We are so excited to have you join this new chapter here at Once A Month Mom!
This year-long series is for those who have had even the slightest desire to transition your family to whole foods. You may have started, you may have started and quit, you may be completely overwhelmed, not know where to start. This series is for you. This series is for me. This series is not for everyone. And this series is not meant to permanently transform OAMM into a whole foods community. It is to enlighten, to encourage and to walk alongside those that wish to make the journey themselves. Above all, no matter what, it is a still a community of freezer cooks so please be kind, tolerant and encouraging to those that aren’t choosing this journey.
For those of you that are choosing this journey, it is my (Tricia) personal belief that so many desire to transition to whole foods, they just don’t know where to start; and the thought of doing it all at once is just too mind-boggling. At least, that is my story. Therefore this is a piecing together of what we (Tricia & Kelly), with the assistance of some very knowledgeable folks, believe will lead to a successful transition to whole foods. Not just another fad.
We will be taking a year long journey, eliminating processed foods step by step, month by month. We will be providing as much education as we can, and encourage you to learn more on your own and share with us. We will get rid of and add to our palettes. We will discuss and debate. We will journal. We will struggle with budgets and ingredients and family favorites. We will celebrate!
Each month we will focus on a different aspect of the transition. From cleaning out your pantry, reading and interpreting labels, organic versus conventional, meats, fruit and vegetables, grains and much more.
The Year-Long Schedule
We will be posting weekly items that pertain to the monthly topic, generating discussions, hosting Facebook Fan Page Nights to talk about where we are successful and where we are struggling. In the end, our hope is that we arrive at the end of the year successfully, together, making a transition that will make us proud, our families healthier and our lives richer. I hope you will consider joining us. It will not be easy, but it will be together.
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Assess your Get Real journey over this past year or make plans to Get Real in 2013 with these week-by-week steps.
Written by debbie on December 30, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | No Comments »
In 2012 we decided to Get Real around here. Well, some of us did. Kelly and I started this series because she has a passion for teaching others about real foods and I have a desire to be better and better at transitioning our family to the same. And I felt that many of you [...]
Written by Tricia on December 23, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 4 Comments »
Nicole transitioned to a whole foods diet in 2011 to alleviate migraine headaches, but she continued making wholesome changes when she found out how much chemicals effected her life.
Written by debbie on December 16, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making [...]
Written by debbie on December 9, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making [...]
Written by debbie on December 2, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | No Comments »
Learn the pros and cons of using dry and canned beans. Also, learn all the tips and tricks for cooking dry beans.
Written by guest on November 25, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 6 Comments »
Beans are nutritional, frugal, and tasty, making them the perfect real food. Learn how to incorporate them into your family’s menu, even if you have nay sayers.
Written by guest on November 18, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
Next month we want our readers to share their Get Real stories. What were your best/worst moments? How can you encourage others? What have you learned?
Written by debbie on November 18, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | No Comments »
Did you know there are actually over 8,000 varieties of rice? Find out a little more about the 3 varieties of rice most commonly found in American grocery stores: white, brown, and wild rice.
Written by debbie on November 11, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 2 Comments »
Our Get Real topic for November is “Beans, Rice, and Grains.” Come learn how to get the most nutrition (and taste!) out of these pantry staples.
Written by debbie on November 4, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 8 Comments »
As you try to make healthy choices at home, are you confused about whether to use glass or plastic? Let’s learn the pros and cons of each and about recycling.
Written by debbie on October 28, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 9 Comments »
I knew first hand how the change in eating habits had benefited my health. And I knew then and there that there was still one area of toxicity that I was allowing into my body – chemicals from household cleaning products. . .
Written by guest on October 21, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 12 Comments »
Did you know the average American produces 7 pounds of trash PER DAY? Join us today as we talk about RECYCLING in our Get Real journey.
Written by debbie on October 14, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 11 Comments »
One of the most important things I happened upon a few years ago was this notion that food can heal our bodies and support us during different life circumstances. I had been having issues both with my reproductive system and with my fertility. At my wits end and with nothing to lose, I decided that changing my diet and going against a bit of conventional dietary wisdom was a chance I had to take.
Written by guest on October 12, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 7 Comments »
**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making [...]
Written by debbie on September 30, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
Backyard chickens can be fun and healthy, let’s discuss the pros and cons of keeping chickens.
Written by guest on September 23, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
Back in June, we started the conversation about eggs, and today we return.
Written by debbie on September 16, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 2 Comments »
When considering whole foods savings, start with a whole chicken and cut up the various parts for your meals instead of buying individual cuts. Here is a how-to.
