Cauliflower Broccoli 'Mac' and Cheese : Low Carb : Gluten Free

This post was prompted by Ivy - The Happy Whisk when she recently commented on my Vegetable Frittata Bake here. "Don't know if I ever told you this or not but we make a non-noodle mac and cheese with cauli and it's sooooooooo good."

That comment then made me think about this low carb broccoli and cauliflower 'macaroni' and cheese dish, which I thought I would share with you all today.

This healthy low carb, gluten free cauliflower broccoli 'mac' and cheese dish can stand alone as a main dish, or be served along-side your favourite protein.

Ingredients

(5.4 grams of net carbs per serving)
2 pints of heavy (double) whipping cream
½ stick of unsalted butter ¼ cup
8 ounces of full-fat cream cheese
2 cups of shredded /grated sharp (mature) cheddar cheese (reserve ½ cup for topping
5 ounces of fresh shredded / grated parmesan cheese (reserve 2 ounces for topping)
1 medium head of broccoli (florets about 2 cups)
1 large head of cauliflower (florets about 5 cups)
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper or to taste
1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or to taste

Method
1. Coarsely chop the fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets to resemble macaroni pasta set aside
2. Steam cook the fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets being careful to not over-cook.
3. Melt the butter in a large heavy sauce pan.
4. Stir in the heavy (double) whipping cream
5. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and incorporated
6. Add 3 ounces parmesan cheese (reserve 2 ounces for the topping.
7. Add 1 ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese (reserve the other ½ cup for topping)
8. Stir in the salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
9. Allow to cook on low to medium heat until the cheese sauce if fully incorporated and all the cheeses are fully melted.
10. Add to the steamed broccoli and cauliflower add cheese sauce and cook for about 10 minutes on low, stirring constantly
11. In a large buttered casserole pan add the faux broccoli and cauliflower mac and cheese.
12. Top with 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 2 ounces of fresh parmesan cheese.
13. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes in a lightly buttered 9x13 baking pan/dish. 

14. Broil (grill) for 5 minutes on high or until the top is nicely browned.

Serving Size 1 cup
Servings Per Container 10

Please see original recipe, nutritional information and more here
If you need help with measurement/weight conversion use these charts here

~ a seasonable table decoration to wish you an enjoyable day ~

Dear reader, you will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Diabetes Pioneer Stories : Eva Saxl

Pioneers of Diabetes

Thank you to all who read my earlier Diabetes Pioneer Story, featuring Frederick Banting (see it here) and a special thank you to those who left a comment.

As I stated in my earlier post November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and Diabetes.co.uk are celebrating the pioneers of diabetes. I thought readers here may also like to read and learn more about these pioneers! 

So, this second post is about Eva Saxl, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1940 at the age of 19. Alongside her husband, Victor, Eva was able to survive World War II by making her own insulin.

In 1940, 19-year-old Eva Saxl fled Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia with her husband, Victor.

They settled in Shanghai the same year Eva was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

She began insulin therapy after collapsing at the dinner table.

When insulin ran out

As Japanese occupation intensified, pharmacies closed and legal insulin supplies vanished.

After a friend died from contaminated black-market insulin, Eva refused that route. Instead, the couple found “Beckman’s Internal Medicine,” read how Banting and Best had extracted insulin, and decided to try, making insulin from scratch.

Money and materials were scarce. Eva and Victor knitted stockings to fund water-buffalo pancreases, borrowed a small lab, and produced a brown insulin extract.

They tested it on rabbits, then accepting the risks of contamination and unknown potency, Eva tested it on herself. It worked.

A clinic for their community

Victor took the first vial to a nearby hospital and treated two diabetics who were close to death; both survived.

The Saxls then set up a clinic, rationing about 16 units per person per day – enough to keep roughly 400 people with diabetes in the Shanghai ghetto alive.

Rather than charge, they asked for donations to support the man who had lent them the lab.

Liberation and public advocacy

After American forces liberated their Jewish ghetto, the Saxls received clear insulin to distribute.

