SOX ON THE BEACH

Where Germs Lurk on Planes

2011-12-22T05:05:00.002-05:00

Air travelers suffer high rates of disease & infection. And, the holidays are an infectious time of the year, with planes packed full of all those germs! Air that is recirculated throughout the cabin is most often blamed. While HEPA filters on most jets can capture 99.97% of bacterial & virus carrying particles, once they are shut down (when grounded) infections can spread like wildfire.

A number of factors increase the odds of getting a cough & runny nose. For one, the environment at 30,000 feet enable easier spread of a disease because airplanes are extremely dry and viruses thrive in low-humidity conditions.

Also, viruses & bacteria can live for hours on some surfaces. Tray tables can be contaminated. Seat back pockets get stuffed with used tissues, soiled napkins & soiled trash. It's also difficult to know what germs lurk on the airplane's pillows & blankets.

Precautions to take:

Hydrate - Drinking water keeps your nasal passages moist reducing your risk of infection.

Clean your hands - Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer often.

Disinfect - Use wipes to clean off the tray tables.

Avoid - Don't use the seat-back pockets or the airplane's pillows & blankets.

Air vents - Open your vent to help keep contagions away.

Change seats - If you sit near a cougher or someone who is sick or feverish, request a change (if possible).

Jake is TWO!

2011-11-08T07:33:00.013-05:00

I can't believe how fast time goes by ...

Should Pediatricians 'Fire' Patients Whose Parents Don't Vaccinate?

2011-09-15T05:46:00.004-04:00

THIS IS LONG, BUT WORTH THE READ TO BE AN INFORMED PARENT!

Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends doctors continue to treat families who decline to get every government-recommended vaccine, some pediatricians have decided to "fire" patients who refuse vaccines -- essentially, telling them that they should seek treatment elsewhere.

"Vaccine-educated" and "vaccine-cautious" parents tend to ask lots of questions before deciding whether or not to vaccinate their kids, and pediatricians might do better to take the time to answer thoughtfully rather than "firing" them.

According to Time Magazine: "In July, the Chicago Tribune chronicled the phenomenon of doctors severing ties with unvaccinated children, describing a letter that one eight-physician practice sent to its more than 5,000 patients, announcing they would no longer see children whose parents didn't follow the CDC-advised childhood immunization schedule. Fewer than a dozen families elected to leave the practice."

In other vaccine news, U.S. regulators at Merck's biggest vaccine-making plant identified charred bits of plastic shrink wrap have been found in vials of the vaccines. Merck said it isn't aware of any adverse health events associated with the problem.

Affected vaccines included Gardasil (for prevention of HPV infection), Varivax (for chicken pox), Pneumovax (for pneumococcal disease), Zostavax (for shingles), and MMR II (for measles, mumps, and rubella.)

According to Fox Business: "In 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a formal warning letter about deficiencies at Merck's West Point, [Pennsylvania] plant. Since then, FDA inspection reports have cited more problems: the presence of metal particles in certain products, cracks in vaccine vials and delays in Merck's reporting to the FDA of adverse events from products made at the plant."

It goes without saying that when you choose a physician, that physician is working for you. It is an oxymoron that a pediatrician is able to "fire" a patient; more accurately, you have a choice as to whom you trust to provide health care for you and your children.

So you can always FIRE your doctor. It is YOUR right and YOUR choice to take control of your health and your family's health and you should NEVER allow any doctor to interfere with that right. That said, there are reports of pediatricians ostracizing patients that disagree with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) one-size-fits-all vaccination schedule. Some pediatricians will even resist answering your vaccination questions or concerns.

I find it interesting, though, that one of the most salient points raised in the Time magazine article came not from the author but from her 4-year-old daughter, who asked after receiving five vaccines:

"Why do I need shots to make me healthy?"

And therein lies a very powerful question …

Vaccines do Not "Make" You Healthy
There is a misconception, one that is perpetuated by many pediatricians in the United States,that you need vaccines to stay well. No disease is caused by a "vaccine deficiency." In fact, in my recent article featuring the top secrets of people who never get sick, vaccination is nowhere to be found.

Why? Because, ultimately, it is the state of your immune system that determines whether or not you get sick when you're exposed to an infectious disease. The keys to boosting your immune system into a "lean, mean, disease-fighting machine" lie in your lifestyle habits -- healthy food, stress relief, exercise, sleep, exposure to sunlight and so on. Artificially manipulating your immune system with a vaccine is not the same thing, nor does it produce the same desired disease-fighting result.

What is the Difference Between Natural and Vaccine-Induced Immunity?
Many still believe vaccines provide the same kind of immunity as is provided when you naturally heal from an infection, and this widespread misconception needs to be corrected.
The presumed result of a vaccination is to help you build immunity to potentially harmful organisms that cause disease. Now, your body's immune system is already designed to do this in response to infectious organisms that you are exposed to naturally. One major difference between vaccine-induced immunity and natural immunity stems from how you're exposed to these organisms.

Most disease-causing organisms enter your body through the mucous membranes of your nose, mouth, lungs or your digestive tract.

These mucous membranes have their own immune system, called the secretory IgA immune system. It is a different system from the one activated when a vaccine is injected into your body. Your IgA immune system is your body's first line of defense and its job is to deal with infectious microorganisms at their exposure points, reducing or even eliminating the need for activation of your body's entire immune system.

However, when a lab-altered infectious microorganism is injected into your body in a vaccine, and especially when combined with an immune adjuvant, such as aluminum, your IgA immune system is bypassed, stimulating your immune system to mount a very strong inflammatory response. Vaccines can also trigger such a strong inflammatory response that the inflammation becomes chronic and leads to chronic illness or disability. (People with a personal or family history of severe allergy or autoimmunity should be cautious about vaccination because they already have a genetic predisposition to inflammatory responses that do not resolve and can lead to chronic health problems.)

Injecting these lab-altered microorganisms into your body to provoke an atypical, temporary immunity is clearly not the same way your body develops a naturally acquired type of immunity. Your immune system simply was not designed to be injected with lab altered disease-causing organisms in this manner. This is one reason why vaccines almost always only provide temporary, not permanent, immunity. Additionally, this plays a large role in why vaccines have the potential to do serious damage to your health.

Since vaccines bypass your natural first-line defense (your lgA immune system), they are never 100 percent protective because they provide only temporary, typically inferior immunity compared to that your body would acquire by experiencing and healing from the natural disease.
Why More Parents are Asking Questions about Vaccines
It cannot be disputed that vaccines carry health risks and do not guarantee protection against contracting infectious disease. Here are but a few examples that I've covered in previous articles:

Vaccinating all children against chickenpox can increase the risk of adult shingles. Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is a painful blistering rash that is potentially dangerous in the elderly. According to researchers at Britain's Public Health Laboratory Service (PHLS), while vaccination might save thousands of lives over time, thousands of elderly people may also suffer the painful effects of shingles and even die prematurely from the complications of shingles.Interestingly enough, instead of reconsidering the strategy of vaccinating all children to prevent their exposure to a common childhood infection that is harmless for 99.9 percent of children and protects adults from getting shingles, the pharmaceutical industry simply responded by creating a shingles vaccine for seniors. The shingles vaccine, according to some studies, has been shown to prevent shingles about half the time.

Of the children who contracted chickenpox in an outbreak in Maryland in 2001, 75 percent of the affected had been vaccinated against the disease.

Similarly, last year the US experienced the largest outbreak of mumps since 2006. More than 1,000 people in New Jersey and New York fell ill, yet 77 percent of those sickened were vaccinated against mumps.

In 2007, it became clear that the mass use by children of the vaccine, Prevnar, to prevent pneumoccocal disease that can cause meningitis and deadly bloodstream infections in young children, has unleashed a superbug that is resistant to all currently available drugs.

In the U.S., Prevnar vaccine was licensed in 2000 and has been given to infants in four shots between the age of 2 months and 15 months. The vaccine originally covered seven and now covers 13 of the 90-odd strains of the strep bacteria. Although pneumoccocal disease,caused by seven pneumoccoal strains in the 7- valent Prevnar vaccine, declined after widespread use, one pneumoccocal strain called 19A developed super resistance and is now causing pneumoccocal disease that is antibiotic-resistant. In 2010, the FDA licensed a 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine to cover more strains, including 19A.

Certain vaccines have also been linked to a rise in type 1 diabetes in a number of studies. One such study, published in 2003, to further investigate this connection concluded that clusters of cases of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) may be linked to six different vaccines: the haemophilus influenza B (HIB), pertussis, MMR, and BCG vaccine. The authors stated:"The identification of clusters of cases of T1DM occurring in consistent temporal time periods allowed a link between the hemophilus vaccine and T1DM to be established. The current findings indicate the there are also clusters of cases of T1DM occurring 2-4 years post-immunization with the pertussis, MMR, and BCG vaccine. The data are consistent with the occurrence of clusters following mumps infection and the progression to T1DM in patients with antipancreatic autoantibodies."

In the late 1960's, an experimental vaccine in development, the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine killed two infants, and a staggering 80 percent of all children who received it were hospitalized with severe respiratory disease. A report issued eight years later concluded that the reason for this abysmal failure was because the children's antibodies did not bind to the inactivated virus to produce a protective immune response, meaning their immune system could not recognize the infectious invader. Instead, the dead virus circulated throughout their bodies, triggering a massive immune system attack.

Many Physicians do Not Want to Answer Your Vaccine Questions
Studies and occurrences like these certainly beg questions from vaccine-educated parents about safety and efficacy. However many physicians are reluctant to respond to them.
As more people become educated about vaccine side effects, they are demanding to take control of their health. This is a GREAT sign, as it means the more people are educating themselves, the more they are taking responsibility for making their own health care decisions.

In fact, according to a report in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, nearly 80 percent of pediatricians and family care physicians have at least one vaccine refusal a month, and 89 percent have at least one request a month to spread out the administration of vaccines over multiple visits.

The conclusion of the report, though, was that as parents become more aware of vaccine safety concerns, physicians are having to take more time discussing this at appointments. And this, the report found, was making their jobs "less satisfying," especially for pediatricians.

That's right, the study found that 46 percent of pediatricians reported their job was less satisfying because of parental vaccine concerns. After all, the study shows that about one in two doctors may spend up to 19 minutes on the topic with parents who have substantial concerns about vaccine safety.

The researchers actually concluded: "The burden of communicating with parents about vaccines is high, especially among pediatricians. Physicians report the greatest success convincing skeptical parents using messages that rely on their personal choices and experiences."

In other words, since it's apparently simply too much trouble for pediatricians to address the valid concerns of parents AND because pediatricians do not have good answers for why so many highly vaccinated children are so sick, perhaps they shouldn't bother answering questions, or perhaps they should instill their own personal beliefs and vaccine risk denial onto patients in an effort to shut them up quickly.

FDA Finds Vaccine Plant Has Burnt Shrink Wrap in Vaccine Vials
Another excellent example of why you have every right to question the vaccines being offered to your children came from a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inspection report from April 2011 of Merck's biggest vaccine-making plant. The report found bits of charred plastic shrink wrap in vaccine vials -- and this was not a new or isolated occurrence.

