Dr. Hansen's Peruvian Adventure

 

Dr. Hansen and his wife, Katie, got back last night from a seven day vacation!  Believe me, it was a much deserved seven day break for the both of them.  Seven days without work, seven days without kids, seven days in a beautiful tropical oasis!  Oh wait, that's my dream vacation! OK, all of that is true except for the last part...  Dr. Hansen and Katie decided not to take my advice and go somewhere "tropical" and "relaxing" for their vacation.  They decided to take "the road less traveled"or as I like to call it... The "Man vs. Wild" vacation.  The majority of their vacation was spent hiking, sleeping on the ground and stepping over poisonous snakes and bugs.  If you don't have a good mental picture yet go turn on your TV and watch an episode of "Survivor Man". 

Dr. Hansen and his wife traveled to Urubamba Valley, Peru where they met a group of friends whom I can only assume are all big fans of the Discovery Channel as well.  Machu Picchu is a 15th Century Inca site located 2,430 metres (7,970 ft) above sea level.  Often referred to as "The Lost City of the Incas", it is perhaps the most familiar icon of the Inca World (or so Wikipedia says).  I'm going to attach a link to the Wikipedia page on Machu Picchu... that way I can stop plagiarizing.  My high school english teacher would be ashamed!  

Four days and nights Dr. Hansen, Katie and their friends hiked straight up a mountain!  With backpacks stuffed to the brim they stopped only to eat and sleep... stragglers were left behind.  In all honesty I'm not 100% sure on the accuracy of my last comment but that's what happens in the movies, so I can only assume.  Dr. Hansen did say that even though the trip was physically demanding it was as equally rewarding.  From the above image you can see Machu Pichhu is a very beautiful and picturesque place.  It is no wonder why the Inca's decided to build their most famous city atop it.  Talking to Dr. Hansen it sounded like the two of them had an amazing time.  From sampling new and "different" cuisines to enjoying an outrageously fun adventure with Katie and some of their closest friends to going the better part of a week without a shower... how could he not!?!  Everyone in the office is looking forward to see pictures from their exciting adventure to Peru. As I learn more about the trip I will share more stories with you.  Stay tuned, pictures to come.

Machu Picchu Link (as promised) : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Machu_Picchu,_Peru.jpg

March marks the end of our School visits

February has come and gone and along with it our 2011 school presentations.  Final tally had us going to 6 different schools and seeing just under 1000 students.  977 to be exact... but I wasn't counting.  =)  Each student participated in presentation that was put on by various staff members of Hansen Orthodontics.  During the presentation students (grades 1-5) watched a video, "Dudley the dinosaur and his classroom adventures"! Dental health was the theme of this adventure.  Dudley and his friends were a huge hit and provided a nice transition into the rest of our presentation.   

During our presentation we use a number of props to help illustrate our points. The first was a GIANT toothbrush.  With that we demonstarted how to properly brush your teeth on a stuffed dinosaur... which was a dead ringer for Dudley (total coincidence).  If you find yourself questioning your own brushing technique at this point in the post... please... let me know.  I will point you in the direct of nearly 1000 elementary schooler children who are now experts!  Giant floss was next!

Not only did we teach proper brushing and flossing technique but Janell her own presentation on healthy foods and healthy snack.  "Did you know what floss does for your teeth" she asked the kids.  It acts as "nature's floss"! Who would of thought?! She also went over healthy drinks to keep your teeth strong and clean.  Bad news people... soda isn't on that list.

After our presentation the kids were given the floor to ask questions about orthodontics and/or dental health.  Let me tell you first hand... they came up with some really great questions!  I was impressed.

Before leaving the students were given a goodie bag that included an activity sheet, Hansen Ortho pencil, toothpaste, free smoothie card and an award for participating in children's dental health month.  Sadly, this was their favorite part of the event!  Oh well... maybe next year it will be my explanation of tooth form and function.