They later moved to New York, where their work drew national attention: President Eisenhower invited them to the White House, a Hollywood documentary told their story, and Eva became a spokeswoman for the American Diabetes Association – helping to challenge the stigma surrounding diabetes in the 1940s and 1950s.

Later years and legacy

After Victor died in 1968, Eva moved to Santiago, Chile to join her brother and worked to secure medicines for underprivileged children. She died in 2002.

Read more about Eva Saxl here

h/t to Diabetes.co.uk here

There will be one more post shortly featuring another Diabetes Pioneer ... but have you read about Dr Judith Steel? If you haven't you can see the post here

So thankful for these remarkable people ...

All the best Jan

Sausage, Parsnip, Onion and Apple Tray Bake : A Super Saturday Supper or Dinner

Try this easy one-step sausage tray bake recipe.

It takes minutes to prepare and approx. one hour sizzling in the oven.

A few simple ingredients, including some good quality sausages (meat or vegetarian), can make a hearty and comforting tray bake dinner. Peel and chop parsnips and red onions, mix with some olive oil and fresh rosemary and place in the oven. After 15 minutes the sausages go in and 45 minutes later you're done. Just serve with some sweet and sharp apple sauce. There is an alternative sugar free apple sauce recipe here

A super Saturday supper or dinner 😋

Ingredients
Serves Four
600 g (1lb 5oz) parsnips, peeled and chopped
2 red onions, chopped
1 tbsp. olive oil
3 sprigs rosemary
8 sausages (of your choice)

Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) mark 6.
2. In a large baking tray, mix the parsnips, red onions, olive oil, rosemary and seasoning. Spread in a single layer and cook for 1hr, adding the sausages after 15min.
3. Serve with the apple sauce.

From an original idea here

~ wishing you a lovely day ~

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Did You Know?

Sharing three random facts - did you know any of them? Do please share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Identical twins don’t have the same fingerprints.

You can’t blame your crimes on your twin, after all. This is because environmental factors during development in the womb (umbilical cord length, position in the womb, and the rate of finger growth) affect your fingerprint.

Read more here

Earth’s rotation is changing speed.

It's actually slowing. This means that, on average, the length of a day increases by around 1.8 seconds per century. 600 million years ago a day lasted just 21 hours.

Read more here

Most people stroke cats the wrong way. 

Research shows they often just tolerate it for the food and attention. The safest spots? Under the chin, cheeks and base of the ears. The worst? Their belly and the base of their tail – touch there and you’re more likely to annoy them than bond with them.

Read more here

Dear reader, this blog is presented in a magazine style, and you will find a variety of articles, studies, thoughts, funnies, photographs, music and recipes. However, not all the recipe ideas featured in this blog may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic (more about this here) and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Vegetable Frittata Bake

A family favourite, it's a recipe I have shared previously, but in case you missed it, here it is again!

Ingredients
Serves Four (but can easily be amended to suit)

1 cup Broccoli floweret's and stalk
1 cup Cauliflower floweret's and stalk
1 Zucchini (courgette) sliced into 2 cm slices
½ cup Mushrooms sliced (not too thinly)
1 small onion sliced into large pieces (quartered)
1 tbsp. Butter
1 cup Cream
4 Eggs
1 tbsp. Mustard, wholegrain (optional)
Salt and pepper
¼ cup Cheese, grated (cheddar works well)

Instructions
Steam (or boil) broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini (courgette) until just cooked but still very firm.
Drain and cool slightly.
Heat butter in a small pan and add mushrooms and onion until both have softened slightly.
Place all cooked vegetables in a baking dish (20-30 cm).
Beat eggs, cream and mustard, add salt and pepper and pour over the vegetables.
Top with grated cheese.
Bake at 180º C (350º F / Gas Mark 4) for around 30 minutes or until the dish is firm and browned on top.

Nutritional Details Per Serving
Fat 31.7g Protein 10.4g Carbs 2.2g

Need help with weight / measurement conversion, look here

From an original idea here

~ enjoy your day ~

This blog brings a variety of recipe ideas, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Put Used Tea Bags In My Car!!! Whatever Next?

