Nigeria Team updates for today:
Left Otutulu at 7AM their time this morning. That's 1AM our time. They were going to stop by the new sight of the baby orphange - Lokoja.
Then on to a Hilton in Abuja. At about 6AM our time, (about noon in Nigeria) Julie posted this on lamplightmissions.blogspot.com
"Just left the Hilton and everyone is now fresh as a daisy! Lots of praises being lifted up for water pressure and heat. Awesome!!! Heading now for the airport. Let the adventure begin! ;)"
For us here at home:
Student Impact Mission Trip to Jamaica starts today. Lift them all up in prayer as the head out to do some work at a
First service at church. Guest Speaker for Student Impact: Frank Ritchie provided an awesome message about wrestling with God.
Home for quick lunch and nap (for both Mamaw and Ray :-)
Then swimming party for Ray's friend Bryce.
Then back to grocery store - remembered a few more things the travelers might want later in the week.
Now trying to get all my work done, while doing activity book with Ray. I'm a bit challenged right now with patience. Sigh...only about 23 more hours.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Winding Down
Another scorpion under a little plastic container. Dead I think ...but doesn't matter - I cannot pick it up - need TJ/Jessie for that.
Thanks to several replies on what to do for dinner on Monday, it will be low key. I'll have stuff in the fridge that they like if they want it. But nothing big for a few days. Plan to grill steak maybe over the weekend.
Yesterday and today were easy.
Wonderful time at Adrienne's Birthday Pool Party last night. Great guacamole, fruit salsa, watermelon, Susan's salsa, home-made ice cream and ice cream cake.
It will be nice when Ray can be a bit more independent in the pool. Patsy's star floaty is great - Ray was able to be more on his own. Thanks much to Paul B, Kate, Tammy and Patsy for keeping an eye on him while I dried off a bit.
Winnie the Pooh movie this afternoon with the Bows, Leachman's, Vonderhaar's and the 4 youngest Styskals. Ray's first movie theater experience - even had popcorn. He had a great time. Great idea Barb.
Laundry all done (so the washer/dryer are fully available for the mounds of Nigeria clothes). Chickens have full water. Feed Store for Dog Food (so TJ won't have to go for a few weeks), grocery store for favorites like bagels, sausage, yogurt and fruit. Tomorrow: try to figure out how to load daily feeder for chickens - so TJ won't have to feed for a few days.
Trying to get things done, so that when they get back, TJ and Jessie have as little do as possible for a few days. (Although they DO have to deal with the scorpions at some point.)
Thanks to several replies on what to do for dinner on Monday, it will be low key. I'll have stuff in the fridge that they like if they want it. But nothing big for a few days. Plan to grill steak maybe over the weekend.
Yesterday and today were easy.
Wonderful time at Adrienne's Birthday Pool Party last night. Great guacamole, fruit salsa, watermelon, Susan's salsa, home-made ice cream and ice cream cake.
It will be nice when Ray can be a bit more independent in the pool. Patsy's star floaty is great - Ray was able to be more on his own. Thanks much to Paul B, Kate, Tammy and Patsy for keeping an eye on him while I dried off a bit.
Winnie the Pooh movie this afternoon with the Bows, Leachman's, Vonderhaar's and the 4 youngest Styskals. Ray's first movie theater experience - even had popcorn. He had a great time. Great idea Barb.
Laundry all done (so the washer/dryer are fully available for the mounds of Nigeria clothes). Chickens have full water. Feed Store for Dog Food (so TJ won't have to go for a few weeks), grocery store for favorites like bagels, sausage, yogurt and fruit. Tomorrow: try to figure out how to load daily feeder for chickens - so TJ won't have to feed for a few days.
Trying to get things done, so that when they get back, TJ and Jessie have as little do as possible for a few days. (Although they DO have to deal with the scorpions at some point.)
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Scorpion
Almost forgot.
Of course with TJ and Jessie gone, there would be a scorpion. Duh!!!...should have been anticipating this.
So there is a scorpion under a tupperware thingy in the kids' bathroom - awaiting Jessie or TJ to handle it - because I cannot. It may be dead - I don't know, I don't care. I'm pleased with myself that I didn't scream, or freak out. I just had Ray watch (from a distance) that it didn't move - and got the tupperware thingy to put over it.
Of course with TJ and Jessie gone, there would be a scorpion. Duh!!!...should have been anticipating this.
So there is a scorpion under a tupperware thingy in the kids' bathroom - awaiting Jessie or TJ to handle it - because I cannot. It may be dead - I don't know, I don't care. I'm pleased with myself that I didn't scream, or freak out. I just had Ray watch (from a distance) that it didn't move - and got the tupperware thingy to put over it.
AC fixed, Less Driving, Swim Lessons Over
Eight hours of blissfully cool sleep in the RV. Something to be said for not being able to "watch a little TV" (which sometimes means getting caught up in a show and staying up too late). Ray was in bed by 9, and after a little computer time, I turned the light out at 10. That was more sleep than I've had since TJ's been gone. AND there wasn't a dog in the room snoring, panting or eating to interrupt my sleep - Sadie had to sleep outside - no way was she coming in the RV! It was cooler outside than in the house - so much better for her that I locked her out of the house.
Kenny - Hunter Malatek's friend/co-worker arrived promptly at 8:30. Figures out the problem and has it fixed in about 30 minutes. Awesome. Have a great conversation with Kenny about church and mission trips and serving homeless folks. Go figure - God is even in the encounter with the A/C guy :-)
I've done less driving than I orginally planned. Was supposed to do DelRio/Uvalde today and then Laredo tomorrow. But yesterday morning, I just couldn't see myself pulling off either trip and getting back in time for swimming lesson on Thursday and Adrienne's party on Friday. So I re-worked the plan to do Kerrville and Mason today; Del Rio/Uvalde tomorrow. And then the Del Rio store let me know that tomorrow wasn't good for them...sooo Yay- I don't have to do a long trip tomorrow either. I'll do local small stores.
Swimming Lessons ended today. I don't think we'll go back to the Y in New B. It was okay...but not great. Ray is more comfortable in the water now, so that's good, but these weekday classes seemed so un-planned, disjointed. The Saturday classes were much better. The posted pool rules aren't followed at all. And they gave him a "test" today on stuff that was never even taught. That just doesn't work for me. I liked that signing up was easy to do on-line; vs. Boerne pool had to go there..and I couldn't get there before all the slots were taken; and the private teachers I called never got back to me - that was frustrating. So, maybe next year we'll start working on swimming lessons in February and it will be better.
I'm already thinking of what to have for dinner when TJ and Jessie come home. I'm thinking steak...but then maybe that's too much, too soon. When we do 30 hour famine with the youth, and parents take their kids out for an extravagant meal afterwards, it all seems so shallow. I'm going to ask the other's who have been for thier opinion.
Late - again. Night.
Kenny - Hunter Malatek's friend/co-worker arrived promptly at 8:30. Figures out the problem and has it fixed in about 30 minutes. Awesome. Have a great conversation with Kenny about church and mission trips and serving homeless folks. Go figure - God is even in the encounter with the A/C guy :-)
I've done less driving than I orginally planned. Was supposed to do DelRio/Uvalde today and then Laredo tomorrow. But yesterday morning, I just couldn't see myself pulling off either trip and getting back in time for swimming lesson on Thursday and Adrienne's party on Friday. So I re-worked the plan to do Kerrville and Mason today; Del Rio/Uvalde tomorrow. And then the Del Rio store let me know that tomorrow wasn't good for them...sooo Yay- I don't have to do a long trip tomorrow either. I'll do local small stores.
