Yesterday I allowed S to spend the night at a friends house. She has an almost 16 yo daughter and the girls seem to have hit it off. Things went great until about 7:30 when she called me in hysterics. The baby was choking!!! The baby was BLUE!!! They had already called 911 and the baby was in the ambulance. The baby is 2.5 or so. She wanted me to pray. Of course I had started doing that as soon as I heard her voice. She calmed very quickly and wanted to stay and be there for her friend.
About 2 hours later she called back. The baby didn't make it. It seems mom was giving him a children's Motrin and some how he got choked. Please keep this family in your prayers. I can't imagine the pain they are in.
Please keep S in prayer to as she deals with this. I know she was there for a purpose, but my mommy heart wishes she wasn't.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Feb.26 Bible Verse
Romans 10:8-10 (New King James Version)
8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”(that is, the word of faith which we preach): 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
8 But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”(that is, the word of faith which we preach): 9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Feb 25th Bible Verse
John 15:2 (New King James Version)
2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
2 Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Adoption day Sunrise....
When your day starts with a sunrise like this how can the day be anything but awesome!
As I went out to do chores I saw the peacock in the tree. I went back for the camera. I took some of him, then on to the sunrise
I had to interrupt milking to finish off with these.
Done Deal!
Every thing went off without a hitch! We did have to wait and wait for AR to call they were ready. Once we got the judge and the "court" on the line it was a 5 minute call. I think S felt it was almost anti-climatic. She had worried and worried for this? :) Here are some pictures of today and of the day we picked her up. Yes, the now and then really are the same child.
I call this picture my wildchild picture. It so shows the enter turmoil within her. Yes, she knows I call her my wild child in this picture and a few more.
Fast fwd 6 months and 15 days to today. This was while we were waiting on the call from AR.
Finished! 
Today's the day!
We will be leaving for town about 7:30. WAY to early! It should be interesting to see how this works. We will be doing this through a conference call to AR. The Judge and S's lawyer are there and ours will be here. I really do like her lawyer. She called her last night to chat and to chat with us. That is above and beyond. She also picks all the kids up that are her "kids" each week and takes them to church. We need more lawyers like this!
As of last night S was yo-yoing between being excited and scared it wouldn't really happen. S has had some behaviour issues the last few days, nothing bad, just more than "normal". Sunday morning after yet again pushing the limit. I looked at her and said, "It really doesn't matter how big a butt you are between now and Tue. We ARE adopting you!" She wanted to question it, I didn't have time. That night she came to me to talk and said she didn't know why she had been acting the way she had. She was sorry. That she was acting this way because she was scared about the adoption. She just can't believe it is going to happen. I agreed with all she said and told her she was "normal". That all her actions were no more than expected. That she could do them and I would give the consequences to go with them. The boundaries are tight. She agreed and was glad. I explained to her that it is her last ditch effort to prove all those people right that said she was unlovable. She started crying and talking about how many people had told her that. We talked about them and truth and just cuddled on the couch a while. I told her God willing and the creek didn't rise we would be finalizing on Tue. Then I added I really hoped the creek rose! She laughed and agreed since we need rain so bad!
I so admire her. Can you imagine at 16 being willing to move to a new state with strange people at the chance of a better life? Not many any age would be willing to do it, and embrace it with love and determination like she has. She is very brave!
Today if you think of it keep us in prayer that all goes without a hitch. I don't expect problems. I know this was God ordained from the start. Satan may try to mess it up, but he has no authority.
I'm not sure what we will do after the adoption is final. I need to make a Wal-mart run. We may stick around town for lunch. Then home to do school and on with life.
All have a blessed day!
As of last night S was yo-yoing between being excited and scared it wouldn't really happen. S has had some behaviour issues the last few days, nothing bad, just more than "normal". Sunday morning after yet again pushing the limit. I looked at her and said, "It really doesn't matter how big a butt you are between now and Tue. We ARE adopting you!" She wanted to question it, I didn't have time. That night she came to me to talk and said she didn't know why she had been acting the way she had. She was sorry. That she was acting this way because she was scared about the adoption. She just can't believe it is going to happen. I agreed with all she said and told her she was "normal". That all her actions were no more than expected. That she could do them and I would give the consequences to go with them. The boundaries are tight. She agreed and was glad. I explained to her that it is her last ditch effort to prove all those people right that said she was unlovable. She started crying and talking about how many people had told her that. We talked about them and truth and just cuddled on the couch a while. I told her God willing and the creek didn't rise we would be finalizing on Tue. Then I added I really hoped the creek rose! She laughed and agreed since we need rain so bad!
