tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5693314436466529902024-03-04T23:23:34.555-06:00Living The Blue Collar WayJandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.comBlogger79125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-1622223257130442612014-04-19T13:23:00.002-05:002014-04-19T13:23:29.450-05:00Life and New BeginningsSo, as I'm sure a lot of you have noticed. I haven't been very present to this blog.<br /><br />There are a lot of reasons why, some personal, some not. A lot of life has gotten in the way of being here of course. <br /><br />Here's the lowdown for you, the Cliff's notes version. My oldest son was diagnosed with Developmental Dyspraxia. Since he already had Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, etc., etc., etc., it was a little confusing, but not too overwhelming.<br /><br />Then my youngest was diagnosed with ASD. Which, apparently I was the only one who didn't see that diagnosis coming and it hit me pretty hard. Harder than I would like to admit.<br /><br />Then after a living in Autism land for a while the family - including extended, decided as a group to have my oldest son tested. Not surprisingly, he tested out in what used to be known as Asperger's. And life with him, got harder and easier after that.<br /><br /><br />Shortly after, I went through a change in myself. After being diagnosed with Diabetes (which is genetic), they found out that I had metabolic syndrome. Which explained a lot, but not everything. A short time later, I found out that I had NAFLD (Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease). My liver was inflamed and enlarged and had been causing me pain for quite some time. One doc swears it's NASH, another says it's not quite there yet. Either way, with my genetics, it's never good.<br /><br />That discovery scared me, a lot. My father, who passed some years back died of congestive heart failure, but his liver was right behind. A raging alcoholic for many years, it had done his liver in. My mother, who is 30 years sober and clean this year, also has congestive heart failure and diabetes. Her kidneys are in the very beginning stages of failure and though no one's checked her liver, it's just kind of accepted that her liver probably isn't too good either.<br />
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That being said, over all she does quite well most of the time and most don't know that there is anything wrong. Though she has her days now and again.<br /><br />Shortly after my liver diagnosis, I found myself pretty low. I looked around at my life and realized that though I'd thought I'd recovered fully from post partum depression from my youngest, I hadn't really come all the way out. Not to mention, life with two special needs boys, with various appointments, medications, therapies, etc. was not the calmest. My anxiety level was through the roof!<br /><br /><br />After a LONG look around at the mess I had my house in, the unorganized way I was living yet again, I made the jaunt into my doc's office.<br />
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This isn't something most like to admit, but lets face it. Life is messy, it's crazy and everyone today seems to be trying to be perfect. Newsflash - we're not! :) If no one talks about this, then it becomes misinformation, it becomes the elephant in the room. As bloggers, we kind of put our life out there for everyone to see. Life though, it's not always pretty pictures, perfect projects and tasty treats! I made a decision a long time ago, when my oldest son was first diagnosed that I would not try to hide behind pretend perfection. There was so much stigma involved with various diagnosis and misinformation, and I wanted to be honest with people, up front. So, that they can learn. My son could learn, as could I.<br /><br />Not many people know this, but I am NOT a fan of Big Pharma - at all. I mean, I could stand on the nearest street corner soap box and lecture for an hour or more all the reasons that I don't like medications. That being said, I've also learned that sometimes you need a little help up. My children for example, are treated with various natural remedies (when I can afford them) and my oldest does take medication. My youngest, we're still trying to go the natural way with him though. So, I guess I walk the line, though my heart definitely is always leaning toward more natural ways to do things.<br /><br />So, making that decision to walk into the doctor's office and say: I need help, was hard. Not just hard, but H. A. R. D.!!!!! <br /><br />That being said....I've been on what we term "happy pills" for several months now and I feel like my old self. Which has been amazing. I've adjusted the way we run the house, because of my liver and we now do pretty much NO chemicals in our home. Which was a bit of an adjustment, but it's been a welcome one. We've since moved from our old place to this new one. We have routines, organization, peace, laughs, giggles, more space and more light in our lives.<br /><br />So, with that long novel, I'm telling you that I will be blogging again. Maybe not quite regularly just yet, but keep your eyes open, because I've got a lot I want to share with you all. Turns out living completely chemical free is also VERY economical! ;) <br /><br />For those of you who've stuck with me through the LONG absence, you are amazing! I hope you're all doing as good as we are. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-91548016691865165732013-04-20T08:19:00.000-05:002013-04-20T08:19:21.127-05:00Our Newest Hurdle<br />
I would like to apologize for not being more active on here as well as my FB page. I wanted to explain why, but deciding to share something so personal takes a while to work up the courage to do.<br /><br />I debated on whether or not to share this with you all. I mean, technically I don't know all of you personally and I've not even told my closest friends yet. In fact aside from my immediate few family members and my docs, no one knows.<br />
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It isn't anything truly awful I suppose, but just like when you're diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, I'm sure I will hear it all....your diet did this, or you should've lost weight sooner, or something along those lines. With my type 2 diabetes though, it was genetic. Simply put, no amount of great diet, or weight was going to stop it from getting me!<br />
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Over the last few months, I've been getting more and more exhausted, despite having my blood sugar under control and eating a more controlled diet. I didn't understand why though, I was even angry at myself for being so tired. Well, after months and months of that exhaustion level rising and rising and rising and this uncomfortable feeling under right rib, getting more and more uncomfortable, it finally turned to pain this last Wednesday. Enough, after 2 days to drive me to the doctor, and I don't generally go, unless forced to.<br />
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Thursday afternoon, I received a call from my doctor's office, telling me that I have second stage liver disease, aka NASH (Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis). What this means is that for some reason, my liver has begun to store fat and is now enlarged. This is the uncomfortable feeling I've had under my rib for the last year or so. They (the doc's office), is working through some insurance red tape to get me in for a biopsy to determine how far into NASH I am.<br />
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Anecdotal evidence suggests that if I can give my liver a break as it were, from processing any high fats, chemicals, etc. I can work my way back down slowly or hold my liver here for a while. So, I am learning and working with a wonderful group of individuals who have NAFLD (Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) or NASH or whose children have it. Some of them have had to have transplants, others have slowly worked their livers from toward the end of stage 3 to the beginning and other have held their's where it is, in NASH, and done so successfully for years.<br /><br />I share this because, I've shared everything about our lives here. I've tried to give you an honest look into what is becoming more and more, a typical blue collar home. The more our life is out there, the more people may talk about Autism, Tourette Syndrome, Dyspraxia, SPD, etc. The more it makes those of us with all these things in our lives feel less alone. So, I shared this in the hopes that maybe a little light will get shone on this as well. I read an article that said something like 1 in 10 have this and do not know. There are no signs, until the exhaustion starts and that can be any number of things. They said two things that struck me: One, that I have had this for years, most likely a decade or more and didn't know. And two, that I am lucky, that most people don't come in until there is already cirrhosis of the liver! <br /><br />I shared this not for sympathy, in fact this is the reason I haven't told any of my friends - I'm not a big fan of sympathy. I shared it because, this is our life and most likely the lives of many others out there. It also explains to you and me, why sometimes I just haven't the energy to get to doing all the bloggy things I used to do all the time. I'm working on this though and hopefully will have good news to report eventually!<br /><br />My nephews are coming over today, so I've got to tidy up and get breakfast going around here. I hope that you all are having a great weekend!<br /><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-18376943948147746832013-04-13T22:46:00.001-05:002013-04-17T08:31:39.590-05:00Gluten Free/Dairy Free (Eggs & Milk Free) Onion RingsThe hardest part about going not only dairy free, but gluten free as well is the loss of those beloved comfort foods. Well, at least it is for me. I mean, technically I can still eat all those great foods (even as a diabetic), but that is hardly fair to the boys as they sit there watching me salivate over my goodies. So, of course I try to eat as they do.<br />
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One of the hardest things for them to give up though was onion rings. I seriously don't see the big whoop though because I am seriously not a fan of onions. To be honest, I've only just started to cook with them in the last few years of my 30-some years of life. Yes, I am that picky! Anyway, I stumbled on this one recipe that just didn't quite work for us after a while. No matter what I did, each time I made them, each batch was worse and worse. Naturally, I tweaked it until we came out with probably the most delicious onions rings I've ever tasted - though to be fair, I've obviously never tasted an onion ring before now. That being said, I swear these guys are so gosh darned good, even I could sit down and eat nothing but, onion rings!<br />
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<i>Apologies for not so great photo, I'd just found out that my youngest had erased my entire memory card and did not pay attention to lighting or settings....love how they figure those things out! </i></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Gluten Free/Dairy Free Onion Rings</span></u></b><br />
1 cp of All Purpose GF flour*<br />
1/2 - 1 tsp onion powder<br />
1/2 - 1 tsp chili seasoning**<br />
1/2 - 3/4 tsp hamburger seasoning<br />
3/4 tsp garlic powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp baking powder<br />
1 tsp paprika<br />
1/4 tsp of ground pepper<br />
1 onion, sliced into rings (or however you like)<br />
1 cp of water<br />
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* I've had to do what I think is about 1 1/4 cps of flour most the time. If your batter is a little too runny, slowly add more flour.<br />
** I use <a href="http://beckyintherootcellar.com/2011/03/31/homemade-chili-seasoning/#" target="_blank">Root Cellar's Garden homemade chili seasoning</a> for this.<br />
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<u>Super easy directions: </u><br />
Heat your oil while you get your ingredients together and mixed. Slice your rings.<br />
Add all ingredients in a bowl. (I mix the dry all together before adding the water.) Let it sit for a few minutes.<br />
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Drop your rings into the batter. Using tongs, move around and dredge the rings in the batter until nicely coated. That's it! Just CAREFULLY place your rings, one at a time, into the oil. Yes, it's tempting to drop several in at once but, then they literally stick together. Do it one at a time, as good old AB (Alton Brown) always says, "Your patience will be rewarded". <br />
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Remove to a paper towel lined plate or a cooling wrack over the top of a cookie sheet, whatever you've got to do, will work. I used paper towels, because I was just too rushed to do another set of dishes. Ok, ok, you can call it lazy, today I'm not offended by that. I'm channeling my inner Garfield. :)<br />
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If you so need, sprinkle a little salt on them while they're fresh out of the oil and let cool.<br />
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I promise you, when you're done, you will thoroughly enjoy the rewards of a job well done. I'm not joking when I say that I seriously couldn't stop nibbling when I perfected this recipe! Did I mention that I seriously abhor onions?! It wasn't just me either, my mother, Mr. Blue Collar and even my stepson couldn't keep their hands out of the finished batch. I think I only managed to save half a batch to my freezer for future use. They are so tasty!<br />
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Alright, I promise, no more forcing my new found love of onions on you. If you try this, I hope that you enjoy it!<br />
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P.S. This batter for these onion rings is loved so much, my oldest son even asks me to make his fish sticks with it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-73316580483012041342013-04-09T08:09:00.000-05:002013-04-09T08:09:31.159-05:00The Honest Life Book ReviewThe Honest Life...alright, I'm just going to say it. I was totally against the name of this book. I mean really a Hollywood actress with a million dollar lifestyle...what is she going to say to me that is going to even be the littlest bit relatable to me?<br />
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I ate my words. I mean it. I completely and utterly was so judgmental! <br />
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I am a mother, who like Jessica, did my research and was horrified at what they've put out there for our families to eat, to use in their daily lives, etc.. At the time though I was almost completely overwhelmed and sort circuited. Jessica though, took it and ran with it.<br />
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Why I loved her book:<br />
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She tells you why eating organic and/or locally is important, but does it in a manner that doesn't make you feel horrible if this is something that you can't afford to do. She addresses the dirty dozen and the clean fifteen, GMOs, seasonal produce but, doesn't demand we all pop out and start growing our own food. She even admits she has a "black thumb" where growing things is concerned.<br />
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She tackled the cleaning area of "Honest living", by talking about VOCs, Hepa filters, dust, mold, etc. She even tells you more than once in her book that you don't have to go buy her company's products that you can do it yourself or find something else that works. As a matter of fact, she even goes so far as to give you several recipes for cleaning supplies!<br />
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I'm not much of a girly girl. I mean I literally brush my hair, slap it in a ponytail and go, but if you are, she has you covered there as well. From make ups you should watch out for to masks you can make yourself, she's thought of it all. Yes, including fashion, for all you fashionistas out there!<br />
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I think my favorite part of the book was the back. Not very exciting I know but, I'm the kind of rushed mom that needs all my info literally in one place or I'm never going to find it. Yes, I am one of those 'I put it in a place so I wouldn't forget - and forget where that place is' kind of girls! So, the back filled with great charts that tell you which fish is a safer choice, where you can go to learn more or the list of "dishonest" ingredients" is perfect for me.<br />
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Overall, I was really impressed. She admits she is "just a mom" and tells you to go find these things out for yourself. So many places in the book she acknowledges that not everyone can afford to do what she does, and turns around and gives you practical advice on how you can do the best that you can in an area.<br />
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In this day and age where so many celebrities endorse products, or their own companies and tell you that their product is the best way, or the only way. She's not afraid to say, hey here's another option you can try. Or here's a suggestion on how you can make this work for you and your family. There is some kind of respect that a celebrity can gain in my book if you can not only acknowledge those out there who make less than you do but, then offer them an alternative to help themselves.<br />
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It's Honest-ly refreshing! I would recommend this book to anyone.<br />
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You can get her book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Honest-Life-Living-Naturally-True/dp/1609619110/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1365125069&sr=1-1&keywords=the+honest+life" target="_blank">here</a> or visit her company's page here: </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>I was not paid or compensated to endorse this book, the review is my own</i></span>.</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-9092510934566002492013-04-04T17:45:00.005-05:002013-04-04T17:45:56.850-05:00Real Life: Why we are milk and gluten protein free!Since I have been posting a lot of dairy free, gluten free and/or allergy free things on my FB page, I thought that maybe I should tell you all why. I've mentioned it in passing before but, it's time to share a bit more of our life with you all.<br />
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<i>My boys at the Special People day at the local Shriner's Circus.</i></div>
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It started when DW my oldest son, was born with something called MSPI (milk/soy protein intolerance). It apparently only happens in the midwest and/or if you're from the midwest. I'm thinking our diet is most likely to blame but, who knows really. It is when the little guys or gals can't digest milk and/or soy proteins. Some kiddos get this worse than others, while others simply switch to a soy milk or if breast feeding, the mom switches to a few things and your kiddo is almost as good as new. My two little guys though, they happened to get probably one of the worst cases our doctor had ever seen.<br />
