The Unmagnificent Lives of Adults

Balance: a fanmix

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 04:29:24 GMT

This is the fanmix for "Balance", greenglowsgold's fic for the puckurtbigbang

Download the Balance fanmix here.

Till The Sun Breaks Down (a fanmix)

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 02:15:24 GMT

This is the fanmix I made for one of my favorite fics ever, poetikat's Till the Sun Breaks Down.

01. Help I'm Alive -- Metric [Opening Theme]

I tremble
They're going to eat me alive
If I stumble
They're going to eat me alive
Can you hear my heart beating like a hammer?

02. Pet -- A Perfect Circle [You Are Now Leaving Lima, Ohio; Population 0]

Lay your head down child
I won't let the boogeyman come
Countin' bodies like sheep
To the rhythm of the war drums
Pay no mind to the rabble

03. Army of Me -- Bjork [Santana's Theme]

stand up
you've got to manage
i won't sympathize
anymore
and if you complain once more
you'll meet an army of me

04. Running Up that Hill -- Placebo [Kurt's Theme]

It doesn't hurt me.
You wanna feel how it feels?
You wanna know, know that it doesn't hurt me?
You wanna hear about the deal I'm making?

05. Terrible Love (Alternate Version) -- The National [Dave's Theme]

It takes an ocean not to break
It takes an ocean not to break
It takes an ocean not to break

It's quiet company

06. Prayers for Rain -- The Cure [Sailing to France]

drearily and tired the hours all spent on killing
time again all waiting for the rain

07. Grapevine Fires -- Deathcab for Cutie [The Rescue]

And we watched the plumes paint the sky gray
And she laughed and danced through the field of graves
There I knew it would be alright
That everything would be alright

08. Help I'm Alive (STYTE DUBSTEP REMIX) -- Metric/Styte [Closing Credits]
If you're still alive
My regrets are few
If my life is mine
What shouldn't I do?
I get wherever I'm going
I get whatever I need
While my blood's still flowing
And my heart still beats . . .

Download all tracks + cover art

My muffin top is all that

Sat, 16 Apr 2011 22:12:48 GMT

I'm now 1/3 of the way through 30 Day Shred. I knew it was making a difference, because I could see a little change in the mirror, BUT the big reality check came today when I saw a picture of myself from the Cesarean Awareness Rally.

Here are some decided unflattering, but probably pretty accurate pictures of me from Rosie's birthday on March 27th:

And here is a picture from today (almost 2 weeks in, 10 days of Shredding):

Can't see my chest area or anything, but I was amazed that my hips looked that much trimmer in a white t-shirt (which isn't exactly the most flattering of garments).

And just 'cause I love this pic, immediately post workout yesterday:

Way less fat around my face, noticeable difference around my hips, and today I discovered that my obliques actually go all the way up to my rib cage. As in, I seriously had no idea that muscle went that far! It's always either been fat or flab there before.

I really wish I'd taken proper before/after pictures, but the real proof is going to be in that god-forsaken green satin dress. Planning on sticking w/ 30 Day Shred, because it isn't time consuming and it's definitely doing something for me!

Vagina Meltdown is the name of my new rockband

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 03:09:00 GMT

This is irrelevant for most of you, but if you'd like to read the most ridiculous conversation about radiation and iodine ever, and how it's directly related to how natural birth advocates are bullies, here are the links to the screen caps:

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4

These will be our band t-shirts.

Hats are happiness

Sun, 02 Jan 2011 18:57:29 GMT

Starting out the year with nothing of significant note. All I really want to do is knit myself a slouchy sort of hat.

The yarn I'm using is this:

"Horton" on BFL by Bugsnugger (mine has the blue as the trim, not the pink, as is a little more vibrant)

I haven't learned to cable yet (that's a project for this year) and anyway, I think the yarn is too colorful to add much of a design to it.

View Poll: Help me choose a hat

Felicity

My Striped & Slouchy Hat

Minty (non-stripy variety)

Attention Babywearers!

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 18:40:08 GMT

Dear Babywearing Enthusiast:

It is time to BRACE YOURSELF!

A recall of a major baby carrier is being forced through this week. We want you to understand how this has been handled and to appreciate the immediacy of the problem!
Company was informed by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) that, after several years, a closed investigation of their product was being reopened.
Company was told by the CPSC to issue a recall of every product back more than ten years, and to discontinue sales, while admitting that there is no product flaw.
Company stopped all sales, with the intention of clearing up the matter and reopening shortly.
Company asked for the Health and Science report that the CPSC later claimed to have, indicating the need for a recall.
CPSC has NEVER complied; inside word is that there is NOT a Health and Science report.
Company was sent two draft press releases and asked to voluntarily recall their product or the CPSC would issue a unilateral recall (a forced recall) which included inflammatory language as well as a threat to pursue action against entire class of baby sling products.
Company held fast, knowing that the product is safe and a benefit to babies and stated they would be willing to work with the CPSC on a public education campaign about sling safety.
CPSC asked for Company’s financials.
Company complied.
CPSC said to company “You are no longer in business, we don’t need your cooperation in order to recall! Prepare to DESTROY all product next week!” Next week is International Babywearing week!

PLEASE NOTE: *THIS IS AFTER THE CPSC FORCED COMPANY TO STOP SELLING!