I so admire her. Can you imagine at 16 being willing to move to a new state with strange people at the chance of a better life? Not many any age would be willing to do it, and embrace it with love and determination like she has. She is very brave!
Today if you think of it keep us in prayer that all goes without a hitch. I don't expect problems. I know this was God ordained from the start. Satan may try to mess it up, but he has no authority.
I'm not sure what we will do after the adoption is final. I need to make a Wal-mart run. We may stick around town for lunch. Then home to do school and on with life.
All have a blessed day!
2-24 Bible Verse
James 1:6-7 (New King James Version)
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday Feb: 23
Luke 10:19-20 (New King James Version)
19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Bible Verse 2-19
2 Corinthians 1:18-20 (The Message)
17-19Are you now going to accuse me of being flip with my promises because it didn't work out? Do you think I talk out of both sides of my mouth—a glib yes one moment, a glib no the next? Well, you're wrong. I try to be as true to my word as God is to his. Our word to you wasn't a careless yes canceled by an indifferent no. How could it be? When Silas and Timothy and I proclaimed the Son of God among you, did you pick up on any yes-and-no, on-again, off-again waffling? Wasn't it a clean, strong Yes?
20-22Whatever God has promised gets stamped with the Yes of Jesus. In him, this is what we preach and pray, the great Amen, God's Yes and our Yes together, gloriously evident. God affirms us, making us a sure thing in Christ, putting his Yes within us. By his Spirit he has stamped us with his eternal pledge—a sure beginning of what he is destined to complete.
And in case you don't like the Message:
2 Corinthians 1:18-20 (New King James Version)
18 But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. 20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
17-19Are you now going to accuse me of being flip with my promises because it didn't work out? Do you think I talk out of both sides of my mouth—a glib yes one moment, a glib no the next? Well, you're wrong. I try to be as true to my word as God is to his. Our word to you wasn't a careless yes canceled by an indifferent no. How could it be? When Silas and Timothy and I proclaimed the Son of God among you, did you pick up on any yes-and-no, on-again, off-again waffling? Wasn't it a clean, strong Yes?
20-22Whatever God has promised gets stamped with the Yes of Jesus. In him, this is what we preach and pray, the great Amen, God's Yes and our Yes together, gloriously evident. God affirms us, making us a sure thing in Christ, putting his Yes within us. By his Spirit he has stamped us with his eternal pledge—a sure beginning of what he is destined to complete.
And in case you don't like the Message:
2 Corinthians 1:18-20 (New King James Version)
18 But as God is faithful, our word to you was not Yes and No. 19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us—by me, Silvanus, and Timothy—was not Yes and No, but in Him was Yes. 20 For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Bible Verse 2-18
Matthew 19:25-26 (English Standard Version)
25When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26But Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
25When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, "Who then can be saved?" 26But Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Bible Verse 2-17
Ephesians 3:20-21 (New King James Version)
20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.
One Week and Counting....
We are one week from finalizing on S's adoption. Time has flown. She is excited. She is counting the days. She and I have both had a terrible round of the flu. We have tried to find out who could homestead their bed more. I think I may have won. Last night we were homesteading the couch and rocker and she started sharing what she had been thinking as she had laid in bed feeling yuck. I wish I had felt better to talk more but she said she had been just seeing snap shots of her life and all the dumb things she had been involved in. She looks at it now and is amazed at how stupid some of it was. I ask her what the biggest change was and she blew me away with her answer. Being aware and afraid of the big bad world, she said before she had no clue and thought she could handle it all by herself, now she sees it differently I laughed and told her I remember a little girl assuring me she was very responsible, more so than the other kids she knows. She snorted and said she didn't have a clue and she wasn't responsible. I wish I had felt more human to really discuss it all. As it was we did talk about where her “parents” were while she was making all these bad choices. It didn't matter if we were talking bio or fosters, where were they? She said “they weren't there.”
I do have to say that as crazy as it sounds adopting a 16 year old, now 17 yo has been a much easier journey than the three littles. She has such a willing spirit to grow. She is working hard on school, will finish another years worth at the end of March. She is learning to cook. I am feeling comfortable enough to allow her to do stuff without me watching to close. She hasn't tried to put ½ cup of salt in the cream of wheat in a while, instead of ½ teaspoon.