According to Fox News, at least 12 reports have been submitted to the FDA from Merck regarding shrink wrap in vaccines since November 2009, and eight of these came from consumer complaints. The April report noted that the shrink wrap was reportedly not removed during a washing process and was then charred during a sterilization process. The agency also noted that health risks from the plastic in vaccines could not be ruled out.

Vaccine contamination such as this is a very real threat. Last year, a research team discovered that GlaxoSmithKline's Rotarix vaccine was contaminated with "a substantial amount" of DNA from a pig virus, and this was after 1 million U.S. children, and about 30 million worldwide, had already received it. At the same time, a measles vaccine was also found to contain low levels of the retrovirus avian leukosis virus, and Rotateq, Merck's rotavirus vaccine, was found to contain a virus similar to simian (monkey) retrovirus.

Are You Looking to Become Educated About Vaccines?
The National Vaccine Information Center (NVIC) is clearly the leading Internet resource, providing objective, unbiased information that you will need to make intelligent, informed decisions about which vaccines you may want to administer for yourself, or your family member.
Your doctor, unfortunately, may not be the best source of information on this matter, unless he or she has taken the time to become educated personally about vaccines. And if your doctor belittles you, refuses to treat your family, or will not take the time to discuss your vaccine concerns with you, I suggest you find one who will. Remember, it is your choice and your responsibility to get educated about vaccination, and your doctor should work with you on this.
I also encourage you to get involved with the work that NVIC is doing to protect your right to choose which vaccines you want your children to get, including the legal right to use all, some, or no vaccines at all. Register for the free NVIC Advocacy Portal that educates you about how to communicate effectively with your elected state representatives and protect vaccine exemptions in your state. Stay informed about what is happening in your state and make your voice heard.

Go to http://www.nvicadvocacy.org/ and register today to take action.

Managing Your Emotions

2011-08-18T13:28:00.002-04:00

Since I was a young child, I've always been sensitive, emotional, and easily lead by how I FEEL, how I am TREATED, and how those around me are ACTING.

It has taken (and takes) a lot of work to not always go on my feelings. At times, it is a good thing -- consoling a friend who is upset and sharing in the tears. At times, it is not a good thing -- reacting immediately or holding grudges.

I stumbled upon this via Christianity Today and thought it was worth the share! View the link for "How Can I Manage my Emotions."

Pool & Popsicles

2011-07-05T07:23:00.008-04:00

A Healthier Hot Dog

2011-07-03T06:38:00.004-04:00

Since it's that time of the year...here is some info that I copied on choosing healthy hot dogs for family.

First off, let’s talk about the bad and what to avoid:

• Steer clear of big fat dogs. Beware of jumbo, stadium and bun-length dogs, which can be almost double the size of a regular dog and have more of everything—including calories, fat and sodium. For example, Ball Park Jumbo Beef Franks have 240 calories, 8 grams of saturated fat (36% of your daily recommended limit) and 670 mg of sodium (28% of your daily recommended limit). And watch out for saturated fat. Some bruisers, such as Oscar Mayer’s XXL Premium Beef Franks, manage to pack a solid 9 grams of artery-punishing saturated fat into each link (40% of your daily recommended limit). The dog, which weighs in at 76 grams, are 57% bigger than the Oscar Mayer Classic Turkey Hot Dog at 45 grams.

• Beware of salty dogs. If you think opting for a turkey or chicken frank is going to cut the fat, you’re usually right but watch out: often sodium is added in place of fat. For instance, Oscar Mayer’s Turkey Franks have just 2.5 grams of saturated fat and 100 calories, but they have 510 mg of sodium. And the Foster Farms Chicken Frank packs a slug-melting 550 mg of sodium into each hot dog—about a quarter to a third of your daily limit, and that’s before you add the bun and toppings. Yikes!

So then, what’s a health-conscious griller to do? Here’s how to pick a healthier dog:

• Choose hot dogs labeled “Uncured” or “No added nitrates.” Sodium nitrite or nitrate (additives found in most hot dogs to help extend shelf life) are linked by some (but not all) experts to increased cancer risk.

• Pick sodium-smart dogs. We tasted, it’s true: dogs don’t have to be salt bombs to taste great. Look for brands with 370 mg sodium or less. For beef dogs, check out Applegate’s Uncured Beef Hot Dog, which has a delicious beefy flavor and weighs in at only 70 calories, with only 2 grams of fat and 330 mg of sodium—though you’d never know it to try them, since they have the fatty, salty flavor of a less healthy dog! High marks also go to the Boar’s Head Lite Skinless Beef Frankfurter, which has a mild, German-style wurst flavor and keeps its numbers similarly slim with fat and calories, even managing to shave off a bit of sodium. That’s no small feat, since many “lite” brands of beef hot dog are big-time sodium offenders. Health-wise, we liked Applegate Uncured Turkey Dog, which has a rich, savory flavor that mimics a beef or pork dog, and boasts a trim 40 calories, 1 gram of saturated fat and amazing 260 mg of sodium.

• Go for organic hot dogs. These dogs, such as Applegate’s Great Organic Uncured Beef Hot Dog, are made from organically raised animals, not treated with antibiotics or hormones. Plus they skip the nitrites and nitrates.

• For all-out nutrition, nothing tops a veggie dog, such as the Lightlife Smart Dog, which clocks in at 45 calories and 0 grams of fat—that’s a dog you shouldn’t feel bad heaping toppings upon! Also impressive was the Tofu Pup, which had a mere 0.5 gram of saturated fat.

Independent Health Care

2011-06-28T13:36:00.003-04:00

Being self-employed is a whole new world to me. Just one realm is health insurance. I have had the luxury of working for companies that offer it and it is convenience. Enter stage left: get married, have a baby, stay-at-home, end of health insurance.
Brent has always had to either for his own medical needs or pay a high amount for health insurance.
Recently, Brent was talking to a long time friend who said that he and his family of 5 recently started using Medi-Share. We looked into it and are going to use them.

Basically, it is participants helping one another through medical bill sharing. When we heard this, we were on board. Isn't it Biblical to share one anothers burdens anyway?

If I've peaked your interest, check out this link.

Oh yeah, they won't be affected by ObamaCare or the health care reform. WOOOWHOOO!!

Here's to your health! :)

Think Before You Drink

2011-06-14T13:51:00.004-04:00

Not all liquids are created equal. Why drink your calories? Avoid unnecessary sugar!

WORST WATER:
Vitaminwater Multi-V (1 bottle, 20 oz)
125 calories
0 g fat
33 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Glaceau Smartwater (1 bottle, 24 oz)
0 calories
0 g fat
0 g sugars

WORST SODA:
Sunkist (1 can, 12 oz)
190 calories
0 g fat
50 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Izze Sparkling Clementine (1 bottle, 12 oz)
120 calories
0 g fat
27 g sugars

WORST BOTTLED TEA:
SoBe Energize Green Tea (1 bottle, 20 oz)
240 calories
0 g fat
61 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Honest Tea Community Green Tea (1 bottle, 16 oz)
34 calories
0 g fat
10 g sugars

WORST LEMONADE:
Orange Julius Lemon Julius (medium, 20 oz)
360 calories
0 g fat
94 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Chick-fil-A Diet Lemonade (medium, 20 oz)
20 calories
0 g fat
2 g sugars

WORST FROZEN COFFEE DRINK:
Dairy Queen Caramel MooLatte (medium, 16 oz)
660 calories
19 g fat (15 g saturated, 0.5 g trans)
90 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Starbucks Coffee Frappuccino with 2% milk (Grande size, 16 oz)
230 calories
2 g fat (1 g saturated)
49 g sugars

WORST SMOOTHIE:
Smoothie King The Activator Strawberry (32 oz)
834 calories
1.5 g fat (0 g saturated)
134 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Jamba Juice Strawberry Nirvana (Power size, 30 oz)
300 calories
0.5 g fat
58 g sugars

WORST MILKSHAKE:
Cold Stone Creamery Oh Fudge! Shake (Like It size, 16 oz)
1,250 calories
70 g fat (45 g saturated)
127 g sugars
Drink This Instead:
Baskin-Robbins Chocolate Shake (with Premium Churned Milk Chocolate Ice Cream) (small, 16 oz)
500 calories
16 g fat (10 g saturated)
73 g sugars

DID YOU KNOW? The average American consumes 450 liquid calories every day, and sugar-laden summer drinks are some of the worst offenders.

THE Jeans: Size 4

2011-05-04T13:13:00.007-04:00

We've all done it. Lost weight. We look the best we've EVER looked! (Except the time when we were beanpoles in high school.) And, we buy the perfect pair of jeans. They are small. Possibly, the smallest size we've ever purchased.

ARE
LOOKIN'
GOOOOOOOD.

Then, IT happens. The weight comes back -- whether by our own hand, pregnancy, health, whatever.

The jeans don't fit.

We look at the jeans EVERY time we look into the closet. Stare at them. Curse at them. Wave our fists at them.

Yet, in our madness. We don't do anything with them. They hang in our closets as a goal -- LOSE THE WEIGHT AGAIN! But, if that goal seems to NOT be reached, we slowly start moving those jeans out of sight. Soon, they are packed away -- visibly, but not mentally.

So, this is where I am.

Before I had Jake, I bought a pair of size 4 1969 GAP jeans. Wow did I feel SLENDER. It's because I was. I can no longer blame my lack of weight loss on the pregnancy. I am 18 months removed from that! :) Now, I only blame my lack of food control & my lack of time to exercise as much as I used to in the intensity that I used to.

There lies the rub.

Give 'em away?

Keep the goal?

Cravings ...

2011-03-24T07:09:00.003-04:00

I snack.

I snack too much.

Some of you are thinking, "Kara?! Snacking!? Healthy Kara?"

Yes. Me. I'm FINALLY admitting it.

But, I'm not popping bonbons. I don't cram cookies. I'm not eating ice cream. I don't stop at McDonald's for a Big Mac.

I do eat when I am not hungry though -- apples, grapes, almonds, yogurt, low-fat string cheese.

So, it's not fun food, but anything not in moderation STILL ISN'T GOOD.

In just a day, I have had two friends reference the book "Made to Crave." Coincidence? I don't think so since I don't believe in coincidence.

I'm going to start reading it.

I need a healthy perspective on eating.

Here it goes . . .

Homemade Face Wash

2011-03-19T06:37:00.003-04:00

The Oil Cleansing Method
Yup, we’re washing our face with oil — which I know sounds absolutely ridiculous.

I did a bit of research and found that traditional cleansers strip skin of its natural oils, leaving it tight and dry. The oil cleansing method uses caster oil to cleans the skin, and sunflower oil or olive oil to moisturize the skin; resulting in soft, glowing skin without the need for extra lotions or products. {I’m not a dermatologist, but if you’re interested, you can read all about the Oil Cleansing Method here.}

Don’t worry, it’s REALLY simple to make, and practically free!

Ingredients:
1. Caster Oil — found in the laxative section of your grocery store
2. Sunflower Oil or Olive Oil – we’re using sunflower oil
3. A small plastic bottle with tight sealing cap – found in the travel-size section
4. A soft washcloth

Making the Oil Cleansing Face Wash:
Mix the two oils in a small, flip-top plastic bottle according to your skin type.
NORMAL SKIN: Mix one-part caster oil with one-part sunflower oil.
OILY SKIN: Mix two or three-parts caster oil with one-part sunflower oil.
DRY SKIN: Mix one-part caster oil with two or three-parts sunflower oil.

