containers, perfect for packing in a lunch for work, school or travel.  I like that while you are snacking you also are the recipent of some decent nutrition here!  What other "snack" food packs a wallop of iodine?  Iodine is sorely lacking in many of our diets and unfortunately iodized salt does not cut it, especially with so many on doctor's orders to lower sodium intake.  Iodine is necessary, vital even, for thyroid function and breast health.  You get approximately 15mcg. in a sheet of Nori.  That's substantial!  They are ofcourse also gluten free.  Check out additonal nutritional value (tons of trace minerals) on their FAQ page at www.seasnax.com                     

Sea Snax also comes in a larger sheet...I can see using these on sandwiches; gluten free bread, avocado, sprouts...a littleVegenaise...good stuff!  See their website for additional product line recipes.

You will also appreciate Sea Snax is Non-GMO verified.  Sea Snax can be found at Whole Foods, Earth Fare and other natural foods stores in the area.  Be sure and visit their website for the complete line of good-for-you snacks and order options.

Aside from the website above, follow Sea Snax on Twitter @SeaSnax and find them also on FB.  You may become such the fanatic you feel compelled to purchase one of the SeaSnax hats or tees (available online). 

Wholesome Junk Food ?! .......by Ann Oliphant, CNC

Recognize this little tub of goodness?  If you are not familiar, these little mint-brownie balls ("bite-lettes") are really just what the label proclaims,  "wholesome junk food"...and they taste good.  Though lacking the official (and expensive) "certified gluten free" insignia, 3 of  Dr. Laura's products do not contain gluten; Cole's Cashew, Better Brownie and my favorite, "Mint Double Fudge".  All are balls, or more eloquently,  "bite-lettes".

 

Personally, I am hesitant to purchase or recommend any sort of  already-put-together product.  An "already-put-together" product, conventionally speaking, would be referred to as a "processed" food which generally is not good and quite the opposite of wholesome.  Dr. Laura's Wholesome Junk Food is wholesome, and though she produces other great tasting "bite-lettes", the three I mentioned above contain no gluten although you will not find the "certified gluten free" stamp on which many people base their puirchase decision.  For the most part I lean toward having that stamp on purchase decisions regarding cookies, crackers  and chips.  With Dr. Laura's I make an exception.

 

I trust her. I trust her medical knowledge.  I trust her personal level of involvement in her company and the way in which she allows her products to be produced.  Do your homework, and I think you will find that same level of trust...and you're going to like your afternoon french press/tea a whole lot better with a couple of bite-lettes....a clean treat!        

Next time you're out, look for Dr. Laura's at Whole Foods, Earth Fare and some of the local Harris Teeter stores...

*find Dr. Laura's bite-lettes, and other wholesome junk food (even a cookbook!) at www.lauraswholesomejunkfood.com

Whole Foods Market Opening Day Announced...by Ann Oliphant, CNC

Whole Foods Market has announced their opening day here in Charlotte---mark your calendars for....Wednesday, August 29, 2012.  You can find them on Facebook (Whole Foods Charlotte) and follow on Twitter at WFMSharonRoad.  See you there!

Saturday Suggestion...August 4, 2012 by Ann Oliphant CNC

Need an exciting suggestion for your Saturday?? The official store opening date is set for Wednesday, August 29, 2012 however,  this Saturday, August 4, 2012 is the last day you can catch Whole Foods Market and their pop-up location at the 7th Street Public Market...check out details here!  http://www.7thstreetpublicmarket.com/

Don't forget your local area Farmer's Market this Saturday...support the fine people bringing us healthy, wholesome fruits, vegetables, meats, homemade pies--oh!--some markets have the occasional gluten free baked goods vendor appear so be sure you make the rounds and check it out--also look for homemade preserves, cooking demos and more....reminder; most deal in cash...bring your own bags/boxes.....coolers, if you don't plan on getting back home soon afterward...get there early for the best selections...and lastly, best to leave your pet at home, even though these are mostly, if not all, outdoor venues, we still have food-sold-in-same-location issue...here we have some fun suggestions:     www.matthewsfarmersmarket.com   

Here's to a fun, clean-eating (clean shopping?) weekend!     

