Tye-Dye Trinity

No Longer A Republican

2011-05-14T07:29:00.000-04:00

I would never, ever be a Democrat. I would sooner
die. However, the Republican party has continually
let me down by ignoring the Conservatives of the party.
They have no one to face Obama and if he should win
again, I will leave the country.

So, now I am looking into the Tea Party which seems
to pay attention to it's members. I am done with the
Republicans and sorely disappointed in John Boehner.

On a lighter note, WAY TO GO SEAL TEAM SIX IN
KILLING OSAMA BIN LADEN. YOU GUYS ROCK!!!!

Not Care

2011-04-24T19:30:00.002-04:00

I swear, there must not be one person out there that cares about what's happening to our country and in the world because I still have not received any comments from anybody on any of it.

So, when it all goes down the toilet and I am living in a different country, don't come crying to me

"NOT INVOLVED"

2011-04-24T13:20:00.000-04:00

We were told when we sent troops to sit off Lybia (mostly Marines I believe), basically, 'we are not going to have troops on the ground or become involved in any way'. I swear these people love to lie. I heard this morning on the news that we sent Drone(s) over Lybian airspace. Did not hear if we did anything or just some pictures. But, guess what?? That makes us involved!!!! We need to get out of there and get out of there now.

Anybody remember Somalia and that mess? The Baltic states (former Yugoslavia) and that mess? Do we honestly want to do that and go through that again?? Absolutely not. I believe there is a time and place when war or military intervention is needed by the United States, but this is definitely not one of those times!!

And when the time comes, and it will, will Obama help Israel? Nope.
'

Gettysburg Address

2011-04-22T12:10:00.000-04:00

I just listened to President Lincoln give the Gettysburg Address again and it so moved me (as always). However, I thought that the with our country "dying" as I read someone say earlier and because we are essentially losing our country to these Socialists/Marxists/Communists/Neo-Nazi's, that they needed reminded who they work for and we can hire them or fire them.

Also, I think it is a good boost for us, The People; a rally cry. Read it. Read it again. Print it off and post it somewhere to remind you. Highlight was is special to you in the speech. NOW, we need to get to work and I hope this speech will inspire you who aren't working to save our country and encourage those who already are working on it!

THE GETTYSBURG ADDRESS

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate -- we can not consecrate -- we can not hallow -- this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us -- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion -- that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain -- that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom -- and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

########################################################################

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

HELLO??? IS EVERYONE OUT THERE DEAD???

2011-04-21T22:55:00.000-04:00

I am getting ready to hit the hay and I was looking over my blog. I realized that hardly EVER does anyone comment on it at all. Do you not read my blog? Not like my blog? Have nothing to say? I have said some pretty "hot issues" and not one word from you out there?

What's the deal? I write about what I think needs to be written about whether people like it or not. However, I don't know if people do not like it or not because NOBODY COMMENTS!

PLEASE,PLEASE COMMENT. I love the feedback. And besides, I am wondering if people really care about what I am writing about at that particular time; some, lately most, are SERIOUS issues. Are you dead out there? Don't care? Like watching your country go down the toilet? What?

Goodnight.

Hahaha!, Lybia, and Credit Rating

2011-04-21T14:05:00.000-04:00

I think it's absolutely hilarious that Obama got caught live yelling at a reporter and EVERYONE heard it!!! It just shows his truly colors once again. They are coming through more and more; have you noticed? And he still treats the American people as though we are the dumbest people on earth with the way he "talks" to us.

We have no business being "involved" in Lybia! The only reason we are is because Obama and Qaddafi are best buds and both Muslims. My serious concern is that when all these Middle East countries quit fighting amongst themselves (in their own countries), guess where they are all going to go? Israel. And who does Obama despise? Israel? We are in such deep trouble.

Our credit rating was dropped to the negative as a country. I heard on FoxNews yesterday from a financial analyst that on paper, we are basically a "Third World Country"! Geez. Way to go Obama! And yet he's still printing money in the basement of the White House which, say it with me, DEVALUES the dollar. Most European countries won't even accept dollars anymore!

Socialist, Communist, Neo-Nazi?

The Singles Post

2011-04-04T21:08:00.000-04:00

Well, I will say here what I said on fb. I am disappointed that there has been no response, except one, about my posting on Sunday about Singles and the Churches. I did not hear from one Christian (except the one I mentioned) or even one Church. I am astounded!

Do we (singles) not matter to you as a Church Body? Should we not be able to have time to fellowship together as singles? I feel like we do not matter in the church. If you're single and even close to 40 or over, well, forget it, we're not going to have any single activities for you.

So, I guess its back to the bars and nightclubs. Way to go Churches!

Singles in the Church

2011-04-03T12:50:00.000-04:00

I asked this question on facebook yesterday and did not receive any responses. So, I thought I would try here and see if it provoked any response.

I am in my early 40s and single. I have been looking for a singles group at a church. I like my church and would like to stay there, however, they have no singles group either (and they are big enough for one). I have been attending there for almost 1 1/2 yrs off and on and asked several times about a singles group and they keep saying they are working on it, but so far nothing. I really feel like I need it. I have been single for 3 yrs now and its time.

So, I called around to some other decent sized churches here in town, and nope, they do not have singles groups. Then I called several large churches in the city next to us (which is bigger of course) and some of them do have singles groups, but they are only for those in their 20s and 30s, they do not allow anyone older in the group.

So, here is my thing. Why are churches basically ignoring those of us who are over 40 and single?? Do they not think that we need fellowship and time with each other? Are we supposed to go to church and wear name tags that say 'Hi, I am single'. I do not understand why churches are not reaching out to this group of people. They are missing out (the churches).

We need a singles group as much as the younger groups. We've experienced life; some of us have been married and divorced, widowed or what-have-you. It would enrich us to be able to get together and share our stories, some of us are still hurting, but also just talk about daily things and HAVE FUN!

So, can anyone answer me why churches seem to ignore those who are single and over 40? I do not understand it at all. They have things for kids, teens, young adults, etc., but nothing for us. It really kind of hurts me that there is nothing there for us. Where are we supposed to turn to? Bars? Dance clubs? The lonely hearts club?? I am truly at a loss.

Please, please, if someone has an answer or suggestions, please let me know because I do not know where to turn to from here. I honestly don't.

Obama

2011-04-02T12:16:00.000-04:00

I would like to know why Obama is getting away with not asking Congress beforehand or speaking to the American people till 10 DAYS afterwards concerning Lybia! If this were a Republican, the Dems would be having a huge fit! Why does Obama get a pass?

Did he just wake up one day and say, 'Oh, I think I will send troops to Lybia'? There are I don't know how many of our planes in the region, 2,000 Marines on their way and "secret" boots on the ground already! Why are people not more up in arms about this? We should be. He has yet broken another Constitutional Law!

We have got to stop him and stop him now. He's already ruined our country enough! If we let it go on another 2 yrs., it will take years for us to repair the damage!!!

I am so sick of his smug attitude and his narcissistic ways. Its all about him. Not about the people of this great country. It's look how good I look on TV, look at the sound bite I said and they'll believe it, etc., etc.

GET OFF YOUR BUTTS AND DO SOMETHING!

Get involved locally, state or federally, but we've got to stop Obama. I am about to go picket in front of the White House myself I am so angry. And what makes me more angry is that I don't see a lot of American people standing up and saying enough is enough! If you are, then speak up! SPEAK LOUDLY!

ONCE AGAIN I WILL SAY: IT'S TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR COUNTRY!

Middle East

2011-03-26T14:47:00.000-04:00

If Obama says that we went to Lybia on a humanitarian basis, then what about the rest of the Middle East that is going through the same thing? Syria, Yemen etc. Can anyone tell me that?

I say we stay out of it all and let them fight it out themselves. As far as I know, there is no security threat from any of this, at this time, to the United States. So, what's the big deal?

And where do they all get off blaming Israel for all of this? Israel hasn't done anything, that I know of.

Give me your thoughts and questions. Do you agree, disagree, what do you think? I think Obama is an idiot, that's what I think. And he didn't go before the American people or ask Congress; that's a big no-no.

Lybia

2011-03-25T14:32:00.000-04:00

Why are we in Lybia? Can anyone tell me? Why did Obama not address the American people or ask Congress before he and the others took this action?

Now that we are in it, our supposed "allies" in the endeavor are back-paddling like crazy. So, we are going to be left there with the English and the French.

Obama has no plan. He doesn't know what he's doing and we are going to end up in a big mess! Once again the Idiot runs the White House (and went to Rio while all of this was going on).

Duh!

Well, Well

2011-02-25T08:04:00.000-05:00

The Middle East is blowing up; gas prices are skyrocketing; Obama and Admin are in Contempt of Court over drilling. Obama tells people to put off taking their vacations and then someone from their family went to Colorado to ski!

He has not said a word about the Middle East; about the reporters who've been assaulted and sexually assaulted; he has not said a word about the 2 border guard agents who were killed in OUR COUNTRY (New Mexico), seriously this dude out to lunch! And he's secretly meeting with lobbyists!!

And how in the world did Rohm Emanuel win the Mayors race in Chicago? Last I heard, you had to live there a year before you ran for office. Then it was in court and it didn't look good for him (and I might add, wasn't fair to the others), and the next thing I know, he's Mayor. Guess the mob and good ole boys network is still alive and well up there.

Hmm. Good ole' boy network sounds like here. Doesn't it just make ya sick?

Egypt

2011-01-28T17:55:00.000-05:00

What will happen in Egypt? What will it mean to that country? What will it mean to the Middle East? What will it be to our country. Pay attention to what is happening there.

New RNC Chairman

2011-01-16T12:14:00.000-05:00

We have a new Republican National Committee Chairman. He is Reince Preibus from Wisconsin. I am glad to be rid of Mr. Steele. He seemed more interested in 'face time' and running up the RNC's debt than anything else.

As I understand it, the Chairman of the RNC's job is more 'behind the scenes'. I think and hope that Mr. Preibus' first order of business will be to get us out of debt. This debt in inexcusable.

Then I think his second order of business should be to encourage those who have a chance, to run for President in 2012 (next year). It is coming up fast. Then, to stand behind State and Local races on the Republican side.

I think that the Party needs to be more open to including the true Conservatives as well as the Tea Party. That popped up because the Conservatives and others didn't feel like they were being included or heard. So, Mr. Preibus, please listen to us and consider what we have to say.

May God bless you as you begin your new job. May you seek His guidance, His wisdom, and most of all, His direction.

May God Bless America.

Arizona

2011-01-12T11:30:00.000-05:00

My heart and sympathies go out to those who were injured and killed in the Arizona shooting. I especially feel a heavy heart over the little girl who was just beginning her life. To be born on 9/11, such an awful day, and to die on such an awful day, must be more than her parents can bear. They and everyone else is in my thoughts and prayers and I pray they feel the Lord's presence around them.

I must speak a word about how Congress, particularly the Democrats, are behaving after this incident. Have they forgotten the Constitution? Have they forgotten the 2nd Amendment? Making more laws is not going to stop the bad guys from still obtaining guns and other weapons. Get a grip.

May the Lord Bless and Keep Everyone involved in this incident; the injured, the dead, their families, and even those who helped.

A Sad Goodbye

2011-01-11T12:18:00.001-05:00

A sad goodbye to Major Dick Winters whose inspiration was part of "Band of Brothers". He died on January 2nd of this year of Parkinson Disease. Thank you for your service Major Winters and a big salute to you! We admired your tenacity and will miss you! God Bless you and all of the "Boys" of Easy Company.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hI3J6q6LNX4

So long Major Winters, you will always be in our hearts, as will the rest of Easy Company.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011!!!

2011-01-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year 2011! Isn't it amazing how fast time flies! I pray that this year is better than last year, whatever your situation. I pray the Lord blesses you and yours and that you listen to Him when He speaks to you.
Bless your neighbors and friends. If they are in need, help them if you can. Sometimes they just need someone to listen. Be careful out there! Get out there and change the world!Chis Tomlin: God of thie Cityhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uzDJ6yQVPw

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVE

2010-12-31T09:19:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year's Eve. Let's hope next year is better (politically as well as jobs). Anyways, and I promised myself I wouldn't get political! Now for the traditional song:

Robert Burns as Sung By Dougie McClean on the Tribute Album: Auld Lang Syne.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acxnmaVTlZA

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T16:09:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas! For Christmas, I wanted to share "Silent Night" with you in German. For most, if not all of my family, it was our native tongue before we came to America. Enjoy, you know the tune!

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DEUTSCH

Music: Franz Xaver Gruber, 1818
Words: Joseph Mohr, 1816/1818

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,
Alles schläft; einsam wacht
Nur das traute hochheilige Paar.
Holder Knabe im lockigen Haar,
Schlaf in himmlischer Ruh!
Schlaf in himmlischer Ruh!

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,
Hirten erst kundgemacht
Durch der Engel Halleluja,
Tönt es laut von fern und nah:
Christ, der Retter ist da!
Christ, der Retter ist da!

Stille Nacht, heilige Nacht,
Gottes Sohn, o wie lacht
Lieb' aus deinem göttlichen Mund,
Da uns schlägt die rettende Stund'.
Christ, in deiner Geburt!
Christ, in deiner Geburt!

Heute singt man nur die Strophen 1, 6 und 2 (oben) von der originellen Joseph-Mohr-Version (1816).

ENGLISH

Music: Franz Xaver Gruber, 1818
Words: John Freeman Young, 1863

Silent night, holy night
All is calm all is bright
'Round yon virgin Mother and Child
Holy infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night,
Shepherds quake at the sight.
Glories stream from heaven afar,
Heav'nly hosts sing Alleluia;
Christ the Savior is born
Christ the Savior is born

Silent night, holy night,
Son of God, love's pure light.
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth

Today only verses 1, 6 and 2 (above) from the original Joseph Mohr version (1816) are sung.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas Eve! I thought I would share with you one of my most favorite Christmas songs. Hope you enjoy it!

Eartha Kitt: Santa Babyhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MBvCyF7aMU
:~)

Another Christmas Song

2010-12-21T19:57:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas song for ya'll. We are definitely gonna have a white Christmas! Yea! ;~)

Sugarland: O Come Emanuel
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEeScUAJDyw

A Little Christmas

2010-12-20T12:53:00.000-05:00

Since it's getting close to Christmas, I thought I would post a Christmas song on here every day until Christmas. Enjoy!

Kenny Chesney: All I Want for Christmas is A Real Good Tan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqmwA7rd9EE

He Speaks

2010-12-16T11:50:00.000-05:00

Well, he's going to speak again. He'll have nothing to say. He never does. He just gets on tv everyday because it's all about me,me, me with him. I can't even watch him anymore because he just lies. He talks and talks from his dear telepromters, then if he's asked a question, he blabs for several minutes never answering the questions because he doesn't know the answer!

Now is the time to move! Now is the time to take our country back. He's down and we need to keep him down and get on the ball to get our rights back. Repeal the healthcare bill, keep the tax hikes, but dump the unemployment extensions and keep the don't ask, don't tell. Get with it. Speak up people. Write to your representatives and senators and then get out in the streets and march! Demand the we have the country back that our Founding Fathers intended for us to have.

2011 will be the year. If we don't do it then, we'll lose our country forever and we are close to that now. Think about this during the Christmas season. Remember that Christ came to earth and died to save us all from our sin. Now it's our turn to save our country. Get off the couch and do it. I expect to see people in the streets protesting after the new year. Reclaim your country. Get the Pledge back into the classrooms; make it ok to pray at Graduations; all these little liberties we have let go, we need to get back, not just the big ones. Prepare yourself to do it!

God Bless America!