She talks often about how amazing her life is. How happy she is. In lots of ways she isn't 17 yet, but she is much closer than she was 6 months ago! We will start drivers ed after we get the name change and paper work on the adoption. I have already given her the book to start studying. I see this child that is and the adult that is to come on a daily bases right now. She is both! The adult is being refined and changed daily in expectations. She is the one that is setting and changing her expectations. We talked last week about her being afraid as she sees and wants some of the good from her bio mom but is afraid to take hold of it because so much of bio isn't good. We talked about taking the good from all the people she knows and making them into her, not bio not me not friends she looks up to, but into a new creation that is totally S.
Dad said something the other night about calling her S was now second nature. He ask her if she though of herself as S. If when she heard her name called it registered or not. She snapped her fingers and said like that. :) I have allowed her to write her church that she got Baptized in the weekend we got her. I had to chuckle as I pointed out she raved about her new life and how wonderful it was, about her new name, but no where in there did she tell them the name they knew her by. She was like, “Oh!” and added a PS at the top to let them know she use to be J. :) She really has attached to her new name.
I do have to say that as crazy as it sounds adopting a 16 year old, now 17 yo has been a much easier journey than the three littles. She has such a willing spirit to grow. She is working hard on school, will finish another years worth at the end of March. She is learning to cook. I am feeling comfortable enough to allow her to do stuff without me watching to close. She hasn't tried to put ½ cup of salt in the cream of wheat in a while, instead of ½ teaspoon.
She talks often about how amazing her life is. How happy she is. In lots of ways she isn't 17 yet, but she is much closer than she was 6 months ago! We will start drivers ed after we get the name change and paper work on the adoption. I have already given her the book to start studying. I see this child that is and the adult that is to come on a daily bases right now. She is both! The adult is being refined and changed daily in expectations. She is the one that is setting and changing her expectations. We talked last week about her being afraid as she sees and wants some of the good from her bio mom but is afraid to take hold of it because so much of bio isn't good. We talked about taking the good from all the people she knows and making them into her, not bio not me not friends she looks up to, but into a new creation that is totally S.
Dad said something the other night about calling her S was now second nature. He ask her if she though of herself as S. If when she heard her name called it registered or not. She snapped her fingers and said like that. :) I have allowed her to write her church that she got Baptized in the weekend we got her. I had to chuckle as I pointed out she raved about her new life and how wonderful it was, about her new name, but no where in there did she tell them the name they knew her by. She was like, “Oh!” and added a PS at the top to let them know she use to be J. :) She really has attached to her new name.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Today's Bible Verse
Mark 16:16-18 (New King James Version)
16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
Friday, February 13, 2009
Bible Verse
I copied a little more as a preface to this Bible Verse off the site I was on:
I confess that the righteous are bold as lines - so I possess lion hearted boldness in spiritual warfare against the devil.
But the Goldy are bold as lions! Prov. 28-1
I confess that the righteous are bold as lines - so I possess lion hearted boldness in spiritual warfare against the devil.
But the Goldy are bold as lions! Prov. 28-1
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Being A Potter
Last night as my 17 yo and I dealt with some of her issues God showed me a vision. He showed me that she is a lump of clay, given to us by Him. Yes, she has had some work started, but for the most part for 17 years all that happened was she was kept alive.
As I talked to her God gave me these words. You are a lump of clay that God gave us. Not even a perfect clean lump, but a lump that has been abused by the world, that has stuff sticking out that isn't from God. We are to be God's hands as we mold this lump of clay into a BEAUTIFUL vessel for God. We are to work the stuff that isn't of God out. God's desire is for us as her parents to mold her and form her per His directions into His vessel. A Vessel that will be pure not only for God, but for her life mate. A man that God is making pure for her just as He is making her pure for him.
8Yet, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our Potter, and we all are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8 (Amplified Bible)
As I spoke these words I wish you could have saw the pain and hurt and amazement on her face. She has never saw a potters wheel. I plan on finding some one that is throwing something to allow her to watch, maybe even get her hands dirty so she can better picture what God is doing as we spin her round and round pulling out the yuck, some of which is very painful.