Still Suffering? A Quick Recommendation by Ann Oliphant, CNC

I wanted to jump on here briefly regarding ongoing sub-par-health--post gluten-free diet...after the previous feature post mentioning cosmetics, shampoos, and other personal care products that may continue to be causing symptoms in some celiacs and gluten intolerants, I also wanted to  mention the proteins in other grains. 

If you have given the gluten free diet a fair chance i.e.,  2-6 months and sometimes a full year;  it may be that a grain-free diet is what it is going to require. I know. Hard stuff.  We thought it was difficult enough avoiding the gluten-filled mine fields all around us, however, in order to completely eliminate the underground workings of these inflammation-causing proteins, it may take cutting out more than the gluten found in wheat, barley and rye. 

For further reading, here is one book/site suggestion:  http://www.breakingtheviciouscycle.info/home/   There are some other good grain-free books and cookbooks out there as well.  I would suggest taking a look at  Elana Amsterdam's site, www.elanaspantry.com  Not only does Elana have great recipes but she has lived this.  Like many of us, she also has a personal story, a journey leading up to the necessitating of going completely grain free.

Remember when going gluten free was completely daunting?  Maybe it's the same with grain-free.
In time it all becomes second nature and you get to feel better, making it all worthwhile.

Ann Oliphant, CNC

Looking for Healthy Make-Up & Skin Care? Mineral Fusion Delivers! by Ann Oliphant, CNC

Sensitive skin most usually goes along with a sensitive GI tract....thus the need for make-up and skin care that cosmetically and dermatologically delivers exactly what you are looking for without all the "extras".  Extras such as parabens, talc and other chemicals that can set off an inflammatory response in those of us with sensitivity issues.  Mineral Fusion and their tag line of "minerals on a mission" prove it is possible to create healthier (and gluten free) make-up and skin care.

So many celiacs and gluten intolerants find they are not feeling as well as they think they could/should on a gluten free diet alone.  The missing link almost always is either in their dietary supplements or....what is going on their skin.  This would include anything you put on your body; shampoos, lotions, make-up and skincare products. This is why pharmaceuticals sometimes use the skin patch delivery method.  It is absorbed through your skin and eventually gets to your bloodstream.  I've heard a number of people say they were never really "well" until these final areas were addressed.  Thankfully, we have companies like Mineral Fusion who provide products without:  gluten, parabens, artificial colors, talc and, as an added bonus...no animal testing!

My favorite product-and also the favorite among the samples I handed out to other zero-tolerance-for- gluten girls is the lip gloss.  When you become so accustomed to being a bit over zealous and anxiety-ridden over what even comes within millimeters of your mouth, you do appreciate a good, clean lip gloss! Not just "clean" but also cosmetically speaking, it ranks right up there with the best.  No gooey, gloppy, hair magnet here-just great color and long-lasting shine.

The mascara was also big--who wants parabens any where near their eye?  No wheat germ oil (i.e. possible gluten itchiness reaction) either. Perfect.  Does everything you want it to too; no flaking, no smudging, no clumping and comes off easily with soap and water. 

The picture of the serum here in this post is a tube that is actually almost empty...which would be mine.  This goes on light and clear...contains all manner of good things like zinc, echinacea, gingko biloba leaf extract, aloe and rosemary not to mention magnesium, copper and natural peptides.  Good stuff without gluten, parabens, SLS, phthalates, artificial colors and also never tested on animals. 

I really do love this line.  I've ordered from them before and just so you know, usually you will find an added sample or two of other products you might like tucked in your box.  Mineral Fusion can be found at Whole Foods and I believe Earth Fare carries some of their line as well.  You can always order online and see their whole product availability at www.mineralfusion.com . 

Age-Defying Treatment Serum

Minerals on a Mission!

"Enlighten" Lip Gloss

Mascara in "Graphite"

Ready-to-Eat Meals from "GOPICNIC" by Ann Oliphant, CNC

Good news for we gluten-free Charlotteans this Spring!  Whether we are taking our workout outdoors to one of the local trails or once again finding ourselves wandering around the Charlotte-Douglass airport (or any airport looking for something we can eat...) we now have, courtesy of a new product from "gopicnic"...