Written by debbie on September 9, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 8 Comments »
This month is all about poultry. How to shop for poultry at your local farmer’s market or grocery store, and what it might be like to raise your own chickens. Today, let’s talk a little about what to look for as you purchase chicken to feed your family.
Written by Kelly on September 6, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
Just like canning, freezing gives me whole foods with very little change to freshness, nutritional value, color, texture, and taste.
Written by debbie on August 26, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
The differences between pressure canning and boiling hot water baths when canning fruits and vegetables.
Written by guest on August 19, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
First off, let go of anything you’ve heard about canning being scary or dangerous. Right now, we’re only talking about the home canning of high-acid things like jams, pickles, tomatoes and fruit in syrup.
Written by guest on August 12, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
This month is all about canning and freezing your tasty, nutritious whole foods. Why, you ask, are these the best methods of food preservation to use if you are a whole foodie? Come and see!
Written by debbie on August 5, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 15 Comments »
We’re giving you even more ways to save on your real food bill this week! Dig deeper!
Written by Kelly on July 29, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
So many of you have asked how to move to a whole foods lifestyle without breaking your budget. Blog partner Stephanie (Keeper of the Home) gives us practical steps to getting our grocery budget under control and setting goals for our future.
Written by guest on July 22, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 13 Comments »
I had a friend recently write on one of my pins for coconut oil, “It’s totally the new windex.” And in fact it is! Come see some of the highlights I use coconut oil for in my everyday life.
Written by Kelly on July 15, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 6 Comments »
During July, we’re covering both good fats and ways to save at the grocery. Join us!
Written by Kelly on July 3, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 2 Comments »
We’ve covered eggs, milk and cultured dairy so far this month. But what about those other staples in the dairy aisle? The ones that make everything just taste that much better, cheese and butter? I mean they are staples here at Once A Month Mom, with the exception of the Gluten Free Dairy Free menu. So what should you look for when picking these refrigerator staples?
Written by Kelly on June 24, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 2 Comments »
Wardeh Harmon from GNOWFLINS comes and educates us on making our own cultured dairy!
Written by Kelly on June 17, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 14 Comments »
Milk is another debated topic as to whether or not you should buy organic or not. Today we have a few facts to help you make the decision when at the store. And I have help from Wardeh Harmon of GNOWFLINS our blog partner this month helping to provide you with the raw facts of raw milk as well.
Written by Kelly on June 10, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 13 Comments »
Egg cartons can be confusing and consuming at the markets these days. Cage free, pasture raised, organic, what’s best? Here’s a post to help you navigate!
Written by Kelly on June 6, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
I know I’ve said it before but we have had some amazing months already with Get Real and the best is still to come! Summer has arrived and what better way to kick it off than to talk about beef and pork as we have this month. As I know you have all been grilling!
Written by Kelly on May 31, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
Have you considered purchasing local grass-fed beef but are uncertain of where to start? This post will help you determine your needs, find a source, locate a butcher, determine your cuts of meat and answer your other burning questions.
Written by Tricia on May 29, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 18 Comments »
Even though our focus is on beef and pork this month, we’re talking about meat-less substitutes today with our vegetarian writer Kristi!
Written by kristi on May 20, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | No Comments »
Today we welcome our blog partner this month Vanessa of Chefdruck Musing to give us the tips on beef and how to make the best choices!
Written by guest on May 13, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
Getting to the basics on Pork. Pork is now a special treat in our house, not only because pastured raised pork is hard to find at the store, but it is expensive unlike the pork chops I grew up on.
Written by Kelly on May 6, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
Beef and pork are hot topics for transitioning to a real foods lifestyle. Come and join us for our Get Real series this month as we help you to understand these staple proteins and how to choose what’s best for your family!
Written by Kelly on May 4, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
How much color is on your plate? Is it from fruits and vegetables? If not what’s your excuse? START TODAY!
Written by Kelly on April 29, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | No Comments »
Is it possible to create ZERO WASTE while cooking? YES! Come see how with a new eBook from An Apple A Day!
Written by Kelly on April 26, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 1 Comment »
Get Real folks know that shopping a farmer’s market can help the local economy, get fresh food to our families, and be a place where real food conversations happen. Yet a farmer’s market can be intimidating – there are unfamiliar fruits and vegetables, prices are not always clearly marked, and the crowds can be overwhelming. Prepare yourself with these simple tips to shop a farmer’s market like a pro.
Written by guest on April 22, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
Today we’re partnering up with Rentals.com to show you that even in the smallest space, leased or owned, you can embrace Spring!
Written by Kelly on April 18, 2012.
Posted in Get Real, Giveaways | 108 Comments »
**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making [...]
Written by Tricia on April 15, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 8 Comments »
Buy Local. You hear it everywhere these days even in credit card commercials. The importance of buying local is so important in our economy today and for the future generations. Why not start with buying local food? It’s simple, something you use often, keeps you up with seasonal produce and brings you closer to your community.
