Sunday, December 30, 2007
Happy New Year!
“It is proper during this season when we commemorate His birth that we remember the Lord Jesus Christ in reverence and with love. He has done for us what we could not do for ourselves. He has brought meaning to our mortal existence. He has given us the gift of eternal life.”
-Gordon B. Hinckley
Dear Family and Friends,
Greetings! We hope this finds you happy and well. What a wonderful time of year it is!
Ellie was born on April 27 this year, and what a blessed little joy she is! I’m telling you, this gal was born happy. She has brought such happiness to our lives. Today she was jumping around in her little door jumper, smiling and laughing proudly. Cutie. Her bright smile makes me so happy. I catch a glimpse of heaven when I look at her. She only just recently relocated from there!
Some time ago I walked into the living room, and Amelia had tucked her little dolls in ‘bed’ on the floor with Ellie’s play mat. I looked around, and there were little beds all over the room. She does this on a regular basis now. She also says the funniest things. Nowadays, if she gets an owwie, she’ll come in and say in her cute little voice something like, “Mom! The floor said, ‘come over here and slip! Get a booboo!” or, “The chair said, ‘come get a bonk!’ and I said, ‘no!’, and the chair said, ‘heh, heh, heh!’” You should hear her ‘mischievous’ voice. She’s a riot.
We haven’t had to go to the ER in over a year, and what a welcome change that is! She has clinically outgrown her peanut allergy, but we haven’t dared give her nuts yet. Her allergist also believes she’ll soon outgrow her dairy allergy, and she’s now able to eat fish. We had salmon for dinner. Mmm. We were told there’s only about a 20% chance per allergy that she’ll outgrow them. All of her allergen levels have gone down, and some have disappeared, so we feel extraordinarily blessed. Now we avoid all dairy and egg, but maybe someday she’ll get to have chocolate chip cookies!
Ellie appears to have some food allergies, or at least sensitivities. We won’t know for sure until she is tested when she’s a little bit older. We know what to look out for now, so I feel much more prepared.
It was Matt’s turn for a near death experience this year. He had gone into the VA for a GI scope. This is a routine, non-invasive procedure. I’ll sum up the ensuing suffering by saying that 5 days later he was at work and had to tell his boss, “I think I need to go to the ER.” By the time he got there (again, VA) he was almost in need of a blood transfusion. They had clipped him during the GI scope and he had nearly bled to death. He lost quite a bit of weight and was in the hospital for 3 days. He is NEVER going back to the VA! After recovering from this harrowing incident, Matt has decided to go to grad school! He took the GRE and will be applying for a mechanical engineering master’s program.
I have tried to keep busy this year. Recently I’ve taken up the ukulele and can be heard plucking stirring renditions of “Happy Birthday to You.” I just got some Hawaiian ukulele music books from the early 1900s with high ambitions of one day being able to pay the hukilau song. Our family also has taken up rockhounding! So far this year we have found a glamorous array of geodes, agates, apache tears and topaz! Not to mention radioactive fluorite from the West Desert (we decided to let the U of U geology department keep that lucky find).
So that is how we are! We are so grateful to know each of you. Our lives are enriched and blessed by each family member and friend, and we feel so very thankful to have you. May your Christmas be a memorable one, and this coming year full of happiness and achieved goals.
Most sincerely,
Kathryn, Matt, Amelia and Ellie
Amelia's first written words: "To Dad"
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Water Storage: Suggestions for How to Store Water Safely
Water is the most important thing to have in an emergency. (Okay, okay, it depends on the emergency. You can, however, only last so long without clean water to drink.) So, here are my suggestions for how to store it. I have sited sources used.
How to Store Water
Pre-Storage Treatments:
No additional household bleach is needed when water comes directly from a good pre-treated municipal water supply.
Add 8 drops (1/2 tsp.) household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite) per gallon of water if the water is clear and not chlorinated. *See Disinfection below.
Add 16 drops (1 tsp.) of bleach per gallon if water is cloudy.
Water Storage Containers:
Plastic juice or soda bottles (made of PETE plastic) are the best. They should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed prior to use. Don’t use milk jugs, as they degrade.
