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Cindy's Rice Pilaf Mix (Feingold Diet)

>> Saturday, February 28, 2009

Sometimes, the Pure Facts Magazine/newsletter from the Feingold Association of the United States (FAUS) has recipes in it. So I would like to share one with you.

Cindy's Rice Pilaf Mix (Feingold Diet)
2 cups uncooked white rice (not instant)
1 cup orzo (pasta) vermicelli, broken into 1 inch pieces
1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix all of the ingredients and store in an air-tight container. To make 4 to 6 servings: Shake or stir the mixture well. Place 1 cup mix and 2 Tablespoons butter in a heavy saucepan and brown the rice and noodles. Add 2 1/4 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil. Cover; reduce heat. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Reprinted from Pure Facts, the newsletter of the Feingold Association of the United States, www.feingold.org.



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History of Autism

I thought that I would give you a little history of autism, and I would like to thank Patricia Lemer for her book,"Envisioning A Bright Future" Copyright 2008 by OEP Foundation, Inc. The information that I have given you has come from this book.

History of Autism
Autism comes from two Greek roots: auto (self), and ismos (condition). The word was first used by psychiatrist Eugene Bleuler in 1913. A few years earlier Theodore Hellar, a special educator in Vinenna, Austria wrote about some seemingly normal children whose behavior and learning deteriorated or was arrested in the second year of life. Heller proposed the term " dementia infantilis.

The discovery of autism is traditionally given to Leo Kanner who in the 1940's considered it to be a psychiatric disorder. In the 1960's and 1970's, Bruno Bettelheim called it childhood schizophrenia and as a result of being a "refrigerator mother". Until near the end of the 20th century Kanner's "classic" autism was the only type that was described in literature. Then, autism was rare, only one in 500,000. Patients that were diagnosed were considered unfortunate and untreatable, therefore, causing the medical establishments to ignore them and their families.

Then in the early 1990's physicians and nurses began to see more and more of these type of patients. This sparked a regression followed by a series of immunizations containing thimersol. Edward Yazbak and Congressman Dan Bruton (R-IN) have become outspoken advocates for changes in medical practice and policy because of their personal stories. Burton has held numerous Congressional hearings with government agencies, physicians, and scientists to get to the bottom of why mercury is added knowingly to vaccinations. Families began to share stories anyway they could to learn more about this epidemic.

In 1994, a meeting with one family sparked the generation of starting a registry. This meeting was the catalyst for the formation of the non-profit organization Developmental Delay Registry (DDR), which was later renamed Developmental Delay Resources. The DDR ran a statistical analysis of the responses that were completed by parents. A total of 449 children with autism spectrum diagnosis and 247 normally developing children. the results were that: 1.) children with developmental delays were 27% more likely than the unaffected kids to have had more than three ear infections. 2.) Four times as likely to have had a negative reaction to an immunization. 3.) Children who took 20 or more rounds of antibiotics were 50% more likely to be developmentally delayed than those who had not. DDR founders compiled this survey and Kelly Dorfman and Patricia Lemer saw that there were many commonalities in their early health histories: reflux, eczema, frequent ear infections, allergies, many rounds of antibiotics, yeast infections, thrush, diarrhea, constipation, immunization reactions, among others.

In the 1950's Dr. Bernard Rimland founded the Autism Research Institute. He was a psychologist and a father of an autistic son. He held "Defeat Autism Now" in January 1995. The categories included psychology, neurology, immunology, allergy, biochemistry, genetics, and gastroenterology. In February 1996, Defeat Autism Now published its first protocol co-authored by Dr. Sidney Baker, a Yale physician and former director of the Gesell Institiute and Dr. Jon Pangborn parent of autistic and chemist, as well as the President of Doctor's Date, a major medical laboratory. It has been updated five times and has grown from 40 to over 300 pages.

As early as 1867, Heinrich Stotzner, a German teacher of deaf, recognized children who did not have mental retardation, but had memories too weak to retain letters and fingers too poorly coordinated to write. James Hinshelwood who was a Scottish eye surgeon was one of the first to suggest that there was such a thing as dyslexia. In 1907, he diagnosed four brothers unlike their seven siblings with "congenital word blindness." The boys had normal intelligence, lacked visual problems, and had good visual memory except for letters and numbers, it was "evident that their defect was cerebral, probably hereditary, and caused by a defective language -related area of the brain. During the first have of the 20th century, psychiatrists, and psychologists perpetuated Hinselwoods's concept of "word blindness." Most educators attribute the term "learning difficulties" to Samuel Kirk. In the early 1960's he described children with "disorders in development of language, speech, reading, and associated communication skills" as "learning disabilities." The role of optometrist in a multi-disciplinary to learning disabilities is attributed to G.N. Getman.

In 1944, Viennese physician, Hans Asperger published a paper describing a pattern of behaviors in several young boys who had normal intelligence and language development, but who also exhibited autistic like behaviors with marked deficiencies in social and communication skills. It was not until 1994 that Asperger's Syndrome was added to the DSM-IV.

Rett's syndrome was first recognized by Andreas Rett in 1966 and affects only females. girls with Rett' s syndrome tend to have repetitive behaviors such as hand movements, prolong toe walking, body rocking, and sleep problems. In addition, Rett's syndrome demonstrates shakiness of the torso (limbs), unsteady, stiff-legged gait, breathing difficulties ( including hyperventilation, apnea, and air swallowing). Seizures, teeth grinding and difficulty chewing , retarded growth, hypo-activity, and a cognitive functioning level in the severely to profoundly mentally retarded range.

By the 1960's more and more children were entering schools as being "learning disabled." In 1969, with the passage of The Children with Specified Learning Disabilities Act, federal law finally mandated support services for students with learning disabilities. In 1975, Congress passed Public Law 94-142 or the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA). It was re-enacted in 1990 as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which assures children free and adequate education to school-aged children with a dozen handicapping conditions. Another law was made in 1990 called the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that extended services beyond school and into the college setting and the workplace.


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Big Entry Day Tomorrow

>> Friday, February 27, 2009

Hello readers, I've been working on a big entry for tomorrow so stay tuned in for the entry sometime tomorrow. See you then and hope you enjoy the picture.


Great Day Comments & Graphics

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Autistic Student Denied School Move In Prentiss County

>> Thursday, February 26, 2009

An autistic denied school move is the latest headline in our local newspaper. The parents of a 6 year old are suing two public school districts for denying their son who has Asperger's a right to free public education. They were denied of a temporary restraining order that would have allowed him to go to Tishomingo Co. School District. Since the family lives in Prentiss County, then it would not be allowed for the boy to go to school there until the review on March 9. He was attending at a Prentiss Co. school district, but his behavior was causing a problem and his mother, Deanna Thacker, withdrew him from school. The Prentiss Co. School District has said that they would allow for the student to return from school. After Deanna withdrew her son Ryan from school, Prentiss County released him to attend Tishomingo County, but Tishomingo County would not allow the transfer.

We don't receive many of the cases around here, but there was one not to long ago just south of us. I dislike seeing articles like this, and thankful that my boys are receiving their free education in an environment where their behavior can be controlled. The schools are really good about handling behavior problems. We've had some bad times at school, but they have never denied them education because of it. I hope that everything works out with this situation, and that justice will be served to the one in need.


