WHAT TRIGGERS SEIZURES?
As I mentioned before, there are certain things that can trigger seizures even in people without epilepsy such as a fever, drugs, alcohol or a head injury. Some people with epilepsy have totally unpredictable seizures with no distinct trigger. In other people, their seizures may be initiated or worsened at times of stress, sleep deprivation, or when they drink alcohol. Some people (particularly children) with epilepsy may have seizures in response to flashing lights or rapidly moving patterns. This is called "photosensitive" epilepsy. In these individuals, video games, certain cartoons, action movies, or strobe lights may cause their seizures. Missing doses of anti-seizure medications or not taking them exactly as the doctor prescribes can also lead to seizures. That's why it's so important to get plenty of sleep, manage stress, and take your medication every day when you have epilepsy.


So, Epilepsy Awareness Month is half way over and I am pleased to say that I have reached 855 views since Nov.1st. I still have a way to go to my goal of 1000 views so I'd greatly appreciate any posts to Facebook or Pinterest to keep spreading the word about epilepsy. Thanks to all my friends and family who have supported this blog and sent in recipes!

Tonight's recipe is one of my favorite comfort foods. I love mashed potatoes, especially with gravy :). My local farmer's market had the most beautiful purple potatoes so I put on my elastic waistband pants and whipped up a batch of these creamy mashed potatoes. This is definitely not a recipe to try if you're on a diet! And just to head off any potential questions about the color of these potatoes, I did NOT add any food coloring. Is this a thing of beauty or what??

Creamy Purple Mashed Potatoes
Adapted from Ree Drummond
Serves 8

5 lbs of purple potatoes , peeled
3 large cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
1 8 ounce package of cream cheese, softened
1 stick of salted butter+ 2 TB for top
1/2-3/4 cup of half and half
1/2 tsp of kosher salt
1/2 tsp of black pepper

Preheat oven to 350

Peel potatoes and cut each one into 6-8 equal sized pieces. Peel three large cloves of garlic and smash with the back of a knife. Add the potatoes and garlic to a pot and fill with water. Bring water to a boil and cook potatoes until fork tender (about 20-30 minutes). Drain potatoes and garlic and put back in pot. Mash with a potato masher and then add in cream cheese, butter, and half and half one at a time, mashing and stirring at each step. Add salt and pepper and adjust to taste.

Take a small pat of butter and grease a baking dish. Transfer potatoes to the baking dish and cook for 25 minutes. Top with the remaining pats of butter and serve.