My Dad

Even though my Dad was in his early 50's when I was born(I'm the oldest of four!), he never let his age restrict his involvement with our family. We always did so many things together like having picnics at the park and beach or going to the museum, aquarium and zoo. My Dad even took us rollerskating and ice skating on a regular basis-all while he was in his 60's!

Every summer we would take our annual trip to Disneyland with a side trip to either Magic Mountain, Universal Studios or Knott's Berry Farm. Now none of this seems that extraordinary; in fact, any dad could do any of these things. What amazes me, though, is that my Dad found a way to make all these things happen for us four children on a very strict budget. He not only provided what we needed, but went above and beyond in the recreation department while on a modest pension and Social Security benefits.

The most heartwarming part for me, by far, is that my Dad took the time to understand what was special to each one of his children. He knew that I had a passion for horses and would literally go out of his way for me to just see a horse. He made sure each year while in Los Angeles that I was able to ride a horse in Griffith Park. He would take me to local stables to visit horses. He would even go as far as to call up private owners of ponies and miniature horses and arrange for me to see their horses. We would sometimes drive for hours so I could enjoy these experiences. Yet, my Dad never once complained; he just seemed happy to see me happy.

At times when other people would think my Dad was our grandpa, he wouldn't let that phase him. Instead, he would use that as an opportunity to tell one of his corny jokes. They may have been corny, but even now I find myself telling those same jokes to my boys. My childhood was never boring since my Dad kept things fun and exciting.

As his 90th birthday recently passed, my Dad is still the same man I've always known-warm, funny and genuine. Everyone loves to be around him and can't wait to hear his next story. Did I mention he's an awesome storyteller? Anyway, I thought my Dad is well-deserving of a "Job well done!" since he's had such an impact on not only my life, but countless others. Thanks, Dad...I can't imagine my childhood any better than it was. I only hope I have and will continue to create such memories for my boys.

Toxic Lessons

Several days ago, I watched a program entitled "Toxic Childhood" on CNN with Dr. Sanjay Gupta. It actually aired in the beginning of June, but through the magic of DVR I watched at my convenience. I'm glad I took the time to watch it because it really opened my eyes to all of the hazards that face our families; hazards that we don't normally think of or may not even know how to pronounce. Chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, PFOA, formaldehyde and PBDE are found almost everywhere yet they're linked to health concerns such as cancer, sexual problems, behavioral issues and weakened immune systems.

I haven't turned into a closet scientist or even a tree hugger, but I don't believe ignorance is bliss either. Although we can't possibly protect ourselves from everything out there, especially the things that are out of our control, we can still do the research necessary to be well-informed. Only then can we make the best decisions possible for ourselves and our families.

What are some facts I should know?

*Newborns have been exposed to over 200 chemicals in the womb.

*Only 200 out of 80, 000 known chemicals have been tested for safety.

*The standard for testing is based upon a 150 pound male so the findings are even worse for babies and young children.

*BPA is found in water bottles, baby bottles and even dental sealants. It's linked to reproductive problems, obesity, diabetes and cancer.

*Phthalates are found in personal care products, perfume, air fresheners, shower curtains and food packaging. They are linked to ADHD, male reproductive development and endocrine disruption.

*PFOAs are found in nonstick cookware, stain-repellent coatings, furniture and carpet. They're linked to cancer and developmental problems.

*Formaldehyde is found in personal care products, pressed wood products, glue and cigarette smoke. It's linked to nausea, skin irritations and respiratory and gastrointestinal cancers.

*PBDEs are found in televisions, computers, wire insulation and furniture foam. They are linked to liver and kidney damage as well as affecting the brain and behavior.

So, I'm informed....now what do I do? There are many things we can personally do to protect ourselves. Some are easy and affordable while others require a bit more effort and can be an added expense. The following are some ideas, but ultimately you need to decide what's right for you and your family:

1) Take your shoes off at the door; pesticides, fertilizers and workplace chemicals can all be tracked unknowingly into your home. This is especially of concern if you have young children who spend a lot of time on the floor.

2) Instead of non-stick cookware choose to use stainless steel or cast iron.

3) Buy organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible. As an alternative, wash and peel before eating for a simpler solution. (See Dr. Gupta's lists of The Dirty Dozen and The Clean 15)

4) Use a carbon filter pitcher for your drinking water to remove lead, chlorine and bacteria.