Dear reader, you will find this blog is presented in a magazine style, something for everyone. There are a variety of articles, studies, thoughts, photographs, music and recipes! Please note, however, that not all recipe suggestions may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

~ xxxxx ~

Todays post concerns tea bags and putting them in your car! Now, I know many use tea bags in their gardens but I'd not come across using them in your car before ... have you?

"Drivers urged to put tea bags in cars from Tuesday

Drivers across the UK are being urged to put used tea bags inside their cars from Tuesday 18th November as snow and ice is forecast. The Met Office has issued multiple yellow weather warnings for snow and ice this week affecting Northern Ireland, parts of Wales, northern and southwest parts of England and much of Scotland, with temperatures expected to plummet below zero in some parts. The wintry conditions means drivers will likely wake up to a layer of condensation on their car windows this week, as cold weather typically makes it worse. Condensation forms when warm, moist air inside the car meets the cold surface of the glass, causing water vapour to condense and form droplets, and this tends to be more pronounced in winter or in bouts of very cold weather.

photo credit : Claire Schofield

The colder the outside temperature is, the more dramatic the temperature drop when warm air hits the glass, which leads to fogging. Condensation and fogging can take a while to clear, which can be very frustrating ahead of a morning commute, but there is a simple remedy you can use to tackle the problem - and all you need is some used tea bags.

Used tea bags - particularly used black and green tea bags - are very effective at reducing condensation and dampness inside cars because the tea leaves contain substances that are naturally absorbent.

As such, they can be used to draw excess moisture from the air and essentially act as a natural dehumidifier which can prove particularly useful on freezing cold mornings.

Currently, there are three separate weather warnings for ice on Tuesday, November 18, plus a warning for snow, and a warning for snow and ice, affecting large swathes of northern parts of the UK.

Further warnings for snow and ice are in force until Thursday, November 20, so drivers are likely to find they're waking up to damp, misty and potentially frozen windscreens.

To help tackle this, experts recommend placing some used tea bags, or small bowls of loose tea, around the inside of your car, such as on the dashboard or in the door pockets. Doing so can lower the risk of condensation forming on windscreens, which in turn helps drivers avoid being handed a fine of up to £2,500.

The Highway Code says drivers should always completely demist their windows before setting off and condensation can obstruct this, and if you try to drive with an obscured view you could be fined up to £2,500 and get penalty points on your license, especially if it leads to an accident.

Ben Pitcher, motoring specialist at DPF Experts, says tea bags are a great solution to this problem as they're naturally absorbent, cheap and likely already knocking around in your kitchen cupboard.

He explains: "Tea bags, especially black or green tea, are natural moisture absorbers. Placing them in your car can help reduce condensation, especially in colder months. Though they aren't as powerful as professional dehumidifiers, they're a cheap, eco-friendly solution for tackling minor dampness."

Green and black tea are able to absorb moisture that can form when the temperature inside a car is different to that outside and, as an added bonus, it can also improve the smell of your vehicle. Tea bags can absorb and neutralise unpleasant odours, leaving your car smelling much fresher with very little effort.

Pitcher also says packets of silica gel, which is commonly found in packaging for things like shoes, electronics and food items, can also have a similar effect and will help to clear car windscreens in the morning when condensation is most common.

He adds: "Silica gel packets, commonly found in packaging, are excellent at absorbing moisture. Collecting a few and placing them around your car can help control condensation. While they won't clear foggy windows instantly, they can help reduce moisture and keep your windscreen clearer for longer."

The above from article seen 18/11/25 here

Well, I never ...

Do please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Wherever you are I wish you safe driving.

All the best Jan

Diabetes Pioneer Stories : Frederick Banting

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and Diabetes.co.uk are celebrating some of the pioneers of diabetes. I thought readers here may also like to read and learn more about these pioneers!