Swimming Lessons ended today. I don't think we'll go back to the Y in New B. It was okay...but not great. Ray is more comfortable in the water now, so that's good, but these weekday classes seemed so un-planned, disjointed. The Saturday classes were much better. The posted pool rules aren't followed at all. And they gave him a "test" today on stuff that was never even taught. That just doesn't work for me. I liked that signing up was easy to do on-line; vs. Boerne pool had to go there..and I couldn't get there before all the slots were taken; and the private teachers I called never got back to me - that was frustrating. So, maybe next year we'll start working on swimming lessons in February and it will be better.
I'm already thinking of what to have for dinner when TJ and Jessie come home. I'm thinking steak...but then maybe that's too much, too soon. When we do 30 hour famine with the youth, and parents take their kids out for an extravagant meal afterwards, it all seems so shallow. I'm going to ask the other's who have been for thier opinion.
Late - again. Night.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
It's Hot
Up at 5:50 this morning. Decided I could use an extra 30 minutes.
As I'm about to go wake Ray up, I hear a noise from his room. Then more noises - I'm on my way to see what all the commotion is about when I hear him crying. He knocked a picture off the wall by his bed. Glass broke, he tried to pick it up, cut his hand. Lots of blood. Luckily just a little bitty cut. Glass all over - I'll clean that up later.
Still rather warm in the house. Didn't cool down much during the night. Thermostat says 83.
Jeff calls, says he'll come by to check on the A/C this afternoon. I get done with appointments and go to the house to wait for Jeff. Coolest place is the living room with the doors open. It's sill 90 - but there's a wiff of a breeze. Much cooler than my office.
Jeff figures out what part it probably is. We call around. No-one will sell Trane parts. Have to have a Trane A/C person come out. I remember that my buddy Hunter is in the A/C biz. I'm thinking he does commercial stuff only - but find on the website that they do residential. He calls in an order for the part for me. I go get Ray and drive into San Antonio - Loop 410/Jackson Keller. Get the part and Jeff agrees to meet me at the house at 5:30 to install it.
While Jeff works on the A/C, I vacuum up the glass, and clean up all the mud because the dogs have been tracking thru while I have the doors open for the breeze. House is a mess. Yuck...
Part doesn't solve the problem..but Hunter says he can send a guy out in the morning.
SOOOO it dawns on me that the RV A/C works :-) And I see that my smart hubby has the RV plugged in. Just have to turn it on. So I turn it on at about 6:30; finish vacuuming and gather all we'll need for a night in the RV.
So I'm sitting in bed in the chilled air of the RV. Ray is tucked into bed where Jessie usually sleeps. My laptop works just fine from out here. I'm a happy camper. (ha-ha - camper :-)
I'm going to get some work done now. Off to Kerrville tomorrow after the A/C guy leaves.
As I'm about to go wake Ray up, I hear a noise from his room. Then more noises - I'm on my way to see what all the commotion is about when I hear him crying. He knocked a picture off the wall by his bed. Glass broke, he tried to pick it up, cut his hand. Lots of blood. Luckily just a little bitty cut. Glass all over - I'll clean that up later.
Still rather warm in the house. Didn't cool down much during the night. Thermostat says 83.
Jeff calls, says he'll come by to check on the A/C this afternoon. I get done with appointments and go to the house to wait for Jeff. Coolest place is the living room with the doors open. It's sill 90 - but there's a wiff of a breeze. Much cooler than my office.
Jeff figures out what part it probably is. We call around. No-one will sell Trane parts. Have to have a Trane A/C person come out. I remember that my buddy Hunter is in the A/C biz. I'm thinking he does commercial stuff only - but find on the website that they do residential. He calls in an order for the part for me. I go get Ray and drive into San Antonio - Loop 410/Jackson Keller. Get the part and Jeff agrees to meet me at the house at 5:30 to install it.
While Jeff works on the A/C, I vacuum up the glass, and clean up all the mud because the dogs have been tracking thru while I have the doors open for the breeze. House is a mess. Yuck...
Part doesn't solve the problem..but Hunter says he can send a guy out in the morning.
SOOOO it dawns on me that the RV A/C works :-) And I see that my smart hubby has the RV plugged in. Just have to turn it on. So I turn it on at about 6:30; finish vacuuming and gather all we'll need for a night in the RV.
So I'm sitting in bed in the chilled air of the RV. Ray is tucked into bed where Jessie usually sleeps. My laptop works just fine from out here. I'm a happy camper. (ha-ha - camper :-)
I'm going to get some work done now. Off to Kerrville tomorrow after the A/C guy leaves.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Clocks, RAIN and A/C again
5:20 alarm went off. I was very good about getting right up and getting going.
After shower, and getting Ray up and started on breakfast, I sit down at the computer, and happen to glance at the time. 5:08. Huh? I look up at the clock on the wall, then at my phone time. All say 5:08. I look at the kitchen clock - 5:08. And finally my bedside clock. It is an hour ahead. Apparently, when setting the alarm, I somehow changed the time. So it's 515AM and we are pretty much ready to go...and don't have to leave until 7:30.
So I work on this and that and decide to sit down to rest at about 6:15AM - figure I can take a few minutes to do nothing. I startle awake at 7:23AM - then have to rush around to get us into the car (with the dog to go to the vet).
But I make all my appointments on time.
Get a call in the late morning that I've signed up to make 36 closing packet envelopes for Chrysalis...ummm. when am I going to do that? Have to be to them by Friday. Wish I'd remembered or been reminded a few weeks ago...
4:00 RAIN. and lots of it. Downpour. hey, maybe swimming is cancelled, and I can work on Closing Packets.
Come home to 2 dogs in the house, and the sheltie outside drenched. I let the sheltie in, since it's still raining.
5:00 call YMCA - still having lesson - it'll be a "dry lesson" inside. "Lesson" on water safety was pretty pointless. It's like they just threw something together, wish I'd known. That turned out to be a bit of a waste of 1.5 hours (drive 30 each way + class for 30 minutes).
Get home, make pizza - Ray is very happy about pizza. About 7:30 he says- Mamaw, I'm hot. I look up at the thermostat...it reads 80. Uh-Oh. I go out to re-set the breaker, once I figure out how to open the box. It's not tripped, but I re-set anyway. Jeff says to check the A/C unit ..It is running. Yeah.
Decorated 36 Closing packet envelopes. Wish I'd known ahead - then Jessie and I could have done them together. Remembered to pray over them - to the butterflies who will recieve them.
It's midnight and it's 85 in the house.. A/C is not working. Cool to Luke-warmish air is blowing out of vents, but not cold air. I've opened up the few windows with screens - that is better. I might sleep in Jessie's room - I have no screened windows in my room...it's hot in there. (Well I'm sure not as hot as Otutulu :-)
Going to sleep now. Have to repeat the 5:20 wake-up call. I've re-checked the clock.
Night.
After shower, and getting Ray up and started on breakfast, I sit down at the computer, and happen to glance at the time. 5:08. Huh? I look up at the clock on the wall, then at my phone time. All say 5:08. I look at the kitchen clock - 5:08. And finally my bedside clock. It is an hour ahead. Apparently, when setting the alarm, I somehow changed the time. So it's 515AM and we are pretty much ready to go...and don't have to leave until 7:30.
