Wheat Free, Dairy Free Baking Powder

Isabella’s wheat allergy subsided some years ago, so wheat free recipes have not featured in my blog. I did have a period during my breast-feeding days where I had to be wheat free – and I felt fabulous… and the post baby weight dropped off. If only I had the resolve for my own health that I had for my baby!!

Anyway, here’s a little tip for a raising agent for those that are wheat-free and dairy free:

• 7g Potassium bicarbonate (available at chemists)
• 115g Potato Flour

Mix and store in an airtight container.

Egg Free, Dairy Free Rice and Sultana Pudding (also wheat free)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 Tablespoon Soy Flour
• 1/2 litre Water 
• 25 g dairy-free Margarine (I use Becel)
• 3 Tablesponns uncooked brown rice
• 2 Tablespoons Sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Sultanas 
• 1 drop Vanilla Extract (or a few drops Vanilla Essence)
• Powdered nutmeg to sprinkle

Method

• Pre-heat oven to 140C 
• In a saucepan, mix the Soy flour with a little water until smooth 
• Add the rest of the Water. Bring to the boil then simmer for 5 minutes.
• Add margarine and stir until melted.
• Put the rice and sugar into an ovenproof dish and pour the Soy flour mixture over the top.
• Add the Sultanas and Vanilla then stir well.
• Sprinkle Nutmeg over the top and bake for 2.5 hours
• If it appears to get a bit dry during cooking – add a little hot water.

The Cat’s Whiskers

Last night I asked Milo if someone had cut his hair.

I noticed his fringe was rather crooked. He confirmed what I had suspected, he had given himself a haircut. He then informed me that he also gave out cat a haircut. Our poor Pip now has stubble instead of whiskers.

Fortunately (??) he cut off both sides, so Pip will not be too unbalanced. I read that they should grow back in 2 to 3 months, so hopefully the poor old thing copes during the regrowth and doesn’t manage to injure herself, or cause any damage to her eyes.

Kids and scissors…. I seem to recall becoming a budding hairdresser as a 5 year old too. I cut off my sister’s fringe at the hairline (very attractive). At least I was smart enough to blame her

Remembering Chris Large … 3 Mar 1951 – 11 Oct 2005

It’s a year since Chris Large was taken from us, after a long battle with cancer.

He was my mentor, my colleague and my friend and I have many fond memories of this amazing man.

Chris was a leader, the best I have worked with or for. He had the ability to create and sell a vision, painting a vivid picture of the future and the possibilities. He was able to generate a ground swell among his people, creating a crystal clear path with enormous passion, energy and commitment. He ran interference from those who tried to derail the pathway and enabled his people to follow the path he created. I’ve had never experienced such great leadership before and I’ve not seen it since. I attempt to model his behaviour whenever I can.

Chris was loyal to a fault. He was always behind his people 100%.

I remember his passion for music. You could always hear music floating from his office, Pink Floyd, Ben Harper, Led Zeppelin.

I learnt many things, including to take a chance with people, they can surprise you; that work has to be fun – otherwise why are we here; and the importance of building the team but recognising individuals.

I miss Chris, but not as much as his wife Annette and sons, especially Matt, his pride and joy.

He fought valiantly to the end… I still struggle to believe that cancer was able to beat this incredible man!

Chris, you will always be close to me, in my thoughts and actions. We miss you.