I'm just going to do three posts ... obviously they will not cover all pioneers of diabetes and I give a link below to a few more. Like any part of the medical profession there has been and continues to be much needed research into diabetes and way back in 1989, the Queen Mother lit a flame of hope in Banting’s honour, commemorating all the people who died from diabetes. The flame will only be extinguished when a cure for diabetes is found.

Nobel Prize winner Frederick Banting developed the idea of insulin into a practical treatment on humans, marking one of the biggest medical discoveries of the 20th century.

Alongside Charles Best, Banting chose to make insulin available to diabetes patients without charge, which led to insulin therapy and production spreading across the world.

Discovery of insulin
Banting was educated at the University of Toronto, where he first studied divinity, but transferred to medicine shortly after.

After being injured serving in the First World War – he was awarded the Military Cross from heroism under fire – he became fascinated with diabetes.

Building on existing research that reported a hormone named insulin controlled the metabolism of sugar, Banting investigated why a lack of it led to increased sugar in the blood and urine.

Previous attempts to insert patients with pancreatic extracts or a fresh pancreas failed.

Banting’s research at the University of Toronto led him to create a pancreatic extract, which after weeks of experimentation, resulted in thousands of islet cells being left behind. Extracts of insulin were then taken from these islets.

Insulin was discovered by Frederick Banting, Charles H Best and JJR Macleod at the University of Toronto in 1921.

First, the insulin was tested on dogs, which regulated their blood glucose levels. Later in 1922, it was tested on Leonard Thompson, the first human being to be administered with insulin. The first dose failed, as it was too impure, but a second dose purified by James B. Collip, proved successful.

Banting further developed the insulin alongside laboratory director John MacLeod, and the two of them were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology of Medicine in 1923.

They shared the prize money with their entire team, who were not recognised by the Nobel committee.

Diabetes legacy
Banting later investigated problems from silicosis and cancer, before serving in the British and North American services during the Second World War. In 1941, he was killed in an air crash during a mission.

In 1989, the Queen Mother lit a flame of hope in Banting’s honour, commemorating all the people who died from diabetes.

The flame will only be extinguished when a cure for diabetes is found.

h/t Diabetes,co.uk here

More Pioneer Stories here

All the best Jan

Roasted vegetables with herbs and feta : Mary Berry recipe

Before I start this post, I want to say THANK YOU to all readers who visit this blog, and a special thank you for all who take time to leave a comment. It is lovely to receive, read and share your thoughts, comments and good wishes.

Now ...do you enjoy eating roasted vegetables? I do ...and if you should ever find yourself making too many, find they taste great the day after too! You can also use them in frittatas - quite yummy! This recipe idea comes from the wonderful Mary Berry and she adds feta, mint and basil when serving them ... delicious 😋

Ingredients

Serves Six
2 small or 1 large aubergine/eggplant, halved and cut into 15mm/⅝in slices
350g/12oz peeled butternut squash, cut into 2cm/¾in cubes
2 medium courgettes/zucchini, halved and cut into 1cm/½in slices
2 large red peppers, seeds removed, cut into large 4cm/1½in pieces
4 tbsp olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the dressing
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
4 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp caster sugar
1 heaped tsp grainy mustard
1 banana shallot, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed

To serve
100g/3½oz feta, crumbled (optional)
2 tbsp chopped mint
2 tbsp chopped basil

Method
1. Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7. Line two large baking trays with baking paper.
2. Put the vegetables into a bowl, add the oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss until coated. Arrange in a single layer on the baking trays.
3. Roast in the oven for 30–40 minutes, or until golden and little crisp – turn halfway through if needed. Leave to cool on the baking trays.
4. For the dressing, measure all of the dressing ingredients into a jug. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
5. Put the vegetables on a serving platter or in a bowl. Pour over the dressing and check the seasoning. Scatter with the feta (if using), mint and basil and serve.
From an idea seen here

If you may be looking for an alternative to feta cheese, see here

~ enjoy your day, and the week ahead ~

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

My Sunday Wish For You ...

