Tonya Kappes – Page 11

09/05/2017

A Healthy ‘Taco Tuesday’ Recipe from Chef Robert Lewis

Who doesn’t love Taco Tuesdays?

All of sudden the day after Monday, Tuesday, doesn’t seem so bad. I think ‘tacos’ might be to blame for why Tuesdays have become a highpoint in our culinary week. This popular culinary trend, Taco Tuesdays, took off in Southern California and quickly spread to many big cities across the nation.Taco Tuesday is similar to Happy Hour in that restaurants vary in their participation, hours, and specials offered.

Taco Tuesdays can be part of a healthy diet plan, if done right.

I asked my friend, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ to share a few of his favorite healthy fish taco recipes on this blog. It’s all part of the preparations for our biggest podcast event of the year, Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

The wonderful Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ plays the character on ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’.

Since this year’s zany adventure takes place in New York City’s historic seashore, Coney Island we’re spotlighting seafood dishes.

Don’t let diabetes dim your DAZZLE! Get in the spirt and enjoy the first of several fish taco recipes,Garlic Rubbed Salmon Tacos, from The Happy Diabetic. It’s sure to win over your family and friends at your next party!

Garlic Rubbed Salmon Tacos by The Happy Diabetic

What’s in it?

1 tsp. fresh lime juice

2 tsp. chopped garlic

Fresh Cracked pepper

1 Tsp Splenda

1 lb. skinless salmon fillet

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

8 corn tortillas

1 very ripe avocado

Let’s put it together!

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix the garlic, Splenda and olive oil. Rub the salmon and let stand for 5 minutes.

Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for about 8 minutes, until they are softened and heated through.

Heat a large pan with oil or cook on the grill. Cook the salmon over medium heat until nicely browned and just cooked through, about 3 -5 minutes per side.

Gently break each piece of salmon in half. Spread the mashed avocado on the warm tortillas and top with the salmon, cabbage, and Drizzle each taco with fresh lime serve.

Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ has made it his mission to not only to be an ambassador of positivity for himself and his family (which includes 3 children and 6 grandchildren) but to also create amazing things in the kitchen for people of all walks of life to enjoy.

In a recent profile on the Everyday Diabetes website, Chef Robert Lewis admitted that he wasn’t going to let his diagnosis with Type 2 Diabetes get him down.

“When I started this personal journey as a type 2 in 1998, I determined right then and there that diabetes was not going to change my positive outlook on life! I have always looked for ways to bring joy to others,” says Chef Robert Lewis. “ As The Happy Diabetic, I work to bring hope as well as happy, healthy lifestyle strategies to people living with diabetes! Putting a positive spin on things will always help us get through the tough times together!”

Now The Happy Diabetic’s a man on a mission! When he’s not working as a director of training for 60 restaurants in the Midwest, he’s traveling around the country as a keynote speaker for Taking Control of Your Diabetes and/or hosting his own podcast, ‘The Happy Diabetic Kitchen Podcast’! Read more about Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ in Diabetes Health Monitor magazine.

What’s Trending: Thousands of Farmed Salmon Accidentally Released into Seas

Thousands of farmed Atlantic salmon were accidentally released into the waters between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands, and officials are asking people to catch as many as possible. Tribal fishers, concerned about native salmon populations, call the accident “a devastation.” READ MORE

Don’t Miss The Newest Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast entitled ‘Gypsies, Tramps and Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?

Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.

USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.

This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com

08/12/201708/12/2017

Divabetic Summertime Favorites & Diabetes Advice

‘Walking on Sunshine’ during the dog days of Summer for people living with diabetes may require a few special precautions for you to shine.

Extreme heat is a stress on the body, and any stress can release hormones that will raise blood sugar levels, says Deena Adimoolam, MD, assistant professor of medicine, endocrinology, diabetes, and bone disease at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City.

If you find it’s too hot and your blood sugar is fluctuating, stay inside where it’s cool. That may mean a trip to the spa, mall or the movie theater if your home isn’t air-conditioned.

“People with chronic diseases like diabetes as well as people taking certain medications, including heart disease medications and diuretics, which are often used to treat complications of diabetes, are at increased risk of experiencing difficulties in the heat, even though they may not be aware of it,” says Catherine Carver, M.S., A.N.P., C.D.E, Director of Educational Services at Joslin Clinic.

