Weekend Wisdom: Whether you want to let go of stuff and clutter, a relationship, a job, an old thought or belief, give yourself permission to know when it’s time. Tiny pumpkins. How are you doing out there?...
The post Weekend Favorites: 18 healthy habits, tiny pumpkins and the 12-12-12 declutter rule appeared first on Be More with Less.
What are you up to this weekend? My mom is visiting us, and tonight we’re going to watch my favorite movie (so good and intense!). Also, Toby’s hosting his 14th birthday party tomorrow, even though he was just born.… Read more
The post Have a Relaxing Weekend. appeared first on Cup of Jo.
Ten-year-old Anton and 13-year-old Toby have made us laugh since they were belly-forward toddlers. And the most random stuff still pops out of their mouths.… Read more
The post Toby and Anton in Conversation appeared first on Cup of Jo.
Per the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office: At approximately 8:35 a.m. today, the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) and the Frederick County (MD) Fire & Rescue (DFRS) responded to a single…
The post Montgomery County Resident Killed in Collision Sunday Morning in Frederick County appeared first on The MoCo Show.
The Prince George’s County Police Department’s Homicide Unit identified and charged a man in connection with a fatal shooting in February. The suspect is 25-year-old Luis Marquez of Silver Spring. He’s charged with murdering…
The post Montgomery County Man Charged With Fatal Shooting That Occurred in February appeared first on The MoCo Show.
Per Montgomery County: Today the Montgomery County Council enacted legislation to establish an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Commission. The legislation is supported by the full Council, the Executive Branch, as well…
The post The Montgomery County Council Enacts Bill 10-23 to Establish an Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Commission appeared first on The MoCo Show.
Montgomery County Police issued a press release today announcing that a traffic stop in Germantown on March 8 led to the discovery of 20 suspected Fentanyl pills, approximately 21 grams…
The post MCPD: Traffic Stop in Germantown Leads to Seizure of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine appeared first on The MoCo Show.
Metro is boosting mid-week service for customers who use the Blue, Orange and Blue Plus lines (info on Red line below) during the morning and evening rush hour periods. As…
The post Metrorail to run more rush hour trains during busiest days of the week starting Feb.7 appeared first on The MoCo Show.
In this post, I discuss why many popular chain pizza restaurants offer gluten-free pizza that they don’t recommend for people with celiac disease and gluten intolerance. I share why this is a dangerous practice and how you can protect yourself from getting sucked into confusing marketing messages from Domino’s, Little Caesars, Papa John’s, Papa Murphy’s, […]
The post Pizza Restaurants that Don’t Recommend their Gluten-Free Pizza for People with Celiac Disease appeared first on Good For You Gluten Free.
It’s official, Derek wins for best birthday surprise of all time. After months of holding onto the secret (and not giving much away with hints!), he surprised me with a Keys to the Kingdom Tour at Magic Kingdom yesterday.
It was the perfect birthday gift. Seriously, my husband knows me so well.
I’ve always been a huge Disney fanatic, but after seeing Saving Mr. Banks last December I got really into researching the history of Walt Disney World. When he asked what I wanted for Christmas, I told him I wanted a really good book that goes in depth about Walt Disney World’s history. While trying to find a book online, he stumbled upon the behind-the-scenes tours available at Walt Disney World. These tours book up months in advanced, so he immediately booked one for my birthday weekend and told me not to plan anything that day.
So for two months Derek tortured me by not letting me know anything about this big surprise he had planned. I HATE surprises so this part was really hard for me. But I was good; I didn’t snoop, I didn’t pry (too much), and I even stopped myself from asking friends a million questions (I knew they knew). Derek wanted to surprise me and I wanted to make sure that happened.
Derek did good with not giving me much to go on. I knew that we had a bit of drive to get there (he wouldn’t tell me which direction we were heading), he didn’t tell me what to wear (besides needing to wear real shoes), and I knew we had to wake up early (though when I asked what time I should set my alarm for, he said he would take care of it). At one point I did ask if we were going to Disney, but he said “that would be too easy.” Then his mom gave me a Disney gift card for my birthday and he made a big stink that she just got it because she knew I liked Disney. I didn’t question it. Made sense to me – a Disney gift card really is an awesome gift.
Even though I knew we had to get up early, I was still shocked when Derek’s alarm went off at 5:30. What? Man, that really is early. I was thinking “early” meant 7. Then I discovered we had a 2-2.5 hour drive and was HAD to be there before 9. So I got dressed in yoga pants (he said they were okay), a comfy top, and my Brooks Transcend shoes (which are AWESOME if you’re going to be on your feet all day). I also packed an extra bag with a few other clothes and shoe options “just in case” my wardrobe choice was wrong. Derek also made sure I had a jacket since the forecast called for rain and cold.
