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Your Family Will Love These Rolls
How far are you in your plans for Easter?
I`m impressed with anyone who has it all figured out already.
If you`re looking for a gluten free roll recipe to have with dinner, these Gluten Free Crescent Rolls are my absolute favorite. They`re made with Cup 4 Cup gluten free flour blend, which is now dairy free.
(However my recipe does use butter.)
Find my recipe and my tips for success in my blog post.
Comment CRESCENT and I`ll DM you the link.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/gluten-free-crescent-rolls/
What Are Your Tips for Navigating a Holiday Meal?
One of the most difficult things about Celiac Disease is the loss of spontaneity. The inability to show up and enjoy food without having to ask questions first.
I get that it sucks. A lot.
But we can either choose to let our Celiac Disease to control us, or choose to be in control of the situation with a little bit of pre-planning.
I`ll be sharing lots of gluten free Easter recipes over the next few weeks. But before we get to what is on our menu, let`s think a little bit about how we`ll make sure we (and our gf family members) will stay safe.
My blog post includes 10 tips on navigating eating gluten free during the holidays. While I originally wrote this for Christmas, these same rules apply for any large gathering that involves food.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/10-gluten-free-holiday-tips/
Q: Let`s be a source of hope for those who are new to this. Please share your stories of success and support from others while dining together for the holidays.
BE A SOURCE OF HOPE TODAY
Some of you may have heard that Papa Chops in Grand Rapids experienced a break-in over the weekend. Their windows were smashed and their registers were damaged.
They`re going to be closed down for a few days to get things repaired and order new registers. The digital registers most places use today are not cheap.
We are bombarded by difficult news every day. Some days the world can feel like it`s just too much. That the world seems hopeless. What on earth can we do to make a difference?
Well, today you can make a difference by donating to this Go Fund Me for Papa Chops. The goal is $5,000. They`re already half way there.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-papa-chops-team
Most of us can`t donate thousands. But thousands of us may be able to donate a few dollars. And that little bit, when added together, makes a world of difference for this business AND their employees who are missing wages due to lack of work.
If you`re unfamiliar with Papa Chops, they are a 100% gluten free restaurant in Grand Rapids, MI. You can read my interview with the owner in the link below.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/papa-chops-eatery-grand-rapids-mi/
@papachopseatery @grandrapidsmi @experiencegrandrapids @noglutengabby
WELL THAT TRACKS
It`s National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day. And between caring for my mom, my mother in law, and trying to be a positive force in the world, my energy level is at zero right now.
Thankfully I always have @canyonglutenfree bread in my freezer at all times. So PB & J with a side of cottage cheese was my lunch today.
This is your reminder that "fed is best," and if all you handle doing today is making yourself a PB&J, that`s ok.
Q: What are we all doing to keep yourself fed and hydrated today?
(NOT SPONSORED)
TWO THINGS I NEED YOU TO KNOW
1) I am not a baker. I get emails with order requests ALL the time because people click on one of my baker reviews. And they don`t read the statement, in bold, at the top of the page, that this is a review and the business contact information is at the bottom of the page.
And I do try to respond to those emails, trying to help them find a local baker. (Although people rarely email me back.)
2) A word about deadlines. Some of you are expecting miracles. You`re emailing the week of trying to get a grand birthday cake. Friends, these small businesses don`t have the staff or the production capacity of a place like Meijer or Kroger.
Plus, some of these smaller bakers are still working regular 9-5 jobs in addition to their side baking business. We need to have realistic expectations for the time people have.
3) Easter is 19 days away. Now is the time to plan ahead for holiday gatherings. Pay attention to your local baker`s social media posts in the coming days. They`ll be announcing what they`ll be offering and how to order.
Linked below is my master list of gluten free bakers in Michigan.
It is organized by region. Each business name is linked to the interview I have done with them. And as I said above, their contact information (address, social media, email) is at the BOTTOM of their respective interview.
And a last reminder - Be respectful and kind to those who serve you. Some of them may not have their Easter offerings figured out yet. Be patient.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/michigan-gluten-free-bakeries/
Do You Subscribe to My Newsletter?
This week`s post focuses on all things Easter.
That includes
- 10 Tips on How To Handle Holidays When you Eat Gluten Free
- Gluten Free Easter Candy LIst
- List of Gluten Free Hams
- and LOTS of Gluten Free Easter Recipes
This week`s newsletter also includes info about GF events, plus Food recalls and gluten free research you may have missed.
Link to this week`s newsletter is in my Instagram stories. Or you can send me a DM and ask for the link.
Q: Are you a Substack user? As I know some people are shying away from Facebook and Instagram, I`m thinking about dropping important links as Notes on Substack. (Notes are Substack`s version of a Feed, where you can reply and interact with each other.
Link to subscribe to my newsletter-
https://miglutenfreegal.substack.com/about
She Loves Lemon
Today was a typical Sunday. We drive to Lansing and back to care for my MIL, who has the beginning stages of Alzheimers
We go to church, I make lunch, and we do a few chores while we`re there. It gives my BIL a break as he does most of the caregiving during the week.