Come summer, you may be tempted to don flip-flops or sandals or even walk barefoot. But it’s important that you protect your feet when you have diabetes. “My suggestion is to find some really comfortable footwear that is breathable,”said Joanne Rinker, MS, RD, CDE, LDN, senior director for community health improvement for Population Health Improvement Partners in North Carolina and a spokesperson for the American Association of Diabetes Educators as reported in Everyday Health. READ MORE.

What goes better with sun-kissed skin than an impossibly gorgeous glow? Make the most of your summer beauty and get a lit-from-within air with the best bronzers, shimmery shadows, hair highlighters and last, but not least, the perfect lip gloss.

Here are some of our Summertime Favorites to help you ‘GLAM MORE FEAR LESS’ during the steamy summer days:

My good friend an fabulous broadcast journalist, Arthel Neville‘s new accessories line will speak to you and allow you to send a message about yourself to others. Arthel Neville Design™ – an accessories collection features her original quotes intended to encourage and inspire ‘girls’ of all stripes.

Did you know that Arthel was the first African American female in the national entertainment space? Before the ubiquitous celebrity interview, producing and hosting her own show on E! – Arthel interviewed Hollywood’s A-list and became the nation’s first high profile African American female entertainment reporter. BUY NOW

UV Atmospheric Light Meter: This UV meter detects both atmospheric UV-A and UV-B light (ranging from 400 nm to 280 nm) and displays the current atmospheric UV index.

Students then can relate this numerical index to our color changing beads or nail polish: how dark the color or how quick the change. Note: the meter is not sensitive to the rather narrow frequency of UV light emitted from artificial sources such as a UV flashlight or UV lamp. $35.18 BUY NOW

DIVABETIC SUMMERTIME TIP: Store your blood glucose meter, strips and insulin in a cool, dry place. Do not store insulin in extreme temperatures. Never store insulin in the freezer, in direct sunlight, in the car or the car’s glove compartment. GET ADVICE

Watermelon Shark Decorative Server: Add some jaw-dropping, focus-grabbing fun to your buffet table with this whimsical ceramic shark server. Crafted of Dolomite with the look of carved watermelon, it’s perfect for melon balls, other fruit and veggies. Hand wash. 8 3/4″L x 6 1/4W” x 7 3/4″H. $14.99 BUY NOW

DIVABETIC SUMMMERTIME TIP: Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, especially if you are working or exercising outdoors. People with diabetes and other chronic diseases like heart disease are more susceptible to overheating. Symptoms include: feeling dizzy or fainting; sweating excessively; muscle cramps; skin that is cold or clammy; headaches; rapid heartbeat and/or nausea. GET ADVICE

Did you know that the pineapple is recognized as a traditional expression of “welcome” throughout the South and in areas along the Eastern Seaboard?

Appearing on all sorts of décor – from door knockers to quilts and including the lapel of my (Mr. Divabetic’s) World Famous Fruit Suit – the fruit symbolizes those intangible assets we appreciate in a home: warmth, welcome, friendship and hospitality.Bigmouth Pineapple Pool Float $14.99 BUY NOW

DIVABETIC SUMMERTIME TIP: Know the signs of low blood sugar. If you’re in the heat and feel lightheaded or are having muscle aches or general fatigue, it’s time to come indoors and get out of the heat.

Does it hurt to check your blood sugars? Are your fingers sore? Well, then you might want to check out the Genteel® Lancing Device Painless which basically guarantees to draw blood without pain … but at a rather steep price: $129.00

The Genteel® Lancing Device uses it’s Butterfly Touch Technology® to get the perfect drop of test blood with reduced pain and discomfort. The lancet only reaches blood capillaries and avoids hitting pain nerves altogether. It will produce a painless sample from just about anywhere, the vacuum pump makes this possible. Inside of arm from armpit to the wrist or backs of hands, even the palm is not off limits. There’s no guarantee that moving around on the body is going to give consistent results so make sure to do some retesting on fingers to compare results. BUY NOW

DIVABETIC SUMMERTIME TIP: Keep hydrated. Dehydration, or the loss of body fluids, can happen on these very hot summer days whether you have diabetes or not. If you have diabetes, dehydration also can occur when blood glucose is not under control. GET ADVICE

Fashion Designers Dolce&Gabbana teamed up with Smeg to design a eye catching line of toasters, citrus juicers, coffee machines, kettles, blenders, stand mixers and slow juicers. All these products are decorated with reflective interpretations of Sicilian folklore. Lemons, prickly pears, and bright red cherries are just a selection of Sicilian decorations that are framed in triangular motifs known as crocchi, that decorate these small appliances. Together with crocchi, the appliances are covered in delicate floral motifs and images of the enthralling Mount Etna, surrounded by ornamental friezes, and decorative acanthus leaves. All these themes and decorative symbols are intrinsically tied to Sicily and the important aspects of the aesthetic of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana.

