Author Archives: Melinda

Having “The Talk”

First, an update: Thanks to everyone for your supportive comments about last week’s “Mean Girls” post. I decided that it would be appropriate to talk to the woman about 1) the fact that she did touch my child and 2) that her comments were hurtful to my daughter. This woman was already told that she…

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Italian Chicken with White Beans

This dish is not only a one-pot meal, but it’s made even easier by the fact that it’s prepared in the crock pot! It’s hearty, delicious, and is a great source Vitamin A (for eye health) and fiber (for cardiac and digestive health). Italian Chicken with White Beans Recipe from Publix Supermarkets 1 15- or…

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Mean Girls

Question: How do you respond when a parent is mean to your kid? Here’s the scenario: we went to a birthday party for a family friend, who also happens to be Zoe’s piano teacher. Many of this teacher’s students were there, as were their families. Zoe usually has a tough time in loud social settings…

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Steak Chili with Beans

Welcome to a month of one-pot suppers at Cooking for Special Needs. This week I thought I’d start with a favorite, stick-to-your-ribs supper. Chili makes for a delicious, hearty meal. It’s fast and simple to make, and it can be served with some of your favorite accompaniments. My husband and kids love to eat it…

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Autism X6

Discovery Health Channel is airing a special this month called Autism X6. The show focuses on the Kirton family, John and Robin and their 6 children: Robert (14), Emma (10), Nephi (9), Sarah (6), Ammon (4), and Mary (3). I know you may be thinking “Wow! That sure is a large family.” Well, the Kirtons…

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French Toast, and a Month of One-Pot Suppers

This French toast recipe is a great way to use up leftover gluten-free bread. It freezes well too, so it’s wonderful for a warm breakfast when you’re short on time. Serve it with pure maple syrup, jam, fresh fruit, or compote. 6 slices gluten-free bread (I used Ener-G Brand) 3 eggs 1/3 cup vanilla rice,…

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Stress-Busting

As parents, we wear many hats. We are parents, teachers, tutors, cooks, chauffeurs, mediators, health-care advocates—the list goes on. It’s a job that poses many challenges; but it also provides tremendous rewards. The hugs, kisses, and smiles are priceless! Some days the hustle-and-bustle of our parenting gig and all our other jobs can leave us…

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Latin Chicken in a Hurry

We love stewed whole chicken, braised slowly and served with rice. But I don’t always have the time to make it. This is a great quickie recipe using chicken breast, something I try to have in the freezer at all times for a fast, healthy, and delicious meal. 1 Tbs. olive oil 1 ½ lbs….

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Nighttime Rituals

My kids LOVE the hour that precedes their bedtime (though I must admit this wasn’t always the case). Why the enthusiasm? Because after the chaos of the day is done, there are three things to look forward to: 1.Rough-housing (or “soft-housing”, depending on their mood) with their dad and me. It’s a great way to…

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GFCF Party Mix

Remember eating Chex™ Party Mix as a kid? I do. It was a yummy concoction of cereal, nuts, pretzels, and bagel chips covered with a spicy-sweet topping that was addictive. This recipe can be halved or multiplied depending on how much you’d like to make at one time. Feel free to add your own spin…

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