Using the Oil Cleansing Method:
1. Pour a quarter-size amount of the oil mixture into your hand
2. Gently massage the oil into your skin for about one minute
3. Run a clean washcloth under very warm water
4. Lay washcloth over your face and let it sit for another minute – this is key to “steaming” the impurities out of your pores
5. Rinse washcloth and gently rub the remaining oil, dirt, make-up, and residue off your face
6. Repeat rinsing if necessary
7. Enjoy really smooth and moisturized skin with out the need for lotion!

Christmas Bliss

2010-12-30T06:36:00.007-05:00

ONE ONE ONE ONE!!!!!

2010-11-04T20:19:00.009-04:00

Pumpkins are fun!

2010-10-09T10:14:00.007-04:00

I took Jake to Young's so that he could see the petting zoo. He was more interested in crawling around the pumpkins. I love this age . . . discovering things is such a wonderment. He had so much to take in yesterday. We had fun!

Standing is Fun

2010-08-19T08:54:00.002-04:00

If Jacob can grab onto it, he'll stand. Leverage? Yup, he'll pull himself up. Then, he looks around for someone watching him and smiles with a hint of a chuckle. Translation? He thinks he's tough shiz. And, we love it.

Well, the growing up so quickly we could do without, but we love his joy of discovery and then satisfaction and pride in himself. GO JAKE!!

My Birthday Hike

2010-08-01T10:30:00.006-04:00

Lake Jake

2010-06-30T12:49:00.011-04:00

Jake loves water. 'Nuff said :)

Where does the time go?

2010-05-27T06:05:00.009-04:00

As I look at these photos and compare them with my last post's pics, it amazes me how much Jacob has changed. I don't notice it in the everyday . . . but wow. He is a joy! Even though he struggles with teething pain, he loves to smile. He looks at me with those ready eyes and I make him laugh. Such a silly baby!! And, I love it.

He snuggles with me more. He now reaches out for me :) If someone else is holding him, he will crank his head to make sure that I'm still around. I think that it is safe to say that he loves his mama.

We spent a little time playing outside. He loves to be outside -- wind in his face, all the sounds, much to see!

My Handsome Jacob on Easter

2010-04-16T06:38:00.004-04:00

I Love Avocados!

2010-03-24T19:55:00.003-04:00

FOOD! We Tried Again

2010-03-08T05:43:00.004-05:00

Brent & I waited a couple of days before trying the cereal again. This time, HE ATE!!

From the look on his face, you would've thought that he didn't like it, but he kept opening his mouth for more. We were conservative though! The doc said he could probably eat the whole bowl, but we need to go slow at first and feed him a few spoonfulls every other morning.

Tuesday . . . HERE WE COME!

So Much for Waiting: FOOD

2010-03-04T08:55:00.002-05:00

We decided to feed Jake this morning!! We felt like he may be ready. We fed him Organic whole grain cereal -- spelt, barley, oats. Since all he knows is breast milk, he seemed a little unsure. We'll try again tomorrow! Enjoy!

15 Pounds and Getting Heavy

2010-02-24T15:44:00.003-05:00

Jake's 4 months doctor appointment was yesterday...Actually, 1 week before he is 4 months. All was great. He is gaining weight, 15 pounds and that puts him in the 85 percentile. He is 25 inches long and that puts him in the 80 percentile. Yay!

I asked about starting solids, but my doc strongly encouraged keeping him on breast milk until he is 6 months old. :) Sooo, I will wait. Then, I'll start him on organic brown rice cereal....graduate to veggies (starting with fruit makes them want sweets first) and then fruits. I am excited to make his own baby food.

Jake is talking A TON....using his tongue more. When he is serious, you know he has something to REALLY tell you about. Hilarious.

My dad got Jake this outfit....too cute!

Total Cuteness!

2010-01-05T11:58:00.006-05:00

Jake is now 11 lbs. 12 oz. and 24 inches long.

Jacob Gregory Gibbs

2009-11-11T07:35:00.002-05:00

He's finally here!

8lbs 13oz

21 3/4 in.

Donald Miller: In a Town Near You?

2009-10-01T07:07:00.003-04:00

Don't forget, to check and see if Don Miller will be speaking at his lecture series near you. Tell him Brent sent you :), and again, say "Hello" to my husband for me! ha!

Arrested Development and My Hubby

2009-09-29T19:48:00.005-04:00

Brent was able to meet one of our favorite actors, Tony Hale. To those that love Arrested Develpment, he is Buster Bluth!!

Not only does he attend church and is friends with Brent's friend Gary, but also he is friends with Don Miller.

Hey Brother!

36 Weeks...4 To Go!

2009-09-22T18:36:00.001-04:00

How your baby's growing:Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath.

Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position. But if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.

My New Thing . . .

2009-09-16T10:42:00.002-04:00

I wake up SOAKED some nights!! Heavy sweating! So soaked, that I have to change my pajamas! And, our A/C is set at 64 degrees :)

I found some information on it...interesting...

Night sweats during pregnancy is the evening cousin of hot flashes, but typically more intense. Night sweats during pregnancy, which is also known as "nocturnal hyperhydrosis", isn't actually a sleep disorder, but it is a common perspiration disorder that occurs during sleep. A night sweat can become bad enough to wake you up night after night, either due to the uncontrolled heat over your body, or being wet and shivering because of damp sleepwear.

One of the most common causes of Night sweats during pregnancy in women is the hormonal changes related to pregnancy. Normally, the hypothalamus (heat regulatory area in the brain) regulates the body heat accordingly with the ambient. If it's hot outside, it makes the body release heat. And if cold outside, it keeps the heat in the body. However, Night sweats during pregnancy are produced because the hypothalamus (the heat regulator) starts overproducing heat.The declining level of estrogen hormones, associated with pregnancy, are responsible for the malfunction of the hypothalamus (heat regulatory area), which detects an increased body temperature and releases chemicals that cause the skin blood vessels to dilate so the heat can be released; therefore, starting the night sweats during pregnancy. This process could be accompanied by cold shivering.

34 Weeks and Counting...

2009-09-08T11:17:00.001-04:00

Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder.

Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well.

If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

31 Weeks - Gutus Rotundus

2009-08-20T10:27:00.001-04:00

This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long.

He weighs about 3.3 pounds and is heading into a growth spurt.

He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin.

He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up.

A Million Miles in a Thousand Years

2009-08-11T14:30:00.002-04:00

As some of you know, Brent & I honeymooned in Portland, Oregon. Mostly because I fell in love with it after going there for a business trip . . . and partly because one of my "favorite" authors is from there, Donald Miller.

In fact, prior to marrying Brent, I was intently looking for a job there. I WAS READY TO MOVE.

Brent & I both enjoy Donald Miller's books, his causes, and how he provokes us to think. At our wedding, we gave each family a gift bag of our favorites. In them, we either put Don's book, Blue Like Jazz or Searching for God Knows What.
Why is this relevant? Beginning in September and going through November, Brent will be the tour manager for the release of Donald Miller's new book "A Million Miles in Thousand Years." Don will be doing a lecture series at varies venues around the U.S.

Here is the link to the tour site. If he's in a city near you, I strongly encourage your attendance!! :) Oh, and you can say "hello" to Brent for me! HA!!

Baby Nursery Items!

2009-08-11T11:13:00.009-04:00

This is the crib! It converts into a toddler bed. My parents & sister purchased the crib & dresser for us! Color is coffee.

The changing table rim comes off! Then, it can just be a dresser for when Gibbotka no longer needs his/her diaper changed! Genius!

This is one of the bedding sets...Trying to keep it neutral!

My mom found this set & bought it as an alternate. I know it's blue, but the color is more of a robin's egg. We thought it'd make a great neutral as well.

29 Weeks...Belly is Growing FAST!

2009-08-02T17:24:00.003-04:00

I'm in my third trimester. While I feel good, there are also some not so great things that I'm experiencing. My insomnia seems worse. I think the only sleep that I am getting is from around 4 a.m. to 6 a.m., when I get up to start my day for work. Through the night, I feel as though I'm going to go mad. . . the nights are LOOOOONG. Towards the end of the day, around 5 p.m., I start to feel a pulling and tightness at the top of my rib cage. The doctor said that these are Braxton/Hicks. Whatever they are, it makes me feel UNCOMFORTABLE. . . add that to my already uncomfortable evenings to try and sleep. Then just the general overall uncomfortable feeling that I get in my uterus, belly area, etc. . . I'm also feeling more and more tired.

The 10 things I miss most during pregnancy

2009-07-21T10:40:00.002-04:00

A normal sense of smell - Either I smell everything or smells make me sick!

Wine or a margarita!

Off-limits foods - Sushi and the freedom to eat soft cheeses and deli meats.

Peaceful sleep - I'm either wide awake, have restless leg, or can't get comfortable.

Feeling sexy - How can I? It looks as though I've swallowed a basketball.

Feeling strong and independent - Have you seen me get off the couch??

Running - My leg muscles won't allow me.

Pre-pregnancy body - It was the first and one time in my life that I actually was happy with the way I looked.

Emotional control - Oooh boy! Sad...irritable...without explanation.

Caffeinating like I used to - Quit coffee cold turkey. I miss it. Decaf for now!

26 Weeks....Really??

2009-07-14T17:45:00.004-04:00

Here's what is going on:

The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches from head to heel.

My Sleep Struggles

2009-07-09T13:13:00.002-04:00

Great are the hormones that affect my sleep at night. I struggle from:

Can't get comfortable at night
Insomnia
Restless Leg

1. Can't get comfortable:
Sleeping flat on your back puts the full weight of your uterus on your back, intestines, and your inferior vena cava (the vein that transports blood from your lower body to your heart). Back-sleeping can also increase your risk for backaches and hemorrhoids, inefficient digestion, and impaired breathing and circulation.

2. Insomnia:
With such a litany of physical and emotional sleep disturbances to cope with, it's no surprise that 78% of women have insomnia and other sleep problems during pregnancy.

3: Restless Leg:
Some researchers estimate that up to 20 percent of pregnant women develop this problem during the last few months of pregnancy, though others believe it's much less common than that. If symptoms are disrupting your sleep night after night, you may end up seriously fatigued. The good news is that if your RLS started during your pregnancy, it's likely to disappear altogether within two to four weeks after you give birth.

Running? No More...

2009-07-06T11:43:00.003-04:00

Well, the time has come. I've hung up my running shoes.

I was hoping to be one of those women that could run/jog through the end.

A little over my 5 month mark and my legs begin to peter out on me! When I run, just a mile, my leg muscles feel as though I'm running on a steep incline. So, the fact that pregnant women's joints & ligaments soften through their pregnancy is very true for me. Instead, I do the elliptical machine and strength train. It's not the same, but at least I'm moving!! :)

I'm sad. I miss the road.

Insomnia. . .

2009-06-14T06:36:00.002-04:00

I've been experiencing insomnia, more times than not, since around week 7 of my pregnancy. My doctor said that she does NOT suggest ANY types of sleep aids to her patients, and I should try relaxation methods. Ummm, yeah, that doesn't work.

I think I've gotten around 10 good nights, seriously. I don't drink caffeine anymore. I try to stay up late. I don't eat after 7 a.m. Annnnnd, nada.