*ready-to-eat" meals                                                            

*gluten free

*all-natural (could it get any better?!)

*vegan

*atleast one kosher

*atleast one "free of 7 common allergens" (!)

*perfect sized; re-sealable-lunchbox-style containers

*no transfats, HFCS, no MSG

*requires absolutely no refrigeration

*no sulfites; no casein

Now, as to what is inside?  On average, boxes contain a total of 400-500 calories, 9-12g of fiber and 12-25g protein. Perfection.  The "Sunbutter & Crackers" box contains a balanced meal of sunflower butter, multi-grain crackers (yes! gluten free), seed & fruit trail mix, tropical fruit bites and a double chocolate cookie.  As for the "Hummus & Crackers" meal, this contained a "wild-garden" hummus dip, multi-seed crackers, fruit & nut mix, dry roasted edamame and a dark chocolate square. 

We who have food sensitivities and intolerances know just how great it is to have a product like this.  I was told they were available at most Target stores in addition to many airports.  I did not have any luck locating GoPicnic at one local Target store here in Charlotte; my only complaint is these wonderful, save-the-day (and mood!) mini food boxes are not located everywhere.  Off the top of my head, I would say local gyms would also be a great location but as we can all probably agree, the airport food court trumps all!  If these boxes were only located in airports that would be enough but let's hope these are soon made  readily available everywhere so that kids who require special diets also have a "lunch" box they can call their own or parents, who would just like a healthy alternative to similar although full-of-ickiness conventional meal-in-a-box products. 

These boxes can be taken on long car rides and left in the car for a period of time without fear of spoilage--perfect for driving to the mountains for long weekend hikes this Spring. 

All of the products contained in these boxes are also available individually and may be recognizable to many of us; products by Enjoy Life, SunButter and CrunchMaster to name a few.  Be sure and read the boxes when purchasing; GoPicnic does make a ready to eat meal that is not gluten free. 

If you have trouble locating GoPicnic, you can find them at www.gopicnic.com or you may call 773-328-2490. 

New Creations from Udi's Gluten Free Foods, by Ann Oliphant, CNC

A few days ago I received a box full of gluten-free deliciousness from Udi's.  Those of us who have been eating this way for any period of time are most likely already very familiar with Udi's muffins, bagels, pizza crusts and cookies.  Udi's is well known for their great-tasting and even preferred-0ver-similar-conventional-products line. 

I was already acquainted with some of these items and imagined quite a few of you were as well, but there also were some surprises, which I am happy to report fall right in line with the high quality taste and texture we have come to expect from Udi's. 

Topping the list, and disappearing the fastest in our home were the new "Brownie Bites".  Everything you love about a brownie?
This is it.

Also, the new and very clever "Blueberry Oat Muffin Tops"...that's right, "tops" as in no more tossing the bottom half or eating a whole muffin when you really just want to get to the best part...now the best part is actually all there is to these moist, perfect-sized and individually wrapped "tops".  Very portable too, which is huge when your on-the-go "energy boost" must be gluten-free!

In our pantry, Udi's Granola is a mainstay and the new Cranberry Granola will be a welcome addition.  It is the best granola, hands-down, and in my opinion, better than any conventional brand out there.  The new Cranberry is very good and having the variety is nice but the favorite here is the "Vanilla".  Keep any of Udi's granola on hand to create a quick and easy yogurt parfait; for those of us who are also casein sensitive, try Redwood Hill Farm's Non-Fat Goat Yogurt.  Layer with fresh berries, Udi's granola, a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of raw, organic Agave syrup. Even the pickiest of eaters will not turn away!

Udi's was also gracious enough to include their pizza crusts which when placed in front of you is like having a great white canvas, ready to top however you wish.  Following a gluten-free diet does not feel limiting at all when you create something like this:

Oh the possibilities!  Organic tomato sauce, goat cheese, baby kale, gluten-free/nitrate/nitrite free pepperoni, organic portabello mushrooms, organic red pepper flakes & all  manner of antioxidant rich herbs; basil, oregano and of course, garlic.  In the 400 degree pre-heated oven for 10 minutes and...healthy, gluten-free perfection!