Written by Kelly on April 15, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 4 Comments »
Harvesting fresh vegetables from my backyard is one of my greatest pleasures. But it’s not the only reason I grow edibles. I garden to save money on my grocery bills, explore life cycles and nature with my daughter, have an excuse to spend time exercising outdoors, and put fresh, nutrient rich produce on the table. You can too!
Written by guest on April 8, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 13 Comments »
One of the hardest parts to making the transition to more real foods is navigating through the produce section of the grocery store. The organic options are growing and becoming more available. But how do you choose? Come see!
Written by Kelly on April 5, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 10 Comments »
Now that we’ve settled from the excitement of menu day here we can catch another wave of excitement with a new month in the Get Real Series! Let’s get into vegetables and fruit!
Written by Kelly on April 2, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
March Pasta Madness is over, let’s review what we did this month!
Written by Kelly on March 31, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
Gnocchis are the most freezer friendly pasta a Once A Month cook could ask for. And they are so fun to make with your family and friends.
Written by Kelly on March 25, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 4 Comments »
Come see how making traditional and non traditional raviolis can be fun and easy!
Written by Kelly on March 18, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
Homemade pasta is cheap and easy, we promise! Come see how with Kristen from Dine and Dish!
Written by Kelly on March 11, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 21 Comments »
We’re starting the month with some noodle basics and helping to answer the big question is whole wheat really better than regular pasta?
Written by Kelly on March 4, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 12 Comments »
Can you see Spring? It’s just around the corner and so is our next month with Get Real! Continuing on the theme of grains, we have dedicated March to pastas!
Written by Kelly on March 2, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 3 Comments »
We’re happy to have Annett Davis from Fit Moms Fit Kids Club over here again to recap her February Get Real challenge!
Written by Kelly on February 29, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 5 Comments »
Experts say that it takes up to six weeks to create a new habit. Here we are eight weeks in, how are you feeling with your new Get Real habit? Have you risen to new heights? (Bread pun is completely intentional.)
Written by Kelly on February 26, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 11 Comments »
Learn what whole grains are gluten free and use a simple trick to grind your own whole gluten free grain flours at home without a grain mill.
Written by angela on February 19, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 9 Comments »
What ARE the benefits of whole grains and why should you consider milling your own.
Written by Tricia on February 16, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 6 Comments »
Jo-Lynne from Musings of Housewife guest posts on tackling yeast breads and breakfast! Don’t miss out on this week’s challenge for Get Real!
Written by guest on February 12, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 26 Comments »
It is our first week of Bread Grains week in Get Real. Take a closer look this week at your “level” of baking ability and knowledge and challenge yourself to on new task. Take a look.
Written by Tricia on February 5, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 20 Comments »
A recap of January, an announcement of the January winner and a look ahead to February and the prize to be had then.
Written by Tricia on February 2, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 8 Comments »
**This post is part of the Get Real series. Please remember that this is meant as a learning community. We know that many of you are passionate about what you do and we want you to express that, just please do so in a way that will be an encouragement and aid to others making [...]
Written by Kelly on January 29, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 17 Comments »
Sugar is a sweet treat, but it comes in many forms! Come read about what you can do to tackle the sugars in your cupboards!
Written by Kelly on January 22, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 21 Comments »
This week we challenged you to take some time and watch the movie Food Inc. Have you had a chance yet? It’s not too late! Then come back and join in on our discussion, or come by our Facebook Fan Page Night THIS Sunday at 9:00 PM EST.
Written by Kelly on January 21, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 15 Comments »
One of the most inspiring moments in my transition to whole and real foods for my husband and I was watching the documentary Food Inc. The movie is this week’s challenge!
Written by Kelly on January 15, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 13 Comments »
A Get Real series guest post from Lisa of 100 Days of Real Food on the key factors when attacking your pantry and how to restock your pantry adequately.
Written by guest on January 11, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 15 Comments »
“Old habits die hard, and new habits are a pain to make.” Let’s throw that out the window this minute! Together in this series we can help make it through the tough times of letting go and sticking to our new found habits.
Written by Kelly on January 8, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 48 Comments »
Come learn more about a new chapter here at Once A Month Mom, our Get Real series! A year long journey towards a more whole foods lifestyle!
Written by Kelly on January 2, 2012.
Posted in Get Real | 98 Comments »
We have some exciting things coming your way in 2012 at Once A Month Mom, but most of all we’re happy to give you a sneak peek at our upcoming series.
Written by Kelly on December 12, 2011.
Posted in Announcements, Chick Chat, Get Real | 27 Comments »