It's about to drive me mad!

Exercise during pregnancy may help baby's development

2009-06-02T11:50:00.003-04:00

(HealthDay News) -- Exercising during pregnancy appears to boost fetal development, according to a U.S. study.

The study included pregnant women, ages 20 to 35, who were divided into two groups. Those in the exercise group did moderate intensity aerobic exercise for at least 30 minutes three times per week. Those in the control group did not get regular exercise.

A team at the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences and the University of Kansas Medical Center used non-invasive tests to monitor fetal development, breathing and body movements, as well as fetal heart rate and autonomic nervous system control.

The main aim of the study was to determine whether exercise during pregnancy resulted in cardiovascular benefits to the fetus. The secondary goal was to determine if exercise during pregnancy increasing fetal breathing movements, a marker of well-being and of functional development of the respiratory system.

The study found that:

Fetal heart rate was significantly lower in the exercise group during both breathing and non-breathing movement periods.
Fetal short-term and overall heart rate variability were higher in the exercise group during breathing movements.
The exercise-exposed fetuses had higher measures of vagal (cardiovascular) control during breathing movements.

No significant differences in measures of vagal control between the two groups were noted during periods of fetal non-breathing, and there were no group or breathing differences in sympathetic heart rate control.

"These findings suggest a potential benefit of maternal exercise on fetal development because of the link between fetal breathing movements and the developing autonomic nervous system," concluded the researchers.

Running Preggers

2009-05-26T05:57:00.002-04:00

Since so many people that I know think I'm crazy for still running while pregnant, here is some info on it from Babyzone...

There's no need to retire your running shoes for the next nine months.

Stephanie Kager didn't run during her first four pregnancies because she thought it was unsafe for her babies, but she learned she was pregnant with her fifth child while already training for her first marathon. Once Kager knew she was expecting, she switched to training for a half marathon and, at 19 weeks, ran a fun run at Disney. "After that, I set small goals for myself to keep myself motivated: keep running until the third trimester, keep running a weekly ten-mile run until delivery, and run on the day of delivery," she says. Kager never thought she could run with her first pregnancies but knew differently by number five. What's stopping you from lacing up your shoes?

Are you a runner?
If you were running before becoming pregnant, you don't need to stop just because you're expecting, says Dr. Lanalee Sam, MD, medical director for Elite Obstetrical and Gynecology in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A healthy, low-risk pregnancy enables you to continue your exercise routine without dramatic changes. Of course, if you were never a runner, pregnancy is not the time to start a strenuous new exercise regimen.

A runner since the age of 15, Amy Fox of Virginia continued to run into her seventh month with her first pregnancy and into her fifth month with her second and third. Concerning herself less with mileage once she was pregnant, Fox just ran as long as she could, usually around 25 minutes taking breaks as needed. Postpartum, she was back on the trail when her first baby was only a few weeks old.

Dr. Sam says that there is no specific time for women to start running again if they've delivered vaginally—a week to two weeks is fine. Every woman needs to listen to her healthcare provider and own body when it comes to postpartum exercise, as some women may be ready sooner than others.

When shouldn't you run?
Being at risk for certain medical conditions can halt even seasoned runners from running during pregnancy. Always consult your physician before embarking on an exercise program while you're expecting.

"Problems can include placenta previa, preterm labor, short cervix, preeclampsia, or a growth restricted baby," says Dr. Annette Perez-Delboy, MD of Columbia Eastside in New York. If you suffer from any of these conditions, it's going to be time-out for you until your baby arrives.
There are also risk factors to look for during your run. "If pregnant runners see that their heart is beating very fast, if there is shortness of breath or any bleeding, they should stop," says Dr. Perez-Delboy. Since the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists no longer has exact guidelines on heart rate monitoring during exercise, you should try to run comfortably without feeling out of breath or overextended. Dr. Sam says that staying below 150 beats per minute is still optimal.

Dr. Sam adds that if you notice tightening in your abdomen (contractions), leakage of fluid, fatigue, or dizziness, it's time to stop. "You really need to be in tune with your body and know when enough is enough and not to push yourself," she says.

How much should you drink?
Staying hydrated is another way to make sure that your body doesn't overheat and helps to maintain the requirements your body needs to transport nutrients through the blood, decrease the risk of hypertension due to an increased blood volume, and reduce preterm labor.
Try to drink before, during, and after your run. A total of eight to ten eight-ounce glasses of water should be consumed daily at a minimum. Remember, keep drinking water even if you don't feel thirsty—once you are, you're already dehydrated.

When should you call it quits?
It can be hard to stop doing something you love. If running is your passion and you've done it for years, it may be difficult to hang up your shoes and turn to walking, swimming, or stationary biking.

Some women can run up until the last weeks of pregnancy, while others need to stop before then. How will you know when it's time? Your body will probably send you a memo.

"Most women stop running altogether because of extra weight and abdominal pressure by the last few weeks of pregnancy," says Dr. Sam. She sees that the majority of her patients accept the fact that they will be walking by the third trimester.

Tapsak ran until a few weeks before her due date with her third pregnancy and then did power walking. With her fourth, she ran until seven months and then was too uncomfortable. "The strain on my low back and tail bone was a little too much to run up until the very end," she says.
Running is a great way to maintain your fitness levels during pregnancy—just remember that pregnancy is not the time to try new things or reach for your personal best. When running for two you've got more weight to carry, less ability to breathe deeply, and more than yourself to think about. Stay hydrated and cool, listen to your body, and let it tell you how far you should go and when you should stop. Now get running!

I FNISHED THE RACE!!

2009-05-10T18:56:00.004-04:00

Wow! I did better than I ever could've expected! :) God was with me and gave me strength, endurance, and safety. I ran the whole way & never stopped to walk or to take a break!!

Finish: 2:45:05
Pace: 10:39 minute miles

5/3 River Bank Run: May 9

2009-05-05T13:07:00.002-04:00

I started training for this 25K (or 15.625 miles) around November of last year. My running pals and I started to actually settle into an increased speed of 9:30 minute miles! And, we felt good. Then, I started to feel myself get winded and a bit tired. And...you know why :)

I still ran with my friends, but would take it easy or slow down or call Brent to come and get me, if I felt myself run out of energy.

Wanting to RACE this run, I contemplated not running it, just doing the 10K associated with it, or running the FULL DISTANACE. I'm running the full distance. :)

I will stop at EVERY hydration station for water/gatorade and I'm going to start with an 11 minute mile pace group to ensure that I just go slow & steady. Right now, it's about enjoying this run, not racing it for time or a PR.

DETAILS:

Vaccine Info

2009-04-27T14:34:00.002-04:00

Here is some interesting information that I found from a site / doctor (Dr. Mercola) that two friends of mine (who don't know each other!) sent me to:

In the Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule put out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12 vaccines are given to children before they reach the age of two. Providers inject them against the following:

Hepatitis B
Diphtheria
Tetanus (lockjaw)
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Polio
Pneumococcal infections
Hemophilus influenzae type b infections
Measles
Mumps
Rubella (German measles)
Chickenpox
Influenza (the flu)

Infectious disease was the leading cause of death in children 100 years ago, with diphtheria, measles, scarlet fever and pertussis accounting for most them. Today, the leading causes of death in children less than five years of age are accidents, genetic abnormalities, developmental disorders, sudden infant death syndrome and cancer. A basic tenet of modern medicine is that vaccines are the reason. There is growing evidence that this is so, but perhaps not quite in the way conventional medical wisdom would have it.

In summary, this is a vaccination schedule that I would recommend:

No vaccinations until a child is two years old.
No vaccines that contain thimerosal (mercury).
No live virus vaccines (except for smallpox, should it recur).

These vaccines should be given one at a time, every six months, beginning at age 2:

Pertussis (acellular, not whole cell)
Diphtheria
Tetanus
Polio (the Salk vaccine, cultured in human cells)

To Vaccinate or Not to Vaccinate...

2009-04-26T06:37:00.003-04:00

Brent & I have been doing a lot of reading and research on the matter of vaccinations for infants.

1) Do we do it at all?

2) Do we just use some of them?

We realized that those that are VERY pro-vaccination have never educated themselves on the history of WHY that certain vaccine even came into existance and certain side-effects. Very interesting.

There are doctor's that are anti-vaccinations period. But, we also found a wholistic doctor who listed just 8 (out of the 33 that kids receive before their in 1st grade!!) of the ones to get.

So much to think about and learn!!

Shingles...and not the kind on your roof!

2009-04-20T14:36:00.002-04:00

Since Brent has shingles, I thought I'd do an educational/medical post on shingles.

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a viral infection of the nerve roots. It causes pain and often causes a rash on one side of the body, the left or right. The rash appears in a band, a strip, or a small area. Shingles is most common in older adults and people who have weak immune systems because of stress, injury, certain medicines, or other reasons. Most people who get shingles will get better and will not get it again.

Shingles occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox starts up again in your body. After you get better from chickenpox, the virus "sleeps" (is dormant) in your nerve roots. In some people, it stays dormant forever. In others, the virus "wakes up" when disease, stress, or aging weakens the immune system. It is not clear why this happens. But after the virus becomes active again, it can only cause shingles, not chickenpox.

You can't catch shingles from someone else who has shingles.

Shingles symptoms happen in stages. At first you may have a headache or be sensitive to light. You may also feel like you have the flu but not have a fever.
Later, you may feel itching, tingling, or pain in a certain area. That’s where a band, strip, or small area of rash may occur a few days later. The rash turns into clusters of blisters. The blisters fill with fluid and then crust over. It takes 2 to 4 weeks for the blisters to heal, and they may leave scars. Some people only get a mild rash, and some do not get a rash at all.

It’s possible that you could also feel dizzy or weak, or you could have long-term pain or a rash on your face, changes in your vision, changes in how well you can think, or a rash that spreads. If you have any of these problems from shingles, call your doctor right away.

There is no cure for shingles, but treatment may help you get well sooner and prevent other problems. Call your doctor as soon as you think you may have shingles. The sooner you start treatment, the better it works. Treatment may include:
Antiviral medicines, sometimes given with steroid medicines, to help you get well sooner and feel less pain.

Medicines to help long-term pain. These include antidepressants, pain medicines, and skin creams.

Good home care can help you feel better faster. Take care of any skin sores, and keep them clean. Take your medicines as directed. And use over-the-counter pain medicines to relieve pain.
Avoid contact with people until the rash heals. While you have shingles, you can spread chickenpox to people who have never had chickenpox. Be extra careful to avoid people with weak immune systems and pregnant women and babies who have never had chickenpox.

Baby Wise

2009-04-15T10:53:00.002-04:00

I've been gleaning advice from friends who seem to have a really good grasp of parenting. Several have the same thing in common, they used Baby Wise to structure their children in the early years.

It's amazing how developing a schedule is beneficial to the baby's well-being and to the parents sanity. So, I began reading and thus far, the concepts totally make sense.

First, I was struck by the remark, "You are brining the baby into your world and not entering into the baby's world." So true... I've seen so many parents get led by their children and it only ends in exhaustion & misbehaved toddlers. Second, a baby that is scheduled is one that is happy and sleeping through the night!