DIVABETIC SUMMERTIME TIP: Exercise early or late. The hottest and sunniest part of the day is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Schedule your outdoor exercise before or after these hours when it’s not so hot.

Busy USA Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes somehow manages to squeeze in time to co-star in the upcoming Mister Divabetic Mystery entitled Gypsies, Tramps & Peas in September between writing her own popular mysteries. Check out two of Tonya’s newest books: A Ghostly Secret: Book 7 in A Ghostly Southern Mystery Series ( Emma Lee learns real fast that someone doesn’t want her to snoop around the cold case. Can she help Betsy cross over and get Mr. Whiskers cross the Rainbow Bridge before someone helps Emma Lee check out from the living?) and Ax To Grind: Book Three in the Kenni Lowry Mystery Series (Southerners keep their secrets swept under the rug, but what happens when that rug goes up for sale?) On sale September 19, 2017

DIVABETIC SUMMERTIME TIP: Keeping your hair healthy and gorgeous all summer long, despite the heat and humidity, can be challenging. Beauty blogger Maria Barillaro shares her favorite product picks with us so you can have gorgeous hair no matter how high the mercury soars READ MORE

If you have diabetes and have any questions about coping with heat or other extreme weather conditions, consult with your medical team.

Join us for the broadcast of our newest Mister Divabetic Mister entitled “Gypsies, Tramps and Peas” on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 -7 PM, EST.

This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com

https://youtu.be/9ePIZugahFc

08/09/201708/09/2017

Do You Have A Pet Name for Your Diabetes or Insulin Pump?

Broadway Diva, singer, actress, Soara-Joye Ross, who is living with type 1 diabetes admits that she named her diabetes ‘Sasha’ and her new insulin pump ‘Black Panther’ … how about you?

Do you think giving a pet name to your diabetes and/or your device(s) could help you manage your diabetes?

Personally, I think giving your diabetes, your pump and/or your continuous glucose monitor a pet name is a great idea for helping you to cope with diabetes. A healthy sense of humor could certainly come in handy when you consider that the emotional dimensions of diabetes are often overlooked by healthcare professionals as well as patients.

“Laughter is the best medicine . . . unless you have type 1 diabetes, then insulin is probably better,” writes Dr. Beverly S. Adler, aka “Dr. Bev,”, who is a clinical psychologist and Certified Diabetes Educator in an article for Diabetes Connect.

“I named my diabetes “Sasha” because she’s like a person to me. She was like a two-year-old for the first several years. Now she acts like a teenager by always wanting to do her own thing and not what I always want her to do!,” says Soara-Joye on August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Soara-Joye has performed abroad and all over the country. Named, “A True Musical Theatre Diva!” by BroadwayBox.com, this native New Yorker has performed in NY from Broadway (Les Misérables & The Dance of the Vampires) & Carnegie Hall (Jerry Springer the Opera) to the Winspear Opera House in Dallas (The Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess) all the way to the Alter Oper in Frankfurt, Germany (Smokey Joe’s Cafe)! She has performed at highly acclaimed regional theaters, Off-Broadway, in Film, (Garden State)and just guest starred on HBO’s new comedy, Crashing, directed by Judd Apatow.

Our favorite Broadway DIVAbetic’s 10 year diaversary approaches in September and she recently started wearing an insulin pump that she named “Black Panther”. Soara-Joye says her insulin delivery device aka ‘the pump’ has been a godsend for her managing her ‘Sasha’ especially with such a rigorous performance schedule.

“With the insulin pump I can suspend my insulin delivery which is extremely helpful if I’m constantly on stage like I was when I was performing as Deloris Van Cartier ( in the musical, ‘Sister Act’),” she adds.

This Broadway DIVAbetic Has An Entourage Supporting Her with Her Diabetes Self-Care

Soara-Joye admits that on ‘day one’ of rehearsals for a show, she tells her stage manager and all involved on the creative team that she has type 1 diabetes. She also shares that her diabetes has a name: “Sasha” and that she’s pretty much another character in the show, that they need to know about.