So I work on this and that and decide to sit down to rest at about 6:15AM - figure I can take a few minutes to do nothing. I startle awake at 7:23AM - then have to rush around to get us into the car (with the dog to go to the vet).
But I make all my appointments on time.
Get a call in the late morning that I've signed up to make 36 closing packet envelopes for Chrysalis...ummm. when am I going to do that? Have to be to them by Friday. Wish I'd remembered or been reminded a few weeks ago...
4:00 RAIN. and lots of it. Downpour. hey, maybe swimming is cancelled, and I can work on Closing Packets.
Come home to 2 dogs in the house, and the sheltie outside drenched. I let the sheltie in, since it's still raining.
5:00 call YMCA - still having lesson - it'll be a "dry lesson" inside. "Lesson" on water safety was pretty pointless. It's like they just threw something together, wish I'd known. That turned out to be a bit of a waste of 1.5 hours (drive 30 each way + class for 30 minutes).
Get home, make pizza - Ray is very happy about pizza. About 7:30 he says- Mamaw, I'm hot. I look up at the thermostat...it reads 80. Uh-Oh. I go out to re-set the breaker, once I figure out how to open the box. It's not tripped, but I re-set anyway. Jeff says to check the A/C unit ..It is running. Yeah.
Decorated 36 Closing packet envelopes. Wish I'd known ahead - then Jessie and I could have done them together. Remembered to pray over them - to the butterflies who will recieve them.
It's midnight and it's 85 in the house.. A/C is not working. Cool to Luke-warmish air is blowing out of vents, but not cold air. I've opened up the few windows with screens - that is better. I might sleep in Jessie's room - I have no screened windows in my room...it's hot in there. (Well I'm sure not as hot as Otutulu :-)
Going to sleep now. Have to repeat the 5:20 wake-up call. I've re-checked the clock.
Night.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Chickens, A/C and New Calf
Driving away this morning - actually a little ahead of time to take Ray, then go to a meeting at church.
Realized as a drove by the chicken coop that I hadn't fed them yet, and that they might need water. There was food; but of course, they had no water. So I had to stop the car, drag over the hose (which kept getting caught on something),wrangle the water canister open, fill it, wash out the goop in the base, replace it...all while dressed in my work attire; all while trying to keep the aggressive rooster and head mama chicken away from my painted toe nails- which they think are something to eat. Yuck. Needless to say, was no longer ahead - but I did make it to the church before the meeting started!
Picked up Ray on time...had a few moments to run into house and change into swim suit. House is hot...temperature reads as 90. Uh-Oh. Can't do anything about it now...have to get to swimming. On the way, I call Jeff Gabelmann, who says it might just be ants causing the connection to short. He says he'll stop by and look at it for me. :-)!
GOOD NEWS is that I noticed Brad Schlemmer had brought hay for the cows.
My hubby's friends are awesome parts of our biblically functioning community - THANK YOU LORD for JEFF AND BRAD
Jeff calls...the breaker was tripped?? He re-set it. Said that was weird, and let me know where the breaker was in case it happened again - but to call him; because that shouldn't happen. It's now back to normal cool temp in the house.
More good news - we have another new calf. Our white cow - Curious, has a little newborn tagging along. That's 4 this year: Mama cows are Sarah, the Black cow with the Long Horns (no name), Stumpy and now Curious.
Tomorrow is Ray to school, Sadie to vet, 3 appointments, back to get Sadie, then Ray, drop Sadie off at the house, change clothes, then to swimming - that's going to be a little touchy to get it all done..but God's managed all these other "touchy" days so far. I just have to keep up, and trust in Him. That was Ray's memory verse this week - Trust in the Lord.
Realized as a drove by the chicken coop that I hadn't fed them yet, and that they might need water. There was food; but of course, they had no water. So I had to stop the car, drag over the hose (which kept getting caught on something),wrangle the water canister open, fill it, wash out the goop in the base, replace it...all while dressed in my work attire; all while trying to keep the aggressive rooster and head mama chicken away from my painted toe nails- which they think are something to eat. Yuck. Needless to say, was no longer ahead - but I did make it to the church before the meeting started!
Picked up Ray on time...had a few moments to run into house and change into swim suit. House is hot...temperature reads as 90. Uh-Oh. Can't do anything about it now...have to get to swimming. On the way, I call Jeff Gabelmann, who says it might just be ants causing the connection to short. He says he'll stop by and look at it for me. :-)!
GOOD NEWS is that I noticed Brad Schlemmer had brought hay for the cows.
My hubby's friends are awesome parts of our biblically functioning community - THANK YOU LORD for JEFF AND BRAD
Jeff calls...the breaker was tripped?? He re-set it. Said that was weird, and let me know where the breaker was in case it happened again - but to call him; because that shouldn't happen. It's now back to normal cool temp in the house.
More good news - we have another new calf. Our white cow - Curious, has a little newborn tagging along. That's 4 this year: Mama cows are Sarah, the Black cow with the Long Horns (no name), Stumpy and now Curious.
Tomorrow is Ray to school, Sadie to vet, 3 appointments, back to get Sadie, then Ray, drop Sadie off at the house, change clothes, then to swimming - that's going to be a little touchy to get it all done..but God's managed all these other "touchy" days so far. I just have to keep up, and trust in Him. That was Ray's memory verse this week - Trust in the Lord.
Cows and Raccoons Interrupt Sleep
Took a l o n g nap yesterday after skype with TJ.
Woke up to a noise on the back deck. Sarah (cow) was at the back doors. She had just knocked over a plant and was beginning to nibble on another. Well. more like chomp...cows don't nibble. Chased her off...then about 20 minutes later, heard noise on the front deck...Sarah was all the way up on the front deck, eating the flowers next to the door. Chased her away again.
Brad will be bringing hay tomorrow morning for the very hungry cows.
Kept waking up last night to our dogs barking from the back deck. I looked out several times, thinking the cows were back for a late night snack, but didn't see anything. Figured maybe they were barking at some far away falling leaf..they do that sometimes.
This morning, JJP (sheltie) was insistantly barking on the back deck again. Then I saw the reason - a raccoon on a tree hanging over the deck. As soon as I opened the door to get the dog in (so the coon could safely run away); the coon jumped down and started running - chased by the 11 year old sheltie with bad eyesight and stubby little legs. Luckily (for the sheltie) the coon got away.
Love life at the ranch :-)
Woke up to a noise on the back deck. Sarah (cow) was at the back doors. She had just knocked over a plant and was beginning to nibble on another. Well. more like chomp...cows don't nibble. Chased her off...then about 20 minutes later, heard noise on the front deck...Sarah was all the way up on the front deck, eating the flowers next to the door. Chased her away again.
Brad will be bringing hay tomorrow morning for the very hungry cows.
Kept waking up last night to our dogs barking from the back deck. I looked out several times, thinking the cows were back for a late night snack, but didn't see anything. Figured maybe they were barking at some far away falling leaf..they do that sometimes.
This morning, JJP (sheltie) was insistantly barking on the back deck again. Then I saw the reason - a raccoon on a tree hanging over the deck. As soon as I opened the door to get the dog in (so the coon could safely run away); the coon jumped down and started running - chased by the 11 year old sheltie with bad eyesight and stubby little legs. Luckily (for the sheltie) the coon got away.
