Two things I tend to accumulate most are clothing and books. Having so many of each doesn’t fit well with my personality—I prefer to be more minimalist. I would rather own a few that I really love than own a whole pile that is just okay. But since I love both fashion and books, I … Continue reading 3 Tips For Cleaning Out Clothes and Books

Sometimes, for me, having food restrictions isn’t a big deal. It is what it is. I wouldn’t “kill for a piece of bread.” I mostly cook at home, and mostly stick to the same types of foods. Generally I’m not tempted by foods outside my norm, like sweets, because I feel better when I stay … Continue reading Intestinal Fortitude

Fitness is an important part of my life, not only for my physical health, but also for mental clarity. But with a busy schedule, going to the gym may not always seem like a priority. Here is how I stay healthy, and fit everything in without sacrificing sleep. 1) Make it a priority. There is … Continue reading Six Ways to Fit Days

A gluten sensitivity or wheat allergy is just like a peanut allergy, but the social situations involving gluten seem to be much different than those involving peanuts. No one would ever say "just try one cashew" to someone with a severe nut allergy, so why do they say "just take one bite" to people with … Continue reading A Guide to Gluten-Free Etiquette

There is much debate around the subject of gluten. Researchers continue to publish studies with new findings, and people continue to adopt a gluten-free diet -- both those who have been tested for celiac disease and those who haven't. For those who have been tested and diagnosed, the seriousness of their disease is sometimes scoffed … Continue reading Gluten-Free Intolerance

When my doctor first suggested that I go on a gluten-free diet, I was overwhelmed. I didn't know what exactly gluten was, but it seemed to be in almost everything. Thoughts of running a vineyard in pasta-plentiful Italy turned to sour grapes. My shoe budget was reassigned to picking up the extra cost of gluten-free … Continue reading 3 Misconceptions About Being Gluten-Free I Had as a Beginner

As a pasta-loving Italian, eliminating gluten from my diet at the recommendation of my doctor seemed to leave me with extremely limited food options. However, compelled by my compounding fatigue and stomachaches, I waved the white (and red and green) flag, and embarked on my gluten-free adventure, eager for more energy and less pain. I … Continue reading 4 Ways Giving Up Gluten Improved My Life