Once in the car, I fell right asleep (Derek encouraged it). When I woke up we were driving under the famous “Welcome to Walt Disney World” arch. I knew it! Then Derek pulled out my Magic Band, which he must have grabbed on the way out the door because it was sitting firmly on the table next to the door when I last saw it.
Of course, Derek still wouldn’t share anymore details about what was happening. We parked in Magic Kingdom and he admitted to overestimating how long it would take us to get to Disney. We were an hour and a half early! The good news is, we had no problem parking at the ticket and transportation center – we were the second row back.
Since we were early we headed to the Polynesian for a quick breakfast. I ordered a Mickey waffle because, well, it was my birthday after all.
During breakfast I kept quizzing Derek about what we were up to, but he would just ignore my questions. I almost immediately asked if we were going on a behind-the-scenes tour, but he acted surprised by the idea, as if he didn’t know they existed.
We hopped on the monorail and headed to Magic Kingdom. We entered the park around 8:15, but it wasn’t open yet. They were corralling everyone at the entrance for the official opening. I’ve never seen the opening ceremony before and was honestly excited about the possibility of seeing it. Maybe that was the surprise?
I knew someone else was coming because Derek kept checking his phone and taking secret phone calls. I asked him if we should be looking for someone and he said no. Then he left to use the restroom and he insisted I wait by myself at the entrance. A couple of minutes later my mom called asking where I was.
“I’m a Disney World!”
“Us too! Where are you standing?”
“I’m by the newsstand”
“So are we.”
It took a couple minutes of back and forth, but I found my parents on the other side of the rope, where all of the “reservation” folks were. They had on “guest” badges with 9:00am tour information on them. I knew it! I knew it! We were going on a behind-the-scenes tour! I was beyond excited!!
The Keys to the Kingdom Tour (or really any of the behind-the-scenes tours Walt Disney World offers) is something I’ve always wanted to do, but couldn’t justify the extra expense. Though, now that I’ve done one, I’m a little addicted to them and could totally justify the expense. As soon as I got back in the car I started researching other tours Walt Disney World offers and had to stop myself from reserving a spot on all of them. Check them out here and drool with me. #DisneyNerdsUnite
Sorry, tangent.
The tour started promptly at 9:00am. Out tour guide, James, was awesome. He’s been a Disney cast member for over 11 years and has been to every Disney park around the world. He’s also a tour guide for Adventures by Disney during the summer. He was so knowledgeable about all things Disney, I could have easily sat and talked to him for hours.
The Keys to the Kingdom tour is a 5 hour walking tour of Magic Kingdom (hence the need for comfortable shoes). James wore a microphone and we were given headsets so we could listen to James without having to strain our ears. Yes, we totally had the tour/tourist vibe with the headsets, but never underestimate the power of the headset – it made hanging on to James every word so much more enjoyable. Though, even with the headset, I was still in the front row for everything.
The tour covered the “onstage” portion of Magic Kingdom (the part of the park visitors see) and some of the “backstage.” In true show business fashion, when cast members are “onstage” they are 100% in character so there are separate “onstage” questions and answers while they’re in character and separate “backstage” questions and answers when they can relax a bit. Ask a cast member what the line is that goes from Cinderella’s Castle to Tomorrowland is and see what they say. 
The tour’s name “Keys to the Kingdom” is named for the four keys Disney uses as standards in of their parks:
Throughout the tour, we reviewed all four keys and saw examples of how they are used in modern day. I really wish I had taken notes on everything because there was so much information to soak in. We reviewed Disney’s history, tricks to Disney’s magic, and a little bit about the future. I won’t even begin to cover everything here, but give more of a gist of the tour.
We started on Main Street, where Magic Kingdom opens like a movie. The train stations acts like a curtain for Cinderella’s castle, which visitors can only see once they’ve gone through the tunnel and fully immersed themselves in the magic that is Magic Kingdom. The names on the top of the buildings read like opening credits, listing names of individuals who played important roles in making Walt Disney World possible. There was even a window dedicated to all of the fake company names that Walt used when buying up all the land to make Walt Disney World possible.
From there we headed to Adventureland, where James pointed out how Magic Kingdom uses subtle changes in music and scenery to transition between lands.