5) Buy meat and dairy products that do not have antibiotics or growth hormones.

6) Use glass instead of plastic to store food. If you do use plastic, be sure the number 7 is not on the bottom. This would indicate BPA.

7) Add houseplants to your home. They help to remove up to 90% of the toxins from the air.

8) Regularly dust and open your windows for ventilation. Inside air is 2 to 5 times more polluted than outside air due to to the formaldehyde in our furniture, carpets and drapes.

So, like I mentioned, these are just some ideas for you to consider. Making some or all of these changes to our daily routines can have very positive benefits. Some may think the ideas are laughable or unnecessary while others will not hesitate to do all they can. Whatever you choose, you may want to ask yourself, "How safe is my home?"

Just Getting Started

Finally, a thought has become my reality. I've officially decided to open up my own family daycare.....Christina's Corner. There's so much to do and plenty of time to do it! Since I'm a stay-at-home mom, I have the luxury of getting everything ready without the hassle of working outside the home at the same time. Don't get me wrong! I do work....just at home! I already own a home-based referral business. I truly enjoy helping other families create safer and healthier homes by means of a simple shopping decision. It has become my passion to live a healthy, chemical-free life.

However, I have another passion. Ever since I entered the daycare industry nearly 20 years ago, I quickly realized how much fun it is to be around children. They have so much energy that you have no choice but to keep up with them. They definitely keep you young!

Although I've always said I would never have a daycare in my own home(especially since I grew up with one), I've had to readjust my thinking. Opening my own center involves a lot of time, energy and money. I've got the time and energy covered, but I'm lacking just a bit in the revenue department. It's certainly not that a modest center couldn't be opened fairly easily; it's just that I have a vision of what I believe would be an ideal center. Now that requires some serious moola!

I want whatever I do to be done well and done right. There are no shortcuts with me. So my "vision" is going to be scaled back in order to get this whole thing started. If that means starting in my home, then so be it. And trust me...we're just getting started!

Distracted Driving

Everyone has distractions throughout their day. Some are more important than others. Many, though, are simply time wasters for us. So, if given the choice to chit chat while driving, texting what you just ate to your bff (also while driving) OR actually paying attention to the road...what would you choose?

Sadly, many of us don't think twice about a quick chat or text while we're driving. Even more sad is that too many of us have created an extension of our offices directly into our vehicles. Laptops are open, cell phones are in constant use and texts are sent back and forth. It seems like drivers are doing everything else.....except driving! I don't know about you, but I think I have enough distractions between the radio, the boys' dvd players or playing referee to a backseat brawl. Do I really need to add my phone to the list?

A distracted driver has crossed my path on more than one occasion. Thankfully, I wasn't seriously hurt but I did have to deal with the consequences afterward. The first time I was simply waiting for a car to pass me by as I backed out of a driveway. I saw the car coming, stopped backing out and waited. I was still stopped in the driveway when the driver veered onto the sidewalk and hit me. I was completely caught off guard as she rammed into me. How could she not see me? Turns out she was on her cell phone and drifted onto the sidewalk. Only problem is that since I was the one in reverse, I was charged with the accident.....even though I was not in motion. Not only did I have to deal with a banged up car, but my rates went up and I had a ding on my record. Life is definitely not fair!

The second distracted driver entered my life as I slowed down for an approaching ambulance. The three drivers behind me followed suit, but the fourth guy was a bit busy answering a call. Imagine that. Fortunately, my truck only sustained some minor damage to the bumper. That fourth guy wasn't so fortunate. He totaled his brand new Mercedes. I hope that call was really important!

My reason for sharing this is not to amuse you, but to inform. You may already be aware of Oprah's campaign to STOP talking/texting while driving. Or maybe you're not. Either way, I feel like I need to get the word out further to prevent any future accidents from happening. In my case, no one was physically harmed...only the vehicles.

For many others, though, the outcome hasn't been so good. Oprah shared a few of their heart wrenching stories a couple of months ago when she launched her campaign. We all have family and friends that we care for. No one should ever be just a statistic.

I know that many think that Oprah's asking too much of them. Completely stop talking, texting or emailing while I'm driving? Oh, the horror! To pacify these type of people she revised her pledge form. You can now agree to stop all of the above in increments or all at once. You decide. The point is we all need to do something, whether it be a little or a lot. You never know who's life you'll be saving. It could be your very own.