WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS

SCARY MARY SAYS BE SAFE ON BONFIRE NIGHT AND USE THE FIREWORK CODE

 

 

SCARY MARY SAYS SAFEY FIRST

 

The Firework Code

Always follow the firework code, stick to these simple rules, and be safe this bonfire night.

• only buy fireworks marked BS 7114

• don’t drink alcohol if you’re setting off fireworks

• store fireworks in a closed box

• follow the instructions on each firework

• light fireworks at arm’s length, using the taper provided

• stand well back

• never go near a firework that has been lit – even if it hasn’t gone off it could still explode

• never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them

• always supervise children around fireworks

• light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves

• never give sparklers to a child under five

• keep pets indoors

• don’t set off noisy fireworks late at night and never after 11.00pm (except on certain occasions)

• take care around open flames such as bonfires and barbecues – all clothes even those labeled ‘low flammability’ can catch fire

The Law

If you misuse them you may be liable for an on the spot fine of £80. If found guilty by the courts you could get a fine of up to £5,000.
It is an offence to:

• buy adult fireworks if you are under 18

• set off fireworks in the street or other public places

• set off fireworks between 11.00 pm and 7.00 am

You can let off fireworks until 12.00 pm on bonfire night and until 1.00 am on Christmas, New Years Eve, Chinese New Year or Diwali.
If you are using fireworks you will need to be aware of your neighbours and make sure that you do not cause a nuisance.

Be safe not sorry

Having fireworks at home can be great fun, as long as they are used safely. Follow our simple steps to make sure your display is safe and fun.

Fireworks are safe if you use them properly. If you’re putting on a home display, you should follow some simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt.

Keep kids safe

We want children to enjoy fireworks but they need to know that they can be dangerous if they are not used properly. Each year, over half of all firework injuries are suffered by children. The Child Accident Prevention Trust have more guidance on keeping kids safe

Sparkler safely

Did you know that sparklers get five times hotter than cooking oil? Sparklers are not toys and should never be given to a child under five.

Where to buy

Don’t cut corners just to save a few quid. Always buy fireworks from a reputable shop to make sure that they conform to British Standards. This means that they should have BS 7114 written on the box.

Sometimes shops open up for a short time before Bonfire Night but these may not be the best places to buy fireworks from. Staff in these shops might not be very knowledgeable about using fireworks safely and their fireworks might not meet British Standards.

Whatever you do, don’t buy fireworks from anywhere you’re not sure about, such as the back of a van or from a temporary, unlicensed market stall.

What to buy

There are different categories of fireworks. Members of the public can buy and set off most of the fireworks that come under Categories 1 to 3. These are fireworks that include those that you can use indoors, in your garden or at a display. Always read the packet carefully and make sure that the fireworks you buy are suitable for the place where you are going to set them off.

Professional fireworks

Some fireworks can only be bought and used by firework professionals. These include: air bombs; aerial shells, aerial maroons, shells-in-mortar and maroons-in-mortar; all bangers; mini rockets; fireworks with erratic flight; some Category 2 and 3 fireworks which exceed certain size limits; and all Category 4 fireworks.

Setting them off

Only one person should be in charge of fireworks. If that’s you, then make sure you take all the necessary precautions. Read the instructions in daylight and don’t drink any alcohol until they’ve all been discharged. Make your preparations in advance, and in daylight. On the night, you will need…

a torch 
a bucket or two of water 
eye protection and gloves 
a bucket of soft earth to put fireworks in 
suitable supports and launchers if you’re setting off catherine wheels or rockets.

Firework displays

If you are organising a firework display for the general public, read our information on how to organise safe and successful firework displays.

Protect your animals

You should take precautions to protect your pets during the times of the year when fireworks are likely to be set off.

COPY AND PASTE AND PRINT OUT

Welcome to the Halloween Safety Guide

 

Anytime a child has an accident, it’s tragic. Having your child get hurt any day of the year would be horrible but the last thing that you want to happen is for your child to be hurt on a holiday, like Halloween. It would forever live in the minds of the child and family, ruining that special time of year.

Everyone wants to have a safe and happy Halloween for themselves, their guests and especially their children. Using safety tips and some common sense can help you make the most of your Halloween season, keeping it as enjoyable for your kids as it is for you! There are lots of simple ways to help keep your child safe on Halloween, when accidents and injuries are more likely to occur.

The excitement of children and adults at this time of year can sometimes make them not as careful as they would normally be. Our site is filled with suggestions that can do a lot to stop tragedies from happening and help make the most of everyone’s favorite holiday of the year… Halloween!

By keeping Halloween a fun, safe and happy holiday for you and your kids, you’ll look forward to many happy years of Halloween fun! By keeping good memories for your kids, they’ll be more likely to carry on the traditions that you have taught to them with their own families some day!

Natures rest

Whilst the lilies blaze

In the summer rays

The butterflies dance

In their summer romance

The robin awaits

The fresh worms to escape

From the ground

They tease,until they are found

Where gardeners sow

Fresh veg to grow

Potatoes,leeks and marrow

The scarecrow stands so proud

Thankful for the sunshine now

He watches with an evil eye

When the birds reluctantly pass by

Roses parade along the fence

Flirting with the bees,

Soaking up their heavy scent

Capturing the moment

Of this summer scene

Gillian Sims

Send your poetry to gillianandthomas@yahoo.com

A TRIBUTE TO ALL MOTHERS AROUND THE WORLD

Why not weave across the web to: www.poetreecreations.org – our poetry site.

We always look forward to receiving poetry on any subject at http://www.poetreecreations.org

Please send your poetry to: gillianandthomas@yahoo.com

My books have arrived in Waterstones book shop in Nottingham – Manners Bear And Friends by Gillian Sims

 

Photo by kind permission of Katrina the book buyer in Waterston’s  Nottingham today

 Preparing  to put my  book on sale.

Manners Bear And Friends is a children’s poetry book based on manners. The book is £6.95 plus p&p

ISBN No: 9780956400628

If you would like to order the book you can buy at Waterstone’s Nottingham or online 

Or order direct  from us by email at:  poetreecreations@yahoo.com

HAVE A HAPPY APRIL FOOL’S DAY FROM ALLABOUTMANNERS

‘World’s largest Easter egg’

That’s no yolk! ‘World’s largest Easter egg’ weighing 4 TONS and over 27ft high unveiled in Argentina

Weighing in at over four tons, a contender for the world’s largest Easter egg was unveiled to a crowd of chocolate lovers in Argentina today. 

Twenty-seven bakeries worked for two weeks to make enough chocolate for the gargantuan concoction wheeled in to the Chocolate Festival in Bariloche.

Towering over 27ft high (8.5m) and 16ft wide (5m), the sweet treat required a reported 8,800lbs (4,000kgs) of chocolate, hovering over a sea of spectators who gathered for a taste.  

 

 

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World’s largest: Pastry chefs unveil a chocolate Easter egg towering over 27ft tall at the Chocolate Festival in San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina

The major of San Carlos de Bariloche, Omar Goye, was present at the festival, where the Easter egg was to be certified by the Guinness Records as the world’s largest.   

 

Chocolatier Diego Ferraris told Esenciapatagonia.com the Easter egg was assembled using a wooden mold as foundation for the chocolate spread.

 

 

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Crowds: Hundreds gathered at the City Centre for a taste of the monster concoction

 

 

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Sweet treat: Spectators fills the square to admire the Easter egg

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Chocolate coma: A reported 8,800lbs (4,000kgs) of chocolate was used to create the egg

Pastry chefs, led by master baker Hugo Sosa, attached blocks of chocolate to the frame. 

The chocolate egg is said to have beaten the previous record for the world’s largest, built in Belgium, which stood 8.32m (27.3ft) high.

But temperatures in the region meant crowds didn’t have long to admire the egg before it started melting. 

 

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Dripping: Pastry chefs began breaking the egg for the crowd as the surface began to melt

 

 

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Time for a taste: A chef breaks off pieces of the Easter egg for the crowd

 

 

 

 

 

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Sugar high: Children have a bite of chocolate as chefs hand out heaping tastes to the crowd

 

 

 

 

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Shell: A wood frame was used as foundation for the tons of chocolate used for the giant egg

Chefs used cranes to break off chunks of the chocolate and hand them out to the crowd as the sun beamed down. 

The Chocolate Festival has lured chocolatiers and chocolate lovers to the region since 1969 with events, races and other chocolate-themed activities. 

The festival this year ran from March 31-April 8.