This week I made Instant Pot Spaghetti, and served it with broccoli, grapes and @dauxhouse Lemon Chip Cookies
And when I mention Lemon, she talks about how her mom made the most amazing Lemon meringue pie. And how her mom`s pie crust melts in your mouth.
She tells a version of that story almost every week.
We know what this journey looks like. Grandma and great grandma both had Alzheimers.
But it`s still hard to watch the woman who literally took care of everyone else need someone to care for her now.
But after all she`s done for us, it`s a privilege to care for her.
And if I can make her happy with Lemon cookies, so be it.
Don`t Be a Jerk On Tuesday
Tuesday is April Fools. A day for jokes and pranks.
But PLEASE never intentionally give someone with Celiac Disease food that contains gluten, as some sort of a joke.
That goes for those with food allergies as well. Anaphylaxis, a severe food allergy reaction, could lead to death.
NEVER trick anyone into eating or drinking something that could be harmful to them.
A good prank is one that doesn`t harm people (physically or emotionally), destroy property, and does not break the law.
Read my blog post about what we wish people knew about living with Celiac Disease, for more memes and tips.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/celiac-disease-truths-we-wish-you-knew/
Have You Heard the News?
Middle Coast Brewing in Traverse City is now open for breakfast.
AND all of their waffles are made with gluten free batter!
For a bit of fun, all of their waffles are named after musicians. There`s the Jerry (Garcia), Petty, Jopin, Cobain, and even the Bowie. (Ask for the graham cracker crumbs to be left off the Bowie.)
Skillets are named after famous artists, like Dali. And entrees (called Standards) are named after famous chefs, like Flay and Ramsey.
They don`t have a separate toaster, but they`re working on it.
Breakfast/Brunch is served from 8 am-2 pm.
Read my blog post to learn more about this restaurant, including hours and location.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/middle-coast-brewing-traverse-city/
Gluten Free To-Go Breakfast
I was at an event yesterday, and had a conversation with someone else who also has to eat gluten free. I brought up that I feel that when you`re traveling, breakfast can be the most difficult meal. Continental breakfasts at a hotel rarely include gluten free options.
Luckily, many of the gluten free recipes and options in my "Quick Gluten Free Breakfast Options" can be premade and travel easily. I also include a list of store bought options that you could stick in a cooler and store in a hotel refrigerator.
Q: What do you do for breakfast when you`re traveling?
Comment BREAKFAST and I`ll DM you the link
https://miglutenfreegal.com/quick-gluten-free-breakfast-ideas/
A Fun Way to Make Cornbread
Have you ever made cornbread in your waffle maker? I make it this easy every so often, just for fun. It cooks quickly, and you don`t have to take time to heat up your oven first.
Go extra wild and add cut up bits of (cooked) hot dogs, and then you have all the taste of a corn dog, without deep frying!
Find my gluten free cornbread recipe in the link below.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/easy-gluten-free-cornbread/
Cookie Decorating Class - April 17
Brit Levin, owner of Britsbakedbites will be teaching a cooking decorating class in Royal Oak on April 17th. Class is from 7-9 pm, and costs $65.
Find out more info on her social media.
Learn more about this small MI business on my blog
https://miglutenfreegal.com/brits-baked-bites-royal-oak-mi/
@britsbakedbites
Do You Have Spring Break Plans?
Anyone going to Chicago in the next few weeks?
If so, these are some of the restaurants that I recommend you visit.
Some 100% GF options include
Chesa`s Bistro
Wheat`s End Cafe
Defloured GF Bakery
XO Marshmallow
Find more at this link, plus tips on parking!
Comment CHICAGO and I"ll DM you the link
https://miglutenfreegal.com/why-chicago-has-my-gluten-free-hear/
We`re Crazy for Shopping Here on a Sunday
If you`ve ever been to Horrocks on a weekend, you know it`s super busy. But we need to pick up dog food and a few other special gluten free items we can only buy at that store.
If you haven`t ever been to Horrocks, there`s nothing quite like it. It`s like a farmers market, but also has a wine and beer section (plus you can drink while you shop), plus a plant nursery and florist. Oh, and some dry good groceries. Plus the gelato shop.
Honestly, Horrocks is something you have to experience to understand it.
These images are from their Lansing location. There`s also a location in Battle Creek and in Kentwood.
Read more about this gem of a place in my blog post.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/horrocks-farm-market-michigan/
This is your reminder that that Department of Education is the primary watchdog for both the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) and Section 504, so enforcement of IEP and 504 Plan violations could be impacted if the Dept of Education is dismantled.
In addition, Texas V Becerra, a lawsuit trying to declare that Section 504 is unconstitutional, is still in the court system. An update will be given in April.
Learn more about Section 504 in my blog post.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/section-504-celiac-disease-edition/
NEW POST - Brinstar Arcade & Grill in Midland, MI
If you`re looking for a fun night out AND great gluten free food, you should visit Brinstar in downtown Midland, Michigan.