Whatever your Sunday plans are

I wish you a peaceful and joyful day

Stay safe and stay well

~ Happy Sunday ~

All the best Jan

Weekend Recipe Suggestions ... here are three!

Well yesterdays weather for many here in the UK was wet as Storm Claudia brought heavy and persistent rain to parts of the United Kingdom. I didn't venture out but enjoyed a quiet day doing a little housework and some reading, which was most enjoyable.

Now it's the weekend again (don't they come round quickly), and as one of the grandchildren mentioned to me, there are only six weekends 'til Christmas! Is it me or has this year flown by? I've started doing a little Christmas shopping, but still have more to do.  

Anyway back to the weekend ... on todays post I share three meals that you may wish to try for lunch, dinner or supper! If you should be carb. conscious the sausage recipe has 25 carbs per serving, the chicken one 14 carbs per serving and the vegetable one 35... but of course you can check the details out on the links given.

Sausage and Bean Casserole

more details here

Flying Jacob (Flygande Jacob)

a classic Swedish Chicken Dish - more details here

Vegetarian Stew

 a slow cooker recipe - more details here

Whatever your plans are for the weekend

I wish you a happy and peaceful one

You will find a variety of recipe ideas within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e., use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

World Diabetes Day 2025 : The Alternative Apple Crumble/Crisp Recipe

 

~ November 14th is World Diabetes Day ~

Diabetes can impact people across all life stages, including childhood, the reproductive years, working age and older adulthood.

The theme of this year’s WHO World Diabetes Day, is "Diabetes across life stages,” which recognizes that every person living with diabetes should have access to integrated care, supportive environments and policies that promote health, dignity and self-management. The campaign emphasizes the importance of a life-course approach to diabetes prevention, management and overall well-being.

World Diabetes Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness and knowledge about diabetes as a critical global public health issue, and to create lasting change for all affected by diabetes.

Please read more here

Autumn is definitely the right season for delicious apple crumble/crisp, and I can remember my dear Mum making a wonderful variety of crumbles using fruits appropriate to the season. She made it 'the traditional' way with flour, sugar etc. which if you have a look around the many recipes available on the 'net' you will see the carbohydrate content could be anything from 46g plus per serving! Now, if you are diabetic this would have your blood sugars rising, (best avoided!) and if like me you choose to eat the LCHF way and restrict your carb intake a 'traditional' crumble is best avoided!

However, fear not, Apple Crumble (which some call Apple Crisp) has a lower carb (alternative) version, and I share details below.

Ingredients
Serves 8
6 (Granny smith) apples, peeled and sliced
50g Butter
1 cup Almond meal
1 tbsp. Natvia (sweetener)
Optional
½ cup chopped nuts or Crunchy Grain Free Granola

Instructions
1. Boil apples until soft in a small amount of water. Place in a baking dish.
2. Place softened butter, almond meal, Natvia, and nuts in bowl and mix together (real crumble requires mixing by hand), until well combined but still crumbly.
3. Spread over cooked apples and bake at 180 for 30 minutes or until crumble is golden brown.
4. Serve warmed with fresh cream or yoghurt.

Nutritional Information - Each serving

Fat 27.3g Carbohydrates 14.9g Protein 7.1g

Please note that nutritional information is calculated for 1 serve of crumble and does not include cream or yoghurt. 

Recipe suggestion is from Julia McPhee's blog here
If you need help with measurement and conversion please see here

A reminder
Just look at the difference in carb count:-
14.9g per serving in the low carb version
46g per serving in the 'traditional' version

You will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter.

If you would like to read more about eating lower carb foods, and the LCHF lifestyle, why not see the posts 'Introduction to low-carb for beginners' here and 'What is LCHF' here

Please be aware that articles / studies and any comments within this blog are provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, including medication, you should contact your Doctor/local health care provider.

All the best Jan

On World Kindness Day : Why is Kindness Important?

World Kindness Day, Thursday November 13th 2025, is celebrated across the UK and globally to promote kindness, compassion, and acceptance. The day encourages acts of kindness, both big and small, and provides an opportunity to focus on how to be kinder to ourselves and others.

"Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a harder battle. – Plato

The art of kindness is an underrated art. Ask anyone around you whether or not they think kindness is important, and more often than not, about ninety percent of them would tell you that it is important.

Why is kindness important?
A question we find an easy answer to. Yet, it only takes a glance at society to see that we still have a long way to go when it comes to mastering kindness. This, generally, stems from the fact that despite professing it on the surface, some of us don’t really understand .

Others who do, don’t really understand the complete facets of kindness.

In this article, we explore 11 crucial reasons why is kindness important, shedding even more light on why to progress as a society, we must place a higher emphasis on kindness and begin to show it more.

Kindness in Two Forms
Before we move on thoroughly into highlighting the importance of kindness, it is first crucial that we understand what the term means in the first place.

To do this, we have to look at the whole idea of kindness from two angles – as something we do unto others and as something we give to ourselves.

Kindness to Others
Showing kindness to others is perhaps the most popular phrase humans throw about without really committing to it. Many don’t even really know what it means in the first place.

To many, showing kindness implies going out of their ways to do something grand and unbelievable for others. Some even believe that they can’t be kind to others until the act of kindness makes them suffer in one way or another.

Generally, though, this isn’t usually the case.

We don’t have to hurt ourselves to be kind to others. Simple acts of kindness such as giving a compliment and offering someone your seat all go a long way in making a difference in someone else’s life.

The more mature you are, the more helpful and kind you are. The reason is that your maturity level is proportional to your kindness.

Kindness to Oneself
The most obscure of the two forms of kindness, “kindness to oneself” is usually overlooked by many because they feel as though it should be a given.

While this is right and kindness to oneself should always be a constant feature in our lives, it usually isn’t. In fact, it isn’t rare to find people who have mastered being kind to others who still haven’t realized that they have to be kind to themselves, too.

Not only is being kind to ourselves essential for our personal growth and the growth of our communities, but it is also one of the best ways to be kinder to others.

In short, if we don’t master the art of being kind to ourselves, it becomes a lot more challenging to be kind to other people.

Why is kindness important?
11 Reasons why being kind matters.

As we grow up, we learn that being kind is a good thing. We are raised in a society where we are taught to be kind and to help others, but why? If we think about it for just a little while, the answer seems fairly obvious.

This list is not comprehensive but it contains 11 of the most powerful reasons that being kind matters in the world.

1. Tremendous emotional return for minimal effort

2. Kindness is Contagious

3. Kindness Builds Bridges

4. It Helps Lift Mental Blocks

5. It is Good Karma

6. Kindness Provides Clarity

7. It Can Brighten up Someone Else’s Day

8. Life is to Live and Love Fully

9. It is a form of Catharsis

10. Being Kind Actually Increases Life Span

11. Kindness is the Perfect Example to Set for Younger Generation

Conclusion
The great writer Henry James once described the three most important things in human life. The first, he said, was being kind. The second? Being kind. The third? Being kind, too.

Looking at the eleven points we’ve highlighted above, it is not hard at all to see why he said what he said. Kindness has always been, and will always remain, one of the most important facets of human lives and interaction.

Once we master kindness, we elevate ourselves, those around us, and our society as well. No other human action offers such a comprehensive benefit with absolutely no side effects.

This is why being kind matters.

Sharing is caring!"

Both images and words above are only a snippet from the original article which you can read in full here

Have you been kind today? Have you helped someone today?
Do please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Perfect for Autumn : a teapot, a quote, Rustic Pork Casserole, and Pumpkin Stew!

An Autumn Teapot

seen here

I am an Autumn person, great words, my drink would be tea,

perhaps I'd use an Autumn teapot!

seen here

~ and now for two delicious recipe suggestions ~

Rustic Style Pork Casserole 

more details here

and for readers who may prefer a vegetarian recipe,

Pumpkin Stew

more details here

Wishing you a happy Autumn Day,

or Spring Day if you are in the Southern Hemisphere.