One of her six dressers on ‘Sister Act’ was standing by in the wings with glucose tablets, insulin and juice boxes just in case Soara-Joye needed any of them. She also helped monitored Soara-Joye’s numbers on her continuous glucose monitor to watch out for trends in her blood sugar during the show. “My main dresser, Alison Clifton and the rest of my fabulous team of dressers were a godsend!,” says Soara-Joye.

Let Soara-Joye Ross Inspire You to Manage Your Diabetes like a Diva!

When you stop to consider that many people with chronic conditions such as diabetes often have to adjust their aspirations, lifestyle, and employment I feel Soara-Joye is truly a diva inspiration. Let Soara-Joye’s openness and creative coping skills as well as her ability to empower her co-workers to be part of her health entourage motivate you to not let diabetes dim your dazzle!

Soara-Joye appears in Judd Apatow’s HBO series ‘Crashing’ and will soon be starring as (Delores) LaVern Baker, the popular American Rhythm & Blues Singer from 50’s and 60’s, in the musical, ‘Rock and Roll Man’.

“Managing diabetes is a full time job, but with a little bit of humor we can take it all in stride,” writes Dr. Bev for Diabetic Connect. “Look for humor in a bad situation, and uncover the irony and absurdity of life. This will help improve your mood and the mood of those around you. Best of all, this priceless medicine is fun, free, and easy to use.”

Everything’s Coming Up Roses! We’re going behind the scenes on our upcoming Mr. Diabetic Mystery podcast. ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ (scheduled for September 12, 2017) with music from the Original Broadway cast of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Our annual diabetes mystery podcast hopes to encourage you to become a Diabetes Detective. Look for clues, search for patterns, investigate the reasons behind your blood sugar high’s and low’s and report to the authorities (your healthcare team) about medical information found on the internet.

On August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast we’re discussing tips for Summertime Diabetes Management, the Best in Swimsuit Coverups, Body Image Issues, Health Hazards of Professional Eating Contests, Safe Pedicures and Broadway’s Biggest Divas.

LISTEN: August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music from the musical, ‘Gypsy’ features guests Actress, Singer Soara-Joye Ross, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Maryann Nicolay BA, DTR, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, Founder & Executive Director of the We Are Diabetes organization Asha Brown, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes and Mama Rose Marie.

08/06/201708/06/2017

‘From Broadway to the Beach!’ on August’s Diabetes Late Nite

Everything’s Coming Up Roses! on August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast when we feature music from the original Broadway cast of ‘Gypsy’ scheduled for Tuesday, August 8, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

Gypsy is musical that loosely tells the story of burlesque stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, but the story focuses on her star struck, verging on maniacal, mother Rose Hovick who was bound and determined to make vaudeville stars out of her children

The list of dynamic divas who have played the infamous stage mother, Mama Rose, in Gypsy include Ethel Merman, Angela Lansbury, Tyne Daly, Bernadette Peters, Patti Lupone, Rosalind Russell and Bette Midler.

The way each of these amazing Broadway legend tackled the role of ‘Mama Rose’ is comparable to how people manage their diabetes because everyone’s self-care management is unique and different with subtle nuances based on one’s own life and lifestyle. And that’s perfectly acceptable!

“Each Rose blooms differently and produces unique petals, fragrances and thorns, just as Mama Rose has been given a wide-range of complex performances and distinct interpretations, “ wrote Mark Robinson, a theatre, television, and film historian, for Playbill.

Diabetes management is personal too. Let Ethel, Bernadette, Patti or Bette inspire you to not let diabetes dim your dazzle! To truly succeed you have to make it yours! Know what makes your blood sugar level rise and fall – and talk to your doctor about how you can manage these day-to-day factors in your life.

We’re also heading the beach on August’s Diabetes Late to discuss Summertime Diabetes Management, the Best in Swimsuit Cover ups, Body Image Issues, Health Hazards of Eating Contests like Nathan’s Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, Healthy Desserts and how a Broadway Diva manages her type 1 diabetes eight shows week.