Anyway, Brent & I are reading it together and loving it. :)

Redeemed

2009-04-10T05:30:00.002-04:00

Redeemed: saved from the bondage of sin

“For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.” (1 Peter 1:18-19)

This coming weekend is Good Friday and Easter—the crux of the Christian life. Our annual collective commemoration of the amazing cost and process and miracle of our salvation.

Let's praise Him for His sacrifice. Let's rejoice for HE IS RISEN.

Gibbotka in the Oven

2009-03-29T17:36:00.001-04:00

Brent & I have finally started to spread the word that, Lord willing, we'll be parents on, before, or after October 21, 2009!! I found out that I was pregnant before we left for Haiti. And, that's when the morning/afternoon sickness started...it then led to ALL DAY SICKNESS. I'm glad it was short lived -- 3 weeks.
We heard the heartbeat last week. That was AMAZING! 172 beats!!

Haiti

2009-03-08T15:32:00.012-04:00

Visiting Haiti was bittersweet. In a country riddled with povery and devastation, the people are friendly and inviting. The drive from the Port-au-Prince airport to New Missions was a shock to my soul. I have seen pictures in National Geographic and been upset at what I saw. I have seen shows on TV depicting the poverty and been disgusted. But, not until seeing it first-hand did the REALITY of a Fifth World country truly grieve me.

We went into villages and ministered to not only their minor medical needs, but also their spiritual needs. Haiti is connected strongly with voodoo. We took "gift bags" -- filled with neosporin, anti-bacterial hand gel, soap, first aid kits, pencils, hair ties, tooth brushes & toothpaste, shoes, clothes, etc. We gave a bag to each home we visited. We then shared Christ with each household. Some accepted. Some declined. Some said maybe later. :) The filth the villages have is staggering. They live amongst animal waste, their own waste, disease, trash, and filthy water.

Haiti Trip

2009-02-23T16:18:00.004-05:00

Brent, myself, and 10 college students leave Saturday, February 28 to serve at New Missions.

New Missions has 21 churches, a medical clinic, 21 preschools, 21 elementary schools, a high school, a Bible college, business school, and a Missions Training Center for hosting visiting teams.

Over 9,000 students, representing over 55 villages, are enrolled in New Missions schools. Approximately 1,000 people are cared for each month through the medical clinic ministry. New Missions employs over 300 Haitians to teach, preach, and meet the needs of their own people. New Missions is being used by God to help raise up a new generation that will literally change the course of Haiti's history... and eternity.

Weighing In

2009-02-17T15:11:00.001-05:00

**I've often wondered this and have been thinking about it this week. Found this & thought I'd post it!

It's tempting to to step on the scale every day when you're trying to lose weight, but that can be a big mistake. Weight loss isn't always linear, and the ups and downs can put you on an emotional roller coaster.

It's suggested that you weigh in no more than once a week. Weekly weigh-ins can help you keep tabs on your progress without causing a lot of unnecessary worry or anxiety. For the most accurate readings, be sure to:

• Use the same scale every time. Weight can vary a bit from scale to scale.
• Weigh in at the same time of day each week. Weight fluctuates during the day.
• Weigh in on the same day each week for the most consistent readings.
• Weigh yourself either without clothes or wearing the same amount of clothes each time.
• Kick off your shoes. They can add an extra pound or two.

Toxic Food Syndrome

2009-02-03T09:08:00.002-05:00

This is an e-newsletter from the doctor that I used to go to in Chicago. I thought it was interesting enough to post.

• A 35-year-old woman who has had two unsuccessful sinus surgeries and still remains chronically congested.
• TR, 44, described by the rheumatology department of a leading Chicago teaching hospital as having “seronegative rheumatoid arthritis,” meaning she had all the features of rheumatoid arthritis but her blood tests were negative for the condition.
• A young man seeing a world-famous gastroenterologist for his ulcerative colitis. He’s worried about the immune-suppressant drugs he’s been prescribed, yet when he asks if food allergies could be involved, his doctor dismisses his concerns as quackery.
• BD is just four years old. A third of her body is covered with an eczema-like rash and her pediatrician wants her tested for attention deficit disorder.

Need more examples? How about chronic obesity despite dramatic calorie restriction? Unexplained mood swings…chronic indigestion…fatigue…headaches...acne...asthma…poor focus and concentration.

Except for obvious food allergies, like the severe reactions from peanuts and shellfish or lip swelling from strawberries, I was never taught a thing in medical school about food sensitivities as a cause of chronic illness. And decades later, medical students haven’t progressed one iota. Gastroenterologists, allergists, and rheumatologists are either oblivious to the role of toxic foods or openly hostile to the concept.

When I explain the reasons for this deliberate ignorance of food sensitivities to non-medical people they shake their heads in disbelief. They don’t believe American physicians would compromise the health of their patients on the basis of nothing more than a glorified turf war.

Here’s the story: At the onset, the American medical profession’s contempt for any research not homegrown may have played a part. The first articles about toxic foods appeared in South African medical journals in the 1960s. More articles then appeared in the UK. American doctors seem to vaguely distrust anything beyond our borders, and woe betide any research that has to be translated.

What South African doctors realized was that certain foods could sufficiently irritate the lining of the intestinal tract so that large, incompletely digested food molecules could “leak” through the intestinal barrier. This, in turn, would trigger an emergency response from the immune system, which would produce antibodies in much the same way that antibodies are produced against viruses, bacteria, and even cancer cells.

However, instead of the antibody (called an IgG antibody) clearing out these large food molecules, it attached itself to them, and this clump would land somewhere in the body and start causing problems. It might irritate joint linings and produce arthritis symptoms, irritate sinuses and cause chronic nasal congestion, or land in muscles and diminish muscle efficiency, causing fatigue.

This unusual reaction to food differed from regular allergies (like hay fever or hives) because with an allergy, a different family of antibodies (IgE) shows up and triggers the release of the chemical histamine, which causes symptoms. This is why you take an anti-histamine, like Claritin, for hay fever.

Given this information, US allergy specialists stated categorically, “If there’s no histamine, there’s no allergy. This ‘leaky gut’ stuff is nonsense!” They then convinced the gastroenterologists there were no food sensitivities with comments like “Do antihistamines work for ulcerative colitis? Of course not.” Worse yet, the insurance companies, not wanting to pay for anything to begin with, asked the allergists if they should be paying for food sensitivity testing.

“Ha!” answered the allergy association, “Why not pay for homeopathy or snake oil or acupuncture while you’re at it.”

And so, to this day, the vast majority of health insurers will not pay for food sensitivity testing unless (and here’s the best part) it is performed under the supervision of a certified allergist and specifically tests for IgE antibodies.

Currently, millions of people are eating foods responsible for a whole range of chronic symptoms, from memory problems and asthma to headaches and obesity. These same people swallow vast amounts of prescription drugs to suppress, but never cure, their symptoms. This of course pleases the pharmaceutical industry, which would collapse if patients started taking their health into their own hands.

Be well,David Edelberg, MD

My Next Race

2009-01-11T06:39:00.005-05:00

The 32nd annual Fifth Third River Bank Run is

Saturday, May 9, 2009.

It's a 25k or 15 miles.

Elevation changes on the run.

Battle of the Brews

2008-12-29T12:40:00.002-05:00

Tea vs. Coffee

Reach for java--hot or cold--before a race, and you might outlast your competitors. Opt for tea and you'll get less of a jolt, but your body will appreciate the antioxidant boost.

To Finish Strong
Coffee: Athletes who swear by the jump-start that coffee provides have reason to gloat. Endurance athletes ran on a treadmill to exhaustion in 32 minutes, but were able to last an additional 10 minutes after drinking coffee with a good dose (250 milligrams) of caffeine, according to the Journal of Applied Physiology. The caffeine in coffee likely stimulates the nervous system, helping you ignore fatigue and recruit more muscles for intense exercise, says registered dietitian Mary Lee Chin of Nutrition Edge Communications. Greater concentration may help your performance as well, she adds. However, coffee has the potential to reduce iron absorption, and low iron stores can leave you slow and tired. If your iron levels run low, drink coffee an hour or so before meals. Don't worry about the supposed dehydrating effects of caffeine. The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies concluded that the liquid in the beverage cancels out the mild diuretic effect of the caffeine.

Tea: Ounce for ounce, there's less caffeine in tea, so expect the performance edge to be less, too. Count on 16 ounces of black tea to contain 60 to 100 milligrams of caffeine. (An equal amount of coffee has 150 to 330 milligrams of caffeine.) In other words, you'd have to down about three cups of tea to equal one cup of joe. However, this decreased amount of caffeine may be easier on a nervous stomach, especially on race-day morning.

Advantage: Coffee

To Gain the Mental Edge
Coffee: You know that the caffeine in a cup of high-grade brew will wake you up, but did you know that coffee can help boost brainpower? Chemicals in coffee may improve memory, says Dr. Peter R. Martin, director of the Institute for Coffee Studies at Vanderbilt University. A European study found that over 10 years, participants who drank three cups of coffee daily had less than half the cognitive decline of non coffee-drinkers. Many of the estimated 1,000 compounds in coffee have significant antioxidant effects and decrease total body inflammation, thought to be a precursor to many diseases, adds Martin. Drink brewed coffee--not instant--to get the most antioxidants.

Tea: Tea also sends your brain the message to perk up and pay attention. But tea has something coffee doesn't: the amino acid theanine. Theanine increases alpha brainwave activity, which helps you concentrate despite auditory and visual distractions, explains John Foxe, Ph.D., director of the Cognitive Neuroscience Program at City University of New York. Further, the antioxidants in tea may help prevent the oxidative stress thought to play a role in the development of Alzheimer's disease, says registered dietitian Marie Spano.

Advantage: Tie

To Keep Your Bones Strong
Coffee: No matter what you may have heard, coffee doesn't stunt growth. Because of the high caffeine content in coffee, you'll lose a bit of calcium with each cup, but take in adequate calcium, and you'll still be standing tall. In a study of Swedish women, caffeine and coffee were associated with increased fracture only in women with the lowest calcium intakes. The real problem is having caffeinated drinks in lieu of bone-building, calcium-containing beverages.

Tea: Several studies suggest that tea drinkers have stronger bones. Adults older than 30 who were habitual tea drinkers for at least six years showed greater bone mineral density than non-tea drinkers. Researchers suspect tea's flavonoids, compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, improve bone mass. To gain the most advantage, choose brewed teas and steer clear of the bottled and instant teas.

Advantage: Tea

To Love Your Heart
Coffee: Drink to your health! The more coffee you drink, the less likely you are to die from cardiovascular disease, says Martin. Among participants in the Nurse's Health Study and Health Professional Follow-up Study, coffee consumption reduced the risk for death from cardiovascular disease, independent of caffeine intake. So how much coffee should you drink? "If you can sleep, drink more," says Martin. But beware: Unfiltered coffee like that prepared by boiling or French press contains compounds called diterpenes that raise LDL (bad) cholesterol. One more caveat: Some research has suggested that among high-risk individuals who rarely drink coffee and are slow metabolizers of caffeine, coffee may trigger a heart attack.

