Allergy-Free Trip Follow Up

I just returned from my 4 day Wind Ensemble trip on Sunday, and everything went very smoothly! There were no issues with the food at all! A bonus was that my roommates and I ended up with the largest room out of everyone that came with a mini fridge AND a microwave! I was able to easily store and cook my food as necessary!

A short story that I'd like to share from this trip:
While on the bus ride down, I decided to show my friends I was sitting near where my Epipen was and how to use it if it became necessary. Even though I already had a trained chaperone and my sisters with me, I thought it would be good to have them as backup. As it turned out, most of them already knew how to use it! Not only that, but they were fighting over who would take the responsibility of injecting me. They showed me that they weren't afraid to step up and help if it became an emergency situation (which fortunately it didn't!) I have good friends and it was a fun trip!

If anyone has questions on any specific details of my trip, just comment and I'll tell you!
Thanks for reading!

-Alli

Believe

Sometimes when I'm alone, and just think, I imagine my future. What I've noticed is that those times when I'm imagining my future, I'm not just picturing my home, husband, kids and friends, but I see myself cooking for my family. But this dream is tainted with my food allergies. I don't know if in 25 years I'm going to be cooking my whole family allergy-friendly food, or if I will be able to enjoy the food my children and husband want to. I don't know if there is going to be a cure for food allergies, or if I will have to live with them for life.

What I do know is this: Some day, some how, a cure for food allergies will be created. I believe in the doctors, I believe in the researchers, I believe in FARE. Most importantly, I believe in myself, that even if the cure does not come during my life time, I will be able to live a happy and fulfilling life, despite my allergies. I hope you can too.

Best Wishes,

-Alli

Hoping for an Allergy-Free Trip!

In just 5 days, my High School Wind Ensemble is going on a four day field trip! I'm SUPER excited, but I'm kind of nervous how everything is going to work out with my allergies. I'm not nervous about having a reaction, but more so how I will get my own food that I bring available and ready when I need it. Fortunately, both of my sisters are going on the trip as well, so if anything does go wrong, they know how to administer my Epipen, and I plan on training some of my friends as well. Hopefully, this won't be necessary! I'll make sure to let you know how everything goes after the trip!

Wish me luck!

-Alli

The Love of A Mother

Dedicated to my Mother, who has made me who I am. She has helped me live with my food allergies, and shown me how to be the best person I can. For that, I am so grateful.

The Love of A Mother

Each day I woke up

Scared of what would come

My mom helped me stand

By giving her love

She dries my eyes

She wipes my tears

She's held my hand

Over all the years

With a quick little hug

Or a good long laugh

She's there to brighten my day

Making each one last.

She watches out for me

She makes me feel safe

Whether I am by myself

Or within her embrace.

Her smile lights up a room

Her laugh so contagious

Without her my life would be dull

Because of her, I'm destined for greatness.

You have stuck with me

(You didn't really have a choice)

You've taken care of me

You've given me a voice

I love you Mom

I hope you know

You've brightened my life

You've helped me grow

To the Mother of me

To the sister of some

To the friend of many

And the wife of one

You deserve the best

You keep on giving

Without you, Mother

Life would not be worth living. 

Stop Underestimating Yourself

Just because you have food allergies does not mean you are any less important or inadequate in any way. It just means you have something that is a part of you and affects your life. It is YOUR choice whether you let it affect you positively or negatively.

I made food allergies positive by creating this blog. How have you made your allergy-situation positive?

NBC Nightly News: The Worlds View on Food Allergies

Visit NBCNews.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

We always look at our food allergies from a personal view, as we are people that have them or have been affected. But sometimes it is good to look from the outside and see what other people see. Take a look at this video, and maybe we'll learn something!

Fear is a Choice

An allergy is not something to underestimate. It affects the way you live, act, and enjoy life on a day to day basis. It causes you to start double-checking everything you are going to do to see if it is going to involve food, and your allergens. However, by over checking, you are setting yourself up to live a life of fear. If you are thinking about your allergies every hour and minute, then you have to understand that it doesn't have to be that way. There is a difference between living with an allergy and fearing what you have to live with. It is important to stay on the right side of this fine line. Fun and excitement can still be a part of your every day life while living with a food allergy! Don't become over-protective of yourself or your child every time you want to go out.