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DW was admitted to the hospital twice for failure to thrive, dehydration and malabsorption issues all due to his MSPI. I was advised then to stop breast feeding and switch to a soy formula. We didn't know any different and followed doctor's advice. Which led to switching from a soy formula to a another formula, to another and another until my son was put on NG (Nasal Gastric tube) feeds on a 24hr pump. That lasted for 6 months. Where they literally just dripped food in by the hour - DRIPPED IT IN! They wanted to do a TPN but, feared he would not survive, that's how bad off he was. That's when we landed on something called Vivenex T.E.N. and he could tolerate it, it was a godsend. Horrible, awful stuff really. Given to people in a vegetative state. So you can imagine how truly tasty it really was. When he ripped his tube out at 10 months old, I asked the doc if we could try it without the tube and we were able to do that successfully. By 2yrs old though, we were told that he'd outgrow his MSPI and to go about our lives. So, we did just that.<br />
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Two years before my youngest was born, DW was diagnosed with something called functional abdominal pain. What did that mean? That they could find no reason for his stomach pain, even after he was scoped at both ends! He would just double over in the fetal position for hours sometimes, other times, just minutes. Yet, afterwards he'd sit up and eat, drink and even talk, like it never happened. As you can imagine though, it wasn't conducive to weight gain, let alone maintaining his weight. There are theories that it is some form of stomach migraine, food protein sensitivities, to psychosomatic. They gave us a medication and said in time it would help his pain and even his appetite, as he was still small in size. I was never really sure that it worked really but, I was scared so we went with it.<br />
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Flash forward to when my youngest was born. I breastfed him the entire time. 3 months in, like clockwork, he began the screaming that MSPI entails - not fussing or even crying, SCREAMING! I stayed breastfeeding him this time though and thoroughly changed my diet, but like his brother, he was extremely sensitive to just about everything. Still, I was determined to breast feed until he was 2 years old! By the time he was 12 months old though, I decided that there was only so many times I could eat ground turkey, sweet potatoes, brown rice, green beans and just a couple of other things. Literally a very narrow diet.<br />
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<i>JD at his 1st birthday, with his diary free cake. He was a big fan of the frosting! </i></div>
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By the time JD, my youngest, was 2 years old, DW was now in constant pain and no one could tell me why. His failure to thrive diagnosis was still in place and in fact, he'd lost even more weight and only wanted to eat macaroni and cheese and ice cream! Which jogged my memory. I'd read an article during my MSPI research that sometimes the things we're most allergic to become the things we crave! So, with a little nudge from a wonderful friend, the lady behind <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sensory-Street-Inc/167715775514?fref=ts" target="_blank">Sensory Street Inc.</a> on FB, named Ida, the very next morning I removed milk/casein from both of their diets again and changed their vitamin supplements to something a little more easily digestible. Liquid, no preservatives, gluten, dairy, etc. free.<br />
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<i>DW, 6 years old, pale, and a few months away from almost being put in hospital in 2010.</i></div>
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Within a week, he was eating more things, his pallor improved so dramatically it was almost scary! Within a couple of months, he went from 8 medications down to 5 and of those 5 left, I was able to get 2 of them to half strength or to the lowest dose possible! Which was progress. I'm not one of those moms that can just give their kids meds and be ok with it. Even though he's taken them for years, I cry before every new drug, no matter how small the dose. So, to loose them or shrink them, made me feel fantastic.<br />
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Flash forward a few months and every disorder that this boy had, was so much milder, it was like living with a different kid period! His tics from his TS (Tourette Syndrome) were so much milder mainly. He went from ticcing so hard, he couldn't walk, he was beating himself up, he couldn't finish a sentence (partly due to tics and partly due to his OCD that made him have to start the sentence over every time a tic stopped him from talking straight through). He went from having coprolalia - that would be what the general population thinks of when they hear Tourette Syndrom, to never expressing an urge to do it! The change in just his TS alone was mind blowing!<br />
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It peaked my interest for sure. So, like any science geek, I did the research, read articles, bought numerous books, listened to online lectures from scientists and doctors. As my step-son says, I "got my geek on"! I learned how or why this might happen and what I learned, changed the way that I look at food, how we feed ourselves, our crops, and the pharmaceutical companies too! No worries, I'm not going to lecture you, promise. This was just our journey and it's not for everyone. So, if you want to know more, ask and I'll tell you but, otherwise, no preaching here! :)<br />
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Over time, we began to go organic as much as we could afford to do above and beyond the milk free stuff we had to buy.<br />
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Flash forward another 2 years..<br />
My oldest, DW, is getting poked and prodded for what must me the millionth time in his little life. I was holding his skinny, little, legs down while these sterile nurses attempted to get blood from his pale, little hand. I looked down at his teared streaked face and thought, "What am I doing? Why are we doing this again?!". It was at that moment I realized that instead of continually drawing blood to check for Celiac disease yet again, let's just go gluten free to save the trouble! My son has shown every indication/symptom of Celiac apparently all these years. When they'd check him though, he'd test negative. So, they said, let's check him every 6 months - 12 months....which for some insane reason I agreed to. After my epiphany though, we haven't had to go back! And yes, I put my other son on a gluten free too. I mean DW was allergic to strawberries and JD had followed suite, DW was sensitive to peanuts and JD followed suite. So, chances are that if one was sensitive to gluten, then the other one was or would be. So, why not?<br />
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Was it easy? No! As a matter of fact, he actually had what a neurologist/psychologist who knows his stuff said, was severe withdrawal symptoms from the gluten! He had a violent breakdown in the OT/PT's office that was like something he had as a wee child before we removed him from milk. It was INTENSE!<br />
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<i>DW just this February after he woke and brought his menagerie of animals with him. </i></div>
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That breakdown was on day 4 of going gluten free. By the end of that week, he was almost neuro-typical! I ask him to pick up and like a typical 8yr old he grumbles, protests and then....picks up! He still tics, but his aggression is next to nil now. He actually smiles and laughs a lot! He's currently in the process of being knocked down on his ADHD meds and his OCD/Anxiety meds as well! Oh and his appetite improved by leaps and bounds!! He went from barely eating anything for breakfast, to wanting 4 gfcf pancakes! He went from avidly avoiding anything he'd never eaten before to actively agreeing to try at least one bite of new foods. Which is a HUGE sensory thing in my house and something both boys are super sensitive to.<br />
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As for my youngest when he went gluten free...<br />
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<i>My silly little jokster at our local zoo. </i></div>
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Newly diagnosed with ASD in November, I was given an ADHD med to put him on. I cried for 2 days before I put him on it but, I did so because I knew I couldn't handle him as he was. This kiddo was all over the place! I went to the bathroom one time...literally not even a single minute: 60 seconds....in that time, he had stacked enough things up to get to the things I'd put on top of the fridge! He was like a wind up toy without anything to wear him down! His therapists would continually tell me that I needed to work on his attention span at home....does anyone know how to do that?! When I would ask, none of them could even give me an idea on how to do this. So, it wasn't just me struggling with this sweet little boy. I loved him though and didn't want to loose his silliness, and I knew meds might do that to him, so it was heartbreaking to do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibW-ADw1VY13S3EW408n0x8vAG025NKMKvzpbv-Uksm7T0gybkBrYUFY0VcFIF-dYsObTjUlKGV2rRr_qDIsGkQYFRwiiUCqnEADp0rbYrqkUdLHScnGybpv8-OaF5oy2RIOAAznOta-87/s1600/IMGP0700.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibW-ADw1VY13S3EW408n0x8vAG025NKMKvzpbv-Uksm7T0gybkBrYUFY0VcFIF-dYsObTjUlKGV2rRr_qDIsGkQYFRwiiUCqnEADp0rbYrqkUdLHScnGybpv8-OaF5oy2RIOAAznOta-87/s320/IMGP0700.JPG" width="320" /></a>Shortly after going gluten free, he got sick, the first time in his whole little life he's ever gotten sick period. He was always my healthy ox! A poster child for a breastfed baby, he never really got a cold even until this last year! He was loosing things from top and bottom. So, I don't typically give them their ADHD meds when they are that sick. He was sick for 6 days and at the end of those 6 days without meds and being gluten free, he was calmer - much calmer. Now, I know it takes time for those meds that have built up in his body to fully dissipate but, the difference in just that short of a time was distinct.<br />
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He's still a little wilder than the neighbor boys but, still way more still than he was before. His ASD traits <br />
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show a little more, like when he prefers to sit in the room with me but, not want to play or talk to anyone but, he is TONS calmer! He is actively trying to be silly again, he smiles, laughs...still avoids too much eye contact but, he's medication free now and he seems happier and healthier all around. It did not make the impact on him as much as it did for my older child and there are some theories as to why. Mostly they hold that his premature birth and lack of oxygen at birth contributed to his current neurological predicaments but, that's ok. He's still my little man!<br />
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Did I go gluten free for a behavior change? No, I didn't. I did it for the health of my oldest son. What happened in the process though was worth it alone. Since that time, I got my "geek on" a lot more and have learned TONS of information on why this might've happened. Do I preach to the masses? Not always. If asked, then yes but, generally I understand that not everyone believes in this, I used to be one of them. I understand that not everyone is blessed enough with being able to afford the things that we've had to do. My husband doesn't make a ton of money but, he does make more than your average burger flipper. Which has entailed us to slowly figure out how to do what we've done over the years.<br />
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So, if I share a lot about gluten free and/or milk free, or organics, or a bit more whole foods a lot on my FB page or Pinterest page, this is why. These boys are my whole world and getting them to where they are today is worth pinching and stretching every penny to me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Q-u7WbS7xR_xVcNdURxfh8SRzGntZQYnyvj6BT3VufYAeQdNk3cUmqN9XGJGlX0XVqKYGFoBE6IRvvcqxNxzKThABmHxuPBvIIuSZxKZ6HQktF_jw2lVXx5RbceIq6cifyw_EMuLaysP/s1600/IMGP0465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2Q-u7WbS7xR_xVcNdURxfh8SRzGntZQYnyvj6BT3VufYAeQdNk3cUmqN9XGJGlX0XVqKYGFoBE6IRvvcqxNxzKThABmHxuPBvIIuSZxKZ6HQktF_jw2lVXx5RbceIq6cifyw_EMuLaysP/s640/IMGP0465.JPG" width="640" /></a>Do I force my opinions or experience on everyone else? No! This is just our experiences. And I say again, I realize that not all of us can afford to eat this way. We did it slowly, one thing at a time over the course of 4 years. It's tight sometimes, a lot more than we'd all like but, their neurological and physical health is worth it to us. And no, I don't condemn or look down at anyone who doesn't do this!<br />
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I shared this so that some of you who've messaged me can get an answer to why I termed my page and blog "Blue Collar" but, then speak of organics, dairy free and/or gluten free recipes or post things about health that might seem bizarre to the general public. I do not think that we all can afford this kind of stuff but, when you have to for the health of your children, you learn to cut corners. Like cable, we do not have cable - shocking I know. We do not have voicemail, call waiting, caller ID or anything like that. We have a straight land line phone for emergencies and I have a very cheap cell phone, with no real perks, that I keep with me in case something goes wrong while out at one of their appointments or anything like that. We buy our zoo membership, children's museum memberships etc. with our tax refunds because otherwise we'd have no way to afford that normally. So yes, I realize that we all can't afford to eat this way, nor do the things that we've done and I don't look down on anyone who can't. This is just OUR life, it may not work for you but, diversity is what life is all about! Right?<br />
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Hope this answers some of your questions you may have on why I share what I share as far as organics, GMOs, health, etc. goes. I hope you all have a wonderful week everyone!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-14302143154924478522013-04-01T11:16:00.000-05:002013-04-01T11:16:13.896-05:00Gluten Free "Ketchup Burger" or BBQ burgers...You decide!Weird title for a blog post, I know. Here's the thing, sometimes when we get on a roll here, we are on a roll and can't be stopped. And maybe sometimes I get a bit distracted and don't necessarily get all my ducks lined up in a row before I begin a recipe. Every now and again though, they turn out pretty tasty, this happens to be one of those recipes!<br />
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I was bopping along when I realized that I had no gf Worcestershire sauce. Mistake realized, I just kept going in the hopes that it would turn out well, it smelled great, so why not? Daring, I know!<br />
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I would site where I got the recipe from but, apparently in my haste, I'd scribbled it on a piece of paper and no mention of where I got it from...worried that I was going to loose it was partially the reason for this post! ;) If you figure it out, by all means share and I'll definitely give credit where credit is due!<br />
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<i>Photo courtesy of: DW my oldest son. Love this kid!</i></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Ketchup Burgers:</span></u></b><br />
1/2 cp of ketchup<br />
2tbs brown sugar<br />
1 tbs dijon mustard<br />
1tbs honey*<br />
1 tbs apple cider vinegar<br />
1 tbs molasses<br />
(for BBQ burgers: 2tbs of Worcestershire sauce)<br />
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<ul>
<li>Mix together in a bowl and add whatever amount of sauce you desire atop of any burger, as you grill it. Or do what we do and mix a little of it in a burger. </li>
<li>Now, I don't always have the dijon mustard on hand either. So, in those times, while it's not the same, I will use an equal amount of honey and regular mustard. </li>
<li>*Normally we use raw honey but, when I'm making BBQ like things or sauces like this, I use cinnamon honey. In particular I used <a href="http://betterbeemktg.com/honey/" target="_blank">Better Bee's</a> cinnamon honey in this recipe. </li>
<li>Also, we used crushed GF pretzels in our burgers as well, so if you can do gluten, bread crumbs or crackers could be good. Otherwise, if you're GF and not an airhead like me on a bad day, you can prepare and use your own GF breadcrumbs. </li>
</ul>
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We make these so often, we no longer really make a batch of BBQ sauce, we just eyeball the ingredients and add straight to our ground meat, along with several cloves of diced or chopped garlic, and a bit of salt and pepper to taste.<br />
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So, how did we get the name "Ketchup Burgers"? Well, my son who never wants to try anything new, agreed to try them when he saw me putting ketchup into the burgers. Well, long story short, we also happened to not have GF Worcestershire sauce on hand either. Though I'll be honest, they still tasted amazing! Anyway, when I told him it was lunch time, he asked if these were the ketchup burgers. The name just stuck! Whether you want Ketchup Burgers or make the BBQ sauce, well that's for you to decide!<br />
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Hope you all are having a fantastic day! If not, grab a glass of tea and enjoy the signs of spring we're finally seeing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-50426348325540268372013-02-03T22:44:00.000-06:002013-02-03T22:45:08.044-06:00Soup-er BowlsAlright, so here's where you understand that I grew up in small, farmville, middle of nowhere Nebraska. Where you didn't go to the big super stores except for monthly and if you had to go shopping in town, it cost an arm and a leg! So, when you went shopping, you stocked up.<br />
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I am not the lets buy groceries for a few days type of gal, nor am I the lets stock up for a few weeks kind of gal either. In the heartland, you learn winters can be hard and long. Storm seasons come and go and can knock you round and round. No big cities nearby for most of us to get flashlight batteries or water, etc. Out there, you learn to make sure you have what you need on hand.<br />
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So, once or twice a year, I stock up on supplies for the whole family. That's right 6 months minimum of food or cooking/baking basics. Whatever I know we'll need, and yes, it takes me a bit to figure out a year's worth of liquid vitamins for the boys, or how much flour I might need. As you can imagine, places like Sam's club or Costco have become like family! :)<br />
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Why tell you this? Because once or twice a year, I go through my vacuum sealed foods, or boxes, cans, etc. and see what is about to expire or needs to be used. Today I discovered gluten free/dairy free bisquick and cans of soup where ready to be taken out of rotation. So, that is what I needed to use, for the Super Bowl! Hence: Soup-er Bowls, complete with side of biscuits! :)<br />