As I talked to her God gave me these words. You are a lump of clay that God gave us. Not even a perfect clean lump, but a lump that has been abused by the world, that has stuff sticking out that isn't from God. We are to be God's hands as we mold this lump of clay into a BEAUTIFUL vessel for God. We are to work the stuff that isn't of God out. God's desire is for us as her parents to mold her and form her per His directions into His vessel. A Vessel that will be pure not only for God, but for her life mate. A man that God is making pure for her just as He is making her pure for him.
8Yet, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our Potter, and we all are the work of Your hand. Isaiah 64:8 (Amplified Bible)
As I spoke these words I wish you could have saw the pain and hurt and amazement on her face. She has never saw a potters wheel. I plan on finding some one that is throwing something to allow her to watch, maybe even get her hands dirty so she can better picture what God is doing as we spin her round and round pulling out the yuck, some of which is very painful.
Matthew 16:18-20
18And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." 20Then he warned his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Bible Verse
I am going to start studying one or two Bible Verses a day. I thought I would post them here for other to ponder on. Please add your thoughts on them. I copied and pasted a lot of Bible verses from a web site I was on. I made 3x5 index cards of them. Each day I plan on pulling out one from my zip lock and thinking on it all day. I wish I could say I would memorize it, but I seriously doubt that. :)
Here is what came out of the bag today:
John 16:23-24
23"In that day you will not question Me about anything Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.
24"Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.
Please feel free to expand on this and give your thoughts and what this means today, in your life in our world.
Here is what came out of the bag today:
John 16:23-24
23"In that day you will not question Me about anything Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.
24"Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.
Please feel free to expand on this and give your thoughts and what this means today, in your life in our world.
Storm!
Last night as the storm rolled in I had a blast taking pictures. I really can't decide which ones I like best. This isn't all of them, but a few. Can you tell I love storms?
This picture is looking south as the clouds cover the sky.
Looking North, see the difference in the color of the clouds? The pink/red/brown is clouds filled with dirt.
Back to my love of windmills. I love the way you can see how fast this one is spinning.
More of the awesome clouds and wind coming our way.
This picture is looking south as the clouds cover the sky.
Looking North, see the difference in the color of the clouds? The pink/red/brown is clouds filled with dirt.
Back to my love of windmills. I love the way you can see how fast this one is spinning.
More of the awesome clouds and wind coming our way.
We were blessed with no damage. Just some awesome pictures of God's power as He rolled the storm over us.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
What I learned today....
It all started so simply. S came home from her trip with some issues. Both DH and I noticed before she even spoke her face was puff and she had a sullen look. She slept all the way home. She wanted to sleep more. The other two talked about all the sweets they ate and how much more S ate. They did have water once in a while. Seems S had sweet tea or soda. She said she did drink water at night. I guess a little water is better than none.
Yesterday she didn't finish her school work until after 6 PM! She flat couldn't stay focused! Lots of sullen looks and attitude went along with me trying to redirect her. She is usually finished with school and chores by 2-3 pm. So this wasn't “normal”.
This morning DH was home late so when he came into the room he greeted S with, “I see my little girl is still missing. I wish she would come home.” This led to a talk about attitudes, choices and how the quantity of junk, mainly sugar had effected her. She tried telling us it wasn't the sugar. She didn't know what it was, but “It wasn't the sugar.”
We agreed it may not be the sugar. We gave examples of foods or things that others she knows can't have. Two friends have children that can't have some of the red dyes. One child gets violent while the other swings from the ceiling. Then we talked about how I can't do very much sugar and Dr. Pepper is a huge NO NO for me. She has never saw me drink a DP, yet I love them. MJ can't listen to music with headphones. It overwhelms his system and his ears/brain shut down. I ask her if she knew what would happen to one of my on line friends if she had eaten all the junk S ate this weekend. She had no clue. I bluntly and truthfully told her she would be dead today.
She did finally admit she doesn't feel good inside right now. That was a big admission. She is so much like the little girl we brought home from AR instead of the young lady she was becoming. Even to the puffiness of her face. We aren't trying to make her feel bad, but become aware of something that may and probably will be a life long issue. To much sugar messes with her brain!
I wanted ammo to back this up so I started looking on line. I first typed in sugar and depression. This brought this information.