The CPSC has overstepped their bounds, and are bullying small, family businesses who make safe products!

This is only the beginning, according to the CPSC’s own words they want to eradicate the whole class of product!

A line has been drawn in the sand! Will you help fight the good fight with us? If you care that these products are available to you, to babies, to families across our country, ACT NOW!

If you are represented by any one of these legislators, please call and write to them NOW, before this recall happens. We are asking just a few simple things:

1. Stop all recall actions against baby sling companies until
2. We can finalize the ASTM voluntary sling standards (scheduled for November) and
3. Force the CPSC to follow their own internal procedures, stop using bullying tactics, and use sound science.

SENATE: Mark Pryor – Chairman, AR (202) 224-2353
Byron L. Dorgan, ND (202) 224-2551
Barbara Boxer, CA (202) 224-3553
Bill Nelson, FL (202) 224-5274
Claire McCaskill, MO (202) 224-6154
Amy Klobuchar, MN (202) 224-3244
Tom Udall, NM (202) 224-5941
Roger Wicker – Ranking Member, MS (202) 224-6253
Olympia J. Snowe, ME (202) 224-5344
Jim DeMint, SC (202) 224-6121
John Thune, SD (202) 224-2321
Johnny Isakson, GA (202) 224-3643
David Vitter, LA (202) 224-4623

HOUSE: Bobby L. Rush, IL, Chairman 202-225-4372; 773-224-6500
Jan Schakowsky, IL, Vice Chair 202-225-2111; 773-506-7100
Ed Whitfield, KY, Ranking Member 202-225-3115; 270-885-8079
John P. Sarbanes, MD 202-225-4016; 410-832-8890
George Radanovich, CA 202-225-4540; 559-449-2490
Betty Sutton, OH 202-225-2266; 330-865-8450
Cliff Stearns, FL 202-225-5744; 352-351-8777
Frank Pallone, Jr., NJ 202-225-4671; 732-571-1140
Joseph R. Pitts, PA 202-225-2411; 717-303-0667
Bart Gordon, TN 202-225-4231; 615-896-1986
Mary Bono Mack, CA 202-225-5330; 760-320-1076
Bart Stupak, MI 202-225-4735; 231-348-0657
Lee Terry, NE 202-225-4155; 402-397-9944
Gene Green, TX 202-225-1688; 281-999-5879
Sue Wilkins Myrick, NC 202-225-1976; 704-362-1060
Charles A. Gonzalez, TX 202-225-3236; 210-472-6195
Tim Murphy, PA 202-225-2301; 412-344-5583
Anthony D. Weiner, NY 202-225-6616; 718-520-9001
Phil Gingrey, GA 202-225-2931; 770-429-1776
Jim Matheson, UT 202-225-3011; 801-486-1236
Steve Scalise, LA 202-225-3015; 504-837-1259
G. K. Butterfield, NC 202-225-3101; 252-237-9816
Robert E. Latta, OH 202-225-6405; 419-668-0206
John Barrow, GA 202-225-2823; 912-354-7282
Joe Barton, TX 202-225-2002; 817-543-1000

-------------------------------
*****SAMPLES*****

Here is a sample letter. Please feel free to edit it and make it more personal to your situation. For example, if you are a business owner in the industry, let them know how a recall will affect you. If you are an educator, let them know how you help. Give them a personal story. Whatever it takes!

Dear _______,

I am writing as a concerned parent about the broad and overzealous scope of many of the recent CPSC recalls. In particular, I’ve learned that the CPSC is threatening a unilateral recall action against a reputable brand of baby sling.

I am appealing to you, as a member of the The Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance.Today, I am asking that:1) all baby sling recall actions be stopped immediately; 2) the ASTM sling carrier standard should be voted on so that sling carriers may be tested for this safety standard;3) the CPSC be forced to follow their own internal procedures of due course, rather than using scare tactics and bullying to intimidate reputable, responsible companies.

I am aware that this particular product was in use at the time of death of an infant in one case in 2005. This incident was fully investigated by the CPSC and the company was told, in 2007, that the product was not at fault. In early 2010, this case was reopened despite no new evidence. The company was bullied into closure by the CPSC. No testing or report showing evidence of a defect has been made available to the company. The CPSC is now using the fact that the company is closed to issue the unilateral recall, despite lacking the science and statistics that would be the norm for this agency. At this time, there are indications of many more baby carrier recalls to come, including CPSC language that indicates that they are considering action against this "entire class of product".

Recalling this particular product, and potentially this "entire class of product", will have a decidedly negative impact on parents all over the United States. Babywearing is a practice that has proven health benefits for both babies and their caregivers, and is an essential part of parenting for millions of people across the country and worldwide. The CPSC is attempting to drastically limit a personal parenting choice through this unnecessary recall. Please consider the Baby Carrier Industry Alliance’s Position Paper (http://babycarrierindustryalliance.memberlodge.org/Resources/Documents/bcia_white_paper.pdf) as scientific evidence of both the necessity and the safety of baby carriers.

There is a strong network of babywearing safety advocates and volunteer groups throughout the nation whose mission is to teach caregivers how to use their baby carriers safely and effectively. Baby carriers are absolutely safe; perhaps even safer than many other baby care devices such as swings and car seats. Additionally, ASTM International is set to vote on a voluntary standard for sling carriers this very week. This standard is the result of 3 years of hard work by consumer advocates, manufacturers, and members of the CPSC's own staff.