Snow

2010-12-16T10:15:00.000-05:00

We had a 'winter storm' last night. About 4-5 inches of snow and about 1/4 inch of ice on top of that. It's a little bit of a mess; you could ice skate on the street! But I still say, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow. But they can leave the ice out of it.

Christmas Time!!!

2010-12-03T17:30:00.005-05:00

Well, 'it's beginning to look like Christmas' as the song goes. It has certainly gotten cold and tonight/tomorrow we are under a Winter Weather Advisor until 7pm tomorrow night. I love it! I love the Christmas time of year! So, I will leave a few winter/Christmas songs.

Nat King Cole Trio: Chesnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cubgWvBfs24

Bing Crosby: White Christmas
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PA45TnJQxhU

The Boston Pops: Sleigh Ride

Directed by the Great John Williams
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4rSocVAD6c

Have a good, snowy weekend! :~)

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-25T12:15:00.003-05:00

Today will be a non-political day (unless something really huge happens).

I wanted to take this time to wish a Happy Thanksgiving to all of you out there! May you enjoy your fellowship and time with your family. I also want to give a special thanks to our troops who are serving us and keeping us safe, whether here in the USA or somewhere else in the world.

Pray for our nation as we struggle to find our way. To return it to the way it is supposed to be; the way our Founding Fathers meant it to be.

God Bless All of You and God Bless America!

We Gather Together by The Celtic Women
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0JVqR8KnF4

God Bless America by Kate Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCavKL2zdjM

FEDERAL GRANTS?????

2010-11-23T14:29:00.003-05:00

Now, this has got to top the cake so to speak. Now the Mosque or whatever it is supposed to be that is being built close to ground zero, now they are asking for FEDERAL GRANTS to help build it???? Can you believe this?? It's bad enough that they are building it where they are, but then to have the nerve to ask for Federal Grants!!!

If this were any other religion/church, Obama and his cronies would turn this down flat! But since it's Muslims, and we don't want to offend them, heaven help us, they (Obama administration) is actually probably considering it!! I believe that if this group is given Federal Grants to build their building, then any/and all churches should be given Federal Grant money when it is requested for building purposes!!

I am so tired of all of this. Obama is certainly NOT doing his job. He's out travelling (wasting our money), or playing basketball or golfing. Does anyone know how many days he has actually spent in the Oval office doing his job? It would be curious to know.

As I will continue to say: STAND UP PEOPLE and TAKE YOUR COUNTRY BACK. If you don't do it now, it will be too late, and that day is fast approaching!!!

NO FEDERAL GRANTS!!!!

Arms Deal

2010-11-20T14:45:00.003-05:00

So, now we hear that Obama, without informing the public of America and over concerns of those in Congress, has made a $60 Billion deal to sell arms to Saudi Arabia!!! What is he (Obama) thinking? Does he not remember that most if not all of the 9/11 hijackers came from Saudi Arabia.

Plus, they have us over a barrel, literally, because Obama won't allow any drilling for our own oil here in our own country. We have tons of it, use it! Quit buying it from people who can jerk you around like this on the price of oil which sets the price for gas. For pete's sake!

If you wanna check out the arms deal, go to www.abcnews.go.com

Have fun! Stand up people! Obama is destroying this country! WAKE UP!

NYC Terrorist Trial

2010-11-19T12:26:00.004-05:00

I am so angry and frustrated that I cannot begin to put it into words! First of all, to try this man (who was on trial for the Embassy bombings in Africa several years ago), in a civilian court and give him the rights that a citizen has in court, come on now! That's just plain stupid. He should have been tried at a Military Tribunal.

But wait....

What tops it off is that he is only found guilty on 1 count, conspiracy!! Can you believe this? He was charged with 200 some murders and other charges and that's all they convict him on?!?!?! Where are these peoples' (the jury) minds??? What if they had found him not guilty on all counts? Would they just let him walk free, free to continue to participate in his terrorist activities? Whose fault would that be?

This is an embarrassment to our country. It's also an embarrassment to this administration (not that I think they are worth 2 cents). I believe Eric Holder should resign his position as AG and that all future trials with any kind of terrorist should be Military Tribunals!!

I am sick of this administration and their Socialist/Marxist ways. They have broken so many parts of the Constitution (and Obama supposed to be a Constitutional lawyer!), it's destroying our country! They need to go! The whole administration, and take Pelosi and Reed with them.

It's makes me feel embarrassed as an American citizen.

End of the Day

2010-11-18T22:35:00.002-05:00

It's about 1040pm and I am tired. I like the "fall back" thing, but for some reason my body is having a hard time with it this year. Springing forward is just awful.

Anyhow, it's been a good day. It's cold outside though (wishing I had a fireplace) and supposed to be colder tomorrow. Brrrr. Wishin' I was someplace warm.

Talk to ya'll later.....

Leave with ya one of my favorite Kenny Chesney songs, "Old Blue Chair" and wishin' I was there.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3-_omoYPsI

Night

If Republicans Are Serious About Budget Cutting....

2010-11-18T11:32:00.003-05:00

If Republicans Are Serious About Budget Cutting...
By Mark Alexander · Thursday, November 18, 2010

Start by identifying expenditures and taxes which are not expressly authorized by our Constitution, and schedule them for termination
"I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the Constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending, on objects of benevolence, the money of their constituents." --James Madison
With a new Republican House majority on the way, the first real test of whether they will part ways with old spending habits met with a mixed response.

House Republicans lined up behind John Boehner, the speaker-elect of the House for the 112th Congress, and House Majority Leader-elect Eric Cantor, pledging overwhelming support for a measure to eliminate earmarks -- those small (merely $15.9 billion) and unrelated special-interest add-ons attached to spending bills. However, as the gateway drug to bribing and cajoling our elected representatives, earmarks have become fodder for an insidious wink-and-nod spending mentality that has corrupted our legislative process.

Apparently, even most moderate Republicans in the People's House received the memo from the midterm election. They seem to understand that there's a Great Awakening of conservatives outside the Beltway -- conservatives who are going to hold them to their oaths to abide by the plain language of our Constitution and the Rule of Law it enshrines.

However, over in the House of Lords, (a.k.a. the Senate), where members are less accountable to their constituents because they only stand for re-election every six years, some Republicans were a little fuzzy on the midterm message and failed to hear the objections to earmarks.

Chief among them was Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who, as you recall, supported like-minded establishment Republican, Trey Grayson, over Kentucky's Tea Party favorite and now Senator-elect Rand Paul. McConnell, who swindled taxpayers out of $113 million for his own pet earmarks in 2009 alone, has been slow to embrace the fact that there's a new constitutional posse on the way to town. That posse will not kowtow to the old-boy Republicans who turned their back on the great conservative revolution launched by Ronald Reagan some three decades ago.

Senate Tea Party linebackers Jim DeMint (R-SC) and Tom Coburn (R-OK), with a little assist from the Johns (Cornyn, Ensign and Barrasso) impressed upon McConnell the error of his ways (and perhaps even the error of the era of his ways), and McConnell finally reversed his position. He now supports a ban on earmarks.

Keep in mind, however, that the Senate vote was only a non-binding committee resolution and a secret vote to conceal the bad guys.

"What I've concluded is that on the issue of congressional earmarks," McConnell now says, "as the leader of my party in the Senate, I have to lead first by example. Nearly every day that the Senate's been in session for the past two years, I have come down to this spot and said that Democrats are ignoring the wishes of the American people. When it comes to earmarks, I won't be guilty of the same thing."

Welcome to the party, however late, Senator McConnell. Now what about "when it comes to" other budget cuts?

Republicans top the listUnquestionably, the most nescient remarks about earmarks came from Sen. Lamar Alexander. (In case you've never heard of him, he's a two-timing, er, two-term "Republican" from my home state of Tennessee.)

Alexander said that the earmark moratorium was just "a timeout" in order to "permit Congress to limit the number of earmarks." He then appended his remarks with this stupefying addendum: "Cleaning up earmarks ... would undermine the Constitution."

Well, since he was kind enough to bring it up, I suggest that if the next Congress is serious about budget reform, it should consider this novel question: What does our Constitution actually authorize the central government to tax and spend?

Now, don't expect Republicans to open up that can of worms with unanimity, but the question will be asked, and now with greater frequency and conviction than since Madison's celebrated objection to unauthorized spending back when it first reared its head in 1794: "I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the Constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending, on objects of benevolence, the money of their constituents."

Roger Pilon, director of Cato's Center for Constitutional Studies, aptly sums up the problem: "Over the 20th century, the federal government has assumed a vast and unprecedented set of powers. Not only has the exercise of those powers upset the balance between federal and state governments; run roughshod over individuals, families, and firms; and reduced economic opportunity for all; but most of what the federal government does today -- to put the point as plainly and candidly as possible -- is illegitimate because it is done without explicit constitutional authority. The time has come to start returning power to the states and the people, to re-limit federal power in our fundamental law, to restore constitutional government."

My colleagues Ed Feulner and Brian Riedl at the Heritage Foundation have laid out some clear budget-cutting objectives for the next Congress. Feulner has published a Checklist for Congress, and Riedl has outlined more than $343 billion in cuts for the fiscal 2012 budget.

As for "leadership" on the Left, apparently Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid will still be piping the Demos down the road to demise for the next couple years, so the opportunity for Republicans to contrast fiscally conservative measures with those of the Socialist Bourgeoisie on the Left has never been greater.

Article VI of our Constitution reads, in part, "This constitution, and the Laws of the United States which shall be made in Pursuance thereof ... shall be the supreme Law of the Land." It continues, "The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the Members of the several State Legislatures, and all executive and judicial Officers, both of the United States and of the several States, shall be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution."

For the record, "bound by Oath" means obligated to uphold the Rule of Law established by our Constitution, not the adulterated remnants of that noble document under the aegis of the "living constitution." Indeed, it is that adulterated version which generations of legislators have relied upon for their extra-constitutional taxes and spending, just as judges have done for their extra-constitutional diktats.

Madison once observed that the first American Revolution had its origin on "a minute tax of 3 pence on tea." Hopefully, no shots will need to be fired in a second revolution, but make no mistake: The second Tea Party is well under way.

: [The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)]

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I could not agree more. We have got to stop tacking these earmarks onto bills, especially at the last minute. It is costing us a fortune! Our Representatives and Senators are up on the Hill to do a job and it's not to see how much "pork" they can stuff into a bill for their own gain! STOP THE PORK!

Contact

2010-11-17T23:56:00.002-05:00

Does anyone out there know how to actually contact the RNC and lobby for Michael Steele to be booted out and someone that has more leadership brought in as chairman? If so, could you please let me know? I want to know so I can express my opinion to the RNC personally on my feelings towards Michael Steele.

Ok, let me know, anyone, if you have that information. Thanks a bunch!

Good night!

RNC Chairman

2010-11-17T13:51:00.003-05:00

Michael Steele has to go! He hasn't done anything but damage our party. He's been more concerned with himself and the book or books he is writing. There has been no leadership in our party since he stepped into office.

The only reason the Republicans did so well in the recent elections is because a lot of them were part of the Tea Party. They need to embrace them and us conservatives that are in the Republican party. You have left us in the dust. If you, as a party, do not start including us, then those just voted in, will be voted out in 2012 (House, at least). I attribute all of this to the non-leadership of Michael Steele.

We need someone who is more conservative as the RNC Chairman. Now, this person should be able to work with the middle, more moderate, part of the party, however, the conservatives need to be heard as well or we will end up leaving the party and joining the Tea Party. Then there will be a true 3 party election in 2012.

It's up to you, those of that are on the Republican National Committee, to chose the right person for the Chairman's job.....and it is not Michael Steele.

Republicans and Conservatives

2010-11-13T13:26:00.003-05:00

The Republicans have really got to stop whining about 'if the tea party hadn't run here or there, we would have won that seat' stuff. I swear, they sound like they are in high school!

I am a registered Republican, but my own party is starting to really tick me off. They have moved more and more to the middle (moderate) and left us conservatives out; how do you think the Tea Party came about? Most of us conservatives are sick and tired of the Republican party ignoring us or leaving us out.

The Republicans need to start a) doing their job or they will be out of office in 2012 and b) start listening to us Conservatives or there will be a third party for good! And Michael Steele, chairman of the RNC, has to go!!!! He's part of the problem also.

So, Republicans, stop complaining about the Conservatives or Tea Partiers, listen to them, work with them or our party will split, I can almost promise you that!!!

I guess that's all I have to say. Republicans need to grow up and get down to business, fire Michael Steele, and most importantly, listen to us Conservatives!! We, after all, used to be your base and you will lose us if you do not pay attention to us!!!

Digest

2010-10-30T14:41:00.002-04:00

Digest
Friday, October 29, 2010

The Foundation
"I know no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves." --Thomas Jefferson

Government & Politics

What to Watch For Tuesday

Harry Reid is sweating TuesdayAs Tuesday's mid-term elections near, Democrats are facing historic losses in Congress. Granted, this isn't because voters love the GOP -- far from it. It's because Democrats have done an even more abysmal job of governing than Republicans did. Here are a few races to watch.

Nevada: Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid is trailing in most polls to Sharron Angle, who came out of nowhere to win the GOP primary thanks to backing by the Tea Party. Despite having a massive campaign war chest in a state that Barack Obama won by 12 points just two years ago, Reid could very well join Tom Daschle as Democrat leaders who lost re-election.

Illinois: Obama may be in for particular embarrassment in his home state, as GOP Congressman Mark Kirk leads Democrat Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias for Obama's former Senate seat. Normally, Illinois would be in the "safe" column for Democrats -- not this year.

Delaware: Can Christine O'Donnell pull off the upset against Democrat Chris Coons to take Joe Biden's former Senate seat? It's not likely, as she trails by double digits in the polls. However, the Leftmedia have taken a particular interest in taking out O'Donnell, which makes us wonder if this race is closer than it seems.

Alaska: Incumbent Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski has mounted a surprisingly successful write-in campaign after losing the primary to Tea Party-backed attorney and Army vet Joe Miller. If voters can remember how to spell her name, she has a chance to become the first winning write-in candidate since Strom Thurmond (R-SC) in 1954.

Democrat Senate incumbents are likely to lose in Arkansas and Wisconsin, and Democrats are certain to lose seats that retiring senators Evan Bayh and Byron Dorgan are vacating in Indiana and North Dakota, respectively. In Pennsylvania, Democrat Joe Sestak is trailing conservative Republican Pat Toomey, and in West Virginia, popular Democrat Gov. Joe Manchin is neck-and-neck with businessman John Raese in his bid to assume the late Robert Byrd's seat. Manchin is campaigning hard against Obama, who is deeply unpopular there.

Two late-concluding Senate races that bear watching are in California and Washington. If Republican Carly Fiorina can knock off the loathsome Barbara Boxer in the Golden State, and if Dino Rossi can eke out a win against Patty Murray in Washington, Republicans may well pull off the 10-seat swing they need to take control of the Senate.

In the House, Democrat prospects look even worse. Multiple committee chairmen are sweating it out, including Jim Oberstar of Minnesota, Ike Skelton of Missouri and John Spratt of South Carolina. Even Barney Frank, chairman of the powerful House Financial Services Committee, is in trouble in Massachusetts. Republican Sean Bielat, a Marine and businessman, is charging hard, and Frank is stuck below 50 percent in the polls, which is dangerous territory for a long-time incumbent. Michigan's 85-year-old John Dingell, who's been in Congress since 1955 and is the longest-serving member in that body's history, is also in a tight race against Dr. Rob Steele, a fiscally conservative cardiologist bent on repealing ObamaCare.

Veteran political guru Charlie Cook says of the number of seats Democrats will lose, "To be honest, I think the odds are higher that it's over 60 than under 40." Republicans need to take 39 net seats to gain control of the House. Cook declared that he'll be "sacking groceries" if that doesn't happen. Across the nation, the electorate is riled up. According to Rasmussen, "65% of Likely U.S. Voters say if they had the option next week, they would vote to get rid of the entire Congress and start all over again." Sounds good to us.

