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23 Yummiest Gluten Free Foods at Trader Joe’s!
A few years ago, just as I was ready to lay into a big plate of bagels in the break room at my workplace I heard an ominous voice from over my shoulder. “Gluten is evil”, my friend Lauryn quipped. I turned to look at her. “You’re crazy!” I said, biting into a delicious cinnamon swirled bagel. But was she crazy? Later in the day, I felt tired, sluggish and couldn’t concentrate. I just ignored it. Yet I almost fell asleep while trying to write my notes. Skip ahead a couple of years and I noticed that every time I ate anything with wheat, I would feel this way. I would also often have tummy troubles, feel shaky and weak, be irritable, and just feel yucky. The idea of becoming gluten-free had begun germinating in my mind.
I read the book Wheat Belly: Lose the Wheat, Lose the Weight, and Find Your Path Back to Health by cardiologist William Davis and it really opened my eyes. Although I was a bit skeptical, I decided to go gluten-free. How could I do it? Everything I loved most was made with wheat, including pizza, bread, pasta, and more. It seemed pretty impossible. I did a bit of research and am happy to say that I am doing it, and have not only dropped a whole clothing size but my blood sugar has also gone down drastically. For years I was told I was pre-diabetic, and now I am substantially below that pre-diabetic number. I also have more energy and feel so much more healthy.
Doesn’t everything have wheat in it? How can you find things without gluten? Unfortunately, many of my favorite stores, like Target, do not offer many gluten free options. Thankfully, I discovered that Trader Joe’s has more gluten free products than any other store I have been in, hands down. I am excited to share some of my favorite gluten free finds with you.
Pasta
Trader Joe’s 1. organic quinoa and brown rice spaghetti pasta and 2. gluten free egg fettuccine pasta are great options to try. They also have 3. gluten free mac & cheese.
Crackers
I have tried and loved their 4. Norwegian crispbread, 5. 3 seed beet crackers, and 6. sweet potato crackers. My very favorite? The crispy crunchy 7. mochi rice nuggets.
Chips
I am addicted to crunchy things, so of course I love Trader Joe’s 8. plantain chips, 9. spicy cheese crunchies and 10. grainless tortilla chips.
Source: Trader Joe’s Baking Mixes
It’s awesome that Trader Joe’s includes recipes with many of their items, including the one provided with this 11. cassava cauliflower blend baking mix for tortillas. They also have gluten free 12. pumpkin bread & muffin baking mix, 13. cornbread mix, and 14. falafel mix.
Breads
When I saw all the gluten free breads here I almost cried. Huge selection including 15. bagels, 16. whole grain bread, 17. challah and 18. hamburger buns.
Pizza
Who can go without pizza? Not me! I tried the 19. cheese pizza with cauliflower crust and it just didn’t do it for me. Thankfully they carry 20. gluten free flatbread pizza crust for making your own pizza, yay!
Cakes & Cookies
I am not a big sweets fan, in general, but occasionally I like them with a cup of tea or coffee. Trader Joe’s has delicious gluten free cookies including 21. ginger snaps and 22. chocolate creme Joe-Joe’s. They also have 23. gluten free cinnamon coffee cake muffins. Yum!
My cats and dog eat grain free foods to stay healthy too. If you decide to go gluten free, definitely consult your physician first. If he or she gives you the thumbs up, I support you in your decision. For me, it took a bit of searching and trial and error to succeed. I continue to learn and grow in my gluten free journey. Trader Joe’s has such yummy gluten free products, I hope you get to try some. You may also enjoy Nine Best Fresh Herbs To Use In Your Kitchen. Thank you for visiting my blog. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas!
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Amazing 4th of July Decor You’ll Love!
Banner available on Etsy at SunnyBanners. The 4th of July is rapidly approaching and I am busily digging out all my patriotic decor. Whether you like to just do a little something on the front porch or go all out, here are some amazing patriotic decor ideas I think you will love!
Using vintage quilts adds a cozy, comfy vibe that will make your 4th of July perfect.
Photo credit: Jamie Brown. Hand-made by Jamie Brown, this super cute “Old Glory” sign will help you celebrate Independence Day in style. Available at her Etsy shop, ToeFishArt, they are almost sold out!
Source: @myweatheredhome Get fab farmhouse vibes using vintage and rustic items.
Wreath available on Etsy, at The Door Charm. Using a patriotic wreath on a door or above the mantel adds the perfect patriotic touch. Check out Cari Anne’s beautiful creations on Etsy. I love the bows!