All the best Jan

November's Birth Flower ...Chrysanthemum which symbolize loyalty, friendship, and joy

Here we are in the eleventh month of the year, yes it's November, and this months birth flower is the chrysanthemum — or mum for short! It so often provides the last pop of colour in the garden and can make excellent decorations for autumn displays. It has a long history of symbolism dating back centuries. Read on to find out more ...

Chrysanthemum Meanings and Symbolism

• Chrysanthemums symbolize loyalty, friendship, and joy, but each colour conveys a specific meaning. For example, red represents true love, white signifies innocence and honesty, and yellow symbolizes a wounded heart or neglected love.
• In parts of Europe, the chrysanthemum is seen as an expression of sorrow and a symbol of death and mourning.
• The Chinese and Japanese view the chrysanthemum as a sign of youth. It was believed to allow people to live longer and keep their bodies healthier. According to folklore, one chrysanthemum petal at the bottom of a glass of wine promotes longevity.
• According to Chinese tradition, the flower prevents grey hair.

The Chrysanthemum in History

The chrysanthemum dates back to the 15th century B.C. in China, where it was grown as a flowering herb and used in salads and teas. In Chinese art, the chrysanthemum is one of the four plants that make up the Four Gentlemen, representing the four seasons, along with the plum blossom, the orchid, and the bamboo. It has been used in China for a long time as a remedy for headaches, to reduce blood pressure, and as an anti-inflammatory. It has also been offered to the elderly as a symbol of long life and good luck.

By the 17th century, chrysanthemums were introduced to Europe and then the United States.

It is the national flower of Japan, and each year, the Festival of Happiness is held on September 9 to celebrate the chrysanthemum. It has long represented royalty and nobleness in Japan and is used on the emperor’s official seal and crest.

The chrysanthemum is the flower given for a 13th anniversary and a traditional flower given on Mother’s Day in Australia. It is the official flower of Chicago, Illinois, too.

The National Chrysanthemum Society was incorporated as a nonprofit in 1954. Since then, the society has created a classification system—13 groups in all—for the diverse blooms.

Above words and image from here

I hope you found the above an interesting read. You may also like to read this post about 'Some Foods In Season During November' which also has some recipe suggestions - please see here

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic (more about this here) and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Carrot and Parsnip Dauphinoise : A side dish which is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas

Oh goodness! Did I just say thanksgiving or Christmas? Yes, I did because these two celebrations are getting nearer and nearer and this recipe could be just what you are looking for!

Dauphinoise (DOE-PHEEN-NOWAAZ) potatoes is how the French say casserole of potatoes, double/heavy cream, and cheese! But the recipe I share here swaps out the potatoes for carrots and parsnips! Yes, you can add a touch of indulgence to your roast with this root vegetable dauphinoise. Carrots and parsnips are cooked in a creamy pecorino sauce, then baked until golden and bubbling - quite yummy!

Ingredients
Serves Eight
20g unsalted butter
500g fat carrots, peeled and sliced into 5-6mm pieces
5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
5g fresh thyme, leaves picked (or 1½ tsp dried thyme)
10g fresh sage, leaves picked, most finely chopped (or 1½ tsp dried sage)
1½ tbsp plain flour
½ vegetable stock cube, made up to 200ml
400ml double (heavy) cream
500g parsnips, peeled and sliced into 5-6mm pieces
30g grated pecorino

Method
1. Preheat the oven to gas 4, 180°C, fan 160°C. Melt the butter in a large, lidded saucepan over a medium heat. Add the carrots, garlic, thyme and chopped herbs and fry for 2 mins, stirring. Add 2 tbsp water, reduce the heat a little to medium-low, then cover and cook for 8 mins.
2. Stir in the flour until the dustiness has disappeared, then gradually stir in the stock and cream. Tip in the parsnips and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5 mins, stirring occasionally, then season and remove from the heat. Transfer to a baking dish about 20 x 25-30cm scraping the last of the sauce over the top.
3. Scatter with the cheese, then cover with a foil tent (peaking the foil in the centre so it doesn’t stick to the top of the dauphinoise) and bake for 40 mins.
4. If making ahead, remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely. If serving straightaway, increase the oven to gas 6, 200°C, fan 180°C. Remove the foil, top with the whole sage leaves and bake for another 20 mins, until golden and bubbling and the veg is tender when pierced with a knife. Leave to rest for 10 mins before serving.