THERE MUST BE  ONE BIGGER OUT THERE SOME WHERE

BUT WHERE  WHY NOT TELL ALL ABOUT IT

HAPPY ST PATRICK’S DAY FROM ALLABOUTMANNERS

 

Planting to encourage nature

 

If you’d love to see more wildlife in your garden, clever choices for your borders and herb patches can give nature a helping hand.

And by making space for the mini-beasts you can provide for the whole food chain, without shelling out for specialist supplies.

When you leave part of your garden untouched, with good access to other gardens or wild spaces, you are creating safe area for wildlife away from human influences.

An undisturbed pile of logs makes an excellent hideaway for an incredible number of insects which in turn can attract birds and mammals.

But if you prefer a more orderly garden, you can still provide additional food and shelter for all the small things – and some of the big ones too – with a good mix of plants.

• Trees not only give birds somewhere to nest but can provide fruit for foxes, badgers and even deer
• Hedgerows, such as holly, provide essential cover and corridors that join up green spaces for small mammals
• A range of shrubs that flower at different times will improve the diversity of visitors to your garden
• Longer grass is essential for egg-laying insects such as butterflies, so leave a bit of lawn untrimmed
• Taller flowers will attract flying friends from bees to dragonflies
• Night-scented plants such as buddleia and evening primrose are great for moths which in turn are a feast for bats
• Wall climbers can provide links between gardens for pollinators
• Make a calm haven in coastal gardens with trellis and evergreens to act as a windbreak
• Don’t forget your water feature: ponds are essential for amphibians and offer a bath and beverage for birds
• Choose your own compost over peat – the latter is a threatened habitat while compost heaps are a warm home to reptiles as well as a great source of nutrients for your garden

There is some debate between experts over whether native plant species are better for our wildlife and a study is currently underway at the Royal Horticultural Society‘s Wisley garden in Surrey to determine which bugs like best.

Helen Bostock is a RHS wildlife gardening specialist who runs the Plants for Bugs project and has researched the most frequently recommended plants to attract the birds, bees, butterflies and more.

Her top ten plants every wildlife gardener should consider for their patch are: sunflowers, foxgloves, thyme, lavender, honeysuckle, rowan, ice plant, firethorn, barberry and purple loosestrife.

PANCAKE CHARLIE SAY’S ” Come and celebrate Pancake Day 2014″

pancake charlie

This pancake recipe is fairly kid friendly…well, except for the hot griddle and all. Adults will have to oversee the use of the griddle and give some instruction on pancake flipping.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cup flour
• 3 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 teaspoons butter (melted)
• 1 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• Cooking spray

Preparation:

In a large mixing bowl, add all dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Hollow out a place in the center of the dry ingredients.Melt butter in a microwave safe container (Set at low power for 20 seconds. It’s OK if it’s not completely melted.) Pour butter, milk, egg and vanilla in center of dry ingredients.

Using an electric mixer, with adult supervision, mix on low until all ingredients are well mixed. Use a spoon to scrape flour from the side of the bowl.

Spray griddle with cooking spray. Preheat electric griddle to 300 degrees. For a stove top griddle use medium-high heat. (For kids who are just learning to flip pancakes a griddle is recommended over a frying pan.)

Fill a ladle half full with batter and slowly pour on griddle. Repeat, leaving plenty of space between pancakes for easy flipping.

When pancakes are filled with small bubbles, gently slide a spatula under the pancake and flip. Cook for another 30-45 seconds and use spatula to lift off the griddle.

Important! While these “Kids Can Cook” recipes are written with kids in mind, they are not necessarily meant for kids to make without adult help. Kids’ ages and level of cooking knowledge will affect how much help they need in the kitchen. So kids, always ask your parents before cooking anything!

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY

SEND YOUR POEMS TO:poetreecreations@yahoo.com

CHECK OUT MORE POEMS AT poetreecreations.org

MOTHERS SPECIAL DAY

 

 

Mothers Day will be upon us soon

How are we going to celebrate this event?

Shall we buy her chocolates and flowers?

Or buy her an expensive bottle of scent

 

We all take mothers for granted

Expecting she will always be there

She is always a good listener

And all your problems she will share

 

She sometimes becomes a nurse and a doctor

When you have hurt yourself at play

She will sit you upon her lap

Until the pain goes away

 

She will do these things all of your life

In sickness and in health

She will never give up on you

For a mother never thinks of her self 

 

A champion to all of the family

At times she will have her say

For a mother is the kingpin of the family

So show your appreciation on this her special day

 

Malcolm Bradshaw

 

Mothers Day will be upon us soon

How are we going to celebrate this event?

Why not dedicate a poem to your Mother 

This Sunday

SEND YOUR DEDICATIONS OR POEMS

TO

poetreecreations@yahoo.com

What do you think?

IN THE MOOD FOR LOVE YOU WILL FIND IT ON FEBRUARY 14 VALENTINE’S DAY.

Did You Know?

Approximately 141 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentine’s Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas.

SEND YOUR LOVE POEMS

TO

poetreecreations@yahoo.com

love poems

Follow my journey and download my new eBook

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=node%3D341689031&field-keywords=Love+and+life+by+Gillian+Sims

Aiming to get super fit after 50

 

Turning 50 is a huge milestone. For many people, this signifies a new chapter in their life. Maybe your child is now grown and out of the house. Perhaps you’re noticing some new physical changes to your body. Chances are, you will feel different once you reach this significant birthday. Fortunately, many of those changes can be positive. Turning 50 means that you have a lot of life experience. You know what you like and what you don’t like. Use your wisdom to help you become even more amazing and fit when you’re 50 and older.

Getting Physical

1. 
   1

   Join a gym. When you’re over 50, it becomes more important to ease into new physical activities. Your body simply can’t handle abrupt changes and extreme activities in the way that it used to. Joining a gym is a great way to start a new exercise program because you’ll have access to a network of professionals. Look for a gym that offers a free personal training session and health consultation for new members.^[1]

   • Many gyms have group exercise classes that are specially programmed for older patrons. Trying a group class is a great way to get in shape and make some new friends.
    
2. &
   2

   Try a new activity. It’s very common to become stuck in an exercise rut. If you are already in good shape, chances are that you have found a method you like and have stuck with it throughout your adult life. But as your body changes, you should consider changing your routine, too. Trying a new form of exercise is a great way to gently challenge your body and get some amazing health benefits.^[2][3]

   • Consider trying yoga. Many older people suffer from stiff joints, reduced flexibility, increased body fat, sore muscles, and many other physical ailments.^[4] Yoga is great for easing physical tension, and also has amazing mental benefits, too. Try looking for a yoga studio that offers gentle or introductory classes, or senior classes. Those levels will help you to ease into your practice.^[5]
    
3. 
   3

   Head outdoors. The health benefits that you get from physical exercise are increasingly important as you age. It becomes even more important to keep your heart healthy. Finding a workout routine that you will stick to is half the battle. You need regular activity in order to see the benefits. Research shows that women over 50 who exercise outdoors are more likely to exercise regularly.^[6]

   • Outdoor exercise can be very enjoyable, which is probably why it is easier to commit to. Try finding a walking trail in a picturesque spot near your home. A hike is a great way to get a workout and to get some fresh air.
   • Swimming is a great exercise for you as you get older. It is effective, but very gentle on aging joints. Look for a nearby park that has a community pool.
    
4. 
   4

   Get a workout buddy. There are many benefits to finding a friend to join you during your workouts. Having a partner can help keep you accountable. For example, if you make a plan to exercise with someone, you are less likely to cancel than if you are only disappointing yourself.^[7]

   • A workout buddy can help keep you motivated. If you see that they are getting results, it can challenge you to work harder.
   • Try looking for local workout groups online. For instance, many cities have groups you can join that take hikes, go golfing, play tennis, etc.
    

5. Take a walk. Walking is one of the best ways to both get in shape and stay in shape. It is affordable and everyone can do it, no matter where you live. Walking is low impact, but keeps your heart healthy and your muscles limber. This is especially important as you get a little older.^[8]

   • Walking is also great because it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Try getting a simple pedometer to keep track of your steps. If you like technology, you can also download an app on your smartphone. Try to get 10,000 steps per day. View it as a challenge!
     