Perhaps Michelle Obama summed it up best: "This year's elections are just too important to sit out. There's so much at stake right now for our future and for our children's future."

Fellow Patriots, this is a critical election, the first of many battles in our fight to restore Essential Liberty and the Rule of Law. Be sure to bring a few like-minded friends to the polls with you.

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)].

Founder's Quote Daily

2010-10-07T09:42:00.003-04:00

Founder's Quote Daily
Wednesday, October 6, 2010

"The spirit of resistance to government is so valuable on certain occasions, that I wish it to be always kept alive. It will often be exercised when wrong, but better so than not to be exercised at all. I like a little rebellion now and then. It is like a storm in the atmosphere."

–Thomas Jefferson, letter to Abigail Adams, 1787

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)].

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This quote is so true. I think its time for a little rebellion against the government. We don't want them taking us to death, telling us what to eat or drink, telling us what health insurance to have, what Church to go to (if we are allowed to go to Church), or even invade or bedrooms!

It's time for it to stop. So, let's have some rebellion, after all, WE are their bosses, not the other way around.

Rats Deserting the (Sinking) Ship!!!

2010-10-03T12:27:00.003-04:00

Well, it has begun! The 'Rats' are deserting what they perceive (as the rest of us do) a sinking ship! The following people have already left or are leaving the administration soon.

Rahm Emanuel
Kal Penn
Steve Rettner
Ezra Klein
Lawrence Summers
Christina Romer
Herbert Allison
Peter Orzsag
Robert Gibbs (rumor, that is being denied, so draw your own conclusions).

Goodbye ya'll! The more the merrier! We won't miss ya! Bye-Bye, now!

With Friends Like These...Who Needs Enemies??

2010-10-02T14:21:00.004-04:00

The Demo-gogues

Obama gives voters a lectureWith friends like these... "People need to shake off this lethargy. People need to buck up. ... If people now want to take their ball and go home, that tells me folks weren't serious in the first place. ... It is inexcusable for any Democrat or progressive right now to stand on the sidelines in this midterm election. ... The idea that we've got a lack of enthusiasm in the Democratic base, that people are sitting on their hands complaining, is just irresponsible." --Barack Obama hammering his own base in an interview with Rolling Stone

"[I want to] remind our base constituency to stop whining and get out there and look at the alternatives. This president has done an incredible job. He's kept his promises." --Joe Biden on the same talking points

"And so those who don't get -- didn't get everything they wanted, it's time to just buck up here, understand that we can make things better, continue to move forward and -- but not yield the playing field to those folks who are against everything that we stand for in terms of the initiatives we put forward." --Joe Biden

"We have an electorate that doesn't always pay that much attention to what's going on so people are influenced by a simple slogan rather than the facts or the truth or what's happening." --Sen. John Kerry (D-MA), another snotty elitist lecturing voters

The GOP's best friend: "[I]f we allow this to be a referendum on whether people are happy where they are now, we'll lose." --Joe Biden

But on the other hand: "I guarantee you we're going to have a majority in the House and a majority in the Senate. I absolutely believe that." --Biden

Patronizing: "There are strains in the Tea Party that are troubled by what they saw as a series of instances in which the middle-class and working-class people have been abused or hurt by special interests and Washington, but their anger is misdirected." --Barack Obama

"[Fox News has] a point of view that I disagree with. It's a point of view that I think is ultimately destructive for the long-term growth of a country that has a vibrant middle class and is competitive in the world." --Obama in the Rolling Stone interview

On fiscal responsibility: "What I'm seeing out of the Republican leadership over the last several years has been a set of policies that are just irresponsible, and we saw in their Pledge to America a similar set of irresponsible policies. ... [Although GOP leaders] say they want to balance the budget, they propose $4 trillion worth of tax cuts and $16 billion in spending cuts, and then they say we're going to somehow magically balance the budget. That's not a serious approach." --Barack Obama, who must consider Republicans amateurs when it comes to blowing money

: [The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)].

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Go ahead and keep that up Obama, Biden and Kerry! That's exactly the way to win votes, by insulting your voters!!!!! ;~)

The Difference Between Bush 2 and Obama

2010-09-29T13:14:00.002-04:00

Just to compare!! This is how the soldiers feel. How Marines welcome a President. It seems the US Marines know something that many of the civilian population do not ...
Take 2 minutes to watch this comparison between George Bush's visit to the Marines vs Obama's recent trip. It is incredible.

YouTube. Obama's people are working hard to get it removed.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIHz5tevLAw

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Says a lot doesn't it? Semper Fi Devil Dogs!

Leaving Out God

2010-09-25T12:46:00.001-04:00

Leaving Out God
By Ken Blackwell (Archive) · Wednesday, September 22, 2010

It was certainly reassuring to see the president and first lady coming out of St. John's Episcopal Church last Sunday. With all the confusion about the president's religion, we can be sure that the very liberal historic parish will provide a warm welcome to the first family. And they're unlikely to hear anything as unsettling as "God d____ America" coming from St. John's elegantly carved pulpit.

Folk wisdom tells us there are no atheists in foxholes. President Obama has surely been feeling like a combat soldier in recent weeks. With all the heavy criticisms raining down on him like incoming mortar shells, and with his own team members seeming to run away from him on the political battlefield, the president needs all the prayers he can get. Cynics might say that this is another battlefield conversion, that Obama never felt the need for such fellowship when he was above 70 percent approval in the polls. In those halcyon days, Newsweek editor Evan Thomas was hailing Obama as "a sort of God." No more.

But just when you thought it was safe for the president to slip back into the pew, he started a whole new round of speculation about what he really believes. While addressing the Congressional Hispanic Caucus last week, Obama began to recite key passages of the Declaration of Independence and slipped up. Or did he?

He enumerated the "certain inalienable rights" part beautifully. He even listed the right to life. (Hmmm. How does that comport with an Obamacare law that if unrepealed would subsidize abortion and thus deny the right to life to millions yet unborn? Well, Barack Obama is hardly the only liberal who manages to declare such pesky questions "above my pay grade.") The trouble came when Obama omitted who endowed the people with these inalienable rights, "their Creator."

The White House is trying to tamp down any controversy: The president was merely paraphrasing. "Don't try to read anything into this" is the administration line.

But it does matter. The Weekly Standard's Jeffrey Anderson certainly thinks so:

"Only two plausible explanations spring to mind. One is that President Obama isn't very familiar with the most famous passage in the document that founded this nation; that even when plainly reading from a teleprompter, he wasn't able to quote it correctly. The other is that President Obama doesn't subscribe to the Declaration's rather central claim that our rights come from our 'Creator' (also referred to in the Declaration as 'Nature's God' and 'the Supreme Judge of the World').

"Only the president likely knows for certain which of these two explanations is true, or whether perhaps there is another. His nearly 4-second pause before he omits reference to our Creator, however, is peculiar. He stares at the teleprompter, purses his lips, blinks several times — as if confused, disturbed, and/or in the process of making a decision — and then proceeds to use his alternate wording [see the clip here starting at the 22:30 mark]."

Anderson had earlier reported on the present administration's apparent discomfort with the Declaration of Independence. In its groveling and apologetic report to the UN Human Rights Council—a body graced by such respecters of the rights of humans as China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and Cuba—the Obama administration managed to omit any reference to the world's greatest document on human rights: our own Declaration.

President Obama is not the only liberal to have such problems acknowledging the Creator. Take for example a nice new publication from the American Constitution Society for Law and Policy (ACS)—a Federalist Society for liberals that might be viewed as an incubator for the Obama Justice Department or even for Obama nominees to the federal courts.

Princeton Professor Robby George noted in First Things that he recently picked up a handy little pamphlet published by ACS with the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and—most welcome—Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. But when he carefully scanned Lincoln's immortal words as delivered on that hallowed ground, Professor George noted they had left out two: "under God."

How bold! Surely the liberals at ACS know that Lincoln's words are carved into stone at the memorial that bears his name. Surely some of them have been to the National Cemetery at Gettysburg and seen the speech text, also engraved in stone.

We are left to conclude that for the liberal left, our rights do not come from God. They come, instead, from government pronouncements, from UN documents, or from the courts. This is a most disturbing conclusion. And it goes to the heart of who we are as a people.

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)].

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When will we will as Christians stand up, not only for ourselves, but for our country?? When will YOU act? Will you wait until you're told which Church to go to?? Will you wait until you cannot go to Church at all? Will you wait until they ban Bibles?? The time to act is NOW!

September 11, 2010

2010-09-11T13:16:00.005-04:00

It has been 9 years since we were viciously attacked in NYC, the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

It seems that the further away we get from the actual day, the more people are "forgetting" or using it as a day to cook-out or whatever. It is such a shame. And Mr. O's administration wants it to be a day of volunteerism?? Huh? He doesn't even acknowledge what today is all about. The families remember; those who worked at Ground Zero remember, it goes on and on.

So, I say shame on those who have forgotten what this day is all about. Shame on you for forgetting all the people who died that day; for forgetting those who helped save people that day; and those who worked at ground zero, whom are now getting sick from all the junk they had to breath in working there.

Let us remember all of those who died that day. Remember those workers who worked at Ground Zero and are now becoming ill. Remember the families of both sets of those named.

I personally want to say 'Thank You' and God Bless to those who were on Flight 93 and their families. That plane flew over my house twice and could have come down at anytime during that period. However, those passengers decided to do something and brought that plane down in a field in Pennsylvania where no one else was killed. Thank you all so very much and God be with each and every one of you and your families.

Star Spangled Banner
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzkINTeCeUw

God Bless our Troops and God Bless America

NO MOSQUE!

2010-08-10T18:00:00.002-04:00

Make your voice heard! NO MOSQUE AT GROUND ZERO!!! It's a slap in the face to all of us but especially to those who lost loved ones on 9/11. Write everyone you can think of in the Federal, State (New York) and Local (New York City) to prevent this from happening!

It must be stopped!

Vacations?????

2010-07-29T12:25:00.002-04:00

7 Vacations in 18 months???? Give me a break!!! Does Obama EVER work? I would like to have 7 vacations in 18 months, how about the rest of you????

A Sad Goodbye

2010-07-13T18:48:00.002-04:00

Today, we bid a sad farewell to Mr. George Steinbrenner, owner of the New York Yankees. He died of a massive heart attack at his home in Tampa, Florida, according to news reports.

Ironically, he got his start in football. Being apart of coaching teams at Ohio State, Northwestern and Purdue, if I am not mistaken. He made his fortune in shipbuilding and bought the Yankees in 1973.

Of course, all of us Yankee fans remember his love/hate relationship with Billy Martin (we still miss you, Billy), whom he hired and fired I believe 5 times! It almost got to be comical.

Tonight is the Major League Baseball Allstar game, and I am sure they will do something to honor him, as will the Yankees win the return to home play after the break.

We will miss you, Boss. And we always loved you.

Love,
This Yankee fan.

Obama, Black Liberation Theology and Karl Marx

2010-07-12T11:25:00.001-04:00

http://www.americanthinker.com/

People need to check out this link and read about:

American Thinker: Obama, Black Liberation Theology and Karl Marx

Not good stuff. Not at all. WAKE UP AMERICA!!!

Gettysburg Address

2010-07-09T12:29:00.002-04:00

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived, and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met here on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of it as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But in a larger sense we can not dedicate - we can not consecrate - we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled, here, have consecrated it far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember, what we say here, but can never forget what they did here.

It is for us, the living, rather to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they have, thus far, so nobly carried on. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us - that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they here gave the last full measure of devotion - that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation shall have a new birth of freedom; and that this government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

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I think this is one of the greatest speeches ever made. The part we need to remember as a country is "that this government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

We are losing that government right in front of our eyes and if we don't stand up and fight, it will perish from the earth! FIGHT AMERICA! FIGHT!

Supreme Court Upholds Second Amendment Rights

2010-06-30T10:48:00.002-04:00

Supreme Court Upholds Second Amendment Rights
Monday, June 28, 2010

The United States Supreme Court issued a 5-4 ruling today that the Second Amendment does, in fact, mean what it says -- even in Chicago -- and guarantees an individual right to keep and bear arms. The case at hand was McDonald v. City of Chicago, in which the plaintiff sought to overturn Chicago's blanket ban on handguns.

The Amendment reads, "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." The Chicago ban clearly infringed on that right.

That didn't stop the Chicago Tribune from spinning in its headline, "Supreme Court extends gun rights." The Tribune lamented that the Court's decision had "extended the reach of the 2nd Amendment as a nationwide protection." Such language, of course, suggests that the Court invented the right out of thin air -- sort of like abortion on demand. Unlike abortion, however, the right to keep and bear arms is actually written down in the Constitution, in plain view for all to see.

Hans von Spakovsky of the Heritage Foundation summed up the case:

In 2008 in District of Columbia v. Heller, the Court for the first time held that the right to bear arms was an individual right. But that decision, which struck down a virtual ban on handguns and a requirement that rifles and shotguns had to be kept "unloaded and disassembled or bound by a trigger lock" in the District of Columbia, applied only to the federal government because the District is a federal enclave. What had never been decided before today's decision in McDonald v. Chicago was whether the protection of the Second Amendment is incorporated through the Fourteenth Amendment's Due Process Clause to apply to state and local governments.

The Associated Press reports, "Monday's decision did not explicitly strike down the Chicago area laws, ordering a federal appeals court to reconsider its ruling. But it left little doubt that they would eventually fall."

Predictably, the split was along ideological lines. Chief Justice John Roberts, and Justices Sam Alito, Anthony Kennedy, Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas were in the majority; Steven Breyer, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sonia Sotomayor and John Paul Stevens, who served his last day on the court Monday, dissented.

Writing for the majority, Justice Alito observed, "It is clear that the Framers and ratifiers of the Fourteenth Amendment counted the right to keep and bear arms among those fundamental rights necessary to our system of ordered liberty." Alito also wrote, "The Fourteenth Amendment makes the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms fully applicable to the States."

Justice Thomas, in a separate opinion, argued a different constitutional rationale, saying, "[The] Due Process Clause, which speaks only to 'process,' cannot impose the type of substantive restraint on state legislation that the Court asserts. Rather, the right to keep and bear arms is enforceable against the States because it is a privilege of American citizenship recognized by §1 of the Fourteenth Amendment, which provides, inter alia: 'No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States.'"

Out in left field, Justice Breyer displayed his bullheaded ignorance, writing, "[N]othing in 18th-, 19th-, 20th-, or 21st-century history shows a consensus that the right to private armed self-defense ... is 'deeply rooted in this nation's history or tradition' or is otherwise 'fundamental.'" Justice Stevens dissented separately, and suddenly became a proponent of federalism: "[T]his is a quintessential area in which federalism ought to be allowed to flourish without this court's meddling." Where was this fair-weather federalist with any number of other heavy handed rulings that took away states' rights?

As for Solicitor General Elena Kagan, Barack Obama's nominee to replace Stevens on the Court, she pleaded the Fifth. In a monumental case involving the Bill of Rights, she chose not to file so much as a brief in the case. In the past, however, she stated that she was "not sympathetic" to a District resident with a complaint similar to that eventually upheld by the Court in District of Columbia v. Heller. Put another way, Kagan is hostile to the Second Amendment.

The courts likely will now face numerous cases on other state and local gun restrictions. The Supreme Court ruled that gun ownership is an individual right, but it left open many questions regarding who, what and where. This is yet another way in which elections have consequences. For at least two and a half more years, an anti-gun leftist occupies the White House and wields the power to nominate like-minded individuals to the courts.
[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)]

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So what do ya'll think about the Supreme Court deciding its okay for us to 'bear arms', although we are already guaranteed this right in the US Constitution?? Huh?? Who gives them the right? And why do they need to do it? I will say, if it comes to a point where they decided its not okay for us to 'bear arms', they are going to have a fight on their hands; a legal fight. It's in the Constitution for petes sake!!! How can you change the Constitution on a whim??