Source: @oops.i.dunn.it.again Stars and stripes make this dining room so 4th of July festive.
Source: Pottery Barn These Americana cotton/linen napkins will add 4th of July flair.
Chair Back Covers available on Etsy at SeasonalHeirlooms. Sometimes, just switching up something you already have will do the trick. How about these patriotic chair back covers! Isn’t this just the cutest?
Wow! Just can’t stop admiring this beautiful porch by Bonnie Ainsley Hunt @simple_and_lovely and owner of Simple and Lovely Art on Etsy.
Source: @rusticlivinglife Another beautiful 4th of July porch. Drooling!
Source: @houseonlouisemeadow The perfect patriotic place settings to make your celebration complete.
Source: @havenberryvintage Using vintage items to decorate for the 4th of July provides a unique glimpse of the past.
Curtains available at Bed Bath & Beyond. Show your true red, white & blue love with these flag curtains.
Source: Oriental Trading These simple burlap hanging fans create festive wall decor.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found some patriotic decor inspiration. You may also like The 5 Reasons You Will Love These Summer Finds!, What the Color of Your Flowers Says About You, and Garden Gates of Carmel. Wishing you peace, love, happiness, and beautiful vistas.
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The #1 Guide for What to See and Do in Romantic Carmel
Charming gardens, fairytale homes, sun-kissed beaches, art galleries, and award winning wineries and restaurants, Carmel has it all. If you have followed my Instagram or Pinterest accounts over the past few years you know I have an obsession with Carmel-by-the-Sea. Exploring this seaside paradise is one of my favorite pastimes. As a local, I have put together the perfect guide to help you know what to see and do once you get to this romantic destination. Your Carmel adventure awaits!
Follow the Breadcrumb Trail to the Fairy Tale Cottages
Check out the Fairy Tale Cottages. The majority can be found in the area bordered by Ocean Avenue on the south, Santa Rita on the east, 5th Avenue on the north and Torres Street on the west. To learn more about these darling cottages, check out another guide to these cottages at Adventures of a Home Town Tourist. This amazing lady is full of details, history, you name it! There is also a self-guided audio tour available. I suggest just walking or driving around because there many more quaint and beautiful homes, both old and new, throughout the town.
Time for Coffee & Snacks!
Grab a cup of coffee and snack at Carmel Valley Coffee or Carmel Bakery or tea and crumpets at The Tuck Box.
Check Out the Art Galleries
Art galleries can be found everywhere here. That is not surprising given the fact that Carmel was founded by artists and writers. There is so much creative energy here, no doubt inspired by the beauty all around.
Go Shopping, and Spend as Much as You Want, Little Missy or Mister
Go shopping. Most of the stores here are not chains, but there are the exceptions, for example, Anthropologie and Tiffany’s. That means you can find some very unique and special items. My friend Laurie, recently visiting from the LA area, swears that she can’t find her favorite wraps anywhere except for one little shop in Carmel. If you are a pet owner like me, check out the super cute Carmel Dog Shop and Diggidy Dog for toys, treats and more.
Play in Candy Land
Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Cottage of Sweets. Fudge, divinity, lemon drops, licorice and more await you in this magical cottage.
Hike at Point Lobos
Visit Point Lobos just south of Carmel River Beach. It is simply breathtaking, and you may even catch a glimpse of harbor seals and more!
Drink With the Dogs
Enjoy “yappy hour” with people and their pooches at Doris Day’s Cypree Inn. Guide yourself past the lovely outdoor seating area near the mural of Charlie Chaplin inside to the lounge. The walls are covered with Doris Day movie photos. Love this place!
You’re Starving, Get Something to Eat
There is no lack of amazing food here in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Enjoy mouth-watering meals at renowned restaurants. One of my personal favorites is Dametra, which has great vibes as well as tasty food. You might even get a musical serenade from one of the cooks while you eat. Other favorites are Mission Ranch, Grasing’s, Flaherty’s Seafood Girl & Oyster Bar, Il Fornaio, Tommy’s Wok and Miracle Sushi.
Find Zen at the Beach
I think the perfect time to go to the beach is near sunset. Watching those ethereal shades of color reflecting on the waves and clouds is simply magical. If you are bringing your fur baby, keep in mind that whilst dogs can run free on Carmel Beach, they are required to be on leash at Carmel River Beach. Also note that while surfing is popular, wading or swimming here is not advised due to dangerous sneaker waves and rip currents. In fact, Monastery Beach is referred to by locals as Mortuary Beach due to the number of folks swept out to sea there every year.