Who would always want to be thinking about when their next reaction is going to be? Not me! I want to know how to help myself if one occurs, but I don't want to be scared 24/7 about what's coming next! If I stay safe right now, I am protecting myself for the future. But right now, I am also having fun and enjoying myself, even with food allergies. I hope you can too!
Stay safe, and have fun!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

A Great Blog: "Jazzy Allergy Recipes"

I have just discovered this GREAT blog! It is called Jazzy Allergy Recipes and it is filled with a few years worth of posts and posts of dairy, egg, and nut free recipes! I haven't tried any of them out yet, but definitely plan to tomorrow! Try some out and send in pics of the turn-out! Let me know which ones you recommend!

Click on the link below:

Jazzy Allergy Recipes

Easter Peeps

Easter has already passed, but I have to say personally, it was one of the best! Not only did I have plenty of candy, but I got to have dinner with my best friend's family! Granted, they are Jewish, but they happily took part in our Easter festivities! This year, we held our first Annual PEEPle's Choice Awards! It was a blast! I'm sharing this with you because not only is it Easter-related, but it is allergy-friendly! My friend and I entered "St. Peeps Hospital" (which is the picture on the left). My sister Claire and my friend's mom and sister created "The PEEPle of Israel". Finally, my sister Katie and brother Peter created "The PEEPle's Court". All of them were so funny and were a blast to create! So if you have left over Peeps or next year around Easter time you need an activity, I highly suggest holding a PEEPle's Choice Awards of your own! Send me pictures!

Have Fun!

-Alli

Subway Support

Just last week, my two sisters and I went to Subway for dinner. As I got in line, my sisters allowed me to go first. I immediately told the worker that I had food allergies, and before I could request the use of clean knives and gloves, this is what she said:

   "Let me wash my hands, then I'll get a brand new knife from the back."

Despite the simplicity of this gesture, I was so thankful that a company like Subway hires people legitimately capable of doing their job. This woman knew how to help me while keeping me safe, and it was awesome!

However, just two days ago, I had a bad Subway experience. This time, when I asked for a clean knife from the back, the worker was shocked and looked at me like I was crazy. He told me they did not have any clean knives in the back, but that he could use the bread knife. I okayed this, but the attitude of this man upset me. He was unwilling to cooperate to keep me safe and shocked when I asked for a slight adjustment. I ended up getting an itchy tongue after the second half of my sandwich, but with the help of Benadryll, I  wa able to avoid any further reaction.

If all employees were like the woman that served me at Subway, and not like the man, it would be so much easier for those with food allergies to go out and eat without being worried about reactions. I hope one day this can happen, but until then, please stay safe while dining out!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

I Choose Happiness

Do you ever wake up in the morning wondering why YOU have to suffer through food allergies? When I was younger, this thought ran through my head almost everyday. When I finally asked my mom why, she simply said "God has special plans for you in the future". He knew that I am strong enough to live, survive and flourish with food allergies. Over the years, I have discovered that He was right all those years ago when he blessed me with food allergies. However, I know many people do not hold the same faith as I do, and for you I have this quote:

        "I am in charge of how I feel, and today I choose happiness"

Every day I could wake up and think "Ugh, just another day I won't be able to eat pizza or ice cream, or even just buy lunch." Instead, I wake up thankful that I have food to eat, despite the ingredients of the food. There are so many in the world without food that would gladly take the shares that people complain over.

I've learned that food allergies are not a hindrance to me, but have given me a reason to be stronger, a reason to be thankful, and a reason to be who I am. I don't know if I would be the same person I am today if I didn't have food allergies. So despite the problems that food allergies bring me, they have shaped me to be the strong, independent, and happy person I am today.

So, thank you God. For everything.

-Alli

Thankful for Food Allergies

Having food allergies is a time-consuming job. We live with them 24/7, and because of that we think we are the only ones that have a burden to bear. But there are so many other  people that have harder struggles than us. I have a 9 year old cousin that has been living with diabetes since he was 6, I have a neighbor that had cancer. There are people that have divorced parents, and have family members that have passed away. When i take everything into perspective, food allergies are not that bad! I still live a happy, healthy life. I just have to be careful with what I'm eating and touching, but compared to the lives of others, my struggles are easy.


So next time you start to pity yourself for food allergies, think about it, and maybe take a moment to be thankful for your food allergies.

Best of Luck!

-Alli

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)

A few months ago, I applied to be a part of FARE's Teen Advisory Group, commonly known as TAG, and today was the day I found out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(drumroll please!)

I'VE BEEN ACCEPTED!

I'm so excited to be working with FARE and I actually ran around my house doing a happy dance (no joke!)   I have found another way that I can help those with food allergies be more confident and feel safe and cannot wait to get started! Check out more information at:
 http://www.foodallergy.org/resources/teens/teen-advisory-group

Wish me luck in the year to come, and try to follow my stories on the FARE website! I will try to frequently give updates!