FOOD - First (and possibly most important) they maintain a dedicated fryer for their fresh cut French fries and chicken strips. Staff know to change gloves, use separate pans and utensils, and take keeping their gluten free customers safe very seriously.
Did I mention they have gluten free gravy for poutine?!
FUN- In addition to lots of video games and pinball machine, they also host weekly trivia nights. Some weeks they also offer bingo.
FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY - All summer long (and during Spring Break) they offer Kids Happy Hour- $5 meals from 11 am - 4 pm. That includes chicken tenders, fries and a beverage. All in a fun atmosphere.
Read more about this fun eatery in my blog post. You`ll find address, hours and contact information at the BOTTOM of the post.
Comment BRINSTAR and I`ll DM you the link. Or find it in my stories.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/brinstar-midland-gluten-free-options/
@brinstar_arcade.bar.grill @gogreatlakesbay @downtownmidlandmi
NEW GF BAKERY BLOG POST
My pictures don`t do justice to the beautiful and delicious baked goods made at Provisions Snack Club in St. Joseph, Michigan.
Owner Emily Anstadt calls her business a "microbakery. Whether it`s because the bakery is literally small (it`s about the same size as my living room & kitchen put together), or because everything is made in small batches, either way everything is done with HUGE amounts of love.
Only open on Saturdays, this business that`s been open for less than 3 months is already bringing lots of joy to the area, and unique flavor combinations.
Her pop unique pop tart come in flavors such as PB&J, Rhubarb ginger, raspberry clementine, and blueberry lemongrass. She offers sweet scones like blueberry cardamom and savory caramelized onion scones.
Each week is something different, so make sure to follow her on IG to see what she`ll have!
Comment PROVISIONS and I`ll DM you the link. Or find it in my stories.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/provisions-snack-club-gluten-free-bakery/
P.S. Make sure to follow @ProvisionsSnackClub on Instagram to see what delicious baked goods she`ll have each week.
@swmichigan
College Students Face Food Insecurity Too
Did you know that the University of Michigan has a food pantry for students?
They`re not alone. MSU has one, Central Michigan University (my alma mater) also has one. Same at Eastern, Western, and Northern MI universities.
I had an excellent conversation with a group of 4 individuals last night who want to help make the MAIZE & BLUE Cupboard more inclusive to those with dietary restrictions. This includes gluten free, food allergy, kosher and halal options.
We brainstormed ways to help them seek donations and communicate with the community.
Today is "Giving Blue Day" at U of M, and the Cupboard has their own donation page. As we know, gluten free and food allergy options are much more expensive than their wheat based counterparts. (183% more!)
Please consider donating to them today. Even if it`s only $5, our little bits pooled together can make a big difference. If 24 people donate, at any amount level in the next 6 hours, they receive an add`l $5,000.
Donation link in my stories and in @@maizeandbluecupboard bio
https://maizeraise.umich.edu/schools/UniversityofMichigan/giving-blueday-2025/pages/student-life/maize-blue-cupboard-fund
@uofmichigan @umstudentlife
We Have to Look Out for Each Other
It`s no secret to those of us with Celiac Disease that gluten free food costs more. Research shows it costs 183% more, in fact.
And 1 in 6 people with Celiac Disease face food insecurity.
So what can we do about it?
On a national level, we can give to some of the large gluten free non-profits like the National Celiac Association. They send gluten free products to small food pantries across the United States. They often help with food during a natural disaster.
Read more about it in my blog post.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/gluten-free-food-assistance-in-the-united-states/
But I think where we can do a lot of good is working with local pantries in our area. Reach out to them and ask if they offer gluten free and food allergy options.
Volunteer to help the set up a shelf / section for specialty items.
Network to collect gluten free donations from those in our area.
I recently visited S.A.M.S. Pantry in Midland, where they`re doing exactly that. They have a small GF section with pasta, flour, and other items. And it all started because someone saw a need, and decided to do something about it. And then explained their mission to others, who also got on board.
That`s the initiative I`m working on here in Michigan. To create a network of pantries across the state who have a heart for meeting people at their point of need. And to connect them with local volunteers and people who are willing to donate a box of gluten free pasta or cereal or other gluten free groceries once a month to help.
If you live in Michigan and would be interested in helping stock gf items at your local pantry, leave me a note in the comments. I`ll reach out to you and ask for your contact info, and add you to my list. And we`ll go from there.
I know this is a long post. Thanks for reading and thanks for caring.
<3, Margaret Clegg
March is Michigan Agriculture Month.
According to the Michigan Agriculture website, Michigan is the "second most agriculturally diverse state in the nation."
For example, did you know Michigan is 1st in the nation in growing tart cherries, asparagus, black beans and winter squash? Our Michigan farmers are so important not only to our own communities, but the whole country.
Their success dramatically impacts the whole Michigan economy.
So let`s support them & celebrate them by buying local when we can, and using some of our biggest agricultural exports in some amazing gluten free dishes.
Comment PRODUCE and I`ll DM you the link.
https://miglutenfreegal.com/michigan-agriculture-in-gluten-free-recipes/
@mifarmersmarkets @michdeptofag
#NationalAgDay