Time to Wine Down
Wine tasting is another awesome activity while you are here. There are tons of amazing and award winning wine tasting rooms in Carmel-by-the-Sea. My favorite is De Tierra, not only because their vineyard is just down the road from me, but also because they have a spectacular pinot noir and chardonnay!
Take Photos in Front of the Carmel Mural
Before you leave this fairytale town, don’t forget to snap a selfie in front of the Carmel-by-the-Sea mural. It is located at the corner of Mission Street and 6th Avenue across from Devendorf Park . You may want to check out my guide to the the most beautiful Instagrammable spots in the area as well!
Helpful Hints:
- Bring clothing you can layer, it can be quite chilly in the morning and evening here, and the wind can be very strong at the beach.
- Watch for pedestrians when driving, especially when on side streets where there are no sidewalks. Carmel residents are often out walking their dogs.
- Acquaint yourselves with all the beach regulations. My friend Whitney received a very steep fine for having a bonfire on the beach because she simply didn’t know the requirements. For more information, see beach rules.
- Parking is free, however, it is limited to 2 hours or less in the business district. Unlimited free parking is available at Vista Lobos parking lot on Torres and 3rd, the Sunset Center parking lot on 8th between Mission and San Carlos Streets, and the Del Mar parking lot near the beach at the end of Ocean Avenue. Be aware that many Carmel residents have “no parking” signs near their property and please be respectful of this.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found my guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea useful and informative. I just know you will love it! Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas.
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The 5 Reasons You Will Love These Summer Finds!
What are you up to this summer? Planning any trips? Get-togethers with family or friends? My summer is off to a great start. My keyword for this summer is “optimism”. I was able to recently get together with a group of colleagues for dinner and it just really felt good. Like, finally, a return to normalcy. I have been planning some fun day trips and also some fun activities, such as making homemade soy candles (new post to come!) and working in my garden. Father’s Day will be pretty sad, since I recently lost my Dad in January, but I know he is in a better place. I can carry on all the things we both loved, such as enjoying the sunshine (with sunscreen!), gardening, going to thrift stores, and wearing hats!
Summer = Happy
Whether you will be heading to the beach, the lake, or just chilling out in your own backyard, here are some great summer selections, from sandals to slushies. They are not only comfy, cute, happy, colorful and fun. but will also help make your summer the best one ever. I am obsessed with these and hope you love them too.
Source: birkenstock.com
Summer = Cute
Birkenstock Yara Sandals. One thing about these is that if you are like me, they run about a whole size bigger than your regular size. Crazy but true. Also these are sold out in black on Zappos, but you can still get them at Birkenstock. Super comfy, super cute, and will make your feet super happy this summer
Source: anthropologie.com
Summer = Colorful
Brightly Colored Tops & Dresses. Tired of all the monochromatic trends? Coming out of Covid we all need brighter and happier times. Be gone Voldemort shades. This top from Anthropologie definitely fits the bill.
Source: oldnavy.com
Summer = Comfy
High Waisted Straight Leg Jeans from Old Navy. Have you ever been forced to perform the skinny jeans dance, struggling to free your feet from the teeny tiny pant leg bottoms when trying to take them off? Not so with these guys, loving them! FYI, they run a bit small so you may have to go one size larger than what you usually wear.
Summer = Sweet
Watermelon Slushies. Sometimes the best finds are sweet treats! I love this one. It’s like putting a big ol’ bunch of summer in a glass. Recipe: Freeze 3 cups fresh watermelon cubes overnight. In a blender, combine frozen watermelon with an extra 1 cup fresh watermelon, juice from 1/2 lemon/lime, and add 1 tablespoon of raw honey/ agave/ organic maple syrup. Garmish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Summer = Old-Fashioned Fun
Picnic Baskets. Pack up the fam and head out to your happy place with this cute picnic basket from amazon.com. Nothing is better than having an old-fashioned picnic with the peeps you love.
Summer is a time to enjoy longer days, more sunshine, and good times with family and friends. Thank you for visiting my blog. You may also enjoy Wine Tasting in Carmel Valley, California! Hope you have a beautiful and blessed summer. Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas!
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The Most Beautiful Instagrammable Spots in Monterey!
Central coastal California offers so many spectacular attractions. From sun drenched beaches, to dramatic rock formations, to fabled architecture, there is beauty everywhere. As a result, photographers are naturally drawn to the area. Instagrammable opportunities abound not only in Monterey, but also in neighboring Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Pacific Grove. Follow along with me to see some of the most beautiful Instagrammable photo spots here in Monterey County!