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<i>Three things to note here. One, my camera is sucking batteries dry so, we're once again stuck with BAD cell phone pictures. Two, look at my colorful, pretty handmade pot holders, I so love them! And three, keep in mind that measuring and I....were not so much friends as we are acquaintances. I prefer to "eyeball it" most of the time</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4BCOmFcpVo__XcjxJlmsu8sf9ZsLz1RTyx9xDIvw3qZwGOlTpSPJ5QW3pROQ6Qv4kOezKlz4te8IKhiHf3xl5LNphCtYgCEZBNWYQdtHcutjds-u4FrDlZlTYAp7xQGoH1SWuX_b6Gnw/s1600/0203190207_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4BCOmFcpVo__XcjxJlmsu8sf9ZsLz1RTyx9xDIvw3qZwGOlTpSPJ5QW3pROQ6Qv4kOezKlz4te8IKhiHf3xl5LNphCtYgCEZBNWYQdtHcutjds-u4FrDlZlTYAp7xQGoH1SWuX_b6Gnw/s640/0203190207_13.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
Garlic powder, or fresh ground, dehydrated garlic<br />
Salt & Pepper<br />
1 can of your favorite soup<br />
several garlic cloves, minced<br />
shredded cheese, or not, this one is your call<br />
Bisquick (+ milk) or even the store bought ones in a "whomp em" can<br />
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I just minced a bunch of garlic up ahead of time.<br />
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Then I doubled the biscuit recipe on the back of the box. Which was only Bisquick and some milk. I added garlic powder, salt and pepper to the mix. Then I roll it out on a floured surface. Well, most of the time I did but, with my youngest asking to fulfill his "kitchen helper" roll, occasionally we may have just rolled them into balls and flattened them out with our hands! The trick is to get them pretty thin but, not tear holes in them. They also need to be big enough to act as the bottom, sides and top of your 'bowl'.<br />
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I placed our circles into a non-stick muffin tin, making sure to press them down around the bottom. With a bit of spillage over the top. They should kind of look like you had and alien explode out of your chest.......or at least this is what my hubby and stepson compared it too!<br />
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Now then, if you're still not grossed out, or happen to live in an all male world as I do, you're good to continue then! :)<br />
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Next, pop open your can of soup or use your own homemade soup, whatever you want. Mix in the garlic cloves and cheese, if you chose to use them. Spoon in just enough to almost if not fill your cup, if you dare! Then use some water to rub along the edges of your biscuit and fold over in over the top, pinching where the edges meet another. Do this all the way around the top. This is important because if they're not sealed, you can end up with a little mess but, trust me, they're so good and easy to make, any mess is worth it!<br />
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Anyway, once they're pulled over, and sealed all around. Pop them in a 350 degree (Fahrenheit) oven for about 45 minutes or until they're turning golden on top.<br />
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Let them cool for a bit, then remove them. You may need a flat knife just to help raise them up enough to pull out of the tins. Serve them as is and enjoy or....when you flip the top off, you have an instant biscuit that you can butter or put honey on. Just as proper Midwesterners eat soup, with bread or biscuits! A meal in one, you can't beat that, right?<br />
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Is this diabetic friendly? If you have to ask, you shouldn't be eating it! Is it healthy? Well, there are carrots, and potatoes...some protein, a starch....hmmm. I'm going to plead the fifth on this one!<br />
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Hope you had a great game and congratulations to the Ravens fans! I'm signing off to go tuck a little monster back in bed!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-740570167187214602013-01-21T08:07:00.000-06:002013-01-21T12:51:06.846-06:00HomeschoolingToday is not the typical recipe or neat thing I found on the internet. I know, I throw these at you all when you least expect them! Today, I share a part of my real life and as many of you know, I tend to be honest about our struggles, our joys and our real life issues. So, far in the last year alone I've thrown deafness/hard of hearing issues, alcoholism, autism, Tourette syndrome, ADHD, OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder, etc. at you all. To be fair, you've all handled it really nicely! I will say that I get a lot of questions about having kiddos with these various disorders but, the thing I get the most questions about is homeschooling. Which considering I grew up publicly educated, seems to buck the norm.<br />
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<i>JD picked yellow as his color of the day. So, he's picking yellow things out of the picture cards, while he eats his yellow snack. It took him six months of work with his speech and occupational therapists, as well as daily work at home to even be able to do his colors! So, we brush up on them every now and again.</i></div>
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<i>JD practicing with the leftover beans he used to make his name earlier. He traced the numbers and then was working on putting the correct number of beans in each square. Towards the number eight, I began to loose him though! lol He kept at it though.</i><br />
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People are curious about the motivations behind it, or how I do it with two special needs kiddos, or my personal favorite, "what about socialization?". So, here I am, outspoken momma of two special needs boys who homeschools, answering just a few questions that I get asked all the time. Maybe it will help someone out there decide whether to go for it or not. Maybe it will open eyes that there is not only one "type" of homeschooler out there! Maybe it will help those of you out there who think that homeschoolers let their kids run amok! Yes, I get that remark on occasion too! Or maybe it will just satisfy your curiosity about what goes on in at least one homeschooler's home. Kind of like when you catch yourself reading those trashy magazines in line at the grocery store and you just want a peek behind the curtain! Speaking of, I read the titles on those and maybe it's that country girl who didn't really care what anyone else was doing, I just wanted my bull J.C. and a good book or maybe it's just me but, I have no idea who half of these people are on the magazine covers! Yes, I fully admit it, I am not a reality T.V. junkie, which apparently is who half of these people are. I'm the nerdy girl who sits up watching Morgan Freeman's Through the Wormhole, or The Universe but, I digress. Back to homeschooling...<br />
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<i>JD practicing tracing his numbers. He wanted to work on the chalkboard that day, so this is what we did. It's a great idea, according to their OTs!</i></div>
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<u>How did I fall into homeschooling?</u><br />
And yes, I fell into homeschooing! I had begun homeschooling my oldest by the time he was 2. He knew ALL his colors, his shapes, could name every letter of the alphabet, he was doing 24 piece puzzles all by himself, he was a wiz kid and I had run out of the typical preschooler things to teach him. So, little by little I began working on drawing his letters and numbers as well his name. Seemed like a natural projection of what I'd already been doing. Next thing I knew, I had removed him from a special education preschool, where I fought everyday with the school system, and dove head first into homeschooling.<br />
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<i>DW working on handwriting...still! As a kiddo with TS and SPD, he still has issues with handwriting. So, we work on it every single day. I make him trace simple words and then rewrite them on the next line. His handwriting has come far enough along, we are due to stop doing this soon</i>! </div>
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<u>Why did I still choose to homeschool?</u><br />
I get asked this a lot, a lot! I was once told that I homeschooled because I was too lazy to work. Which I laughed at and turned the other cheek to. I used to be a mover and shaker, getting 6 promotions in 3 months, getting paid to wine and dine clients even. I hated it but, I did it because that's what I got paid to do. So, laziness is not really in my vocabulary, obsessive is, neat freak is, nerd is even, but not lazy. :) And if you ask anyone who homeschools, lazy is not something we get to be!! There's lessons, meals, trying to keep a house in order and outside activities...I could go on, trust me!<br />
I chose to homeschool because it was an extension of my being a mom for me. While other little girls dreamed of their weddings growing up, I dreamed of a Victorian house, with 16 rooms all filled with adopted children (because I was never going to get married), and a homeschool room where they could follow whatever course of study interested and best suited them. Weird, I know but, I don't think I have ever been called normal! :) Anyway, I do not think that you're child being educated in the public school system is wrong in any way but, for me, I not only needed to be there for my oldest as much as I could to help him through whatever issue one or more of his disorders were throwing at him but, I wanted him to have a stress free environment. Ok, as much as it could be "stress free". At home though, he can tic without judgement, he can stand up if he needs to, etc.<br />
Not to mention growing up in farm country, now living in a "big" city - alright no city in Nebraska could be "big" by most standards. It's just that when the only towns you've lived in had a population less than 3,000 and that was counting farmer's dogs, cats, cows, chickens, horses and our donkey Sporty (yes, we had a donkey), towns like Lincoln and Omaha are HUGE. They also bring with it a new set of people, who don't all teach their children the same values or manners that small town folk are used to. I could tell you stories! So, for me, I wanted to pass on the values of saying hello to someone as you pass and look them in the eye, of knowing your neighbors, of manners this next generation has seem to forgotten.<br />
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<u>What do you use for curriculum?</u><br />
I'm a notorious eclectic kind of gal. What does that mean? Well, I have structured curriculum in the house and I use it but, not for everything. Sometimes just as a guide line for what my boys should know by the end of the year. I scour the internet some nights looking for ideas, printable or lesson plans if I think it will work. I even sort of unschool by letting the boys lead me in what they want to learn in some areas. We learn a lot through play because, well they're still young and we can! We do field trips, sometimes to the same place for a different thing. Example: The zoo for penguins this next week and then the aquarium in the spring. That's my favorite thing about homeschooling, I can tailor the lesson and/or speed for where they are. Which a public school can't do.<br />
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<u>What about socialization?</u><br />
I can't tell you how many times I hear this. Quite frankly it makes me go bananas. I mean pull my hair out, run through the street yelling bananas! lol Wouldn't that be a sight! During the spring, summer and fall, we have the entire neighborhood of boys in our house. They love to eat all the goodies I make and have on hand. Most states or areas, have a homeschool support group or community group that gets together and does things like flag football, Lego club, etc. They play, talk with and meet peers all the time! For our boys, we were involved with the local TSA (Tourette Syndrome Association) support group and the Hands and Voices chapter so that my big buy could meet other's like himself and recently, we started going to the local Autism Society's functions to meet other kiddos like both boys but, mainly my youngest.<br />
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We still go out and have fun! My son put stickers on my face, so I got to put some on him! :)</div>
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Or we go to meet Monster Truck drivers two days before we go to Monster Jam. Which left my ears ringing for hours afterwards. That can happen when you're 4th row from the floor and in front of one of those piles of cars they need to drive over! I should've worn the ear protectors! :D</div>
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Or they hang out with the neighbor boys and have a snowball fight, with the biggest kid of all, their dad! :)</div>
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Another shot of them rolling down the hill with one of the neighbor boys.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ02gX5aivtLVv4D7DFV7QGHndOJPb-Y77cQCwXlbnD6AfEM2fIuotshC2_-pi4bgNrA6_03WKEU4rgz54zC6atBvL0dYQID1efLHzmXY903y91uS4hiLra2mIONLiUpcfZev0nwQZFTRH/s1600/DSCN9003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ02gX5aivtLVv4D7DFV7QGHndOJPb-Y77cQCwXlbnD6AfEM2fIuotshC2_-pi4bgNrA6_03WKEU4rgz54zC6atBvL0dYQID1efLHzmXY903y91uS4hiLra2mIONLiUpcfZev0nwQZFTRH/s640/DSCN9003.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Or one of their favorite things to do though, is spend time with their Papa, which we try and do once a week. We bring him his favorite cookies that we tweaked and my famous granola bars and he builds paper airplanes with them, or plays with magnets, or takes them to the buffalo farm (which they LOVE).</div>
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Sorry for the terrible cell phone pictures but, I never seem to have a camera in hand when I need one! :) I shared these so that maybe I can dispel one of the myths that homeschooled children are sheltered. My boys are out and about and have a lot of fun too, whether it's with their peers or with their family. So, please if you don't homeschool, please dismiss the thoughts you have about socialization. Our kiddos get out as much as yours do! Homeschool groups have sports leagues, meetups, co-op teaching groups, etc. we don't lock them in a closet, with no sunlight and only let them see us! :D Yeah, okay no one has ever said that to me....yet, I'm sure someone has thought it though! </div>
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Alright, enough of my rambling. If you stumble upon this and homeschool, I'd love to know what you're favorite part of homeschooling is! For now though, I'm getting ready to take on my self-appointed "kitchen helper" and make spaghetti for dinner. Nothing I love more than kiddos in the kitchen! Truly I do, sometimes though, it's like running an obstacle course with him but, he loves to cook and there's something about him drowning in my apron that makes it all worth while! :)</div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-16518453159013996502013-01-17T17:36:00.000-06:002013-01-17T17:36:36.994-06:00Recipe Burglar and Peanut Butter Cup CookiesSo, now that I have a working computer, albeit a dinosaur, I thought it was time to share the lovely (and seemingly the favorites around the neighborhood), peanut butter cup cookies. Well...that was the idea anyway but, when I went to find my lovely recipe the other day, it had vanished along with two other ones! I think my wee "kitchen helper" absconded with my recipe cards! So, I will share my back up recipe from Joan over at <a href="http://www.chocolatechocolateandmore.com/" target="_blank">Chocolate, Chocolate and More</a>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><u>Peanut Butter Cup Cookies</u></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9qwXTxeeCGsmZzqLRTSD9s-tVV-xVDgXGdPNJIhcVcqHlxwivx_4CaEHotoQVwA5CGVbRz5rUL2Yd2HjJWJMCsTgcHBlQg2kwvUyT8HE3Mnvcwyrm1J9ON9KGeguybQLpeo9plAX17V9/s1600/peanut+butter+cup+cookie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9qwXTxeeCGsmZzqLRTSD9s-tVV-xVDgXGdPNJIhcVcqHlxwivx_4CaEHotoQVwA5CGVbRz5rUL2Yd2HjJWJMCsTgcHBlQg2kwvUyT8HE3Mnvcwyrm1J9ON9KGeguybQLpeo9plAX17V9/s640/peanut+butter+cup+cookie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Her recipe makes about 2 to 2 1/2 dozen, if I remember correctly. It has been a while since I made hers but, trust me, they are delicious! I will share the original version of hers and then how I altered the directions a bit. That's just me, always tweaking, changing and modifying, or so I've been told!<br />
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<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
1/2 cup butter<br />
3/4 cup granulated sugar<br />
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract <i>(I add about a full tsp or a smidge more)</i><br />
1 1/4 cup all purpose flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon baking soda<br />
1/4 teaspoon salt<br />
24-30 mini Reese's peanut butter cups<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.<br />
<br />
Cream butter and sugar together. Add in peanut butter and beat again until combined. Add egg and vanilla. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda and salt. Slowly add in flour mixture until they're all combined. Roll into 1 inch balls. <br />
<u>Her directions:</u> Place each ball into the cup of an ungreased mini muffin tin.<br />
<i><u>What I did:</u> I made 2 inch balls in a regular ungreased muffin tin! </i><br />
<br />
Bake for 12-14 minutes.<br />
<i><u>What I did:</u> Bake for allotted time or until just barely turning golden and then removed from the oven. They will look almost undercooked but, keep in mind they will continue cooking as they sit there.</i><br />
<u><br /></u>
<u>Her directions:</u> Immediately after removing muffin tin from oven, press one Reese's cup into the center of each cookie.<br />
<i><u>What I did:</u> I inserted Reeses mini PB cups. I let them cool only for anywhere from 2-4 minutes to the aforementioned 10 minutes depending upon how "done" they looked when I removed them. (In other words, how distracted I got before I removed them from the oven! lol)</i><br />
She had a great notation to put the Reeses in the freezer about 20 -30 minutes prior to start and it is a great tip but, if you don't do this, it's not the end of the world. It just makes things easier. Also another tip I remember was that if you were having difficulty removing them, to use a butter knife to remove them. I believe that is where I got the idea to use it from.<br />
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Anyway, either way you make them, they are amazingly delicious. Albeit not diabetic friendly or probably not really healthy but, I can tell you that they are a crowd pleaser. I almost always have to make a double or triple batch...which I don't recommend! It's harder to mix completely the more ingredients you have in one bowl! They're super good though, I am NOT a peanut butter fan at all, never have been and I would make and eat these without the peanut butter cups! Yes, oh yes, it's that good!<br />
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Hope you enjoyed her recipe and/or my take on it. If you do, pop by her page, which I've linked above and check out her other goodies! Now, off to find the kitchen helper's hidy holes...I'm not sure I'll ever find them all until he's grown and gone! :)<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-67085962406584615682012-12-21T08:36:00.001-06:002012-12-21T08:44:31.669-06:00Double Mint Mocha Fudge Brownies<br />
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First of all, Happy Holidays to
everyone! :) We're winding down here, but I still have a LOT to do!