Food Grade heavy plastic buckets or drums. (NEVER use containers that have held chemicals, bleach, or other non-food items.)
Protect water storage containers from light and heat. Algae can grow if water is exposed to light. Store in areas where leakage will not cause damage to the home. Rotate water every 6 months.
Emergency Outdoor Water Sources:
*rainwater *ponds and lakes *natural springs *streams and rivers
Note: NEVER use flood water. Avoid water with floating material, an odor or dark color. Only use saltwater if you first distill it.
Filter out organic material and silt first by using a clean cloth or coffee filter and funnel.
Pre-Use Treatments
If the water isn’t pure, use a combination of methods below:
Filtration: There are many good water filters on the market. Get one with activated carbon elements which help remove some chemical elements. Look for a filter system that has a pre-filter before the micro-filter. Micro-filter should be removable or field cleanable. Some models also add chemicals to kill bacteria. Do your homework.
Disinfection: You can use household bleach to kill microorganisms. Use only regular household liquid bleach that contains 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. Don’t use scented bleaches, color safe bleaches or bleaches with added cleaners.
Method: Add 16 drops of bleach per gallon of water, stir and let stand 30 mn. If water doesn’t have a slight bleach odor, repeat the dosage and let stand another 15 mn.
*The only agent used to treat water should be liquid bleach. Other chemicals such as iodine or water treatment products sold in camping stores that don’t contain 5.25% sodium hypochlorite as the only active ingredient aren’t recommended and shouldn’t be used.
Boiling: Boil water for 3-5 minutes plus 1 additional minute for every 1,000 feet in elevation.
Distilling: While the aforementioned methods kill most microbes, distillation will remove microbes, heavy metals, salt and most other chemicals. Distillation involves boiling water and then collecting the vapor that condenses back to water.
To distill, fill a pot halfway with water. Tie a cup to the handle on the pot’s lid so that the cup will hang right side up when the lid is upside down (make sure the cup isn’t hanging into the water) and boil for 20 mn. The water that drips from the lid into the cup is distilled. You may also buy distillation equipment, but it is expensive. Also, distillation is a slow process.
*Water can go flat with storage and after boiling. Aerate it by pouring the water back and forth between two containers.
*Hide that bleachy taste with a powdered drink mix.
*Do you know the location of your incoming water valve? You’ll need to shut it off in an emergency to stop contaminated water from entering your home in the event of broken water or sewage lines.
*To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by turning on the faucet at the highest level in your house. A small amount of water will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest faucet in the house.
*To use the water in your hot water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve and turning on a hot water faucet. Don’t turn on the gas or electricity when the tank is empty.
*If supplies run low, never ration water. Drink the amount you need today, and try to find more for tomorrow. You can minimize the amount of water you need by reducing activity and staying cool.
Sources: FEMA, providentliving.org, Red Cross
“Preparing for Disaster.” Developed by the American Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency.
http://www.providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,2246-1-1125-1,00.html
Get your free FEMA disaster preparedness book, “Are You Ready?” 1-800-480-2520
How to Store Water
Pre-Storage Treatments:
No additional household bleach is needed when water comes directly from a good pre-treated municipal water supply.
Add 8 drops (1/2 tsp.) household bleach (5.25% sodium hypochlorite) per gallon of water if the water is clear and not chlorinated. *See Disinfection below.
Add 16 drops (1 tsp.) of bleach per gallon if water is cloudy.
Water Storage Containers:
Plastic juice or soda bottles (made of PETE plastic) are the best. They should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed prior to use. Don’t use milk jugs, as they degrade.
Food Grade heavy plastic buckets or drums. (NEVER use containers that have held chemicals, bleach, or other non-food items.)
Protect water storage containers from light and heat. Algae can grow if water is exposed to light. Store in areas where leakage will not cause damage to the home. Rotate water every 6 months.
Emergency Outdoor Water Sources:
*rainwater *ponds and lakes *natural springs *streams and rivers
Note: NEVER use flood water. Avoid water with floating material, an odor or dark color. Only use saltwater if you first distill it.
Filter out organic material and silt first by using a clean cloth or coffee filter and funnel.
