Simplicity Matters

Simplicity matters in many areas of our lives and often times we can feel overwhelmed by making our lives more complicated than is needed.  Living with food allergies is rarely simple, so seeking simplicity in meals can make a big difference in the everyday aspects of managing a restricted diet.  I manage to personally turn the simple into complicated, so here are some lessons I have learned:

Keep it simple stupid:  I am cooking for a child; it does not need to be a 5 star meal every time.   What he really wants is a warm tortilla with melted cheese…not the whole enchilada.

    Chill:  Bake ahead and keep those muffins and cupcakes in the freezer.  Pull out the treats when you need them for special occasions and birthday parties.

    Tried and True:  Weeknights are generally not a great time to experiment with a new recipe, keep to the menu items that they love and try new things on the weekend.

    Communicate: I sent my son to school with a new flavor of the coconut yogurt, but didn’t eat it because it was chocolate and not vanilla.   Oops! Adding variety in their diet should be done at home in case they have any questions.   They do depend on parents for guidance and reassurance.

    Have an Extra Epi-pen:  We limped along with one for a long time because I was primarily with my son, but now that he is older and going to and from activities with different drivers, we needed an extra one for my husband and grandparents.

    Plan Ahead:  I think I have stated this rule in many different contexts.  Bring special food items with you when you travel and keep a stash of food allergy friendly snacks in the car. 

    Plan B:  Have a backup plan in the case you need one.  Ours: Fritos and bean dip can be found at any gas station in America.  Questions about what to eat for lunch, dinner, snack, etc. are solved.

    Have Fun:  If you are less stressed, your child will be less stressed also!  Go and play with your precious child.

       Support Each Other: It’s easy to feel like no one else “gets it”.  I am pretty sure that I don’t totally get what it would be like to deal with juvenile diabetes, ADHA, seizures, etc.  Our friends and neighbors have challenges, too. 

       Breathe:  Inhale saying “chill” and exhale saying “keep it simple stupid” and repeat.