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Beef Stew Recipe

Beef Stew

1-1/2 pounds lean cubed beef
4 tablespoons GF flour mix
1 dash paprika
1 GF beef bouillon cube
2 teaspoons olive oil
4 carrot, 1 inch thick
2 potatoes, cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
15 ounces stewed tomatoes, canned with juices
15 ounces corn, canned with juices
15 ounces peas, canned with juices
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Dredge meat in flour, brown in hot oil. Add meat and all other ingredients into crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 2-4 hours. Or cover and simmer on medium for 90 minutes.



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GFCF Party Popcorn

Party Popcorn

3 ounces popped popcorn, approximately 3 quarts
1 cup salted peanuts
4 ounces CF Margarine
16 ounces dark brown sugar, approximately 2 cups
1/4 cup dark corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract

Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Spray a sheet pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper. Spray the parchment paper with nonstick spray as well and set aside. Combine the popcorn and peanuts in a large mixing bowl. Set aside until ready to use.

Melt the margarine in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup and vanilla and stir until combined. Heat the mixture until it reaches 250 degrees F, approximately 10 minutes.

Pour the syrup over the popcorn and stir to combine. You will need to work quickly because the syrup hardens rapidly. Spread the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and bake in the oven for 1 hour. Cool completely. Break into pieces and serve immediately or store in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days.




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GFCF Bread Recipe

A friend of mine sent this recipe to me, and I thought that I would share it with you.

GFCF Bread
3 eggs room temp
3 table spoons oil
1 1/2 cup of water, room temp
1 cup rice flour
1/2 cup potato starch flour
1 cup garbanzo bean flour
1/4 cup tapioca flour
3 table spoons brown sugar, or white we just like the brown best
1 1/2 teaspoons of salt
2 1/2 tablespoons rapid rise yeast
4 teaspoon xantha gum

Place wet ingredients in bread maker first, then dry, and yeast last. Set for short cycle, or rapid rise cycle. If you don't have a short cycle, use regular yeast for longer cycles or the bread will fall from too much heat time on the rapid rise yeast. Freeze sliced bread on a cookie sheet. When individual slices are frozen, put into a bag and store in the freezer, take out and thaw as needed.

Bread...makes a 2 lb loaf in a bread machine. I also use this to make hamburger buns and deli type bread. Just take it out once the dough has finished and before it bakes. It will be just about impossible to touch, so use a big spoon to dip out and put globs on a cookie sheet, size depending on if you need rolls or buns. Bake at 375 until hollow when thumped and golden brown.



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Sky Walker Suffering From Autism Accused Of Murder

>> Wednesday, February 25, 2009

A short article today about an autistic boy who had beat his mother to death. She was a professor in Ohio. Such a sad thing to have happened. According to court records, a grand jury indicted Sky Walker on Friday on two counts of murder and one count of assault on a law enforcement officer. He is being held in jail on a two million dollar bond issue. His mother was Gertrude "Trudy" Steuernagel, who died on Feb. 6, a week after she was severely injured in the beating. They are waiting to see if he is able to sand trial. The Associated Press came out with the article entitled, "Autistic son charged in death of professor in Ohio."



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Autism and Love

David Hamrick, 29, and Lindsey Nebeker, 27, are both considered autistic and they are in love. they live together in a Jackson, Miss. apartment but in separate rooms. They do their own thing, but just share a home together. They have their sensitivities as well. She can't handle florescent lighting and he just can't stand a room that is too warm or cringes at certain sounds. This article talks about how they met and how they are doing being an adult, autistic and in love. Such a cute couple. Find out how they are coping as an autistic couple. I wish all the luck to these two and all the other couples out there that are making it work. Congratulations.

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IEP Social Skills of Fifth Grader

>> Tuesday, February 24, 2009

IEP's are a child's best friend when it comes to school and how their day runs. I found this one of a fifth grader's communication plan. A social connection is one of the hardest goals for a child with autism to acquire. So the Autism Support Network has given an example of one boy's goal sheet. I hope that you will read over it an get some ideas for your child's IEP. Some people just find it hard to talk to others. I have been that way for years, but I am getting better. I am the anti-social type and have few friends. The boys however, are doing fair when it comes to their social skills. I have seen some areas that need improvement, but at the same time feel that it will eventually come forth.

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Risperdal Not Effective Treatment for Autism

One of the only FDA approved medications for autism has been proved to be ineffective against a placebo or sugar pill. That is just to bad. I had once wanted to try this with my kids, but the doctor would not let them try for his own reasons I guess. Autism Speaks announced initial results for the first industry-sponsored trial of the Autism Clinical Trials Network (ACTN), the Study of Fluoxetine in Autism (SOFIA). Neuropharm Group Plc., helped out in the research. They are a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on neurodevelopment disorders. You can read more about Risperdal being ineffective for autism with in the article. It is really nice to know that they are out there trying to keep our kids safe when medication seems the only road to take at a certain point in ones life.

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Arkansas Cigarette Tax To Help Autism Community

Arkansas has a good idea when it comes to the cigarette tax. How about using it for an autism program. sounds perfect and that will generate 1.5 million a year. That is great. Gov. Mike Bebee sign into law money for autism funding, over an 86 million dollar tobacco tax. It would provide treatment for up to 100 children at a time who need extensive treatment for 6 months to 3 years. It is just a start for the program, but hopefully more funding will be available. Gov. Bebee stressed that the spreadsheet for the office said that it would not contain any Medicaid matching dollars for the autism program.

According to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, 10 states have Medicaid programs specifically designed for autism treatment. They are Indiana, Maryland, Wisconsin, Colorado, South Carolina, Maine, Massachusetts, Kansas, Pennsylvania, and Montana. There are eight states with such requirements according to the task force: Arizona, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Texas.

It would be really nice to have something in Mississippi for autism children. We have our therapies and that is great, but we are not able to have special schools for these children. We have little resources for autism in Mississippi, and something should be done here as well. We need more DAN doctors available, and more efficient programs. Some Applied Behavior Analysis treatment wouldn't been so bad either. Hopefully one day we are able to receive the same treatment that comes lightly to others.




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Vidoes For Kids

>> Monday, February 23, 2009

Do you have little kids running around the house? Most do and I thought that I would share this new website that has videos for kids ages 3-6 and one for 7-12. Oh how wonderful. Something for the kids to actually sit down at watch so you can get the dishes done. The videos include kids TV shows from Nickelodeon as well as series created just for Web videos. So I hope that you will go check it out with the kids and find something good to watch just for a few minutes. Enjoy your time and save me some popcorn.

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Why Your Child Is Hyperactive Book Review

>> Sunday, February 22, 2009

In 1965, one woman sparked a notion in Dr. Feingold's eye. He described her as having hives, and a swollen face mainly around the eyes. When she tested negative for allergies, he immediately placed her on what would become the Feingold Program. Within 72 hours the hives were gone and she miraculously had been relieved of hostile and aggressive behavior. Because De. Feingold had no previous experience with behaviors, he alerted his staff to look for similar situations. He first based his scientific knowledge by using fleas. You can read another entry I have done on Feingold's Flea Theory here.

He had also wondered about aspirin as well. This would later become the removal of natural salicylates. This was another big observation for Dr. Feingold. He then began to ask if artificial flavorings and colorings were causing behavioral disturbances. Remember the women? She had behavioral changes when she was put on the diet for hives. Now he was getting somewhere.

There are wonderful success stories throughout the book that absolutely proves that this diet works. He also explains the patterns of hyperactivity. Dr. Feingold was not fond of using medications , and always hoped that his diet would eliminate the need for them whenever possible. He explains of his experiences on them in on chapter. He further explains that medications may have synthetics as well; there are no different and should be eliminated.

This is a wonderful collection of how the Feingold Program was scientifically created through the eyes of a well known doctor. This is a great resource book and a wonderful piece for anyone having interest in the Feingold Program.




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Video of Octuplets Mother Now In More Need Than Ever

>> Saturday, February 21, 2009

Here with an article/video describing that the octuplets family is on the verge of foreclosure.
I wish them well and comfort in their hearts. Best Wishes from me to your family. The grandmother speaks out about their situation. I hope that you will go on over a hear this story. Comments are open here as well on the video.

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IEP Kindergarten autistic student

Here is Devin's IEP Kindergarten

Devin is a five (6) year old boy who was experiencing delays in the areas of language, cognitive, self-help, social, fine, and gross motor skills. According to the LAP-3, he has mastered the skills in the cognitive area up to 47 months and is now functioning at 59 months. Devin can classify pictures by pointing and match related pictures. Devin has mastered language skills up to 41 months and is now functioning at 65 months. He uses personal pronouns (I, you, me) and answer questions appropriately. He has also mastered skills in the areas of of self-help and social. In the areas of fine and gross motor, progress has been made but more time is needed to met goals. Devin has made tremendous progress since beginning services in November 2007. He participates in whole group activities such as reciting nursery rhyme, singing songs, listens attentively to story, and responds to questions appropriately. Devin follows classroom rules and works well with other children. He is able to integrate into the General pre-k where he participates in classroom activities. Since Devin will be in a learning environment next year it is recommended that he receive tutorial services with SPED teacher as needed. His parents want Devin to continue strengthen his skills in all areas.

Goals:
Measures paper with non-standard unit.
Names and tells use of clock.
Completes bead pattern.
Predicts and tests hypothesis.
Running broad jumps.
Imitates building "gate" with cubes.
Uses pencil sharpener.
Winds thread on spool.
Puts paper clips on papers.
Folds and creases paper horizontally and vertically.
Demonstrate that print carries meaning for the reader.
Points to words in a text when reading aloud, matching spoken words to pint.
Recognizes that sentences in print are made up of separate words.
Distinguish letters from words.
Count forward to 20 and backwards from 10.
Recognize and write numbers represent quantities to 0 to 20.
Create models of sets of objects 0 to 20.

He will be taking the Terra Nova school test this year.


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IEP 2nd grade autistic student

IEP's are a very important part of a child school life with autism. Many probably have trouble dealing with them. What should I put on there and so on. I myself ask the same questions, and wonder what others have on their child's plan. I thought that I would share with you the boy's IEP this school year.

Eddie 7y/o 2nd grade

Eddie is a second grade student at ___ school. Eddie knows all the sight words on the first grade sight word list. According to On the Mark Assessment, Eddie is reading on a J level. Eddie know recognizes almost all the numbers 0-100. Eddie can add with and without regrouping and subtract without regrouping. He can tell time to the hour and half hour. He can identify coins and state their value. He has trouble determining mixed coins to $1.00. He has a little trouble counting by 2's. Eddie has trouble spacing words when writing. He knows how to spell most words on the first grade sight word list. Eddie likes to establish a routine and get a little annoyed when he is detoured from his routine. Eddie adjusts to his routine slowly. Depending on the type of day Eddie is having depends on how well he interacts with his classmates. Eddie has some trouble accepting the word "No". Eddie does except some consequences for his actions. Eddie's parents are concerned about his progress and they want him to do well. Eddie will participate in the general ed. classing in the following areas: Science, Social Studies, P.E., Art, Spanish, Library, Music, recess, lunch, Math, and any other extra curricular activities. Eddie will participate in the special ed. classroom in the following areas: language arts.

Here are the specifics of the IEP:
small group, extra time to complete assignments, cue student on stay on task, highlight key words or phrases in directions, read, repeat or paraphrase directions--not passages.

Uses restraints and does not call inappropriate attention to self.
Accepts consequences of own actions without shutting down.
Will complete and master the 2nd grade math objectives according to the Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks with 70% mastery.
Will complete and master the 2nd grade reading objectives according to the Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks with 70% mastery.
Will complete and master the 2nd grade language arts according to the Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks with 70% mastery.
Will complete and master the 2nd grade science/social studies goals according to the Mississippi Curriculum Frameworks with 70% mastery.


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Autism Legislation Needs Your Help

>> Friday, February 20, 2009

Right now, lawmakers in Washington, DC are working on critical autism legislation. By the time Congress votes on this bill in early March, we need to make sure they understand just how vital this issue is to families living with autism and to our communities. Can we count on your support?

Taking action on this important issue is easy – just click here to send an email to Congress today.

In order to help the children and adults living with autism live better lives, the autism legislation that Congress is working on must include:

  • Increased research funding for autism intervention and services.
  • Expansion of health insurance to cover vital autism-related services.
  • Establishment of a National Autism Family Resource and Information Center, to provide families with accurate, trustworthy information about intervention and other services.

Together, we can improve services for children and adults living with autism. We can make sure they have the chance to lead joyful and independent lives.

Don't wait! Urge Congress to pass stronger autism legislation. Send an email by March 1st!




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IZEA and Sea World Contest

IZEA and Sea World are working together with bloggers to participate in a contest to win a trip to Sea World. How fun that would be. You can win a trip for four to ride Mania. All you have to do is send a comment over, or write a blog post on why you would take your family. I would absolutely love to take a vacation. Our family could really use something nice like that, and to experience it once in our lifetime. The boys would absolutely love to go and see what is out there beyond what they already know. They would have a blast getting to go somewhere like that. Manta Mania 3 will be the best roller coaster ride ever. I hope that you will go on over and enter for your chance to win.




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GFCF Crafts The Blob, Fingerpaint, and Bubbles

>> Thursday, February 19, 2009

Playtime for kids is always fun. When it comes to non edible products, they can cause a reaction as well. Here are some crafts that you can make at home for the kids to play in, and you know that it will be safe for their sensitive bodies.


The Blob 
1/2 cup tapioca starch
1/2 cup salt
1 tablespoon oil
2 teaspoons GFCF cream of tartar

Acceptable flavoring for smell e.g. pure vanilla extract

Mix dry ingredients into a heavy pan. Add oil, water to above . Use pure vanilla extract for smell, or any other Feingold acceptable aroma. Cook, stirring constantly until mixture pulls away from sides of pan (almost immediately).

Fingerpaint GFCF/ADHD
1/2 cup tapioca starch
1/2 cup cold water
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1/2 cup Ivory flakes
1 tablespoon glycerin
Food coloring (Feingold Diet acceptable) organic

Dissolve tapioca starch in cold water. Add the boiling water and cook the mixture until it is clear, stirring constantly. Add the soap flakes, and stir well. Remove from stove immediately, and cool. Stir in glycerin and food coloring.

Bubble Stuff
2 2/3 cups Ivory flakes (not detergent)
1 teaspoon sugar
4 teaspoons glycerine (drugstore)

Pour the above ingredients into a quart jar with a lid and shake well. fill the jar all but half an inch with lukewarm water. Screw the lid on tightly and shake very hard. This mixture can be stored in the refrigerator but makes the best bubbles at room temperature or warmer. If you encounter any difficulty with the bubbles breaking before they are formed, add a bit more glycerin.

Reprinted from Caring and Cooking for the Allergic Child by Linda L. Thomas Sterling Publishing Company 1980.

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Robots and Autism


One day robots will help autistic children with their social skills one day according to this article out of Nashville, TN. For sometime now robots have been used to treat people with autism to do many things. The only problem they have now would be that they had no way of monitoring the emotional state of the child and be able to respond. Quite a task if you ask me. The research was made possible by a grant from the Marino Autism Reasearch Institute, and two papers, the results of the study, will be published in IEEE Transactions on Robotics and the International Journal of Human -Computer Science. I hope that you will enjoy reading the article. There is another one here as well. Robots helping our children react to the world.

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Fight Is Not Over For Iowa

>> Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Activists in Iowa are still going to push efforts about vaccines causing autism; however, there was a ruling last week that denied the fact that thimersol in vaccines caused autism. Parents will still keep trying to blame vaccines for their children's autism, and won't let a few mishaps get in their way. Legislative Bill House File 56 would ban the mercury additive in the flu shot. You can read about the article here. They wish all the parents luck in finding the real reason their children have autism, and basically admit that vaccines do not cause autism because of all of the scientific evidence leading up to the proposed theory.

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Needing Free Coupons

I am always needing coupons for certain things that we need here at home. So I went out looking and found this website that has online coupons for free. Get Coupon codes & Promo Offers at Pricepickle.com. Everything that you could imagine you needed a coupon for; now you can have it as well. Going on a trip, or getting a present there is a coupon waiting for you. Browsing for what you need is easily categorized. Head on over to see what they can do for you. With the way our economy is today who doesn't need a coupon for something? When we were kids coupon clipping was very popular, and now you have easier access to even more than your Sunday's paper. You will be surprised at all of the coupons you will have once you have finished browsing. Hope you enjoy your time and let me know if you find anything interesting.

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Something Just Isn't Right

Well, it's time for another medication evaluation for Little Ed. His ADHD medication (that he must have) is causing autism like symptoms. So here we are back having trouble at school. He is like a mad child everywhere he does due to types of sensitivities I guess. Sometimes, I can't even tell which one is which. Some scientists believe that ADD/ADHD is at one end of the spectrum, and autism is at the other end. In between is every other similar issue that falls between these two. He is doing everything that he is not supposed to when it comes to his behavior. It started a few days ago after being off his medicine for several days due to a shorted supply. We just seem to run out before the next doctors appointment. He is having an attitude difficulty in which he portrays through his voice of little care and energy. Just seems angry...I don't know. He had threatened another little girl at school while a substitute was there. He was probably over stimulated by something. This time, he wouldn't do his work in class. This child is so out of sorts that I don't know where to begin. How in the world do you treat ADHD without it interfering with their autism as well?

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Dr. Feingold on World War II and The Food Industry

I thought that I would add a few excerpts from books today. This one will talk about the food industry after World War II, and the science behind the colors. Also, on how we have changed our way of eating. Jane Hersey author of "Why Can't My Child Behave?" His will follow. These guys are my favorite Feingold people.

World War II is a turning point for many statistics. It signals a sharp drop in the age at which depression is likely to start. It also marks the point at which behavior problems in children gradually begin to rise to epidemic proportions.

Dr. Feingold noted, " The first half of my almost fifty years as a physician were spent as a pediatrician. During this pediatric experience I had exposure to thousands of children with a great variety of aliments. Yes I had no recollection of a high frequency of hyperactivity and behavioral problems through all these years." But in the years following the end of World War II, the use of synthetic food additives increased dramatically. They continue to increase as do the problems of hyperactivity, depression, and the incidence of suicide.

In Dr. Feingold's Book, "Why Your Child Is Hyperactive", he describes the story of food additives. Here is a few paragraphs from the book.

"....Beginning in the Post-Civil War period, it moved gradually from damp cellar and barn to gleaming laboratories; after World War II it spurted technologically and synthetically, into the multimillion-dollar business of today. (The Food Industry)

All allergists, as well as other medical doctors have wrestled with the subtle additives time and time again in both external and internal disorders. In some way, it has been a losing battle because of the food of them. One item is delisted by the government; another rises to take it's place. One additive doesn't quite do its job of preserving, binding, coloring or flavoring, and the chemist are quick to construct a "better" product.

Prior to the days of Abe Lincoln, there was no formal food industry in the United States. Many people grew what they ate, using natural colorings or flavorings as the ONLY additives-natural juices of fruits and vegetables. Crude time-proven substances and methods were employed for preservation: spices, smoke, and salt. Cooling or freezing between blocks of sawdust-coated ice.
Those who shopped at market stalls could be assured that the products had come out of the ground or off the smoke racks with little alteration.

But with the migration to the cities, the pattern of life changed irrevocably and so did the food supply. Enterprise was needed to feed the new city dwellers. Preservatives were required and the old methods were unsufficient to handle large quantities of food. Spoiled food meant smaller profits-enter the nonnatural chemical additives!"

Wow I would say. He is correct though. After reading his book I was glad that I got to. It is so wonderful. He is a highly intelligent person who could grab your attention quickly with his knowledge of the one diet that made him who he was. After reading this book, as well as Jane Hersey's "Why Can't My Child Behave", you will be convinced that this program is what is seems to be. I have pictures of the books with a link to amazon for you to order. You will learn how Dr. Feingold came upon the idea of how additives and preservatives react to a hyperactive child as well as an autistic child. Enjoy reading.

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Shoes Shoes Everywhere

Do you love shoes? I found a website that I think that you will all enjoy. Women's Shoes are available in many different kinds, and at a decent price. My favorite shoes are clogs, because they are just the most comfortable shoe to wear around the house. I am going through my second pair quickly. Guess I need to order some from this company. They do have them for sale, as well as many other brands to choose from. Men's Shoes are popular as well. Any kind of shoe that he can think of this company is sure to please him. You are always telling him that he needs new shoes, well now you could just buy them for him as a gift to say that I care.  Shoes keep your feet warm and protected so get out there and get your new pair today. This is just an example of the companies own shoe line. Don't let boots discourage you. They have it all and it is all waiting for you to see. Happy shopping and I hope that you find something that you are interested in. Happy feet makes happy people so keeping your feet well protected does a body good.

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Autism/ADHD News Stories For Today

>> Tuesday, February 17, 2009

There were a few stories out there that I wanted to share with you. Instead of doing them one by one, I thought that I would try something different and talk about each one briefly and we'll see how that works.

Autism News is doing fair for today. There was some big news coming out of Montana. Their autism insurance bill has been approved for the state by the senate. This is very good news for them. In recent days, these bills have been going through American states, some have been approved and some have been declined. You can read about Montana here. Details of the bill are inside the link.

Next, we have Autism Advocates hopes for legislation funding in Nevada. They received 2 million dollars, but say that it was not enough for the proposed state budget. Advocates are still trying to receive more funding. They are going under Assembly Bill 162. You can read the article here.


Only six states in the country require their insurance companies to cover Autism treatment. If Assembly Bill 162 passes, Nevada will be the seventh. Last legislative session, lawmakers approved $2 million for Autism funding. There is a measure being drafted right now that would put that money back into the budget.

Standardized tests are required for school age children, but because of IDEA, Lisa Jo Rudy explains that they are getting left behind by not being required to take the tests. She explains this here in this article. She talks about No Child Left Behind, but autistic students are not taking these standardized test. My two boys have never taken these tests, and it doesn't look like it will be anytime soon either. She is right about it having to be put on the students IEP. Our school system is the same way. No suggestions just do it and be done with it. They need a few things put on there as well.

Here is a short article about low fish consumption can lead to ADHD. Using Omega-3 fatty acids to build up certain functions. Just don't know if you should stay away from fish due to mercury as well. Hmmm..don't know about that one. Hope you enjoy the article though. Let's see how well this post goes, so I'm off to publishing...

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Melissa Is Still Our Winner


With just a month away, somebody will have won the book "Rex" By: Kathleen Lewis. You have an opportunity to give a shout out on a few comments and it will be mailed to you. This is a wonderful book if you would read the review that I gave it here. Congratulations to Melissa for still having the most comments. Hope you all will join as well. No matter who you are. It's a FREE book afterall.

This is one of the best books that I have ever read. I am still learning to read more that what I have done in the past, and this book kept me glued to the book. It only took me three days of reading to finish it and I am fortunate to have a copy for myself. Now you can to with a few words from you.

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Skiing in Vermont

>> Monday, February 16, 2009

A vacation sounds really good right about now. Just to be able to get away from it all. I would love to go to this place that I found. Romantic weekend getaways are perfect this time of year to go skiing in Vermont with that special someone. Can you imagine being with your special person in Virginia on a romantic vacation for the weekend. It's that wonderful time of year for Family vacation deals as well, for when you are trying to teach the kids how to ski, or just try to relearn for yourself. I just couldn't believe those unbeatable prices. Makes anyone just want to grab up their bags and go visit this wonderful resort. Ski vacation packages are also available for you and your loved ones. So pack your bags and visit the website for some of the best deals for skiing in Vermont. What more could you want for packages starting at $99? Hope to see you in Vermont soon, and while you are there pick me up a souvenir. Take a ride to Virginia and enjoy the moments that you cherish the most. Have a wonderful trip and I'll see you when you get back.

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February 8 is Autism Sunday


Wow a day to recognize the one thing that keeps most of us going...Autism Sunday. I knew that there had to be a day for autism, and behold it is coming up. Here is an article that i found that talks about. Autism Sunday is recognized by many famous people, and I believe that I will do the same. One day to just breathe on the fact that we are having to cope with two of the worst childhood diseases ever in my opinion.

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Baked Squash Casserole ADHD/GFCF

Baked Squash Casserole
1 medium squash or 1 frozen package
2 tablespoons sweet butter GFCF
2 tablespoons brown sugar
salt and pepper to taste
milk substitute
crushed cornflakes or meringue

Either steam or bake the squash, or use the frozen product. Salt and pepper to taste. Add a little milk until the right consistency. put in greased casserole dish with a topping of finely crushed cornflakes (check label for synthetics) or meringue. The cornflakes should be mixed with a little melted butter or shortening.

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Optical Needs Need Zenni Optical

I was digging around at the New York Times website. I came across a wonderful article about being able to afford glasses without going bankrupt. The article gives you financial tips on how to save money when it comes to taking care of your eyesight. You can read the New York Times article to get your saving tips and maybe you can formulate some wonderful ideas on what you can do to save money on your eyesight.

My favorite part of the article concerned Zenni Optical eyeglasses. . Zenni Optical offers scratch resistant glasses for only eight dollars. That is a wonderful deal, and they were also recognized by the New York Times. You just can't beat an offer like that one. I go over to their website to pick out some eye glasses for myself since I could use them now. My favorite pair is the one pictured in this blog. They are beautiful and stylish just like me. The best part is that they are only eight dollars. I can not beat that deal. I highly recommend this site to anyone. They have a huge variety of glasses along with that one outstanding price of eight dollars. Choose from a large variety today! I just absolutely love this pair. I may even decided to get my next pair from this company. So start saving and pick up your eye glasses.

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Our Weekend

The weekend started off bad when it was time to take the boys to school on Friday. We noticed a flat tire. Oh joy for us. I ended up flagging down the neighbor to get them to school, but the end didn't last there. I ended up not having a way to pick them up from school in the afternoon. So, I started walking. The school is 1/2 mile from here so the entire trip was a mile or just over a mile. I have done this many times over the years just to make sure they go to school. The trip reeks havoc on my body, and I won't be able to function correctly by the next day. I end up hurting my joints in my body, creating pain. I hate having arthritis. The next day I ended up walking to the store (same distance) again. Something that I totally didn't need to do, but I did it anyways. We finally got the tire patched up and was even able to go to town last night. 

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Is your autistic student ready for the SAT

>> Sunday, February 15, 2009


300x250
The SAT's are coming up and is your high school student ready?Now they can be for only $98.00. Wow a whole lot of wonderful additions that come with this offer. Everything from online videos, interactive quizzes that you know they will love, a self diagnosis test to determine your strengths and weaknesses in certain areas. Also they have 24 hour access to downloads and worksheets, as well as some wonderful teachers to be of assistance to you. They are  a wonderful company and I highly recommend it. So get your teenager ready here http://www.brightstorm.com/sat/landing?a=10104.


I remember taking the SAT. I wasn't all that prepared, but I went in with what I did know. I came out of the college campus room with a 21. I was proud too. If I had this product, I know that I would have done much better. I went in blind and came out with a 21. 

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Tupelo, MS March Autism Meeting

>> Saturday, February 14, 2009

March 23, 2009 will be a special night for Tupelo' s autism meeting. We will have Jim Callaghan speak. He is Mississippi's only DAN doctor. Hope locals will come to hear him speak. It is truly an honor to have him come. The meeting will be held at the Lee Co. Library at 6:00p.m. Hope to see everyone there, and a few new ones as well. I had planned on taking the boys to see him, but since he doesn't accept MS Medicaid, I am unfortunately not got to be able to take them. Though they need it so very much. With all of my research that I have done in the past, I think that we are actually getting somewhere with what exactly is their problem. ADHD is our main concern for now since it seems to be affecting them more than the autism at this point. I am not saying that they don't have their autism symptoms, but the ADHD is more of a problem. Well, hope you have a great day. And we'll see you at the meeting next month.

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Ten Year Old Autistic Boy Arrested

Ian Garvin was cutting his shirt with a pair of scissors when his teacher told him to stop. He then fell to a tantrum and ran out of the room and locked himself inside the principle's office. When teachers tried to confront him, he attacked back by hitting and kicking a teacher. His mother Heather Hawk, said "He just wanted to be alone and he was trying to get them away the only way he knows how." Autistic children do have tempermental times, and when they do it is always they just want to be away from the situation. I have been through similar situations with my oldest wanting to threaten other children, but the school understands that he does have autism and that a possibility of an eruption could happen. They wanted to suspend him, but the therapist intervined. Saving him this time. He usually gets this way when he is off of him medicine due to not having any, but is behaving properly when he is on it. Without it, he is just impossible to handle and to deal with. You can read the story here on MSNBC.

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Happy Valentine's Day


Happy Valentines Graphics

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>> Friday, February 13, 2009


Valentine's Day Comments

Happy Valentine's Day Ed! Here is a picture for you. I love you very much and I am very proud of you for everything that you do.

Love you always,
MOM

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Happy Valentine's Day Dev


Happy Valentine's Day Comments

Here is you a Valentine's Day card for you. Hope you like it...I love you and I am very proud of you for everything that you do.

Love you always,
MOM

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Nadya Suleman Launches Website For Octuplets Donations

A mother of 14 children is asking the world for help. She has octuplets (8), and one older child with ADHD, one with a speech impediment, and one with autism. This wonderful mother is crying out to the world because she just can't survive with these children and no job, debt, and very low income. I am in the same boat with only two, so my heart goes out to her. Hopefully someone will help her out and get her back on her feet to where she can properly take care of her children. The article is here. The families website is here.

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Measles Vaccine Not To Be Blamed For Autism

News this morning from the Associated Press that the measles vaccine cannot be blamed for autism. Due to backed scientific evidence, the courts just couldn't justify that vaccines do in fact cause autism. In order for the lawyers and families to win, they had to directly prove that it was in fact that thimserosal that caused autism in the first place. There was a reported 5,300 claims filed since 2001. You can read about the article here.

Both of my boys didn't receive shots until after 2001 in August when my oldest one was born. So therefore I am not sure if the vaccines that they had caused their autism, but in my heart, I think that it was totally genetic and partially environmental. The overload of colors I consumed while pregnant could have been a possibility as well.

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Needing Furniture Shop Now and Save

>> Thursday, February 12, 2009

Are you looking for some new furniture? Then you have come to the right place for all of your shopping needs. Just visit this wonderful website here. There are lots of beautiful pieces here and one of my favorites are these bathroom vanities. They are so beautiful and I know that they will look awesome in your home. They are reasonably affordable, so owning one of your own is much easier than you think. They also have bathroom vanity sets which is a perfect combination for adding beautiful things to your home for others to share and enjoy. They are offering shipping deals as well, which makes it easier on you and your wallet. You can't miss this wonderful opportunity to get such great deals on bathroom vanities and so much more.


They also have bedroom furniture that is a wonderful addition to any of the bedrooms in your home. I love bedroom suites, and I know that these will be perfect for you. Every house loves new furniture so come on over and join us in a celebration of something new. This is a great idea for new couples trying to get all their furniture needs, or just for choosing that one specific piece that fits perfectly in your home. Put them on your wish list, or just take charge and order yours today. Your home will thank you and your friends will be in awe of your accomplishments just by adding some new furniture in your home.

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Autism and Gene Duplication

I do believe in genetics when it comes to autism and other diseases. I have always felt that the increase in autism is due to a genetic duplication of genes. We are evolving as we speak and this article explains on how that it is possible. Our genes are always changing with every new birth, and we are at an age where autism is becoming that change. The article explains that segments of DNA in its genome began to form duplicate copies at a greater rate in the past, creating an instability that persists in the genome of modern humans and contributes to diseases like autism and schizophrenia. Hopefully this will come of age and we can find out what or why there are so many autistic individuals in our current gene pool.

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Missing Asperger's Teenager From Washington

A teenager who has Asperger's Syndrome has gone missing in the Washington area. His name is William Van Croft. He is currently not on his medication right now and because of this he can become agitated. He left his home just one year after the death of his father. William was last seen at about 4:30 pm on Thursday, January 31, in the 1300 block of G Street SE. If you have seen him, please contact the police at (202) 727-9099. You may read the article here.

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St. Augustine School of Medical Assistant Is Available To You

>> Wednesday, February 11, 2009



Online college classes are becoming very popular in our modern world. The St. Augustine School of Medical Assistant has a very professional online course for medical assistant courses. These days it is very hard to find work without a degree in something.

The medical industry is a never ending fiel of work. You can learn about their program by going here. With St. Augustine School of Medical Assistant, you can choose when you take your classes and you do not have a limited time to finish the courses. Be your own teacher; with their support when you need help. They are available to people around the world.

There are numerous medical programs available. Tuition is low...very low. St. Augustine School of Medical Assistant just has everything you could hope for in an online class. There are a few requirements for classes, but it is easily affordable as well. I once wanted to try an online class, but most of them where too expensive to even bother with.

Take advantage of this low price while you still can. Don't wait another minute to find out exactly what St. Augustine School of Medical Assistant can do for you . Get the education you need today for a prosperous future. Treat yourself to a great job in any of the medical assistance programs that they have to offer. I highly recommend this website and online school.

BuyBlogReviews.com

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Virginia's Autism Bill Is Rejected

Sad news is coming out this morning about an autism bill in Virginia that was for payment for autism treatment through families insurance companies. I fell sadden for them and wish them all the luck. Fortunately for the poor we have medicaid, or my boys wouldn't have the treatment they have. It's not much and more could be done, but I live in a small big town, and the bigger treatment plans are just not in our reach. That is ok though, because I am proud of where they are today. You can read the article here. Best of Luck to those in Virginia and the others who are dealing with these sort of things. All health care should be paid somehow since it is so expensive and doctors just charge to much.

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Welcome to IllPic.com


Hello Comments

I found this website through a friend called Illpic. They have pictures for MySpace comments, but you can find some that are useful for neat things to put on your blog, or even as a comment on MySpace. I really like the one above because it goes with my page. Hope you will find some there that will fit your blog or other page that accepts HTML/Java codes. Have a great day everyone, and I hope that some news pops up that I can tell you about later. So please check back througout the day for new entries.

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Sweedish Cabbage Rolls GFCF and Feingold Diet

More recipes for you... this one can be used on the GFCF and Feingold Diets.

Sweedish Cabbage Rolls
1 medium head cabbage
1/4 cup rice
1 cup water
1 cup milk substitute
1/2 pound ground beef
1/2 pound ground pork
1 egg (replacer)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons GFCF butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1/2 cup milk substitute or GFCF cream
Flour (GFCG)
Salt and pepper to taste

Place cabbage in boiling salt water, after cutting out core of cabbage from underside. Cook until leaves separate with easily but are not to soft. Drain and bring the cup of water to boil add rice simmer until all water has evaporated. Add milk and cook until rice is tender. Stir occasionally. After cooking, mix with the next five ingredients. Fill each cabbage leaf with some of the mixture. Roll and fasten with a toothpick.
Heat butter in skillet. Brown cabbage rolls on all sides. Sprinkle with brown sugar, and put into a casserole dish. Add juices from skillet and a little water or stock. When serving, add cream and a little flour to the juices in the pan, add correct seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened. Cook in oven at 350 degrees for one hour.

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Genes Implicate Autism

>> Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Once again more research is being done on mice. Autism individuals are 25% more likely to have larger brains than normal. They have been researching on the PTEN and the serotonin transporter genes. Mutations in these two genes have been recognized in the potential link with autism. Very good researchers. Hope that it will take us farther into the research of a disease that affects so many. You may read up on the article here. Here are the words from Damon T. Page. Hope that you don't mind. Sometimes they can just explain it better. LOL

"We found that two genetic risk factors for ASDs act cooperatively in mice to influence brain size and social behavior, both of which are altered in ASDs," lead investigator Damon T. Page, a postdoctoral fellow at MIT's Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, said in an MIT news release.

"Our results provide evidence that the severity of autistic symptoms may be the product of variations in DNA in multiple locations in the genome," Page added.

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Treatment for Rett's Syndrome

I am not familiar with Rett's Syndrome just for starters, I do know that it also causes autism-like symptoms in girls as well as complications with their heart and breathing. However, I came across this article from US News that talks about a possible treatment. The article says that "Daily shots of the active fragment from a protein called insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) helped with movement and breathing irregularities." They are testing mice for now but say that this is the only "drug" that will help with breathing irregularities. Please read the article for more information on this new treatment. Also, there is information on Rett's Syndrome on their website at the very bottom of the page. All comments are welcome!

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ADHD Lollipops

Nothing is funner than candy, but with colors in everything these days, it is hard for a child with ADHD to avoid these so I found a lollipop recipe that will be fun even for them.

Lollipops
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
1/3 cup milk free margarine (optional; gives a butterscotch flavor)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon root beer flavoring or any other flavor allowed on the FD
40 lollipop sticks

boil sugar and water slowly until it reaches the boiling point. Add margarine and allow to melt. Boil until 310 degrees or until threads form when dipped from spoon (hard crack stage). Remove from heat and skim off top scum. Add vanilla and root beer flavoring. Stir to mix well. Place sticks on aluminum foil and pour candy from a spoon onto the sticks being careful not to run candy together. Pour quickly or candy will harden in pan. Reheat to melt if needed.

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ADHD and Food Coloring Bill...Maryland

Finally everything that I have learned over the last several months is finally getting through. Maryland will probably be the first state to have warning labels on products that contain food colorings. YES!!! Hope that other states will follow. The FDA has looked at past studies on ADHD and food colorings. You can read the article here.

I know that many will be proud especially Jane Hersey from the Feingold Program since this is exactly what the diet consists of...the removal of food colorings and additives. I have seen changes in my boys behavior since the removal of unwanted colors and flavors. This is just so much exciting news to be able to talk about. Now maybe the word will spread, and more bills will be introduced. Hope that it will become a nationwide action, but would be better if they would also just ban them completely. What do you think?

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Tupelo, MS Autism Meeting

There will be an autism meeting in Tupelo, MS on February 12, 2009. Laura Corby, founder of the Autism Solutions Center in Cordova, TN will be the speaker for the meeting. Her website is located here. The meeting will take place at the Lee. County Public Library at 6:00pm. I hope that those in our area will come and join us for this wonderful speaker.

There are lots of towns that now have autism meetings. Tupelo started theirs about a year ago by the boys therapist at school. I am happy to know her and glad that she has taken up the effort to keep it going. She is a very special person to our family, so I congratulate her on such a job well done.

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Changing Rules of Book Contest For "Rex"

Dear Readers, Due to no entries for a post for a free book, I am changing the rules of the contest in order to be absolutely sure that someone will receive it. I will also extend the time until March 21, 2009 for your convenience. Over on the right side of my blog is a comment counter. It will keep track of who has the most comments from a specific person. Now is your chance to catch up so start giving comments (one per post) in a race to beat the clock. Sounds like a lot of fun to me. Our leader for today is Melissa with 7 comments. Congratulations! By the way, please make your comments worthwhile or delete may be of order. I hope not though. I am looking for real stuff here and not just a bunch of hello's; my shout mix and yahoo pingbox takes care of the chatting for me. I am looking for value and well thought out comments. Thank you and have a wonderful day reading and commenting. Hope somebody will make this a true challenge for others. GOOD LUCK TO ALL.

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Breakfast Time for ADHD

>> Monday, February 9, 2009

Rice Flour Muffins
1 cup rice flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons shortening
1/2 cup apple juice (no preservatives)
Combine dry ingredients and cut in fat. Add juice to dry ingredients and fold together for about 2 minutes. Form into small patties, and place in greased muffin pan. Set aside for 10 minutes to rise. Bake at 400 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes.

Homemade Syrup
Heat one cup water to boiling point, lower heat and add 2 cups brown sugar. Stir until completely dissolved. If you have pure maple syrup available, you can add a little for extra flavor, but it is not necessary. Pour into storage jar to keep in the fridge. Makes one pint.

Potato Pancakes
4 large potatoes, grated coarsely
2 eggs
1/2 onion, finely grated
1/4 cup flour
1 teaspoon salt
Add eggs to grated potatoes, and onions and stir until blended. Add flour and salt. Use large tablespoon to measure pancake and fry in skillet with and desired cooking fat.

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Seeing Color Through Music Is A Genetic Link

I ran across an article today that is talking about synesthesia and the link to autism and a photographic memory. People use synesthesia to memorize numbers, notes, etc., creating exceptional intellectual ability. This is another way that autism individuals actually learn. You can read more about the study that Julian Asher conducted about the link between the two from this CNN story. It's just one more way to say that genetics have something to do with autism's way of functioning in children and in adults. Hope that you enjoy this article.

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Dr. Ben F. Feingold Book Quote

While I was reading "Why Your Child Is Hyperactive," By: Dr. Ben F. Feingold, I thought that a few quotes would be great for my blog. Mr. Feingold was a very smart man that had a hunch and wasn't going to give up until he was able to scientifically prove that the Feingold Diet is the ADHD diet. He wanted the scientific data and research to prove his theory that additives are harmful to our bodies, causing adverse reactions to chemicals in modern technology way of providing us with necessary things in order to survive.

" By now I was positive that no serious consideration, in cause and effect, diagnosis and treatment of the H-LD, had been given to environmental factors such as additives. Everything from toxemia and drugs during pregnancy; asphyxia, and JAUNDICE AT BIRTH; brain damage during delivery, genetic variations; retarded development of the nervous system, endocrine disturbances had been offered potential causes." Ben F Fengold 1975 Random House Publishers.

I made jaundice at birth in big shout out letters because my oldest was jaundice at birth. Could the dyes that the mother ingest while pregnant be causing jaundice? Several months ago. I was wondering if there was and autism and jaundice connection...maybe I have now found my answer to why. An H-LD is basically a child with ADHD. This book is so wonderful if you like to read stories on how research and a hunch comes alive.

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Andrew Wakefield fixed autism data on vaccines

>> Sunday, February 8, 2009

Andrew Wakefield is the man who started the scare of MMR shots causing autism. It has been found that he lied about his findings, by changing what he had found. Confidential medical documents and interviews with witnesses have established that Andrew Wakefield manipulated patients’ data, which triggered fears that the MMR triple vaccine to protect against measles, mumps and rubella was linked to the condition.
Last week official figures showed that 1,348 confirmed cases of measles in England and Wales were reported last year, compared with 56 in 1998. Two children have died of the disease. All just because this man decides he will change information on findings creating the MMR scare of autism. This was reported by TimesOnline and The Discovery Magazine.
It is a shame that someone would alter their findings on autism for any reason, and this is one of the worst since there are lots of families who believe that MMR vaccines do cause autism. We all have our own beliefs, but what this doctor has done was just the icing on the cake.

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ADHD Applesauce Cake (FD) Recipe

Using recipes for ADHD are accompanied by the Feingold Diet. Taking out the colors, flavorings, and other additives. However, that doesn't mean that it is GFCF as well. You maybe able to take these recipes and make them into GFCF if you are able to add the extra ingredients to make the food turn out right. Certain ingredtients are added to GFCF recipes in order to stabilize the foods itself e.g. xanthan gum, flours, and so on.

Applesauce Cake for ADHD
1/2 cup margarine (GFCF to avoid additives to margarine)
1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cup applesauce
2 1/2 cups rice flour (GFCF flour)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon soda

Cream together sugar and margarine, add applesauce. Sift remaining ingredients, and stir into batter. Mix well and pour into a greased 8-in. square pan or muffin tin. Bake at 325 degrees for 40 minutes for the cake, and at 325 degrees for 25 minutes for the cupcakes. cool in pan for 5 minutes.

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Autism Votes...Mississippi's latest on legislation

>> Saturday, February 7, 2009

In my search for knowledge, I have suddenly become interested in what is going on in the politics of autism within my state and in the government in Washington. I came across Autism Votes .
It is a part of Autism Speaks. There is a list of states that you can choose from to find out what is going on in your state legislator. They have top news stories from around America, and what is going on at Capital Hill. A wonderful place to get started in the "laws" around autism.

Here is the latest on Mississippi:

Summary of Mississippi Legislation

House Bill 720 - Sponsored by State Representative Noal Akins (R-12)

  • Requires private health insurance companies to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorder

  • Coverage will be provided to individuals under the age of 21

  • Coverage under this bill is subject to an inflation adjusted maximum benefit of $50,000 annually

  • Coverage of treatments will be provided when prescribed, provided, or ordered for an individual diagnosed with autism by a licensed physician or a licensed psychologist who determines the care to be medically necessary

  • The bill includes coverage of the following treatments: Diagnosis, Habilitative or rehabilitative care, Pharmacy care, Psychiatric care, Psychological care, Therapeutic care, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

  • The bill defines "medically necessary" as any care, treatment, intervention, service, or item that is prescribed, provided, or ordered by a licensed physician or a licenses psychologist that will, or is reasonably expected to
    • prevent the onset of an illness, condition, injury, or disability;
    • reduce or ameliorate the physical, mental, or developmental effects of an illness, condition, injury, or disability; or
    • assist to achieve or maintain maximum functional capacity in performing daily activities, taking into account both the functional capacity of the individual and the functional capacities that are appropriate for individuals of the same age

  • The bill applies only to fully-funded health plans governed by state and to the state and school employees health insurance plan

  • If passed, this bill will take effect on October 1, 2009

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Do You Homeschool Some parents refuse public schools

First of all my two boys are going to public schools. They always have, because they luckily have been able to go with out to much confrontation on their ability to stay in class. We have had behavior issues with my oldest for the first two years of school, but after that he has been great. I admit that he has a few bad days because of being oversensitive some days. It just doesn't cause an everyday problem with him like some would. Lisa Jo Rudy explains why she will never go back to public schools ever again in this article.

Struggling with the IEP's are difficult, and I've never had a problem doing ours. I know the teachers very well, but may see problems down the road when they do reach middle school. They are still young, and behaviors change over time. For now, I just have to keep that candy away from them at school. They are always giving it to my youngest just for being good that day. I'm gonna hate to find out what they are having for Valentine's Day. I just can't have them loaded up on sugar. Needing to add the Feingold Diet to their IEP's next time that we meet.

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Online Baby Gifts & Clothes

>> Friday, February 6, 2009

Are you having a baby soon, or know someone that is? My best friend is having a little girl before to long and my step sister just had her baby a few months ago, so I know that they will love this website that I found for all of their cute little clothes, gift sets, and so much more; even toys are available. 
Unique Baby Clothes have a wonderful selection of three month old to twenty-four month old clothing that are just absolutely adorable for little boys and girls that are just arriving to our wonderful world. There are just to many to choose from to really decide on a favorite. We all love baby clothes don't we!! 

Unique Baby Gift is also wonderful. They have personalized gifts for twins, organic baby clothing, and gift baskets. This is the perfect place for the baby shower that you have been waiting to buy a gift for. You can also get gift certificates if you just absolutely cannot decide on what to get because there are so many great ideas that you can have while shopping here. Hope you will find what you are looking for and that your shopping experience is pleasant. So go shopping for your Baby Clothing here.

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Fragile X Granule and Autism Link

Looking through my Google alerts, I came across something astonishing. The Fragile X granule and autism could be linked. Justin Fallon professor of neuroscience at Brown University discovered that there was something in the brain that could lead to future autism and mental retardation treatments. You can read the article here from Medical News Today.

The explanation of how his research seems very logical is explained through the article. Now maybe for once we may have something to go on. Very interesting so get on over there and read the story. Leave a comment on what you think about this article below. I will reply on your answer my fellow readers. Thanks again for reading and I hope that you will find this article of use to you.

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MEGA Games

>> Thursday, February 5, 2009

I found a new place for the boys to play some really cool games.MEGA Brands Kids Zone
has a game that I know they will love to play. They love Magnetics and there is a game that they can play online without dragging out the magnetics at home. It is much funner to play on the computer. And less time consuming. The boys love how the games control so I tested it out on them. They said that this was the funnest place to play ever.This is now one of our family favorite places to come and play games that we know are safe. There are also lots of other games there and even a place for them to draw. Contests are up and you can even get free wallpapers and go shopping. So if you have kids in the house especially boys, then they will love coming over here to play. We sure do.
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Wendy Portillo is expected to testify Tuesday.

Keeping up as always, here is Wendy Portillo who allowed an Asperger's child to be voted out by the students. She is serving one years suspension without pay. She has decided to appeal that decision on Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2009. She admits that she did wrong, but now it is time for justice for the little boy whose teacher mad a bad decision. The MSNBC article tells all. Guess we will see what will happen. We just have to pay for the mistakes that we make in life, and learn from what we have done as human beings. Live, Grow, and Learn.

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GFCF Spaghetti & Meatballs

Having spaghetti and meatballs for dinner, then try this recipe....

Use rice noodles for spaghetti.

Meatballs
1 small yellow onion
1 slice gluten-free rice bread
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon oregano (read expiration date on bottle) only good for a year
2 jars GFCF pasta sauce 26 oz. each
1 lbs GF spaghetti
ground beef

Put onion in a food processor an mince. Add bread, water, salt, and oregano and mix again. Pour mixture into mixing bowl. Knead by hand together with ground beef until thoroughly mixed. Shape into desired meatball size. Put meatballs into a slow cooker, and add spaghetti sauce. Cook for 4 hours. Sprinkle pasta with extra virgin olive oil.

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Updates

Guess I'll do an update on us for now. My family reads my blog so I'll throw these in there from time to time. I went to the dentist three days ago, to have my wisdom tooth pulled. It actually felt good to get it out. I am having the rest done soon after I get these kidneys looked at again. I will be going to the eye doctor tomorrow so I'll be back in glasses again. Oh boy I hate those things, but I gotta see right? I am also planning on being checked for rheumatoid arthritis, because of the joints that I do have are very painful. The Feingold Diet help with that though. Guess that is all with me.
Little Ed is behaving much better after I had changed his medicine up so that he could take it. Instead of giving him the capsule, I mixed the ingredients in water to avoid the dyes....it's been a miracle for him and his behavior. Dev is on his meds now and I do his the same way. They are now behaving much better and not having to be tried to disciplined every 2 seconds. Husband is still in college working on computer programming. He will graduate in 2010. I am very prod of him maintaining a 4.0 GPA since he has started college. Good luck dear and hope that your dreams come true. Guess that covers everything for now.

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Working Safely with Hartman Thomas


Do you have working conditions like these? Then maybe you need to try Hartman Thomas. They are a national risk management company from Australian specializing in health and safety, workers compensation, and emergency management for businesses. At Hartman Thomas they offer a range of cost-effective health and safety services delivered by qualified and experienced professionals. They are all about health and safety.
Their OHA, occupational health and safety audits, measures your business' health and safety regulations to determine your level of compliance in the workplace relevant to legislation, Codes of Practice, or Standards. So before something happens to your business get yourself some peace of mind and submit your company to make sure that they are going by the OHA audit requirements.

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