The recent light shown on the tactics taken by the CPSC is shocking. Bullying small family-owned business to get the outcome they desire should not be how the US Government does business. I ask you to stop this recall, look into the actions of the CPSC, and consider allowing the voluntary standards process to be completed. I hope we can count on you.

Thank you for your consideration.

Best,

-------------------------------------

Here is a sample telephone script:

"I'd urge [legislator's name] to review the process by which the CPSC works. Not only are they targeting an industry that is dear to me [that supports my family, insert relevant phrase], they are doing it using bullying tactics rather than science or due process. This is not how I want my tax dollars used. I urgently ask [legislator] to pressure the CPSC to stop of delay this recall until the commerce committee can review the process and ensure it is just. If this recall is allowed to proceed it will make a farce of the entire recall process."

If the reps or their representatives are interested, you can outline the issues in greater detail as explained in "Brace Yourself". The issue is bigger than babywearing. The CPSC is out of line all over the place.

I called and spoke with two incredibly bored-sounding staffers at Senator Isakson's and Congressman Gingrey's offices. I also emailed. You can email Congressman Phil Gingrey and Senator Johnny Isakson through their websites.

Not Terrifying

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 22:20:34 GMT

theretohere says I'm scary* and that everyone on the internet is afraid of me, so I'd like to clear up the misconception that I am mean and terrifying.

Dear Denizens of the Internets,

I am not scary and will not make you cry.

Love,
Raving_Liberal

There, don't you feel better now?

*She doesn't really say that in seriousness.

I'm sure you're tired of hearing about this damn shrug...

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 21:15:26 GMT

But I'd like input on the edging. I originally planned to use the leftover yarn from the shorties, so it would be a little matching outfit. Now I'm wondering if I shouldn't do it all one color, to go with more things (not that the red/pink wouldn't match half her wardrobe). Both yarns can be seen worked up here.

Thoughts?

View Poll: Which trim?

Knitting

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 15:28:25 GMT

I love kfb increases. Knitting front and back is like a little dance, and makes such a cute little decoration for raglan sleeves.

I'm currently working on this seamless shrug for Rosie. I only cast on yesterday at around 2 or so, so I'm feeling pretty good about my progress by this morning.

The shrug will be trimmed w/ the same Rory on Lindon Merino as these shorties I finally, finally finished!

Please forgive the fuzziness. I didn't realize Donovan had touched my camera lens yet again. Also, this is pre-blocking!

North Metro Atlanta BOLD Red Tent

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 17:15:09 GMT

Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010
Time: 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Roberts School (Cafeteria)
Street: 4861 School Street, Acworth, GA 30101

The North Metro Birth and Breastfeeding Coalition (NMBBC) is proud to present its first BOLD Red Tent event. Please come out and join us for this day of sharing birth stories and a friendly meal together.

This baby/small child-friendly gathering of woman is intended to promote a sense of community and to encourage each other through pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. All women are welcome, whether they are already mothers, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, are interested in learning more about birth, are childbirth professionals/educators/advocates, or simply want to support the birthing women and mothers in their lives. Through opening a dialogue about childbirth, we hope that all women can become empowered to make the choices that are best for themselves and their babies.

The "price" of admission to this event is a potluck dish to share. Dishes of all kinds are welcome -- vegan/vegetarian or not, main or side dish, sweet or savory. Please be sure to label any containers or serving ware so they can be easily returned. Notecards will be provided on site so that you can let everyone know if your dish is vegan/vegetarian or allergen-free (dairy free, gluten free, etc.).

NMBBC will also be hosting a raffle of items and services relating to pregnancy, birth, and natural mothering, generous donated by area businesswomen and craftswomen. All proceeds from these raffles will go to the Pailes family, in support of Sonya Pailes's tireless efforts in the local childbirth community, even in the face of her family's recent, tragic loss. If you would like to donate and products or services to this raffle, please let us know. A list of our sponsors will be posted here and at the event, so attendees can become familiar with the kind and giving businesses in our area.

Please contact us in advance if possible so we can get an idea of how many are attending and what dishes will be available, but also do not be afraid to just show up at the door with a casserole and a smile!

We hope to see you all there.
morgan@mcfamilies.com

You can learn more about BOLD here: http://www.boldaction.org/redtent/index.html

Most Christmas Shopping Recommendations

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 19:36:19 GMT

Need last minute gifts, either stocking stuffers or the big "from Santa" present? Here are some (unsolicited, unsponsored *winkwink*) recommendations:

Want a Waldorf-style alternative to Barbie, Bratz, and other fashion dolls? This 11" ballerina doll might fit the bill. I love her hair! $60, stocking at 10pm today.

While I've never actually seen a child use a hobby horse in recent years, a felted wool Hobby Moose might be enticing (if pricey). $100, stocking at 10pm today.

Coffee ninja for the coffee-drinking grown up ninja in your life ($7, in stock) or boo boo ninja for the boo boo getting little ninja in your life ($10, in stock). Ninjas. Ninjas. Do I really need to say more?