-Alli

Trust Yourself!

Growing up as a kid with food allergies, I've had to learn how to take care of myself. My mom, dad, and sibblings know how to handle my food allergies, and live with it in their daily lives because of my brother and me. But despite the great knowledge and allergy-awareness they've gained from living with me, they are still human, and can still forget how I have to live.

Sometimes my dad buys pretzels that I can't eat without realizing it.

Sometimes my mom uses the same spatula for beef hamburgers to flip my turkey burgers.

Sometimes my sisters will bake something with the intent of making it allergy friendly, but forgets to use soy milk, or the egg substitute instead.

Do these instances mean that my family doesn't care or understand? Of course not! They love me very much and never intentionally do these things! However, because it is not them living with the food allergies, and their mistakes are not going to directly affect their health, they slip up sometimes.
Because I know they don't mean to do these things, I don't blame them in any way, and try not to get frustrated with them. Instead what I've learned to do is to look out for myself, and my brother. If someone is cooking dinner that involves my allergens, I ask the "chef" if they are being safe with my food. I sometimes even like to watch them cook, even if they don't notice, just to be sure they aren't going to get me sick accidentally.

In essence, I've learned to trust myself above all others. Even if someone close to me tells me its safe, I want to double check in any way possible. Of course, when I was younger this was not possible, but as I've grown up, I've learned to trust myself and my actions to keep me safe. I hope many of you can learn to do the same. For sometimes it is in trusting yourself that you discover your own judgement is better than that of others, even those close to  you.

Please believe me when I say I am not writing this to tell you that you can't trust those around you, those trying to help you, but to make sure that those you trust know what they are doing!

Best of Luck!

-Alli

Acts of Love

Over the years, I have discovered the people that really care for me and love me are the ones that take the time to be careful with my food allergies. The little things people do to keep me safe, those are the things I remember the most about a person. If they are friends, they know the brands I can and can't eat, and stock their houses with allergy-friendly food for sleepovers. Not to mention they'll avoid bringing in food I'm allergic to for lunch (Check out Random Acts of Allergy-Friendly Kindess). My family members don't mind having allergy-friendly cake, even when its their birthday! They also know how to read labels, double checking everything I read to see if its allergy-friendly. They take the time to make something allergy-friendly, even when its easier not to.

Its these little things, these acts of love, that help me stay strong, knowing that my family and friends support me in what I have to live with. They make having food allergies easier! These simple acts of love help me find my true friends, and help me grow even closer to my family! What are your simple acts of love that make living with food allergies easier? Send me your stories! :)

-Alli

The Newbie

Very recently, one of my good friends discovered that she is allergic to almonds while eating a new trail mix her mom brought home. She started getting hives all over her face and quickly took medication. As she is adapting to this allergen, she realized just how many things contain almonds, whether its directly, or just because the food was processed on a facility that produces almonds.
When I asked her what she thought about her new food allergy, this is what she said:

"Its just a different way of living. Even though its a small allergy, I've had to change and be aware of what I am eating, such as granola bars, trail mix. I just have to double check everything I was used to having...I miss having my favorite granola bars...but I don't miss the rashes!"

I guess what I really learned from my friend, this "newbie" to food allergies, is that no one can really understand food allergies and the struggles we go through unless they have allergies themselves.
I'm not saying that people don't try to understand, the people that try are your true friends. However, I am saying that although they try, they will never truly know what you will have to go through. You have to be able to stand up for yourself and know that despite this, you are NOT alone! The people who care for you will always be there, and so will everyone in the allergy community, including myself. Best of Luck!


-Alli

Thank You!

Today is my Birthday! Most of the time it just means getting older, but turning 15 means something to me this year.  I feel like over the past few months I have made a difference in the world; I have made a difference in people's lives. And I've done that through this. Through my writing, my stories, my recipes, my advice. I've had people tell me that I'm an inspiration, that what I write makes them cry, that their children are connecting to what I say. I would like to thank everyone that's ever read anything I've written. Thank you for helping me accomplish something this past year. But most of all, Thank You for reading! <3