Thank you Udi's for sharing your newest offerings...the g-free
community is much appreciative! 

Udi's products can be found locally in Charlotte at Earthfare and other natural foods stores.

Charlotte, NC Bloggers Needed

Live in Charlotte, NC?

Live the Gluten Free Lifestyle?

Interested in helping others in your city?

If you have any questions or interest writing about Charlotte please email me.

Gluten-Free MeetUp Anyone?!

I have had some extra time on my hands. This is not usually the norm for me, so I definitely took advantage of it. It has left me moments to think and boy have I been thinking! My thoughts are directing towards an idea:

A meetup, of sorts, at a gluten-free establishment for those of us in the Charlotte area to get together and enjoy a fun night of safe food, drink and lovely conversation.

This idea has been done before, but not many people have ever joined in. I used to love going out and meeting up with others for gluten-free fare when I lived in NYC. Now, I want to translate that to the Charlotte area.

Whose in?! Leave a comment and let me know. Your response matters - knowing you'll attend is a huge part of this idea actually working.

So excited to possibly meet you all:-)

Chelsea Clinton, Fiance, Family & Friends Dine on Gluten-Free Cake

I am not sure if anyone else caught this little tid bit of information, but someone very important and known for her famous parents got married this weekend...and she had a gluten-free cake!

Yes, I swear I am not lying - Chelsea Clinton said her I do's then spent the rest of the night sharing an all vegan menu and gluten-free cake (from La Tulipe Bakery in NYC) with her guests. While she is not gluten-free, nor is her fiance, they are mindful of what they eat.

Check out a write-up about Chelsea's wedding choices here:
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/38500111/ns/today-today_weddings/

Here is an article more about the all-alternative banquets increasing in request - great news for us gluten-free kids: http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/38474741/ns/today-foodwine

As many people say, "Any press is good press". In this case, it really is!

My Udi's "Breakfast of Champions"

Some people eat cereal and others do omelette's, waffles and/or pancakes for Sunday morning breakfast, I on the other hand had Udi's Double Chocolate Muffins and Udi's Cinnamon Rolls. The true breakfast of champions! My mission was not complete and these treats were 2 more out of the 4 items I needed to try. Besides the sugar rush I experienced so early on in the day, the efforts were well worth it.

To begin this "breakfast" of mine, I started with an Udi's Cinnamon Roll. It was straight out of the fridge and still very cold, which made for a slightly harder Roll. To soften it up some, I placed it in the oven on hi broil for a few minutes or just until brown and giving to my touch. While the Roll heated through, I took the very convenient frosting pack which comes with a box of 4 Cinnamon Rolls (2 frosting to every 4 Rolls) and heated that in the microwave so it would spread smooth. The cold frosting is very hard to spread so I recommend heating it. After both were ready, I squeezed the frosting on top of the Roll and spread it all out (I love a ton of frosting so I usually make a pile on the side for dipping as well :-) ) Then I unraveled the whole bun and ate it layer by layer - my favorite!

Overall, the Cinnamon Buns were very good. I think they need a good heating prior to eating for best results, but otherwise leave my taste buds satisfied and sometimes begging for more.

For the second portion of my breakfast, I sank my teeth into Udi's Double Chocolate Muffins. If nothing else, they were choco-tastic! My preference is a heated muffin with gooey chocolate, but I did try it as is and they weren't bad. The muffin is flaky and easy to break apart, a bit dense though. Once I heated them in the oven on hi broil they were at their best. The chocolate was runny, the outside a little toasty (muffin tops anyone?!) and the flavor was spot on. Definitely a winner that I would eat over and over again.

The best part about both of these Udi's treats is they can be eaten as is, microwaved for a quick heated treat and/or toasted in the oven for an anytime tasty delight. Keep in mind as well, another great perk to all of Udi's great foods is they are not just gluten free, but soy free, dairy free and nut free. Seriously allergy friendly, tasty delicious, wonderful treats!

It's bagelicious Tuesday! This morning, my internal alarm clock forced me to rise 20 minutes earlier than normal, thus leaving me with additional time to make an extra special breakfast. An Udi's Plain Bagel uber delicious breakfast at that!