Pretty and tough. What's not to like about a girly dinosaur? Auction, starting at $8, stocking at 9pm today.

For those who prefer an all-natural approach to art, try Busy Bee Natural Non-Toxic Bath Crayons ($7.50, in stock) or Beeswax Crayons ($9.50, in stock).

Don't forget to buy the knitters on your list some knitter's balm. $5.50, stocking tomorrow at 12pm.

My kids get socks and underwear in their stockings. If your child is persnickety about his/her underdrawers, these undies might appeal to his/her sensibilities. $7, stocking at 1pm tomorrow.

If your child like memory games, try these wooden memory card sets in different themes. $15, in stock.

For something a little different, maybe add some matryoshka finger puppets to the Christmas stocking. $14, in stock.

Waldorf dolls might not be your thing, but maybe knitted dolls are. Holly, the 12" knit doll is less expensive than a Waldorf doll, but adorable. $37,in stock.

Simplicity is "in." Rag dolls are making a comeback. This Plain Jane dolly would be easy to sew for to create a whole wardrobe of clothing. $40, in stock.

If I'm posting lots of dolls, I have to post this guy. Billy the Kid is an 18" Waldorf doll that comes dressed as a satyr. His horns, furry legs, feet, and beard are all removable, and he comes with a change of "normal" clothes. He would be a good doll for a child who is really into Percy Jackson and the Olympians. $175, in stock.

Does your child like trains? A wooden train with colorful wheels could play a starring role under your tree this year! $45, in stock.

I like Calvin the plush monster. He has personality. $22, in stock.

All of the wooden toys from Anne Moze All Wood Toys are beautiful, but I particularly love the farmer set ($40, in stock) and Hansel and Gretel set $60, in stock.

This wristlet camera case is a pretty gift for the photographer in your life. $12, in stock.

Ok, hopefully some of these suggestions are helpful in wrapping up your shopping. Good luck!

Breastfeeding moms needed

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:16:18 GMT

Army of Women is looking for 200 volunteers for a study of the breast cells normally found in breast milk to see if there are any differences in the DNA of women whose biopsies turn out to be healthy and those whose biopsies show a problem, such as cancer. The volunteers they need should be currently breastfeeding and have either had a breast biopsy at any time in the past or are scheduled to have a breast biopsy to diagnose a lump found in your breast. At this time, I believe the volunteers do have to be in the US (they have for previous studies of this nature), but it might be worth looking at if you're in Canada.

You'll be asked to fill out a survey and donate about 2.5 ounces of breastmilk from each breast. The study is being conducted by Kathleen Arcaro, PhD, Douglas Anderton, PhD, and Sarah Lenington PhD, at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts.

You should be able to sign up for the study by joining at their website (they don't spam, just send you information on occasional studies designed to find ways to eliminate causes of or to facilitate the early detection of breast cancer).

Holiday 2009 early shopping list

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:16:28 GMT

I was going to filter this to just the people who asked to see it, but screw it. I've barely been on LJ lately, but took the time to make this list, so y'all can all see it. Scroll on if you don't like to buy presents for small people. ;)

Here's my first set of recommendations for holiday gifts, mostly $20 and under, made by work-at-home parent-owned businesses. I don't work for, get kickbacks from, or in any way benefit from these recommendations other than the satisfaction of helping you find something cool.

Disclaimer: I haven't tried all these products myself, but have tried to indicate the ones I have.

Need play food for your play kitchen? Fair Trade Family's wool food is my favorite. This farmers market set in Peace Fleece is adorable, and check out this turkey dinner!

Rosie doesn't have enough hair to clip, but if you have a little one who does, check out this cute little owl clip.

Speaking of owls, I like this little rainbow Half Hootie (a small bamboo velour owl). He has a little blue friend if rainbows aren't your thing.

Sometimes a baby just needs to bite something. This Friday, you can snag a Bite Me Dino (they come in various prints), which serves as both a teether and a taggie-type toy for kids who like that additional sensory input.

If you prefer simple, wooden toys for your baby, this maple rattle might be a good stocking stuffer.

Speaking of teethers and wooden toys, here's a velour and wood gnome teether that looks like a nice first Christmas gift. We have a bamboo fleece/wooden bird teether from the same WAHM and it's so nice!

It's a freaking cute teddy bear hat. How much more flavor text do you need?

I-Spy bags are pretty much the coolest thing ever. I like the Whiffy See-Its best, but Donovan loves his police car I-spy bag from Closet on Queen Creek.

My very favorite WAHM business right now is Mommy's Busy. I'm even a fan on Facebook. She makes really cute soft rattles (Rosie is getting a whale and a starfish), dinosaurs and other creatures of various sizes (Donovan is getting a pillow-sized triceratops and a dragon), and games.

The sensory clutch balls from Bright Life Toys are one of my favorite things ever. I love multisensory toys! They also sell a plainer version of the clutch ball.

Weird funny little monkey doll thing, looks snuggly and is also discounted! I love a bargain.

If your kid doesn't already want to eat his playdough, you can get some deliciously pumpkin spice scented all natural playdough to encourage him to do so. Ok, maybe that's not a great selling point, but if you can't be bothered to make your own playdough and the commercial stuff squicks you out, Natural Madison's magic dough is supposed to be a nice alternative.