Ugh!

I am so sick of this administration and their doing what they want and think they can do. It's possible that the Administration has committed two felonies but has anyone heard anything about it? No. Will they get punished for it? No. They should all be thrown out of office. ALL OF THEM. It's time to take our country back people. WAKE UP. If you don't you'll be living in communist America and it won't be pretty.

Surprise at Tea Party Rally

2010-06-13T11:49:00.002-04:00

1. http://us1.campaign-archive.com/?u=cd56f260723d5040008c14389&id=b584aa77ca&e=3a6f03a2c1

Now, how many of you have ever heard this second verse? I know I haven't. I think it needs and should be sung along with the first verse, which everyone is aware of, all the time, especially now.

Our country is in dire trouble and if we don't start standing up and speaking up, we are going to lose our freedoms and liberties. We need to get this country back to what the Founding Fathers intended it to be.

Let me hear your thoughts on this second verse of the Star Spangled Banner and what it means to you!

God Bless American now more than ever!!

Obituary of Helen Thomas "Reporter"

2010-06-09T10:51:00.003-04:00

This is the obituary of Helen Thomas, former White House "reporter", and I use that term very loosely. She is finally out of her job at the White House. Her big mouth has been sitting there, front and center, for years, using language that no one else would use.

And finally in the past few days we see the true Helen Thomas. The anti-Semite. The Jew hater. She probably loved Hitler when WWII was happening. She supposedly apologized, but I think it was just a token apology. She apologized because she "had" to and did not mean a word of it, in my opinion.

I honestly don't know how she managed to stay in the White House as a "reporter" for so long as it was. She was nothing but a nuisance and never had anything of substance to say or ask, in my opinion.

I am glad to see her go, especially since she showed her true colors. I don't understand why all of a sudden everyone, including the Obama administration, is bashing Jews and Israel. I thought the Benjamin Netanyahu's speech the other day was right on target and kicked butt. We need to stand with Israel and support them. Remember, when the Lord comes back, that's where it all will go down.

So, Helen Thomas: Goodbye, Adieu, Arrivederci, Farewell, Donadagohi, Sayonara, Auf Wiedersehen, Adios, Paalam, Dag, Yasaou, Ha det bra, Slan leat, and Shalom. We won't miss you!

A Congressman, A Former President and an Intern Walk Into a Bar.....

2010-06-04T11:43:00.003-04:00

The Foundation
"Is there no virtue among us? If there be not, we are in a wretched situation." --James Madison

Government & Politics

A Congressman, a Former President and an Intern Walk Into a Bar...

SestakThe plot thickens over the job offer to sitting Rep. Joe Sestak (D-PA), and it may be only a matter of time before "Sestak-gate" enters the political corruption lexicon. Late last Friday, as the news cycle wound down going into the holiday weekend, the White House issued a memo declaring that its internal investigation of the alleged job offer to Sestak revealed no improprieties. This finding was certainly no surprise, but the administration's lame explanation raises more questions than it answers.

According to the official account, Bill Clinton approached Sestak in 2009 about accepting an uncompensated position on a presidential advisory board -- this in return for Sestak's commitment to refrain from challenging Sen. Arlen Specter (D-R-D-PA) in their state's Democrat Senate primary. Sestak promptly rejected the offer and went on to win the primary last month.

There are several problems with this story, however, not the least of which is that it differs significantly from Sestak's. When Sestak first stated publicly in February that the administration had tried to get him out of the Senate primary, he claimed that he had been offered a "high-ranking job" -- not an unpaid position on an obscure presidential advisory board. Furthermore, the only board for which Sestak might qualify is the Intelligence Advisory Board, but because he's a sitting member of Congress, he cannot lawfully take part. For the administration's explanation to hold water, we would have to believe that Joe Sestak would give up a Senate run and a current House seat to take a role on an advisory board that offers no pay, no political clout and virtually no future career opportunities. Or at least none compared to being a former congressman or senator. Sestak, a liberal Democrat and retired Navy vice-admiral, has built his campaign around issues of trust and integrity; needless to say, this episode certainly could tarnish his race in the fall.

ClintonNor will the White House escape the matter by bringing in scandal magnet Bill Clinton. It's suspected that Clinton's involvement is supposed to somehow absolve the administration of any wrongdoing because it puts them at arm's length. That's not the case, however, as Clinton still appears to have acted as an agent of Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel, who, in sending Clinton, just may have violated the Hatch Act. The Hatch Act states that no federal employee may exert pressure to participate or not participate in political activity.

In related news, Deputy Chief of Staff Jim Messina may soon be facing similar questions with regard to a job offer to Senate candidate Andrew Romanoff of Colorado. Romanoff's offer to drop his bid to challenge administration favorite Michael Bennet has resurfaced this week thanks to the Sestak affair.

RomanoffRomanoff was rather vocal about his desire for a federal job during the Obama transition. He also expressed interest in a Senate appointment, which went to Bennet instead, or a shot at the lieutenant governorship slot when that opened up. It was only after he came up short all around that Romanoff turned to a Senate challenge of Bennet. (Apparently, making an honest living in the private sector never occurred to him.) Romanoff filed his papers as a candidate on Sept. 10, 2009, and the next day he received a call from Messina, who offered three separate opportunities with the U.S. Agency for International Development or the U.S. Trade Development Agency. Romanoff claims that none of the positions were guaranteed, but they would be available only if he was not already a candidate.

Since Obama's first attempt to sweep this under the rug seems to have failed, it will be interesting to see what future memos and documents have to say about what transpired in the ham-fisted political machine, er, "most transparent administration in history." To paraphrase the great political sage Forrest Gump, transparency is like a box of chocolates; you never know what you're going to get.

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost)].

Some Michael Buble Songs

2010-05-22T11:59:00.002-04:00

Michael Buble: Hold On
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOQmTmUWF0s

Michael Buble: Stardust
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIviZRTOMbM

I have loved Stardust since I was a wee kid. Hold on is just a great song. Hope you enjoy.

Primary Day

2010-05-17T14:25:00.002-04:00

Tomorrow is Primary Day here in Kentucky. I urge everyone to get out and vote. Especially Christians, I feel it is our duty to vote. We, as Christians, should be concerned with what is happening in our towns, states and country. It will eventually affect us. And the way things are going Federally now, it will affect us as Christians sooner than later.

So, get out and vote. I am not going to tell you whom to vote for, but vote. It is that important!

Happy Mom's Day

2010-05-09T10:37:00.003-04:00

Happy Mom's Day, Mom. I hope that you had a good time yesterday going out to eat with all of us and that you liked your presents.

Here is a song for you from one of your favorite singers. Enjoy your day!

Johnny Mathis: Chances Are
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEH3uqbpsm8

I love you, Mom!

The Declaration of Independence

2010-05-08T10:53:00.006-04:00

This is one of the times I think we needed to be reminded how we became America and what our Founding Fathers risked in doing so (starting this country). So, bare with me as I write this out.

THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE
IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

When in the Course of human Events, it becomes necessary for one People to dissolve the Political Bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the Powers of the Earth, the separate and equal Station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent Respect to the Opinions of Mankind requires that they should declare the cause which impel them to the Separation.

WE hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness-That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles, and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient Causes; and accordingly all Experience hath shewn, that Mankind are more disposed to suffer, while Evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the Forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long Train of Abuses and Usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object, evinces a Design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their Right, it is their Duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future Security. Such has been the patient Sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the Necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The History of the present King of Great-Britain in History of repeated Injuries and Usurpations, all having in direct Object the Establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid World.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public Good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing Importance, unless suspended in their Operation till his Assent should obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the Accommodation of large Districts of People, unless those People would relinquish the Right of Representation in the Legislature, a Right inestimable to them, and formidable to Tyrants only.

He has called together Legislative Bodies at Places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant for the Depository of their public Records, for the sole Purpose of fatiguing them into Compliance with his Measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly Firmness his Invasions on the Rights of the People.

He has refused for a long Time, after such Dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the Dangers of Invasion from without, and Convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the Population of these States; for that Purpose obstructing the Laws of Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their Migrations hither, and raising Conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice, by refusing his assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone, for the Tenure of their Offices, and the Amount and Payment of their Salaries.

He has erected a Multitude of new Offices, and sent hither Swarms of Officers to harrass our People, and out their Substance.

He has kept among us, in Times of Peace, Standing Armies, without consent of our Legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a Jurisdiction foreign to our Constitution, and unacknowledged by our Laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:
For quartering large Bodies of Armed Troops among us:
For protecting them, by a mock Trial, from Punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:
For cutting off our Trade with all Parts of the World:
For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:
For depriving us, in many Cases, of the Benefits of Trial by Jury:
For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for Pretended Offences:
For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an arbitrary Government and enlarging its Boundaries, so as to render it at once an Example and fit Instrument for introducing the same absolute Rule into these Colonies:

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws, and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with Power to legislated for us in all Cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our Seas, ravaged our Coasts, burnt our Towns, and destroyed the Lives of our People.

He is, at this Time, transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the Works of Death, Desolation and Tyranny already begun with cirumstances of Cruelty and Perfidy, scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous Ages, and totally unworthy of the Head of a civilized Nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the Executioners of their friends and Brethren, or tall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic Insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the Inhabitants of our Frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages, whose known Rule of Warfare, is an undistinguished Destruction of all Ages, Sexes and Conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions we have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble Terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated Injury. A Prince, whose Character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the Ruler of a free People.

Nor have we been wanting in Attentions to our British Brethren. We have warned them from Time to Time of Attempts by their Legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the Circumstances of our Emigration and Settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and Magnanimity, we have conjured them by the Ties of our common Kindred to disavow these Usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our Connections and Correspondence. They too have been deaf to the Voice of Justice and of Consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the Necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of Mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace, Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the World for the Rectitude of our Intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly Publish and Declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right out to be, FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES, that they are absolved from Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political Connection between them and the State of Great-Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as FREE AND INDEPENDENT STATES, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which INDEPENDENT STATES may of right to do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm Reliance on the Protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

*******************************************************************************

This July 4th, this document will be 234 years old. There are parts of it that are not applicable today (the Great Britain stuff), but a lot of it does apply to today. We are in trouble in this Country and we need to do something about it, or we are going to lose the Country that our Founding Fathers risked their lives to start.

Believe

2010-05-07T20:59:00.004-04:00

For a friend who does not believe in God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, or hell.

"Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord', will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter.
"Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?"
"And then I will declare to them, 'I never knew you: DEPART FROM ME, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS'

-Matthew 7:21-23

**********************************************************************************

Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat upon it, from whose presence earth and heaven fled away, and no place was found for them.
And I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged from the things which were written in the books, according to their deeds.
And the sea gave up the dead which we in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead which were in them; and they were judged, every one of them according to their deeds.
Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire.
And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.

-Revelation 20:11-15

******************************************************************************

Chris Tomlin: Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbe7OruLk8I

******************************************************************************

Will continue to pray for you and pray that one day you will come to truly know God and Jesus, that you will repent, ask for forgiveness, and ask Jesus into your heart, so that you will be saved and then you will go to heaven!

Anybody Out There?

2010-05-07T09:13:00.002-04:00

Does anybody read my blog anymore?? I haven't had any comments in forever. I know some people read it but don't comment on the blog cause they tell me, but what about the rest of you??

Pink Floyd: Is There Anybody Out There?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kpy7seH5Hc8

PT

2010-05-06T23:53:00.002-04:00

Today was my first day of PT. Will do the rest here at home. It was rough and will be rough. Need to get a special brace for my knee, so I will be off hunting that down tomorrow.

My friend's cat is missing and I feel so bad for him. I have been praying that the cat will turn up, but who knows. He's only been missing since this morning. Maybe he will be back tomorrow morning when its time to eat.

Guess thats all I have to say tonight. Not much really. Gotta find a song.

Daniel Powter: Bad Day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH476CxJxfg

Mine ended bad, so I thought this song was appropriate. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. Miss you friend.

Endowed by our Creator

2010-05-06T10:54:00.003-04:00

Endowed by our Creator
By Mark Alexander · Thursday, May 6, 2010

"To the distinguished Character of Patriot, it should be our highest Glory to add the more distinguished Character of Christian. The signal Instances of providential Goodness which we have experienced and which have now almost crowned our labours with complete Success, demand from us in a peculiar manner the warmest returns of Gratitude and Piety to the Supreme Author of all Good." --George Washington
Today is National Prayer Day.

In 1775, on the eve of Revolution, the First Continental Congress called for "a day of publick humiliation, fasting, and prayer."

Apparently, our Founders saw a national day of prayer as a fitting observance, not unlike the establishment of Thanksgiving, of which George Washington wrote in 1777, "Being the day set apart by the Honorable Congress for public Thanksgiving and Praise; and duty calling us devoutly to express our grateful acknowledgements to God for the manifold blessings he has granted us, the General ... earnestly exhorts, all officers and soldiers, whose absence is not indispensably necessary, to attend with reverence the solemnities of the day."

Other Founders continued the tradition.

John Adams declared May 9, 1798, as "a day of solemn humiliation, fasting, and prayer ... that our country may be protected from all the dangers which threaten it."

James Madison followed this tradition, but wrote, "I was always careful to make the Proclamations absolutely indiscriminate, and merely recommendatory; or rather mere designations of a day, on which all who thought proper might unite in consecrating it to religious purposes, according to their own faith & forms. In this sense, I presume you reserve to the Govt. a right to appoint particular days for religious worship throughout the State, without any penal sanction enforcing the worship."

Our Founders were greatly and rightly suspect of any encroachment by government upon religious freedom, and codified that proscription in Amendment I of our Bill of Rights: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..."

In other words, Congress may not mandate that a particular religion be nationalized, and others be prohibited.

Our Founders were not radical secularists. Far from it. One need only examine their many writings on the subject as evidence. But, rightly, they didn't want the United States to be wedded with a particular church, as was the case with England and the Anglican Church.

Thomas Jefferson, a vigilant though skeptical Anglican, made clear this prohibition in his obscure but maliciously misconstrued 1802 letter to the Danbury Baptist Association. Far from calling for the coercive stripping of all religious influences from public life, Jefferson merely assured his Baptist constituents in Connecticut that their denominational practices were safe because our Constitution provided a "wall of separation" between church and state, which would prohibit the national government from recognizing Anglicanism as the national religion. (Notably, two days after writing that letter, Jefferson attended religious services in the House of Representatives.)

But as Madison wrote, our Constitution, the one he penned, does not bar the government from designating "particular days for religious worship throughout the State."

However, in the latter half of the 20th century, judicial activists (the "despotic branch") as Jefferson called them) have "interpreted" the First Amendment to suit their political agendas, placing evermore severe constraints upon the free exercise of religion while wholly misrepresenting the aforementioned "Wall of Separation" in a concerted effort to expel religious practice from any and all public forums.

They have done so by falsely putting forth a "living constitution," a revisionist document which has little resemblance to the authentic Constitution that once was our Republic's standard for Rule of Law.

As noted by former Chief Justice William Rehnquist, "The wall of separation between church and state is a metaphor based upon bad history, a metaphor which has proved useless as a guide to judging. It should be frankly and explicitly abandoned. ... The greatest injury of the 'wall' notion is its mischievous diversion of judges from the actual intention of the drafters of the Bill of Rights."