Tea: The more tea you drink, the lower your risk for heart disease, says Jeffrey Blumberg, Ph.D., director of the Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging. There is "some protection noted in those drinking one cup daily, more protection in those consuming two to three cups each day, and the lowest risk in those with intakes of four to five or more cups per day," he adds. Tea flavonoids inhibit the oxidation of LDL-cholesterol, seem to reduce inflammation and improve the response of blood vessels to stress, he explains.

Advantage: Tie

Holiday Health Myths

2008-12-23T07:28:00.002-05:00

Myth: Sugar makes kids hyperactive
Release the candy canes! Children who eat sugar act no differently than those who have none, according to 12 placebo-controlled studies. One study found that when parents thought their children had been given a sugary drink (it was sugar free), they rated their child's behavior as hyperactive. “A lot of occasions when kids are exposed to sugar are when they are most likely to be super excited, running around, and acting out,” says Dr. Carroll. Other research has hinted that artificial dyes and preservatives may be a problem, not sugar.

Myth: Poinsettias are toxic
A 1996 analysis of 22,793 poinsettia cases reported to the American Association of Poison Control Centers revealed no significant poisoning. It's possible to become ill by consuming a large amount of the plant, but it’s rare, even in small children and pets, says Edward Krenzelok, PharmD, director of the Pittsburgh Poison Control Center and Drug Information Center at the University of Pittsburgh. Some studies suggest that poinsettia sap can be irritating to the skin.

Myth: You lose most of your body heat through your head

An old military study found that people in Arctic survival suits (but no hats) did lose a great deal of heat from their heads. But if you wore a swimsuit, you'd lose heat evenly across exposed body surfaces—and no more than 10% from the head. “We often hear parents say that as long as their kids are wearing a hat, they feel that they’re sufficiently dressed,” says Dr. Vreeman. “Of course they should bundle up for protection from the cold, but they should be equally concerned about gloves and boots as well.”

Myth: Eating at night makes you fat
There's no research to support the belief that eating before bed causes more weight gain. There are benefits of eating meals at consistent times, but only because it helps limit overall intake of daily calories. “The time of day a person eats is not as important for overall weight gain as the amount of calories eaten during the day,” says Jeannie Gazzaniga-Moloo PhD, RD, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. Avoid your favorite go-to comfort foods before bed, she says, but don’t fret if your dinner gets pushed back a few hours.

Myth: You can cure a hangover
Sorry, but there’s no magic bullet for this one. Internet searches reveal seemingly endless options for hangover cures, the authors report, from aspirin and bananas to prickly pear and Vegemite. But no large, well-designed studies have found that anything but time—and drinking water to treat dehydration—can ease the aftermath of too much alcohol consumption.

The 5 Dirtiest Foods

2008-12-16T14:28:00.002-05:00

Eggs: While most eggs aren't going to make anyone sick, experts estimate that more than 2 million germy eggs (as in Salmonella infected) get into circulation each year, sickening 660,000 people each year and killing as many as 300. Um, maybe we should think twice about eating that cookie dough. How to buy cleaner eggs? Make sure the carton says they're pasteurized and never buy a dozen that contains any obvious cracks or leaks.

Peaches: They're pretty, but that's just skin-deep. Health experts warn that peach skins are doused in pesticides before they make it to grocery store to prevent blemishes. On average, a peach can contain as many as nine different pesticides, according to the USDA. This is one fruit you might want to buy organic (which may have blemishes, but won't have pesticides).

Pre-packaged salad mixes: Surprise! "Triple washed" doesn't mean germ-free say experts. Pathogens may still be lurking so be sure to wash your greens before tossing in your salad bowl.

Melons: Get ready to be grossed out. According to the article, "when the FDA sampled domestically grown cantaloupe, it found that 3.5 percent of the melons carried Salmonella and Shigella, the latter a bacteria normally passed person-to-person. Among imported cantaloupe, 7 percent tested positive for both bugs." Ewww. Your best bet: Scrub your melons with a little mild dish soap and warm water before slicing.

Scallions: Blamed for several recent outbreaks of Hepatitis A, and other bugs like the parasite Cryptosporidium, Shigella and Salmonella, scallions present a food safety problem because of the way they grow (in the dirt) and lack of proper washing. While you can't control what happens in restaurant kitchens, you can give them a super-duper washing at home before cooking with.

Other dirty foods in the article include chicken, ground beef and turkey, raw oysters, and cold cuts.

The bottom line: Don't be afraid to eat these foods, just be aware of the precautions you need to take before enjoying them. Most food-borne illnesses are the result of hygiene carelessness somewhere in the food chain. Protect yourself!

Vultures Disguised as Doves

2008-12-07T17:11:00.003-05:00

While at Target this weekend looking for Christmas cards, Brent and I met a very friendly couple. His name, Brett. Her name, Sara. The irony, right?

Brett started to talk to us when he heard me say to Brent, "None of these cards have a religious message." Quickly, we were asked, "What church do you attend?" Being from a city, I was taken aback, but thought it was the typical, friendly Christian way. After this, Brett & Sara become talkative, asking a ton of questions about us.

Little did we know, we were the prey. The hunted. Being poached. Bamboozeled.

Brent mentioned that he was self-employed. Brett said that he & Sara had jobs but were self-employed "on the side" doing "marketing." To which Brett commented that we should "keep in touch."

We walked away feeling dirty. They weren't truly interested in us. They were interested in how we fit into the triangle. Upon more reflection, it is funny how others that I either know or have been approached about pyramid-type jobs are all the same -- chatty, interested, positive -- yet really never saying what they do, but always saying what they do "with all the money."

Double Down

2008-11-30T14:09:00.004-05:00

On the way home from Chicago, Brent & I stopped at

The Horseshoe in Hammond, IN. When all was said and done, we walked away with $41 extra.

Give Thanks!

2008-11-23T13:38:00.007-05:00

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1Thes. 5:16

Only by His wonderful grace can we see from His perspective, rejoice always, and continually give thanks. Only by His life in us can we walk in humility and live together in the victory of His cross. Only by His Spirit in us can we obey His Word and follow His ways. Therefore we can thank Him -- not only for the sunny days and happy moments -- but even more for those things that show us our need and draw us closer to Him. Around this season, we are reminded of how much we have to be thankful!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Some of my Writings

2008-11-16T15:26:00.011-05:00

Wife, Mother, Author . . . Fisherman

Circle of Influence

Serving Soldiers in SW Asia

Q&A with Laura Story

Q&A with Chris Tomlin

My Banana Bread!

2008-11-12T13:50:00.002-05:00

2 cups whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
4 medium to large ripe bananas, cut into chunks
1 egg
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup unsweetened orange juice
Optional:
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees
2. Combine dry ingredients
3. Place bananas in blender & puree until smooth
4. Add bananas & rest of liquid ingredients to flour mixture and blend well
5. Pour into greased loaf pan, muffin tins, etc...
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until knife inserted comes out clean.
7. Cool on wire rack.
8. EAT!!!

Another Half Marathon Completed!!!

2008-11-09T15:05:00.009-05:00

Yeah! I finished this half marathon in 2:11:50, which is 11 minutes QUICKER than my last race! The day was freezing cold and gloomy. The wind was gusting 20 mph. I had the wind at my face for the first half of the race (6.5 miles) and at my back for rest of the way. I was hoping the wind would carry me, but it didn't. The hills were crazy and steep.

GOOP

2008-11-07T10:55:00.003-05:00

I recently ran across Gwyneth Paltrow's website GOOP. If you sign-up for her newsletter, you will get interesting tid-bits on food, fashion, health, travel, etc. Since she is my favorite actress, I am loving it!

Vote=Free Coffee

2008-11-02T14:49:00.006-05:00

On November 4, go to Starbucks and tell them you voted. They'll give you a free cup of coffee!! :)

2008-10-31T12:49:00.000-04:00

4 DAYS AND COUNTING!

November 8: My Next Endeavor

2008-10-26T18:29:00.001-04:00

Preble County Half Marathon

Eaton, OH

Buckwheat & Banana Pancakes

2008-10-23T10:29:00.002-04:00

SERVES: 3 or 4 (makes about a dozen pancakes)
TIME: 15 minutes
**these are vegan

1 1/4 cups soy, rice or almond milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup, plus more for serving
1/2 cup buckwheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup unbleached all-purpose flour or white spelt flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 bananas, thinly sliced

Mix all the wet ingredients together in a small bowl. Mix all the dry ingredients together in a slightly bigger bowl. Add the wet to the dry and stir just enough to combine – be careful not to over-mix (that’s how you get tough pancakes).

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Ladle as many pancakes as possible onto your griddle. Place a few slices of banana on top of each pancake. Cook for about a minute and a half on the first side or until the surface is covered with small bubbles and the underside is nicely browned. Flip and cook for about a minute on the second side. Repeat the process until you run out of batter. Serve stacked high either plain or with syrup of choice.

Why Avoid Prescription Drugs?

2008-10-21T13:15:00.002-04:00

Side effects. That’s why doctors avoid prescription drugs. But let me expand on this. Another reason I and many other nutritionally oriented physicians avoid pharmaceuticals is that while patients often see symptoms as events that need medicine, we see symptoms as messages asking for a change of lifestyle. The vast majority of prescription drugs being taken are prescribed as a result of poor choices.

A few examples:
• Lipitor for high cholesterol vs losing weight, eating nutritious food, and exercising regularly.
• Nexium for reflux esophagitis vs losing the belly and avoiding heavy meals after 6 pm.
• Celebrex for arthritis vs daily stretching exercises, pool workouts, and physical therapy.
• Over a dozen various prescription diabetes drugs to lower blood sugar vs regular vigorous exercise and working with a nutritionist to get the weight off.
• Two dozen medications for borderline high blood pressure vs biofeedback or yoga.
• Antibiotics to “knock out” a cold vs the knowledge that colds are caused by viruses and antibiotics kill only bacteria.

“Oh,” you may say, “I’d love to work with a trainer or meet with a nutritionist or learn stress reduction, but they’re not covered by my insurance. On the other hand, my prescriptions only cost $15 a month.”

With that perspective, what you’re getting is about $15 worth of health care. You’re swallowing pills that most doctors won’t touch themselves. And a key reason we prescribe so many medications (I’m sorry to say) is that the vast majority of the US patient population wants a quick fix without having to take much personal responsibility.

Good health requires lifestyle changes and a few dollars spent out of pocket. I wince whenever my suggestion to meet with a nutritionist or fitness trainer is rejected by patients because their health insurance won’t pay for it. To allow your health insurer to control your health, and ultimately your longevity, is to surrender your very life.

Despite the illusion of safety, most pharmaceuticals haven’t been around long enough for scientists to understand what the chemicals in the pills are actually doing inside you, not to mention their long term effects on your body. But really, most of these pills are simply masking symptoms. For example, we now know for certain that simply lowering your cholesterol numbers doesn’t prevent heart disease, and next time I’ll tell you why most of you don’t need to refill your Lipitor prescription.

A note from the doctor I used to see in Chicago. He is homeopathic and an M.D.

2008-10-12T19:16:00.004-04:00

Brent is currently out of town on business with the tour, iShine. If you have a tween, check to see if the tour is going to be in a city near you. This is a great way for your kids to connect with peers in finding their identity in Christ.