     5

Eating Right

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   1

   Keep a food journal. Your diet is increasingly important as you get older. As you age, you are increasingly at risk for health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Watching your diet can help lower those risks. When you’re trying to eat right, it is helpful to keep a record of what you are eating. Many of us don’t realize how many empty calories we consume. Try keeping a food journal for a few weeks to get an accurate sense of your eating habits.^[9]

   • Keeping a food diary can help you identify areas where you need to make changes. This can help you visually see where you need to add more nutrients.^[10]
   • There are many great diet and food tracking apps available to download onto your smartphone.
    
   
   2

   Eat whole foods. As you age, your metabolism slows down. It becomes increasingly important to eat the right foods so that you don’t gain weight and can decrease your risk of having health issues. Try to eat a balanced diet that includes mostly foods that are not processed and do not have a lot of preservatives. Whole foods include more nutrients than packaged foods.^[11]

   • Eat plenty of berries and leafy greens. These foods contain essential nutrients and also aid in healthy digestion.
   • Emphasize fruits, vegetables, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products in your diet.^[12]
   • Limit sugar, sodium, red meat, and alcohol.^[13]
   • Make sure that your diet includes beans. This inexpensive food is a great source of protein and also helps regulate your blood sugar.
    
2. 
   3

   Stay hydrated. When you’re getting older, it becomes more important to pay attention to your heart health. Older adults are much more likely to suffer heart-related health problems. Drinking plenty of water is very important for your heart health, as it helps your heart effectively pump the blood through your body.^[14]

   • The amount of water that you need to drink varies and is based on several factors, such as how much you perspire and how hot your climate is. In general, you should try to drink at least nine 8-oz. servings of water each day — more if you’re active or in a warm climate that causes you to sweat.
   • You may find that you lose some of your sense of thirst as you age — don’t wait until you feel thirsty to have a drink. Make sure you are drinking liquids throughout the day, like water, soup, milk, and juice.^[15]
    
   
   4

   Use supplements. As you age, your body’s needs change. In order to maintain your health, it becomes increasingly important to make sure that you are getting the required amounts of key nutrients. If you’re not already, consider adding supplements to your daily routine.^[16]

   • Before taking any supplements or vitamins, it is essential that you speak with your doctor, especially if you are taking other medications. Vitamins and supplements can react with certain medications, and it is possible to take too much of a vitamin, leading to toxicity and adverse health effects.^[17]
   • Try a multivitamin that is specially formulated for people over 50. Ask your doctor for suggestions.
   • B-12 is one of the most important vitamins as you get older. It supports healthy blood cells, and also affects your energy levels. Many older adults suffer from a B-12 deficiency, so make sure you’re getting enough. This nutrient is found in fish, but you can also buy supplements at your drugstore..
   • Some vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, are fat-soluble, meaning you don’t eliminate excess through your urine; they stay in your body, stored in your fat, which can lead to toxicity. Excess levels of vitamin E can increase risk of hemorrhaging, and too much vitamin K can reduce or reverse the effect of blood thinners.^[18]
    

3. Ask your doctor for tips. Your general physician is your best resource for health care tips. Your doctor is familiar with your physical health, and can therefore tailor advice to meet your specific needs. As you get older, it is important that you see your doctor regularly. Even if you feel great, you should get a checkup at least once a year.^[19]

   • Ask a lot of questions. Don’t be afraid to use your doctor as a resource for many things. You can ask for a recommended exercise plan and tips on how to eat better.
     

Method 3

Getting Your Mind in Shape

1. 
   1

   Do puzzles. Being amazing and fit means keeping your mind sharp, not just your body. As you age, you might notice yourself becoming a little more forgetful. The older you get, the more important it is to actively work your mind. Doing puzzles is a great way to exercise your brain.^[20]

   • Brain teasers and word games are also excellent ways to train your brain. Try doing crossword puzzles or Sudoku. Download games onto your smartphone or tablet.
   • Play chess, bridge, or other challenging board or card games.
    
2. 
   2

   Read more. As you age, your cognitive speed slows down. Research shows that reading more can actually slow the mental aging process. Reading enhances your memory and increases your attention span. So grab a book, newspaper, or magazine and start reading!^[21]

   • Try joining a book club. Your local bookshop or neighborhood library likely has a variety of groups you can join. Turn reading into a new social experience and meet new people.
    
3. 
   3

   Learn something new. The act of learning is a great way to keep your mind sharp as you age. Continuing your education, learning new skills or pursuing a new hobby may help maintain individual brain cells and fortify your memory.^[22]

   • Many people suggest trying to learn a new language, but you don’t have to make it that complicated. Instead, try learning a new vocabulary word each day. To help, get a word of the day calendar or download an app to your phone.^[23]
   • You can also try learning a new skill. For example, maybe you’ve always wanted to learn how to knit. Teaching yourself a new hobby is a great way to keep your mind young.
    
4. 
   4

   Socialize more. There are great benefits that come with socializing. Not only is it enjoyable, but it is good for your health. People who socialize regularly tend to have lower blood pressure and a decreased risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s.^[24]

   • Try scheduling regular activities with your friends. For example, create a dinner club that meets once a month. You can get together with friends and try new recipes or restaurants.
   • Interact with your friends and family during your regular activities. For example, take your grandchild to the grocery store with you, or invite your neighbor to go on a walk. There are many ways to get more socialization into your day.
   • If you are looking to meet new people, try going to classes at a yoga studio and striking up conversations with other people who are looking to better themselves. Book clubs, religious meetings, and gyms are also great places to meet other people and socialize.

Butternut-N-Berry Smoothie Meal

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today, I thought I’d share my current favorite smoothie meal replacement recipe. I always mix up what’s in my almost-daily smoothie, but this one I find particularly good. It isn’t green, but has a lot of good stuff in it, and comes close to tasting like a strawberry milkshake. The calories are on the higher side, as I usually make this one for a meal replacement with a side of Manna Bread. (Don’t know Manna Bread? It is sooo good.) This smoothie for me is great on days when I don’t really have time for lunch but need something to fuel an afternoon workout. If I was making this for a snack instead of a meal replacement, I’d use water instead of milk, and leave out the oats and banana, bringing down the calories substantially.

• 1 cup skim milk (you could use milk replacement here, too, like soy, almond, or rice milk)
• 1 cup frozen cubed butternut squash (see below for preparation)
• 2/3 cup frozen strawberries
• 1 whole banana
• 1/3 cup rolled oats
• 1 scoop protein powder (I used Designer Whey Strawberry)

Add the ingredients to your blender and blend until you have a consistency you like. If you have a traditional blender, you may need to add a bit more milk to get it to blend. Thankfully, my Ninja blends the heck out of this in exactly no time flat.

Nutrition

Preparing Butternut Squash
Right now, butternut, acorn, and pretty much all winter squash is close to free at our Trader Joe’s. A big butternut will set you back $1.59 total, not per pound. So, I buy a couple when I’m in there, roast them, and freeze them in cubes for easy access for just about anything. Here’s what you do:

• Microwave the uncut squash for 3-4 minutes to soften the skin
• Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides
• Place cut size down on a lightly sprayed cookie sheet or roasting pan
• Roast at 350 for about an hour, or until it is soft
• Let cool, then, remove the skin (it should pretty much just peel off) and cut into cubes
• Place on a plate or other flat surface in a single layer and freeze for about 30 minutes, until they set up, which keeps them from sticking together
• Add the frozen cubes to a freezer bag or container and freeze completely

Top 10 tips for a gluten-free diet

Worried you have a gluten-intolerance? Already living with coeliac disease? If you’re gluten-free these top tips from Coeliac UK will help make the everyday a little easier…

Coeliac disease is a lifelong, serious autoimmune disease caused by the immune system reacting to gluten – a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. The only treatment for the condition is a strict gluten-free diet for life.

For those newly diagnosed with the condition, the prospect of a strict gluten-free diet may seem daunting at first; but armed with the right knowledge, the gluten-free diet can be relatively easy to adapt to. Here are Coeliac UK’s top 10 tips for everyday eating…

 

1. Get used to reading food labels when you shop.

All packaged food in the UK and the EU is covered by a law on allergen labelling, meaning you can tell whether or not a product is suitable for a gluten-free diet by reading the ingredients list. If a cereal containing gluten has been used as an ingredient in the product, it must be listed in the ingredients list (no matter how little is used).

The specific grain will be listed, so look out for mentions of wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt, Kamut® or any other grain which has been made through breeding these together as these all contain gluten. Often, these ingredients will be highlighted in bold.