Most of my holiday orders are done and shipped out, just a few more
goodies to take care of and I'll be done! </div>
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<br />
Anyway, before I get cracking, I
wanted to share this so simple recipe. So, you can wow your family
and friends too. I promise it's so easy and it will literally take
just a few minutes to put together. </div>
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<u><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Double Mint Mocha Fudge Brownies</b></span></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGR4k0ee33GvFd7ZvMIU-oC1jSeMk1fKvXCUNB-5As4OCx0sfeDjB0gl4aNvMytSyxEiUaRmDcqKiwZ_864LY2cNT8kmv-dYdFy2Bz3lWW_1_PyRWTePjetFdpGM0bSh01y3R7Mi-9aFc/s1600/1212224523_01.jpg"><img align="BOTTOM" border="0" height="640" name="graphics1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaGR4k0ee33GvFd7ZvMIU-oC1jSeMk1fKvXCUNB-5As4OCx0sfeDjB0gl4aNvMytSyxEiUaRmDcqKiwZ_864LY2cNT8kmv-dYdFy2Bz3lWW_1_PyRWTePjetFdpGM0bSh01y3R7Mi-9aFc/s640/1212224523_01.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<u>Ingredients:</u> </div>
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1 box of Pillsbury Mocha Fudge Brownies</div>
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Peppermint extract</div>
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A bag of York Peppermint Patties</div>
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A bag of Andes Mint baking chips (or
you can a package and chop them yourself)</div>
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<br />
*You could also a tiny bit of
instant espresso powder if you want a bit stronger coffee flavor</div>
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<u>Directions:</u></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">
Make the brownies according to the
package directions. At the end add about 1 tsp to 1 1/2 tsp of
peppermint extract, depending upon your taste. Then add about a
quarter to half the bag of the Andes mint baking chips. Mix together
until just combined. </div>
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<br />
Pour half of your mix into your
baking dish, only half! Then lay out your peppermint patties over the
top of the mix. You can make any pattern you wish to do, I myself am
a mint lover, so I literally didn't leave any space between the
patties.<br />
<br />
When you're done, top with the rest of the brownie
mix and bake according to the directions. Once you've removed it from
the oven, sprinkle some more Andes mint baking chips and holiday
appropriate sprinkles over the top. The heat will help melt and keep
them in place. How much mint chips and sprinkles, is entirely your call. You could even frost it and then add these but, these brownies
are so rich and delicious I've found that they never needed
frosting. </div>
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I hope you enjoy this easy go to
recipe to make in a pinch for the family. From our house to yours,
may your holidays be filled with love, laughter and years of
memories!</div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></span></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-64295473179013196142012-12-11T09:51:00.000-06:002012-12-21T08:38:27.260-06:00Double Chocolate, Marshmallow Crackle Cookies<br />
So, I know I don't post much to the blog anymore. Just don't have a lot of time but, as you know, I do my best to keep that FB page going! :) This one though just could not be shared in a note on my page, so you're not dreaming, I'm actually posting something on the blog! lol<br />
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Christmas to me or any holiday around this time of year is a big deal to me. I love them. To me it's more about family than who has what. I still love to drive around more than the boys do to look at lights and while I was lucky this year to be able to find a great sale at a house and bring in a lot more decorations, I usually can't afford to do a whole lot. The one tradition that holds true though, is that every year, I bake dozens upon dozens of goodies for friend, family and neighbors. Including the ladies out at my mom's retirement center!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwC8v7od2DOJlolZUDp4zpjX6ranLLRY-AL-AXtiqC6ODKs6fX4lYxvHFoZqP_CPcnAPYfaeXmS4WM7EtCykV2xWT697b0WWnC2PY8LOTXWIu8riAXTI8Ryi00ZDbLmqnvpk9R0PnrMF2/s1600/double+choc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggwC8v7od2DOJlolZUDp4zpjX6ranLLRY-AL-AXtiqC6ODKs6fX4lYxvHFoZqP_CPcnAPYfaeXmS4WM7EtCykV2xWT697b0WWnC2PY8LOTXWIu8riAXTI8Ryi00ZDbLmqnvpk9R0PnrMF2/s640/double+choc.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Double Chocolate Marshmallow Crackle Cookies</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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This recipe was given to me by a friend and I sort of adapted it a bit. So, I hope you enjoy it and unlike me, have fresh baking soda to work with! :)</div>
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<u>Ingredients:</u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3 cps of flour</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2/3 cp of unsweetened cocoa powder</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/2 tsp of baking soda</div>
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1 cp white sugar</div>
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1cp of brown sugar, packed</div>
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1 cp salted butter, softened</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 lrg eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1/2 tsp of salt</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2 tsp vanilla</div>
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2 cps of semisweet chocolate chips </div>
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8 oz. of mini marshmallows, frozen</div>
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**My notes: </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
For some reason, every now and again, this recipe mix ends up a little drier than it should be. I have no idea why but, all I do is either add another egg or at least 1/4 cp of water. I am unsure the exact measurements because as Rachel Ray always says, I "eyeballed it". And the last adaptation is that I always put more vanilla than the recipe calls for, so probably about another half to full tsp of vanilla went in. These will make it a much richer, drier cookie so if you find it drying out on you, because a few times I've had this problem, just add that water a little at a time.<br />
For more of a "crackle" cookie effect, add a little less baking soda, and the cookie will not rise as big. Be careful though, because too little and you'll have a puddle of a cookie on your hands! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You'll need a small bowl or cup of powdered sugar to roll your cookie balls around in. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Also keep those marshmallows frozen until just the moment you need them! </div>
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<u>Directions: </u></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In one bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, soda and cocoa powder, whisk and set aside.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In a larger bowl blend sugars, and butter until you get a sort of grainy paste. Then add your eggs and vanilla and beat until well combined.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Slowly add in your dry mix and chocolate chip and blend until just combined. DO NOT OVERMIX! This mix will be very stiff. So, don't panic. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Grab abt. 4 - 5 marshmallows, though you can do less if you prefer, and take a nice rounded tbs of dough and wrap it around the marshmallows. No worries if you end up making them larger than the "normal" sized cookies because, they still turn out absolutely rich and delicious! </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Once you have your marshmallows covered by your cookie ball, roughly about 2 inches in diameter, just drop them in your bowl of powdered sugar and shake them around a bit, until they are nice and covered. Then you'll place them on an ungreased cookie sheet. Parchment paper or even that non-stick foil works just as nicely. Make sure that they are roughly about 2 inches or so apart. and bake about 8 - 10 minutes. Again, remember your altitude does affect baking time. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When your time is up, remove and let them sit on that pan for about 2 minutes before you remove to your cookie wrack or cool, flat surface. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here is where I stress something about baking or even cooking in general. If you remove something from the heat but, let it sit in the pan, or in this case on the cookie sheet, keep in mind that it is still cooking! So, don't hesitate when you go to pull them out and they look slightly under cooked in the center or even a little light in color - this goes for all cookies too. So, if you leave them on the sheet, they will continue to bake just sitting there. If you were to leave them in the oven until all golden brown, you'll have over cooked them. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Also, my last words of advice before I tell you to dive in, TEST this recipe out before the day you want to give it to someone! You'll learn what works and what doesn't, you can take out some cocoa powder or add the extra moisture, etc. if you have a practice run before you serve it to someone. </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Lastly, I do not have the calories, or carbs in this cookie for us diabetics but, with the load of cocoa powder, chocolate chips and flour in this my advice would be to wait for the holiday and then if you've been good, you could treat yourself to JUST 1 SINGLE cookie! lol </div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
Hope you enjoy these, with a nice cup of mint tea, surrounded by family and friends! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Happy Holidays! </div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-70054331976301023922012-09-15T11:27:00.001-05:002012-09-15T11:30:07.396-05:00Thank You! Alright so for those of you that used to follow this blog page regularly, you may have noticed that I've been on and off for a while now. Life has gone insane around me and I'm barely hanging on some days! For those of you who don't know, my mother and I helped remove custody of my nephews from my little sis until she can get some help. I like to say she fell into the family curse. One grandparent on each side of my family, along with both my mother and father were alcoholics. So, it was bound to hit one of us I suppose. Out of four of my mother's kiddos, two of us are still on the straight and narrow. Out of my father's 3 girls, there are still 2 of us, still doing good. :) So, I suppose things aren't too awful. Anyway, it's been hard, it is hard but, we're all hanging in there.<br />
<br />
Another reason I haven't been on much is because between a month in a cast from tearing all of my ligaments, some completely from my bone, and then a month learning to walk. I got a tad behind in homeschool preps. Yes, I homeschool my children, well just one kiddo really. When I began my preps though, I got whooping cough from the only whooping cough vaccinated nephew! Nice huh? Spent a month sicker than a dog, in and out of the hospital and that my friends, was THE best thing that has ever happened to me!<br />
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If you've followed this blog all the way through, once upon a time, I wrote a piece on how to loose some weight. I did so because I had gone from 300+ lbs. to just under 200lbs. I did it several ways but, mainly I was in the gym 6 days a week, back when I could afford to go. I was cross training and I loved it. I am one of those weird people who loves the morning after pain! Lets me know I have done something, you know? Anyway, almost 3yrs ago, I stopped going to the gym and my money had to go towards children's diet changes, new therapy ideas (i.e. occupational, physical and speech therapy at home), homeschool supplies, etc. I started eating the way I had prior to my oldest son being born and that's when it began. I started to feel the way I did before my youngest son was born and lost the motivation to go to the gym flat out!
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXkGQPUuwE9adi2fIlt60Q4fn8HVlltjrLi2ohKbS4nAB3IumpSZNJXoTLasrYTfF3caKFrsVR-Mcg4-T6HL7T05x6v3tsQRK4fjPFA5LzlQCyNieNFIuRWdKT7Y2hDozTktXInBm7-wL/s1600/diabetes_symptoms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXkGQPUuwE9adi2fIlt60Q4fn8HVlltjrLi2ohKbS4nAB3IumpSZNJXoTLasrYTfF3caKFrsVR-Mcg4-T6HL7T05x6v3tsQRK4fjPFA5LzlQCyNieNFIuRWdKT7Y2hDozTktXInBm7-wL/s640/diabetes_symptoms.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How did I feel before my son was born? Almost 2yrs before he was born, I noticed I suddenly felt tired all the time, I began to loose my hair, I felt depressed almost but, it wasn't that kind of thing right away, I just didn't want to go out anywhere. I began to have panic attacks, I would have horrible mood swings, I was getting sick all the time, etc. I could go on and on but, I will spare you instead and tell you that what it amounted to was metabolic disorder.<br />
<br />
What is metabolic disorder? Here's a definition from <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/metabolicdisorders.html" target="_blank">Medline Plus</a>:<br />
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
Metabolism is the process your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat. Food is made up of proteins, carbohydrates and fats. Chemicals in your digestive system break the food parts down into sugars and acids, your body's fuel. Your body can use this fuel right away, or it can store the energy in your body tissues, such as your liver, muscles and body fat.</div>
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A metabolic disorder occurs when abnormal chemical reactions in your body disrupt this process. When this happens, you might have too much of some substances or too little of other ones that you need to stay healthy.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'Lucida Grande', Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
You can develop a metabolic disorder when some organs, such as your liver or pancreas, become diseased or do not function normally. <a href="http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/diabetes.html" name="noreveal" style="color: #990066; outline: none;">Diabetes</a> is an example.</div>
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So essentially, your body just kind of begins to loose it! When I landed in the hospital, my liver enzymes were high, my liver was even swollen! My white count was high, I had apparently had a UTI for some time and had been unaware of it. They took an A1c test and mine was something like 8.7. An A1c test is a blood test where they can determine a 3 month average for your blood sugars. Mine averaged out to something like 195. Which is high but, not too bad. Truthfully the only reason mine was so low is because I often skipped breakfast and would not eat until I was ready to pass out. In the hospital my blood sugars never dropped below 250 on my own the first week my sugars were in the 300s!!<br />
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It's been almost a month now and my sugars are still higher in the mornings than they'd like sometimes but, not too bad now overall. To date, (starting from 2 weeks ago) since starting diet and mild exercise since I have high triglycerides too, I've lost 10lbs! Ready to start pushing myself now and take on some more challenging things. Maybe start doing beginners steps towards how I used to exercise. I will say that I am not one for medications, I think we are a nation hooked on the pharmaceutical industry but, I also know that sometimes, things need to be done right now until you can get where you need to be. Case in point, I have one ADHD kid on meds and one not. Though to be fair, the one on meds, has more than just ADHD and I have cut his meds in half by a better diet, the other one is just the text book sensory processing disorder, auditory processing, ADHD kiddo...enough to loose 10lbs in a day if you follow him around! Anyway, I did some of this with the blood sugars and triglycerides with medications. I only take two right now, and if I can help it that will be all and hopefully, I can get rid of one of those in time. :) I'd like to be rid of both but, because of genetics and the proof of having gestational diabetes twice, the doc says short of a miracle, I'll be on the diabetes meds for life. I was heartbroken but, so be it. I did this to myself and now I must pay the piper. In the mean time I can do what I need to do to get back on the right track for myself and for my boys. One because they need me here and two because of genetics and my having had gestational diabetes, they are now doubly at risk to get it as well. I wish they had told me then that something like half of women with gestational diabetes will go on to get it within 5 - 15yrs after the birth of their child, would've saved me a lot of issues!
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So, now I wear socks all the time, no more barefoot and that was like a death in the family for me! :) I love going barefoot. I take better care of me teeth, always have glucose tablets with me just in case, I carry my diabetic pouch with lancets, strips, logbook, etc. and you bet I carry a calorie/carb/fat counter book! Thank goodness for those because I am not always home when I need to eat. The one my dietitian gave me is called, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/CalorieKing-Calorie-Carbohydrate-Counter-2012/dp/1930448368/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347726257&sr=1-1&keywords=calorie+king" target="_blank">The Calorie King: Calorie Fat & Carbohydrate Counter 2012</a>. The website is <a href="http://www.calorieking.com/" target="_blank">here</a> if you'd like to check that out as well. No, I was not asked to endorse that place nor book, it is simply the one I use but, I know that there are plenty of sites and books out there if you look. So, if you see a lot more healthy posts, or more posts about diabetes. This is why!<br />
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Anyway, I'm almost back up to perkily annoying on a daily basis. My neighbors once again like me, though they look at me as if I have two heads! :) It's been a HARD summer to say the least but, I've learned a lot and am getting more together and organized, so look out and thanks for hanging with me so far! You guys are really just a bunch of amazing individuals! I hope you know that and how much I've appreciated your support!<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background-color: transparent; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 0px !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-90038539161508914342012-08-26T11:36:00.000-05:002012-08-26T11:36:48.780-05:00Where's Waldo? Still here....barely! :)I haven't posted in a long while but, have tried to keep the Facebook page active as much as I could. With trouble going on with my sister and trying to keep her from getting custody until she gets help, and then the whole month in a cast plus month of physical therapy and then getting the whooping cough thing, it's been a little hard.<br />
The whooping cough thing was and still is probably the single worst experience I've had getting sick period. Most adults it barely phases but, me it dang near landed me in the hospital for a lengthy stay. I begged to be let out under strict orders of bed rest and the promise that my mother would be with me 24/7 to care and look after my boys so I could rest. Then the hospital staff went to work on why a month had past and the cough and lung congestion was bad. There is where my life will forever change.<br /><br />First let me start off by saying it has been a rough decision on whether to share all of this with you. It is personal and there are a lot of misconceptions associated with this. I still hesitate to tell some folks because of this but, I tell my boys never be ashamed of who you are, no matter what tic, what you can or cannot do, what you can or cannot hear, what you comprehend or what you have don't know. Embrace what makes you, you and then make the world accept you or leave. It will be their loss for not having known you. So, here I go about to tell you all something that overall is no big thing but, is personal for me, for some reason.<br />
