Dairy-Free Coffee Creamer

Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer {simplyhappenstance.com}-10:: Dairy-Free Coffee Creamer ::

If we were having a morning chat on the phone, six months ago, chances are… I would have had a cup of coffee in my hand. For years, I have really looked forward to waking up to a warm, sweet cup of coffee. Not only do I love the taste… but I also look forward to the smell. It takes me back to my childhood… always smelling a pot of coffee brewing each morning. There is something so cozy and comforting about coffee! 

Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer {simplyhappenstance.com}-7

Although I always loved the smell of coffee, I didn’t develop a love for the flavor until I was 12 and living in Venezuela with my family on our sailboat. We would frequent whatever town we were anchored outside of, and often get a cup of café con leche {coffee with milk}. Such sweet memories…  [Read more…]

Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf

Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf

 :: Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf ::

{gluten-free}

Let’s talk about this Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf… Nicole and I have already posted several of our favorite banana muffin and bread recipes; however, this one is PERFECT for those of you on a wheat- or gluten-free diet!

As some of you may already know, I have been experimenting with a wheat-free lifestyle since the beginning of January. I have really noticed a difference in my body and my overall headaches, which is a great breakthrough for me. I have spent the last three months eating primarily wheat-free and then… our trip to Maui happened. I purposely let my eating plan go out the window; embracing the warm sunshine, salty sea air, and banana macadamia nut pancakes topped with fresh whipped cream {Haha}! It was wonderful… but upon coming home, I knew my body needed a little detox from my vacation eating! I chose to start the Whole30 the day after we came home from our trip. Smart? Umm… perhaps not! My poor body was forced to deal with the time difference, high altitude {we live a mile above sea level}, and elimination of carbs AND my beloved morning coffee! Sugar, dairy, grains, lentils/beans, and anything processed was removed abruptly! {Yikes!}

Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf

Well… as of today, I am 1/3 of the way through my 3o days. I had horrendous headaches day 2 and 3, but have been feeling fairly good and energetic since. I really haven’t had any cravings for sugar or coffee since then, but I will say… it has taken quite a bit of self-control when we are out. Yesterday we went to a minor league baseball game with the kids. I was surrounded by all of that deliciously junky baseball field food! I stuck with a Larabar and water! {Victory!} [Read more…]