“Continuous large doses of sugar and/or carbohydrates, overtime, usually cause the brain's endorphins sites to slow production or close sites to regulate the amount of endorphins in the brain. When the body cuts back on endorphin production it reduces the amount of endorphins available in the body at any given time. The lack of enough endorphin in the brain causes slight to deep depression. To maintain a normal level of endorphins in the brain the individual must eat more sugar and/or carbohydrates to get out of depression and maintain a normal mood level. This causes a vicious cycle of addiction, physiologically”
“Physically, the body has been given a massive dose of sugar that goes straight into the blood system. It is the bodies business to keep the body's blood sugar stabilized. The body injects a massive dose of insulin. Insulin tries to neutralize the sugar by acting as a downer. The sugar's effect on the body is short lived and wears off within an hour. The effect of the insulin has greater staying power. It is there long after the sugar wears off. This causes another mood swing. This time the mood is one of depression. Physically the body experiences lethargy. This usually causes the individual to use sugar to feel better
Of course I didn't stop there. I kept researching. "Sugar’s effects are similar to those of many drugs, and can become an addiction. Many times the addiction starts in childhood, as we are offered candy as rewards, and so the mind begins to associate sweets with pleasure and other positive emotions at a very early age. As it is metabolized, sugar bypasses many parts of the digestive process, and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, raising the blood sugar level. It also produces a sharp rise in insulin, which is used by cells to absorb the sugar. Not only this, but sugar also causes the brain to release the chemical serotonin, boosting a person’s mood, and causing a mild feeling of happiness. As humans, we have been doubly reinforced to sugar; once by behavior-receiving it as a reward, and second, in the fact that it actually does produce some physical feelings of euphoria. Our bodies know that when they taste the sugar, the rush is coming. ….....Just as quickly as the sugar high hits, it passes just as quickly, and we are left feeling tired and wanting another ‘fix.’ A catch-22 to this situation is that even though sugar produces a serotonin boost, too much sugar depletes this chemical, leading to depression. This bears out a vicious cycle in which the body begins wanting more sugar, more serotonin, all the while depleting the serotonin, making the cravings worse.”http://www.sparkaonline.com/sugar_dangers.php
The more I read the more interested I became. I found this list of things that sugar is linked to. I found most of this list more than once! This is just the simplest list to include here. I shared this with S and at 17 she saw 11 things on this list that fit her. How many do you see that fit you? I can honestly say that what would have applied 10 years ago would have been a much longer list that issues I have today.
“Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to all of the following health problems. Note: this is not a comprehensive list.
• abdominal bloating and cramping
• aggression, excessive (especially in children)
• appendicitis
• arthritis
• asthma
• cancer
• cataracts
• chronic fatigue
• constipation
• decreased growth hormone levels
• depression
• diabetes
• difficult concentrating
• fluid retention
• gallstones
• headaches, including migraines
• heart disease
• hemorrhoids
• hypoglycemia
• immune system changes
• indigestion
• inflammation
• inflammatory bowel disease
• insomnia
• irritability
• learning disorders in children
• memory loss
• mineral deficiencies
• mood swings
• multiple sclerosis
• obesity
• osteoporosis
• panic attacks
• PMS
• premature aging
• seizures
• serum triglyceride and/or cholesterol levels, elevated
• skin rashes
• systolic blood pressure, elevated
• tooth decay
• toxemia during pregnancy
• yeast overgrowth/infections “
http://www.sparkaonline.com/sugar_dangers.php
Want more? Here is a link to 146 reasons that sugar is ruining your life. http://www.healingcancernaturally.com/sugar-health-effects-risks.html
Here is some stuff I didn't know.
“Since sugar is 'nutritionally naked', the body must 'borrow' the missing vitamins, minerals and other synergistic nutrients required to metabolize sugar from its own tissues.
Heavy sugar consumption therefore causes a constant siphoning of nutrients from the body. Recent evidence suggests that sugar causes dental problems not so much by contact with the teeth but rather by leaching the teeth of calcium from within.
Sugar also depletes the body of potassium and magnesium, which are required for proper cardiac function, and is therefore a major factor in heart disease.
The nutritional leaching caused by sugar can give rise to intense food cravings and eating binges, as the body seeks to replenish the nutrients 'stolen' from it by sugar.” http://www.hps-online.com/foodprof1.htm
I challenge everyone to do their own research on sugar. Some of the search words I used were: Sugar and depression, side effects white sugar and Dangers and Side Effects of Sugar. I ended up with 17 pages of information in less than an hour. I would love to send anyone that wants it all my raw copy and paste information if you want to wade through it.
So what is everyone's thoughts on this? Think this is all a joke? I wonder how much of this applies to the increase in meds given to our children to help them focus, to boost them out of depression, to set them in chairs, to manage their angry outburst, to contol their mood swings.... and the list goes on and on.