 

2. Use gluten-free substitutes in place of gluten-containing foods

Pasta, bread and crackers all contain gluten, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy these foods in your diet.  Instead, switch to gluten-free alternatives of your favourite foods, which you will find in most supermarkets and health food stores. Gluten-free substitute foods include pasta, bread, crackers, bread rolls, cereals and more. Those medically diagnosed with coeliac disease can receive some gluten-free staple food on prescription from the NHS.

 

3. Remember lots of foods are naturally gluten-free

Fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, cheese and eggs are naturally gluten-free, so use these as the basis to your meals.

 

4. Enjoy naturally gluten-free grains and cereals. 

The gluten-free diet doesn’t mean that all grains and cereals are off the menu. Quinoa, teff, amaranth, polenta, buckwheat, corn, millet and tapioca are just some of the naturally gluten-free grains which can be included in the diet. Just check the labels to make sure you are using uncontaminated versions. Try swapping traditional breadcrumbs for polenta crumbs, opt for gluten-free buckwheat or rice noodles and pasta and try baking with quinoa for gluten-free alternatives.

 

 

5. Know which alcohol to avoid

Gluten-free alcohol includes cider, wine, sherry, spirits, port and liqueurs, but remember that beer, lagers, stouts and ales contain varying amounts of gluten and are not suitable for a gluten-free diet. Gluten-free beers are available in some supermarkets and restaurants, but make sure you only drink those that are labelled in this way.  

 

6. Remember you can still enjoy meals out with family and friends

Being on a gluten-free diet doesn’t mean that you can’t eat out – check out Coeliac UK’s online venue guide to see where you can eat out gluten-free.

 

 

7. Be aware of cross contamination

Even a tiny bit of gluten can be enough to cause symptoms for someone with coeliac disease, so make sure you minimise the risk of cross contamination with gluten-containing foods.  Do this by washing down kitchen surfaces before use, using separate butters, spreads and jams to minimise the spread of crumbs and  invest in some toaster bags to keep your gluten-free bread separate.

 

 

8. Avoid sauces containing gluten

Lots of pasta sauces, gravies, stocks and condiments contain wheat flour, and therefore gluten, so ensure you read the label and exclude anything that isn’t suitable. Instead, try making your own pasta sauces and gravies using cornflour, arrowroot or potato starch to thicken them for a gluten-free option.

 

 

9. Experiment in the kitchen

Finding the right gluten-free substitute for your usual gluten-containing ingredients is a matter of personal taste, so spend time in the kitchen getting used to gluten-free flours and baking aids.

 

 

10. Remember, gluten-free meals can be just as delicious and healthy too

Once diagnosed with coeliac disease, you can start to make positive changes to your diet to improve your health. Join Coeliac UK for support to help you adjust, which includes a Food and Drink Directory listing products to help you get started in the kitchen.

 

Coeliac disease affects 1 in 100 people in the UK, yet only 10 to 15% of those with the condition have received a diagnosis. Coeliac UK is the national charity for people with coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and offers help, advice and support.

11 Benefits of Green Tea That You Didn’t Know About

 

I’m a green tea drinker.

Not for the love of the taste — no way! I drink it because I’m told it’s good for me…or, to be honest, the real reason I drink it is because I believe it help keeps my weight in check. But recently I decided to look into it a bit deeper and see what are all these other benefits of green tea people talk of.

 

Why Green Tea?

Green tea has been used as a medicine for thousands of years, originating in China but widely used throughout Asia this beverage has a multitude of uses from lowering blood pressure to preventing cancer. The reason that green tea has more health benefits attached to it than black tea is (apparently) due to the processing. Black tea is processed in a way that allows for fermentation whereas green tea’s processing avoids the fermentation process. As a result, green tea retains maximum amount of antioxidants and poly-phenols the substances that give green tea its many benefits.

Here’s a list of some of its amazing benefits — benefits that you may not have been aware of. Some of these benefits are still being debated, so please do your own research if you want to use green tea for medicinal purposes.

1. Weight Loss. Green tea increases the metabolism. The polyphenol found in green tea works to intensify levels of fat oxidation and the rate at which your body turns food into calories.
2. Diabetes. Green tea apparently helps regulate glucose levels slowing the rise of blood sugar after eating. This can prevent high insulin spikes and resulting fat storage.
3. Heart Disease. Scientists think, green tea works on the lining of blood vessels, helping keep them stay relaxed and better able to withstand changes in blood pressure. It may also protect against the formation of clots, which are the primary cause of heart attacks.
4. Esophageal Cancer. It can reduce the risk of esophageal cancer, but it is also widely thought to kill cancer cells in general without damaging the healthy tissue around them.
5. Cholesterol. Green tea reduces bad cholesterol in the blood and improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol.
6. Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It is said to delay the deterioration caused by Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Studies carried out on mice showed that green tea protected brain cells from dying and restored damaged brain cells.
7. Tooth Decay. Studies suggests that the chemical antioxidant “catechin” in tea can destroy bacteria and viruses that cause throat infections, dental caries and other dental conditions
8. Blood Pressure. Regular consumption of green tea is thought to reduce the risk of high blood pressure.
9. Depression. Theanine is an amino acid naturally found in tea leaves. It is this substance that is thought to provide a relaxing and tranquilizing effect and be a great benefit to tea drinkers.
10. Anti-viral and Anti-bacterial. Tea catechins are strong antibacterial and antiviral agents which make them effective for treating everything from influenza to cancer. In some studies green tea has been shown to inhibit the spread of many diseases.
11. Skincare. Green tea can apparently also help with wrinkles and the signs of aging, This is because of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Both animal and human studies have demonstrated that green tea applied topically can reduce sun damage.

How Much?

These are some of the many benefits but the reality is one cup of tea a day will not give you all the abundant gains. The jury is out on how many cups are necessary; some say as little as two cups a day while others five cups — and more still say you can drink up to ten cups a day. If you are thinking of going down this route, you may want to consider taking a green tea supplement instead (it would keep you out of the bathroom).

Another thing to point out is that there is caffeine in green tea — so if you are sensitive to caffeine then one cup should be your limit. Green tea also contains tannins (which can decrease the absorption of iron and folic acid), so if you are pregnant or trying to conceive then green tea may not be ideal for you. You can try mixing green tea with other healthy ingredients such as ginger.

For the rest of us with all these abundant benefits…it’s a wonder we drink anything else.

Take a look – What do you think?

 

Despite their small size, chia seeds are packed full of important nutrients. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to raise HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol that helps protect against heart attack and stroke).

Chia seeds are also rich in antioxidants and full of fiber, magnesium, zinc, iron and calcium. Remember the chia pets that were a popular item in the 1990s? Yep, those are the same small seeds you used to grow an Afro in your Homer Simpson terracotta vase.

This MNT Knowledge Center feature is part of a collection of articles on the health benefits of popular foods. It provides a nutritional breakdown of chia seeds and an in-depth look at their possible health benefits, how to incorporate more chia seeds into your diet and any potential health risks of consuming chia seeds.

Nutritional breakdown of chia seeds

According to the USDA National Nutrient Database, one ounce of chia seeds (approximately 28 grams) contains 138 calories, 8 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrate, 10 grams of fiber and 5 grams of protein.

Eating one ounce of chia seeds per day would provide 18% of daily calcium needs, 27% of phosphorus, 30% of manganese and smaller amounts of potassium, zinc and copper.

When compared to flaxseed, chia seeds provide more omega-3s, calcium, phosphorus and fiber – all essential nutrients that most people are not getting enough of.

Possible health benefits of consuming chia seeds

Consumption of plant-based foods of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many adverse health conditions including obesity, diabetes, heart disease and overall mortality. Maintaining a diet high in plant-based foods has also been shown to support a healthy complexion, increased energy, and overall lower weight.

chia seeds
Chia seeds are packed full of important nutrients – they are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Chia and the power of fiber

The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Institute of Medicine suggests that men under the age of 50 consume 38 grams per day and women under the age of 50 consume 25 grams per day.

For adults over 50 years age, the recommendation for men is 30 grams per day and for women is 21 grams per day. Most people are not consuming even half of that recommendation in a day.

The easiest way to increase fiber intake is to increase your consumption of plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and unprocessed grains. Just one ounce of chia seeds provides 10 grams of fiber, almost half the daily recommendation for a woman over 50.

Why is fiber so important?