Making A Difference

Last night, my parents and I watched the movie Mr. Holland's Opus. This movie is all about a man who's one dream is to create one piece of music that will make him famous. He ends up unwillingly taking a job as a music teacher. As the years pass by, his wife becomes pregnant and he finds less and less time to write his music. However, he has become a great teacher, influencing many children and teaching them how to love music anyway he can. When he finds out his infant son is deaf, he's devastated that he won't be able to share his one passion, music, with him. As Mr. Holland slowly gets older, he feels he was unsuccessful in life because he never was able to publish his one piece of music. When the music program gets canceled in his school and he is let go, it makes him feel even worse. However, as he is leaving the school, he hears a commotion in the auditorium, only to discover that there were hundreds of students, alumni and current, that were in there to thank him and tell him goodbye. One of his students, that because he encouraged her to chase her dream became governor, shared that:

"Mr. Holland had a profound influence on my life and on a lot of lives I know. But I have a feeling that he considers a great part of his own life misspent. Rumor had it he was always working on this symphony of his. And this was going to make him famous, rich, probably both. But Mr. Holland isn't rich and he isn't famous, at least not outside of our little town. So it might be easy for him to think himself a failure. But he would be wrong, because I think that he's achieved a success far beyond riches and fame. Look around you. There is not a life in this room that you have not touched, and each of us is a better person because of you. We are your symphony Mr. Holland. We are the melodies and the notes of your opus. We are the music of your life."

She then invites him to conduct his past players in the first performance of his symphony.

After watching this movie, I realized that I want to be like Mr. Holland. My dream is to influence as many people as possible in a beneficial way. To touch others, and make a difference in each and every one of their lives. This is when I realized, I'm already doing that. I'm doing it through this blog. Every one of you reading this is the music of my life. I'd like to thank you for caring so much about what I say and taking the time to give me feedback on everything I write. This blog means a lot to me, but it would mean nothing without my followers. So thank you, really. You've helped me find a purpose in my life! I highly recommend this movie and hope you find as much inspiration in it as I do!

-Alli

Random Acts of Allergy-Friendly Kindness

I walked into lunch the other day, as I would any day, and took my seat by my friends. One of my friends, who I don't know too well, was about to take a seat next to me. However, at the last second she stood up and walked around to the other side. Slightly hurt, I said: "(Name of friend), you can sit here" but she replied immediately "No" But when she explained it made total sense and left me happily surprised. She simply said:

"I have peanut butter today, and I don't want to get you sick."

Today, another occurrence happened. In the middle of lunch, my friend across from me pulled out a granola bar, and she too left me happily surprised. She said:

"You know Allison, I was going to pack a peanut butter bar for lunch, but when I realized that I have lunch with you today, I traded it for a regular granola bar. I didn't want to risk getting you sick."

So this I am dedicating to these two friends, who stopped what they were doing just to adapt their lives around me; to keep me safe. I really appreciate it. The little things like this are what keep those with allergies safe. It helps me stay healthy AND it makes me appreciate what great friends I have! Thanks friends!!!

-Alli

Cinnamuffins

Milk, Egg, Peanut, Nut, and Soy Free!

1/4 Cup oil
1/2 Cup dark molasses
1 Cup applesauce
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt

Optional: 1/2 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line muffin tins with paper liners. Mix oil, molasses, and applesauce. Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir together wet and dry ingredients, add raisins if desirable.

Drop into muffin cups and bake 18-20 minutes. Makes about 12 muffins- top with a sprinkling of powdered sugar.


Please remember to double check all ingredients for your food allergens.
Enjoy!

-Alli

Reaction Record

After my allergic reaction last Friday, I was thinking about how it had been so long since my last reaction-probably over 2 years ago! Even though its great that it was so long ago, I don't remember any of the details of that day. I don't know how I reacted to the allergen or even what the allergen was! So today I wrote down last Friday's date, and described my allergic reaction. I explained what I ate before hand, what I think I reacted to, and all of the symptoms- which is probably the most important part. I'm going to make this my Reaction Record, and every time I have a reaction (hopefully they are few and far between) I'm going to describe what happens. Maybe this will be of some use to my doctors, or even just to me! I'll be able to learn more from my past mistakes when I actually remember what they were! I suggest you do the same!
Best of Luck!

-Alli

Bullying and Food Allergies

Right now, I am sitting in my family room and while half-paying attention to the news, I suddenly heard "Food Allergies" mentioned. My head snapped up and I heard them say that many kids with food allergies are bullied! I immediately looked it up and found this article that shares some information about it! Read the article and tell me what you think!

Bullying and Food Allergies

Facebook Cover Photo Contest WINNER!

Jordan, Age 8, is the winner of the Facebook Cover Photo Contest! She shares that even though people have allergies, you can still find something to smile at! Congratulations Jordan! You did a great job! You deserve plenty of praise, and great big SMILES :D

Merry Christmas!