Yesterday she didn't finish her school work until after 6 PM! She flat couldn't stay focused! Lots of sullen looks and attitude went along with me trying to redirect her. She is usually finished with school and chores by 2-3 pm. So this wasn't “normal”.
This morning DH was home late so when he came into the room he greeted S with, “I see my little girl is still missing. I wish she would come home.” This led to a talk about attitudes, choices and how the quantity of junk, mainly sugar had effected her. She tried telling us it wasn't the sugar. She didn't know what it was, but “It wasn't the sugar.”
We agreed it may not be the sugar. We gave examples of foods or things that others she knows can't have. Two friends have children that can't have some of the red dyes. One child gets violent while the other swings from the ceiling. Then we talked about how I can't do very much sugar and Dr. Pepper is a huge NO NO for me. She has never saw me drink a DP, yet I love them. MJ can't listen to music with headphones. It overwhelms his system and his ears/brain shut down. I ask her if she knew what would happen to one of my on line friends if she had eaten all the junk S ate this weekend. She had no clue. I bluntly and truthfully told her she would be dead today.
She did finally admit she doesn't feel good inside right now. That was a big admission. She is so much like the little girl we brought home from AR instead of the young lady she was becoming. Even to the puffiness of her face. We aren't trying to make her feel bad, but become aware of something that may and probably will be a life long issue. To much sugar messes with her brain!
I wanted ammo to back this up so I started looking on line. I first typed in sugar and depression. This brought this information.
“Continuous large doses of sugar and/or carbohydrates, overtime, usually cause the brain's endorphins sites to slow production or close sites to regulate the amount of endorphins in the brain. When the body cuts back on endorphin production it reduces the amount of endorphins available in the body at any given time. The lack of enough endorphin in the brain causes slight to deep depression. To maintain a normal level of endorphins in the brain the individual must eat more sugar and/or carbohydrates to get out of depression and maintain a normal mood level. This causes a vicious cycle of addiction, physiologically”
“Physically, the body has been given a massive dose of sugar that goes straight into the blood system. It is the bodies business to keep the body's blood sugar stabilized. The body injects a massive dose of insulin. Insulin tries to neutralize the sugar by acting as a downer. The sugar's effect on the body is short lived and wears off within an hour. The effect of the insulin has greater staying power. It is there long after the sugar wears off. This causes another mood swing. This time the mood is one of depression. Physically the body experiences lethargy. This usually causes the individual to use sugar to feel better
Of course I didn't stop there. I kept researching. "Sugar’s effects are similar to those of many drugs, and can become an addiction. Many times the addiction starts in childhood, as we are offered candy as rewards, and so the mind begins to associate sweets with pleasure and other positive emotions at a very early age. As it is metabolized, sugar bypasses many parts of the digestive process, and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream, raising the blood sugar level. It also produces a sharp rise in insulin, which is used by cells to absorb the sugar. Not only this, but sugar also causes the brain to release the chemical serotonin, boosting a person’s mood, and causing a mild feeling of happiness. As humans, we have been doubly reinforced to sugar; once by behavior-receiving it as a reward, and second, in the fact that it actually does produce some physical feelings of euphoria. Our bodies know that when they taste the sugar, the rush is coming. ….....Just as quickly as the sugar high hits, it passes just as quickly, and we are left feeling tired and wanting another ‘fix.’ A catch-22 to this situation is that even though sugar produces a serotonin boost, too much sugar depletes this chemical, leading to depression. This bears out a vicious cycle in which the body begins wanting more sugar, more serotonin, all the while depleting the serotonin, making the cravings worse.”http://www.sparkaonline.com/sugar_dangers.php
The more I read the more interested I became. I found this list of things that sugar is linked to. I found most of this list more than once! This is just the simplest list to include here. I shared this with S and at 17 she saw 11 things on this list that fit her. How many do you see that fit you? I can honestly say that what would have applied 10 years ago would have been a much longer list that issues I have today.
“Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to all of the following health problems. Note: this is not a comprehensive list.