Treating diverticulosis

High fiber diets have been shown to decrease the prevalence in flare-ups of diverticulitis by absorbing water in the colon and making bowel movements easier to pass. Eating a healthful, fruit and vegetable and fiber-filled diet can reduce pressure and inflammation in the colon. Although the cause of diverticular disease is still unknown, it has been repeatedly associated with a low fiber diet.2

Weight loss

Foods that are high in fiber help to keep you feeling full longer and are usually lower in calories. Increased fiber intakes and high fiber diets have been shown to help with weight loss.

Cardiovascular disease and cholesterol

Increased fiber intakes have also been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A review of 67 separate controlled trials found that even a modest 10-gram per day increase in fiber intake reduced LDL (the harmful type cholesterol) as well as total cholesterol.

Recent studies have shown that dietary fiber may even play a role in regulating the immune system and inflammation, consequently decreasing the risk of inflammation-related conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and obesity.

Diabetes

High fiber diets are associated with a lower risk of developing diabetes and eating high fiber meals to keep blood sugar stable. Based on a review of findings from several large studies, The National Institute of Medicine found that diets with 14 grams fiber for every 1,000 calories were associated with significant reductions in the risk of both coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Digestion and detox

A diet with adequate fiber prevents constipation and promotes regularity for a healthy digestive tract. Regular bowel movements are crucial for the daily excretion of toxins through the bile and stool.

Omega-3s to fight heart disease

Research to date suggests that omega-3s can decrease the risk for thrombosis and arrhythmias, which can lead to heart attack, stroke and sudden cardiac death.

Omega-3s may also decrease LDL, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reduce atherosclerotic plaque, improve endothelial function, and slightly lower blood pressure. The richest sources of plant-based omega-3s are chia seeds, flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, hempseeds, hempseed oil and walnuts.

How to incorporate more chia seeds into your diet

Chia seeds are relatively easy to find in any major supermarket and are only slightly smaller than a strawberry seed. They are black in color and have a very mild, nutty flavor.

chia seed parfait
Chia seeds can be eaten raw or cooked and added to yogurt, cereal and smoothies.

You can eat them raw or cooked. Sprinkle chia seeds on cereal, yogurt, oatmeal or smoothies. Add them to baked goods like bread and muffins.

If are experimenting with vegan baking or you just run out of eggs, you can mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, let them sit for a few minutes, and watch them turn into a gel that you can use as a substitute for eggs in baking.

Try some of these healthy and delicious recipes using chia:
Pumpkin spiced steel cut oats
Lemon raspberry zucchini bars
Homemade KIND bars
Spaghetti and lentil meatballs
Banana pumpkin power smoothie

Potential health risks of consuming chia seeds

Chia seeds can absorb up to 27 times their weight in water. This posed a problem for one man with a history of swallowing problems who, doctors say, developed an esophageal obstruction after eating a tablespoon of chia seeds dry and trying to wash them down with a glass of water.

The seeds formed a thick gel in his esophagus that he was unable to swallow down without medical treatment. Although this case was rare, make sure to mix chia seeds into another food or liquid before consuming, especially if you have a history of swallowing problems. Avoid giving chia seeds to small children.

It is the total diet or overall eating pattern that is most important in disease prevention and achieving good health. It is better to eat a diet with a variety than to concentrate on individual foods as the key to good health.

 

 

 

Roasted mango ‘hedgehog’ with coconut and cinnamon sauce

Preparation time

less than 30 mins

Cooking time

10 to 30 mins

Serves

Serves 1

Dietary

Vegetarian

By Gino D’Acampo

Ingredients

For the roasted mango ‘hedgehog’
½ mango, stone removed
4 tbsp clear honey
½ tsp ground cinnamon

For the sauce
200ml/7fl oz coconut milk
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp caster sugar

Method

1.Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4.

2.For the roasted mango, score the mango flesh in a criss-cross pattern with a sharp knife and gently press out from the skin-side until it resembles a hedgehog. Place the mango hedgehog onto a baking sheet, drizzle over half the honey and then bake for five minutes, or until slightly caramelised on top. Remove from the oven, drizzle with the rest of the honey and sprinkle with cinnamon.

3.For the sauce, place the coconut milk, cinnamon and sugar into a saucepan and simmer until slightly reduced and thickened.

4.To serve, pour the sauce over the mango hedgehog.

Always Remember

Is chocolate good for us?

We all love eating chocolate and now there’s even more reason for it to put a smile on our face.

Increasing evidence suggests that our once guilty pleasure can actually have health benefits, which is just as well, considering the average Brit scoffs a whopping 196g – the equivalent of six Cadbury’s Flakes – every week.

One theory why we love chocolate so much is that a brain-active chemical called phenylethylamine in cocoa allegedly stimulates the same reaction that we experience when we’re falling in love.

Another is that we crave it in an unconscious bid to top up magnesium – a mineral that helps bolster against stress – but the evidence is thin on the ground.

“There’s actually little evidence that chocolate is truly addictive in any physical sense,” says registered dietician Elphee Medici.

“It’s more likely the uniquely seductive combination of aroma, sweetness and texture, and the fact we associate it with pleasure and reward that makes us love it so much.”

In other words, it tastes great and can do us some good too, as long as you choose the right types and don’t go too mad (most health experts recommend that we stick to about 30g of chocolate a day, or six small squares).

In celebration of National Chocolate Week (8-14 October), here are 10 reasons to tuck in:

1 It may help lower blood pressure

Flavanols found in cocoa beans aid production of nitric oxide, which stimulates blood vessels to dilate.

One analysis of 850 mainly healthy participants found that flavanol-rich chocolate and cocoa products had a small but statistically significant effect in lowering blood pressure in the short term.

Processing can lower flavonol content, so for best effect try a traditional cocoa drink made with “non-alkalised” beans (£3.50 for 125g from http://www.chocacao.co.uk)

2 It might help to keep you smart

A nice mug of cocoa might also help an ageing brain, a recent study in the journal Hypertension found. Elderly participants who received high flavonol chocolate drinks had improved mental performance after eight weeks.

3 It doesn’t give you spots after all

“This is a myth”, says Elphee.

“No one food that can cause acne, though there is some evidence that an unhealthy diet in general – high in refined carbohydrates, low in fruit and vegetables – may be a factor.”

Interestingly, both dark and milk chocolate have a relatively low glycaemic index, having a more favourable effect on blood sugar and insulin – and, potentially, your skin – than other sweet foods like sugary drinks or marshmallows.

4 It could help protect against heart attacks and strokes

Chocolate is high in saturated fat, but the particular type – stearic acid – predominant in cocoa butter does not raise cholesterol like other saturates.

Research at Cambridge University found that people consuming the most chocolate had a 37% lower risk of heart disease and a 29% lower risk of stroke than those who consumed less chocolate.

However, this “high” intake only amounted to 63g a week, and study author Dr Oscar Franco, urges: “Chocolate may be beneficial, but it should be eaten in a moderate way, not in large quantities and not in binges.”

Getting the cinnamon kick – know the facts

 

Who doesn’t love a sprinkling of cinnamon on fresh apple pie or atop a chai latte?  It’s just one of those spices that tastes fantastic.  But taste is not the only reason to love cinnamon.  Here are 10 health reasons to love this super spice:

1. Numerous studies show that cinnamon regulates blood sugar, making it a great choice for diabetics and hypoglycemics alike.  That’s also great news for anyone who wants stable energy levels and moods.

2. It reduces LDL cholesterol levels.  LDL is also known as the harmful cholesterol.  Reducing it may help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

3. It has natural anti-infectious compounds. In some studies, cinnamon has been effective against ulcer-causing H. pylori bacteria and other pathogens. However, there have been mixed results in other studies, so more research is needed.

4. It may reduce pain linked to arthritis.  Cinnamon has been shown in studies at the Department of Internal Medicine, Kangnam Korean Hospital, to reduce cytokines linked to arthritic pain.

5. Research at the University of Texas, published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer, shows that cinnamon may reduce the proliferation of cancer cells, holding promise for cancer prevention and sufferers of the disease.

6. It is a natural food preservative.

7. It contains fiber, calcium, iron, and manganese—albeit small amounts to the typical dose of ground cinnamon.

8.  It’s been proven effective for menstrual pain and infertility.  Cinnamon contains a natural chemical called cinnamaldehyde, which studies show increases the hormone progesterone and decreases testosterone production in women, helping to balance hormones.

9. Cinnamon holds promise for various neurodegenerative diseases, including: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, brain tumor, and meningitis, according to research at the Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas.  Their research shows that cinnamon reduces chronic inflammation linked with these neurological disorders.