Love life at the ranch :-)
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Skype with TJ
12:15 our time...so 6:15 there, (I think).
YEAH! Skype with my hubby! Jessie was out and about somewhere. Woke Ray up from nap to "see" Papaw. Ray wasn't too into the video call...he's still VERRY Tired from his day yesterday :-)
Several of the kids came into the room. I think they liked seeing themselves on the camera.
TJ said they played volleyball today, and had church service. TJ spoke at church...would have loved to hear that.
He said Chloe is much better, she'd been feeling a little poorly.
He talked about being invited into the home after the funeral and how people served them - that was an adjustment - to be the ones being served.
They even had Sprite!
He said Crystal is a Rock Star with all that she does for everyone.
They were going to eat dinner in about 30 minutes - didn't know what they were eating, or what would be in it. But that it all tastes good.
Then they'll have their devotional and then the generators are turned off...so they'll sit on the porch and chat before heading off to sleep.
Said his favorite thing is the people, and getting to know the folks on the team more.
SO nice to see his smiling face.
YEAH! Skype with my hubby! Jessie was out and about somewhere. Woke Ray up from nap to "see" Papaw. Ray wasn't too into the video call...he's still VERRY Tired from his day yesterday :-)
Several of the kids came into the room. I think they liked seeing themselves on the camera.
TJ said they played volleyball today, and had church service. TJ spoke at church...would have loved to hear that.
He said Chloe is much better, she'd been feeling a little poorly.
He talked about being invited into the home after the funeral and how people served them - that was an adjustment - to be the ones being served.
They even had Sprite!
He said Crystal is a Rock Star with all that she does for everyone.
They were going to eat dinner in about 30 minutes - didn't know what they were eating, or what would be in it. But that it all tastes good.
Then they'll have their devotional and then the generators are turned off...so they'll sit on the porch and chat before heading off to sleep.
Said his favorite thing is the people, and getting to know the folks on the team more.
SO nice to see his smiling face.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Missed a sykpe - sad.
:-( So sad, I wasn't home yet from my meeting, and TJ/Jessie tried to skype. They are going to try again tomorrow. Going to SIT in front of computer tomorrow from 2 until they contact me.
Here is Jessie's FaceBook Post
"So much to say, yet no words. i am running on limited power in Otutulu, Nigeria. An experience I would never trade for anything. I have seen things I never would have thought I would, I have done things I know many of you will never even have the opportunity to, I am in such a different world and I love it. There's so much to see, take in, be a part of. Everything is so simple and straight forward here, so.. real."
TJ left me a skype message that he went to a funeral today - looking forward to hearing about that. Jessie was part of the group doing the albinism class. Want to hear about that too.
TJ also said they picked melons today, and there was some melon throwing going on. He closed with saying they were going to go pour cold water on themselves - and call that a shower. LOL.
My friend Adam told me that journaling the adventures of Mamaw and Ray is good - TJ and Jessie will want to read it when they get settled back later this month.
So..today I had an Emmaus team meeting. It was wonder-filled as usual. There were more than a few God moments. Like the "theme" for the Walk is an art piece of a heart and a cross and thorns. Kathy's mom made it - it is all that Kathy has of her mom - who passed away when Kathy was 20 months old. Well, one of the photos the music team used on their power point is of a door in a foreign country, with the the EXACT same design on it! God knew all along about the connection. Kathy was speechless.
Ray spent the day with the Jacobus boys - Adam, Landon, Dawson. Swimming, playing, eating pizza. They wore him out. He was sound asleep in the car seat within minutes of getting in the car.
I need to get off blogging and go get the trashcan from the gate...Haven't had a chance to get it since trash pick-up on Wednesday. Then a few loads of laundry and some work stuff on the computer.
Here is Jessie's FaceBook Post
"So much to say, yet no words. i am running on limited power in Otutulu, Nigeria. An experience I would never trade for anything. I have seen things I never would have thought I would, I have done things I know many of you will never even have the opportunity to, I am in such a different world and I love it. There's so much to see, take in, be a part of. Everything is so simple and straight forward here, so.. real."
TJ left me a skype message that he went to a funeral today - looking forward to hearing about that. Jessie was part of the group doing the albinism class. Want to hear about that too.
TJ also said they picked melons today, and there was some melon throwing going on. He closed with saying they were going to go pour cold water on themselves - and call that a shower. LOL.
My friend Adam told me that journaling the adventures of Mamaw and Ray is good - TJ and Jessie will want to read it when they get settled back later this month.
So..today I had an Emmaus team meeting. It was wonder-filled as usual. There were more than a few God moments. Like the "theme" for the Walk is an art piece of a heart and a cross and thorns. Kathy's mom made it - it is all that Kathy has of her mom - who passed away when Kathy was 20 months old. Well, one of the photos the music team used on their power point is of a door in a foreign country, with the the EXACT same design on it! God knew all along about the connection. Kathy was speechless.
Ray spent the day with the Jacobus boys - Adam, Landon, Dawson. Swimming, playing, eating pizza. They wore him out. He was sound asleep in the car seat within minutes of getting in the car.
I need to get off blogging and go get the trashcan from the gate...Haven't had a chance to get it since trash pick-up on Wednesday. Then a few loads of laundry and some work stuff on the computer.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Work Week One is Done
Four days without Jessie and TJ. Seems like a long-time. Trying to remember One Moment at a Time.
Several times today, I had stuff I wanted to share with my hubby. Like the new account in Austin being unhappy that I couldn't give her data on what her competitors' best sellers are. She actually accused me of lying when I told her for the umpteenth time that I didn't have that data. Then she couldn't understand why I didn't know average transaction amounts for stores near her, or the demographics of the community around her store, or the average volume of daily sales for other stores her size, and other info like that. She said, "I need to know all this information to know what to buy for my store". Well, yes, that'd be nice to know...but I'm the vitamin rep, not the chamber of commerce. (that's what I thought - not what I said). Just kept repeating that I didn't have that kind of information..she kept asking..we went round and round. Strange first meeting with a new store.
Annnyyywayy - I wanted to vent about that to my hubby, who always settles me...sigh.
And then Sadie isn't doing well, and I didn't have anyone to talk to about that.
And Ray's grandparents want to spend a day with him, and I didn't have TJ to discuss that with.
Hoping it'll be our turn to skype soon, so I can hear about their adventures.
Several times today, I had stuff I wanted to share with my hubby. Like the new account in Austin being unhappy that I couldn't give her data on what her competitors' best sellers are. She actually accused me of lying when I told her for the umpteenth time that I didn't have that data. Then she couldn't understand why I didn't know average transaction amounts for stores near her, or the demographics of the community around her store, or the average volume of daily sales for other stores her size, and other info like that. She said, "I need to know all this information to know what to buy for my store". Well, yes, that'd be nice to know...but I'm the vitamin rep, not the chamber of commerce. (that's what I thought - not what I said). Just kept repeating that I didn't have that kind of information..she kept asking..we went round and round. Strange first meeting with a new store.
Annnyyywayy - I wanted to vent about that to my hubby, who always settles me...sigh.
And then Sadie isn't doing well, and I didn't have anyone to talk to about that.
And Ray's grandparents want to spend a day with him, and I didn't have TJ to discuss that with.
Hoping it'll be our turn to skype soon, so I can hear about their adventures.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Updated Understanding of the Itinerary to Date
I was confused - so I thought ya'll might be too.