Pre-Use Treatments
If the water isn’t pure, use a combination of methods below:
Filtration: There are many good water filters on the market. Get one with activated carbon elements which help remove some chemical elements. Look for a filter system that has a pre-filter before the micro-filter. Micro-filter should be removable or field cleanable. Some models also add chemicals to kill bacteria. Do your homework.
Disinfection: You can use household bleach to kill microorganisms. Use only regular household liquid bleach that contains 5.25% sodium hypochlorite. Don’t use scented bleaches, color safe bleaches or bleaches with added cleaners.
Method: Add 16 drops of bleach per gallon of water, stir and let stand 30 mn. If water doesn’t have a slight bleach odor, repeat the dosage and let stand another 15 mn.
*The only agent used to treat water should be liquid bleach. Other chemicals such as iodine or water treatment products sold in camping stores that don’t contain 5.25% sodium hypochlorite as the only active ingredient aren’t recommended and shouldn’t be used.
Boiling: Boil water for 3-5 minutes plus 1 additional minute for every 1,000 feet in elevation.
Distilling: While the aforementioned methods kill most microbes, distillation will remove microbes, heavy metals, salt and most other chemicals. Distillation involves boiling water and then collecting the vapor that condenses back to water.
To distill, fill a pot halfway with water. Tie a cup to the handle on the pot’s lid so that the cup will hang right side up when the lid is upside down (make sure the cup isn’t hanging into the water) and boil for 20 mn. The water that drips from the lid into the cup is distilled. You may also buy distillation equipment, but it is expensive. Also, distillation is a slow process.
*Water can go flat with storage and after boiling. Aerate it by pouring the water back and forth between two containers.
*Hide that bleachy taste with a powdered drink mix.
*Do you know the location of your incoming water valve? You’ll need to shut it off in an emergency to stop contaminated water from entering your home in the event of broken water or sewage lines.
*To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by turning on the faucet at the highest level in your house. A small amount of water will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest faucet in the house.
*To use the water in your hot water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve and turning on a hot water faucet. Don’t turn on the gas or electricity when the tank is empty.
*If supplies run low, never ration water. Drink the amount you need today, and try to find more for tomorrow. You can minimize the amount of water you need by reducing activity and staying cool.
Sources: FEMA, providentliving.org, Red Cross
“Preparing for Disaster.” Developed by the American Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency.
http://www.providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,2246-1-1125-1,00.html
Get your free FEMA disaster preparedness book, “Are You Ready?” 1-800-480-2520
Checklist / How to make a 72 hour emergency preparedness kit
I think that it's essential to have a 72 hour kit. So, I have compiled the following helper to get you on your way. These are only my suggestions, based on research I have done as sited.
During an emergency, you may be evacuated and only have minutes to gather what you need. If you have a kit, you're good to go!
1- Water
* one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
* Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Additional items you may consider adding:
* Water purifier
* Bandanna / coffee filter to filter out large sediment
* Drink mix to add to purified water to improve taste
2- Food
* At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
* Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food. Note, 'poptop' cans may pop open in kit!)
* Ways to prepare food such as solar oven, barbecue and charcoal, wood, Sterno, etc.)
* Infant formula
* Pet food and extra water for your pet (where applicable)
* Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
* Matches in a waterproof container (matches can be made waterproof by dipping in wax)
3- Clothing / comfort items[1]
* Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
* Underwear
* Warm socks
* Rain gear: umbrella, waterproof coat/poncho
* coat, hat, gloves, thermal underwear
* Sunglasses
* Work gloves
* Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
* Pictures of the family
4- Hygiene / Sanitation
* Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air
* Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
* Household bleach for disinfecting contaminated areas
* Rags to clean with
* Rubber gloves for cleaning
* diapers (where applicable)
* Hand sanitizer
* Soap
* Toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, fingernail clippers, feminine hygiene products, comb
* Toilet paper
5- First Aid Kits
Things you should have:
* Two pairs of Latex, or other sterile gloves (if you are allergic to Latex).
* Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.
* Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect.
* Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
* Burn ointment to prevent infection.
* Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.
* Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant.
* Thermometer
* Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.
* Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.