Donovan has always liked little bitty dolls. He still loves his tiny babies (Moondrop dolls) that he got two Christmases ago. This mini baby is a bit bigger, but still small enough to pocket.

Ok, that's probably enough stuff for round one. Get shopping!

Support a Woman's Right to Choose

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:39:25 GMT

40 Days for Life will be picketing Atlanta women's clinics, including the wonderful FWHC (www.feministcenter.org). The center provides a range of services, including fertility treatments, well-woman care, well-care for transmen, and abortion services.

If you support a woman's right to choose and to exercise that choice without harassment, you can help in the following ways: A donation to the clinic, food for employees who can't leave for lunch because it would mean going past the group outside (and we eat cookies and/or coffee for lunch!), volunteering at the clinic or outreach offices. NO counter-protests will be staged at FWHC.

Please spread the word on LJ, Twitter, FB, and anywhere else where people support choice and the people who help provide options for those choices.

(Another) study confirms homebirth's safety

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 19:45:12 GMT

Outcomes of planned home birth with registered midwife versus planned hospital birth with midwife or physician

Patricia A. Janssen PhD, Lee Saxell MA, Lesley A. Page PhD, Michael C. Klein MD,
Robert M. Liston MD, Shoo K. Lee MBBS PhD

Abstract

Background: Studies of planned home births attended by
registered midwives have been limited by incomplete
data, nonrepresentative sampling, inadequate statistical
power and the inability to exclude unplanned home
births. We compared the outcomes of planned home
births attended by midwives with those of planned hospital
births attended by midwives or physicians.

Methods: We included all planned home births attended
by registered midwives from Jan. 1, 2000, to Dec. 31, 2004,
in British Columbia, Canada (n = 2889), and all planned
hospital births meeting the eligibility requirements for
home birth that were attended by the same cohort of midwives
(n = 4752). We also included a matched sample of
physician-attended planned hospital births (n = 5331). The
primary outcome measure was perinatal mortality; secondary
outcomes were obstetric interventions and adverse
maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Results: The rate of perinatal death per 1000 births was
0.35 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.00–1.03) in the group
of planned home births; the rate in the group of planned
hospital births was 0.57 (95% CI 0.00–1.43) among women
attended by a midwife and 0.64 (95% CI 0.00–1.56) among
those attended by a physician. Women in the planned
home-birth group were significantly less likely than those
who planned a midwife-attended hospital birth to have
obstetric interventions (e.g., electronic fetal monitoring,
relative risk [RR] 0.32, 95% CI 0.29–0.36; assisted vaginal
delivery, RR 0.41, 95% 0.33–0.52) or adverse maternal outcomes
(e.g., third- or fourth-degree perineal tear, RR 0.41,
95% CI 0.28–0.59; postpartum hemorrhage, RR 0.62, 95%
CI 0.49–0.77). The findings were similar in the comparison
with physician-assisted hospital births. Newborns in the
home-birth group were less likely than those in the midwife-
attended hospital-birth group to require resuscitation
at birth (RR 0.23, 95% CI 0.14–0.37) or oxygen therapy
beyond 24 hours (RR 0.37, 95% CI 0.24–0.59). The findings
were similar in the comparison with newborns in the
physician-assisted hospital births; in addition, newborns in
the home-birth group were less likely to have meconium
aspiration (RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.21–0.93) and more likely to
be admitted to hospital or readmitted if born in hospital
(RR 1.39, 95% CI 1.09–1.85).

Interpretation: Planned home birth attended by a registered
midwife was associated with very low and comparable
rates of perinatal death and reduced rates of obstetric
interventions and other adverse perinatal outcomes compared
with planned hospital birth attended by a midwife
or physician.

Legality of Routine Infant Circumcision Under Review in Australia

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 23:10:43 GMT

Willy-nilly circumcision sparks legal fears for doctors

By Paul Carter, AAP
August 19, 2009 11:54am

LAWS protect girls from genital surgery but parents wanting to circumcise boys can "go around willy-nilly chopping up bits of their sons", a state children's commissioner says.
Tasmania's commissioner for children Paul Mason and the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute have embarked on what they say is the largest review into the legalities of male circumcision in Australia's history.

Mr Mason said a critical issue for any non-therapeutic circumcision is whether parental consent is sufficient to protect a surgeon from legal action if the child's genital autonomy is thought to have been infringed.

"The only thing that protects a doctor from an action for assault or a civil prosecution is the valid consent of the patient," he said.

"The law is getting pretty hazy about whether a parent can give a valid consent for a child's non-medical procedure."

Mr Mason said about 90 per cent of Australian male babies were circumcised in the 1970s, dropping to about two per cent these days.

Its infrequency nowadays only heightens the chance of a circumcised boy feeling aggrieved as an adult that his rights were ignored as a child, he said.

But High Court rulings and United Nations conventions on the rights of parents and children and legal consent in terms of bodily integrity argue against parental-consent circumcision, he said.

"To me they suggest parents are not entitled to cut or wound their children unless it is for a medical purpose," he said.

Mr Mason said another grey legal area was that many jurisdiction outlaw female genital alteration, not just the most severe form, because it infringed on girls' rights.

"But we have a situation where girls have legal protection from any surgery on their genitals but parents can go around willy-nilly chopping up bits of their boys.

