Staying Vigilant

Sometimes I get tired of being so vigilant all of the time. I also get tired of facing people who think my vigilance in petty. This is why I find sharing stories so important because it keeps me focused on why I have to work hard and stay focused. The story of the young girl in Chicago breaks my heart, scares me, and at the same time, stirs me into action. These stories serve to remind and to reassure that the actions taken by parents and loved ones of children with life-threatening allergies are not without warrant. We have to stay vigilant no matter how silly others try to make us feel. I am also grateful that I have my food allergy friends who understand and share my feelings. Whether we meet face to face or simply e-mail periodically, just knowing you are out there keeps me strong.

Food Allergy Goblin

As Halloween approaches I am once again grateful for learning about the "Peanut Goblin" and wanted to share this idea with everyone who is new to trick-or-treating with a food allergy. You may have the "Milk Goblin" or the "Soy Goblin" come to your house depending on your child's allergy. At our house the "Peanut Goblin" is a creature that LOVES peanut-containing treats and candy and if you leave him some, he'll leave you a present in exchange.

We let my daughter and her little sister trick-or-treat with their friends and when we get home, we dump their candy out and toss all those containing peanuts inside the "Peanut Goblins" bag. They then place the bag on the front door step just before bed. In the morning, the bag of candy has been replaced with a present for each girl.


It is so much fun! It definitely takes the sting out of taking candy away.

Last year we went to an event where a beautiful chocolate candy containing peanuts was passed out. Instead of getting upset, my daughter said, "Wow, the Peanut Goblin is going to love this one!"

I wish each of you and your families a happy and safe Halloween.

~ Jenny