-Alli

You Are Not Alone!

Having food allergies is a struggle, my situation yesterday really showed me that. However, I was able to pull through because of my family, and all those that care about me. My mom showed up at my school within 20 minutes, my dad right behind her. My sister immediately came to check in on me. My friend brought me down to the nurse with a lot of concern in her face, and then later with the help of another brought down my backpack when it was obvious I wasn't going back to class. When I was getting sick, my dad was wiping my face clean, holding an ice pack to my neck. As soon as I got home, my brother expressed his concern for me. He offered to make me toast, and my mom came to check in and see if I was okay multiple times. So many people yesterday showed me how much they cared about me and it was an amazing feeling. I would like to thank all of them! It meant so much to me and truly showed me how I am never alone in the struggle against food allergies, and neither are you!

Allergy Friendly (Not!)

Today was one of those days where I wanted so badly not to have allergies. We were having a class Holiday party today, the last block of the day before winter break. I made Donna's "Butter" Cookies and they were a great success! Everyone loved them! Another person brought in Lay's potato chips, which are also allergy friendly! I was quite happy with the food turn out! However, about 1 week ago, my friend told me she was planning on making latkas. She showed me a picture of the ingredient list and told me that they were going to be fried in veggie oil, and that was it. I was excited, I was going to get to try a latka, and it was allergy friendly without any recipe altering! So of course I told her yes, that I can eat them!

However, after eating just one, about 2 inches in diameter, I felt my stomach starting to hurt within the next 20 minutes. At first I just thought, no hoped, that maybe, just maybe, it only hurt because I had eaten too many cookies and chips. But we all know that there is quite a difference between a "belly ache" and an "allergy ache"...they are two completely different feelings. In the next five minutes, I could tell it was a reaction because my body was heating up and my stomach really hurt. My mom and dad arrived in the nurses office soon after that, and when my mom had to leave for a doctors appointment, she told my dad "Take care of my baby girl". She felt horrible that she couldn't stay when I was in so much pain, but don't worry mom, dad took care of me!

As I sat in the nurses office, school ended and everyone went home. But not me, I sat with the nurse and my dad for another hour and a half. Towards the end, I just wanted to throw up, just so I could get everything out of my system, and after starting to have an itchy neck, it finally happened. As soon as I was done, I felt 110% better and I, exhausted after a lot of Benadryl, went home. 

I guess when I told my friend that her latkas were safe for me, I was saying it not because it was true, but because I wanted them so badly to be safe. I let my feelings cloud my judgment, and endangered myself in the process. Today was my first allergy reaction in over 2 years, and I can easily say that it was a learning lesson for me. This time around, I'm going to try to stay allergy free longer!
Wish me Luck!

-Alli

Things "They" Don't Think Of

2 years ago, I was scheduled to get braces. But before that was even planned, my mom took me to a dermatologist- for, you guessed it- allergy testing! I was going to be living two years with strips of metal in my mouth, and I definitely didn't want to be allergic to it!  For 2 whole weeks I had to wear a white bandage on my forearm while the testing was going on...I got many questions from people thinking that I had somehow hurt myself! Fortunately that was not the case. Though it turned out that I am allergic to magnesium- interesting, isn't it? That a person can be allergic to metal...Well anyway, magnesium was not an "ingredient" in the braces and I set my appointment. I have now been braces free for almost 4 months now and completely allergy safe!

However strange the idea of getting tested for allergies to braces may seem to outsiders of the "allergy world", it is a natural thought process for anyone with allergies! If anything is going to be in contact with you that you haven't been in contact with before, it is natural to get tested for it, including braces!It may not be something "they" (non-allergic people that is) would ever understand or even think of, but it's important to keep yourself safe! So even though it may seem unlikely that you'll be allergic to it, get tested anyways! As my dad always says "It's better to be safe than sorry!"
Best of Luck!

-Alli

12 Days of an Allergy Free Christmas

Cute Song!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!!

-Alli

Facebook Page Cover Photo Contest!

THE TIME HAS FINALLY COME!

I posted about 2 months ago on my Facebook page that once my page reached 100 likes, I was going to have a contest! Well, thanks to my many followers, I have reached 101 likes and its CONTEST TIME!!!

Here is your task:
Design a cover photo for my Facebook Page that is allergy-related!!!

As for the design of the photo, it is up to you! It can be hand drawn by your child, computer generated, or even a photo of something! Whatever you think is best! Just make sure the photo is going to fit as a Facebook cover photo!

