Feeling the love; a story and a fun book giveaway…

I love a good book, especially one pertaining to food allergies, a topic so close to many of our hearts. Food allergy advocate and blogger Sloane Miller, AKA Allergic Girl, has written her first book, Allergic Girl: Adventures in Living Well with Food Allergies, which officially hits stands March 1st (although I do believe it is already available for order through Amazon).  I haven’t had a chance to read it yet, but will pass along my thoughts when I do. The book is sure to be filled with great advice and stories from Sloane’s personal lifelong experiences of living with food allergies. I’m not one to do giveaways on my blog but this one is fun AND gives y’all a chance to win your own copy.

All you have to do to win Sloane’s new book is to comment about your most memorable or favorite loving act you did for your food allergic loved one. At the end of the week I’ll randomly select a name through Random.org and have the book sent to you from Sloane herself. How fun is that??

To get this started I’ll share my story: My sister in law sends Valentine’s cards to all my children every year and includes one free donut treat card in each card. The cards came yesterday, and my two little guys David and Matthew had to have those donuts as soon as possible!  So this morning, the boys reminded me promptly after waking up that today is the day to get the donuts. In normal circumstances, this is cute, fun and what getting impromptu treats is all about. However, I thought about John, who never said a word. He knows he can’t have it, and is never, ever able to partake in this simple joy of childhood. Then it occurred to me, that just because he can’t have those donuts, doesn’t mean he can’t go along with us for the ride.

So when my daughter and two other boys were suiting up to go out to the car, I told John to grab his coat and come with us. He looked shocked, and asked why? “I can’t have it Mom” he said. I told him that while this is true, it doesn’t mean he can’t go and see what it’s all about. Sometimes the magic lies in being in that moment, the anticipation of going there, looking around, and seeing what looks yummy. It isn’t always the treat that matters. I wanted him to know and share in that joy of coming with to take a look around at all those donuts. Besides, I promised to make him whatever he wanted later in the day, a special treat just for him.  John’s gorgeous brown eyes it up and he excitedly got up to get his gear on.

It was fun for him to see all the flavors and and the experience inspired me to create some new donuts that he wants to try. It was a meaningful moment for both of us. I can’t wait to get back in the kitchen again for him, and for all your kiddos too.

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!!! You’re the best readers anywhere and I’m so grateful for your comments, support and never ending recipe testing!! Love it all!