Quote #22
"To keep the body in good health is a duty, otherwise we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear. --Buddha"
January 8, 2018            Thirtieth Edition
Greetings!

Nutrition is something that is easy to ignore or push off as unimportant, but for our children that have suffered through trauma, their bodies have suffered as much as their hearts and brains and they need proper nutrition to help heal.

Nutrition is also a way of nurturing - loving parents provide good, healthy food for their children because they care .

In our busy, chaotic lives of living with trauma survivors I know it can be hard to think ahead and plan healthy meals and snacks. This newsletter and the one next month will be packed full of quick, easy, and nutritious idea and meals for you to try out.

Healing your child's body through proper nutrition can reduce rages and outbursts, improve concentration, and help their brain to function better.

Enjoy!

With love,
Breakfast Brain Power
It's important for kids to have breakfast every day, but  what they eat in the morning is crucial too. Choosing breakfast foods that are rich in whole grains,  fiber, and protein while low in added sugar may boost kids' attention span, concentration, and memory — which they need to learn in school.
Kids who eat breakfast are more likely to get fiber, calcium, and other important nutrients. They also tend to keep their weight under control, have lower blood cholesterol levels and fewer absences from school, and make fewer trips to the school nurse with stomach complaints related to hunger. Read more...
From www.kidshealth.org

Thanks to the dramatic amount of growth and development they are experiencing, children need a generous allowance of vitamins and minerals. They are critical for their healthy growth, activity, learning, and behavior. Not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals can lead to serious health problems. Read more...


Making granola takes an investment of time, but it’s a very versatile food for breakfast, snacks and dessert. When making granola I usually double or triple the recipe and freeze leftovers.  Read more...
Homemade Instant Oatmeal Packets

  • 10 cups of quick oats 
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1-2 cups brown sugar (depending on how sweet you like your oatmeal)
  • 1 cup non-dairy creamer
  • snack-sized Ziploc bags
  • Extras such as nuts, dried fruit, coconut, spices, etc.

Directions: Put 7 cups of the oats into a large bowl. Blend the remaining 3 cups of oats in a blender until powdery, then add to the 7 cups of oats. Add salt, brown sugar, and creamer to the oats. Stir until well mixed.

Measure 1/2 - 1 cup of the oatmeal mixture into each snack-sized plastic bag. Add extras to each bag to suit your fancy.

Makes approximately 12 - 24 servings.

To prepare: E mpty 1 bag of oatmeal into a bowl or mug and add 3/4 or 1 1/2 cups of water (depending on packet size). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. (Microwaves vary, so add more time if necessary.) You can also pour boiling water over the oatmeal and forgo the microwave process.
Easy Breakfast Sandwiches

  • 5-6 hard boiled eggs, chopped into 1/2" pieces
  • cooked and crumbled bacon OR cubed breakfast sausage, optional
  • 1 1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese
  • 1-2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard OR Dijon
  • Salt, pepper, and chili powder to taste
  • 5-6 English muffins

Combine all ingredients (except the English muffins) in a bowl and mix well. If the mixture looks too thick add a little extra mayo. *The mixture stays good in the fridge for several days in an airtight container.

Open the English muffins and spread the mixture evenly on each piece, about 1/2" thick. You can either bake them right away or freeze them for a busy morning.

Freezing: Put the topped English muffins on a baking sheet and put them in the freezer for 2-3 hours until frozen solid. Transfer them to Ziploc bags and store in the freezer.

Baking: Fresh: Place topped English muffins on a baking sheet and place under the broiler until the tops are light brown and bubbly. If the mixture has been in the fridge place the rack in the middle of the oven to broil so the filling has time to heat up. Frozen: Preheat the oven to 400*. Place frozen muffins on a baking sheet and place bake on the middle rack until they are warm through and the tops are light brown and bubbly. You may need to broil them for the last few minutes.
"For I know the plans I have for you", declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you HOPE and a FUTURE."  Jeremiah 29:11