The August heat is tough enough for the average person, but for the estimated 21 million Americans with diabetes, special precautions may be required. Joslin Clinic offer the following tips for people with diabetes during these steamy summer days:

Keep hydrated. Dehydration, or the loss of body fluids, can happen on these very hot summer days whether you have diabetes or not. If you have diabetes, dehydration also can occur when blood glucose is not under control. When blood glucose is elevated, this can lead to an increase in the body’s excretion of urine. To prevent dehydration drink plenty of caffeine-free fluids such as water, seltzer or sugar-free iced tea and lemonade. Limit your intake of alcohol.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, especially if you are working or exercising outdoors. People with diabetes and other chronic diseases like heart disease are more susceptible to overheating. Symptoms include: feeling dizzy or fainting; sweating excessively; muscle cramps; skin that is cold or clammy; headaches; rapid heartbeat and/or nausea. If you experience any of these symptoms, move to a cooler environment, drink fluids like water, juice or sports drinks (based on your healthcare provider’s instructions) and seek medical attention. MORE TIPS

BE AN INSTANT WINNER: Test your Diabetes IQ and send your answer to the question below to mrdivabetic@gmai.com. Correct answers will be entered into our random drawing to win August’s PRIZE GIVEAWAY. Prize package includes Dr. Greenfield’s Hand & Body Cream, Cabot Cheese, Nu Naturals and a Summertime Fashion accessory. Our INSTANT WINNER will be announced on-air during August’s Diabetes Late Nite this coming Tuesday, August 8, 6 PM, EST.

Plus, we’re going behind the scenes on our newest Mr. Diabetic Mystery podcast. ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ with music from the Original Broadway cast of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Will he sink or swim?

August’s Diabetes Late Nite guests include Best-Selling AuthorTonya Kappes, Broadway Star Soara-Joye Ross, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, We Are Diabetes organization founder, Asha Brown, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Nicolay BA, DTR and Mama Rose Marie. TUNE IN: August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast inspired by Gypsy schedule for Tuesday, August 8, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

05/08/201705/08/2017

Divabetic Bookshelf: ‘Caught Bread Handed’ by Ellie Alexander

‘Caught Bread Handed: A Bakeshop Mystery’ by author Ellie Alexander is what I like to call a ‘one day’ book because you’re able to read it in one day or more accurately a lazy afternoon. It’s quick and fun.

Welcome to Torte—a friendly, small-town family bake shop where the oven is heating up as high as the body count…

Jules Capshaw is still chewing over her husband Carlos’s return to Ashland, Oregon. Could there be too many cooks in the kitchen? Whatever is stirring between those two will have to wait. Despite the Oregon Shakespeare Festival being dark for the winter, the bakeshop is bustling, the dough is rolling, and there’s no rest for the weary…especially when murder is thrown into the mix. READ MORE

My only complaint is that the the nuisances of baking outweigh the mystery behind the murder in this story. Chapter after chapter, I kept wondering when the main character, Juliet ‘Jules’ Capshaw, was going to take off her apron and get down to the business of investigating. However, you will find yourself falling love with Ashland, Oregon and the crazy characters that inhabit it.

The author also does a great job of giving you a slice of ‘cake without the frosting’ when it comes to describing the daily grind of owning and operating a bakery/restaurant. The rhapsody of creating a new recipe is liberally sprinkled over the nonstop, never ending cycle of early mornings, financial worries and physical exhaustion. I don’t think there’s enough coffee for me to put on a chef’s hat! Now, that I’m eating ‘gluten free’ I appreciated her gluten free baking tip too.

The gay character, Lance hooked me. He’s smart, witty, sarcastic busybody; a bit like Paul Lynne. And right before you think he’s going to be a total stereotype of a ‘theater queen’ the author reveals another, truthful side to the character by hinting at his issues with intimacy.

I read this book for inspiration. Currently I’m working on rewrites for this year’s ‘Mister Divabetic Mystery: Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ as well as researching and outlining my next ‘Mister Divabetic Mystery: One Murder Tutu Many’ podcast script. The purpose of our annual diabetes mystery podcasts is to educate you about diabetes self-care in an entertaining way. I also want to encourage you to become a diabetes detective and investigate the reasons behind why you may be experiencing unexpected high’s and low’s with your healthcare team.

‘Mister Divabetic Mystery: Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ takes place at the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, New York. The happy healthcare host’s first foray into healthy catering gets off to a soggy start when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes! Tune in to Diabetes Late Nite for all the action and laughs sprinkled with diabetes information in September.