1. McWay Falls in Big Sur. First on my list is McWay Falls. Featuring stunning views of an 80-foot waterfall cascading into the Pacific Ocean, this spot is Instagrammable gold. It is a long drive, however, it is definitely worth it! To read about the area’s history see McWay Falls. For park info, see Julia Pfeiffer Burns. Location: Located 37 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1 near mile marker 35.8.
2. The Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur. For a few brief weeks during the winter solstice, the sunset casts an ethereal glow through the Keyhole Arch, however, the area is absolutely gorgeous year round. The magenta tinted sand and unique rock formations offer boundless photo ops. For more information, see Keyhole Arch. Location: Just south of the Big Sur Station at mile marker 45.64 on Highway 1. Be sure to watch for the hairpin turn on the right. Follow Sycamore Canyon Road approximately two miles to the parking area. For park information see Pfeiffer Beach.
3. Nepenthe in Big Sur. This iconic bohemian restaurant has been the haunt of artists and writers such as Henry Miller, Anais Nin, Man Ray, Ernest Hemingway and more. Why Nepenthe? Because it features not only jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Big Sur coastline, but also a colorful kaleidoscope of other Instagrammable shots. For more information see Nepenthe and Menu & Hours. Location: 48510 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920.
4. Bixby Bridge in Big Sur. While you are not guaranteed the perfect shot at this popular spot, you most certainly won’t be disappointed. One of the most photographed bridges in California, Bixby Bridge is 13 miles south of Carmel on Highway 1.
5. The Mural in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Doesn’t this just holler “fashion/style shots”? This was completed just last year, and is meant to depict the ocean and the rebirth of hope. Location: Corner of Mission St. and 6th Ave., across from Devendorf Park in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
6. Fairytale Homes in Carmel-by-the-Sea. One of the magical things about this area is the abundance of fairy tale homes, many originally built by Hugh Comstock in the 1920s. For more information on these homes see Fairy Tale Cottages in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Getting a shot of one of these cuties is undoubtedly a must when visiting Carmel! Location: While you will find these sweet cottages tucked away throughout the town, there are several in the area bordered by Torres St., Ocean Ave., 5th Ave. and Santa Rita. Storybook Cottage is located within this region on Santa Fe.
7. Lovers Point in Pacific Grove. Featuring breathtaking views stretching from Monterey to Pebble Beach, Lovers Point, located in Pacific Grove, is simply stunning. Lovers Point has been the setting for several films, for instance, the “Big Little Lies” HBO series. You will definitely find many Instagram-worthy shots here. For more information see Lovers Point. Location: 17th Street and Ocean View Blvd., Pacific Grove, CA.
8. Asilomar State Beach Gazebo in Pacific Grove. Stretched between Lover’s Point and Pebble Beach, this magnificent beach features walking paths, boardwalks, and benches overlooking crashing waves and stunning rock formations. A solitary gazebo, accessible from the boardwalk, provides the backdrop for dramatic photos, especially at sunset. For more information, see Asilomar. Location: Sunset Drive, Pacific Grove, CA.
9. Pacific Grove’s Quirky Victorians. Pacific Grove is known as “America’s Last Hometown”. Beautiful Victorians line the streets of this seaside village, providing the perfect Instagrammable shots. Location: Pacific Grove, California.
10. The Lone Cypress in Pebble Beach. This iconic tree towering above crashing waves will undoubtedly provide the backdrop for your next epic shot. Location: 3212 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, CA.
11. Cannery Row in Monterey. Historic buildings, charming restaurants, shops and hotels line the streets. Further down Cannery Row you will find the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are so many Instagrammable shots here, so little time! Location: Cannery Row begins at San Carlos Beach Park at the corner of Reeside Ave. and Cannery Row, Monterey, CA.
12. Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey. There are so many visual stories to tell here. Firstly, the buildings are painted in eye-popping pastel colors. Secondly, the harbor houses a variety of boats. Thirdly, sea life abounds, including pelicans and seals. Finally, the long strand of beach and flowers blooming on the banks add further appeal. As a result, you are sure to find some Instagram-worthy shots. Location: 101 Washington St., Monterey, CA.
Thank you for visiting my blog! I hope you found some inspiration after viewing my favorite Instagrammable spots here in Monterey County. If you can think of more, let me know in the comments section. Wishing you peace, love, joy, and beautiful vistas.