"That is a discrimination any way you look at it," he said.

University of Tasmania circumcision-law researcher Warwick Marshall is working closely with Mr Mason and the Tasmanian Law Reform Institute review.

Mr Marshall says criminal and civil laws fail to provide adequate certainty for parents and doctors.

"The crux of the uncertainty is whether the consent of the parent of the child being circumcised provides the circumciser with protection from criminal and civil actions which may be brought against them for performing a circumcision," Mr Marshall said.

Public submissions to law reform review close on August 28.

Atlanta Medical Center's mother-baby separation policy

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:08:45 GMT

Atlanta Medical Center is currently beginning the process of trying to becoming the first Baby-Friendly hospital in Georgia – to this end, they would have to stop their current practice of mother-baby separation being encouraged by the neonatologist and the nurses. If you would like to see the mother-baby separation ended, please write to the Atlanta Medical Center and tell them how pleased you are that they are trying to become Baby-Friendly certified and how you hope they will implement policies and practices (such as keeping mothers and babies together) that help them reach this goal.

Here is the letter that I am sending using the contact form found here. Please feel free to use it or to modify it to your own needs:

I am writing to urge the Atlanta Medical Center to meet the goals necessary to become Georgia’s first certified Baby-Friendly hospital. By ending practices such as routine mother-infant separation, your facility could put itself at the forefront of encouraging breastfeeding success and providing an environment that serves to strengthen the important bond between new mother and baby. Keeping mothers and infants together during the first days after birth is vital to the establishment of the breastfeeding relationship. The Atlanta-area’s extensive birth and breastfeeding advocacy communities strongly encourage you to continue your efforts towards achieving Baby-Friendly certification and providing Georgia mothers with a positive, supportive option for maternity care.

Keep your kids rear-facing to age 2 (or beyond)!

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 03:29:29 GMT

Aug 09 - Keep Your Toddler in a Rear-Facing Car Seat Until Age 2 (Not 1)

AAP comments on rear-facing car seats. There is a well known myth that toddlers in rear-facing car seats whose feet can reach the back of the vehicle seat are more likely to suffer injuries to their legs in a car accident, however these injuries are NOT common in rear-facing seats.

New research indicates that children under 2 years of age are 75% less likely to die or experience serious injury when they ride in a rear-facing car seat and, toddlers between 1 and 2 years of age are 5 times safer than toddlers who ride in a front-facing car seat.

The reason behind this conclusion is pretty simple. When an accident occurs and a child is rear facing the force of the accident is distributed evenly over the entire body, forward facing children, because the force of the car crash is concentrated on seat belt contact points, can suffer from neck and head injuries because children’s necks are weak and their heads are disproportionately large for their little necks. Dr. Bull, who wrote the commentary for Pediatrics, states, “…it is far better to send children to orthopedic specialists to have lower extremities treated, than to send them to neurological specialists to have cervical spine injuries treated.” Makes sense!

According to the AAP, all infants should ride rear-facing in an infant car seat or convertible seat. If an infant car seat is used, baby should be switched to a rear-facing convertible car seat once the maximum height (when the infant’s head is within 1 inch of the top of the seat) and weight (usually 22 pounds to 32 pounds) are reached for that infant seat, as suggested by the car seat manufacturer. Toddlers should remain rear-facing in a convertible car seat until they have reached the maximum height and weight recommended for the model, or at least the age of 2. To see if your car seat is installed properly and to find a certified passenger safety technician in your area, visit www.SeatCheck.org or www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm. You also can call 866-SEATCHECK (866-732-8243) or 888-327-4236.

Nurse In

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 02:06:55 GMT

Tentatively planning a nurse-in at White Water for August 8th if I don't get a very compelling response from corporate before then. That gives them almost a month to get back to me.

This is one (of many) reason(s) to stay home

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:39:28 GMT

This article on the Unnecesarean blog has to be one of the most disturbing things I have ever read about current trends in obstetrical practice in the United States.

"Pit to distress" - administering the highest possible dosage of Pitocin in order to deliberately cause fetal distress, with the intended outcome of cesarean section. This isn't something made up by one or two conspiracy-seeking natural birthers. She includes links to references in other articles, quotes from individuals with firsthand experience, and even a photocopy from Labor and Delivery Nursing text book addressing the issue (it says that "'pit to distress' is not an acceptable order. If a provider writes 'pit to distress,' notify your charge nurse or supervisor [...] At all times, you must practice to prevent harm.). This is a real phenomenon.

Read and be disturbed.

C-Section Stress Could Alter Baby's Immune Cells

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 16:07:41 GMT

http://news.yahoo.com/s/hsn/20090703/hl_hsn/csectionstresscouldalterbabysimmunecells
Thu Jul 2, 11:48 pm ET

THURSDAY, July 2 (HealthDay News) -- Babies delivered by cesarean section experience changes to the DNA of white blood cells, which might explain why they're at increased risk for immunological diseases such as diabetes and asthma later in life, Swedish researchers say.

"Delivery by C-section has been associated with increased allergy, diabetes and leukemia risks," Dr. Mikael Norman, a pediatric specialist at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, said in a news release from Wiley-Blackwell publishers. "Although the underlying cause is unknown, our theory is that altered birth conditions could cause a genetic imprint in the immune cells that could play a role later in life."

Norman and his colleagues analyzed blood samples from 37 infants taken just after delivery and samples taken three to five days after birth. The blood was analyzed to assess the degree of DNA-methylation in the white blood cells, which are a key part of the immune system. In DNA-methylation, DNA is chemically modified to activate or turn off genes in response to changes in the external environment.

The 16 infants born by C-section had higher DNA-methylation rates immediately after delivery than the 21 infants born by vaginal delivery, according to the report, in the July issue of Acta Paediatrica. Three to five days after birth, both groups of infants had similar levels of DNA-methylation.

Further research is needed to determine why infants born by C-section have higher DNA-methylation rates after delivery, the researchers said.

"Animal studies have shown that negative stress around birth affects methylation of the genes, and therefore it is reasonable to believe that the differences in DNA-methylation that we found in human infants are linked to differences in birth stress," the researchers wrote.

"We know that the stress of being born is fundamentally different after planned C-section compared to normal vaginal delivery," they explained. "When babies are delivered by C-section, they are unprepared for the birth and can become more stressed after delivery than before. This is different [from] a normal vaginal delivery, where the stress gradually builds up before the actual birth, helping the baby to start breathing and quickly adapt to the new environment outside the womb."

ACTION ALERT - Mead Johnson's "Breast Milk Formula"

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:02:38 GMT

June 16, 2009

Formula company Mead Johnson has sunk to a new low with the launch of a website
http://www.enfamil.com/app/iwp/enfamil/productDetail.do?dm=enf&id=/Consumer_Home2/Enf_Products/ForInfants/EnfamilLIPIL2&iwpst=B2C&ls=0&csred=1&r=342227760
promoting its Enfamil brand. The website, targeted at U.S.
consumers, is entitled "The Breast Milk Formula - Enfamil" and uses the
slogan "Our closest formula to breastmilk." The company claims that its
formula produces health outcomes "similar to breastfed babies". As evidence,
Mead Johnson cites a study conducted in 2007 that supposedly showed that
babies fed on Enfamil had eye development virtually identical to breastfed
babies. The company calls this study "independent" research, and yet the
study was carried out by the Retina Foundation of the Southwest in Dallas,
TX. According to the Retina Foundation's 2007 annual report, Mead Johnson
gave the foundation over $100,000 the year that the study was published. How
is this independent?

This marketing campaign is a blatant case of false advertising. Because this
is a site originating in the United States and aimed at American consumers,
it is regulated in the United States by the Federal Trade Commission. Anyone
(including Canadians) can lodge a complaint with the FTC by visiting
https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/. They have a quick online form set up
which only takes a few minutes. Most of the fields will not apply to this
particular complaint, but at the end you can make your case against Mead
Johnson.

[ETA: Here is Mead Johnson's contact information for the form, if you want:
Mead Johnson Locations
Location Type: Headquarters
2400 W. Lloyd Expwy.
Evansville, IN 47721-0001
United States (Map)... Read More
Phone: 812-429-5000
Fax: 812-429-7538
http://www.meadjohnson.com]

Please take the time to lodge a complaint with the FTC and help stop this
aggressive and misleading marketing. You might want to adapt the following
text for the final section of the form:

Mead Johnson Nutritionals is engaged in flagrant false advertising. They
have launched a website that calls their Enfamil brand the "Breast Milk
Formula", claiming that babies who are fed on it are as healthy as breastfed
infants. Scientific evidence points to the fact that formula-fed babies are
at increased risk for infections and long term illnesses such as cancers,
obesity, diabetes and cardiac disease. Contrary to what Mead Johnson's
website states, the negative effects of artificial feeding include decreased
visual acuity and reduced cognitive development. Aggressive and false
marketing like this has resulted in only 13% of U.S. mothers meeting expert
recommendations to breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months of their
child's life. Please take action to stop Mead Johnson's deception.

The website in question is:
http://www.enfamil.com/app/iwp/enfamil/productDetail.do?dm=enf&id=/Consumer_Home2/Enf_Products/ForInfants/EnfamilLIPIL2&iwpst=B2C&ls=0&csred=1&r=3422636949

AMA Resolution Would Seek to Label “Ungrateful” Patients

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 18:58:53 GMT

AMA Resolution Would Seek to Label “Ungrateful” Patients

Redondo Beach, CA, June 11, 2009 - At the American Medical Association’s (AMA) Annual Meeting next week, delegates will vote on a resolution which proposes to develop CPT (billing) codes to identify and label “non-compliant” patients (1)

The resolution complains:

“The stress of dealing with ungrateful patients is adding to the stress of physicians leading to decreased physician satisfaction.”

“This resolution is alarming in its arrogance and its failure to recognize, or even pay lip service to, patient autonomy,” said Desirre Andrews, the newly elected president of the International Cesarean Awareness Network (ICAN).

If approved, the resolution could hold implications for women receiving maternity care. For pregnant women seeking quality care and good outcomes, “non-compliance” is often their only alternative to accepting sub-standard care. Physicians routinely order interventions like induction, episiotomy, or cesarean section unnecessarily.