Things it may be good to have:
* Scissors
* Tweezers
* Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
* A handy first aid book
Non-prescription drugs:
* Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
* Anti-diarrhea medication
* Antacid (for upset stomach)
* Laxative
6- Important Documents / Money / etc.[2]
* Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, wedding certificates, identification, medical insurance and Medicare cards, family records, medical records, wills, deeds, social security number, charge and bank accounts information, tax records, immunizations records and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
* Cash or traveler's checks and change ($100 is recommended)
* Meeting plan – where to meet family in case of emergency. This should be a place outside of the home. A backup place should also be agreed upon.
* Evacuation plan – how to get out of the house in case of emergency. You should practice with family how to get out of each room of the house, preferably 2 ways out of each room. Also, evacuation plan for how to leave the city. This should include all possible routes. Consult local map and map out evacuation routes.
* Contact list. This should include a contact person outside of the state family members can contact in case of separation.
* Local maps with evacuation routes highlighted
CONTACT LIST / IMPORTANT NUMBERS:
Police: 911
Fire Department: 911
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Doctor: fill in appropriate numbers
Dentist: "
Family contact: "
Father / Mother / Spouse’s work:Child’s school: "
7- Shelter and other essentials
* Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
* Paper and pencil
* Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
* Flashlight and extra batteries
* Whistle to signal for help
* Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place and rope OR pup tent / small tent
* Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
* Prescription glasses
For Baby:
* Formula * Diaper Rash Ointment
* Diapers * Moist Towelettes
* Bottles * Medications
* Powdered Milk * Clothing items as described above
You may also want to include:
* Axe * Mirror (for signaling, shaving, etc.)
* Cell Phone * Ear plugs
* Fire Extinguisher
This was compiled with help from the following Handy References:
http://www.ready.gov/
www.fema.gov/areyouready? Call: 1-800-480-2520 for a free disaster preparedness manual
http://www.redcross.org/
http://www.providentliving.org/
Additionally:
Review/update your supplies regularly, especially if you have growing children. Check your kits 2x / year at General Conference Time. During this time rotate your water and food. (This is also a good time to check smoke / carbon monoxide detectors and rotate batteries). Also, rotate medical supplies as needed and clothing / diapers for growing children / babies. Always keep your car at least half full of gas in case of immediate evacuation. If you don’t have a car, arrange with a support network that can take you along in case of evacuation, and to check on you in case of emergency. It is wise to keep a written list of all items in your kit along with expiration dates so you can just check the list every 6 months. Store your items in an easy to carry container and easily accessible place. Keep first aid kits, water, food, and warm blankets in your car as well. IMPORTANT: Make sure your kit is easy to grab and carry-able. Ta Da!
[1] You may want to include a red/orange/lime green shirt or other clothing item, as these colors are easy for rescuers to spot.
[2] scan your documents (ID, passport, prescriptions, etc.) and email the images to yourself on a secure Internet server. This doesn't replace the photocopies you should carry with you, but it does give you a backup if all other copies are destroyed.
During an emergency, you may be evacuated and only have minutes to gather what you need. If you have a kit, you're good to go!
1- Water
* one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
* Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.
Additional items you may consider adding:
* Water purifier
* Bandanna / coffee filter to filter out large sediment
* Drink mix to add to purified water to improve taste
2- Food
* At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
* Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food. Note, 'poptop' cans may pop open in kit!)
* Ways to prepare food such as solar oven, barbecue and charcoal, wood, Sterno, etc.)
* Infant formula
* Pet food and extra water for your pet (where applicable)
* Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
* Matches in a waterproof container (matches can be made waterproof by dipping in wax)
3- Clothing / comfort items[1]
* Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.
* Underwear
* Warm socks
* Rain gear: umbrella, waterproof coat/poncho
* coat, hat, gloves, thermal underwear
* Sunglasses
* Work gloves
* Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
* Pictures of the family
4- Hygiene / Sanitation
* Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air
* Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
* Household bleach for disinfecting contaminated areas
* Rags to clean with
* Rubber gloves for cleaning
* diapers (where applicable)
* Hand sanitizer
* Soap
* Toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, fingernail clippers, feminine hygiene products, comb
* Toilet paper
5- First Aid Kits
Things you should have:
* Two pairs of Latex, or other sterile gloves (if you are allergic to Latex).
* Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.
* Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect.
* Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
* Burn ointment to prevent infection.
* Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.
* Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant.
* Thermometer
* Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.
* Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.
Things it may be good to have:
* Scissors
* Tweezers
* Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant
* A handy first aid book
Non-prescription drugs:
* Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
* Anti-diarrhea medication
* Antacid (for upset stomach)
* Laxative
6- Important Documents / Money / etc.[2]
* Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, wedding certificates, identification, medical insurance and Medicare cards, family records, medical records, wills, deeds, social security number, charge and bank accounts information, tax records, immunizations records and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.
* Cash or traveler's checks and change ($100 is recommended)
* Meeting plan – where to meet family in case of emergency. This should be a place outside of the home. A backup place should also be agreed upon.
* Evacuation plan – how to get out of the house in case of emergency. You should practice with family how to get out of each room of the house, preferably 2 ways out of each room. Also, evacuation plan for how to leave the city. This should include all possible routes. Consult local map and map out evacuation routes.
* Contact list. This should include a contact person outside of the state family members can contact in case of separation.
* Local maps with evacuation routes highlighted
CONTACT LIST / IMPORTANT NUMBERS:
Police: 911
Fire Department: 911
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Doctor: fill in appropriate numbers
Dentist: "
Family contact: "
Father / Mother / Spouse’s work:Child’s school: "
7- Shelter and other essentials
* Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.
* Paper and pencil
* Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
* Flashlight and extra batteries
* Whistle to signal for help
* Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place and rope OR pup tent / small tent
* Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
* Prescription glasses
For Baby:
* Formula * Diaper Rash Ointment
* Diapers * Moist Towelettes
* Bottles * Medications
* Powdered Milk * Clothing items as described above
You may also want to include:
* Axe * Mirror (for signaling, shaving, etc.)
* Cell Phone * Ear plugs
* Fire Extinguisher
This was compiled with help from the following Handy References:
http://www.ready.gov/
www.fema.gov/areyouready? Call: 1-800-480-2520 for a free disaster preparedness manual
http://www.redcross.org/
http://www.providentliving.org/
Additionally:
Review/update your supplies regularly, especially if you have growing children. Check your kits 2x / year at General Conference Time. During this time rotate your water and food. (This is also a good time to check smoke / carbon monoxide detectors and rotate batteries). Also, rotate medical supplies as needed and clothing / diapers for growing children / babies. Always keep your car at least half full of gas in case of immediate evacuation. If you don’t have a car, arrange with a support network that can take you along in case of evacuation, and to check on you in case of emergency. It is wise to keep a written list of all items in your kit along with expiration dates so you can just check the list every 6 months. Store your items in an easy to carry container and easily accessible place. Keep first aid kits, water, food, and warm blankets in your car as well. IMPORTANT: Make sure your kit is easy to grab and carry-able. Ta Da!
[1] You may want to include a red/orange/lime green shirt or other clothing item, as these colors are easy for rescuers to spot.
[2] scan your documents (ID, passport, prescriptions, etc.) and email the images to yourself on a secure Internet server. This doesn't replace the photocopies you should carry with you, but it does give you a backup if all other copies are destroyed.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Sticky Situation
Today I finished a necklace I was making. After I tied the knot, I decided that it looked like it needed some reinforcing. So, I went onto the back porch and grabbed our superglue. It is actually called 'Krazy Glue', and now I know why.
I tried to put the tiniest bit onto my knot. It wouldn't come out, so I squeezed a little harder. Still stuck. A little bit more and...
KaSPLAT!
All over my finger, my necklace, the railing and who knows where else!!!
I ran to the sink, envisioning the purple necklace stuck to my hand through the holidays.
"This old thing, oh, just accessorizing!"
Luckily, it came off, but the superglue? Not so much.
Nice.
I tried to put the tiniest bit onto my knot. It wouldn't come out, so I squeezed a little harder. Still stuck. A little bit more and...
KaSPLAT!
All over my finger, my necklace, the railing and who knows where else!!!
I ran to the sink, envisioning the purple necklace stuck to my hand through the holidays.
"This old thing, oh, just accessorizing!"
Luckily, it came off, but the superglue? Not so much.
Nice.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
WOO HOO!
