my story begins about 4 years ago when my grandson, brandon, was restricted to a diet free of gluten, wheat, eggs, dairy, and peanuts. i was totally bewildered. how could i possibly cook properly for him and his family? i only remember once that i wept in my kitchen pantry out of frustration, but many times i felt that inadequate. brandon's mom gave me a couple of recipes, which i prepared on every visit. i also had a house rule that no one was allowed to eat forbidden foods in his presence. i felt that i was doing all that i could until one innocent remark changed my life. we were in a grocery store and brandon took my hand, led me to a display, and said longingly, "look, nana, those are called muffins". it brought tears to my eyes, and i vowed to myself that i would learn to cook delicious foods - gluten, wheat, dairy, egg, and peanut free. it has been a journey of trial and error. i cannot tell you that i have successes every time, but imagination and persistence has paid off. i have felt led to write this book, and it is my wish that it will help your family as much as it has helped mine. barbara wells