Where did the time go?

I used to be a regular blogger on another page and sometime around summer 2014 - I just stopped, I know why and something quite clearly had to give. I started studying for a Diploma last August and with the agreement of my Tutor we aimed to get it completed prior to Christmas, so in just under 4 months from starting the first piece of work to handing in my entire portfolio I did it! I heard 4 days before Christmas that the work had been internally verified and I would be getting my certificate by the end of this month. To add some perspective to this I studied all of the previous year and finished in July 2014, then spent my summer holidays training for a half marathon, studying and trying to show my children how to balance lots of work whilst having a good time with them too.
To some it's not a lot but I'm really proud of what I achieved in 2014, all the while coming to terms with my own health issues. I trained 329 miles last year - 80 more miles than the each of the previous two years and I'm going to stick with the training this year - it will be at a slower pace as my children have shown a real interest and I want us all to enjoy getting out and about on Shank's Pony!

I've just baked and gifted the second gluten free cake recipe I've ever found and liked (Glutafin Victoria Sandwich with a drop of almond essence as well as the required vanilla), light, moist and tasty - barely different to a gluten containing version. I'm not obsessed with matching gluten containing flavours and textures but most GF versions just aren't good enough in my view. My diet over the past few months has changed incrementally but looking back is now significantly different. I have all but cut out sliced bread of any kind because commercial varieties are claggy and dull tasting - I also don't make my own as it's such a waste of food when it doesn't last more than that day. I love Livwell's GF part baked rolls and have a selection of them on repeat prescription, I refresh them each time and that's enough for me.

I have really cut down all my GF 'alternatives' like pasta and pizza bases and added lots more veg options instead, so if I have a pasta dish it's at least half less pasta in the pot and I cook the veg at the same time. My body is changing still and my energy levels continue to improve - I haven't had skin issues for ages and I feel healthier too.

I've entertained a few times, most recently cooked a big roast meal and the guests had no idea the yorkies, gravy and apple crumble pudding they were eating were any different! Big success I think.

If you're looking for a deal - Lidl is this week offering Kelkin products at less than I've seen in other major UK supermarkets (I'm off tomorrow). Check it out here if interested http://www.lidl.co.uk/en/2486.htm believe it runs out on 14th.