10.  Not a health benefit, but a great reason to love cinnamon, it’s versatile.  It works with sweet and savory dishes alike.  Consider that many curries and savory Moroccan dishes include cinnamon.  It’s not just for apples anymore.

Dizzy the duck

The Inquisitive Child – a Remembrance Day poem

 

Why are they selling poppies, Mummy? Selling poppies in town today.
The poppies, child, are flowers of love. For the men who marched away.
But why have they chosen a poppy, Mummy? Why not a beautiful rose?
Because my child, men fought and died in the fields where the poppies grow.
But why are the poppies so red, Mummy? Why are the poppies so red?
Red is the colour of blood, my child. The blood that our soldiers shed.
The heart of the poppy is black, Mummy. Why does it have to be black?
Black, my child, is the symbol of grief. For the men who never came back.
But why, Mummy are you crying so? Your tears are giving you pain.
My tears are my fears for you my child. For the world is forgetting again.

Author unknown

Enjoy our Xmas theme

The Health Benefits Of Eating Raisins

Daily Basics

One of the biggest benefits of eating raisins is that they’re a quick, easy and tasty way to get some of your daily recommended fruit servings. Women should eat at least 1.5 cups of fruit daily and men should have 2 cups, according to ChooseMyPlate.gov. One small box of raisins, which is 1.5 ounces and holds about 90 raisins, fills one-half cup of your daily fruit requirement, plus it only has 129 calories and no fat. The same portion has 1.3 grams of protein, which gives men 2 percent and women 3 percent of their recommended daily intake.

Carbohydrates for Energy

The 34 grams of carbohydrates in one small box of raisins include 26 grams of sugar for rapid energy. If you use sports chews or other sports products to add carbohydrates and improve performance while you exercise or participate in endurance sports, you can get the same benefit from eating raisins, according to research published in the March 2012 issue of the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition.” You’ll also get 1.6 grams of fiber, which is 4 percent of men’s and 6 percent of women’s daily intake from just one small box of raisins. About half of the total is soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol and balance blood sugar.

Iron

Eating raisins every day helps you meet your daily requirement for iron. Even though most of the iron in the body carries oxygen in red blood cells, it’s also present in every cell in your body because it has so many other jobs. It supports your immune system, helps make amino acids and it’s essential for metabolism. Men should consume 8 milligrams and women need 18 milligrams daily, but no one should consume more than 45 milligrams of iron in a day because it can become toxic. You’ll get 0.81 milligrams of iron in one small box of raisins, which is 10 percent of men’s and 5 percent of women’s daily recommended intake.

Potassium

Potassium is able to carry electrical charges that cause muscle contraction and stimulate nerve impulses. It’s especially vital for your heart because potassium regulates the heart beat and also helps lower blood pressure by limiting the effect of sodium. Special structures in your body work constantly to maintain a strict concentration of potassium in the cells. These structures account for about 20 to 40 percent of your resting energy, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. The raisins in a 1.5-ounce box have 322 milligrams or 7 percent of the recommended daily intake of potassium.

What I did when my child had temper tantrums

Toddler temper tantrums: How I learned to stay stress free

Picture the scene, it’s a beautiful day, you’re at your favourite restaurant about to sit down to a fabulous Sunday lunch, when suddenly all hell breaks loose.

How many times have your meals out been ruined by a toddler tantrum?

I had my first experience of the ‘terrible twos’ one beautiful Sunday afternoon. We had attended our favourite family restaurant for Sunday lunch. My daughter, Tilly, was sitting between us in her high chair. The menu looked mouth-watering and everything was dandy. Then suddenly the crystal clear wine glasses began to vibrate over the crisp white table linen and knives and forks started to shake. At first I thought it was an earthquake. But it was far worst. Tilly was having a tantrum.

[Related: How I help my two year old get over shyness]

With her tiny little feet she kicked the table from underneath. She then tried to break free from her chair. Then came the screaming, causing all eyes to turn on us. “I want daddy” she screamed. Thinking this would calm her, I took her out of the chair and handed her to daddy. The wailing stopped for exactly six seconds before she once again tried to break free. “I want to get down,” she wailed. Threats like “If you don’t behave we’re going home” fell on deaf ears. By now the tantrum was in full swing.

We were attracting more attention than Joan Collins. I couldn’t understand it. She wasn’t even two. It wasn’t fair. I felt cheated. My daughter was only 22 months. Had she begun the terrible twos early, like some kind of early menopause syndrome?

A bemused waiter came to take our order. “What would you like?” he asked. “Just our coats,” I replied. Yes, it was time to leave.

We suffered the terrible twos for quite some time. My daughter did not mind where she had a tantrum. There seemed to be no rhyme or reason to it.

Rather than let it spoil our time, I thought up different ways to deal with the situation so that when a tantrum struck, I was armed and ready. I even gave it a name: ‘Tantrum Tamer’. It worked most of the time, which was definitely better than none of the time. More importantly – it got us through. Here’s how I coped.

[Related: How to switch off the waterworks]

Whenever a tantrum struck I would go through a series of five stages with my daughter:

Physical contact and understand helps with toddler tantrums

1. Even if my daughter was screaming at the top of her voice and showing no signs of listening, I would get down to her level so we were face to face. I would explain in a low calm voice that I understood that she was feeling upset. I would then say that if we both took a deep breath together we would start to feel better.

2. I soon discovered that if I made things more child friendly and more like a game, I got better results. Hence the name ‘Tantrum Tamer’. I would say to my daughter, “Shall we try the Tantrum Tamer?” This consisted of a series of actions, starting with a hug. For me this was twofold. If she was totally running wild I could restrain her. Secondly, children quite often respond to touch.

Next we would breathe deeply. I would ask my daughter to take a deep breath in and then blow out with puffy cheek at least twice. It usually calmed me down, too. I would then tell my daughter the lovely warm feeling in her tummy was the Tantrum Tamer working. It would take a little time but would definitely work faster if sheHow to amuse toddlers in the car sat quietly.

[Related: ]

3. I would not only talk calmly to my daughter, but physically look and act calm so that she could see The Tamer was beginning to work. I would smile widely, and say things like “I feel so happy” or “I’m ready for a nice nap”. Anything my daughter would respond to.

4. If all of the above failed, I felt it was time for more drastic measures such as taking away a treat. I would say that she would not be able to go to the park until she was better behaved. If you decide to try this, you need to use your judgement on what penalty will work best for you and your child at that moment. The thing to remember is that this is the last warning.

5. Stick to your guns. If things are not better at this stage then you must carry out the penalty. Don’t be hoodwinked into giving another chance because this will only come back to bite you next time.

For me the terrible twos were a huge learning curve. Although I feel grateful for the experience, I have to admit that now that it’s over, I can breathe a sigh of relief – at least until the teenage years!

Valentine Project for the Kids

Inside Me: Nikki Thomas

Hi All,

Every year for Valentine’s Day I’m usually so focused on getting our plans together for our anniversary and I end up getting my son’s classroom Valentine’s gifts at the last minutes….usually the night before.  Well, this time I decided to make them and they were actually done this past weekend….woohoo.   I decided to make these candy and heart flowers for the girls.  What girl does not like to receive flowers right?

This project really didn’t take too much time to make and I really didn’t need too many items.

I used:

Office file folder, heart stickers (Dollar General), scrapbook paper sheets (Michaels), “Heart” punch (Michaels) sorry I didn’t have a pictures similar here, regular hole punch, “Dum Dum” lollipops and scotch tape.

I punched out hearts using the different paper and then punched a small hole at the bottom of the heart to insert the lollipop stick.  The glitter hearts are…

View original post 68 more words

Recipe for disaster

 

A Crazy Cooking Poem for Kids

A box of melted crayons.
A cup of Elmer’s glue.
A pint of watercolor paint.
Some Silly Putty too.

A half a pound of Play-Doh.
About a pint of paste.
A tablespoon of flubber
to improve the final taste.

I looked through all the cupboards
for things I could include.
If it was marked “Non-Toxic”
I just figured that meant “food.”

To guarantee it’s healthy
I topped it with a beet.
Then smashed it all together
so it should be good to eat.

I’m hoping that you’ll try it
and tell me what you think.
Just close your eyes and open wide
and nevermind the stink.