My ‘Mister Divabetic Mystery: One Murder Tutu Many’ is set in the word of ballet. My character, Mr. Divabetic’s gluten-free cheesecake gives his team of amateur sleuths goosebumps when it’s found covering the face of a dead body. I’ve been busy consulting with Author and diabetes advocate, Zippora Karz, Janis Roszler MSFT, RD, CDE, LD/N, Cookbook author, Holly Clegg, Dr. Beverly S. Adler PHd, CDE and Stacey ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’ Harris on the various themes and recipes related to the story.

Wondering what life’s like for a ballerina living with type 1 diabetes?

Check out the ‘The Sugarless Plum’ by Zippora Karz. For dancer Zippora Karz, a rising young star with the famed New York City Ballet, being diagnosed with diabetes could easily have ended all her dreams. She was just twenty-one when she was plucked from the corps de ballet to dance solo roles like the Sugarplum Fairy in The Nutcracker. It was near the end of a grueling season when she became exhausted, dizzy, and excessively thirsty. READ MORE

Four years ago I met USA Today Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes at BookCon in New York, NYC. Our chance meeting has lead me to researching, writing and producing a yearly diabetes mystery podcast with my Diabetes Late Nite cast for our Divabetic community. Tonya’s been a great support throughout my painful and joyful writing process.

One day soon I hope to turn one or more of my scripts featuring diabetes self-care tips and information and healthy recipes into a book (!) or not. In the meantime I’m going to keep on reading and writing!

By the way, my Mister Divabetic Mysteries (Pink Panther, Phantom of the Okra, Suspect Boulevard and Gypsies, Tramps & Peas) are available for free at blogtalkradio, i-Tunes and divabetic.org

Can’t wait until September? Check out May’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring the music of Della Reese on Tuesday, May 9, 2017, 6 PM, EST. It’s not an mystery podcast but it’s filled with great advice on how to overcome the sudden shock of being diagnosed with diabetes, and advice on navigating your local farmers market and the best ways to go gray.

In 2000, Della was officially diagnosed with diabetes after collapsing on the set of the hit TV show “Touched By An Angel”. Since then, she’s battled with her health to fight against wheelchair confinement. Her rep claims she’s still able to walk and refuses to be confined. At this point, let’s just hope she continues to fight like we know she can! Guests include Diabetes Diabetes Alert Dog Trainer and Author from Chilbrook Kennels, Debby Kay, Central Farm Markets Co-Founder, Debra Moser, Master Hairstylist Karline Ricketts, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Mama Rose Marie

04/15/2017

Author Tonya Kappes’ New ‘Scene of the Grind’ Mystery

I’m thrilled to announce that USA TODAY bestselling author, Tonya Kappes will be joining us again for this year’s Diabetes Mystery, “Gypsies, Tramps & Peas” which debuts in September.

I encourage you to check out Tonya’s just released a fabulous new mystery, ‘Scene of the Grind’ from her new ‘A Killer Coffee Mystery’ Series. It’s a fun read filled with quirky characters, colorful scenery and a funny storyline, just like our upcoming Diabetes Mystery podcast!

“Gypsies, Tramps & Peas” takes place at the colorful 35th Annual Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, New York. My character, Mr. Divabetic finds himself involved in another murder investigation when his former high school swim coach mysteriously disappears. On the way to cracking the case, while stumbling upon clues his team of amateur sleuths reveal helpful Summertime diabetes self-care management tips.

My chance meeting with Tonya at BookCon in New York City four years ago inspired me to write and produce our first annual Diabetes Mystery podcast. Four years later, thanks to her bubbly personality, never-ending encouragement and enthusiasm throughout the writing process, we’re still going strong. I will always be incredibly indebted to Tonya for believing in me both personally and professionally. Somehow she ‘magically’ manages to squeeze time into her busy writing and book tour schedule to hold my hand through countless script rewrites.

I don’t think I could have ever risen to this challenge without her help!

Our annual diabetes murder mystery podcast has brought me so much personal joy that it’s my absolute pleasure to promote Tonya’s latest book, “Scene of the Grind” from her new ‘A Killer Coffee Mystery’ Series.

The series takes place in the cozy southern fictional tourist town of Honey Springs, Kentucky.

Roxanne Bloom (her friends, though few call her Roxie) quit her job as a lawyer, divorced her cheating husband, and moved to the quaint town of Honey Springs, Kentucky where she’d spent many of her teenage summers visiting her eccentric and fun-loving Aunt Maxi.