I will be accepting photos until December 24th and will initiate the new cover photo on December 25th! (A pretty good Christmas present for the winner!) That gives  you 15 days! Spread the word around and Best of Luck!

https://www.facebook.com/AllergyAlli

-Alli

The Benefits of Food Allergies- YOUR Opinions!

Lisa says: "Helps us eat healthier and reduces the amount of processed foods in our house! Baking and cooking really is a nice family activity!"

Amanda says: "We eat so much healthier! I've lost over 20 pounds since my daughters food allergy diagnosis. Love providing my family with wholesome WHOLE foods to eat. Better for everyone!"

Jenni says: "I hate for allergies for many reasons, but one reason I am grateful for them is that they have forced us to reconsider what we all as a family put into our bodies, and we now eat healthier for it. And since being more aware of our daughters food issues, we have began listening to our own bodies more"

Shannon says: I am truly grateful for the social 'filter' that food allergies offer. While it took me a while to see it as a gift, I love how real and honest our friendships are with others. Food allergies gave us the blessing of understanding who accepts our lives as a family against those that don't. I came to realize that some people don't 'get it' or want to 'get it' and that's okay. When you meet those that DO care and completely support you for YOU...wow! That's a real friend!! Such a blessing!

Anonymous says: "[My son] has always been positive about his allergies but the positive he has is money money money. I don't mean we bribe him lol. His pocket money, birthday money, grandparents give him money, etc. Anyway my eldest son spends his on sweets etc but because the youngest can't he has a savings that is the envy of all. He always has money to buy what he wants. And to quote 'It's cool having allergies'."


These are all great reasons!
For me, I think food allergies have made me much stronger and even more independent than I ever would have been if I didn't have allergies. Think about it. Everyday we have to deal with watching what we eat. We also have to deal with others wondering why we don't eat what they eat and then having to give the whole explanation. (You all know the one!) But everyday I am proud to have food allergies! They have made me who I am, and if I was given the choice to be born without them, I wouldn't take it! They have taught me more about myself than anyone or anything out there. Sure, someday I hope I grow out of them, but for now, I'm happy as I am!

-Alli

It's Been Approved!

I have been meaning to tell you all for a while now, but as of about 1 week ago, my Silver Award Project has been approved! This means that I can move onto my Gold Award. I plan on continuing Allergy Alli even though my project is over and am hoping that I can somehow incorporate it into my Gold Award as well!
Wish me luck!

-Alli

Benefits of Food Allergies

Have you ever realized that people always talk of food allergies in a negative point of view? Why is that?!?! If you know how to live with food allergies and you understand them, are they really that bad? I want to composite a list of all your opinions. Why are food allergies beneficial to you and your life? Get your child's opinion as well!

Never Make Me Cry

In my English class, my teacher gave us an assignment to write a poem about something that has affected our lives. Naturally, I chose my food allergies and wanted to share the poem with all of you.
* Please note the reference to my blog in this :) *

Never Make Me Cry

Some may say I'm different 

Some may say I'm strange

But when I'm standing next to you

We look just the same

Nothing on the outside

 Is different, you see

It is something on the inside

That separates you from me

For me it's like a madness

That cut straight to the core

But when I realized God's there for me

It was a madness no more

I was constantly careful

I was nervous that the pain,

(If one thing went wrong)

Would start coursing through my veins

Now as I get older

I struggle less and less

I've come to understand

God gives the hard stuff to his best

I've learned to survive

To flourish, to withstand

Everything this has thrown at me

Especially when unplanned

To you it seems there's something wrong

Just from what you've read

 But really I'm living quite strong

In the shadow of what's ahead

I'm passing on my knowledge

To others just like me

I share my stories with them

And inspire them to believe

Someday its presumed

That they'll simply disappear

But the doctors have been saying this 

For a hundred thousand years

With this I was born,

And with this I will die.

But never will I let again

My food allergies make me cry.

-Alli

4th Grade Memories

Having food allergies can be hard, and having a reaction is even harder. But I've been lucky. My brother Peter and I have the same food allergies so we know that whatever one eats, so can the other. We also have very similar reactions to our allergens, which most of the time is vomiting. I remember one time in particular. I even wrote a story about it in 4th grade. Here's what I wrote (no edits):

I'm Proud of You 
4/28/08

     It was a normal time, of a normal day, of a normal year, but I'm not sure if my brother made it feel as...well as normal as it was supposed to be.
     Me and my brother were sitting in our (normal) family room watching t.v.. Everything was fine, until it happened.
     "Blegh!" My brother was starting to vomit. Not a good sign. I raced into my (normal) kitchen, grabbed an bucket and darted back into my (not so normal anymore) family room.
     "Mom!!!" I shout up the stais into my moms office. "Peter's getting sick!!!" I do this while holding a bucket under my brother's mouth.
    My mom reminds me of a fast racehorse racing to the finish line. The finish line? My brother.
    She sees me holding the bucket in front of Peter and tries to clean up everything he vomited on the carpet, the couch, and himself. as he finishes cleaning his stomach out of whatever irritated it, he starts to feel better.