The intended consequence of this artificial barrier between church and state is to remove the unmistakable influence of our Creator from all public forums, particularly government education institutions, and thus, over time, to disabuse belief in a sovereign God and the notion of natural rights. This erosion of knowledge about the origin of our rights, the very foundation of our country and basis of our Constitution, has dire implications for the future of our Essential Liberty.

In 1952, Congress established the National Day of Prayer as an annual event by a joint resolution, signed into law by President Harry Truman. The NDP designation (36 U.S.C. § 119) calls for the nation "to turn to God in prayer and meditation."

Naturally, the Despotic Branch is challenging that resolution, asserting that religion and politics don't mix.

On April 15, 2010, U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb (a 1979 Jimmy Carter nominee) ruled that the statute establishing the National Day of Prayer was unconstitutional, as it is "an inherently religious exercise that serves no secular function."

That ruling, of course, has no basis in our Constitution, but merely among those who have contorted its true meaning into a grotesque remnant of its original brilliance.

Perhaps Ms. Crabb, and all other jurists who are attempting to amend our Constitution by judicial diktat in full disregard for the constitutional prescription for amendment in Article 5, should pause and consider the faith of our Founders.

Perhaps they should look into the depth of faith that motivated the actions of Patriot Founders John Hancock, Roger Sherman, John Dickinson, Hugh Williamson, Benjamin Rush, Samuel Huntington, John Adams, William Williams, Robert Treat Paine, Rufus King, William Livingston, James Wilson, George Mason and Patrick Henry.

Here are but a few examples of how our Founders expressed their faith when in positions of authority.

Hancock called on his home state of Massachusetts to pray, "that universal happiness may be established in the world [and] that all may bow to the scepter of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the whole earth be filled with His glory."

According to John Adams: "The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were the general principles of Christianity. I will avow that I then believed, and now believe, that those general principles of Christianity are as eternal and immutable as the existence and attributes of God. ... The Christian religion is, above all the religions that ever prevailed or existed in ancient or modern times, the religion of wisdom, virtue, equity and humanity. ... Suppose a nation in some distant region should take the Bible for their only law book and every member should regulate his conduct by the precepts there exhibited. ... What a Eutopia -- what a Paradise would this region be!"

Henry wrote, "The Bible ... is a book worth more than all the other books that were ever printed. ... The great pillars of all government and of social life [are] virtue, morality, and religion. This is the armor, my friend, and this alone, that renders us invincible."

Samuel Adams called on Massachusetts to pray that, "we may with one heart and voice humbly implore His gracious and free pardon through Jesus Christ, supplicating His Divine aid ... [and] above all to cause the religion of Jesus Christ, in its true spirit, to spread far and wide till the whole earth shall be filled with His glory."

Even those who were cautious about the public expressions of religion left evidence of their views on Christianity.

Jefferson wrote, "I am a Christian in the only sense in which He wished anyone to be: sincerely attached to His doctrines in preference to all others. ... I am a real Christian -- that is to say, a disciple of the doctrines of Jesus Christ."

Benjamin Franklin wrote, "As to Jesus of Nazareth ... I think the system of morals and His religion as He left them to us, the best the world ever saw or is likely to see."

Beyond these many writings -- as if further proof were needed -- our Founders unequivocally enumerated the natural rights of all men in our Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

"Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness..." These are natural rights -- gifts from God, not government.

Notably, the conviction that our rights are innately bestowed by "the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God," is enumerated in the constitution preamble of every state in our Union.

Thomas Jefferson proclaimed, "The God who gave us life, gave us liberty at the same time. ... Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are the gift of God? That they are not to be violated but with his wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep for ever."

Prayer is Almighty God's prerequisite for true hope and change, and our nation needs an abundance of both right now. The Patriot Post's National Advisory Board and staff invite you to join us, and millions of our countrymen, in prayer for our nation today at 1200 local time.

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)].

Stardust

2010-05-05T21:28:00.001-04:00

I grew up with this song in a music box I used to have; it was a favorite then and it still is now.
Enjoy.

Michael Buble and Naturally 7: Stardust
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIviZRTOMbM

Old Blue Eyes

2010-05-05T00:13:00.001-04:00

This is for a dear friend of mine, but is also one of my all time favorite songs for myself! Hope ya'll enjoy it!

Frank Sinatra: Fly Me to the Moon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yo_o0G0fyg

The Beach

2010-05-04T12:03:00.000-04:00

Kenny Chesney: Old Blue Chair
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwGfTsh4EYI

One of My Favorite Songs

2010-05-03T22:18:00.002-04:00

The Beatles: Something
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8u_Jqfw93-4

Knee and Sunshine

2010-05-03T19:52:00.003-04:00

I saw the ortho doc today. No surgery needed, thank goodness. I have a badly sprained MCL on the left knee. So, therapy, icing, anti-inflammatory meds, wrapping in ace bandage. It will take 3-4 months for it to fully heal, but that's still better than having to have surgery!

The sun was out today and boy it was beautiful! We had such a stormy, rainy, yucky weekend, the sun was wonderful to see. And it was so warm too. If I didn't have my knee wrapped up so that if would give me a funny tan, I would have been sitting out in the sun, working on my tan!

My brother made it to his destination okay. I am glad. He is supposed to be back on Thursday, which all of us will be happy about. Please keep him and his family in your prayers.

Guess that's it for now. Just a short note today. Hope everyone is doing well. Let me go find a song.

Good Day Sunshine: The Beatles
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHTPdbpogRE

Sleep

2010-05-02T00:00:00.003-04:00

It's 12 midnight and I am yet asleep. Usually I am asleep between 10-11pm. I don't know what my problem is tonight. I feel myself getting more tired, just not enough to go to sleep. I took some pain medicine earlier for a knee injury cause the knee was hurting pretty badly and then my other bedtime meds and yet here I sit, still awake.

Maybe it's because I am concerned about the weather headed this way tonight and especially tomorrow. I feel bad for the folks south of us (TN, ARK, etc) who have had major flooding and numerous tornadoes. God Bless them and may they get the help that they need.

I am seeing an ortho doc first thing Monday morning about the knee. It has been a pain (literally) in butt. I hope that we can start to find some answers on Monday. I have been dealing with this for 5 weeks and am tired of it.

The nephews are here tonight. They are growing so fast and yet are so darling and cute. I just love being around them and they always brighten my day, no matter how bad I am feeling or whatever. They are great boys and going to be tall!!

Been going to Victory Life Church here in town. I absolutely love it. I enjoy the praise and worship time and the pastor. I am always learning something new each service I attend, which is good. I am in my Bible more and praying more, which is good too. I feel myself growing spiritually even though I have been there just a short time. God Bless ya'll there at Victory Life.

Please pray for my brother. He has to leave very early in the morning to go on a trip for work (at least they get to fly this time) and will be gone all week till Thursday afternoon. Pray for his safety in travel and the work that they need to do, pray that it will all go smoothly. Pray for his family as he is gone. Keep them safe and secure and no major things happen. Just ask that God let them know that He is with each one of them watching over them safely and securely. Thanks.

I guess I had better go for now. Battery is running down and I've unplugged everything because of the storms coming. Catch ya'll later.

Good Night ( I hope) everyone. It's pouring the rain here again! Fun. Enjoy the music anyway.

Obama and His Socialists

2010-04-22T09:41:00.003-04:00

OK, have we had enough yet America? When are we going to stand up and say, enough! Stop destroying our country and return it to the people!

First, it was the car companies. The government just had to take over them or they were never going to make it. Well, in a capitalist society, businesses fail sometimes. I will say this, I need to get a newer vehicle myself and I won't buy anything but a Ford. They didn't take any bailout money and are doing just fine. Support them all you can.

Secondly, it health care. Oh, we've got to take over health care because not enough people have insurance and its just going to cost us a fortune if we don't do something about it. Well, they've done something about it and guess what? It's going to us more than a fortune to "run" it. It's 1/6Th of our economy and the best way to destroy an economy, a country is from within. Hmm.

Now, they are going after Wall Street. They want to punish them for being successful and making too much money. Boohoo. Funny thing is, they, the Democrat Socialists, have been in bed with these people for a very long time. So, if Obama gets his way on this Wall Street business, there will be 3 major things that are no longer free enterprises; they will be owned by the government (of course Obama will say by the people, but don't believe that lie!)

So, Americans, when are you really going to stand up and fight and say ENOUGH! Now, I am not advocating violence here at all, but we can demonstrate much more, write letters, make phone calls, voting; there is so much we can do to get our country back.

And we Must! If we do not act now, we will wake up and it will be gone and then it will be harder to get back than most people think. Get up from in front of the TV, off the couch, and get moving! Take care of your country, or you will lose it!

I do want to say a word about the 20 states and growing, whose AG's have decided to sue the Obama administration over the health care bill/issue. I applaud them whole-heartedly! They are suing, challenging it's Constitutionality and I do believe it is Un-Constitutional. For a President who supposedly studied Constitutional Law, he sure doesn't know a lot about it, does he?

Happy Birthday, Mom!

2010-04-21T11:13:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday to my Mom! I hope you have a super birthday!

Love you!!

The Beatles: They Say Its Your Birthday.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VpTx_upBf0

For Stevie

2010-04-12T10:34:00.004-04:00

Stevie was a very special person who passed away on March 1st. Now he is in heaven, whole and happy, celebrating with Jesus.

For Stevie:

Louis Armstrong: What A Wonderful World
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnRqYMTpXHc

Stevie, you are loved and missed, but I am happy you are in such a better place and suffering no more.

Music

2010-04-09T10:25:00.002-04:00

Just some music today. Enjoy!

Sugarland: Love
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Kqjqx9AZYY

Kenny Chesney and Dave Matthews: I'm Alive
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WLgLfD3wElQ

Kenny Chesney: Summertime
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihKFvAFcXyE

Sugarland: Everyday America
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntQPddLf97g

Longing For...

2010-03-30T10:51:00.001-04:00

The beach, the ocean, sunshine, the sand beneath my feet.....

Kenny Chesney: Old Blue Chair
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3-_omoYPsI

Pat Robertson: Idiot

2010-01-16T12:42:00.003-05:00

I just have to say a few words about what Pat Robertson said the other day on his show about Haiti. The just of what he said is that because of a supposed deal with the devil in the 18th century, that this terrible earthquake was God's wrath for that. He also intimated something similar about the United States when 9/11 happened.

I have to say, what an idiot!!! It burns me up that he said this and that, sadly, there are people out there in the world that truly believe what he said. In other words, if you are living wrong, then things will go badly in your life; consequently, if you are living right, then things will go well.

If God truly worked like this, then where would any of us be? What if things are not going well in a Christian's life? And who made Robertson the judge on such things? I thought God was the judge.

Once again, Pat Robertson has said something so insanely stupid, that it makes all of us cringe. I, quite frankly, am ashamed that he has the media position that he has with his show. I am ashamed that he says he's part of the Christian community. He is making true believers look bad in the eyes of nonbelievers.

I hope that he loses his show soon, by some manner. Hmmm. Based on Robertson's thinking, maybe I should pray the he would lose his voice permanently and never be able to speak again.

In the meantime, Christians need to stand up and say, 'no, we do not believe this way.' Can God use a tragedy such as the Haiti earthquake to draw people closer to Him? Yes, He can. Do I believe that He caused the earthquake to punish the Haitians for their supposed past sins? No, I do not. We should all be cautious of such thinking. It is dangerous.

If By 'Transparent' You Mean 'Secret'...

2010-01-10T11:17:00.003-05:00

If By 'Transparent' You Mean 'Secret'...

After much bribery and arm-twisting, the Senate managed just before Christmas to pass its version of ObamaCare by a 60-39 vote (amazingly, without a single GOP "aye"). Now, the bill heads for conference deliberation televised by C-SPAN, just as the cable channel offered and Barack Obama promised numerous times.

Or not.

Democrats let slip this week that there would be no typical conference committee on the competing House and Senate versions of the health bill, as "leaders" opted instead for private negotiations with "key" congressmen and senators, none of whom is Republican. Once an agreement is reached, each legislative chamber will vote again and send the unified bill to the president.

Without conference committee, a rule requiring public access to the conference report for at least 48 hours before a vote would conveniently not apply. That means even more liberty-stealing treachery can be slipped into the bill with little notice. Funny how the "public option" doesn't mean that the public gets to know what's in the bill.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) nevertheless had the gall to declare, "There has never been a more open process for any legislation in anyone who's served here's experience." In response, Wall Street Journal columnist James Taranto mocked, "Has a most false or awkwardly worded statement ever come out of anyone who has served as speak of the House's mouth?"

In spite of Democrats' best efforts at "transparency," there are many extra-special things that we actually do know about the bill. For example, on page 1,020, the Senate bill states: "It shall not be in order in the Senate or the House of Representatives to consider any bill, resolution, amendment or conference report that would repeal or otherwise change this subsection." In other words, the bill creates an eternal law by prohibiting future elected Congresses from making changes to this subsection.

What's in the subsection in question? The infamous "death panel" -- the Independent Medicare Advisory Board (IMAB), who objective will be to "reduce the per capita rate of growth in Medicare spending" (read: to ration health care).

Meanwhile, the bill contains what amounts to a marriage penalty worth $2,000 or more in insurance premiums each year. The Wall Street Journal explains, "The disparity comes about in part because subsidies for purchasing health insurance under the plan from congressional Democrats are pegged to federal poverty guidelines. That has the effect of limiting the subsidies for married couples with a combined income, compared to if the individuals are single."

Finally, Obama signaled this week he's willing to break another campaign promise: The "no tax increases on the middle class" pledge. He threw his support behind the Senate's tax on higher end "Cadillac" insurance plans, something unions and House Democrats oppose.

The more the public learns about this continuing saga, the more vigorously opposed they become to "reform". No wonder Democrats want the process to remain secret.

[The Patriot Post (PatriotPost.US)]

Middle of the Night/Very Early in the Morning

2009-11-30T04:24:00.004-05:00

Here it is, almost 430am and I am awake. I have been waking up in the middle of the night because of coughing fits. They wake me out of a dead sleep. Ugh.

Hope everyone had a good turkey day. I just hung out here with my parents, eating and watching football. I made our dinner: baked ham, mashed potatoes, peas, baked yams, rolls, and dad's pumpkin pie. It was fairly good, I thought. My brother and his family came over on Saturday and we had our 'Thanksgiving' then, as well as, celebrated my oldest nephews birthday. That was a good time.

Have gotten most of my Christmas shopping done. Have shopped just about exclusively online. It's so much easier that way. No driving into Lexington and battling the crowds. I have gotten some nice things and some really good deals. There will be a few things I will have to hit a store or stores for (like stocking stuffers), but it shouldn't be too bad.

Have been feeling quite down, depressed lately. However, a friend of mine reminded me of the verse that says (paraphrasing), turn,turn,turn; everything has a season etc. He reminded me in an email, then I read it on his blog. Then I was given a book called 'New Life After Divorce' and the first few lines of it basically said the same thing. There is a season for everything, and things will get better. So, to all who contributed to giving me that message, thank you so much! It was much needed.

I guess winter will set in here this week. I have all my coats, gloves, etc., ready. I need a new scarf and hat (although I have 2 already). I also got my snow boots ordered from Lands End. Hopefully we will get enough snow to make them useful. I am of the opinion that if its going to be cold, it might as well snow! Snow is so much better than rain anyhow!

Well, I guess I had better close this out. I don't feel like I have said anything of importance, but sometimes it just feels good to blab. Hope everyone is getting a good nights sleep!

Obama's Speech on "Health Care Reform"

2009-09-09T11:14:00.004-04:00

Tonight, Obama will address the United States Congress as well as the American people, on what seems to be a last ditch effort to save his precious 'health care reform'. He has lost all control of this, which does not bother me.