We got a call from Amelia's allergist's office yesterday....
HER MILK ALLERGY IS ALMOST GONE!!!
Hurray, hurray!
She is going to go up to the RTU at Primary's and have a milk challenge in the Spring. Happy Day!
Her egg allergy is still threatening, but it also went down. I was so worried about the prospects of sending her to school if she still had these allergies. It seems almost like a dream to think that someday maybe I won't feel like the world is filled with allergen poison!
We feel so blessed! Yay!
HER MILK ALLERGY IS ALMOST GONE!!!
Hurray, hurray!
She is going to go up to the RTU at Primary's and have a milk challenge in the Spring. Happy Day!
Her egg allergy is still threatening, but it also went down. I was so worried about the prospects of sending her to school if she still had these allergies. It seems almost like a dream to think that someday maybe I won't feel like the world is filled with allergen poison!
We feel so blessed! Yay!
Sock Wars
So I read an article in the Wall Street Journal the other day that just had me rolling. It also created an indescribable urge to learn how to knit!
Check it out at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB119766934184930123.html?mod=ONLX
So funny. (Read the article first, much funnier than the video).
Check it out at:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB119766934184930123.html?mod=ONLX
So funny. (Read the article first, much funnier than the video).
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Matt took Amelia to Primary Children's Medical Center yesterday to get a blood test. She has multiple severe food allergies, and has to be tested at least once a year to see where her allergen levels are. It's called a RAST test.
Amelia came home with her battle wound. Usually she does very well, and sometimes doesn't cry at all.
"Mommy, I cried!" she said, pointing to her poke.
Matt said it was somewhat traumatic, they had a hard time drawing her blood.
It's always traumatic to see your child in pain.
I thought back two years ago, when Amelia was 1o months old. We had gone to Market Street Broiler for my mom's birthday. The doctor had mentioned we could start giving her dairy. So, we gave her a small bite of ice cream. Instantly her face swelled, bright red and she couldn't breath. She choked and coughed up mucous. I didn't know what was going on. We rushed her to the doctor, where they gave her benedryl and ordered blood tests. We were told she had had anaphylactic shock, and the suspects were milk or eggs. "Impossible," I thought. I didn't know people could be allergic to milk. And, certainly not my little girl.
I was in the waiting room of Amelia's doctor's office some weeks later. Dr. Suzanne Holbrook, (the best pediatrician who ever lived) crouched down next to me with the test results. She started naming off Amelia's allergens, "eggs, dairy, peanuts..."
"STOP!" I agonized mentally. I couldn't believe what she was saying, and certainly didn't comprehend it.
"...crab, wheat." She explained what this meant, but I didn't understand a word. My mind was reeling.
Then, she looked at me and said, "Kathryn, she's yours for a reason."
I thanked her, took the paperwork home, and studied everything I could get my hands on about allergies.
I learned that true food allergies are an auto-immune disease. The body overreacts to the allergen, releasing histamines and something called IgE (immunoglobulin E). Food allergies are different than intolerances. Lactose intolerance will cause discomfort if milk is ingested, but a dairy allergy can be fatal even if exposed to the tiniest bit.
We avoided all dairy, egg, nut, fish, shellfish and wheat products while we waited 6 months to see Jan Broadbent (she's the best allergist in the state, and I dare say one of the best around anywhere). She told us Amelia wasn't allergic to wheat, but to completely avoid everything else.
Thankfully, our little gal has outgrown her peanut allergy and her shellfish/fish allergy. Considering that there is only a 20% chance of that happening per allergy, we feel incredibly blessed! We still haven't given her peanuts, we're too scared, but we had salmon for dinner just the other day, and she loves shrimp.
I looked at my little girl, her sparkly star bandage and tear-stained cheeks, and hugged her tight. Maybe someday she'll be able to have milk, omelets, and pizza... but for now we carry epinephrine shots and benedryl everywhere we go.
Learn a little more about milk allergies:
http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/conditions/11/12/milk.allergy/index.html?section=cnn_latest
To learn even more about allergies, go to the bottom of the page and click on the links.
Amelia came home with her battle wound. Usually she does very well, and sometimes doesn't cry at all.
"Mommy, I cried!" she said, pointing to her poke.