I knew that there is a 6 hour time difference. And as I've thought about the team through out the day, I pictured them based on that time. But I didn't know that they didn't go straight from the airport in Abuja to the MoM orphange in Otutulu.
This is information I adapted from an email to me from Renee Leachman (her hubby, Leonard, is part of this team, and their two daughters, Oma and Anita, are adopted from the orphanage in Otutulu.)
Tuesday, 12th
Depart San Antonio at 1:30PM Central Time
Wednesday, 13th
Arrived in Germany at 9:00AM-ish Germany Time (3:00AM- ish Central Time)
Arrived in Abuja, Nigeria 5:00PM-ish Nigeria Time (11:00PM-ish Central Time)
Stayed overnight at the Hope Eden (or Eden Hope) Community School, on the
outskirts of Abuja
Thursday, 14th
Drove from Abuja to Lokoja. Spent day at the MoM facility in Lokoja. This is where many of the babies are. I don't know the age limit before they "move on" to Otutulu. A personal note: TJ LOVES babies - and they love him. So I look forward to hearing how that went. Jessie too. But there is just something about TJ and infants :-) Shhhh don't tell him I told you!
Drove from Lokoja to Otutulu. From the messages we got, it looks like they
arrived there 8:30 - 9:30PM-ish Nigeria time tonight - Thursday
They are sleeping now for the first time at the MoM orphanage in Otutulu.
Tomorrow -Friday, July 15th, will be their first day of waking up in the MoM compound.
That is much different than what I had in my head. Thanks Renee for the clarification!
I knew that there is a 6 hour time difference. And as I've thought about the team through out the day, I pictured them based on that time. But I didn't know that they didn't go straight from the airport in Abuja to the MoM orphange in Otutulu.
This is information I adapted from an email to me from Renee Leachman (her hubby, Leonard, is part of this team, and their two daughters, Oma and Anita, are adopted from the orphanage in Otutulu.)
Tuesday, 12th
Depart San Antonio at 1:30PM Central Time
Wednesday, 13th
Arrived in Germany at 9:00AM-ish Germany Time (3:00AM- ish Central Time)
Arrived in Abuja, Nigeria 5:00PM-ish Nigeria Time (11:00PM-ish Central Time)
Stayed overnight at the Hope Eden (or Eden Hope) Community School, on the
outskirts of Abuja
Thursday, 14th
Drove from Abuja to Lokoja. Spent day at the MoM facility in Lokoja. This is where many of the babies are. I don't know the age limit before they "move on" to Otutulu. A personal note: TJ LOVES babies - and they love him. So I look forward to hearing how that went. Jessie too. But there is just something about TJ and infants :-) Shhhh don't tell him I told you!
Drove from Lokoja to Otutulu. From the messages we got, it looks like they
arrived there 8:30 - 9:30PM-ish Nigeria time tonight - Thursday
They are sleeping now for the first time at the MoM orphanage in Otutulu.
Tomorrow -Friday, July 15th, will be their first day of waking up in the MoM compound.
That is much different than what I had in my head. Thanks Renee for the clarification!
Thursday - the Driving Day
This long drive day worked out just fine. Up at 5:15AM. We left at 6:30AM. I arrived in Brenham just as the store opened. Then on to Bryan and Caldwell stores. Back in time to get Ray to swimming - we even had some time to practice before his class.
Ate dinner at home. Tired of fast food/restaurants already. Then worked with Ray on his numbers. He seems to be struggling with the 'teens'. 11, 12, 13, etc. So we are going to work on those more when there is spare time.
Got my new GPS holder...so I no longer have to "balance" it on the stand, and catch it every time I go around a corner or over a little bump.
Another day of no mice. A few ants though.
Tomorrow is Austin and back. Have to be there early...so leaving again at 6:30ish.
Ate dinner at home. Tired of fast food/restaurants already. Then worked with Ray on his numbers. He seems to be struggling with the 'teens'. 11, 12, 13, etc. So we are going to work on those more when there is spare time.
Got my new GPS holder...so I no longer have to "balance" it on the stand, and catch it every time I go around a corner or over a little bump.
Another day of no mice. A few ants though.
Tomorrow is Austin and back. Have to be there early...so leaving again at 6:30ish.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Day 2 of the Adventures of Ray and Mamaw
http://www.lamplightmissions.blogspot.com
Go to the above blog for updates on the team in Nigeria.
They are 6 hours ahead of Central time, so it's 9:45PM here and 3:45AM there - so they are currently sleeping under their mosquito netting.
Today would have a seemed overly full if I looked at it in advance...but I'm trying not to do that - other than to plan what time to get up and get going..
Eggs for breakfast. No ants or mice in the kitchen this morning.
Dropped off Ray. Drove north of Austin to 620 area. Then to Georgetown, 2 stores in Round Rock and 2 stores off 183. Then to the little hispanic store off I-35. Had enough time remaining to drive back down into San Antonio to help out a store - and arrived to pick up Ray in plenty of time for swimming.
Ray's weekend swim teacher helped out today - that's good, because the current teacher needs help knowing how to fit it all in with 6 little wiggle worms. Tonight's class was much better...but Ray regressed a bit and wouldn't jump into the water..AT ALL. Did not want to get his face in the water. AT ALL. So he and I stayed after again and he's more comfortable now - promises to jump in and get his face wet tomorrow.
Then he wanted pizza. I said, Yes - but only if you eat salad first! He ate broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers and spinach from the salad buffet BEFORE he ate his 3 pieces of of pepperoni pizza. Then we played games, and he won Prizes.
Home late. Didn't feed chickens tonight or get eggs - they can wait a day.
Tomorrow is the tough one.. -Three hour drive to Brenham, then up to Caldwell, then on into Bryan. Then 3 hour drive back - be at daycare by 5 to pick-up Ray. I let the swim teacher know that we may be a little late. Better than being stressed about rushing.
I'm done for tonite. Tired. Need to sleep well tonite for all that driving tomorrow.
Go to the above blog for updates on the team in Nigeria.
They are 6 hours ahead of Central time, so it's 9:45PM here and 3:45AM there - so they are currently sleeping under their mosquito netting.
Temperatures there aren't too bad..It's the rainy season there right now, so it's cooler. Their hottest time is the spring. How odd - I'd have thought it'd be over 100++ given that they are closer to the equator.
Hardest thing for me to get used to is that TJ and I text several times per day, just something funny that happened, or what is going on in the day, where we are, what time we'll be home, who is getting Ray, etc. I keep wanting to send him a message about this or that...and cannot. Not communicating at all for two weeks is going to be a challenge.
Today would have a seemed overly full if I looked at it in advance...but I'm trying not to do that - other than to plan what time to get up and get going..
Eggs for breakfast. No ants or mice in the kitchen this morning.
Dropped off Ray. Drove north of Austin to 620 area. Then to Georgetown, 2 stores in Round Rock and 2 stores off 183. Then to the little hispanic store off I-35. Had enough time remaining to drive back down into San Antonio to help out a store - and arrived to pick up Ray in plenty of time for swimming.
Ray's weekend swim teacher helped out today - that's good, because the current teacher needs help knowing how to fit it all in with 6 little wiggle worms. Tonight's class was much better...but Ray regressed a bit and wouldn't jump into the water..AT ALL. Did not want to get his face in the water. AT ALL. So he and I stayed after again and he's more comfortable now - promises to jump in and get his face wet tomorrow.