     About an hour later afte everything (and everyone) was cleaned up my mom told me something.
     "Allison?" my mom says.
     "Yeah?" I answer.
     "There aren't many people, including me, that would hold a bucket infront of someone who's getting sick in the bucket. I"m proud of you."
     "Thanks mom."
     "Peter will always know that his sisters love him."

      I guessed it turned out to be a not-so-normal day after all.

I guess what I'm trying to point out here is that food allergies have impacted my life from Day 1. It impacted me enough that I wrote a story about it when I was 9! There has never been a day that I haven't thought and/or worried about food allergies. But you have to know you can still build a successful life around food allergies! I have so far!

-Alli

Thanksgiving Food Overview

FOOD:
The food in my house for Thanksgiving is simple-yet delicious! My mom is a wonderful cook, and even though I'll offer to help, she'll tell me I'm not fast enough at peeling potatoes. But its okay- watching her cook makes up for it!

Main Dish:

• obviously the turkey!!!

Sides:

• Mashed Potatoes
• Onion Soup Mix Potatoes 
• (not everyone in my family are mashed potato lovers-but I just don't understand it!)
• Salad
• Stuffing
• Cranberry Sauce
• Assorted Vegetables (carrots, green beans, corn, broccoli, etc.) 

Desserts:

• Apple Pie
• Cinnamuffins 
• Ice Cream (Sorbet for the Allergic)
• By the time we get to dessert, we are all stuffed! So not a lot of effort is put into the dessert category... :)

Drinks:

• Apple Cider

I meant to get this out before Thanksgiving, but there was a lot going on last week, and didn't have computer access until today! I hope everyone had a great allergen-free Thanksgiving!

-Alli

Thanksgiving 101

As we all know, Thanksgiving is right around the corner. This, (as dictionary.com says) is "a national holiday celebrated as a day of feasting and giving thanks". So pretty much its a day of giving thanks--and EATING! Now to most, this is the best holiday of the year. After all, who doesn't love food? However, to those with food allergies, its a day of celebration and anxiety. Whether you stay at home or visit someone else's house for dinner, there is going to be something to worry about. But do not fear! Allergy Alli is here! I'm going to share my favorite Thanksgiving foods and recipes and best ways to avoid allergens on this fabulous day of food! Follow my posts over the next few days and learn how I celebrate Thanksgiving with food allergies!

-Alli

Flourish with Food Allergies

When I was little, I used to always ask my mom, "Why me? Why do I have food allergies?" Her simple response was that God has something special planned for me, and that I should have faith that He knows what He's doing.

As a little kid, to hear that I am special, changed my whole outlook on food allergies. My feelings of food allergies being a curse were replaced by feelings that food allergies are a blessing--that I'm meant for a greater purpose than just living day by day.

Never doubt that you are special, and that you are able to survive! You are strong because of your food allergies! Give yourself confidence! Food allergies should not control your life! You are better than that! You are meant to have food allergies for a reason and maybe one day you'll be able to help others cope, no, flourish while living with food allergies. Best of luck!

-Alli

Suggestions

Does anyone have suggestions on what to write about next? I want my blog to help you so I want to hear what you think and what you want to hear! Please comment below or post on my Facebook Page! Thank you!

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Cats

Anyone else agree? !

I hope everyone enjoyed a laugh!

Recognizing Foods

Have you ever noticed that when it comes to what food looks and tastes like, its so easy to tell brands apart? I think this happens because we (those with food allergies that is) are constantly thinking about what we are eating.

The other day I was at a dance practice for my High School spirit week, which is pretty much a battle between the grades. Anyway, at this persons house, there was a bowl of potato chips. I could almost immediately pinpoint that they were Utz brand, which I am not allergic to. I was eating some, knowing that they were safe for me, when someone asked me: "How do you know you're not allergic to them?" I answered because they look and taste like Utz. Everyone around me gave me quizzical looks, and it wasn't until that moment that I realized other people don't have the same ability to tell foods and brands apart as I do. One girl went and grabbed the bag, and when she came back with an Utz potato chip bag, everyone was very impressed.

