Confessions of a Competitive Mom

We have a delightful program at our school called Thoughtful Thursday. Every Thursday, homemade treats are brought in by parents to the teachers. Because I had a food business and all the teachers knew about it, the bar is set pretty high when I need to bring in treats.

I have to admit, though, I'd like to get by with a bowl of cut up fruit or mix made muffins like many of the other moms bring in.

But, my pride won't let me. Why?

I've had pneumonia. The cold that I had developed into something that knocked me on my butt, literally. I finally am starting to feel like I'm back to normal.

Last Thursday, though, I was in the grips of it. And of course, as the laws of nature and motherhood dictate, it was my turn again to bring in teacher treats.

I literally did not have the strength to fuss much, but my reputation? Could I let it go? Hell no.

Bread machine to the rescue! (And my good cook status is still intact.)

Whole Wheat Cinnamon Golden Raisin Date Bread

Fat free, but I have no idea how many WW Points. I was sick, remember? (And I don't feel like figuring it out now, especially since my measurements are so vague. Sorry about that, but that's how I really cook. Throw it all together and eyeball the measurements.)

1 1/4 cups water

2 tbsp applesauce

3 1/4 cups stone ground wheat flour

1/4 cup brown sugar (or other sweetener, I bet honey would be fantastic)

lots of cinnamon (2 tsp?)

some powdered ginger (1/2 tsp?)

3 1/2 tsp yeast

lots and lots of golden raisins

about half as many dates as raisins

Add in the order your bread machine recommends. Makes a 2 pound loaf. Bake on whole wheat or regular setting with light crust.

I also made Third Bread, recipe here.

And I sent them both, on a tray with honey cream cheese spread. (Low fat, Neufchatel cream cheese mixed with honey until slightly sweetened).

Yep, I'm an overachiever. Yep, I'm competitive. But, the teachers appreciate it. And I know that they don't always feel like facing our kids every day, with colds or cramps or headaches, or whatever. So, I did my bit.

As a side note, if you do this for your school, let me tell you a little secret. The teachers get inundated with sinful treats. While they appreciate it, more of them love it if you send in something that will not put them into a diabetic coma.