Did you know the Jungle Cruise was Walt Disney’s favorite ride at Disneyland? He originally wanted to use real animals in the attraction, but went with animatronics after he realized the expense and logistics of having real animals. Eventually Walt’s vision did come to fruition when the Animal Kingdom opened Kilimanjaro Safari in 1998.
James took over the role of skipper and shared a lot of interesting facts about the animatronics and history of the ride. I even learned there are heaters placed throughout the tropical plants for the rare occasion it drops below freezing in Orlando, they don’t want the plants to die. Even though all the boats are on tracks, the skipper still has control of how slow and fast the boat goes. They also attend an intense training session to learn to properly steer the boat to make it look realistic. And do you know why the water is murky brown? The clean water is purposely dyed dark to cover up the tracks the boats ride on.
We went backstage for a close-up view of the parade floats. Unfortunately we weren’t able to get a sneak peek of the new Fantasyland themed floats, but we did get one last look of the celebration floats before they’re demolished (they were already in the process of taking them apart). Fun fact: parade float driving is a full time job at Walt Disney World. It’s actually a refined skill that takes a bit of training and experience to master.
Lunch was provided at Columbia Harbour House (my favorite lunch place in Magic Kingdom). We had ordered off the menu during check-in and everything was set by the time we arrived to eat at 11:30. Each place setting had a name card that included a special “Keys to the Kingdom” pin.
I had my favorite – the hummus sandwich.
After lunch we rode the Haunted Mansion and reviewed some of the special effects that make the ride possible. Fun Fact: Did you know Haunted Mansion is in a different “land” in every Walt Disney theme park around the world? It’s also themed accordingly to the land it’s in at that park. i.e. the Haunted Mansion is part of “Liberty Square” at Magic Kingdom and resembles a haunted New England style mansion.
For our last portion of the tour (the “icing on the cake” really), we went underground to explore the Utilidors (aka secret tunnels under the park). We weren’t allowed to take photos, but I found a map online.
The Utilidor is actually the first level of the Magic Kingdom since they built the tunnels first, then built Magic Kingdom on top of the system. The system allows employees to travel from one portion of the park to the other without being seen. The utilidor is also a place for storage, character make-up, and employee cafeterias. Though Disneyland and Epcot have smaller utilidor systems, Magic Kingdom has the largest and most extensive of all Disney Parks. It’s also the most famous.
I’d never been down below before, so it was fun to see something new. Unfortunately we didn’t see any headless Mickeys or Princesses getting their make-up done. Apparently the “entertainment base,” where characters go for make-up, is strict on admittance and even James had never been before.
The tour ended way too quickly in my opinion. Seriously, 5 hours fly when you’re having fun! However, we were all exhausted. It’s crazy how much walking around can take it out of you.
We hit up Starbucks for caffeine, then rode a couple of rides before calling it a day.
We stopped at Landry’s for an early birthday dinner and I enjoyed a Peach Sangria and crab legs.
Gotta love a good birthday meal!
I spent the car ride home researching other behind-the-scenes tours. Derek doesn’t know what he started – I’m officially addicted. It’s like this whole new world of Walt Disney World just opened up for me. There are so many options! Kid friendly tours, adult only tours, ones that cover one park, ones that cover multiple parks, etc. I think I know what I’m asking for every birthday from now on!
Have you ever been surprised on your birthday? What was the surprise?
I’m a big fan of spaghetti squash. It’s cheap and easy like Miley Cyrus Robin Thicke at the VMAs, and you can make it as simple or complicated as you want… like Taylor Swift’s relationship status.
Too late for VMA jokes?
Anyway…
I’m rounding out week 1 of a doctor-prescribed elimination diet to identify potential food intolerances and/or heal “leaky gut.” Lovely. If you’ve ever been to a doctor of Chinese/holistic medicine (or attempted to emulate one Miss Gwyneth Paltrow), you’ve probably been prescribed something similar. No:
If you are thinking, “WHAT ARE YOU SUPPOSED TO EAT??”, rest assured I was, too. Before I get into that, though, here’s how I’m cheating (because obviously I’m cheating):
What I am eating:
The Verdict
I made it five full days adhering pretty strictly to the diet (excluding the cheats above for which I will not apologize) before eating pizza on Saturday. And you know what? I felt amazing for those five days. I felt so good it made me angry, 1) because I didn’t want this stupid elimination to work and 2) because I didn’t want to admit defeat after years of yelling about how good chicken-fried tofu is for me.