2008-10-11T07:12:00.002-04:00

Advent Conspiracy is an international movement restoring the scandal of Christmas by worshipping Jesus through compassion, not consumption. What a life-changing, heart-turning, life-giving, spirit-driven, God-given idea. It's taking all or the majority of what you would spend on Christmas presents and instead giving it to a cause, a person in need, your church, a charity...I think you get the idea.

The Debates

2008-10-07T14:39:00.003-04:00

I didn't watch too much of the presidential debates. I feel as though neither candidate is really answering the questions they are given. Instead, they are using their answer time as a prop to say, "this is how I will do it better than . . ." I want to hear clear answers. I want to know clear agendas. I'm not getting this.

McCain attacks Obama.

Obama has an over confident air.

I don't think either is qualified to run the country.

What I have to, moment-by-moment, remind myself is this:

My future does not rest in the hands of Obama or McCain but in Jesus Christ.

Who won?

2008-10-03T11:46:00.001-04:00

In my opinion, neither. Gosh...did anyone find this hard to watch? I felt as though I was viewing a scary movie -- my hands were covering my eyes. "Did he really say that?" "Did she really say that?"

2008-10-02T12:38:00.002-04:00

Running Hope is a non-profit organization that makes a difference in the lives of orphans around the globe through walking and running events with Team Hope. Their mission is to generate awareness and resources to support Christian ministries who are working hard to make a difference in the lives of the 143,000,000 orphans around the world!

Learn more.

Chocolate -- Good for You?

2008-09-30T16:14:00.003-04:00

Over the centuries, chocolate has come full circle. Most of the modern world currently views chocolate as a tasty but quite unhealthy indulgence meant for only occasional consumption. But health-conscious consumers are now learning that dark chocolate, devoid of some of the unhealthful ingredients usually paired with it in confectionary products, possesses some impressive health properties.

Scientists are rediscovering what ancient Mesoamericans knew centuries ago: chocolate can be very good for you. It may have been cultivated for over two thousand years, but in the last five years science has finally begun to discover the actual health benefits of cocoa. Research is just beginning and is especially promising in the area of phytonutrients, polyphenols, and flavonoids.
However, not all chocolate is created equal. Most candy bars and chocolate foods commonly found in grocery stores are not what you’re looking for. These are typically high in refined (white) sugar, milk fats, and hydrogenated oils—ingredients that replace the truly healthful nutrients found in cocoa.

It’s important to remember that what makes chocolate healthy is the chocolate itself—that is, the pure cocoa that comes from the bean of the cacao plant. Studies confirm that the chocolate products with the highest levels of polyphenols and procyanidins should contain at least 70 percent pure cocoa powder. What this means is that, while it’s not necessarily bad to have “milk” chocolate, which contains a higher percentage of cream or milk, the more pure cocoa the chocolate contains, the more beneficial it will be. Bitter is better.
Also, many chocolate confections are processed using a procedure known as “Dutching,” which neutralizes the chocolate’s acidic flavor and modifies its color by adding alkali-potash to the cocoa nibs before roasting. However, this alkalinization process also removes most of the chocolate’s natural polyphenols. Another process commonly used by confectioners that can damage cocoa’s healthy nutrients is roasting: when chocolate is prepared above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, its antioxidant compounds are destroyed.

So when looking for a healthy chocolate product, look for a dark chocolate product with the following properties:
--Has not been alkalized.
--Has been dried and cool-pressed rather than roasted.
--Consists of at least 70 percent pure cocoa.
--Contains cocoa butter instead of milk fats or hydrogenated oils.
--Contains natural, low-glycemic sweeteners—such as raw cane—rather than refined sugar.

Go here http://mydrchocolate.soundconcepts.com/ for more information.

Life Reminders

2008-09-25T11:42:00.003-04:00

1. Pray
2. Go to bed on time.
3. Get up on time so you can start the day unrushed.
4. Say No to projects that won't fit into your time schedule or that will compromise your mental health.
5. Delegate tasks to capable others.
6. Simplify and unclutter your life.
7. Less is more. (Although one is often not enough, two are often too many.)
8. Allow extra time to do things and to get to places.
9. Pace yourself. Spread out big changes and difficult projects over time; don't lump the hard things all together.
10. Take one day at a time.
11. Separate worries from concerns. If a situation is a concern, find out what God would have you do and let go of the anxiety. If you can't do anything about a situation, forget it.
12. Live within your budget; don't use credit cards for ordinary purchases.
13. Have backups; an extra car key in your wallet, an extra house key buried in the garden, extra stamps, etc.
14. K.M.S. (Keep Mouth Shut). This single piece of advice can prevent an enormous amount of trouble.
15. Do something for the Kid in You every day.
16. Carry a Bible with you to read while waiting in line.
17. Get enough rest.
18. Eat right.
19. Get organized so everything has its place.
20. Listen to a tape while driving that can help improve your quality of life.
21. Write down thoughts and inspirations.
22. Every day, find time to be alone.
23. Having problems? Talk to God on the spot. Try to nip small problems in the bud. Don't wait until it's time to go to bed to try and pray.
24. Make friends with Godly people.
25. Keep a folder of favorite scriptures on hand.
26. Remember that the shortest bridge between despair and hope is often a good 'Thank you Jesus.'
27. Laugh.
28. Laugh some more!
29. Take your work seriously, but not yourself at all.
30. Develop a forgiving attitude (most people are doing the best they can).
31. Be kind to unkind people (they probably need it the most).
32. Sit on your ego.
33. Talk less; listen more.
34. Slow down.
35. Remind yourself that you are not the general manager of the universe.
36. Every night before bed, think of one thing you're grateful for that you've never been grateful for before. GOD HAS A WAY OF TURNING THINGS AROUND FOR YOU.

Half Marathon Finish Line Pics

2008-09-24T12:03:00.002-04:00

USAF Half Marathon!!

2008-09-21T07:25:00.010-04:00

Waiting to Run!

I did it! I ran it! I can check this event off my list as a goal to achieve. The weather at 8:30 a.m. was pleasant, but warmer than I was anticipating. My adrenaline was pumping . . . which ended up being my downfall. My friend & I clocked ourselves at the 3 mile mark at 26 minutes. Too fast. I should've slowed down due to -- the sun, heat, running on a black tarmac (which heats things even more) -- recipes for exhaustion. I ate my sports beans at mile 4.1 At mile 5, I felt great. At mile 8, I felt slow. At mile 11, my body felt like it was shutting down. This is hard to explain and I've never felt this before. But, I kept putting one foot in front of the other . . . shuffling maybe? When I saw Brent at mile 12.5, I started to cry. All my body was telling me was, "Stop. Sit down." But, I did it. I ran. My goal was first to finish. My goal was second to finish it in less than 2:30.

Feeling strong at mile 5!

Guttin' it out at mile 8!

Struggling at mile 12.

Here's the result:
Kara Gibbs, 34, Cedarville, OH 2:22:41 pace: 10:53

Running to the finish! I actually sprinted!

2008-09-18T11:27:00.002-04:00

Go here to learn more!

It's the Final Countdown . . .

2008-09-16T13:58:00.003-04:00

I'm sitting here getting a little nervous as I ponder running the half marathon on Saturday. I can't believe it is almost here!! I'm in taper mode, which basically is a time that you don't exert too much energy running or cross-training. I feel lazy, but I know it's best.

The start of the half has an elevation jump, an uphill, that has me a bit nervous. I need to take it easy as to not max out my energy.

But, the course looks great and my nerves are balanced by excitement!

4 MORE DAYS!

South Haven Day 4: Fishing the Black River

2008-09-06T14:27:00.007-04:00

South Haven Day 3: Rainy Excursions-Grand Haven & Holland

2008-09-05T10:37:00.011-04:00

South Haven Day 2: RNC

2008-09-04T07:46:00.002-04:00

If Fred Thompson, Mitt Romney, and Mike Huckaby had been this dynamic, strong, and alive when they were campaigning . . . the face of the RNC would be dramatically different today. With that said, Palin did a fantastic job. I especially loved it when she had her daughter's boy friend & her sweet baby on stage with her at the end. You go girl!

South Haven Day 2: Canoeing, Smoked Fish, and Pizza

2008-09-03T19:00:00.007-04:00

South Haven Day 1: The Beach

2008-09-02T16:15:00.006-04:00

Sad State of Affairs

2008-08-29T13:09:00.003-04:00

Don Miller Prays at the DNC

2008-08-26T13:42:00.002-04:00

Don Miller's benediction at the DNC. How eloquent! Amen!

View it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b79m3fJfmuA

Read it:
"Father God,
This week, as the world looks on, help the leaders in this room create a civil dialogue about our future.
We need you, God, as individuals and also as a nation.
We need you to protect us from our enemies, but also from ourselves, because we are easily tempted toward apathy.
Give us a passion to advance opportunities for the least of these, for widows and orphans, for single moms and children whose fathers have left.
Give us the eyes to see them, and the ears to hear them, and hands willing to serve them.
Help us serve people, not just causes. And stand up to specific injustices rather than vague notions.
Give those in this room who have power, along with those who will meet next week, the courage to work together to finally provide health care to those who don’t have any, and a living wage so families can thrive rather than struggle.
Hep us figure out how to pay teachers what they deserve and give children an equal opportunity to get a college education.
Help us figure out the balance between economic opportunity and corporate gluttony.
We have tried to solve these problems ourselves but they are still there. We need your help.
Father, will you restore our moral standing in the world.
A lot of people don’t like us but that’s because they don’t know the heart of the average American.
Will you give us favor and forgiveness, along with our allies around the world.
Help us be an example of humility and strength once again.
Lastly, father, unify us.
Even in our diversity help us see how much we have in common.
And unify us not just in our ideas and in our sentiments—but in our actions, as we look around and figure out something we can do to help create an America even greater than the one we have come to cherish.
God we know that you are good.
Thank you for blessing us in so many ways as Americans.
I make these requests in the name of your son, Jesus, who gave his own life against the forces of injustice.
Let Him be our example.
Amen."

1 Year Wedding Anniversary

2008-08-25T11:14:00.004-04:00

There once was a girl

There once was a guy

She thought him loud

He thought her shy

He met her in passing

She saw him too

What the two of them felt

Not even they knew

Years would go by

And he’d cross her mind

And he’d think of her

But left those behind

But one special day

God said, “Now is good”

The two of them spoke

As if always they would

She was delightful

And he made her smile

The two of them thought

Good things all the while

His love was in business

Hers for the writ

They had much in common

Good humor, quick wit

He loved her smarts

Her ways all around

He found her beauty

Enchanting and sound

She loved his blue eyes

And his silliness too

His godliness was something

She right away knew

So the two of them laughed

And the two of them prayed

And the two of them cherished

All of their days

So it came to be known

All over town

That the guy and the girl

Would forever be bound

And the two of them knew

From the moment they met

That no other would do

So the guy and girl wed.

Democratic National Convention

2008-08-24T18:43:00.004-04:00

Don Miller will be delivering the closing prayer at the Democratic National Convention Monday night in Denver. After the key-note address, he's been asked to close the evening with a short benediction.

He'll be posting the prayer on his site because it may not be televised.

Tennis Anyone?

2008-08-17T17:05:00.006-04:00

For part of my birthday gift, Brent took me to a tennis match: the ATP Masters Series. We had so much fun! We both played on our high school tennis teams, and can still hit a ball around today! Here are some pics of the day:

METROMINT

2008-08-15T12:15:00.003-04:00

A year ago, in the voyage to find the perfect bottle of water, Brent & I stumbled upon Metromint. Initially, the only flavor they sold was mint. But, they have since expanded their flavors.