Then he wanted pizza. I said, Yes - but only if you eat salad first! He ate broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers and spinach from the salad buffet BEFORE he ate his 3 pieces of of pepperoni pizza. Then we played games, and he won Prizes.
Home late. Didn't feed chickens tonight or get eggs - they can wait a day.
Tomorrow is the tough one.. -Three hour drive to Brenham, then up to Caldwell, then on into Bryan. Then 3 hour drive back - be at daycare by 5 to pick-up Ray. I let the swim teacher know that we may be a little late. Better than being stressed about rushing.
I'm done for tonite. Tired. Need to sleep well tonite for all that driving tomorrow.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
My husband and my 16 year old daughter left for a 2 week mission trip to Nigeria this afternoon. I was planning to simply drop them at the curb and go off to work. I decided to park, and stay until they left for the gate. So glad I did. It took over an hour while they all gathered and got checked in. I rarely just sit, so this allowed me to take time to just rest in His presence, breath, and contemplate what was in store for them. It was meaningful that Pastors Paul and Michael were also there to send them off. Thanks PW and MV. All the family members gathered 'round and prayed over them...(thought of Mark Schultz' Cloud of Witnesses). I cried - not unusual for me. I'm not sure why - just the emotion of it all I think.
I am on my own for these 2 weeks with Ray, our 4 year old. (I re-read this and think - I am NOT on my own, I have Him, and a biblically functioning community surrounding me!)
I am on my own for these 2 weeks with Ray, our 4 year old. (I re-read this and think - I am NOT on my own, I have Him, and a biblically functioning community surrounding me!)
It shall be interesting. I'm going to journal via this blog, so TJ and Jessie can read of our adventures when they return from their much BIGGER adventure.
Finished work on the south side of San Antonio at 4:07PM. Had to be at "school" to pick up Ray by 5 - to make it to swimming lesson. I was worried that I wouldn't make it with traffic on I-10. But I arrived early enough (4:50) to stop by the house and get my swimsuit too. Thanks be to God for light traffic.
Because I had my own suit, I was able to get in the water with Ray after his lesson and "practice". That was fun - and refreshing...it was 100 degrees at the pool.
Ate at Taco Bell. I'm dieting a bit, so that I'll look wonderful for my hubby when he comes home- I like Taco Bell's low priced "fresco - drive-thru diet" when I'm doing fast food. Ray ended up eating his taco, and most of my 2nd one ..so I got to "diet" even more than I'd planned :-)
Taco Bell is in the same parking lot as a Walmart super store - so we walked over and bought plums for dessert. Juicy and drippy as we walked back to the car.
And the adventure of the evening: When we arrive home, a mouse in the sink!
History - we have a SEVERE mouse problem. In the past few months, using mouse traps strategically located, TJ has eliminated over 80 mice. Yes, that's right, eighty. I asked him to not put out the traps, because dead mice are not something I can handle.
So I enter the kitchen, and out of the corner of my eye, I see a mouse JUMP in the sink. I shreak and run out of the kitchen. Explain to Ray that I saw a mouse in the sink, and that it scared me. I catch my breath, and go about other things - to give the mouse time to go hide somewhere. I'm thinking maybe I should have allowed the mouse traps, and had someone come clear/re-set them every few days. Back in the kitchen, I glance hesitantly toward the sink. I see a tail. And them it jumps... I shreak again. Apparently it got into the deep half of the slick porcelain sink, and cannot get out. Now what am I going to do?
I called my brother-in-law, Kris. He will be here in about an hour. I avoid looking in the sink, although I can occasionally hear the mouse jump.
Finished work on the south side of San Antonio at 4:07PM. Had to be at "school" to pick up Ray by 5 - to make it to swimming lesson. I was worried that I wouldn't make it with traffic on I-10. But I arrived early enough (4:50) to stop by the house and get my swimsuit too. Thanks be to God for light traffic.
Because I had my own suit, I was able to get in the water with Ray after his lesson and "practice". That was fun - and refreshing...it was 100 degrees at the pool.
Ate at Taco Bell. I'm dieting a bit, so that I'll look wonderful for my hubby when he comes home- I like Taco Bell's low priced "fresco - drive-thru diet" when I'm doing fast food. Ray ended up eating his taco, and most of my 2nd one ..so I got to "diet" even more than I'd planned :-)
Taco Bell is in the same parking lot as a Walmart super store - so we walked over and bought plums for dessert. Juicy and drippy as we walked back to the car.
And the adventure of the evening: When we arrive home, a mouse in the sink!
History - we have a SEVERE mouse problem. In the past few months, using mouse traps strategically located, TJ has eliminated over 80 mice. Yes, that's right, eighty. I asked him to not put out the traps, because dead mice are not something I can handle.
So I enter the kitchen, and out of the corner of my eye, I see a mouse JUMP in the sink. I shreak and run out of the kitchen. Explain to Ray that I saw a mouse in the sink, and that it scared me. I catch my breath, and go about other things - to give the mouse time to go hide somewhere. I'm thinking maybe I should have allowed the mouse traps, and had someone come clear/re-set them every few days. Back in the kitchen, I glance hesitantly toward the sink. I see a tail. And them it jumps... I shreak again. Apparently it got into the deep half of the slick porcelain sink, and cannot get out. Now what am I going to do?
I called my brother-in-law, Kris. He will be here in about an hour. I avoid looking in the sink, although I can occasionally hear the mouse jump.
Kris just arrived. He looks in the sink. No mouse. Kris thinks it went down the drain - which in our antiquated house just goes out into the field. We run hot water. We make a plan for mouse traps. Kris agrees to come clear/re-set every few days while I'm out of the house.
My prayer request is for patience, and to truly, completely, live to feel the joy in each Moment at a Time. If I get to thinking of all that has to get done in a day - or for the week, I get rather overwhelmingly stressed. My prayers have been answered so far today.
So One Moment at a Time, and I know God has it all taken care of...and I thank him now for what He will do tomorrow - and in the next few days with the mouse :-)
My prayer request is for patience, and to truly, completely, live to feel the joy in each Moment at a Time. If I get to thinking of all that has to get done in a day - or for the week, I get rather overwhelmingly stressed. My prayers have been answered so far today.
So One Moment at a Time, and I know God has it all taken care of...and I thank him now for what He will do tomorrow - and in the next few days with the mouse :-)
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Jojoba Oil
I recently added a new component to my skin care regimen. I’m almost 50, and I still have blemish-prone skin. I’ve tried pretty much everything on the market, and I’m able to manage the issue, but I still get blemishes every day; sometimes more than a few at a time, and sometimes they aren’t small, and I sometimes have blemishes on my upper chest, back, and neck.
About Until 5 weeks ago….when I started using jojoba oil at night. I've only had a few new blemishes since I started using jojoba oil. And the ones I had when I started cleared in a few days.
The company I work for launched an organic jojoba oil. We’re supposed to try new products, so I researched jojoba oil and found out that it is great for acne and blemish prone skin. I was a skeptic – an oil, on oily skin…hmmm. .
I discovered that jojoba oil is actually a wax ester, not an oil. This means that jojoba oil is very similar to your skin’s own sebum. Creating too much sebum which then blocks pores is one of the issues with blemish prone skin. Using a tiny bit of jojoba oil added to your regular night time cleanser helps clear out the excess sebum. You have to use warm water and you have to use a washcloth to GENTLY wipe the skin.