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I want to premise this though by saying two things though. One, I have been exceptionally tired the last few years. If you knew me personally, I'm one of those annoying morning people, I sing and dance in the middle of the store, for my boys and I don't care who is looking. I am annoying bubbly and there is always a silver lining. Over the last few years though, it would take everything I had to get up and clean or make meals. I was tired all the time, to the point I began to wonder if I was depressed. Even blogging and trying to keep FB up was beginning to get harder. The more stress I was under the worse I felt too. I used to workout vigorously 6 days a week - yes, one of those annoyingly perky people in the gym at 5am! :P If I couldn't afford the gym, I would work out 4x a day at home in 15 - 20 min. increments. I love it but, as I grew more tired, I lost the motivation to do anything, including walking.<br /><br />Secondly, I had two pregnancies, both were different. One more difficult than the other but both similar in that I had gestational diabetes. I was told the first time that there would be a chance that I may get diabetes later in life, the first time. The second pregnancy I was told that having gestational diabetes meant that I would hands down, no bones about it, get diabetes at one point in my life. I was thinking, that like most of the population not until my 50s, 60s or 70s. What I have learned in this last week is that having it guaranteed I'd be diabetic within 5 - 10 yrs of the very first time I had it....my oldest son is almost 8yrs old.<br /><br />The reason I could not shake the whooping cough and am still fighting it, you guessed it I am diabetic. It's not the end of world really by a long shot but, the misconception I've faced in the last week alone is a bit disheartening. Because of my lack of energy, yes, I have put on a bit of weight and if you know anything about diabetes, high blood sugars are really not conducive in loosing weight, they're very good at adding those extra pounds though. So, to hear family members say, well you're diabetic because, you've put on weight is a tad annoying, not to mention a bit hurtful. It's true I've put on weight but, not for trying hard not too.<br /><br />Talking to the doc, the diabetic nurse and the dietitian, they pulled my records from the last 5 yrs at least. What they found was that I've been spilling sugars in my urine at high levels for years now and that NO ONE told me! What they told me was devastating to me. That I would have to go on medications along with the diet to control my sugars. That they were going to start me on a small dose and in a week or two raise my dosage. Confident in my ability to control my sugars with my diet, as I had done it twice before, I asked him if I got it under control could I go off of the meds. He knows me well enough to know that I prefer to do things on my own, not even taking an Ibuprofen unless I can't deal with the pain. He grabbed my hands and told me that because I had had gestational diabetes, there was most likely no way that I could ever go off of meds. They could reduce the dosage but, in all likely hood, short of a miracle, I would take meds for the rest of life.<br /><br />Alright, this is not a death sentence, I know this but, if you knew how I am, this was awful to hear. I actually broke down in tears. :P So, between the meds that I actually begged for to help with the pain of torn, stretched and ripped muscles in my back and sides, I've spent the week trying to quickly master the diet I knew how to do once before only with a lot more restrictions. It's been a little harder than I remember. lol I can hit the carb count but, way overshoot the fat, or vice versa. It's been worth it though, a few days in and I have a lot more energy than I have in years. Though that comes and goes. I have even celebrated not seeing a sugar level past 300 for at least a couple of days now and today I awoke to my first "fasting" level below 200! It was barely below but, it was a great feeling to see a 1 in that spot instead of a 2!<br /><br />I am telling you all of this because well, I don't want you to think I've abandon you. I'm a little tired from the meds they have given to help the muscles and the ups and downs of blood sugar, plus that medication have made me a little up and down as well! :) The good news is that so far, no kidney damage, circulation is good, and though my eyes are of concern, and will be checked once my sugars come down to a more stable, lower level, Which brings me to a third point, please don't tell someone that if they just loose a few pounds they're be fine or that because they're overweight, that is why they're diabetic. While this may hold true for some people it is not always the case. Like in mine, I got it because of genetics and because I had it unknowingly, I then put on the weight. The weight wasn't the cause of it. So, please be mindful of what you say and maybe learn a bit about it before you open your mouth.<br /><br />Thirdly, though my friend Jessie never reads my blog, I want to thank her for all of her support through this. She has Type 1 Diabetes. Still she had 3 kids, even though she wasn't suppose to. She is on an insulin pump and has lost an eye even but, despite it all, she coached me through both pregnancies and now is helping me acclimate to being diabetic for life. She's a rock star! Also, my momma, who does read this sometimes. At 66yrs old, she dropped everything to come and take care of 2 special needs boys who even on ADHD meds and diet can run rings around someone half her age. Who is also type 2 and has agreed to go on this journey with me, eating right and exercising again. Which is a big deal for her. I really hope that you all have this kind of support in your lives and I want to thank you all for being here waiting on me. As soon as my muscles heal a bit better, the cough ceases to be so severe, I'll be back and better than ever!<br /><br />Hugs to all of you.<br /><br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-30806594469690537592012-07-11T14:00:00.001-05:002012-07-11T14:31:08.685-05:00Cool Summer RefreshmentThanks for hanging with me while this whole family thing gets sorted out. It's been a rough go of things lately and it's not over yet. Anyway, onto cheerier subjects....well sort of.<br />
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Reaching midsummer almost, all I can think of is when does fall get here?! The heat wave and drought that has stretched across a lot of the U.S. has made a lot of us think that. Triple digit numbers for the highs of the days and days and days of it....I hate to say it but, I'm ready for snow! And we all can't do this...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoy36nVZhOl4r_-NcRMfylsjdtv9Mx4BNdTGs-3mqwtYKJy5FnhTmRTdAjG1qEZPzim1su4AVM7V31fZn8O9pMlV_JlQIsvnCh9sCof73ka2z2O5z5C6UIiusKLs2kH-UyJ0elWMEJ3-ug/s1600/staying+cool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoy36nVZhOl4r_-NcRMfylsjdtv9Mx4BNdTGs-3mqwtYKJy5FnhTmRTdAjG1qEZPzim1su4AVM7V31fZn8O9pMlV_JlQIsvnCh9sCof73ka2z2O5z5C6UIiusKLs2kH-UyJ0elWMEJ3-ug/s640/staying+cool.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Well, we could but, for some of us (me) it wouldn't be as cute as this!</div>
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Anyway, though we are blessed to have air here, when the power is going on and off...that's a whole other story, all I can think of, is ways to keep my boys hydrated and cool. So, here are some things that I have found across the internet and have even tried a few goodies myself. Some of these may contain food allergens, though most will not. You can always substitute ingredients in them though!<br />
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So, first off when we all think of our childhood days, lazing by the pool, we think of popsicles. Here are 3 treats that are not only delicious, but nice and healthy that are sure to cool you down. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JGAjWRG8O_29BIJe8xJLGdlAAZLoVtv3a1CPU4mB2kz15-PrUig506oCdisi0JelyHnkmb_yeWVXnBu1o6i9fVszsJE7gjRXBlVD2ZxKtRppM4QjJCW6d3NH6Lzn5a8Bvw8I-6nEq3ne/s1600/Sugar+Free+Banana+Popsicle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JGAjWRG8O_29BIJe8xJLGdlAAZLoVtv3a1CPU4mB2kz15-PrUig506oCdisi0JelyHnkmb_yeWVXnBu1o6i9fVszsJE7gjRXBlVD2ZxKtRppM4QjJCW6d3NH6Lzn5a8Bvw8I-6nEq3ne/s640/Sugar+Free+Banana+Popsicle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
This beauty is a <a href="http://thebubblybean.blogspot.com/2012/06/sugar-free-banana-popsicles.html" target="_blank">Sugar Free Banana Popsicle</a> from The Bubble Bean blog. The only allergen that I could think of in here was strawberries but, she says you can use cherries as well. I've never outright heard of a banana allergy but, as a latex allergic individual, you can imagine I avoid them. Still, this looks delicious!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosML8ffGXc6T0T-nzD8SOe2lnfIupKULBDAkc22c8c1oqs0ZdB4OtA69rgSjD4KAOXQ2C7GP9k3rZ9N5WyRlVeRkYFuVJEBeuQiFb5BPE1GlqDB9ieHNJv-DihIeAHFAQdajsDWv6aZyl/s1600/Banana+Straw+popsicle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosML8ffGXc6T0T-nzD8SOe2lnfIupKULBDAkc22c8c1oqs0ZdB4OtA69rgSjD4KAOXQ2C7GP9k3rZ9N5WyRlVeRkYFuVJEBeuQiFb5BPE1GlqDB9ieHNJv-DihIeAHFAQdajsDWv6aZyl/s640/Banana+Straw+popsicle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Another yummy looking popsicle, is the all natural <a href="http://allergyfree.wordpress.com/tag/allergy-free-popsicles/" target="_blank">Strawberry Banana Popsicle</a>. I imagine if your child is allergic to strawberries, you could again use cherries.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNutBon0giFf2x2dbv4DOskYGzF0IxUvzBtIoyol21Hthmu-2FSTIjp4zpNL0HUd2P1ZU4jfDRUPyLrNwcY-o6O1aQ2jZ0QCfj8jBo-egFXyK-eexxcnxz9VbwcPGr6BBkdmtwZk4AULVy/s1600/Herbal+popsicle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNutBon0giFf2x2dbv4DOskYGzF0IxUvzBtIoyol21Hthmu-2FSTIjp4zpNL0HUd2P1ZU4jfDRUPyLrNwcY-o6O1aQ2jZ0QCfj8jBo-egFXyK-eexxcnxz9VbwcPGr6BBkdmtwZk4AULVy/s640/Herbal+popsicle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And of course I would be remiss if I didn't share Laurie's goody! Her <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/05/how-to-make-herbal-popsicles-a-recipe/" target="_blank">High-C Herbal Pop</a> is perfect for my herbal minded folk out there!<br />
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Popsicles not your thing? How about smoothies to keep you refreshed and hydrated? Here are 3 that you or your kiddos are sure to love.<br />
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On Laurie's heels, it's only fitting to share this <a href="http://cookitallergyfree.com/blog/2010/05/promises-of-summer-smoothies-and-kefir/" target="_blank">Berry Green Smoothie</a>, complete with Kefir.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4KIba8HtaYQ2TEaxCY7YG9IvK4d6X64SMtvsepw8wRy47NS2SGdKktLyJXYW_HepSM0JUfmlPWy_-B0kt0Ro42MgHyKr6AMp36a_qn7UIwlrKJ457De8caJIkN6UaTIjzYRtGC8_z4MBj/s1600/Green+Berry+Smoothie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="568" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4KIba8HtaYQ2TEaxCY7YG9IvK4d6X64SMtvsepw8wRy47NS2SGdKktLyJXYW_HepSM0JUfmlPWy_-B0kt0Ro42MgHyKr6AMp36a_qn7UIwlrKJ457De8caJIkN6UaTIjzYRtGC8_z4MBj/s640/Green+Berry+Smoothie.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This one, <a href="http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2007/06/blueberry-smoothie-veganluscious.html" target="_blank">Veganluscious Blueberry Smoothie</a>, is perfect for my little guy because it doesn't involve strawberries and he's a blueberry junkie! He asks for blueberries with everything. It's also from the Gluten Free Goddess so you know it's good! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfxO8TilYRAMJG0FT5WscZwlLeQj-ESKM7D__MlfrBd6OUwztgRDrnxN17SwELqCW4hgG1KF_o_klccb98E0I5uoqCTMEE20c93vrwLbd6jcbMs0UqDCS8gGf9glh7i9ydwd45UHudgGl/s1600/Blueberry_Smoothie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOfxO8TilYRAMJG0FT5WscZwlLeQj-ESKM7D__MlfrBd6OUwztgRDrnxN17SwELqCW4hgG1KF_o_klccb98E0I5uoqCTMEE20c93vrwLbd6jcbMs0UqDCS8gGf9glh7i9ydwd45UHudgGl/s640/Blueberry_Smoothie.jpg" width="446" /></a></div>
Another good one but, I can never seem to get a picture of it before my little minion drinks it all is Go Dairy Free's <a href="http://www.godairyfree.org/Recipes/Breakfast/Berry-Banana-Breakfast-Smoothie-Vegan-Gluten-Free-Soy-Free.html" target="_blank">Berry Banana Breakfast Smoothy</a>. We don't always use the spinach. Or even the cinnamon and a lot of the time, I don't have Flax on hand so you guessed it, we go without that as well! It's still amazingly delicious no matter how it's made!<br />
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Now onto the most overlooked idea of all....flavored WATER! No sugars, no preservatives, no chemicals, actual nutritious fruit and good old H2O.<br />
This one from <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/Flavored_Water" target="_blank">The Yummy Life</a>, is the one being passed all around Pinterest. The article is full of great ideas Raspberry Lime to All Citrus water. Tons of good info and ideas here for you.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rA-7Fjc9y6Z3u4HYsVSQt4CkorjhFzXDett4dahisdMR4VDzsB_NHLeZx5iKMbziaX296c50lKuFm6sPLFKoMFbTnd7KZCvnQYmufdsNFC40YWRYHFJGerRYlJkdkm4YT86cKCyJahzW/s1600/Flavored+Water+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5rA-7Fjc9y6Z3u4HYsVSQt4CkorjhFzXDett4dahisdMR4VDzsB_NHLeZx5iKMbziaX296c50lKuFm6sPLFKoMFbTnd7KZCvnQYmufdsNFC40YWRYHFJGerRYlJkdkm4YT86cKCyJahzW/s640/Flavored+Water+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.suesnutritionbuzz.com/2012/05/17/make-your-own-vitamin-mineral-water-drink-up/" target="_blank">Sue's Nutrition Buzz </a>also has a fantastic post on flavored water. Including how to add other nutrients or vitamins if you choose to do so.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsh2EPHQK1R7anaG56tDpCSm4r7wpfKOtcxdLBA6r0I_emJUhzEgHzVFKB8HRwSdbWhyphenhyphenMfjMP9wYMeiYLwumA8UDJ_ojRK1zoorWpmuMGRNnfkAJXoWuZ7sot7gQukkjtgVaKZSzYJsdY/s1600/flavored-water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFsh2EPHQK1R7anaG56tDpCSm4r7wpfKOtcxdLBA6r0I_emJUhzEgHzVFKB8HRwSdbWhyphenhyphenMfjMP9wYMeiYLwumA8UDJ_ojRK1zoorWpmuMGRNnfkAJXoWuZ7sot7gQukkjtgVaKZSzYJsdY/s640/flavored-water.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Another great idea I nabbed from my friend Ida's page! Who got it from her friend Laura's FB page. :P</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1alZ71EITZc-Pgd2rMxuzd8lCHHhZh9feR8eSe08RmOhi6gYAOrE61pLhv3bNQNJ-9HgWxuF_rG3uhxg4gNzv-L4WhTV-bVm1opa7Dde2V17-7DsHQ1LdxE9-1cF7QRltpDQKgP_Pwcn/s1600/563322_10150791346879813_652363636_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1alZ71EITZc-Pgd2rMxuzd8lCHHhZh9feR8eSe08RmOhi6gYAOrE61pLhv3bNQNJ-9HgWxuF_rG3uhxg4gNzv-L4WhTV-bVm1opa7Dde2V17-7DsHQ1LdxE9-1cF7QRltpDQKgP_Pwcn/s640/563322_10150791346879813_652363636_n.jpg" width="448" /></a></div>
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FRUIT WATER: 1 each of the following fruits: apple, lemon, orange, pear, 4 large strawberries, a handful of raspberries, a handful of mint leaves, 1 half-gallon of water. Cut large slices or thin wedges of each fruit; place them in a large glass pitcher and add water. Refrigerate 2 hours and serve in tall glasses for a delicious and refreshing drink!</div>
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If these don't entice you in the least bit...I'm afraid the unbearable heat has taken it's toll on your brain already and the only remedy is to enjoy one of these tasty treats! So, sit back with a glass of flavored water, a popsicle or smoothie of your choice with a million fans blowing on you and enjoy the summer sun....while you dream of a cooler fall! </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
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<br />JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-51429705258500015442012-05-22T11:24:00.002-05:002012-05-22T11:24:31.340-05:00Not Your Typical Child Tuesday #7Again, to all of you that follow my FB page, thanks for being so supportive and hanging on while my family went through this stressful time. It's not over yet but, at least we have respite for a couple of months! Anyway, I can't think of better way to kick back into blog mode than another "Not Your Typical Child Tuesday"! :)<br /><br />If you couldn't guess by last weeks post, I am going to talk about Tourette Syndrome today. If you think you know all about it and it's not in your life, then you don't know a thing! For example, the stereotypical misconception of TS is that you have coprolalia (yelling curse words) is actually rare in people with TS and that the percentage of people with coprolalia is something like LESS than 10%?! Did you also know that even though when TV shows or news shows mention TS, we typically think of adults but, that a majority of people with TS are children?!<br /><br />Tourette Syndrome affects something between 1 and 10 students per 1000. Which sounds like pretty good odds your child or family won't have it but, since my son has been diagnosed, I actually see a lot of people that I can honestly say would fit the diagnostic criteria for having TS and they don't know they have it! TS can be so mild that a varying amount of adults have had it a majority of their life and not know it nor have their 'tics' get fully noticed by family or the public or they get misdiagnosed even. In fact, most females with TS will often get diagnosed with OCD!<br /><br />TS affects boys 3x more often than girls and is prevalent in the Caucasian population versus any other. There are some genetic components as well in developing TS. It has been known to run in families but, a lot of the time, it appears for no reason. There are certain familial traits that often seem to be present in families though that many a researcher finds interesting when TS finally manifests. For example, OCD is hugely prevalent in families of a child with TS. Though again, it's not always that way but, a large enough number of things like this seem to happen and it has caught researchers' attention. Another main focus is the dopamine and serotonin levels and receptors in the brain. The theories go that either the receptors are hypersensitive or that the person with TS over or under produces those chemicals in the brain. They have even found that mutations involving the SLITRK1 gene have been identified in a small number of people with Tourette syndrome. SLITRK is responsible for providing instructions for making a protein that is active in the brain. They believe that the SLITRK1 protein might plays a role in the development of nerve cells, including the growth of specialized extensions (axons and dendrites) that allow each nerve cell to communicate with nearby cells. It is unclear how mutations in the SLITRK1 gene can lead to this disorder.<br />
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So, what do we take from this? TS is a neurobiological disorder that usually presents with tics. Tics being involuntary, rapid, repetitive movements or vocal outburts. Tics will wax and wane but, be present for at least one year. Tics often change and go away or change and reappear. For example, they may have a blinking tic that stays with them and a sniffing tic that changes to a humming, etc. Some tics reappear intermittently and others may only appear once. There is no rhyme or reason for it. Tics vary from person to person in severity and duration. Some kids may have days, weeks or months with no outright noticeable tics, while others will never have a tic free day. Some kiddos may have severe enough TS on an upswing that they cannot walk, talk, or eat normal! For some other kiddos that severity of tics may be an everyday thing!<br />
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Children with TS typically have a normal range of IQs, meaning just like the normal nuero-typical children, they have a normal intelligence and some have high IQs. They are in every way as normal as your son, your daughter or you neighbor's children. They may have other issues though, called comorbid disorders, like ADHD, OCD, Sensory Processing Disorder, ODD, Asperger's, etc. It is these accompanying disorders that often times gives the child some trouble, be it with school, attention, behavior, etc. To make matters worse, children and adults with TS often times have episodes we as parents typically call rages. These are never pleasant for anyone involved. They often times on an upswing or if their TS is severe, are exhausted by their constant body motion and it's painful. As a parent, there is nothing more painful than to watch on in helplessness.<br /><br />There is so much more to say on TS but, I will save it for another post! :)<br /><br />Thanks again for joining me for another Not Your Typical Child Tuesday and thanks again for hanging with me while we went through this difficult time in our family. Your support was seriously amazing!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-26244395398364859212012-05-15T09:00:00.000-05:002012-05-15T13:17:19.430-05:00Not Your Typical Child #6This Not Your Typical Child Tuesday is another one that is personal to our home. Probably THE most personal one for me to share yet. Mainly because of the HUGE misconceptions associated with this disorder and the obstacles that my son will have to overcome. It is the one thing that still feels very raw on a bad day, as many a mother of a child with TS will agree. Today begins a month long awareness campaign for Tourette Syndrome Awareness in the U.S. So today, we begin to tackle Tourette Syndrome.<br />
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I can't really talk about Tourette Syndrome without introducing you to one of the loves of my life, my son DW. So, instead of giving you the stone cold facts and statistics, I will show you the personal side to TS in my life today. Please take a moment and get to know my son.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/o2REpUhYimE?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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Here's his little brother's video he helped make dedicated to his big brother: </div>
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Before you judge, before you joke, make sure you know what you're talking about first. These are just two of the faces affected by TS. There are millions more faces just like this affected by it. Take some time this month to get to know more about TS and destroy the myths and stigma that surrounds it.</div>