Tip
Freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge for 24 hrs, then bring to room temperature 1 hr before baking. Bake, covered, at gas 6, 200°C, fan 180°C for 15 mins, then remove the foil, top with the sage and bake for another 20 mins.

Nutrition Per Serving

Carbohydrate 14.7g Protein 3.6g Fat 28g Fibre 5.8g
From idea seen here

Did you know
Pecorino cheese is an Italian cheese made from sheep's milk, particularly the milk of the Sardinian breed of sheep known as "Pecora" in Italian, from which it gets its name. There are several types of Pecorino cheese, each with unique characteristics, but they all share a distinctive, tangy flavour and a crumbly texture. Pecorino cheese is known for its versatility and is often grated, shaved, or simply eaten on its own. It pairs well with any number of Italian wines. The characteristics of Pecorino cheese frequently vary depending on the regional topography, the length of the aging period, and the specific cheese-making techniques used. More to read here

Goodness, why wait perhaps try out the recipe now 😃 Another recipe you may like is Dauphinoise Casserole with Cabbage or Celeriac, see details here

~ winter decor for the table ~

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, and it is important to note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic (more about this here) and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use a reliable meter. If you have any concerns about your health it is always advisable to consult your Doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan

Remembrance Sunday 2025 - We Will Remember Them

Today, Sunday 9 November, the National Service of Remembrance will be held at the Cenotaph on Whitehall, London, UK. The service will commemorate the contribution of British and Commonwealth military and civilian servicemen and women involved in the two World Wars and later conflicts.

We will remember them, and say thank you to the brave men and women,

past and present who fight to preserve our freedoms.

IN FLANDERS FIELDS

In Flanders' fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place: and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,

Loved and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders' fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe;

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high,

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders' Fields.

After the First World War, the poppy was adopted as a symbol of Remembrance.

In the spring of 1915, shortly after losing a friend in Ypres, a Canadian doctor, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was inspired by the sight of poppies growing in battle-scarred fields to write the now famous poem called 'In Flanders Fields'.

We Will Remember Them

Jan

Messages in a bottle found after 100 years

Here in the UK it is Remembrance Sunday tomorrow, so I thought it a good moment to post this rather amazing story ...

Messages in a bottle found after 100 years

photo credit - Deb Brown

"Letters written by two Australian soldiers more than one hundred years ago have been found on a beach on the country's south-west coast.

They were rolled up inside a bottle which had been thrown into the sea as the pair sailed to France to help during the First World War.

The cheerful notes were written in pencil and were dated August 1916.

The letters have now been passed onto to the relatives of the two soldiers, who were "stunned" by their discovery.

photo credit - Deb Brown

The messages were written by two soldiers - Private Malcolm Neville and Private William Harley.

According to Private Harley's letter, the bottle was thrown overboard "somewhere in the Bight", which refers to the Great Australian Bight - a large open bay off the country's southern coast.

The bottle was found earlier this month by a local family on a remote beach, near the town of Esperance in Western Australia.

They were clearing litter from the beach when they spotted a thick glass bottle in the sand.

Though the paper was wet, both letters were still readable, so the family began looking for the soldiers' families in order to pass them on.

When both soldiers' families were located, the notes came as a real surprise.

Private Neville's great-nephew told ABC News the experience had been "unbelievable."

While Private Harley's granddaughter said that she and her family were "absolutely stunned" by the message.

Experts think the bottle may only have been in the water for a few weeks before it landed on the beach, where it may have remained buried for 100 years."
Story and images from here

What an amazing find ...

All the best Jan