Think of hand washing dishes. Have you ever tried to wash oily substances with cold water and just your fingers? Doesn’t work. You need a cleansing agent to “grab” the oil, warm water, and a sponge or washcloth.
Then, use a tiny bit of jojoba oil added to your night time moisturizer. This gives the skin the “wax –ester” that it needs, and your skin won’t overproduce sebum.
From my research, I learned not to use the jojoba in the morning..your skin will feel oily all day…and those of us with blemish prone skin don’t like that feeling.
So here is my regimen: I use a cleansing cream, to which I add 2-3 drops (no more) of jojoba. I thoroughly massage/rub/”clean” my skin with the cream. Every nook and cranny and inch of my face, neck, upper chest, ]and upper back. I then wet a wash cloth with warm water and GENTLY wipe away the cleanser. I do not scrub with the washcloth – this exacerbates skin. Just use the washcloth as the last step to thoroughly wipe off the cleanser.
Next I put 2-3 drops of jojoba oil in a little bit of my night time moisturizer (to which I still add a few drops of tea tree oil like I’ve been doing for 25 years). Apply that to my face, neck, upper chest and upper back/shoulders.
My skin feels amazing!
NOTE: The jojoba I’m using is organic, and it has a little vitamin E added to it to preserve it. I don’t want a chemical based product on my skin. I don’t know if other brands are organic/have the vitamin E to preserve. The one I’m using is Life-Flo’s Organic Jojoba Oil, Item # 82557. You can ask your local independent vitamin retailer to order it for you if they don’t have it. Most national chains like Whole Foods don’t carry it yet. But you can ask if they will order it for you – if not, find an independent store.
About Until 5 weeks ago….when I started using jojoba oil at night. I've only had a few new blemishes since I started using jojoba oil. And the ones I had when I started cleared in a few days.
The company I work for launched an organic jojoba oil. We’re supposed to try new products, so I researched jojoba oil and found out that it is great for acne and blemish prone skin. I was a skeptic – an oil, on oily skin…hmmm. .
I discovered that jojoba oil is actually a wax ester, not an oil. This means that jojoba oil is very similar to your skin’s own sebum. Creating too much sebum which then blocks pores is one of the issues with blemish prone skin. Using a tiny bit of jojoba oil added to your regular night time cleanser helps clear out the excess sebum. You have to use warm water and you have to use a washcloth to GENTLY wipe the skin.
Think of hand washing dishes. Have you ever tried to wash oily substances with cold water and just your fingers? Doesn’t work. You need a cleansing agent to “grab” the oil, warm water, and a sponge or washcloth.
Then, use a tiny bit of jojoba oil added to your night time moisturizer. This gives the skin the “wax –ester” that it needs, and your skin won’t overproduce sebum.
From my research, I learned not to use the jojoba in the morning..your skin will feel oily all day…and those of us with blemish prone skin don’t like that feeling.
So here is my regimen: I use a cleansing cream, to which I add 2-3 drops (no more) of jojoba. I thoroughly massage/rub/”clean” my skin with the cream. Every nook and cranny and inch of my face, neck, upper chest, ]and upper back. I then wet a wash cloth with warm water and GENTLY wipe away the cleanser. I do not scrub with the washcloth – this exacerbates skin. Just use the washcloth as the last step to thoroughly wipe off the cleanser.
Next I put 2-3 drops of jojoba oil in a little bit of my night time moisturizer (to which I still add a few drops of tea tree oil like I’ve been doing for 25 years). Apply that to my face, neck, upper chest and upper back/shoulders.
My skin feels amazing!
NOTE: The jojoba I’m using is organic, and it has a little vitamin E added to it to preserve it. I don’t want a chemical based product on my skin. I don’t know if other brands are organic/have the vitamin E to preserve. The one I’m using is Life-Flo’s Organic Jojoba Oil, Item # 82557. You can ask your local independent vitamin retailer to order it for you if they don’t have it. Most national chains like Whole Foods don’t carry it yet. But you can ask if they will order it for you – if not, find an independent store.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
FD&C Colors
I almost bought a package of spinach wraps today at the store. But I noticed tiny lettering on the front which said artificial colors and flavors. I had just been talking to the young ladies in my small group about FD&C colors and how bad they are. I turned it over and was appalled to see that the product contained several FD&C colors which I try to avoid. A “healthy” looking product – with potential carcinogens…hmmmm
So I came home and re-read the coloring agent chapter in my textbook, “Staying Healthy with Nutrition” by Elton Haas, MD.
Here’s a synopsis:
Artificial colors are synthesized from petroleum or coal-tar production. Colors derived from petroleum or coal-tar are labeled as “FD&C” colors. In the late 1930’s, various dyes were “certified” for use in foods. In 1950, FD&C Orange #1 and #2; and Red #32 were withdrawn from the market due to illnesses in children. In the 70’s, many more were removed from the market for reasons such as allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and carcinogenicity. These dyes were allowed in foods for 30 years before they were removed.
However, despite efforts to have them banned, questionable FD&C colors are still used by the food industry. Here are a few examples:
Red#3: This coal-tar derivative possibly causes gene mutations, cancers, and changes in brain chemistry.
Red #40: Took the place of banned Red #2 (which was removed after being shown to cause cancer). #40 seems to show some of the same cancer causing potential; but is still allowed.
Blue #1: A coal-tar derivative used most often in candy, ice cream, cereal and pudding. Shown to cause tumors in animals, and is a possible allergen in many people.
Blue#2: Same uses as Blue #1. World Health Organization lists it as “Questionable for use in food”. Our FDA allows it – and people think the FDA is “stricter” than other countries.
Green #3: Used in candy, frozen desserts and cereals. Same tumor causing data as Blue#1.
Yellow# 5: Causes an immediate, severe allergic reaction in people sensitive to it. Therefore, it is the only dye that has to be specifically listed as FD&C Yellow #5. Especially dangerous for sensitive asthmatics, yet is used in cereal, pasta, pudding, soft drinks, sherbet, ice cream, and candy.
Here is the truly scary part: The FDA does not require that the label be specific as to which dye is in the product. The term, “artificial color” is sufficient. So you don’t know if you are getting Red #3, or Blue #2. The only one that has to be specified is Yellow #5.
Numerous studies have shown a correlation between food coloring agents and hyperactivity, learning disabilities and attention deficiencies in children. Think about all the cereal, snacks and just regular food items these kids are eating - and their parents have no idea they could be causing their child’s problems at school. Sad! Artificial colors have been implemented in liver damage issues, and of course there is the concern of carcinogenicity.
We allow candy, and a few sodas here and there…so we aren’t completely dye free in our home..but I think I need to be even more diligent. I would never have thought those spinach wraps would have petroleum/coal/tar dye in them…but they do! [Sigh] so frustrating…wish the corporations would just do the right thing and take out the bad stuff that serves no nutritional purpose! Wish more people would stop buying items with these dangerous chemicals – then maybe we’d get more choices without these chemicals. It does work…the grass roots approach – we now see many more whole grain pastas, and labels that say , “NO MSG”, and NO HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP”. More on those toxins later :-)
So I came home and re-read the coloring agent chapter in my textbook, “Staying Healthy with Nutrition” by Elton Haas, MD.
Here’s a synopsis:
Artificial colors are synthesized from petroleum or coal-tar production. Colors derived from petroleum or coal-tar are labeled as “FD&C” colors. In the late 1930’s, various dyes were “certified” for use in foods. In 1950, FD&C Orange #1 and #2; and Red #32 were withdrawn from the market due to illnesses in children. In the 70’s, many more were removed from the market for reasons such as allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and carcinogenicity. These dyes were allowed in foods for 30 years before they were removed.
However, despite efforts to have them banned, questionable FD&C colors are still used by the food industry. Here are a few examples:
Red#3: This coal-tar derivative possibly causes gene mutations, cancers, and changes in brain chemistry.
Red #40: Took the place of banned Red #2 (which was removed after being shown to cause cancer). #40 seems to show some of the same cancer causing potential; but is still allowed.
Blue #1: A coal-tar derivative used most often in candy, ice cream, cereal and pudding. Shown to cause tumors in animals, and is a possible allergen in many people.
Blue#2: Same uses as Blue #1. World Health Organization lists it as “Questionable for use in food”. Our FDA allows it – and people think the FDA is “stricter” than other countries.
Green #3: Used in candy, frozen desserts and cereals. Same tumor causing data as Blue#1.
Yellow# 5: Causes an immediate, severe allergic reaction in people sensitive to it. Therefore, it is the only dye that has to be specifically listed as FD&C Yellow #5. Especially dangerous for sensitive asthmatics, yet is used in cereal, pasta, pudding, soft drinks, sherbet, ice cream, and candy.
Here is the truly scary part: The FDA does not require that the label be specific as to which dye is in the product. The term, “artificial color” is sufficient. So you don’t know if you are getting Red #3, or Blue #2. The only one that has to be specified is Yellow #5.
Numerous studies have shown a correlation between food coloring agents and hyperactivity, learning disabilities and attention deficiencies in children. Think about all the cereal, snacks and just regular food items these kids are eating - and their parents have no idea they could be causing their child’s problems at school. Sad! Artificial colors have been implemented in liver damage issues, and of course there is the concern of carcinogenicity.
We allow candy, and a few sodas here and there…so we aren’t completely dye free in our home..but I think I need to be even more diligent. I would never have thought those spinach wraps would have petroleum/coal/tar dye in them…but they do! [Sigh] so frustrating…wish the corporations would just do the right thing and take out the bad stuff that serves no nutritional purpose! Wish more people would stop buying items with these dangerous chemicals – then maybe we’d get more choices without these chemicals. It does work…the grass roots approach – we now see many more whole grain pastas, and labels that say , “NO MSG”, and NO HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP”. More on those toxins later :-)
Saturday, February 12, 2011
CENTRAL TEXAS ALLERGIES
Homepathic Remedies contain dilutions of allergens. For example, red onion (allium cepa) will cause your eyes to water. A Homeopathic “dilution” of allium cepa keeps your eyes from watering – no matter what allergen is making your eyes water.
BioAllers products contain remedies to help with general symptoms, (Ex: allium cepa above), AND each product contains specific remedies for specific allergens such as ragweed, mold, cedar, oak, etc.
The liquids and tablets are absorbed under the tongue. You cannot have anything in your mouth 15 minutes before or after using the remedy. No water, no toothpaste, no gum, no candy, coffee, or food. NOTHING in your mouth 15 minutes before or after. Also, avoid mint containing candies, gums, foods and supplements for the months when you are using the liquid and tablet remedies as well.
It is best to START taking the remedy several weeks prior to the allergen’s presence. However, you will still experience relief from your symptoms if you start once the allergen is here…but why go thru even a day of misery? START early!
Use the remedy twice per day if you start prior to the allergen’s presence. If you start once you are already experiencing symptoms use every few hours until the symptoms are gone, then continue to use twice per day until that allergen is no longer present.
Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray contains remedies for all of our Central Texas Allergens, except Mold. If you are allergic to more than one of the below, this product is probably the most efficient for you. AND you don’t have to worry about the issue of “clean palate” and no mint.
Cedar: December through late February. START your cedar remedy in November. Our local cedar is actually juniper. If our local cedar/juniper causes an allergic response in you, then you would have that same exact response from any other juniper. BioAllers Tree Pollen and Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray both contain homeopathic juniper – which will de-sensitize your body to the local “cedar” (juniper) pollen.
Oak: (and most of our other trees) February through June. Just keep taking the same Tree Pollen or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray. If you are not allergic to cedar, then START the remedy for our other trees in January.
Grasses: March thru November. Grass Pollen or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray, or Outdoor Allergy Tablets. START the remedy in February. (or if you are using the Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray – just keep taking it)
Ragweed: July through November. Pollen Hayfever, or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray, or Outdoor Allergy Tablets. START the remedy in June. (or if you are using the Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray or Outdoor Tablets – just keep taking it)
Mold: Year Round. Mold/Yeast/Dust, or IndoorAllergy Nasal Spray,or Indoor Allergy Tablets. Use year round.
BioAllers also has products for allergies to Animal/Pet Dander, and Dairy.
Homepathic Remedies contain dilutions of allergens. For example, red onion (allium cepa) will cause your eyes to water. A Homeopathic “dilution” of allium cepa keeps your eyes from watering – no matter what allergen is making your eyes water.
BioAllers products contain remedies to help with general symptoms, (Ex: allium cepa above), AND each product contains specific remedies for specific allergens such as ragweed, mold, cedar, oak, etc.
The liquids and tablets are absorbed under the tongue. You cannot have anything in your mouth 15 minutes before or after using the remedy. No water, no toothpaste, no gum, no candy, coffee, or food. NOTHING in your mouth 15 minutes before or after. Also, avoid mint containing candies, gums, foods and supplements for the months when you are using the liquid and tablet remedies as well.
It is best to START taking the remedy several weeks prior to the allergen’s presence. However, you will still experience relief from your symptoms if you start once the allergen is here…but why go thru even a day of misery? START early!
Use the remedy twice per day if you start prior to the allergen’s presence. If you start once you are already experiencing symptoms use every few hours until the symptoms are gone, then continue to use twice per day until that allergen is no longer present.
Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray contains remedies for all of our Central Texas Allergens, except Mold. If you are allergic to more than one of the below, this product is probably the most efficient for you. AND you don’t have to worry about the issue of “clean palate” and no mint.
Cedar: December through late February. START your cedar remedy in November. Our local cedar is actually juniper. If our local cedar/juniper causes an allergic response in you, then you would have that same exact response from any other juniper. BioAllers Tree Pollen and Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray both contain homeopathic juniper – which will de-sensitize your body to the local “cedar” (juniper) pollen.
Oak: (and most of our other trees) February through June. Just keep taking the same Tree Pollen or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray. If you are not allergic to cedar, then START the remedy for our other trees in January.
Grasses: March thru November. Grass Pollen or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray, or Outdoor Allergy Tablets. START the remedy in February. (or if you are using the Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray – just keep taking it)
Ragweed: July through November. Pollen Hayfever, or Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray, or Outdoor Allergy Tablets. START the remedy in June. (or if you are using the Outdoor Allergy Nasal Spray or Outdoor Tablets – just keep taking it)
Mold: Year Round. Mold/Yeast/Dust, or IndoorAllergy Nasal Spray,or Indoor Allergy Tablets. Use year round.
BioAllers also has products for allergies to Animal/Pet Dander, and Dairy.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)