When I say I felt good, specifically I mean that I felt more energized, less bloated and better satiated than I have in the last year. I’ve had trouble recently getting really hungry and irritable before I eat and then getting really uncomfortably full and exhausted (and consequently irritable… again) afterwards–to the point where I want to go to bed. I don’t know if it was what I was eating (or not eating) for these five days or the fact that I was eating more frequently (every 2-3 hours), but it did wonders for stabilizing my blood sugar and avoiding those peaks and valleys.
The Bottom Line
I’m done with this charade. I learned a lot and I will tweak my diet accordingly, but two more weeks of chickpeas and raw macaroons doesn’t appeal (and sounds like a great way to trigger an eating disorder). The point of the Repairvite Diet (which is what this is, by the way) is to heal your leaky gut, which is a condition resulting in a hyperpermeable intestinal lining due to the consumption of inflammatory foods (ie. all of those listed on the NO list). The idea, if I understand correctly, is that after adhering to the diet for 2-3 weeks, you will have healed your gut and can begin incorporating the NO foods back into your diet.
Personally, I have a sneaking suspicion (based on a lot more than just the last week) that soy and dairy are no-go foods for me, but that doesn’t mean I’ll stop eating them altogether. I just might stop eating them every day.
I’m a big believer in taking care of yourself and in using food to do so, but part of that formula–for me personally–involves eating for more than just nutrients. Food is a catalyst for social engagement, a cultural celebration, a sensory thrill ride, and a walk down memory lane. You can’t quantify that on a food label.
If you’re outright allergic to something, by all means avoid it. And don’t feel deprived! There are substitutions for everything these days, and with a little creativity you’ll be able to recreate all your old favorites. One of my favorite challenges is to try to recreate foods to fit dietary restrictions. (Truly, if you’re recently diagnosed with a food allergy you can’t seem to work around, shoot me an email I’ll try to come up with something for you!) But if you’re just aiming for the “healthiest” diet on the block, I’d suggest redefining what it means to be wholly healthy–physically, mentally, socially, spiritually.
All that to say: Spaghetti squash is your secret weapon for surviving the Repairvite elimination diet.
Spaghetti Squash w/Coconut Oil-Fried Chickpeas & Creamy Kale
Spaghetti squash is great on its own with a little salt and pepper or topped with elaborate sauces. If you’re avoiding dairy, I find that a sauce of hummus thinned with vegetable stock creates a thick, creamy, satisfying substitute.
Ingredients
Instructions
Park View's Everlasting Life Cafe is in the process of changing its name to Woodland's Vegan Bistro to avoid confusion with Everlasting Life Restaurant & Lounge in Capitol Heights, Md.
The two restaurants were at one point operated by the same owner and both called Everlasting Life Health Complex. But they've operated independently since wife-husband team Mickiyah and Vernon Woodland bought the location at 2928 Georgia Ave. NW about five years ago. The Woodlands altered the name slightly, but customers were still confused. "We've gotten to the point where we want to really separate ourselves," Mickiyah Woodland says.
Woodland says some new menu items and a new look will accompany the new name. A Woodland's Vegan Bistro food truck is also on its way, possibly hitting the road as soon as the end of next week. Woodland says the truck will serve some of the cafe's more popular items like vegan chicken, kale salad, and other rotating specials.
(Correction: Due to a reporting error, this post originally misidentified the neighborhood where Woodland's Vegan Bistro is located. It is Park View, not Petworth.)
Photo courtesy Woodland's Vegan Bistro
You see, the thing about being gluten free is that sometimes you just want a damn sandwich.
So I made one. A classic BLT…on a potato.
I ditched the bread and stacked bacon, lettuce and tomato between two slices of roasted potato. Yes. Yes I did. You should too.
I went ahead and added avocado because when has that ever been a bad idea? And you know I don’t do mayo, so I whipped up a yogurt-based sauce that ended up being the perfect addition. Yogurt, Dijon and parsley. That’s it. No need for mayo. Trust me here.
I’m off to the beach, this beach, for a much needed vacation, but I felt like I needed to share these before I left. They’re that good. It couldn’t wait. So enjoy your weekend doing whatever you have planned but if I could make one suggestion, make yourself this damn sandwich.
Gluten Free BLTs (makes about 8)
Ingredients:
For the BLT and potatoes:
2 russet potatoes (with a round cross-section)
extra virgin olive oil
salt and pepper
1- 12 oz package of bacon
1 head lettuce ( I used Bibb lettuce)
2 vine-ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
For the yogurt sauce:
5.3 oz greek yogurt (1 individual sized yogurt. I used 0%)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
Notes: