Hey there summer time. How are things going with you, dear readers?
Well. I have had a productive summer, as far as figuring out my new normal and understanding and accepting the "why me, why us" that pelts me in the head every now and again. I shouldn't say I understand, because I don't. Not one bit of me can throw reason out to the last three years of my life. However, I do believe what I can do is face forward and try to make the most of the days in my future.
Do you guys remember my issue with food, products, ingredients, etc. that was rocking my world. I was a big bag of worry as anyone did anything. Sounds like a blast, right?! What was touched and how fast could we be sanitized, did I read the label, how much sugar? I will stop there because it is so daunting that it makes my head hurt. When we met with other parents in sessions at Camp Sunshine , this all came up. I had not spoken up much in group because I play more of the listening role in that format, but I knew I had to figure out if this is part of the process or if I was taking my own twisty turn.
Turns out that some other families questioned this same lifestyle journey, but the lady with all the degrees and wisdom put it out there in a way that clicked with me. Control. What did I lose (or think I lost) when my babies got sick? Control. I could not fix the scans or blood work, so I made up the scene that I could fuss and obsess over, which was sunscreen, food, lotions, shampoos, and, and, and. I knew right then and there that I needed to pick my biggest concerns, find my right options and be at peace with my decisions. So, this is what I came up with :
* The dirty dozen food items mostly hit with pesticides (This is where I go organic and get the most bang out of my buck)
* I have always been a little picky over meats, but I continue this trend.
*Sugar watch. I try to keep it in check with snacks, bars, etc.
* Dyes - I try to cut them out of our foods. They are a big point of science that people seem to agree on as being carcinogenic. I don't go nuts over it, but I definitely watch for them. (example: red40)
* Filtered water - I bought a huge filter pitcher and just make sure to drink and cook with this water. We have had all sorts of water issues in North Texas. I even had a salesman for a house system (filter) and he showed us the water junk from tap water. We obviously couldn't take on the big chunk of change, but the visual was pretty nasty! SO, I went to what works for now!
* Cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, hand soap and shampoos were all swapped for Pure and Gentle Brand. Apparently the original founder of Procter and Gamble didn't like when the company started using crazy chemicals way back when, so he started his own clean company. I ordered this all online and have been pleased with what we are using.
* I try to use the Think Dirty App when I buy products, but it makes me a little crazed. I use this only when I am feeling the brain power for now. It makes my head spin a little!
There you have it. My list of what I focus on for now. I am trying to make all of this a habit. A way of life, so I have stopped for now for a brain break. I have to believe my family is in good hands with this and be at peace with my baby steps. I strive for balance, and I need to let go some and enjoy that life I am so wound up about. Camp truly helped me figure some of it out and I am forever grateful.
I thought I would share my progress because I am a little proud of myself. :) Pat yourself on the back when you can, people! I am proud of you guys for stopping by. I appreciate you all.
Go Find the sunshine, you hear?!
Until Next Time.
- Jenn
