All Natural Energy Bites

By Cassie McCully

As you may have noticed, things have been rather quiet around here.  We are working on a blog transition and have quite a few loose ends to complete.  Until we get settled, I'm going to leave you with an irresistible recipe.  It's a perfect snack for all of you last minute shoppers, those of you heading to the mountain this winter, and those who are going to motivate the rest of us during the holiday with their unwavering commitment to the gym.

All Natural Energy Bites

Adapted from fooddoodles.com

Makes approximately  16 walnut-sized bites

1/2 C. nut butter ( almond butter, peanut butter or any kind of nut butter--I buy Adam's Natural Creamy)

1/3 C. honey

1 C. old fashioned rolled oats

1 C. shredded unsweetened coconut (you can substitute here with any dry ingredients, including nuts and seeds.  I used 3/4 C. wheat germ and a small handful of ground flax seed).

1-2 tsp. vanilla

1-2 tsp. spices (optional-I didn't add any)

pinch of sea salt

1/2 C. of other addins (nuts, seeds, dried fruit, dark chocolate chips etc.  I added chocolate chips).

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the nut butter, honey, vanilla and salt if desired. 

2.  Once combined add the remaining ingredients.  Mix well.

3.  Place in the fridge for 15 or so minutes.

4. Remove from the fridge and begin to roll the dough into walnut (or smaller) size bites.

5.  Place in an airtight container in the fridge or in the freezer for a quick and delicious snack!

Enjoy!

Cassie

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Protect Your Child From Swallowing Lithium Batteries & Emmett's Fight

In 2010, more than 3400 button batteries were swallowed.

There have been 15 battery-related deaths.

11 have died within the last 6 years.

Most of the battery-related deaths have been related to the batteries found in remote controls.

You've seen the tiny batteries in small remotes, watches, flashlights, car keys, and even in toys.  Most likely, you haven't thought about your child getting a hold of them, or worse, how dangerous they can be.

Lithium batteries can cause permanent damage and be fatal to your child.

Meet Emmett. 

"Shortly after celebrating my son's first birthday, Emmett accidentally ingested a coin size button battery which was housed in our family remote control. The damage that was tragically created inside Emmett's body, has been a horrific and painful nightmare. It has been a battle to save his life ever since."
-Emmett's Fight: Battery Button Ingestion Awareness



Spread the news. 
There are many who are unaware of this danger within the home.
More informational links can be found on the blog, Emmett's Fight.

You can spread the awareness of the dangers of children and lithium batteries
by liking Emmett's Fight on Facebook,
following the blog, Emmett's Fight,
and by checking out the current fundraising event for Emmett's fight.

Google image

Photo of Emmett courtesy of Emmett's Fight Facebook page

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Settle Into Fall With These 5 Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Dip

By Cassie McCully
I don't know about you, but my love affair with pumpkin treats lasts long after the pumpkin patch closes and the jack-o-lanterns get tossed.  Whether you buy canned pumpkin from the store or you were on top of your game and canned your own pumpkin this year, incorporating pumpkin into recipes is festive and healthy, too!

Here's a few healthy ideas that will make eating pumpkin a pleasure...

Pumpkin Bread in a Bowl

Pumpkin-Leek Soup

Pumpkin Ravioli

Pumpkin Smoothie

Each of these is making me more and more hungry for lunch.  You, too?

Do you have any go-to pumpkin recipes that you want to share?
Please do in the comments! 

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