Looking back now, I know I definitely should have asked what brand they were. I was lucky this time in guessing right, but next time I might not be. Take this as a warning to all of you with food allergies. I know many of you are like me, and are easily able to tell foods apart- however it is not worth the risk it involves by guessing! Double check! Its better to be safe than sorry!

Alli

Psychiatrist

Normally I have a little story or advice to go along with the pictures I post, but not for this one. I just thought it was funny! :)

Oreo Muffins

I did not make these- my mom discovered this recipe on
Nabisco World and that is where the picture is from.

Milk, Egg, Peanut, and Nut Free

1-3/4 cups flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 Tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/3 cup cold milk free, soy free margarine
1-1/2 Tbsp. water, 1-1/2 Tbsp. oil, 1 tsp. baking powder (Egg Substitute- mix together in separate bowl before adding to the mix)
1 cup soy milk
16 Oreo cookies coarsely chopped (about 2 cups)

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in medium bowl. Cut in margarine with pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix egg substitute together in a separate bowl and add in soy milk; whisk until well blended. Add to flour mixture; stir just until moistened. Gently stir in chopped cookies. Spoon evenly into 12 greased or paper-lined medium muffin cups.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in centers comes out clean. Remove from pan; cool slightly on wire rack and serve warm.

I really enjoyed these muffins-- and my friends do too! They can be a little dry, but as I am not a professional baker, I cannot tell you how to fix that. If anyone makes these and figures out how to fix it, let me know! In the mean time, enjoy!

Please remember to double check all ingredients for your allergens!

-Alli

My Silver Award

As most of you probably know, I created this blog as part of my Silver Award project for Girl Scouts. I've been working really hard and as of yesterday, my final report has been handed in!!! Now I just have to wait for up to 6 weeks for the Girl Scout Council of Northern New Jersey to approve it! I'll let you know when I find out!

-Alli

Feedback Please!!!

I've had this blog for almost two months now, and I would really like some feedback! I've gotten a lot of positive comments ---which I really appreciate!!!! They honestly make my day every time I read them :)  Well anyway, I want to know what you really like reading. Do you like the recipes, advice, or maybe stories? or maybe you like it when I post pictures and then make a connection to it? What don't you like about my blog? Whatever it is, I want to know! I want to make my blog the best it can be, and the only way to do that is to listen to you! So please comment on this post or comment on my blog! Thanks for following me!

-Alli

It's Not You!

Okay, so I'm a teen -- and from some of my good friends, I get questions about what it will be like dating with food allergies. What if my date wants to go out to dinner with me, or the movies? What happens if he wants to kiss me and he's eaten something I'm allergic to? (Sorry for this mom, I know this scares you). Well, I haven't yet come across this problem, but I know one thing. I cannot be embarrassed about having food allergies with my date, because at some point, if he doesn't know, it could be the matter of life or death for me. So I've thought about it, and I realized I have to be upfront about my food allergies. When the date first starts, I have to immediately tell him, "I have food allergies. I keep an Epi-Pen and Benadryl in my purse. If I ever have an allergic reaction to something I eat, you have to give these to me. Maybe sometime I can teach you how to use the Epi-Pen so in an emergency you can help me?" Not only would this little question help you stay safe, but it will also give you another opportunity to hang out with him! If the boy really cares about you, he will do anything possible to keep you safe! If he doesn't care, then maybe you should take a second look at the reasons as to why you're going out with him. Your safety is number one when it comes to dating, so don't let yourself be embarrassed. Remember that it's not your fault!

-Alli

A Close Call

The other day, I had a very close call- but because of my little brother, a food allergy accident was avoided. My brother had just gotten back from camp, and there was a bag of lemon snap cookies on the counter in a bag. I went in and grabbed some after checking the label. I asked my little brother, "Hey, are these lemon cookies good?" He immediately replied, "I don't know, I can't have them". (My little brother has all of the same food allergies as I do--except he's not allergic to carrots). I looked at him like he's crazy because I always look very carefully at labels. But just in case, I double check. He was right. At the bottom of the ingredients in small but noticeably bold type, it said "Produced on a facility that manufactures peanuts."

My brother has always been there to help me, and its been great growing up with someone that had to go through the same problems that I have had to go through. I've been able to avoid any allergic reactions for probably around two years now, and thanks to him I've been able to keep that streak going! He's the BEST!!! :)

-Alli