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Thanks for joining me again for another Not Your Typical Child Tuesday!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-12036339314755212422012-05-04T10:37:00.003-05:002012-05-04T10:39:36.372-05:00Favorite Blog Friday #5<div style="text-align: center;">
This week's favorite blog Friday is, <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">The Morristribe</span></a>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMOnzhZAW0oxJmqdxOtqx4Ax8BiARPAokelgHQcJL-6A_dv4K136dfb4vtHg_mWwXfN-Ab-c2-6XFgsCvXJ0_pkUrYtLwJveLxZfDfUgtOOWWYWAAGcKjLI6FiuoP32ztkESN8D2txF6k/s1600/The+Morristribe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxMOnzhZAW0oxJmqdxOtqx4Ax8BiARPAokelgHQcJL-6A_dv4K136dfb4vtHg_mWwXfN-Ab-c2-6XFgsCvXJ0_pkUrYtLwJveLxZfDfUgtOOWWYWAAGcKjLI6FiuoP32ztkESN8D2txF6k/s1600/The+Morristribe.jpg" /></a></div>
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Welcome to one of the most enthusiastic blogs I've come across when it comes to teaching and learning to homestead. One of the things I do when I come across a new blog is read their "About" page. What struck me about Kelly's page:<br />
<i>It wasn’t until 18 years ago that I made the correlation between “time” and “stuff”. To acquire more “stuff”, you must continually give up parts of your “life”. Almost overnight, my enthusiasm about my career and current way of life began to diminish.</i><br />
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She's absolutely right of course. This began her transformation into a one income family and a new way of life. What I love most about her blog, is she's more than willing to share what she's learned with her readers in order to make their lives a little simpler.<br />
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Her series on <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/2012/04/24/how-to-get-started-homesteading-the-first-steps/" target="_blank">How to Get Started Homesteading</a>, is a great place to start for beginners. It covers things from getting to know your farming community, how to get <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/2012/05/01/how-to-get-started-homesteading-creating-good-soil/" target="_blank">good soil</a>, to <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/2012/05/01/how-to-get-started-homesteading-choose-easy-crops/" target="_blank">easy crops to grow</a> and <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/2012/05/03/how-to-get-started-homesteading-begin-composting/" target="_blank">composting</a>! She often times has a great series like the ones on homesteading. She recently had one of my favorites from any blog, on the <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/homesteading/the-great-depression-series/" target="_blank">Depression</a>. It was a reminder of all that my grandparents had been through and why I do what I do for my family.<br />
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She even has articles on how to be a bit <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/paying-for-it-all/self-sufficiency-paying-for-it-all/" target="_blank">more self sufficient</a> and even some on <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/paying-for-it-all/getting-out-of-debt/" target="_blank">getting out of debt</a>. If none of these interest you, Kelly has a ton of great things in the recipe department. <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/feeding-the-tribe/recipes/" target="_blank">Here</a> is the link to her recipe section. She even has some really good posts on stuff that has to do with<a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/good-things/kid-stuff/" target="_blank"> kids</a>. Which includes things like motivating your kiddos, how to make chores more fun and even a little something on "the talk"! She even has a video series for the newbies, called <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/e-store/" target="_blank">A Year on Homestead</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1Ymk7ZWEGXXwI-W4x5MuH5hZhXW5uXvxgljY4lEEQl6Sm0SQt4Vnok299sLvbD1pA6k-lRanY-W8Hvha_dYgGLjwCR9X8g5Y6arII0Jsa-rosSlrMrT_f3MzwirLDXoYJ_QKnpQioMJL/s1600/3GreatVideos11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih1Ymk7ZWEGXXwI-W4x5MuH5hZhXW5uXvxgljY4lEEQl6Sm0SQt4Vnok299sLvbD1pA6k-lRanY-W8Hvha_dYgGLjwCR9X8g5Y6arII0Jsa-rosSlrMrT_f3MzwirLDXoYJ_QKnpQioMJL/s640/3GreatVideos11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Together, she sells them for only $9.99 or individually for between $2.99 - $4.99. So, it's not going to break the bank if you want to buy them all at once or one at a time!<br />
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Another bonus that Kelly does is her <a href="http://www.themorristribe.com/category/homesteading/the-morristribe-homestead-blog-carnival/" target="_blank">Homesteader Blog Carnival</a>. A great linky party that showcases everyone's best in homesteading and sustainable living.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQrsGMPcMUV6hoBY_afaPxHGWWbmgsnPPR_aQr_ENDtPWv5KYDkW0RiAIOyGV6IcnbAsyZsuc4hnl_Vlb3ObiTbvP8Url3y5awRKCDzCk823afyP367H6W-8WupTlnUmlA1SFfKSOHjTot/s1600/Bloghoppic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQrsGMPcMUV6hoBY_afaPxHGWWbmgsnPPR_aQr_ENDtPWv5KYDkW0RiAIOyGV6IcnbAsyZsuc4hnl_Vlb3ObiTbvP8Url3y5awRKCDzCk823afyP367H6W-8WupTlnUmlA1SFfKSOHjTot/s320/Bloghoppic.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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There are so many great things on Kelly's blog that I honestly don't know where to begin! She has giveaways regularly and on her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheMorristribe" target="_blank">FB page</a>, shares all of these goodies plus a little bit more! So, grab a glass of your favorite summer time beverage (it's almost 90 degrees here today!) and give Kelly's blog a minute or ten! :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-79187089864659056422012-05-03T10:33:00.002-05:002012-05-04T10:53:07.177-05:00Crocheted Luggage TagsI'm one of those weird people that can have all sorts of friends. An eclectic mix really from rednecks to very posh and proper people. Though I will admit that none of them really hang out together but, they all still speak to me and why is beyond me sometimes. I'm a goofy chic and well, sometimes have not a lot in common with them but, got to love people who love you! :)<br />
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Anyway, I have friends that have a lifestyle nothing like mine like this family friend and his extended family who travel the world offering medical help to various countries, not missionaries or part of a doctor group. My doctor even, not part of a bigger group, takes yearly trips to Sudan to help out there. They just do it on their own out of the goodness of their hearts. Which makes them good people in my book.<br />
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I don't have the money to do something so neat but, my family helps these guys out in any way that we can and one of the ways I'm going to share with you now. As I've mentioned before, I'm not the crocheter in the family so, the directions I share come from my mom. So, if you've got a question, by all means ask and I'll ask her to clarify! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxOhUSnvWhqjLwWbNInCFWegrpz0RP2Y9lYefzkb9V9F8hnRkSigZdOquHGtyHRXQXq3EGJQ_boZ9DCLcbiFS2vb4bGLfzpErK32uF4rWu3ql-_uTIISTjsy0p2gGoN4i4W37vyjT2OwS/s1600/DSCN8642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghxOhUSnvWhqjLwWbNInCFWegrpz0RP2Y9lYefzkb9V9F8hnRkSigZdOquHGtyHRXQXq3EGJQ_boZ9DCLcbiFS2vb4bGLfzpErK32uF4rWu3ql-_uTIISTjsy0p2gGoN4i4W37vyjT2OwS/s640/DSCN8642.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>This photo does not show the colors correctly for some reason but, the left one is a teal color, the middle is black and the right is blue. There is also a red, orange, yellow and green one not pictured here. </i></div>
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Why luggage tags? Well, these people who travel to different countries love them because a) they are original and you won't see them often. So, you can find these easier in a crowded airport. Another reason, b) you can color code your luggage! One color is medical supplies, one color is your son's, one is yours, and another color maybe your father's, etc. This way, you don't have to go through every single suitcase to figure out what is where!<br />
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<u>Materials: </u><br />
1 - 6oz. skein o worsted weight yarn (Makes 20 tags)<br />
Size G crochet hook<br />
Metal key chain rings<br />
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<u>So, here goes transcription of the luggage tag directions: </u><br />
Leaving approximately 3" tail, chain 12.<br />
Single crochet (sc) in the second chain from hook and each chain around putting 3sc in the last chain stitch.<br />
Continue sc in chain around to beginning.<br />
Slip stitch in the first sc, chain 12.<br />
Lay metal ring on the last 2 chain.<br />
2 sc in 2nd chain fro hook (going through the center of key ring and down into chain stitch, picking up your yarn to complete sc by bringing it through both the chain stitch and the key ring, then finish sc)<br />
2 sc in third chain as previously done.<br />
Then, sc in remaining chain stitches.<br />
Slip stitch in previous slip stitch of main body, joining both pieces securely.<br />
Sc around, sc up side to top of side. <br />
Chain 1 and turn. Sc in each, sc down side, 3sc corner, sc across bottom.<br />
sc in corner, sc back up other side.<br />
Slip stitch to fasten and leaving approximately 21/2 - 3 inch tail. Cut yarn.<br />
Weave the tail back in to hide.<br />
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Remember, she translated these from memory and had no official pattern to work with. She is known for just making up crotched patterns! Though I do know if you "google" crochetedd luggage tags, you find a bunch. I think this is a great idea in general though, how easy it would be to keep family members luggage separate and how easy to find your luggage amongst the sea of other bags out there!<br />
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It's just a neat idea that you can use for tons of other things besides your airplane luggage. You can use it for things like a day out at the zoo to tell the difference among your children's lunch pails, or what bags have the goodies and what has the extra pull ups, clothes and medicines, etc. The applications for things like this are really unending and extremely helpful.<br />
<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a><br />
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<br /></div>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-38167149435239191132012-05-01T13:40:00.002-05:002012-05-01T14:57:32.690-05:00Not Your Typical Child Tuesday #5Today's Not Your Typical Child Tuesday is about children with APD or Auditory Processing Disorder.<br />
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<b>What is APD?</b> APD is a neurological condition that affect the area of the brain or central nervous system that processes the spoken language. It's basically responsible for not only auditory information but, memory, attention and language, among other things that are also controlled by this region of the brain. This can make it difficult for a kiddo to filter out background noise or to understand what is being spoken to them, not have the best short term memory, and good attention. It is often mistaken for ADHD! Most importantly, you'll find that they have rather good hearing.<br />
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While those with ADHD may not listen well and have a difficulty in understanding or remembering verbal information given, their actual neurological processing of the verbal input is still intact. It is the ADHD affecting the ability to follow direction. Not a neurological issue affecting the child.<br />
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There was an excerpt from a news video that showed how APD affects some people. I wrote it down so that I could express to family friends what my little guys' problem might sound like to him and here is the transcript: <i>Laddle Rat Rotten Hut: Once pawn term, dare worsted laddle gull hoe lift wetter murder inner laddle cortage. Honor itch offer lodge dock florist. </i><br />
This translates to : Little Red Riding Hood: Once upon a time, there was a little girl who lived with her mother in a little cottage.....<br />
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<b>So, what does this mean per say?</b> It means that for example, when I call my son's name a dozen or more times and he doesn't answer. He's not being mean or stubborn or bad! It means that if there is a TV or radio on or too many kids or the wind is even too loud, I have to get in front of him and often times touch him to let him know he's being spoken to. He cannot pick my voice out or anyone else's for that matter from the background noise. In our home it meant that "elephant" really means elephant and ambulance or that "I fry" was french fry for a couple of years now. It means in the case of my nephew that "a dog supervision" is understood as "adult supervision". It means that even though I show my son something, I understand that he may not recall it a whole 30 seconds later! In class they my have trouble understanding what they're hearing or simply have trouble hearing with the noise of other kiddos in class. They may be distracted by every little sound or sounds that you or I may not really even hear because, we've learned to process it, as background noise!<br />
Basically for our household, it means that just because my child uses a word and even pronounces it correctly, it is understood by me that a) this may or may not be the object he is referring to. b) That he may not always have the right word or be able to communicate properly at all times, especially when he's excited or angry. c) That even though I tell him the name of something, even a dozen times in a minute, he may not recall a single thing and or even come close to being able to say it d) he may not be able to tell where sound is coming from, i.e. if he hears noise above him, he may think it's come from in front of him and e) that I will often have to stop doing everything and get in front of him (almost always touch him) to convey that I am talking to him.<br />
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<b>Signs of APD?</b> Does your child mishear a word or phrase often? Or have trouble following directions? Do they seem to not hear you when background noise is around? Do they have difficulty remembering what you've just told them or have an issue using the right word or finding the right word to use period? There are a hundred different things to go by but, they can also be present in another disorder or two. The best way to check is to work with an experienced ST or SLP (speech language pathologist) and an audiologist. Together than can tell you whether your child might have it. APD is not typically diagnosed before the age of 7 years old but, if your child shows some pronounced signs of APD, like my little guy does, most SLPs will work with your child because the earlier you start therapy for it, the better off your child will be. <a href="http://ctytler.blogspot.ca/2012/04/signs-your-child-may-have-auditory.html" target="_blank">Here</a> is a GREAT article that goes further in depth on the signs and symptoms.<br />
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<b>What causes APD?</b> No one really knows. There are a few regression disorders where it is automatically recognized but, in general for most kiddos, though there are many theories, there is no known reason why they have it.<br />
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<b>Support: </b>There are a lot of great places online to find support if you or loved one have APD. There is the <a href="http://apdnetwork.webs.com/" target="_blank">Auditory Processing Disorder Network</a> and even a FANTASTIC page on FB if that is where you're comfortable called, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/213243298737362/" target="_blank">Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Support</a>. It is a "closed group" and you must ask to join but, they are some incredible people in there, teens with APD, parents of children with APD and an adult or two with APD! Super supportive people with some great deal of experience and ideas to share. They made a HUGE difference in our lives without speech therapy!<br />
If you're just up to reading about APD, there are some great blogs or posts on the subject, like this one over at <a href="http://www.life360.com/blog/auditory-processing-disorder/" target="_blank">Life 360</a>. Or this one on ways to<a href="http://www.listenlovelearn.com/blog/2012/04/auditory-memory/" target="_blank"> help improve your child's memory</a>. The <a href="http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/04/26/little-known-disorder-can-take-a-toll-on-learning/" target="_blank">NY Times</a> even had an article on it when Rosie O'Donnell began to educate the world on it. <a href="http://www.bonnieterry.com/blog/index.php/2009/01/18-auditory-processing-activities-you-can-do-without-spending-a-dime/" target="_blank">Here's</a> an article on suggestions for helping an older kiddo with APD. Here is a fantastic blog post from an adult, on <a href="http://qw88nb88.wordpress.com/living-with-auditory-processing-disorder/" target="_blank">having APD</a>. If the internet is not your thing, one of the most recommended books out there for APD is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Sound-Hope-Recognizing-Processing/dp/0345512189/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pdT2_nS?ie=UTF8&coliid=I1OJKOF7KYT3VS&colid=2189K3A600L6I" target="_blank">The Sound of Hope</a>.<br />
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There is also another great book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/When-Brain-Cant-Hear-Unraveling/dp/0743428641/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1335897249&sr=1-1" target="_blank">When the Brain Can't Hear.</a></div>
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With a lot of work with a speech therapist and some work at home, these kids can make huge strides! So, be patient and don't give up hope! They'll come into their own and still become some amazing people! <br />
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Thanks for joining me on another Not Your Typical Child Tuesday! Now back to your regularly scheduled program.... </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-25416057522148661732012-04-27T07:00:00.000-05:002012-04-27T16:34:45.027-05:00Favorite Blog Friday #4<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This week's favorite blog is <span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/" target="_blank">Frugally Sustainable</a>.</span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Andrea caught my attention for a lot of reasons. First let her explain her world in her own words: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><em style="color: #3f301b; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> <b>Frugally Sustainable</b></em><span style="color: #3f301b; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"><i><b> is the story of our family’s transition out of a consumer culture into the brave world of sustainability. It’s about focusing on what’s important amidst uncertain times. It’s about returning to forgotten skills, reviving old wisdom, creating something amazing, and finding happiness.</b></i></span>