He seems to be waffling on the 'public option' part of the bill and yet Nancy Pelosi says no bill will be presented on the floor of the House of Representatives that does not have that 'option' in it! Representatives and Senators from his own party are jumping ship quickly! I do not know how many of them actually held town halls and listened to people, but I do know that some are in terrible trouble for re-election next year!

Again, we are rolling fast down the hill of socialism. We already have it in some areas of our lives, but we need to pay attention to everything, not just health care. The things that Obama and his administration want to do to this country, would make us a socialistic country, not a republic that is ruled by democracy. They are cramming things through so fast, it makes my head spin, but we must pay attention to it all!!

Do not listen to the smooth talker tonight and buy into his words. He is just giving a good speech, which about all he is good at, he does not know what he is saying. Do not be lured into his smooth words, it will be the death of America.

Here is a link to the House of Representatives bill that's been floating around out there. I would have put the actual text on here, but it would have taken way too long. Look through it, read it, use the brain the God gave you and learn!
www.energycommerce.house.gov/Press_111/20090714/aahca.pdf

Yesterday when I wrote this, I included a song done by the Glenn Beck Show. For some reason, when I clicked on the link today, it said the song wasn't there on YouTube anymore. So, I found another one. It's the same song, new words 'hailing' Obama set to the tune of "Gimn Sovetskogo Soyuza" the national anthem of the former Soviet Union. Hopefully this link will work better.

Again, have a smile or two with it, but also give it some pause and thought. It is a serious matter.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvxiG56M-eU

Take Our Country Back!!! Throw These Socialists/Communists/Marxists Out on Their Bum!!!

OCEAN RAIN!!!

2009-08-17T22:54:00.002-04:00

Thought I would share this before I head off to bed. As some of you may or may not know, Tropical Storm Claudette came ashore very early this morning at the Florida/Alabama border, basically. Well, here is it, almost 11pm here in Kentucky, of the same day!

And lo and behold, we have the first bits of the remnants of the same storm pounding on our doorsteps with heavy rains, high winds, and fierce lightning!! We went out on the porch to survey the storm and you could still smell the sea salt in the rain! Gosh, it smelled so good!!! I have missed living on/near the ocean waters and beaches, yes, even with the hurricanes.

That made my day. Being able to go out and smell that ocean smell in the rain was just wonderful! I have missed it soooooo much!

Hope any of you that have been to or lived by a beach can picture (and sense the smell in your nose) just what I am talking about!

Goodnight!

July 26, 2009 Post: "Question"

2009-07-31T16:05:00.005-04:00

Why haven't more of you spoken out in answer to my question? If you don't know an answer, say so. Are you afraid to speak out? You shouldn't be at all. I'm not looking at names on the answers, I am looking for honest, serious answers. Here is the question again:

WHY, IN A SITUATION OF SIN IN THE CHURCH, DO CHURCHES FAIL TO ACT AS GOD AND THE BIBLE DIRECTS US TO?

I am looking for some honest, serious answers here. Let me hear from ya.

Question

2009-07-26T12:09:00.001-04:00

Why in a situation of sin in the church, do churches fail to act as God and the Bible directs us to?

Saturday Night

2009-07-11T22:25:00.003-04:00

Here it is, another Saturday night. This one is the second one here in July. Gosh this summer is sure flying by fast!!

Let's see, a brief summary of politics this week. Obama continues to sell our country down the river, agreeing to cut back ships, planes, subs, oh my!! What an idiot! What's he think we are going to fight with when the time comes, and the time is coming!

The Democrats in Congress want to appoint yet another Czar, this on for health care! Huh?? Has anyone actually looked up the definition of the word Czar? Here is it:

Czar - (1)an emperor: title of any of the former emperors of Russia and, at various times, the sovereigns of other Slavic nations(2) any person having great or unlimited power; autocrat*

and since some of you will wonder:

Autocrat - (1) a ruler with absolute power; dictatorship; despotism (2) anyone having unlimited power over others (3) any domineering, self-willed person.*

Do you guys actually want this kind of power over you and yours? We already have it in a number of 'czars' (not sure of the count, but it's getting up there in numbers) in a variety of things. We have already allowed ourselves to be put under this kind of domination in other areas of our lives. When will it stop? When will we, as Americans, have the guts to stand up and say "ENOUGH"!!!

Wake-Up America!

Okay, enough with the politics for tonight. Let's move on to other things..hmm...where to begin.

I turned 40 years old on June 27th!! Had a party with very good turn out and much, much fun!! I don't really feel any older, body wise, which is good. My cake was absolutely fabulous. It was horses racing (40 being chased by 30) with the fence and everything! It said something to the effect of 'Meg's 40.....And She's Off'! Off to the races! Off to a new life. Off to a new beginning. It was a great day all the way around!

The bummer thing is that I have been battling a terrible asthmatic cough for almost a month now. There was a couple of weeks where I coughed, hard, every evening for about 4hrs or more. That has settled down some, although last Sunday night, I was up all night coughing and pulled some muscles on my left side (shoulder, neck, chest). Ribs are mighty sore too. See doc again this week, hopefully we can figure something further out about this. My cough has reared its ugly head again tonight.

Finally got my application into the college here in town! Whew! I am not planning to start there till spring of next year (Jan 2010). They are on semesters, so this won't be at such a break-neck speed, thank goodness! I am looking forward to getting back to it and getting it (the degree) done!

Nephews are growing like weeds! Both are going to be tall, but I think the younger one will be taller than the older one! It is interesting to watch them learn and grow! Think we may hit the circus next month, which would be awesome!

Well, I guess I had better go for now. Tried to just briefly update about this and that. As usual, heavier on the politics than anything else, but it's needed right now.

Ya'll stay aware and get active about your country!!! Be safe, as always. Now to try to find a song....hmm.

Ok, in honor of where I currently live, here is:

Miranda Lambert with "Dry Town"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9VBvsTrotg4

hahaha....

Ya'll have a good one!

*definitions of Czar and Autocrat taken from Webster's New World College Dictionary. Thank you, Mr Webster!

Words for Thought

2009-06-26T10:23:00.003-04:00

"If, from the more wretched parts of the old world, we look at those which are in an advanced stage of improvement, we still find the greedy hand of government thrusting itself into every corner and crevice of industry, and grasping the spoil of the multitude. Invention is continually exercised, to furnish new pretenses for revenues and taxation. It watches prosperity as its prey and permits none to escape with tribute."

-Thomas Paine
1791 from "Rights of Man"

Mr. Paine was a smart man, wasn't he? What he wrote 218 years ago still applies today. I don't think much more needs to be said.

Call your US Representative and beg them to vote no on today's "Climate" or "Cap and Trade" Bill. It is vital! This government is already into "every corner and crevice" of our industry and our lives!! You can find your representatives on www.house.gov.

God Bless America!

CAP and TRADE

2009-06-25T14:12:00.004-04:00

I sincerely urge all members of the US House of Representatives to vote NO tomorrow on the 'Cap and Trade' Bill. This is also known as an energy/climate bill. I also urge all of you to contact your Representative and urge them to vote NO on this bill.

If this passes it will not only cost us millions of dollars, but cost thousands and thousands of jobs! This obviously would further aggravate our economic situation. We are already in serious trouble on the economic front and this bill will not help!

Using Obama's own words when he was a candidate last year for President, paraphrasing the first part: passing a cap and trade bill would cause our utility bills to "skyrocket"! HELLO??!! How fast can this man flip-flop?? My goodness!

So, get on your telephones or computers today and tonight, contact your Representative(s), and urge them to vote NO. Tell them to not take anymore of our country's future or our kids/grandkids future, by allowing this bill to pass!

VOTE NO ON CAP AND TRADE BILL!!!!

Had A Bad Day

2009-06-22T23:46:00.004-04:00

Had a bad day today. Won't go into the reasons why right now. Just suffice it to say that things have been stressful and I have had my fill! LET'S GET ON WITH IT!

Ok, here's some quick songs:

First:

Daniel Powter: "Bad Day"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RmNTAvnSais

Now, two songs for moving forward:

Queen: "I Want to Break Free"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QgQaa_B6ATI

Queen: "The Show Must Go On"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TXXbd4Tjoc

Later ya'll

D-DAY 1944

2009-06-06T11:32:00.008-04:00

Today is D-Day. It was on this day, 65 years ago, that Allied troops landed on the shores of Normandy, France to begin the liberation of Europe from Adolf Hitler and the Nazis. People in Europe and America will be remembering throughout the weekend, the sacrifices made by those who fought and lived, and those who fought and died.

This landing and subsequent battle, was one of the worst of any war, I think. There were boys who did not even make it off their landing crafts, boys who drowned, boys who were killed and floated in the water, in and out with the tides, or on the bloody beach. That did not stop them however, they had a unified mission to fulfill and didn't stop until it was fulfilled and the Nazis had been defeated.

I want to salute all the boys of the United States, France, England and Canada who fought that day and and those who fought forward from that day. There are huge cemeteries in Normandy, just full of rows and rows of white Crosses and Stars of Davids. Thousands of them. God Bless those boys and their families.

My Uncle Phil was not apart of the European War in WWII, but he was with the United States Marines in the Pacific. He fought on the islands with names like Saipan, Iwo Jima, Tarawa Atoll etc. I was able to hear some of his war stories several times over the years till he died. He fought bravely and missed his buddies that didn't come back with him after the War.

The Pacific War was very different from the European, but the main thing is this: That no matter where you fought during that War, it was for The Cause: Freedom, and each of you fought heroically and bravely.

We thank you for all you have done for our country and for the cause of freedom. I will never forget you.

God Bless America!

For All Of Our Boys In WWII and Their Families:

Glenn Miller: "Moonlight Serenade"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BHBvksGdhxA

Anne Shelton: "I'll Be Seeing You"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khwUz49EA4s

Glenn Miller: "In the Mood"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPXwkWVEIIw

Andrews Sisters: Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wiVkdVPGoY

WWII Tribute - Hymn to the Fallen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TmQpUuJ8qGw

Thank you once more, boys of WWII. This American will never forget you!

He Didn't Bow!

2009-06-03T08:35:00.004-04:00

Yes, I am still here. Sorry it has been so long since I have written, a lot has been going on with me. I will write about that another time.

Today, I wanted to focus on Obama's trip to Saudi Arabia. Now, this guy has been in office about 4 months and this is his second trip to that country. Interesting. Wonder why? Hmm? He has also said two very important things in the past 4 months. First he said, to a foreign press I might add, that America is no longer a Christian nation. What? Who made this decision? Then, before he left for this trip, he told a Paris newspaper that if they counted all the Muslim-Americans in this country, that America would be considered a Muslim country. Huh? Why does he only say these things to only foreign press and not to American press? Hmm. Just some things to think about.

Anyways, the thing I wanted to emphasize today is that Obama did not bow when greeting King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia. Hmm. I felt sure that he would, but he refrained. I am sure it took every fiber of Obama's being not to bow. I think that he (Obama) is slowly showing us that he is truly Muslim; sort of preparing us for it. I won't be at all surprised if it comes out. I guess I would be more surprised if it didn't come out.

Anyways, blah, blah, blah.

So, anybody built their bomb shelter yet since it seems that North Korea is going to start a nuclear war? Nobody seems to want to stop them, so I guess I had better start digging in the back yard.

Well, I guess I had better go for now. Need to get some things done today. I do want to say that I have nothing against true Muslims. I do have a problem with fanatic Muslims. I also have a problem with someone who seems to want to hide his true religion from this country...why?

Ya'll have a great day!

Let's Dance

2009-04-24T15:42:00.008-04:00

It has been quite a month, I will tell you. I moved down here to Kentucky on Friday, April 3rd, after furiously packing for 2 weeks. It was a long two weeks and the drive down here (the actual move) was just almost unbearably long!! But, we made it.

I am slowly getting settled here in Georgetown. Have seen several old friends and everyone is glad that I am back. It has been a little tough since I have been here. Trying to get settled into my room, dealing with the ex-boss not paying me (still!) and of course as always, the soon to be ex, who seems more and more unbalanced each time I have to communicate with him, which is less and less, thank goodness!

This past week, my Pops and I have been very sick with what turned out to be dueling sinus infections that had digressed into bronchitis!! So much fun!! We both ended up at the doc and came away with antibiotic and inhalers to deal with it all. Whew!!

So, things are progressing on the dissolution and I cannot wait for it to be over and done with!!! I am so ready to be finished and to really be able to get on with my life. He likes to yank my chain so much, I have decided just today, to not let him yank it anymore. I am not going to let his attitudes etc., affect how I feel (easier said than done!), but that's how I have decided to do it.

Pops and I went to Kenneland the Saturday before Easter. It was the day they ran the Toyota Bluegrass Stakes! What a day for the races!! It was just a beautiful day and we had so much fun, even though our horses didn't win. My arms and face got soooo sunburned, but it felt great!! I am so glad that we got to go and enjoy the day!!

I am planning a huge party for my 40th birthday in June. I have something very unique I want to do and so far have recruited my brother and a friend to go do it with me. I need to write one of my cousins and see if he wants to come do this thing with us!! Its a secret!! But, it will be fun!

So, even though I have had my ups and downs since before coming here and since I have been here, I wanted to say, that's all in the past, so LET'S DANCE!!!

Here's some music:

"Let's Dance" by David Bowie
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=30AVhf-ZLwM

"Rolling On the River" by Tina Turner (1966)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=brdqJ29PQac

"Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen (the greatest!)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rY0WxgSXdEE

"Crazy Little Thing Called Love" by Queen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO6D_BAuYCI

"Foot Loose" by Kenny Loggins (from the movie "Footloose")
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMB8vv18ehE

"Dancing Queen" by ABBA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REElUors1pQ

And in honor of my new (old) Kentucky home:

"She Thinks My Tractor's Sexy" by Kenny Chesney
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0Rb44MHzLc

Later Ya'll!!!!!!

A Big Change and a Goodbye

2009-04-05T22:24:00.004-04:00

Well, as some of you know, the last few weeks of my life have been very heartbreaking, stressful and almost unbearable. So, I made the decision to move back to the South, the home of my heart. I am in Kentucky currently with my family; going to finish my degree, get my feet on the ground etc., and then we'll see what's further down the road.

I had to leave my precious baby dog behind with my soon to be ex. I am glad he was willing to take her since it was not possible to bring her with me at this time. He and I finally have an initial agreement worked out for our disillusionment to finally come to an end, thank goodness. I am so tired of it all and ready for it to be over and done with.

Also as some of you know, I had to quit my job because things just got too out of control. I won't go into all of the details, but one of the big things was that I kept getting promised that I would be paid and never did. Suffice it to say, my former boss owes me quite a bit of money and I think it make take the legal route to get it out of her, which is a shame. She has not acknowledged my resignation letter, my request for my pay, the box of work things that I sent back to her at my cost...nothing. Its such a shame, really. I am pretty aggravated at her right now because of all of the hurt and pain that she caused me on top of the pay situation.

It was a little hard leaving Columbus the other day; a little tear in the eye, but it was the right move to make. I had had enough of having my chain yanked over and over by the soon to be ex; he has been not very nice about some things since I have been here even. Geez, I am so ready for this to be over and to just get on with my life. I have had enough of him and enough of a lot of things lately; just need to the dissolution done, my former boss to live up to her obligation and pay me what I am owed and get on with my life.

So, here I am. I am taking classes on the web with Columbus State this quarter and both professors have been cool about it all, the move etc., willing to work with me and me being in a different state and all. This fall I hope to be back at the college I started my college career at 22 years ago; I should be able to finish up my degree in a short period of time. My graduation gift to myself will be a trip to Tuscany, Italy. I love that movie "Under the Tuscon Sun" with Diane Lane and it fits me right now.