Roxy follows her dream and opens The Bean Hive, Honey Springs first coffee house on the town’s newly revitalized boardwalk. that opens just in time for Honey Springs annual Honey Festival.

Roxy’s life couldn’t be better. Business was booming, she’s reconnected with special people from her past, including her first teenage love, and visits The Crooked Cat book store, which is still her favorite shop in Honey Springs.

One problem, Aunt Maxi and Alexis Roarke, owner of Crooked Cat, aren’t on the best of terms. Alexis leases the book store’s building from Aunt Maxi and the rent is going up.

Roxy takes Alexis a fresh cup of coffee from The Bean Hive and a tasty pastry as a peace offering between the two women, but discovers the beloved book store owner murdered and Aunt Maxi is the number one suspect.

Gossip in Honey Springs is as hot at the coffee served at the Bean Hive and Roxy has to uncover who is behind the murder not only to save her shop, her aunt, but her life.

LISTEN NOW: ‘Phantom of the Okra’ Diabetes Mystery podcast with Tonya Kappes, Mama Rose Marie, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Chef Robert Lewis, Asha Brown and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach. This podcast features music from the ‘Phantom of the Opera’ soundtrack courtesy of SONY Music.

03/30/2017

Diabetes Mystery Update on: Gypsies, Tramps & Peas

After a shaking first rehearsal and numerous rewrites we’re gearing up for the second rehearsal of September’s Diabetes Mystery podcast entitled “Gypsies, Tramps and Peas”.

What I learned from the first rehearsal was that the dialogue needs to be punched up, scenes need to be edited, and several Coney Island character need to be developed. But, all in all, I was happy with the diabetes education tips and the mystery’s storyline.

Once again the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic (that’s me) finds himself mixed up in a murder mystery investigation when he arrives in Coney Island to attend the 35th Annual Mermaid Parade.

My character experiences a change of heart in the ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ storyline from past episodes. Believe it or not, Mr. Divabetic willfully decides to get involved in a murder investigation because it involved my high school swim coach, Ted Rockow.

Will he sink or swim?

Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.

Don’t miss Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Lang Lang on Tuesday, April 11, 2017, 6- 7:30 PM. Guests include Grammy Award winning singer, Lisa Fischer, podiatrist Dr. Michele Summers Colon DPM, diabetes advocate Eugenia, Poet Lorraine Brooks, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach and Mama Rose Marie. TUNE IN

11/23/2016

Baked Rice or Quinoa Pudding by the Diabetic Pastry Chef

The Diabetic Pastry Chef, Stacey Harris’s recipes are featured in this year’s Diabetes Mystery podcast, “Suspect Boulevard” featuring Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach and Mama Rose Marie.

Millions of people with, at risk and affected by diabetes read mystery paperbacks and there’s a huge collection of books featuring super indulgent recipes that really bug me. I think it’s high-time someone wrote a mystery featuring healthy and delicious recipes so I asked Stacey Harris, The Diabetic Pastry Chef to contribute some recipes for this year’s diabetes mystery podcast.

Type 2 diabetes doesn’t stop Stacey Harris. From her tasty treats to her outlook on life, this pastry chef keeps things as sweet as can be! Her flavor combinations and attention to detail make Stacey’s treats so craveable, while her soft voice and gentle smile make this pastry chef just so lovable reports Diabetic Living magazine.

Baked Rice or Quinoa Pudding Recipe by the Diabetic Pastry Chef Stacey Harris

Ingredients

2 cups milk or unsweetened almond milk

3 eggs, beaten

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

½ tsp. cinnamon

1/4 tsp. nutmeg

¾ cup cooked brown rice or quinoa

1 cup Whey Low D granular

3 tbsp. melted butter

½ cup raisins

Directions

Combine all ingredients mixing well. Pour into an ungreased 1 ½ quart casserole dish or individual ramekins. Bake in preheated 375 degree oven for approximately 45 minutes or until center of pudding is firm and does not shake. Can be served warm or cold. Refrigerate any leftovers.

LISTEN NOW: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Ella Fitzgerald podcast hosted by Mr. Divabetic. Throughout the podcast we will be playing music from the album, Columbia Jazz; Ella Fitzgerald, 1973 courtesy of SONY Music.