Liz Dutzy, a mother from Olathe, Kansas, delivered her first two babies by cesarean and was told by her obstetrician that she needed another surgical delivery. “My doctor told me that I needed to have a cesarean delivery at 39 weeks, or my uterus would rupture and my baby would die.” She sought out another care provider and had a healthy and safe intervention-free {home} birth at 41 weeks and 3 days gestation.

A recent report by Childbirth Connection and The Milbank Memorial Fund, called “Evidence-Based Maternity Care: What It Is and What It Can Achieve ,” (2) shows that the state of maternity care in the U.S. is worrisome, driven largely by a failure of care providers to heed evidence-based care practices. For most women in the U.S., care practices that have been proven to make childbirth easier and safer are underused, and interventions that may increase risks to mothers and babies are routinely overused. The authors of the report point to the “perinatal paradox” of doing more, but accomplishing less.

The resolution proposed by the Michigan delegation of the AMA could threaten patient care and patient autonomy for several reasons:

• Billing codes that would categorize any disagreement and exercise of autonomy on the part of the patient as “non-compliance” “abuse” or “hostility” could create a pathway for insurance companies to deny coverage to patients
• Use of these labels fails to recognize patients as competent partners with physicians in their own care
• Tagging patients as “non-compliant” fails to recognize that there is not a “one size fits all” approach to care, that different opinions among physicians abound, and that patients are entitled to these very same differences of opinion
• Labeling patients as “non-compliant” may, in fact, be punitive, jeopardizing a patient’s ability to seek out other care providers

The resolution also fails to address how it would implicate patients navigating controversial issues in medical care, like vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). While a substantive body of medical research demonstrates that VBAC is reasonably safe, if not safer, than repeat cesareans, most physicians and hospitals refuse to support VBAC. (3) The language in the resolution suggests that patients who assert their right to opt for VBAC could be tagged as non-compliant, even though their choice would be consistent with the medical research.

“The reality is that the balance of power in the physician-patient relationship is decidedly tipped towards physicians. The least patients should have is the right to disagree with their doctors and not be labeled a ‘naughty’ patient,” said Andrews.

About Cesareans: When a cesarean is medically necessary, it can be a lifesaving technique for both mother and baby, and worth the risks involved. Potential risks to babies from cesareans include: low birth weight, prematurity, respiratory problems, and lacerations. Potential risks to women include: hemorrhage, infection, hysterectomy, surgical mistakes, re-hospitalization, dangerous placental abnormalities in future pregnancies, unexplained stillbirth in future pregnancies and increased percentage of maternal death.

Mission statement: ICAN is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve maternal-child health by preventing unnecessary cesareans through education, providing support for cesarean recovery and promoting vaginal birth after cesarean. ICAN has 110 chapters in North America and Europe, which hold educational and support meetings for people interested in cesarean prevention and recovery.

(1) Resolution 710 “Identifying Abusive, Hostile or Non-Compliant Patients”

(2) Evidence-Based Maternity Care: What It Is and What It Can Achieve

(3) http://www.ican-online.org/ican-in-the-news/trouble-repeat-cesareans

AMERICAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION HOUSE OF DELEGATES
Resolution: 710
(A-09)
Introduced by: Michigan Delegation
Subject: Identifying Abusive, Hostile or Non-Compliant Patients
Referred to: Reference Committee G
(J. Leonard Lichtenfeld, MD, Chair)
Whereas, Many patients are becoming more abusive and hostile toward physicians for many
reasons not limited to the economy, increasing co-pays and deductibles, unreasonable
expectations and demands, a lack of instantaneous cure, arrogance and/or the belief that they
“own” their physicians; and
Whereas, There are decreasing numbers of physicians both in primary care and specialties
especially in terms of access; and
Whereas, Increasing noncompliance with treatment can reflect negatively on physicians during
black box audits by insurance companies and oversight governmental agencies; and
Whereas, Abusive, hostile, and noncompliant patients result in increasing office resources
adding to office overhead and added stress on all of the office personnel, which can lead to
potential ill health; and
Whereas, The stress of dealing with ungrateful patients is adding to the stress of physicians
leading to decreased physician satisfaction; and
Whereas, Any complaint to any oversight investigative regulatory body leads to uncompensated
expenditure of time, resources, and monies to defend physicians or the “guilty until proven
innocent” principal; and
Whereas, Physicians need to own the data to simplify patient collection and identification to
defend themselves as well as alert outside investigating agencies to the potential nature of the
patient’s records; therefore be it
RESOLVED: That our American Medical Association ask its CPT Editorial Panel to investigate
for data collection and report back at Annual 2010 meeting: 1) developing a modifier for the
E&M codes to identify non-compliant patients and/or 2) develop an add-on code to E&M codes
to identify non-compliant patients. (Directive to Take Action)
Fiscal Note: Staff cost estimated at less than $500 to implement.
Received: 05/06/09

It's a contest...a YARN contest

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:32:19 GMT

Go here and comment for a chance to win a $20 gift certificate to Three Irish Girls!

All my babies' birth stories

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 03:59:49 GMT

Just creating an public entry to have the links to them all in one place for tagging and future reference:

Liam's Birth, 11/28/00 -- 9lb, 21.5 inches long.
Donovan's Birth, 6/9/06 -- 8lb 3oz, 19.5 inches long.
Rosaline's Birth, 3/27/09 -- 9lb 4oz, 21 inches long.