We have a fabulous little Ice Cream/Diner in Wilmette called Homer’s. I read in yesterday’s paper that Al Capone was a regular there and it was recently voted one of the Top 10 Ice Cream Parlors in the United States. I concur; their ice cream is rich, decadent and simply fabulous. Homer’s is a regular hangout for post season soccer, baseball and basketball celebrations. My son John’s basketball team recently had their celebratory get together. The kids pulled up a few tables, dined on hot dogs and fries and of course had their share of ice cold milkshakes and homemade creamy ice cream.
Obviously John missed out on that last part due to his milk allergy. As usual I brought along a special Food Allergy Mama chocolate chip cookie for him to have during their desserts. But I couldn’t help but wonder if he felt left out. When I asked later, he said he was. No matter how many times we have gone to birthday parties, or these post sports season parties, it doesn’t get any easier. I feel awful for John that he always has to miss out on these simple little joys of childhood.
Homer’s ice cream excellence inspired me to make a dairy free chocolate shake that rivals theirs, or any other great ice cream parlor. I wanted John to know what a REAL chocolate shake tastes like. This Dairy Free Chocolate Shake is simply amazing and takes just a couple of minutes to whip up in your blender or milkshake maker. I often make these shakes when my kids are home sick, and need a special “pick me up”. I especially love to make them on Friday Pizza Nights. Give your blender a whir and make these shakes for your own family. I know they’ll love them.
DAIRY FREE CHOCOLATE SHAKE
Yield: 2 servings
11/3 cups soy or rice milk
1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate syrup
4–5 generous scoops vanilla soy ice cream
Combine the soy milk and chocolate syrup in a blender, and pulse for a few seconds. Add the soy ice cream and purée on low speed about 1 minute, or until the mixture is smooth and blended together. Serve in tall glasses.
Yes, they do feel left out. I have noticed since my son started preschool, being different bothers him more and more. He does not really complain about it, but it is a bit painful for him, I can tell. He does speak up more about it now, and I am trying really hard to help him enjoy the same treats.
The chocolate shake looks fabulous–your son must have loved it! Good job, Mama!
I noticed the shift in kindergarten. My son recognized his allergies more and I could tell he felt different everytime we had to jump through hoops for snacks, treats, etc. It’s funny he also hardly complains about anything; more of a “silent sufferer” while my other children have NO problem letting you know their issues!
One of the hardest parts of having a nut allergy for my daughter is that she can’t partake of ice cream treats at an ice cream parlor due to cross-contact concerns. You don’t know how much I wish there were an allergy-safe ice cream place for her! And it must really be hard when you combine that with dairy allergies. Food allergies are so difficult as kids develop because food is so entwined with social events.
It is hard for my daughter to be different from her friends and sometimes it gets to her, but I’ve also noticed that it’s made her more compassionate towards others and she’s definitely become a champion of the “underdog” in any school or life situation.
As she’s gotten older, it’s been easier for her to accept her challenges. I hope that continues!
I came across your blog last week and am just now able to sit down and read it. Thank you SO much for posting these recipes! I can’t wait to try this muffin one tomorrow. My 4yr old son is allergic to eggs, peanuts, tree nuts and since last month we found out dairy too. He is much like your son, he NEVER complains about what he’s missing out on when his 7yr old brother is eating something different. He has just accepted that he can’t eat certain foods. Now if it was my 7yr old, look out! He would not be handling it quite so well. It does break my heart though when he asks what peanut butter tastes like or other nuts.