Here's a song for my soon to be ex:

"I've Always Been In Love With You" by Madonna
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYdvc5_79to

And now a song for the new life I am starting and what a blast it will be:

"We Will Rock You & We Are the Champions" by Queen
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNWvNEPsilI

Ya'll have a good night.

Comrade?

2009-03-27T11:18:00.004-04:00

Hope 'n' Change: The (Toxic) Elephant in the Room
The nation's Kommissar of Economic Cheerleading, a.k.a. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, unveiled his plan to save our ailing economy this week -- the so-called Public-Private Investment Program (PPIP). The announcement was punctuated by a much-ballyhooed 500-point surge in the Dow, an indication that the market, at least, likes PPIP. But why wouldn't it? Investors tend to appreciate "free" money.

At its core, PPIP provides investors with mega-leveraged government financing. Patterned roughly after the Resolution Trust Corporation (RTC) thrift bailout plan of the late '80s, PPIP is composed of two parts: The first part addresses "legacy" loans; the second, "legacy" securities. "Legacy," incidentally, is the new kinder-gentler buzzword for "toxic," as in "toxic assets," the former nom du jour for radioactive financial instruments like subprime mortgages and mortgage-derived securities.

PPIP offers private investors enormous amounts of cheap, taxpayer-backed financing for every dollar they put up of their own money. Under the program, government lends up to 85 percent of investor funding, with the Treasury "investing" one dollar of taxpayer money for each private capital dollar to cover the remaining 15 percent.

From an investor's standpoint, of course, there's no personal downside. Investors leverage government money at a 6-to-1 ratio and the lion's share of any losses generated are absorbed by taxpayers. Thus, if a borrower defaults on his mortgage, the government would only be able to seize the real estate -- private investors walk away relatively unhurt.

Independent of taxpayer liability, however, the program is not without risk. As indicated by Vincent Reinhart, American Enterprise Institute resident scholar and director of the Monetary Affairs Division of the Federal Reserve, PPIP assumes that "assets are troubled because their true values are obscured by irrational self-doubt and market illiquidity, and not by fundamental problems in the prospects of repayment. It also assumes that the solution to problems created by excessive leverage is for government to encourage more leverage."

Apart from PPIP, our strategic issue, the elephant in the room, is one of accountability. Helped by a willing media, the central focus has been shifting from Congress and the Executive branches to business. Still, for all the finger pointing at banks and insurers, and for all post-hoc economic crater repairing, we hope those as yet unenlightened Americans who have been blinded by the Obama media will soon learn the origins of this mess: government.

---from The Patriot Post

*********************************************************************************

If we let this continue, how long before we are calling each other "Comrade"? Pres. Obama is changing things fast and furiously; so fast it makes even my head spin. So how many Americans, how many of you out there are really paying attention to what your government is doing to this country and to you personally?

The "War on Terror" or "Global War on Terror" has already been changed to "Overseas Contingency Operation". HUH? Is that supposed to be the "kinder, gentler" name for something that is a serious, serious matter? Is it not supposed to terrify the terrorists that we are supposed to be after? I don't understand this at all. It is a WAR and it is against TERROR and TERRORIST. They have not only attacked here in American, but Spain, England, Africa etc., etc., etc.

And don't even get me started on the U.N. "Climate Change" issue. This will cost trillions of dollars, cost jobs, ruin country's economy's, make global taxes on everyone, including us? Excuse me?? The U.N should have absolutely no power over us, America. The fact that the Obama administration is willing to even "talk" about these things should scare the pants off of us.

Put all of this together, before you know it, we will no longer be America: Land of the Free, Home of the Brave. We will be some other country, a socialistic/communistic combination, and your freedoms to do anything, and I do mean anything, will be out the window. Take care, Comrade.

Rise up against this. Remember this is the kind of thing we originally left England for all those years ago and came to this brave new world? If we aren't careful, things will be worse than when we left England over 200 years ago. Those days will seem like a picnic compared to what is happening to this country now; and you, yes, you, are just letting it happen. Get off your duff and stand up for your country, American!

"God Bless America" by Kate Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r26_CSzk3Xw

GRRRRRR!

2009-03-26T23:24:00.004-04:00

this week has just been unbelievably and i do mean unbelievably distressing. i am sick and tired of this town and the people in it (with exception of a select few).

so, goodbye. i am going home to the South where i belong, where my heart has always been. this city is run by corrupt people and it seems to have spread out to the people in the community, unfortunately. i have been hurt over and over by the same people and i am so tired of it; i am not going to take it anymore.

answer me this: how can my soon to be ex be so sweet and supportive one day and mean as a snake the next??? who's been whispering in his ear? our divorce should have been over months ago and its still not done....i don't know when it will be done. beginning to wonder if it will ever be done. i will tell you one thing, he's not going to hurt me or rip my heart out anymore. i have had enough and am so done with him.

i hope that ya'll enjoy the terribly cold winters here for years and years to come. i will not be thinking about it. i especially won't miss the days of 70 degrees one day and 30 degrees the next, not at all.

will write more once i am settled in my new home state. goodbye Ohio, i will be back to parts of it, but plan to avoid Columbus when it at all possible.

hmm, what kind of song tonight? let me see what i can find. be right back.

"Na, Na, Na, Hey, Hey, Goodbye" by Crazy Frog
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlzPFm44Wac

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T17:57:00.002-04:00

Yes, yes, I know. I am mostly German, but I do have just a wee bit of Irish and Scottish in me. So, I am free to celebrate this day too! Where do you think the bits of my red hair come from?? :~)

I am wearing a Mardi Gras shirt today. It's the only thing I could find this morning that had green in it besides my eyes. So, I guess I am hitting two holidays in one today because I couldn't find my Mardi Gras shirt when it was time for that. Oh well.

I had a bit of an accident this morning. I don't know what I hit (no child or animals or other cars), but it bent the rim and immediately flattened my front passenger tire. I was okay, but it did scare me and give me the shakes a bit. Called the soon to be ex., and he came to my rescue. He took the bad tire (rim and all) to be replaced, but the spare on my car. Now he is on his way over to put the new tire and rim on (taking the spare off). I am cooking supper for him as my way to say 'thank you'.

Things have been just nuts lately. We have been working our tails off trying to get the business off the ground etc., and dealing with lots of other stuff too. I have had a few days where it was all I could do not to pack up and go home to Kentucky. I NEED A VACATION!!! Lots of stress, stress, stress. I feel it in my back every day. It's days like this that I miss the small town/county of Kentucky and Tennessee and South Carolina. If I had a job, place to live etc., I would be gone in a heartbeat. Sometimes this city is just too much.

Still planning on getting a newer vehicle, just not sure on the timing. I originally had planned to go do that around the 30th of this month, but things are getting pushed back a little. Want to make sure I have a steady paycheck etc., before I commit to a car payment. It will come though, I am sure of that, and I am soooo looking forward to getting a better vehicle. And one that I like!!!!

It's about 70 degrees here today and is just corgeous. Why can't it stay this way all the way to summer? It won't though. We will be back and forth, warm, then cooler, then warm, the cooler...I miss my southern winters. Nothing changes except what days you can go to the beach!

Right now I am sitting here waiting on soon to be ex, just jamming out to my favorite radio station; The Brew, 105.7 Columbus. Good stuff and good way to relax for me. Music always relaxes me, even if its rock n roll.

Got tickets to go with my sister to see Kenny Chesney, Sugarland, Miranda Lambert and Antebellum all together in May here in Columbus. I cannot wait for that! Should be an awesome time. I just hope its good and warm as it all starts at 530pm. I would like to go see Eric Clapton and Steve Winwood in June for my 40th birthday. Have to see if I can round up a group to go with me; that would be awesome too! I am ready for concerts, pools, the beach, constant sunshine, warmer temps and just an overall good time this spring and summer!

Well, I guess I had better go for now. Let's see if I can find a song or two to put at the end here. Hang on...Okay, here we go:

"Love Shack" by the B-52's
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3YqaIxDp_0

"Sweet Child Of Mine" by Guns N' Roses
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WymFtJ52p4k

And for St Pat's Day:

"Where The Streets Have No Name" by U2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpVbLm4TN3g

With a Little Help of My Friends

2009-03-09T22:42:00.007-04:00

Well, as I shared in my previous post, last week was just awful. But my friends were calling and checking on me, others were praying for me, even the soon to be ex helped with things (thank you again so much!). And of course, God has been with me every step of the way; at night in bed when I am in so much pain I think I am going to die: He has given me the strength to fight through it all and get up yet again!

So, I worked a few hours today. I have tried to clean the house in spurts. So far, got the laundry done and put away, dishes done, cleaned the bathroom, changed the bedding. Tomorrow I should sweep and mop. We'll see how the morning goes before I have to work, I have quite a lot I am juggling right now and need to get some other stuff done too.

Anyway, so I am laying here, just about to drift off to sleep and sleep well, I hope. VH1C is carrying the original Woodstock tonight, oh man. I have the Cd's from the original, but need to get the DVDs for it. It is truly an unique experience many have tried to "recreate" the original Woodstock and have failed. Cannot make better that which was perfect the first time around; the original experience cannot be repeated. Once in a life time.

I already know the song I am going to pick and I hope that God is a rock 'n' roller deep down inside too! It's just a great, classic song. Okay here's the song: enjoy it, its truly one of the great ones. Love ya'll and Peace

"With A Little Help of My Friends" by Joe Crocker
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wG6Cgmgn5U

Oral Surgery and the devil on my back....

2009-03-08T11:29:00.004-04:00

Hi all! I feel like its been forever since I have written on here. It's been rough going the past week or two; well, really longer than that.

I had oral surgery last Monday (March 2nd). The surgery went well, and I thought the recuperating would go easily as well. I had a runny nose a couple of days before the surgery, and the morning of the surgery, but thought it was because it was so darn cold (like 7 degrees in the morning!). Evidently it was not. I progressed through the day of and the day after the surgery and thought I was going to be okay. Then I started having trouble; terrible pain in my jaw, head congestion, then a cough. For the first bit of trouble, I thought it was from the surgery, but now I know it was a sinus situation that was just aggravated by the surgery. It's been a week!

I am feeling some better today, still a little sinus pain and body aches, but I am sure part of that is the huge cold front that is coming through later today. I still get out of breath pretty easily, and get worn out easily, but don't feel quite as bad. Hopefully another night of Mucinex D and good rest will help kick it out for good.

The soon to be ex has been a big help throughout this past week. He has brought me medicine, groceries, come and taken care of the dog, etc. I really appreciate all of his help very much. It was very nice of him to be of such a big help.

I just feel like ever since I fell back in January and hurt my knees, that the devil has just taken this opportunity to keep me down by constantly beating me up with physical ailments. Unfortunately, he knows that is my weakness and he also doesn't like the growth that I have had in and with the Lord. He wants to discourage me and keep me down and I am determined not to let him. I have asked friends and family to pray that the devil would just get off my back, that my strength would return so that I would be able to continue on the path and growth that the Lord wants/has me on. I would ask those of you who may read this, to do this as well. Thanks.

Unfortunately, I missed our Spring Women's retreat because of all of this. I was so looking forward to going and to hearing Tammy Smith, the speaker. I was just not able. It would have taken every ounce of strength to just shower and get ready to go, let alone to be able to go and sit there etc. I was so disappointed, but knew I would have just been miserable. Laurie B., our Women's Ministries leader at Church, said she has a "goodie" bag for me that is full of good stuff from the retreat. I am looking forward to receiving that from her whenever we work it out to meet up; and it was sure nice of her to remember me and save one back for me since I was not able to attend!

Not much else is going on (that's enough, don't ya think?). We started out last week soooo cold, and ended yesterday at 77 degrees for a high. It's about 63 today, but is kind of a cool 63, would be different if the sun were out. We've had some rain this morning and are expecting storms this afternoon/night, as the cold front comes through. They are saying we will be back to winter temps by the end of the week. What a thrill! I hate this time of year; wish that it would just get warm and stay warm, or stay cold until its ready to be warm for good!

My good friend's cousin is supposed to be coming out with his first CD soon (I almost said record, that will tell you how old I am!). He was runner-up on last years' American Idol. His name is Jason Castro and I like what I have heard so far of his music. He is a Christian and has great family support, but Kathy, my friend, asked that we all surround him with prayer as he steps out with his first CD and for the Lord's path for Jason's life. So, I am asking all of you to pray as well as this young man steps out into the music world, that he will keep to the Lord's path and leading with his career and life. Will keep you posted as to when the CD is out and what the title is, as I don't know either just yet. Thanks so much.

Well, I guess that's it for today. Please do keep me in your prayers, I would appreciate it very much. Okay, now let me find a song, be right back. Okay, here we go, enjoy and God Bless.

"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Jason Castro
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYd_doxZIYM

New Week

2009-02-22T18:32:00.004-05:00

Today is Sunday and I will say it again, whew! Last week was just a week like I don't know what. It seemed like it lasted forever long and yet flew by, all at the same time. I started out the week so very sick and ended it, thankful that it was over.

Well, I wrote just last Thursday, but that seems years ago. I did venture out for a bit Friday and did a little work, and had PT. Yesterday, I worked around the house and then couldn't sleep last night. Today, I ran a couple of errands on shaky legs and have done the laundry.

I did my exercises yesterday that my physical therapist wants me to do every day here at home when I don't have PT. Well, by last night, my leg and hip muscles were twitching and cramping something fierce. Even taking my muscle relaxer at bedtime didn't help. I did not get to sleep till about 5 am this morning because of it and the pain that it caused; then only slept for a few hours. They are still twitching a lot and just feel so heavy today. I did not do my exercises today; thought maybe it was a bit too much, might try again tomorrow.

I got rid of my wedding rings last week. Sold them to a jewelry store. So, that's that. Got rid of the engagement ring around Christmas, trading it in on a pair of diamond earrings (which I love to wear), I just sold the rings for cash. No twinges or tears this time.

The soon to be ex floored me last night by asking a loaded question at the end of a short email. I haven't answered him yet. Actually sent him an email asking him why, after all this time, does he want to know this or that about what went wrong, when he didn't care to before now...even though I begged him to at times. Geez. This one is going to take some thinking.

It snowed some today and is soooo cold. It's in the low 20s with wind chills in the teens. Ugh. I hate winter. March is at the end of this week and I wished it were June instead. I miss the sun and the warmth of it on my skin. Can't wait to hit the beach this summer. I hate winters in the north. Oh, and this new daylight savings time thing, I especially hate. We didn't drop back till November and we bounce forward 2 weeks from today. Ugh. Ugh. I hate it.

Thinking about taking my classes for Spring quarter online. It wouldn't require me to actually have to go sit in class, which would leave me more time to work. Just have to be disciplined about getting the work done etc. Not even sure yet what I am going to take. Need to figure it out soon though; Spring quarter starts March 30th.

Still planning on getting a different vehicle at the end of March before classes start back up. I just can't handle that stupid Buick anymore, physically and every week it seems like something new goes wrong with it. Already got the plans in the works for the newer vehicle. Can't wait to get it.

Well, I guess that's it for now. Not really a lot to say today, I guess, but felt like I wanted to write anyways. I will leave ya'll with one of my all-time favorite songs. I have loved it ever since I was a kid and hearing it always reminds me of being on a beach at the end of a summer's day. Till next time....

"In My Room" by the Beach Boys
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Usuu-xu75dI

Whew!!

2009-02-19T11:01:00.004-05:00

Well, for those of you who may have started to think that I fell off the face of the earth, I am still here. It has been a wild (and by wild, I mean not fun) past few weeks.

First of all, ya'll remember that I fell here at home about a month ago and buggered up my right knee pretty badly. Well, I was on crutches because of that, which was not fun at all. We had a big snow and ice storm about a week after that, and of course, being the klutz I am, I slipped on the ice and snow (on my crutches) and landed on my already injured right knee and then buggered up my left one as well.