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<span style="color: #3f301b; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Andrea does an amazing job of covering all aspects of being self sufficient and "frugally sustainable" from <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/homeschool/" target="_blank">homeschooling</a>, <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/helps-for-the-home/" target="_blank">taking care of the home</a>, <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/sewing-and-the-arts/" target="_blank">sewing and the like</a>, <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/nutrition/" target="_blank">nutrition</a> and <a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/natural-world/" target="_blank">natural life</a>, including various herbs like:</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxATxCZDGipBUI82Qd_dbimrwxiRXy51BLOCiy-Dm5dwoDEkQc65QayNBYZfEJTcq1BI6A82V4k0rRt2cMWyk5tdtZbdjLYXbiKb06Xfm3-c-5tZbO52P5a31hca8JpjfmV1xqyE9F_b1E/s1600/0071-660x495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxATxCZDGipBUI82Qd_dbimrwxiRXy51BLOCiy-Dm5dwoDEkQc65QayNBYZfEJTcq1BI6A82V4k0rRt2cMWyk5tdtZbdjLYXbiKb06Xfm3-c-5tZbO52P5a31hca8JpjfmV1xqyE9F_b1E/s640/0071-660x495.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Or Calendula</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhKrEFGKJCrQIbQ5g8WLPbgi3x6ogvoXvOh3VyztyVhvMbvAQ_7qk8X1fjNNCSude8lVgzPdRFXwpWDULCB2K_zNIWy4ugSo8TszTybRCH8ryDP5dttKGCSKCG_J4TLHp_338sR_C9wWz/s1600/002-660x495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhKrEFGKJCrQIbQ5g8WLPbgi3x6ogvoXvOh3VyztyVhvMbvAQ_7qk8X1fjNNCSude8lVgzPdRFXwpWDULCB2K_zNIWy4ugSo8TszTybRCH8ryDP5dttKGCSKCG_J4TLHp_338sR_C9wWz/s640/002-660x495.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">She covers things like </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/04/they-call-us-crazy-how-to-thrive-when-living-a-non-mainstream-lifestyle/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">homesteading</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, complete with information on </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/03/tips-for-keeping-backyard-hens/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">chickens</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and even </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/preparedness-survival/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">preparedness</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> too. She has a ton of posts on natural remedies too. Things like a </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2011/11/holiday-travel-solutions-rosemary/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">calming spray</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, to help get you through things like the holidays, or an </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/04/a-recipe-for-homemade-herbal-detangler-spray/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">herbal detangler</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2011/09/lip-balm-produced-at-home/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">lip balms</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and even an<a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/2012/04/a-recipe-for-homemade-itch-relief-stick-and-a-giveaway-for-you/" target="_blank"> itch relief stick</a>! She even covers quite a few </span><a href="http://frugallysustainable.com/beauty/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">beauty</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> related items as well, if that's your cup of tea!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favorite things about her blog is Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmO6GugDItagpY2wFxi82TJ6B6EhNnfgs7S3l9pEfx8JWVZcfkA6VUBET3wZ_k-bm-iFTC2sYmKnzENe3ETs5EuDorPzpHKaStA1zBoNKjbWX4BiLrktmzBplRRaVnCLIAhM-GdIwQc0V/s1600/frugaldays.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZmO6GugDItagpY2wFxi82TJ6B6EhNnfgs7S3l9pEfx8JWVZcfkA6VUBET3wZ_k-bm-iFTC2sYmKnzENe3ETs5EuDorPzpHKaStA1zBoNKjbWX4BiLrktmzBplRRaVnCLIAhM-GdIwQc0V/s640/frugaldays.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'll be honest here, I normally shy away from a lot of linky parties because, I mean I have two little ones in tow! I don't have time to look into every single blog and try and run my own on top of the life I have off of here. That being said, there are a few blogs that I will literally sit down and go through most, if not all of the links and this is one of them! Andrea features a few goodies and then leaves the link up open for everyone to add their links. There is usually some great stuff on there!<br /><br />If there's not enough stuff to keep you occupied here, she also has a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/frugallysustainable" target="_blank">FB page</a> to peruse through as well. Not only does she pass along some really good information and ideas there, she is also just amazing at passing on follower or reader questions! I can't tell you how many new things I've learned by just reading the replies to some of the questions there.<br /><br />So, if you're interested in becoming more sustainable, more self sufficient, take some time to check Andrea out. She's got a lot of information to share for sure! </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></span></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-24129782520987252172012-04-24T07:18:00.001-05:002012-05-01T10:41:24.227-05:00Not Your Typical Child Tuesday #4Today I'm going to tackle what to some, is a controversial topic. Today, I'm taking on ADHD head on. Now, I know some of us don't understand why this is controversial and truth be told, it shouldn't be at all but, there are those out there who don't understand it and therefor chalk it up to bad parenting, or kids just being kids, or kids being bad kids even. So, in an attempt to understand this disorder, I'm going to delve into the world of ADHD.<br />
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What is ADHD? ADHD is a neurobiological disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate impulsivity, inattention and often time hyperactivty. While everyone is spacey at one time or another or has a hard time sitting still, those with ADHD or ADD can't seem to focus on a daily and consistent basis. They not only can't seem to focus on a task or two or ten, they can't seem to sit still for very long. This problem is on a daily basis and effects their daily lives. Most often, children with ADHD also have something called Executive Function Disorder. This is why they have problems, analyzing, planning, organizing, scheduling or not only completing tasks but unable to meet deadlines in life. That said, often children with EFD will often get misdiagnosed with ADD. Which is simply the inattentive type of ADHD without hyperactivity. Though, children with ADHD or ADD may well have both! Most noticeably those with EFD when put on stimulant meds, will not have symptom improvement.<br />
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<b>How do you know when a child has ADHD?</b> <br />
Well first, thing you need to know is the difference in the types of ADHD. One being true ADHD and the other being ADD.<br />
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<u>ADD</u> kiddos, tend to not pay close attention to things, have difficulty sustaining attention to most anything and often make careless mistakes. They don't seem to listen, struggle with following directions, have struggles organizing, most often will not do anything that requires a sustained mental effort, forget or get distracted easily. For example, my boys' half brother has a classic case of ADD. He will do fine in class but, when asked what his homework is, he could not remember. On his way out of the school for the day, when most kiddos are throwing coats on and running out the door, the teacher would report that he would be zoned out, coat half on, stopped and staring at nothing or the wall. His teacher would report that in class he'd seem to get it but, later at home when it was time for homework, he could not manage to figure out how the teacher, just hours earlier could get A+B=C. This behavior was not sporadic but, a consistent DAILY thing that impacted and still does every area of his life. Most teachers were frustrated by him because for all intents and purposes he was a good kid but, seemingly easily distracted. One year, a teacher wanted to put him in a cubicle in the hallway so that he would be less distracted! Because of things like this, he was gradually soloed out as "that bad kid" and began to loose friends. At 13 yrs old when he comes to visit the boys, if he is asked to do something requiring more than two step directions, he still cannot do it. If asked to clean a room, he can't do it. Instead, he'll stand there staring at the mess. You literally have to tell him to pick up one item at a time, ie. just pick up the Legos, just pick up the transformers, etc. He struggles daily with this and it has cost him friends, respect of his peers and teachers and with one more year of middle school, he's on the verge of flunking out!! All because the school system refused to help or acknowledge his issue, nor do some other people in his life but, that is for a different discussion! ; )<br />
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<u>ADHD</u> kiddos are the hyperactive and impulsive ones! They're the ones that will either keep you young or kill you! :P Just teasing! Seriously though, ADHD kiddos cannot seem to sit still...EVER! If they're not getting up and down or running, etc. they can't seem to not fidget. They can't seem to commit to quiet activities, sometimes talk EXCESSIVELY! They often run or climb a lot, never able to connect that if you climb on a bookcase and they've been told to get down because it will fall and they'll get hurt, that the bookcase will fall and they will get hurt! Even after they've fallen from the bookcase and broke an arm, you may catch them climbing to the top shelf in their closet! They seem to run on some kind of motor or caffeine line that you know nothing about. Taking turns and waiting to talk are just not in their manners bank, no matter how many ways you've tried to teach them these basic skills. If the thought of anything crossed their mind, their brain is unable to restrain the action and impulsively they respond, react or do without being able to think it through.<br />
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<b>What are the causes of ADHD? </b><br />
We don't really know what causes ADHD. It's more prevalent in boys than girls, which as most know, means that there is a genetic component. Which is backed up by families like my boys. In my family, two of my cousins on my mom's side have ADHD, several relatives on my father's side also had ADHD, my little sis has ADHD and growing up, I had ADD - hence the occasional remarks about having the attention span of a gnat! :P The boys older, half brother has ADD as well. So, if you were using a family like my sons', it's quite obvious there has to be a genetic component. There are even some studies that show, like a lot of other things, prematurity can also have something to do with whether a child might have ADHD. To this day though, there is no confirmed real thing that they can nail down as to why some have it and some don't. There are a lot of theorie<span style="font-family: inherit;">s about where it comes from and even contributing risk factors but, no concrete evidence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">They can say though, that most likely the culprits of ADHD are neurotransmitters. Most likely the chemical neurotransmitter, Dopamine. Dopamine is mostly the chemical in the body responsible for keeping the attention centers of the brain stimulated. So, without a proper level of Dopamine, a person's attention span is compromised. There are also studies on the actual structure of the brain of boys with ADHD. They tend to have more symmetrical brains in shape. With 3 structures in their brains that are smaller than a neurotypical boy of the same ages. They were the prefrontal cortex (believed to be command central of the brain), the caudate nucleus and the globus pallidus, which both help translate those commands from the prefrontal cortex into an action or actions. There is even evidence that shows not only are the structure slightly different but, that the brain uses those areas differently than a neurotypical child. By doing brain scans, they've noticed that ADHD boys have abnormal increases in the frontal lobe and the striatal areas below it. These parts help with voluntary actions! So, if you follow that evidence through, ADHD boys, despite the appearance, are working harder to control their impulses than a neurotypical child is!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>How do you treat ADHD?</b> There are a plethora of answers for this. Like many other treatments for anything, what works for one, may not work for another. Depending upon your insurance issues, belief systems and money, the answers vary.<br />Diets are a natural thing to try and in all honesty work for a lot of people! Things like the </span><a href="http://www.feingold.org/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Feingold Diet</a>, worked well for my sister and her boys. There is a lot of research out there for this side of symptom/disorder treatment, just Google! If you're going to try this though, may I recommend: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Kid-Friendly-ADHD-Autism-Cookbook/dp/B005UVT06Y/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1335212848&sr=8-3" target="_blank">The Kid-Friendly ADHD and Autism Cookbook: The Ultimate Guide to Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet by Pamela Compart and Dana Laake</a>.</div>
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I want to start off saying that don't let the Autism word scare you in any way! Once you start researching, you'll find that Autism and other things like ADHD have a lot in common. Secondly, though I whole heartedly, recommend this book, I was not asked to review nor have any affiliation with anyone that has anything to do with the writing or printing of the book. So, trust me when I tell you that it is a great, eye opening book for anyone researching food and ANY of your child's neurobiological issues. Once you've given it a healthy once over, you'll never look at food the same way, ever.</div>
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If you're not into the diet and food related options for treatments, you can always try some kind of occupational therapy. Yes, I said OT! You'd be surprised to know that occupational therapists can employ a whole host of methods at their fingertips to help ADHD kiddos from "normal" OT practices, to<a href="http://www.interactivemetronome.com/index.php/what-is-imhome.html" target="_blank"> Interactive Metranome</a>, and <a href="http://www.massagetoday.com/mpacms/mt/article.php?id=13578" target="_blank">cranial sacral therapy</a>. Here is where I get to vouch for something that I was not paid to talk about nor asked to. Cranial Sacral sounds all hippy like but, it works and it works well for one of my boys. On the days he sees his OT and she does this for him, he actually takes a nap, holds still, listens, nor is he up and down on the emotional roller coaster. This doesn't seem to effect my other boy though, so remember what works for one kiddo may not work for another. </div>
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Another thing you could consider would be some kind of therapy. The earlier you get in to see someone, the earlier you child can learn behavior that is positive and helpful for themselves. They can do psychotherapy, behavioral therapy - including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), social skills training, parent retraining, etc. In my experience though not every counselor, psychologist or therapist is a good fit for a family. Some cling to older mentalities, some to a very hands off approach to dealing with various issues. I once had a therapist tell me to physically hold my son in timeout when he'd earned his way there....that is THE biggest no no for my oldest guy. He never did like to be held much and even though I told the guy that holding him, results in the "fight of flight" reaction, he still recommended that I try this. Needless to say, I never went back to him after that! Don't be afraid to try different professionals until you find one that fits! You have to have a great team, that communicates well to make this work. </div>
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Lastly, and as a last resort, there is always medication. I will not say with or without medication is best because, as I've said a hundred times, not every child is the same. Some are further down the rabbit hole than others and some are more defiant than others. It's a hit a miss kind of thing. I will say that medication should be broached as a last resort though. It's too easy to take the smooth road, then to take the bull by the horns because going it without and even sometimes with meds, is NOT easy. If you are going to do meds though, here's my two cents: <br />
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<li>I recommend asking and researching which ones are the safest first. With the new drugs out there being pushed to docs they'll most likely throw you on the newest one or two that they get but, sadly enough, Riddalin is still the safest starting point in a lot of cases - though not always. </li>
<li>Keep an eye on side effects too. One medication worked well for a lot of kiddos, mine was no exception but, like his cousin, that medication caused stomach pain in both boys. </li>
<li>If you're in it for the quick fix, think again. While some medications seem to produce a noticeable result for some families within a day or two, sometimes it takes up to 2 whole weeks for the medications to build up enough to be noticeable. </li>
<li>Keep an eye on mood swings. One very popular medication right now seems to cause this issue in a lot of kiddos, my nephews and my son again are no exception. One nephew was removed from it, the other can tolerate it in small doses.</li>
<li>If a doc recommends medication, you have every right to say, "let me sleep on it" or flat out no! Don't let them run you over. Remember, this is your child, you are the parent and the pediatrician works FOR you!</li>
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The advice I give you here comes from experiences and as a mother who does do medications for one child and is able to opt for more natural treatments for the other. Honestly, after all these years and experiences with medications, if I could go for fully natural remedies for my oldest son, I would in a heartbeat. You'll understand in a later Tuesday post why I had to take that route. Just keep in mind during your research or dealings with various docs, that you have to do what is right for your family. If you opt for natural treatments, don't let your family or friends make you feel like you made the wrong choice. If you opted for meds, don't let anyone else make you feel as if you took the easy way out. For most of us, it was not an easy choice by any means. I cried for days when I found no other way out for my son. </div>
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That being said, for those that don't know, medication is not the easy way out. If you do take more than one medication, it is tricky to find the right balance for your child. Not to mention too that as they age so does their body chemistry and so the perfect balance no longer works or they build up a tolerance to the medication....it is a merry-go-round for sure. AND the mother that chose to medicate, also still chooses a way to help treat her child, be it OT, therapy and/or food! So, here again, NOT the easy way out! My oldest does take medications, goes to OT, has therapy and has a diet that I found worked wonders for him. With all this in place, he went from 7 medications down to 4! Which is still a lot of medications and again, I'll explain why in another post but, suffice to say, he does not have <i>just</i> ADHD. The point though that all of these ways to treat ADHD have been employed and in conjunction with one another have worked well for him. Again, while my youngest son with just diet, and so far occupational therapy has done well! So, no matter what avenue you choose or if you're a split family like ours, remember to keep your options open, keep an open mind to other families who've chosen to do things differently and don't be afraid to challenge your doc if need be. They are not the be all end all on the subject of YOUR CHILD! </div>
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If you're just reading this to learn, I say again, quit giving that kid and his mom the stink eye in the grocery store! Sometimes a fit is just a fit and other times, it's what you don't see under the layers that is real problem, not bad parenting or bad children. So, stink eyes off and learn to be a bit more open minded! :) </div>
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Thanks for joining me for another Not Your Typical Child Tuesday! Now back to your regularly scheduled program....</div>
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<br />JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-82877971874486339852012-04-22T10:58:00.003-05:002012-04-22T11:01:45.784-05:00Simple Sunday #4<div style="text-align: center;">
What's simple today? Fruit, well more specifically, <b>apples</b>! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlUPoWIBx-kNwmoghensXBKsFyV0DHF5dCO5OBOtAwKmAITinmAv6dMHu-26NvXcm3_4yOsqOaNobfW0kBHzPe2gWJilbY_PXBpET23oDslWqEIyxVNWixq3rj5JLr9W-PDQWwVVjtdON/s1600/DSCN8645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlUPoWIBx-kNwmoghensXBKsFyV0DHF5dCO5OBOtAwKmAITinmAv6dMHu-26NvXcm3_4yOsqOaNobfW0kBHzPe2gWJilbY_PXBpET23oDslWqEIyxVNWixq3rj5JLr9W-PDQWwVVjtdON/s640/DSCN8645.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Not my best picture I've posted but, my son wanted to snap the shot and I could've let him do it, erase it and take a prettier one but, it was special because he took it. :)<br />
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Why are apples simple? Well, I get the boys' produce from Whole Foods. Yes, it is expensive but, I have my reasons for spending the extra cash to do this. My favorite, absolute favorite thing to do, is to walk in and head straight to the apples and take a deep breath in. Nothing but that sweet, woodsy apple smell fills my lungs. It makes me happy and makes me think of the times I climbed trees as a kid or stood on the wheel well of grandpa William's tractor and picked the apples low enough for me to reach as he drove through his orchard. It reminds me of the times we all cramped around in the basement, making applesauce for us kiddies and apple cider (usually the special kind) for the adults.<br />
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Aside from my trips down memory lane, apples are just great anyway! What better way to make some little kid's day than to hand them a plate with an smile made from apple slices. There is no baking required to enjoy one, there are tons of different flavors to experience and enjoy and the variety of colors are just pretty in general.<br />
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Who says apple cider tea isn't delicious or apple cider for that matter? Who doesn't love an apple pie or a good glass of apple juice? Apples are good with cinnamon, yogurt, certain meats, wines, beers, and even other fruits and veggies. Not to mention the nutritional value of a good apple and no processing required really. Anything that you can bake, you can throw an apple in! You don't have to take out a loan to buy apples, even in bulk and they're a great sweet treat when you need a snack. You can even use them in crafts and homeschool lessons!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7xw_MpV8ayIJD_YZhpvUn7R3GGXzKpZ46udutUMpAkM8JIplYr0MfRkEQzE9994UMqsHBHYEZPdB5qyT3xiQOIaqbUjIfOJLeEhwmlhIgtLvtZqSoxn6gmx7Cty2JB2DYiTY6C7OnVYT/s1600/Picture+or+Video+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ7xw_MpV8ayIJD_YZhpvUn7R3GGXzKpZ46udutUMpAkM8JIplYr0MfRkEQzE9994UMqsHBHYEZPdB5qyT3xiQOIaqbUjIfOJLeEhwmlhIgtLvtZqSoxn6gmx7Cty2JB2DYiTY6C7OnVYT/s640/Picture+or+Video+014.JPG" width="411" /></a></div>