–Kenn Nesbitt

 

Scribble

 

I gave you some crayons

To create your own space

But you decided to invade

My own personal place

You scribbled and tortured

all of my walls

If only your design

Was like Niagara Falls

But all you do is

Destroy my walls

Can’t you create a

Mona Lisa

Or even

The tower of Pisa

If I take your crayons away

What will happen today

Will you take out your paints

And decorate my place

To look like no – ones ever seen

Pretend you are Leonardo Da Vince

Sit quietly and paint my face

Gillian Sims

Millie the millipede by Gillian Sims from the MANNERS BEAR AND FRIENDS book.

 

BUY THE BOOK:MANNERS BEAR AND FRIENDS FROM http://www.waterstones.com

 OR DOWNLOAD THE EBOOK  FOR ONLY £ 1-53

 Manners Bear And Friends – Click the link below

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/reader/B00P6NNR8I/ref=sib_dp_kd#reader-link

SCARY MARY’S RECIPES FOR HALL0WEEN WHY DONT YOU TRY ONE IF YOU DARE!

Blood soup 
This is an easy recipe. You will need a can of tomato soup and a pack of musksticks. First, cook the soup in a pan over a stove. Then break up the musk sticks and put them into the soup to create…blood soup with delicious fingers!

Dead Fingers
This is a shortbread type cookie that look like fingers.The dough is piped (use a bag without any tip to get a finger sized cylinder) onto the cookie sheet. Then using the dull side of a butter knife make lines suggesting knuckle and wrinkles, and add an almond for the fingernail. I found the unblanched variety look particularly creepy. You can add a bit of red icing (ie.that translucent yuk that comes in a tube) if you want a bloody finger. I have experimented with this idea and found it better to make an impression with the almond rather then bake them and “glue” the almonds to the finger afterwards with the “blood”. This gives a new twist to the term “finger foods”.

Brain Cookies 
You color a icebox type dough a sickening purplish/gray shade and then push the dough through a colander to make extruded spaghetti shapes.Then you loosely pat spoonfuls of the dough into brain shapes (well at least most kids’ notions of how a brain is shaped). I think I experimented with different kitchen tools with this one and ended up using one of those collapsable steamer things to make the spaghetti.

French Fried Eye Balls 
2 pototoes
relish
Mash potatoes and mold them into balls. Cook 160C in oven 20 min. Spread relish over and enjoy!

Bugs in dirt sandwiches 
For this you will need white bread, a pack of mixed bug shaped lollies and milo. First, spread your slices of bread with margerine or butter. Then, sprinkle the buttered slices with milo until completely coated. Carefully stick the bugs firmly into the milo and place remaining slice of bread on top. Voila! you have bugs in dirt sandwhiches!

Tombstoned biscuites 
This recipe is a nice treat. First, you will need icing sugar, rectangular biscuites and a toothpick. Take your icing sugar and mix it with hot water until fairly runny. Dip each of your biscuits into the mixture and place onto a foiled tray. Take your toothpick and carve “R.I.P” out of the icing on every biscuit. Place in fridge for a few hours and presto! Your very own mini tombstones!

Brain Cell Salad 
1 (6-ounce) package blueberry gelatin dessert mix
1 (16-ounce) container small-curd cottage cheese
1 (16 1/2-ounce) can blueberries in syrup (or 3/4 cup frozen blueberries, thawed)
blue food coloring
Prepare gelatin according to the directions on the package. Chill for four to five hours, or until firm.
Scoop cottage cheese into bowl. Drain and set aside the syrup from the blueberries. Add the berries to
the cottage cheese and mix well. Add three drops food coloring to turn the cottage cheese a nice qrayish color when blended. To serve salad, place a few spoonfuls of firm gelatin (congealed brain fluids) onto individual plates. Top with a scoop of cottage cheese (brain tissue) mixture and serve.

Crusty Booger Balls 
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
5 1/3 cups flaked coconut (about 14 ounces)
1 large 8-ounce package lime-flavored gelatin
1 cup ground, blanched almonds
1 teaspoon almond extract
In a large bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, coconut, 1/3 cup of the unprepared gelatin, almonds, and almond extract. Mix well with a large mixing spoon or rubber spatula. Cover bowl with platic wrap and chill for about an hour or until mixture is firm enough to mold in your hands. Scoop by 1/2 teaspoonfuls and shape into various-sized booger balls. Place them on a baking sheet, lined with a sheet of waxed paper. Make sure they are all slightly different, just as each and every booger iwsunique and special. Place a second sheet of waxed paper on your work surface and pour remaining unprepared lime gelatin on the center of the waxed paper. Roll each ball in gelatin to coat well and create a thin outer layer. Then place back on the baking sheet. Return boogers to the refrigerator for and hour before seving, and store any extras in the refrigerator.

Pumpkin Cake 
Bake 2 cakes in Bundt pans. Place the 2 cakes together bottom to bottom. Frost with orange frosting made from food colouring. The pumpkin face is pieces of a Hershey Chocolate Bar cut into triangles, etc for eyes, nose, etc. And finally set a chocolate frosted cupcake at the top as the stem.
Note: This ends up being a whole lot of cake.

Another Eyeball Dish! 
Buy a can of lychee fruits and simply stuff the little devils with grapes (try mixing red and green grapes). Serve in a hollowed out gourd. Serve this down with Vampire blood. Any red-coloured drink will do. Simply serve it in small pumpkin-type gourds that have been cleaned out. Use black liquorice for straws, and start sucking.

Frog’s Eye Salad 
1 cup Acini De Pepe
2 cups mandarin oranges
1 cup pineapple tidbits
1 1/2 cups marshmallows
3 egg yolks
3 Tbsp. flour
1 cup sugar
1 reg. size Cool Whip
Boil Acini De Pepe in salted water til tender, but not soft (about 10 minutes) and drain. Drain fruit. Thicken fruit juice, egg yolks, flour and sugar. Add drained Acini De Pepe while dressing is still hot, then let the whole mixture cool. When cooled, fold in marshmallows, fruit, and Cool Whip. Chill.

Graveyard Treat
Crush a full bag of Oreo cookies and spread some in the bottom of the pan. Reserve the other half for the top. Next mix chocolate pudding and coolwhip, and spread over the crust. Spread the remaining crumbs over the pudding, covering completely. Use cookies to represent the tombstones, oval cookies are best, you can even pipe on saying with icing (R.I.P. etc) I have some bats on sticks that I stick down in the cookie tombstones (if they are sandwich cookies). Just use your imagination to decorate your
graveyard. Enjoy this ghoulish treat. Happy Haunting!

Kitty Litter Cake 
1 pkg. spice cake mix
1 pkg. white cake mix
1 pkg. white sandwich cookies
green food coloring
12 small tootsie rolls
1 pkg. vanilla pudding mix
1 new kitty litter box
1 new pooper scooper
Prepare cake mixes and bake according to directions. Prepare pudding mix and chill until ready to assemble. Crumble white sandwich cookies in small batches in blender. They tend to stick, so scrape often. Set aside all but about 1/4 cup. To the 1/4 cup cookie crumbs, add a few drops green food
coloring and mix using a fork. When cakes are cooled to room temperature, crumble into a large bowl. Toss with half the remaining cookie crumbs and the chilled pudding. Gently combine. Line new, clean kitty litter box. Put mixture into litter box. Put three unwrapped Tootsie rolls in a microwave safe dish and heat until soft and pliable. Shape ends so they are no longer blunt, curving slightly. Repeat with 3 more Tootsie rolls and bury in mixture. Sprinkle the other half of cookie crumbs over top. Scatter the green cookie crumbs lightly over the top, this is supposed to look like the chlorophyll in kitty litter. Heat remaining Tootsie rolls, 3 at a time, in the microwave until almost melted. Scrape them on top of the cake and sprinkle with cookie crumbs. Serve with a new pooper scooper. This does take a bit of time. My friend made it for an adult’s Halloween party, I swear you can’t tell it from the real thing if you follow the directions carefully. Serves 24

Bone Sandwiches
Cut the crusts off of some slices of white bread. Spread peanut butter and jam on the bread. Roll the sandwiches up. Ta da! You have bones with blood and marrow for dinner!

