About Gracelyn

Welcome! If you found my page, you're in the right place for simple and delicious recipes that are gluten free, dairy free, egg free, and refined sugar free. I create recipes with my eleven grandkids that are easy for them to make, look appealing and taste great. Many are spin-offs on traditional American food that they love to eat, like pizza, macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, baked potatoes, ice cream, and sweet desserts. But now they are not only plant-based with nutritious ingredients, they are healthier for both them and ME!

Why Did I Have to Change My Lifestyle?

I changed to this way of eating about five years ago and haven't looked back. I had an autoimmune disease with chronic pain and my family's history included heart problems, kidney issues, diabetes, dementia, hypothyroidism and more. Being a fairly healthy eater already and gluten free for twelve years prior, I usually ate a green salad, an apple and a yogurt for lunch. I also walked and exercised every day since my thirties, but still ended up with these painful medical issues.

However, after researching what would help these medical issues, I found out that my definition of healthy wasn't all that great. My green salad at lunch included lunchmeat, cheese and store-bought dressing, while my on-sale yogurt was full of sugar and preservatives. The gluten free products that I was previously using had preservatives and natural flavors in them.

Basically, I had to rework my whole diet, eat non-processed food and work in more fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, honey, maple syrup, ancient grains, and healthy oils. That meant eliminating or tweaking some of my favorite foods and reading labels at the grocery store. I told myself, it was only food, and I could make these changes. Maybe it would help my kids and grandkids down the road too, if I could figure out how to help myself.

What Happened After I Made Changes?

After only three weeks, my smell and taste were vibrant. I didn't know I was missing these two things until I could finally smell and taste like I never had in my entire life. Imagine never smelling a field of clover in full bloom. Now I could, and WOW, it was an amazing experience!

After a few months, I noticed that I no longer had sinus issues either. I haven't used any over-the counter medicine for sinus issues ever since. HURRAY! I was on to something good.

Over the last few years, my medical tests have shown drastic improvements too. I'm no longer on any type of medication and don't use over-the-counter ones either. My pain has been substantially reduced, my appearance has changed, and I'm happier than ever before. Basically, I understand now that I need to continue eating this way for the rest of my life to FEEL GOOD.

Tips for Changing to a Healthier Lifestyle

It's not that hard to make these changes if you're just starting out. The hardest part is attending family functions where you're the only one eating this way. I've learned to either eat before I go or bring something that I truly enjoy. I always bring a fruit tray to potlucks, as my grandkids devour these kinds of sweet treats, and I love fruit too.

I hope you enjoy making my recipes and enjoy the various whimsical characters that I've drawn to accompany my information. I get inspiration from the kids in my life when I create my characters with the wispy arms and legs. Sometimes adults become my muse as well, and I might even draw what I think they looked like as a five-year-old.

Good luck, and I'm glad you're interested in making healthier changes too. My recipes are good tasting, good looking and good-for-you food.

— Gracelyn