After removing the zip tie from the bag, I proceeded to try one of the bagels in its "natural" state. Now, I should probably highlight that I am not a big fan of bready foods. I like things crunchy. Regardless, I was strongly misguided in thinking I might not enjoy the bagel based solely on its appearance. In fact, it was light and airy just like its counterpart, Udi's sandwich bread.

Still, I am an experimenter. Having tried the bagel in its "natural" state, I was ready to spice things up a bit. Since I don't have a toaster, I improvised with the oven broiler, and toasted my bagel to perfection. I like my bread a bit on the darker side, as you can see below in the picture, however, toast it to your liking - my way is
not the only way.

My favorite line from all cooking shows, "I wish there was smell-o-vision!" about sums up my toasted bagel experience. It smelled heavenly and tasted even better. After taking the photo, I spread each half with peanut butter - a condiment that is extremely healthy for you being high in protein and good carbs - again, eat the bagel as you like it most, though. My boyfriend loves his bagels spread with cream cheese and strawberry jelly and my friend loves a good "cheese shmeer and lox with onions and tomatoes" (she says it just like that too). Eat as you will.

This being my first bagel in probably 4 or 5 years, though, that first bite quickly turned into crumbs left on the napkin. It was that good. So good that I highly recommend Udi's Plain Bagels. In fact I recommend any one of their breads.

I cannot wait to continue this Udi's product tasting journey - Bagels down, Double Chocolate Chip Muffins - Cinnamon Rolls - and Pizza Crusts left to go. Vroom Vroom Baby!

Free Treats Courtesy of Udi's

Oh me, oh my - I have been asked to give Udi's a try!

About a month ago, I wrote a post all about Udi's new relationship with Jason's Deli. Since then, word of my blog reached the Social Media Coordinator for Udi's, Jillian. She loved how I was spreading the news and offered to send me a box of different products to try. Of course I said yes - who wouldn't?!

The "box" greeted me on my doorstep one night after work last week. I immediately brought it inside and ripped it open, pulling out the contents in a rush. Inside were Udi's Plain Bagels, Cinnamon Rolls, Double Chocolate Muffins (heaven!) and Pizza Crusts - 3 to a bag. It felt like my birthday - unwrapping gifts and not being able to contain my want to try them out as soon as possible - so exciting!

Due to work and social obligations, I have not been home much the past week, leaving little time to try these tasty morsels. It is my mission though, over the course of this upcoming week to try each product and let you know all about it. I can tell you from looks and smells alone, the Double Chocolate Muffins are going to be out of this world and the bagels, if the other breads are any indication, are going to be amazing.

So check back frequently as I take this delicious journey down Udi's Tasting Lane...definitely a road worth traveling :-)

Vivace Shines! Gluten-Free Menu is Unlike Anything Else Available in Charlotte, NC

Happy 25th Birthday to me! This "new year" was brought in with a bang, that is for sure. First, my little brother, Justin, - he is 21 - came for a surprise visit. He drove 10 hours from Indiana, just to see me and get a look at the wonderful city of Charlotte, NC. Of course he loved it! We walked around Uptown, took in the Charlotte nightlife at the Epicentre and ate out often. It was wonderful.

Although he left on Sunday to head back to Indiana, the fun continued into Monday. My boyfriend, Adam, and I worked through the day and met back at our townhouse after to dress for dinner, which was a surprise to me. It was a great surprise - we went to Vivace.

Vivace had a pulse unlike any other restaurant I had been to in Charlotte yet. The atmosphere was warm, the host/waiters extremely attentive and the food was absolutely decadent...and 100% gluten-free. There was even a menu dedicated to it!

Upon arrival, a hostess walked us through the downstairs portion of the restaurant, which was alive with the music of chefs at work preparing edible works of art from the open kitchen and a lounge/bar for those after work cocktails we all crave, and up the stairs to our table. It was set for two and sat near a panel of windows floor to ceiling tall overlooking the Charlotte skyline. While it was very bright, even at 8pm, it was a gorgeous addition to our romantic birthday celebration.

The menu had many different options, so it was extremely hard to make a decision. In fact, if I could have stomached it, I would have had one of everything, it all sounded so delicious. Instead, I compromised and ordered an Antipasti, Primi and Secondi. If I could not have one of everything, I was at least going to try an item from each section of the menu. Below is a look at exactly what I ate:

Antipasti: Heirloom Tomato Salad with Fresh Jumbo Lump Crab and an Infused Lemon Vinaigrette



Primi: Chicken Risotto with Ripened Cherries and Toasted Pine Nuts
Secondi: Grouper with Fresh Lump Crab, Seasonal Vegetables, Creamy Polenta and a Carrot Infused Vinaigrette


The food was so good. I am sorry to disappoint,though, but I did not have dessert. There were many selections to choose from, however, I just could not eat another bite. Regardless, the meal took about two hours to complete and was savored every minute along the way. Without a second thought, I would recommend Vivace as a restaurant to be tried soon. The food was delectable, the Chefs are masterful artists and the managers/owners deserve a pat on the back for marrying a trendy, warm atmosphere with food to match.

Vivace is located at 1100 Metropolitan Avenue, Building E, Suite 100 - by the Target and Trader Joe's in Uptown Charlotte. Reservations can be made online at www.opentable.com or by phone at 704-370-7755. To read more about Vivace and see a menu, go to www.vivacecharlotte.com.

Please stop by and mention Leah from the Gluten-Free Charlotte blog sent you. It is absolutely worth it!

pinkberry Comes to Charlotte - Frozen Yogurt That Will Leave Your Tastebuds Begging For More

I have got great news! How many of you out there love frozen yogurt, but hate having to eat from the carton bought at a grocery store instead of out with all your friends? Well you will not have to much longer - pinkberry is coming to Charlotte!

What is pinkberry you ask? Only the best "frozen yogurt" ever. Being a native of the tri-state area and having worked in New York City for 3 years, I have spent many an hour devouring this heavenly delight. It is "...home to Swirly Goodness. Inspired by European gelaterias and yogurterias, Pinkberry's distinctive yogurt flavors are expertly crafted to complement its high quality, daily fresh cut fruit and dry toppings and offer an irresistibly tangy, incomparably refreshing taste so light it leaves you craving more". In a nutshell, on a scale from 1-10, it is a whopping 11 for me! A small fact to throw out there as well, all of pinkberry's frozen yogurt flavors are gluten-free, non-fat and minimal calories. Plus, you create your own cup of yummy goodness mixing as many flavors and toppings as you want.

The new pinkberry is opening a store front at Phillip's Place on Fairview Road next Friday, July 23rd. The Grand Opening will be held on Thursday, July 22nd where free yogurt will be handed out, a band will be playing for all to enjoy and prizes will be dispersed. It is an event not to be missed - or at least a frozen yogurt not to go untried.

I promise you will not be let down if you go out of your way for this sumptuous treat. It is so delicious, a deal was just signed for the second pinkberry to be installed at the Arboretum.

The website link is below to read more about pinkberry. Hopefully you will check the store out and let me know what you think. Good or bad I love hearing your opinions.

http://www.pinkberry.com/

Jason's Deli & Udi's Team Up to Offer Gluten-Free Goodness

Good Morning Everyone! It is a beautiful Sunday morning - the sun is out, the birds are chirping - what better way to spend it than writing a new post?!

So I want to begin by telling you a story. On Thursday I was doing my usual routine, got into work and checked-up on the news online, and came upon a news release. It mentioned that Jason's Deli was now serving gluten-free bread. I am not sure about all of you, but I was practically jumping out of seat in excitement - I haven't had a real sandwich OUT in forever! Well, I was at work, so I kept my composure (very hard to do) and went about my day. That night, another birdie in a tree mentioned Jason's Deli's new initiative once again. Two times in one day I was told about this, I knew I now had to check it out.

On Friday, a couple of co-workers and I went on over to Jason's Deli and it was true! While they are not making their own bread, they have partnered with Udi's. I had never had Udi's before then, but man was it good (see pics below). The bread was airy and light and tasted amazing toasted. Plus it didn't get all soggy from the sandwich ingredients. Amazing!