Dinner in a Pumpkin
1 small to medium pumpkin
1 4-oz can sliced mushrooms, drained
1 onion, chopped
1 10-oz can cream of chicken soup
2 TBS vegetable oil
1 8-oz can sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 1/2 to 2 lbs ground beef
1 1/2 cups cooked rice
2 TBS soy sauce
2 TBS brown sugar
Cut off top of pumpkin; clean out seeds and pulp. Paint on appropriate face on front of pumpkin with pemanent marker or acrylic paint. In a large skillet, saute’ onion in oil until tender; add meat and brown.
Drain drippings from skillet. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, mushrooms and soup; simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cooked rice and water chestnuts. Spoon mixture into pumpkin shell. Replace pumpkin top and place entire pumpkin, with filling, on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour in 350 degree oven or until inside meat of pumpkin is tender. Put pumpkin on a plate; remove top and serve. For your vegetable, scoop out cooked pumpkin and serve. Serves 6 people

Pumpkin Seeds
2 cups pumpkin seeds
2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons melted butter
vegetable oil
1.Separate pumpkin seeds from the pulp but don’t wash the seeds.
2.Mix seeds, butter, salt, and stir.
3.Grease baking tray with oil and pour on buttered seeds. Gently shake the pan to even out the seeds.
4.Bake seeds at 200 degrees F. for 45 mins.

The Classic Apple Dunking
Apples
Water
A deep pan or a half barrel
Lots of people
You can blindfold the players or not. Put the water and apples in the barrel. Without using hands the players must pick up an apple with their teeth! (If you wear glasses then don’t forget to take them off.)

Pumpkin Cake This tastes like pumpkin!
1/2 c. sugar
1/2 c. butter
1/2 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg
3/4 c. dark molassses
3/4 c. milk
2 c. flour
1 tsp. baking soda
Mix together sugar, butter, ginger, cinnamon, and salt. Add one egg and beat until fluffy. Add molasses and milk. Combine flour and basking soda and add to wet mixture. Bake in a round pan at 325 degrees F. for 35 minutes. When cooled frost with orange icing.

Green Eye Pie
In a bowl combine 2 cups of washed and dried green grapes and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Pour into 1 prepared graham cracker pie crust. Right before serving sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar.

Gory Hand – Presentation is everything.
This is both a yummy treat and a great decoration to scare your friends. Use a clean rubber glove. Make a strong cherry or other red jello by using 3/4 of the recommended amount of water. Hang the glove over the sink by using clothes pins attached to thin strips of wood. When the jello has cooled pour into glove and place in the deep freeze. Be careful not to have the hand pressing against anything or it will ruin the shape. When the jello is frozen cut the glove off using small scissors. Keep your masterpiece in the fridge until ready to display.

alternate Gory Hand tip:
Take a clean rubber glove and fill it with water, tie it and put it in the deep freeze. Keep it in there until your party. When you’re ready take it out of the glove and put it in the punchbowl instead of ice!

Eyeball Snacks
1 lb. icing sugar
1 egg white
peppermint essence
black liquorice
blue or green colouring
Beat the egg white lightly and blend with a small amout of icing sugar and a few drops of peppermint essence. Mix until you get a fine dry paste. Using your hands knead the paste adding small amounts of icing sugar until the paste will absorb it. Separate a small quatitiy to make the irises, adding a few drops of blue or green coloring and mix. Roll the white mixture into small round balls. Press a hole in the top of the ball with your finger and add some of the colored mixture. Cut a small piece off of the
liquorice and place in the middle of the colored mixture for the pupil. Voila!

Spider Salad
1.Place one half of a canned peach on a plate, flat side down.
2.Cut eight curls off of a carrot with a vegetable peeler.
3.Tuck the curls under the peach to make spider legs.
4.Put raisins on top of peach for eyes.
5.Put a small piece of marachino cherry under the raisins for the mouth.

Easy Insects
1.Melt a 6oz. package of butterscotch chips over low heat, stirring constantly.
2.Remove chips from heat and stir in 1 cup peanuts and 3 cups chow mein noodles.
3.Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper and cool.

 

Drinks

Vampire’s Blood Shake
2 cups plain yogurt
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 package frozen starwberries or raspberries, thawed
ice cubes
1 pint strawberry ice cream
1.Mix yogurt, vanilla, and berries in the blender.
2.Pour into tall glasses over ice cubes, or chill.
3.Top with a big spoonful of strawberry ice cream.

BLOOD RED ICE
For deep red ice, try cherry Kool-Aid®. It Can even be frozen inside a plastic glove, now this really adds some snap to a punchbowl! MYSTERY PUNCH 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 quarts apple cider 3 cups water 12 ounce can of frozen orange juice concentrate Stir all ingredients together until well blended. Chill 1 hour. Serve cold with blood red ice mold (above) To serve warm, after chilling, bring mixture to a boil, then simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.

BOILING WITCH’S CAULDRON OF WHAAP
Get one of those plastic witch’s cauldrons from your nearest Halloween supply store usually available at large retail outlets around Halloween. Wash it out real good. Purchase some frozen lemonade, lime-lemonade, and whatever other flavor you want to use as your base taste. Then proceed to add a couple liters of lemon-lime tasting soda such as 7-UP, Sprite, Squirt or even Ginger Ale. Add a whole bunch of cut-up fruit: watermelon, strawberries, musk melon, cantaloupe, oranges, and of course your favorite style of grapes (they make good eyeballs). To darken the mixture you may want to add a couple of packages of grape or blackberry Kool-Aid®. For added effect you can purchase some plastic bones, eyeballs, bats, spiders or whatever else you can find. Lastly you will want to add dry ice for the boiling effect and to have “steam” rolling over the edges.

A WARNING ABOUT DRY ICE!!!! IT CAN BURN SKIN BY HANDLING IT OR SOMEONE’S THROAT IF THEY SWALLOW IT! BE SURE TO WARN YOUR GUESTS OF THE DANGERS BEFORE THEY GET AT IT OR MAKE SURE YOU HAVE SOME KIND OF SIGN TO WARN THEM. WE CANNOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR SUGGESTING IT’S USE.

There’s Bugs in my Drink! 
Put raisins in your punch for bugs!

A Gruesome Brew
1/2 c. lemon juice
1 quart apple cider
5 cloves
1 tsp. nutmeg
2 cinnamon sticks
toads and salamanders
1.Mix lemon juice and cider in a saucepan.
2.Put spices in a tea ball and add to cider.
3.Bring mixture to a boil over low heat and simmer for 5 – 10 minutes.
4.Cool slightly, remove tea ball, and serve. Also good cold.

Fireworks

Bang boom zoom
Is what I hear!
Eye-catching colours
Fast appear
Bang boom zoom
Is what I hear!
Colourful paint drops
Invade the air
Bang boom zoom
Is what I hear!
Eye catching colours
Slowly disappear
Bang boom zoom
Is what I hear!
These colourful fireworks
I really seem to fear

Copyright © 2006 Marinela Reka

Bonfire Night Poetry KIDS POEMS

Colours

Colours

Colours
I like it when they fade away
They shine on my face

it’s Bonfire night
The rockets explode with
gold yellow red
pink silver and white

Jonathan, Class 4

Acrostic Poem

Bangers bang in the sky Boom !!!
Oh !! what lovely sparkles
None of the babies like the sound
Fireworks flash in the night
I watch the fireworks and fantastic flames
Rushing rockets rush in the air
Everyone comes to see them, WOW !!!
No one hates the shiny sparklers
I enjoy the spinning wheels
Going crack and kaboom all around
Happy children love the rockets
Toffee apples at the fireworks marketJade, class 3

FireworksFireworks go up
Fireworks go up
Please light up in blue
And light blueCclass 5

Alliteration Poem

Rockets Rushing in the dark
Sparklers Sparkling Siver and gold
Fierce and Fiery, what a display
Bonfire Burning Bright
Scarey Sounds up in the Sky
BANG !! BANG !! BANG !!Remini, class 3

A Poem for SparklersSparklers shine silver and gold
Sparklers spin round and round
It makes your eyes go funny
Sparklers spitting coloured fire
Sparklers can’t always be safe
You need to wear some gloves
Sparklers are very nice things to watchBianca, class 3 Fireworks and Food The firework goes bang
And the colours are
Red pink silver and yellow
You can buy hot dogs and toffee apples
It’s greatRussol, class 4

Acrostic Poem

Bombs go Bang !!!
Out of the window I watch
Noises make me frightened
Flames go very high
I am very happy
Rockets zoom
Everyone is looking at the fireworksBurhan, class 3

Alliteration Poem

Rockets Rockets go Round and Round
Sparklers sparkle glittery gold
Rockets Rockets Race around the sky
Sparklers sparkle, stars in my eyes
Rockets Rockets Rise in the sky
Look in the sky and you will see shining starsSohie, class 3

In the Sky

Fireworks go bang !
And go in the sky
And they go high
They are all different coloursJamie, class 4

Colour

Matthew, class 5