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<i>This is a much older picture of my oldest son. He was 2 in this picture and I kid you not, spent an hour eating this apple. What makes it even more special, this was his very 1st whole apple! He was so cute eating it! </i></div>
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There's so many good things to love about apples, most especially the sweet little smiles that they elicit when little boys or girls see them stacked on the plate, all sliced and ready to go!<br />
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So, sit back, grab a glass of whatever you enjoy and snack on an apple, and make today a simpler time with the family!<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-89911848705127887602012-04-20T08:56:00.002-05:002012-04-22T01:07:12.867-05:00Favorite Blog Friday #3<div style="text-align: center;">
This week's Favorite Blog Friday is Gail's <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/" target="_blank">My Repurposed Life</a>. Why is this a blog you should visit? A lot of different reasons! Gail is so inspiring, she finds all these great "trash items" and remakes them into new, exciting things. Living a blue collar life is all about making do with what you have but, it doesn't mean that you have to live in the uggies! Gail shows us all how to redo, remake and reuse what you've already got or found. One persons trash is another persons treasure! Gail has used doors to make benches, not just headboards but, has built an entire bed with them!! <span style="text-align: center;">Would you believe that this trunk was a door orginally?! </span><a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/2012/04/repurposed-door-into-trunk.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Here's</a><span style="text-align: center;"> how she did it! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFM3o-ULkooZe0G3Ux4VtHbNJr0YPmSWre8lyHt0q6NfTcY-AcPIxYFQhkyc_rVz-K8Gyof4jUY44B6r1ELypHO2ogEECeUbalDy9S4F-RSHymCAnu5ZkWN0XLhyPBgrCdgUfmeSQMCYy/s1600/door-repurposed-into-a-trunk-423.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizFM3o-ULkooZe0G3Ux4VtHbNJr0YPmSWre8lyHt0q6NfTcY-AcPIxYFQhkyc_rVz-K8Gyof4jUY44B6r1ELypHO2ogEECeUbalDy9S4F-RSHymCAnu5ZkWN0XLhyPBgrCdgUfmeSQMCYy/s640/door-repurposed-into-a-trunk-423.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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She has even redone and made various tables like these:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwEZVIU4n6PBXkILY7gIt_Fzt-FM9zBdsg7zZKG43QjcS9V30Ch90eqAK7Uj9pSqYtzQ7E8w0SDO2einMzM4cJ9kY3J49qLA7Sdu3PfHzmUWJsqwOBY_F_yVEiMe_RsRwEkQ_JehIb-Tj/s1600/013b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="537" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuwEZVIU4n6PBXkILY7gIt_Fzt-FM9zBdsg7zZKG43QjcS9V30Ch90eqAK7Uj9pSqYtzQ7E8w0SDO2einMzM4cJ9kY3J49qLA7Sdu3PfHzmUWJsqwOBY_F_yVEiMe_RsRwEkQ_JehIb-Tj/s640/013b.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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If tables don't interest you, how about:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryCEGqIEMYnpmxGvDZUvIgbU5QQoaKt0y_vr95RwCCjQ7P8gmEW30JcbJeZni83Ci1SrmF54-L3HOOP_tA5vHFZsCkLi2EJQq5pz42x_6BONbCjJYrrJJyWImE1ozPZrYE9y14mVnqOTh/s1600/100_4693.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgryCEGqIEMYnpmxGvDZUvIgbU5QQoaKt0y_vr95RwCCjQ7P8gmEW30JcbJeZni83Ci1SrmF54-L3HOOP_tA5vHFZsCkLi2EJQq5pz42x_6BONbCjJYrrJJyWImE1ozPZrYE9y14mVnqOTh/s640/100_4693.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Shelves? This is too cute! If aesthetics are not your thing, practicality will win you over! She does that too! :) She can show you <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/2012/01/small-diy-drawers.html" target="_blank">how to make drawers</a>,</div>
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Or inspire you with neat things, like these cupboards!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXQ-mWcFb6AC9Zust31m4TV8djp291AuAv_SSaAYcaoHPRdnef9TPO9Sb9zXcVhQykg6KoUO1E7l6awkzavBruXbfJrWiR_CDluq3U02M6XZ6-VHxbkD2GPRwgUORy6HyzN1HJM8feGck/s1600/repurposed+Window+Cabinet+(65)%5B3%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFXQ-mWcFb6AC9Zust31m4TV8djp291AuAv_SSaAYcaoHPRdnef9TPO9Sb9zXcVhQykg6KoUO1E7l6awkzavBruXbfJrWiR_CDluq3U02M6XZ6-VHxbkD2GPRwgUORy6HyzN1HJM8feGck/s640/repurposed+Window+Cabinet+(65)%5B3%5D.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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When you peruse her blog and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myrepurposedlife" target="_blank">FB page</a>, you'll be filled with lots of inspiring ideas but, just in case you need more she even hosts a regular linky party called Catch Can! <a href="http://www.myrepurposedlife.net/2012/04/catch-as-catch-can-70.html" target="_blank">Here's</a> this week's link to it. If you've got some down time, grab a glass and go through with pen in paper in hand to write down all the neat things she'll inspire you to do! </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-84308503141157480262012-04-19T09:36:00.001-05:002012-04-19T09:41:49.503-05:00Getting Your Vehicle Ready<br />
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I have to write about this one today because well, if it's going to happen, it's going to or already has happened to me. Plus a girlfriend of mine just went through heck when her car broke down about 100 miles from home, in the middle of nowhere! </div>
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I grew up in farm country where it was always drilled into my head to be prepared, that being said, as I approached my teens and was in my early 20s or so, I let that fundamental rule slide. In a effort I suppose to distance myself from my old fashioned family members. Then the two years prior to having my boys, everything that could go wrong, did. A.B. (after boys), it happened with less frequency but, when things went wrong, it was a much bigger deal! So, in an effort to save anyone with having to handle a baby (still in a carseat and unable to crawl), a feeding tube bag with a long tube running between the two and having to figure out how you're going to stay cool or warm and trying to fix something in your vehicle, I'm going to share my vehicle preps with you. Those were NOT fun times! I'm still not sure how I didn't rip that NG tube out during those times. :D</div>
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Now I realize that not everyone is lucky enough (well, if you don't count the cost of gas in these buggers) to own a full sized van or even some kind of SVU but, I seriously believe in being ready for anything when you have kiddos. The picture above is the back end of my van. I have a built in box at the top of the picture and it holds things like my fluids (oil, antifreeze, and windshield wiper fluid). It also houses jumper cables, an emergency first aid kit, emergency blankets, flares, and a larger tarp for emergencies.<br />
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Fluids are important for obvious reasons, as are ice scrapers in the winter and an emergency first aid kits. Another thing I think it important to keep on hand in any vehicle are tools. Now, not asking you to be like a mechanic and carry all the wrenches, and ratchets under the sun but, a rubber mallet and/or a simple set of screwdrivers (flat and phillips) will come in handy! Not only for car related things but, if you ever get those toys from a store that are screwed in, you've got the means to undo them and give yourself 5 minutes of peace in a car filled with kids! :) Trust me when I say that as a non-mechanical person, they have come in handy a dozen times over for use just with my vehicles!<br />
Second thing I've found useful is a pair of scissors. Not for any emergency really but, they come in handy after the purchase of items at a store or if you've got something hanging somewhere. You don't need a full on big daddy pair but, the folding kind that comes with a sewing kit is perfect because it takes up very little room. There are myriad of uses for a good pair of scissors though.<br />
I recommend an old telephone book as well. When you get this year's phone book, put last years in your vehicle. This way if you need to find or call someone or a company, you have the means to do so. Another good thing about having the phone book is that most of them have maps in there and if you do not have a local map or atlas in your car, another thing I recommend, then phone books can come in handy. As well as a pen/pencil and paper. To use if you need a license plate number, to exchange insurance information in case of accident or to leave a note on the car for anyone that's come looking for you, that you've gone to get gas at that gas station two miles back.<br />
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Here's some additional info about the things in my built in box in the back.<br />
First, the first aid kit: I remove all medicinal items like burn ointment, antibiotic ointment and any ibuprofen, asprin or tylenol. I do this because the ups and downs of temperature your vehicle experiences will often ruin those items if left there too long. So, instead I pack them in a ziplock bag and toss into my purse. So, that they're still with me but, in a temperature stable area.<br />
Second, the tarp: If you're wondering why there's a tarp in there, tarps are great for many things! For example, they offer a protection from rain and sun if you need it. If for any reason your vehicle breaks down in the middle of nowhere, and you've no tent in your car, it also provides something to lay on that is waterproof, if the ground is wet. You can also make a dandy tent out of one if need be.<br />
Three, the emergency blankets: They're great things to have on hand! They are waterproof, keep body heat in to some degree, reflective material when you hit it with light, can be folded to utilize a small space and are lightweight! I love multitaskers!<br />
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If you're wondering about the sleeping bags. I carry 3 bags for kiddos, one for each of my boys and one in case I have a nephew in tow or their half brother. I carry 3 adult bags as well, again just in case I have family or friends in tow. The bonus is that when I go camping my van is already packed. Yes, I have my tent in there as well! :) Underneath the wooden box, the storage area goes all the way under the back seat! So, I carry the tent, the sleeping bags, and mats to lay on that you'd normally put under your bags but, you can lay on them outright under the stars on a warm night. I also have blankets in case we need them. Inside on the side, I also have a bag full of one change of clothes for the boys and I. Changed out, depending upon the season. <br />
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My purse, while not a designer bag, is mainly used for function. I carry a host of things in there (as all mothers of little ones do) besides the medical ointments and meds in a baggy, I also carry juice and snacks too! "Just in case"! Now, I don't recommend this set up for everyone and I realize that everyone again, does not have the room that I do but, what I do think you should do is start thinking in "what ifs" here. If you've got kids especially, I think being prepared is a good thing! Keep in mind that you can add a hundred things to this list and I have more than mentioned here but, the point is, I would like to make, is to think ahead and be ready for what could happen! Remember to keep your vehicle preps in line with the season too.<br />
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Be safe on the roads and have fun with getting your vehicle prepared, involve the kiddos too. This allows them to not only add special toys to keep in the car, which they will love but, this also gives them an added sense of security as well. They will know where everything is and they will not be alarmed if something were to go wrong! It will also give you peace of mind to know that all your ducks are in a row too.<br />
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This may seem extreme to some city dwellers but, here in farm country, even in a bigger city, chances are you're traveling at some point, several miles away from your home and these things will come in handy! Trust me, I know! :)<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; border-image: initial !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-style: initial !important; border-top-width: 0px !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-569331443646652990.post-21883298391292894352012-04-17T07:00:00.000-05:002012-04-17T19:43:26.482-05:00Not Your Typical Child Tuesday #3Thanks again everyone for understanding this weekend's blackout. Those storms were a bit nasty! Thanks for hanging in with me as we address our 3rd Not Your Typical Child Thursday! Last week we tackled a small bit about Sensory Processing Disorder, this week the one that is almost as personal for me, we discuss OCD.<br />
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We all hear people say it, "I'm so OCD," or "I've got OCD". They all say in jest, heck even I do myself and a bit of a personal thing, I actually do have OCD!! So, do my sons, both of them! When you think of OCD, your typical response is to think of organizational people. The ones with their cans all facing forward in their cupboards, their towels all lined up evenly on the rack, the drawers all organized with clothes folded perfectly or their closets color coded. Yes, to some degree this is OCD and to others it's just functional. For me, with my cans in my cupboard, and the items in my fridge all label forward, it is OCD. Though I have managed to understand that nothing bad will happen if they are not facing forward, I can still feel anxiety creep in if I leave them askew!<br />
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<b><u>So, what is OCD? </u></b><br />
OCD is a neurobiological anxiety disorder (often genetic in nature) that significantly affects 1 in 40 adults and at least 1 in 100 school aged children.<br />
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Obsessions are defined as uncontrollable, persistent worries, doubts or fears that significantly impact normal life. They create unbearable anxiety and often times the person feels compelled to perform rituals or activities (aka compulsions) to relieve the anxiety.<br />
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Compulsions may be either physical or mental rituals that are done over and over and over again in an attempt to control or relieve the anxiety the obsession causes. This is always temporary and just ends up reinforcing the original obsession.<br />
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For children with OCD though, like ASD (autism), SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) or even TS (Tourette Syndrome), it is a spectrum disorder. Most of us have some OCD-ish issues but, you can rationalize that your 'urge' is irrational and move on. Those with OCD honestly feel like something bad is going to happen.<br />
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<u><b>Personal experiences: </b></u><br />
OCD is often recognized in adults and some older kiddos but, for a small few, the signs are evident at an early age. For example, my oldest son, took to hand washing at a whopping 2yrs old. His little brother has just started it at 3 (in case you wonder, he didn't learn it from big bro because, big brother hasn't done it since before little one was born). DW became obsessed with having to put things back EXACTLY in the same spot that they were taken from. Which sounds great but, heaven help you if you were on the way out the door to go somewhere and there is more than one thing out of place. Don't get me started on taking him grocery shopping!! If someone (a stranger) put something back wrong, the whole store knew it! Then he had to "unwind". Which meant that if he crossed in front of you entering the room, he had to cross back on his way out. Or if he walked around the right side of the van to get in, he had to go back the exact same way to go back inside. He started to need things in his bed just so, to get to sleep. I could go on but, I will spare you the whole long history of how his OCD progressed. Keep in mind this is all happening at 2yrs old.<br />
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I'm aware that there are naysayers who will say that this is "learned" behavior. I'm here to tell you that they are dead wrong. Ask any geneticist, they will tell you hands down, it is genetic and the child cannot pick what their OCD focuses on anymore than you can change the color of your eyes. I've heard, "well, you have OCD, so they must've learned it from you"....DW's issues, AND JD's obsessions are NOT mine at all! For example, DW became a hoarder! No joke when I say this, he would panic if you threw out old food, old containers, papers, etc. I even have a friend whose son kept and hid toilet paper....toilet paper used for #1!!! JD, he's obsessed with different things than either DW or I have even considered. JD can't have anyone's things away from them. For example, if you come over and set your purse and coat on my table, he will bring them to you. If you sit them next to you and then follow me into the kitchen for snack, he will bring your coat and purse to you again and again and again. He will not stop! It has worn out many a guest here. He is also obsessed with having flat surfaces, completely bare. Which sounds dandy but, imagine walking into a room everyday and finding the bookcase shelves completely bare. Or every child's bed unmade daily. He also tends to panic if you take a different way to go to and/or from a store or relative's house. Keep in mind that he is only 3yrs old and though DW and I both have OCD, our "issues" are not like his. The ones that JD expresses that are or were similar to DW's are things that DW has long since worked through. So, he'd never seen DW do them.<br />
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<u>Common Obsessions/Compulsions: </u><br />
Contamination fears<br />
Fear of acting on bad impulses, i.e. harming another, insulting another, being the cause of harm to another, etc.<br />
Perfectionism<br />
Washing/Cleaning<br />
Mental compulsions (or as we call them in our house, mental hiccups)<br />
Skin Picking<br />
Trichotillomanina (hair pulling)<br />
Hoarding<br />
Checking<br />
Repeating<br />
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<u>Other Conditions related to or in conjuction with OCD:</u><br />
OCD can come alone or in cohorts with another condition such as Tourette Syndrome, Asperger's, ADHD/ADD, Anxiety Disorders, depression, etc.<br />
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What to do as parent of a child with or suspected of having OCD? My first bit of advice as an adult with OCD, do not wait to get help! Tell your child's pediatrician that you suspect OCD. Take them into a mental health staff member and have them evaluated. If they poo poo you, remember: You're the parent, they work for you! Doctors are great resources but, they are not the be all end all to all medical and psychological information! Remember that the earlier they get help, the easier it will be to overcome it. So, if they stonewall you, get a second opinion. I say this to everything from Asperger's, to SPD! Do what is right and fight, kick and scream for your child. I didn't have to do this to get them help with their OCD, it was that obvious but, I have met parents at their wits ends because their child's doctor kept telling them to wait it out or having a kid who wants things put away is a good thing. Just listen to your gut, you know your child first and foremost! If you're in need of more information or support, a great site that offers you a lot of resources, information and a super supportive <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IOCDF" target="_blank">FB page</a> is, <a href="http://www.ocfoundation.org/index.aspx" target="_blank">International OCD Foundation.</a><br />
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The point of this rather long post today? Again, instead of glaring at that woman whose hair is sticking out in odd places, whose eyes look a little panicked, who may look on the verge of tears and is managing the best she can, with the screaming child in tow, try offering her a kind word instead! That may be the thing that helps her get on with her day with a renewed spirit.<br />
Instead of glaring at the child for something that they can't quite grasp isn't "normal", try to look at them through a new lens and not with contempt.<br />
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Thanks again for hanging with me for another Tuesday, just a few more weeks and I'll return to normal blogs having gone through the 2/3 awareness months that are near and dear to my heart! Now, back to your regularly scheduled program...<br />
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/41/B1338409F3EE1786A78E93672AA32CED.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>JandDsmomhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06689321414639644553noreply@blogger.com0