Stuff that bugs me, Part 23,152

I guess you can't count on reporters to always get facts right, but with all of the reporting trying to shut down the vaccine/autism link, let's at least be honest about what's being alleged. A new AP story today reports on "fringe" autism treatment and makes the same silly mistake that every reporter has made since I started following such things. Note to reporters, and everyone: it's NOT about Thimerosal and mercury in vaccines, at least not so much anymore. There are many other questions, such as how a vaccine (immune stimulant) affects a child who is genetically susceptible to autoimmune, and whether vaccines can initiate infections in the intestine that block nutrient absorption. I am still waiting for somebody to explain to me why we vaccinate 1 day old children against a disease that is spread mostly by drug addicts sharing needles and prostitutes. I'm not saying I believe there's a link, or that there's not: that's a debate for another post. I'm just saying that we should at least understand the questions and be smart enough to ask them honestly.

Who am I kidding, though? My AAP-trained pediatrician doesn't ask these questions. Why should a reporter?

</rant>

A dramatic sunset

If you keep your eyes open, every now and then you see something amazing. If you have a camera handy, you can catch it. This sunset happened a couple of days ago. I snapped the picture standing on our deck, then stood and enjoyed the sight for a while.

The truck is gone...

A sad day for me... We sold my Tundra this evening. I drove it for five years almost exactly, and it has been the most fun vehicle I've ever had. But, I haven't had it to the mountains in a couple of years, and from the look of things, we won't be doing much camping or hauling for some time. Plus, when it's time to camp again, we'll probably need one with 4 doors instead anyway. It was the right thing to do, or so my brain keeps telling me. In the meantime, I really liked that truck and I'm going to miss driving it around. I hope the fella who bought it from me enjoys it as much as I have.

In the meantime, stay tuned for the replacement vehicle... ;-)

Katherine's new favorite toy

A few days ago, we took a trip to Toys R Us because it was time for some better yard toys. Katherine has always loved the slide at the park, so we figured we needed to get her a slide. What a great find! It didn't take her long to figure out how it works, as you can see.

A big thanks to Uncle Cleon and Aunt Jo for the gift certificates. That giant grin is Katherine saying "Thanks!"

Theodore is here!

The newest Winslow is Theodore James, who showed up April 30. He's an adorable little guy, light haired and blue eyed. Big sister Katherine has decided that she adores the new brother, and she gives him kisses and cuddles, although she's still learning about the whole "gentle" thing.

His namesake is Lena's grandfather, Fyodor Zubkov. We're NOT shortening the name: no Ted, no Theo, and certainly no TJ. It's THE O DORE. Yes, Julia, we're talking to you. :-)