Matt said it was somewhat traumatic, they had a hard time drawing her blood.
It's always traumatic to see your child in pain.
I thought back two years ago, when Amelia was 1o months old. We had gone to Market Street Broiler for my mom's birthday. The doctor had mentioned we could start giving her dairy. So, we gave her a small bite of ice cream. Instantly her face swelled, bright red and she couldn't breath. She choked and coughed up mucous. I didn't know what was going on. We rushed her to the doctor, where they gave her benedryl and ordered blood tests. We were told she had had anaphylactic shock, and the suspects were milk or eggs. "Impossible," I thought. I didn't know people could be allergic to milk. And, certainly not my little girl.
I was in the waiting room of Amelia's doctor's office some weeks later. Dr. Suzanne Holbrook, (the best pediatrician who ever lived) crouched down next to me with the test results. She started naming off Amelia's allergens, "eggs, dairy, peanuts..."
"STOP!" I agonized mentally. I couldn't believe what she was saying, and certainly didn't comprehend it.
"...crab, wheat." She explained what this meant, but I didn't understand a word. My mind was reeling.
Then, she looked at me and said, "Kathryn, she's yours for a reason."
I thanked her, took the paperwork home, and studied everything I could get my hands on about allergies.
I learned that true food allergies are an auto-immune disease. The body overreacts to the allergen, releasing histamines and something called IgE (immunoglobulin E). Food allergies are different than intolerances. Lactose intolerance will cause discomfort if milk is ingested, but a dairy allergy can be fatal even if exposed to the tiniest bit.
We avoided all dairy, egg, nut, fish, shellfish and wheat products while we waited 6 months to see Jan Broadbent (she's the best allergist in the state, and I dare say one of the best around anywhere). She told us Amelia wasn't allergic to wheat, but to completely avoid everything else.
Thankfully, our little gal has outgrown her peanut allergy and her shellfish/fish allergy. Considering that there is only a 20% chance of that happening per allergy, we feel incredibly blessed! We still haven't given her peanuts, we're too scared, but we had salmon for dinner just the other day, and she loves shrimp.
I looked at my little girl, her sparkly star bandage and tear-stained cheeks, and hugged her tight. Maybe someday she'll be able to have milk, omelets, and pizza... but for now we carry epinephrine shots and benedryl everywhere we go.
Learn a little more about milk allergies:
http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/conditions/11/12/milk.allergy/index.html?section=cnn_latest
To learn even more about allergies, go to the bottom of the page and click on the links.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
political soapbox
Someone asked me the other day if I was a Republican. I cringed at the thought of answering. Yes, it is true that I live in the Red State of Utah. And I’ll even admit that I am a registered Republican, for the sole purpose of being able to vote in the primaries and go to caucuses, but I’d rather not profess loyalty to any one party.
It’s just another label I’d rather avoid.
It seems like these parties are creating divides within our political system which make passing legislation next to impossible. Why can’t we just work together on issues that really matter? No one party shares all of my values, and for me, voting for someone just because they are from a particular party is selling my vote cheaply. It’s as ludicrous as voting for someone because they are a woman or because they are black or white or because of their religion.
What does this person believe about abortion? What are they going to do about the health care system? Who is going to clean up our environment? Who is going to pay for it?
Where is the candidate that practices what they preach? The one who continually tackles problems with positive outcomes? Which candidate treats those around them civilly and respectfully? Can any one of them balance the budget!
Furthermore, I am troubled by the constant media buzz featuring forerunning candidates for president. The news has been littered with controversial stories targeting presidential hopefuls based on such issues as race, religion and gender.
It seems obvious that you cannot judge the fundamental character of a person based on personal bigotry, chauvinism, racism, or by other such demeaning methods. Why then judge the competency of a presidential candidate based on religion, race, or gender? If one has not studied the doctrines of another’s faith, how can they judge with integrity whether or not that person’s religion will be a detrimental factor in holding the office of president? Why would the color of one’s skin determine whether or not they are capable of understanding the American people? Why can’t a woman change the course of America for the better?