One thing to keep in mind when going though, they do not use separate toaster's for the gluten-free bread. Also, they are trained to switch knives and gloves and clean off the cutting boards, but of course since it is not a 100% gluten-free establishment, it is always important to keep an eye on things while your sandwich is being made. Regardless, disclaimer said, Jason's Deli is amazing, even more so now that they have added gluten-free bread onto their menu.

So take a drive, stop at Jason's Deli, order a sandwich and enjoy:-)

Gluten-Free Cooking Class - July 26th - Must Go!

Now I know it may seem like all I can talk about is The Thoughtful Baker, but I swear it is just ironic that I met the woman behind the company last week and I am now posting about another event involving her coming up soon. I swear!

Thanks to Zach and his amazing knack for unearthing events happening in North Carolina, I am happy to tell you about an upcoming cooking class that might be of interest. The information is below:

Gluten Free Cooking

Date:	July 26, 2010
Time:	6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location:	Charlotte Ballantyne Earth Fare
Admission:	Free
Contact:	clt120community@earthfare.com
With 90 degree heat, make this fun no cooking needed entrée! Please join Barbara D’Ambrosio, of The Thoughtful Baker, at Earth Fare Ballantyne Monday July 26, 6:30 pm for her free cooking class and learn to make this easy family treat! Fragrant fresh basil and cilantro, shrimp or chicken and cool summer vegetables are nestled in rice wrapper pouches that you and your family will have fun making together. Dip these flavorful treats in sun butter sauce (instead of peanut sauce) and a citrus based traditional dipping sauce. Barbara will share additional treats from her gluten free bakery to top off the class. To signup please call 704.926.1201.

If anything, the class is totally worth attending just for the baked goods alone - no joke, they are that good!

I am planning to attend myself, if you plan on going, let me know. I am always psyched to share my experiences with others:-)

The Thoughtful Baker & Then Some...

Talk about an exciting week! Not only have I joined the first ever Charlotte, NC Gluten Free Expo events team, but I also met the Thoughtful Baker, Ms. Barbara D'Ambrosio herself. She is absolutely amazing and her cinnamon roll cakes are to die for. At a meeting last Thursday she brought them with her and I nearly died and went to heaven. They are fabulous morsels which were made without wheat, gluten and/or dairy. Awesome! And, of course, she is just as wonderful. Very friendly, witty and easy going - even that is not doing her justice. All I can say is, if you are attending the expo, she will be there and you must go by to say hello. She is really "all that and a bag of chips"!

Now, what was I doing that I met her you ask? Well, I had dropped a line to the originator of the Gluten Free Expo in Charlotte, Ms. Nikki Everett, and received a call back. Seems their planning is moving right along, but they could use an extra hand. So on Thursday night, I hauled myself from work in Uptown to the Dillworth area and met the ladies for my first of a handful of meetings to come. It was there I met Barbara. We chatted, we shared information, we laughed. It was great.

The event is going to be a success you should not miss. Whether you are coming to the event or not, though, I will be photographing as much as I can and giving you all the updates. Who was there? What were they sampling? What is new? What was the best and just okay? You name it, I will tell you all about it. Leave a comment if you want to know anything in particular. If you are going to be there, I would love to catch up as well - just let me know. I will be the perky blonde in staff clothing:)

Can't Wait!

Check out The Thoughtful Baker, LLC. website at www.TheThoughtfulBaker.com - its tasty.

Gluten Free Expo Coming to Charlotte!!

This just in, a Gluten Free Expo is coming to Charlotte on August 7th. It will be hosted at the Johnson & Wales University/Charlotte Campus from 10AM - 4PM. In order to attend you must pre-register, attendance is limited to 350 people. So hurry and sign up!

There will be over 40 different vendors, including: Farmo Pasta, The Thoughtful Baker, Attune Probiotic Wellness Bars and so many more.

Also, Chef Peter Reinhart from Johnson & Wales will be demoing throughout the day. Plus, Dr. Ivor Hill, Chief Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Wake Forest Medical University will be speaking on "Celiac Disease:What's New".

Don't miss out on this. The link to learn more about the expo and pre-register is below.

http://charlottegfexpo.blogspot.com/

I will be in attendance so let me know via email if you decide to go too. Hope to see you all there!