What I love about this water is that is purified using reverse osmosis & has no sugar and no sweeteners of any kind. Now, that's my kind of drink!

In our area, it's actually sold at Kroger! Only the mint flavor is sold there. The other flavors can be found at Whole Foods.

Trail Running

2008-08-13T10:55:00.007-04:00

For the first time, ever, I went on a trail run this morning. My friend that I am running / training with for the half marathon suggested that we run a trail located at the Clifton Gorge. First, I'm so thankful that I live close to hiking trails, state parks, camp grounds, etc. This location is only 5 minutes away! Second, this is a gorgeous way to get a great run in for the day. Third, due to the rocks and tree roots located all along the trail, we decided that we wouldn't run the trails while training because we could easily twist an ankle!!

2008-09 Theme

2008-08-06T13:41:00.003-04:00

Because I work in the marketing department at Cedarville, we were asked to help in coming up with a theme for the new school year -- one that also reflected and incorporated our university mission statement. Being athletic, I contributed two theme ideas: For the Long Run (using running as a preparation in the Christian life) and For the Long Journey (using hiking/backpacking). AS YOU CAN SEE, my Journey idea was the one chosen.

How cool is that?

Tips for Saving Gas

2008-07-31T12:18:00.002-04:00

Tips for getting the most out of each gallon...

Use the cruise, clean the car

Hypermile your way to better mpg: Pulse-and-glide driving is how those ultra-efficient hypermilers get great mileage, even without a hybrid car.

Carpool at least once a week

Drive slower: Driving just 10 miles slower can reduce fuel consumption by 20 percent. And no, you won't burn more gas because it takes a tiny bit longer to get to your destination.

Don't sit idle: When you let your car idle, you might as well light a dollar bill on fire and toss it out the window. It's been proven that stopping and restarting a car uses the same gas as leaving a car idling for 6 seconds with the air conditioner on. Today's fuel-injected cars don't need to warm up in cold weather either.

Reduce air drag: The Rocky Mountain Institute estimates you can save 15 to 30 gallons of gas per year if you take off a roof rack just half the time. Besides, you only need it for skis when there's actually snow on the ground.

Ditch the drive-thru: One test in Toronto found that you can get a fast-food breakfast faster and burn less gas in your car if you park and go into the restaurant. Considering how much idling cars do in drive-thru lanes, this isn't surprising. It's unhealthy anyway!

Think big, and light: Some of EcoGeek's gas-saving tips are government-based (like intelligent traffic lights and minimum fuel economy; feel free to suggest these to your local and federal representatives!). But everyone can carry less junk in the trunk.

My Weekend

2008-07-28T12:03:00.007-04:00

Brent & I went into this next rental with both sledge hammers blazin'!! I wanted to post some pictures of the before and after of our demolition.

New Seed of Hope

2008-07-22T13:07:00.002-04:00

This an e-mail update from someone Brent knows. I know it's lenghty, but read on . . .

As you read through this update keep in mind that the seeds of this work were planted about two years ago but the lion's share of the work and energy has been accomplished in the past year, ALL through the real arms, feet and hands of a tiny little Nairobi church NSOH helped start (and financially support) last October.

Pastor Alphonse Kabui has been our lead man from the very beginning. He serves bravely, humbly, and under serious duress without fail and without complaint, day after day. Everything you will read about what has been done, what is being done, and what this church aspires to do, is presently embodied in the hands of roughly 30 Christians (a tiny church indeed).

Most of the members are very young, unemployed but eager to believe God for great things. These are the true laborers in the vineyard that supporters of NSOH in America help encourage, support, inspire, pray for, etc. This little church, aptly named, Restoration and Rescue Center (RCC), takes its very reason for being from the heart of Isaiah 58:6-12.

Isaiah 58:12 has become a sort of metaphor for the Kenya work, led by the Restoration and Rescue Center. The biblical text says, "And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in."

This important work being done by God, using the Restoration and Rescue Center is a real world example of the Lord honoring his promises in his word based on Isaiah 58.We've decided to start calling our financial investers and supporters as 58/12 partners, after Isa 58:12. Though some of you currently give more than $58 dollars every month to NSOH, if you currently don't we'd ask you to prayerfully consider becoming a 58/12 partner. A $58 dollar monthly commitment for 12 months. 58/12. That comes to right at $700 a year support. That might not seem like a lot of money to us - $58 a month - but it's enough to provide food and basic necessities for two more HIV/AIDS orphans in Kibera.

If you'd like to start supporting NSOH financially with a monthly donation please send it to:
New Seed of Hope
2000 Mallory Ln.
Ste 130-312
Franklin, TN 37067

Checks payable to:
New Seed of Hope
Notate "58/12" on the memo line

Now for the exciting part. What has God been doing though New Seed of Hope in the past several months in Kenya? What if God took the vision and effort of these young, poor, thirty Christians and magnified it times 100? Times a 1,000?

New Seed of Hope partners with a church - RESTORATION and RESCUE CENTER (RCC) – to serve the needs of HIV/AIDS orphans and at-risk individuals in the Kibera slum in Nairobi , Kenya .

1. Where is the project based?Nairobi, Kenya – in the Kibera slum. About one million people live in Kibera (roughly contained in one square mile).
2. Who is the target audience?Children, youth and women; many are HIV/AIDS positive or at high risk.
3. Who is the lead Pastor of RCC?Alphonse Kabui. Alphonse has been on staff with NSOH full-time since January 2006.
4. Who is the project Managing Director?Johnson Migwi. He is presently working full-time as a volunteer.
5. What is the purpose of this program?To bring hope to the destitute, especially those living in the slums, by providing a means for them to access education, food, healthcare and creating business opportunities.
6. What is the model behind the program?It is intended to eventually be a self-supporting, self-sustaining program. NSOH is developing a micro-enterprise model around our work so that all projects and programs can be self-supporting as soon as possible.
7. What are some challenges Kibera slum-dwellers face?Abject poverty, with limited or no access to basic facilities, and no employment opportunities, which is evidenced by the community’s poor health, high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, inadequate shelter, poor infrastructure, drug abuse, school dropouts, lack of business growth and generally poor living conditions. One million people live in roughly one square mile.
8. What are the programs core objectives?
a. Provide access to quality Early Childhood Development/ Education (ECD/E) for orphans and vulnerable children in Kibera slums.
b. To improve the nutritional status and access to basic health care to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) and People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHAS) and their families.
c. To strengthen the capacity of caregivers with skills and knowledge to effectively care for the OVC and PLWHAS; and,
d. To provide vocational and biblical skills and knowledge to vulnerable girls who are school drop outs and help them start income generating activities to support themselves and their siblings.
9. What is currently up and running?We have established a kindergarten for orphans and vulnerable children where we are offering quality Early Childhood Development/Education and at the same time carrying out a feeding program. We currently have 20 orphans and vulnerable children aged 3 to 4 years some of them being children of HIV/AIDS parents who are not able to earn a living due to sickness and the stigma associated with the virus.
10. What kind of human resources are required to accomplish the program goals and objectives?We have employed 2 qualified and experienced teachers and a social worker who is a university graduate in community development.
We have recruited 4 vulnerable teenagers and youths who are school drop outs and have engaged them in income generating projects.

We are also mobilizing other local institutions such as churches and community structures so as to have a great impact in the society.

What are the biggest goals that RCC has for the next twelve months, and the accompany budget required?

PROJECT 1: One year support for 60 orphans and vulnerable children - $32,903 USD. This includes providing food, uniforms, books, supplies, teachers, electricity, water and healthcare.

PROJECT 2: Establishing a flour (posho) mill - $5,758 USD. This is an income generating project that will help the project become self-sustaining.

PROJECT 3: Drilling a borehole to provide safe, clean drinking water - $36,613 USD.

Total funds needed for these three projects: $75,274 USD.

Again, my deepest thanks for all of you. Your support, words of encouragement, and financial investment of NSOH means more than I can express, but more importantly, honors the Lord and evidences your love for him as well.

Be blessed today and keep the work (especially pastor Alphonse Kabui) in your prayers.

Receiving Yourself in the Fires of Sorrow

2008-07-16T14:13:00.002-04:00

. . . what shall I say? ’Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour. ’Father, glorify Your name’ —John 12:27-28

As a saint of God, my attitude toward sorrow and difficulty should not be to ask that they be prevented, but to ask that God protect me so that I may remain what He created me to be, in spite of all my fires of sorrow.

Our Lord received Himself, accepting His position and realizing His purpose, in the midst of the fire of sorrow. He was saved not from the hour, but out of the hour.

We say that there ought to be no sorrow, but there is sorrow, and we have to accept and receive ourselves in its fires. If we try to evade sorrow, refusing to deal with it, we are foolish. Sorrow is one of the biggest facts in life, and there is no use in saying it should not be. Sin, sorrow, and suffering are, and it is not for us to say that God has made a mistake in allowing them.

Sorrow removes a great deal of a person’s shallowness, but it does not always make that person better. Suffering either gives me to myself or it destroys me. You cannot find or receive yourself through success, because you lose your head over pride. And you cannot receive yourself through the monotony of your daily life, because you give in to complaining. The only way to find yourself is in the fires of sorrow.

Why it should be this way is immaterial. The fact is that it is true in the Scriptures and in human experience. You can always recognize who has been through the fires of sorrow and received himself, and you know that you can go to him in your moment of trouble and find that he has plenty of time for you. But if a person has not been through the fires of sorrow, he is apt to be contemptuous, having no respect or time for you, only turning you away.

If you will receive yourself in the fires of sorrow, God will make you nourishment for other people.

*I found this in my e-mail files sent by me to me.

My Blog Rating

2008-07-14T12:44:00.002-04:00

Our Labor of Love

2008-07-11T10:02:00.021-04:00

As most of you know, Brent & I bought a house, remodeled it, and decided to rent it. Our renter moves in this Saturday!!

When we looked at the house, it was in really great condition. But, we felt that the layout was a little awkward. We demolitioned two walls (Brent, Kirsten, Lori, and myself!!) & had Brentwood Builders frame new ones. The original bedroom was literally the width of a queen bed & had a small closet. We expanded the bedroom & put in a walk-in closet. (I added an organizer for more hanging capacity.) Expanding the bedroom meant moving the front door over. We were able to expose original hardwood floors for the entryway -- hardwood floors that Brent sanded and stained himself. There was also an odd wall seperating the living room & the something room! We decided that one huge room would suffice. We had new carpet installed, too. The kitchen got a fresh coat of sage green and we painted the paneling white. We also did some great landscaping in the front and around the sides of the house. Painters were Brent, Sheron, and myself. Landscapers were Brent, Sheron, and myself. Thanks to Lew for helping with the washer/dryer, new storm door, and various tasks.

We are excited at how it turned out!!

Before:

After:

Woman on the Run

2008-07-05T19:52:00.004-04:00

As promised, here is my latest update.

This morning I ran 6.5 miles.

I did it. What more needs to be said?

I can't believe my legs never stopped moving.

I completed it in 1 hour and 10 minutes.

I feel great.