I will not vote for Hilary Clinton because she is a woman. I will not vote for Barack Obama because he is black. And I will not vote for Mitt Romney because he is a Mormon. I believe that candidates should be voted for based on their merit. What have these people accomplished? Where do they stand on issues that impact the American people? Is their conduct morally consistent with what they profess to stand for?
In short, I believe that if a candidate were elected because she is a woman, or because he is a Mormon, or because he is black, he or she would have been elected for the wrong reason.
So, don’t ask me if I am a Republican, because I just may ask you who you are going to vote for. Or worse: why.
It’s just another label I’d rather avoid.
It seems like these parties are creating divides within our political system which make passing legislation next to impossible. Why can’t we just work together on issues that really matter? No one party shares all of my values, and for me, voting for someone just because they are from a particular party is selling my vote cheaply. It’s as ludicrous as voting for someone because they are a woman or because they are black or white or because of their religion.
What does this person believe about abortion? What are they going to do about the health care system? Who is going to clean up our environment? Who is going to pay for it?
Where is the candidate that practices what they preach? The one who continually tackles problems with positive outcomes? Which candidate treats those around them civilly and respectfully? Can any one of them balance the budget!
Furthermore, I am troubled by the constant media buzz featuring forerunning candidates for president. The news has been littered with controversial stories targeting presidential hopefuls based on such issues as race, religion and gender.
It seems obvious that you cannot judge the fundamental character of a person based on personal bigotry, chauvinism, racism, or by other such demeaning methods. Why then judge the competency of a presidential candidate based on religion, race, or gender? If one has not studied the doctrines of another’s faith, how can they judge with integrity whether or not that person’s religion will be a detrimental factor in holding the office of president? Why would the color of one’s skin determine whether or not they are capable of understanding the American people? Why can’t a woman change the course of America for the better?
I will not vote for Hilary Clinton because she is a woman. I will not vote for Barack Obama because he is black. And I will not vote for Mitt Romney because he is a Mormon. I believe that candidates should be voted for based on their merit. What have these people accomplished? Where do they stand on issues that impact the American people? Is their conduct morally consistent with what they profess to stand for?
In short, I believe that if a candidate were elected because she is a woman, or because he is a Mormon, or because he is black, he or she would have been elected for the wrong reason.
So, don’t ask me if I am a Republican, because I just may ask you who you are going to vote for. Or worse: why.
Friday, December 7, 2007
caveat emptor
Amelia found some coins on my dresser the other day. I had hitherto kept them from her due to their chokable qualities. Pennies have zinc on the inside which can be very, very dangerous to little G.I. tracts (or any tracts, for that matter). Besides, I figured I'd wait until she appreciated the value of money. You know, good pay for a job well done type thing. Then I realized, she has done lots of jobs very well. It was time, I decided, to teach Amelia about the wonders of money.
I had in mind a lovely conversation that would educate my little 3-year-old about money as:
a medium of exchange
a way to invest in the future by saving today!
what we are paid, as in wages in exchange for work
etc, etc.
I figured it was time to impart of my knowledge (I have to use my economics degree for something!)
We searched around the house and found a cute little purse with a zipper and a button to keep her money safe. There was a green, plastic coin inside with a 4 leaf clover on it from St. Patty's day.
"Here, Amelia, put your money in here!"
Soon I was teaching Amelia about not leaving her money on the carpet where Ellie could choke on it. I gave up on the idea of a financially savvy toddler, and put her purse on the piano.
Later, Amelia ran in with her money.
"Mom, money are my favorites!"
Well, I guess I taught her something.
I had in mind a lovely conversation that would educate my little 3-year-old about money as:
a medium of exchange
a way to invest in the future by saving today!
what we are paid, as in wages in exchange for work
etc, etc.
I figured it was time to impart of my knowledge (I have to use my economics degree for something!)
We searched around the house and found a cute little purse with a zipper and a button to keep her money safe. There was a green, plastic coin inside with a 4 leaf clover on it from St. Patty's day.
"Here, Amelia, put your money in here!"
Soon I was teaching Amelia about not leaving her money on the carpet where Ellie could choke on it. I gave up on the idea of a financially savvy toddler, and put her purse on the piano.
Later, Amelia ran in with her money.
"Mom, money are my favorites!"
Well, I guess I taught her something.
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