• abdominal bloating and cramping
• aggression, excessive (especially in children)
• appendicitis
• arthritis
• asthma
• cancer
• cataracts
• chronic fatigue
• constipation
• decreased growth hormone levels
• depression
• diabetes
• difficult concentrating
• fluid retention
• gallstones
• headaches, including migraines
• heart disease
• hemorrhoids
• hypoglycemia
• immune system changes
• indigestion
• inflammation
• inflammatory bowel disease
• insomnia
• irritability
• learning disorders in children
• memory loss
• mineral deficiencies
• mood swings
• multiple sclerosis
• obesity
• osteoporosis
• panic attacks
• PMS
• premature aging
• seizures
• serum triglyceride and/or cholesterol levels, elevated
• skin rashes
• systolic blood pressure, elevated
• tooth decay
• toxemia during pregnancy
• yeast overgrowth/infections “
http://www.sparkaonline.com/sugar_dangers.php
Want more? Here is a link to 146 reasons that sugar is ruining your life. http://www.healingcancernaturally.com/sugar-health-effects-risks.html
Here is some stuff I didn't know.
“Since sugar is 'nutritionally naked', the body must 'borrow' the missing vitamins, minerals and other synergistic nutrients required to metabolize sugar from its own tissues.
Heavy sugar consumption therefore causes a constant siphoning of nutrients from the body. Recent evidence suggests that sugar causes dental problems not so much by contact with the teeth but rather by leaching the teeth of calcium from within.
Sugar also depletes the body of potassium and magnesium, which are required for proper cardiac function, and is therefore a major factor in heart disease.
The nutritional leaching caused by sugar can give rise to intense food cravings and eating binges, as the body seeks to replenish the nutrients 'stolen' from it by sugar.” http://www.hps-online.com/foodprof1.htm
I challenge everyone to do their own research on sugar. Some of the search words I used were: Sugar and depression, side effects white sugar and Dangers and Side Effects of Sugar. I ended up with 17 pages of information in less than an hour. I would love to send anyone that wants it all my raw copy and paste information if you want to wade through it.
So what is everyone's thoughts on this? Think this is all a joke? I wonder how much of this applies to the increase in meds given to our children to help them focus, to boost them out of depression, to set them in chairs, to manage their angry outburst, to contol their mood swings.... and the list goes on and on.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Productive Monday!
Since I will be gone next weekend my DH ask me to do a few things. Mainly make pancake mix so all he has to do is add eggs and milk. I decided to make a double batch of granola also. I never make a single batch of anything around here. Today I have made two batches of granola and 2 batches of pancake mix. That is about 16 cups of flour for the pancakes and then 18-20 cups of oats in the granola. I even remembered to add apple pie spice and cinnamon to the granola. I have the dried fruit ready to add. I think I will sneak me some out first. I would rather not have it.
I still would like to make bread today or tomorrow. I should make tortillas too, but not sure just how long this energy level will last. :) I am working on laundry today also. I sorta got a late start on that. My focus was on cooking instead. I can't do the bread until I finish the granola. I use my oven like a dehydrator.
In barn news I have decided the cow that I "thought" was going to calf isn't. She cycled yesterday so that means 9 LONG months until a calf from her. OK, I will just keep milking her. I can use the milk.
I need to get my stuff together for retreat. I don't like last minute things. Thursday is a town day and I want to be ready to leave Friday when DH gets home. I did find my sleeping bag already. Laundry will be done today. I then just need clothes packed. I may go ahead and pack a Bible just so I don't forget it. Weather looks wonderful for this weekend! Yea! More yea for DH than us. Having room for kids to run is better than having 7-10 kids all shut up in the house all weekend. My mental list of don't forget is my MP3 player and sleeping bag. I figure I could make do without everything else but those two thing I want! :)
I still would like to make bread today or tomorrow. I should make tortillas too, but not sure just how long this energy level will last. :) I am working on laundry today also. I sorta got a late start on that. My focus was on cooking instead. I can't do the bread until I finish the granola. I use my oven like a dehydrator.
In barn news I have decided the cow that I "thought" was going to calf isn't. She cycled yesterday so that means 9 LONG months until a calf from her. OK, I will just keep milking her. I can use the milk.
I need to get my stuff together for retreat. I don't like last minute things. Thursday is a town day and I want to be ready to leave Friday when DH gets home. I did find my sleeping bag already. Laundry will be done today. I then just need clothes packed. I may go ahead and pack a Bible just so I don't forget it. Weather looks wonderful for this weekend! Yea! More yea for DH than us. Having room for kids to run is better than having 7-10 kids all shut up in the house all weekend. My mental list of don't forget is my MP3 player and sleeping bag. I figure I could make do without everything else but those two thing I want! :)
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