The good news is that all x rays and MRI's show no tears or anything major like that in either knee, that would require surgery. My right knee is actually starting to feel more normal, although it still aches at the end of the day. My left knee is taking longer to heal; but of course, that is my bad knee anyways. I started PT on both knees last week and also have exercises to do here at home. They are saying my PT will be twice a week for 4 weeks, then we will go from there. So, my mom had come up to help me with things since it was really difficult and even painful for me to drive. She stayed two weeks, bless her heart, and helped with stuff around the house and ran me around for this and that.

I had a migraine out of nowhere towards the end of January. I could not figure out where it came from; or what was causing it. It also made my right ear hurt which was really weird. Well, the headache and earache just kept getting worse and worse, so I called my doc, who saw me last week. She diagnosed me with a sinus and ear infection (so much fun!). She put me on a strong antibiotic and told me to go home and rest. Well, it got worse before it got better. I spent the beginning of this week just miserable. For the first few days, I still had the headache and earache. The headache went away finally and then the earache, but then I had just the most awful body aches. I think everything, the injuries to my knees and the sinus and ear infections, just aggravated my fibromyalgia. I hurt all over, even in my toes! But, I am feeling much better today. I have 3 more days on the antibiotic, so hopefully that will be the end of it!

Anyways.......

I didn't make it to church this past Sunday because I was so sick, but I went the Sunday before, even though I didn't feel well already (had the headache and earache, but it wasn't constant yet). Our Pastor is speaking on First Peter right now and they have been great sermons. I have really enjoyed them and the spirit that has been in our services over the past month or so. It has been awesome.

I became a member of New Life, a week ago Sunday. We had to stand up front and tell our name and about where we lived in the greater Columbus area. Of course, I had to go first! I was nervous, but I at least got the crowd to laugh a little with what I said. It felt good to be fully welcomed into the fold, so to speak; not that I hadn't felt that before, but it was just a cool thing and I look forward to doing the work that God wants me to do in and with the church.

I did get to go to a Columbus Blue Jackets hockey game several weeks ago. We had a good time and even though I was in pain with my knees, I really enjoyed myself! And they actually won that night, which was really cool. I hadn't been to one of their games in quite a while. And there were a couple of good fights during the game, which makes it a really good hockey game. You know the old saying "In the middle of a fight, a hockey game broke out"; that's what I call good hockey.

They announced that Kenny Chesney is coming to Columbus in May at Crew Stadium (where our pro soccer team plays). I wrote my sister in law and asked if she was up for going; she of course said yes. I told her that if Kenny was coming for an outdoor concert in May, it meant that summer wasn't that far away!! Thank goodness. I am looking forward to going to that with her.

Our weather has been just weird. January was so bitterly cold and we had that big snow and ice storm that left us with about 10 inches of snow. Well, over the past 2 weeks it has warmed up some and all of that melted away, slowly. Yesterday at about 7pm, it was still 51 degrees! Then it all came to an end, of course. A front came through yesterday evening and overnight, dropping temps dramatically, with rain and high winds (currently it is about 18 degrees with a windchill of 9) and its snowing again! They said on the weather last night that at some point in the next week, we are supposed to get about 4 or so inches of snow and its supposed to stay really cold again! Winters' back! It's snowing now, just a little bit. The weatherman said last night that we couldn't really say that winter is over here in Columbus until about May 1st. We may have warm spots here and there, but then get cold etc., again. Fun, fun. I am ready for summer and the warmth of the sun.

Well, our Republican National Committee has elected a new chairman. They chose Michael Steele from Maryland, which I am not happy about at all. I was hoping that they would smarten up and put someone like Ken Blackwell into the spot, but they did not. I just don't think that Mr Steele will give the Republican party the true leadership that it desperately needs right now. The conservatives feel left out, that the party has abandoned us; but then I have heard my moderate friends say that they feel abandoned by the party also. So, Mr Steele and the committee in general certainly have their work cut out for them. I hope that they will listen to us, the members of the party, and what our concerns are and what we want to see done. I don't hold out much hope for that.

Our state party needs some real leadership also. They elected the same people in as party leadership, which has gotten us nowhere. We lost the 2006 gubernatorial election; we didn't carry McCain/Palin in last years' Presidential election; and we lost a couple of seats to the democrats in the US House/Senate. So, what does the state party do? They elect the same type of people that got us nowhere in those elections and expects them to be able to turn the party around, state wise. I have my doubts on that also. But, we will see on both situations, national and state, as time moves forward.

Well, I guess I have blabbed enough for now. Just wanted to pop up and say hi and write a bit about what's been going on. I am so ready for summer, I will have to try to find a summer song to end this with. Ya'll take care and God Bless.

"Summertime" by Kenny Chesney
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyOeqso7pDg

Yet Another Winter Storm Warning!!! (Where is Summer??)

2009-01-28T00:34:00.004-05:00

Oh my. It is about 1235am and I should be asleep but I got to messing around on my computer for work and thought I would write on my blog for a bit since I haven't for about 1 1/2 weeks.

Yes, we are under another winter storm warning and it is really coming down! We had mostly snow earlier, and now we are having some sleet, then back to more snow. They are calling for a total of about 8-11 inches here in my county, depending where you are in the county ( I don't know why that makes a difference). They just announced that The Ohio State University will be closed tomorrow because of the weather and they never close! And I mean never!

Well, it seems a lot has happened, good and bad since I wrote last. I hinted when I wrote last that my knee was killing me. Well, its my right knee, not my left knee (the bad knee). I fell here at the house on the 17th of this month. It swelled and bruised badly right away. I thought I had just bruised it badly, but by Sunday afternoon, it was hurting pretty badly. I had my Discover New Life class to attend that night, so I hit an urgent care over by the church. They did x rays and said nothing was broken, but the doc never really moved my leg around or tried to feel around the knee or anything. They just wrapped it up and gave me some pain killers and sent me on my way.

Well, that Monday (MLK day), I managed to make it to the store for a few things. But by that late afternoon, evening the knee was burning which I knew wasn't right. I called my doc after hours and she called me right back. She had her nurse set me up to see the Sports Medicine Doc the very next day, which was great. I good and dear friend came and took me, because by this time, it hurt very badly to drive with that leg. Well, the Sports Med Doc looked it over good and suspects I have torn my MCL, and no telling what other damage. I am having an MRI this Monday (2/2) to see how bad the tear is and what other damage I might have done. That will tell us whether or not I will have to have surgery. Fun. I have been through this before with my left knee almost 3 years ago to the month.

I was supposed to have the MRI this past Saturday, however, I had had a migraine since last Thursday! Where did that come from? It turned out to be a 4 day migraine, when my dear friend called between services from church this past Sunday and said 'I think 4 day is enough don't you? And I, of course, said yes'. It has just been too much. So, she took me to the ER that afternoon. We were there till about 330-4am, but PTL, they finally found a medicine that got rid of the headache. They gave me 3 rounds of different kinds of medicine, until this last bit finally did the trick.

So, because I have been on crutches and unable to drive (although I did for a little bit today; its still very painful to do that), I dropped out for this quarter from school. I was very disappointed, but didn't know how I could do it, with or without surgery, it is still going to take a while to heal and I definitely could not see my trying to drive or get around campus on crutches. I am filling out paperwork that is requesting a tuition refund because I missed just about all of the cut off dates for dropping classes and getting money back. It may take them up to 6 weeks to decide whether I get more than 25% back, but a little more than that is better than nothing.

The good thing about all of this is that I am able to rest and really collect myself. I just felt so rushed into this quarter and felt like I could not 'get my feet under me', so to speak. This will also give me time to get into a good groove with work and help my boss get things up and running real well before Spring Quarter starts. So, I have tried to look at the good through the bad.

I know that the devil is just attacking me in a major way because of opportunities that I have had presented to me lately through Church etc., as well as other things, and he (the devil) is just trying to get me down and keep me down and I am not going to let him. I have had a lot of people praying for me, not only healing physically, but also spiritually, that the Lord will just kick that ole devil off my back. Those are the last words I speak before I go to sleep at night since all of this started happening: "Lord, thank you for getting me through another day. Thank you for my migraine finally going away with the help of the doctors at the hospital and that it has stayed gone away. And Lord, keep that devil off my back and away from me. In Your Name, I demand the he (the devil), will go away and stay gone."

Whew! It has been a very trying month in so many ways. Just so many ways. I have been hurt by several people this month in ways that I thought I would never be hurt; and that has been hard to deal with. But, I am just leaning more and more on the Lord and letting Him heal me from these hurts and help me to get over them and not to hold them against these people.

I have decided to join New Life as a Member. I am meeting with one of the associate Pastors this Friday morning to talk about some personal stuff, and he will also be doing my membership interview at that time as well. I have been presented with some opportunities that will require my membership there and I just felt that it was time. The Church as a whole has been so supportive and helpful during the past 7 or so months; I truly feel led to be there and blessed by the Lord to have found such a great Church. I have also had the opportunity to talk to kids at school about the Lord and witness to them, which has been awesome to do; truly led by the Lord.

My mom is coming up later this week to stay with me till we get my knee to a good place. If I have to have surgery she will stay through the surgery and the follow-up therapy. If I just have to have intensive therapy, she will be here through that and help me with the therapy as well as get the house organized (which it desperately needs) more organized. I am looking forward to her coming and being here with me for a while. One of my Aunts will be over sometime this weekend too, just not sure on the timing yet. But, either way, it will be great to spend some time with her; we haven't seen each other in quite a while and she said on the phone tonight that she was looking forward to seeing me and spending some time with me.

Well, I guess I had better get going for now. It's after 1am and I have some things to do in the morning before work tomorrow afternoon. I worked several hours today too. And we have small group tomorrow night, then my mom will be here! I am so excited for her to come up and spend some time with her and also to see my Aunt this weekend!

Ok, I have the perfect song. Hang on while I find it; I will be back. It's by Sugarland (whom are awesome in concert!). Anyway, I just love this song and it makes me feel so good when I hear it on the radio or CMT, I bought the CD today.

Here it is, enjoy:
"Love" by Sugarland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OoZLoLD-AWM

'I say it's love.....'

Night ya'll

It's Still Snowing!!!

2009-01-19T03:13:00.009-05:00

It's about 315am. The dog woke me up about an hour ago; I don't think she is feeling well. I am trying to keep an eye on her, but need to get back to sleep and try to get some rest. My knee is killing me.

It is currently 11 degrees and still snowing off and on. I don't think its ever going to stop, really. I am sick of it already. I have about 9 inches or so in the backyard. It comes up over the tops of my boots when I walk the dog; need to get some taller boots tomorrow (today). Anyhow, they are forecasting snow at least every day through Wednesday of this week; then I think we get a break for a day or two, then it starts up again. What a thrill (not).

I went to a Discover New Life class earlier this evening. It was interesting. Some of it, I don't believe in; most of it, I don't have problem with it. We'll see. I want to talk to a few people and one of the Pastors' before I make a decision. I thought they were going to feed us at the class, but they didn't. So, I stopped at Subway on the way home and got just a sandwich (have chips and soda here at the house).

I got my hair cut this past Friday. Had her take about an inch or more off. It had gotten really long and cutting it perked up my perm a little. I got the perm a little before Thanksgiving, so I am really hoping it will last till Spring Break (end of March) but we will see. Feels better having finally managed to get it cut.

I've got to get to Walmart tomorrow and get a few things, food wise. Need a few other things too; need to look at their shredders and decided which one I want and how much I want to pay. Need to look at alarm clocks and whether or not I want one I can plug my IPOD into, once I get an IPOD. Want to look at new curtains for the kitchen (which means I need to measure the windows); just a few other things.

Well, I think I am going to check on the dog and try to get some rest, just in case she needs help later on. Keep her in your prayers.

Since it is really just plain freezing cold out there; and snowing and snowing and snowing: I think I will look at some songs to take us away to the islands or the beach etc. Be back after I find some.

"Everybody Wanna Go to Heaven" by Kenny Chesney and the Wailers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjaImNS_DSo

"Surfin' USA" by The Beach Boys
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbRKfieMsdQ

"Summertime" by Kenny Chesney
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vSRa-qlKTo

"Love" by Sugarland
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQPdXU_Co-k

"Mud On the Tires" by Brad Paisley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=72UmO0-LtVs

Ok, that's it for now. Hopefully it helped ya'll forget about the snow and cold for a little bit. It did me, although I'd give just about anything to be on a plane tomorrow to somewhere where its warm and there's a nice sandy beach with warm ocean water waitin' on me.

Night ya'll....

Just Life...and Missing The Beach

2009-01-17T18:22:00.013-05:00

Here it is the 3rd Saturday in January already. This month is just flying by, it seems like. Much like last year. I guess it seems like that when you are running at a pretty fast pace. I would rather it be like that, than just dragging by.

As of last week, my soon to be ex has been gone for 7 months. I am to the point where I don't even miss him anymore. The marriage is over, I know that it's over, that is that. We had a big fight last week, which now seems forever ago. I said some things and so did he; then he proceeded to cuss at me and told me to you know, using the f-word. We were in the basement at this point so he could look at the dryer, I put my hand on his chest to stop him from running up the stairs and out the door after he said that to me, telling him he could not speak to me that way in my house. I thought he was gonna hit me then, he was not happy that I touched him to stop him and told him that he could not speak to me that way.

He was supposed to come over this coming Monday to help me start going through things. Well, now he won't come without someone with him (he wanted to bring his dad). He said he wasn't going to end up in jail because of me (where in the world did that come from?). I asked him not to bring his dad, or anyone for that matter, because there are things we need to talk about and emotions I figured we would go through as we sorted through things. He wouldn't do it. So, I told him to forget about coming. I would take care of everything and ship his stuff over to him when I was done with it. He wasn't happy with that either. Nothing I do is the right thing anymore, and frankly, I am done trying to please him. He's making me the bad guy; every thing is my fault.

I don't understand this jail business unless he is afraid he will get mad enough at me for whatever reason, to hit me (like during out fight last week), then he knows I would call the police and he would end up in jail. But, that is his problem, not mine. If he's not grown up enough to control himself and is afraid he'll harm me, that's his problem to deal with, not mine. So, why do I feel like the bad guy and why am I being punished for it? Some days when I have had to talk to him or see him lately, he's been just as nice as could be, and other days, it's like this monster of a person who can't wait to bite my head off and blame every thing that is wrong in his life, on me. I don't get it.

We saw the mediator who is handling our dissolution on November 7th of last year. He has had our info since then. We have both emailed him with small changes and he emailed us about mid-December, apologizing that it was taking so long and that he would have our first rough draft to us in a week or so. Nothing since. I called him this past week, and got his voicemail of course, so I left a message asking him where our stuff was and why it was taking so long? We had originally said we didn't think we'd file till around June or so of this year in order to give me time to find a job and figure out health insurance etc. Well, I have a job and the benefits are coming, so we don't need to wait till June and I told him so; that we didn't want to wait til June.

He has yet to call me back or even email me. I am getting pretty aggravated with him and this business of getting our paperwork done. He's supposed to get us a first draft to look over for a week or so, then email him with changes (if any) and then he'll add the changes, we meet to sign the final copies and that's it; we can file any time after that that we want. I don't understand what's taking him so long? He's had 10 weeks (almost 3 months) to do just our first draft, so where is it? If it's taking him this long to do just the first draft, I pray there are no changes, cause we will never get this thing done then; and I think both of us (soon to be ex and I) need it to be done sooner rather than later. I'm gonna give him till this Thursday (that will make it a week since I called him) and then I will call him again; and keep calling till I get some answers.

It has been so cold here. I don't mean normal winter temps, I mean frigid. One day, I don't think we got above zero (0) degrees for a high. And the wind chills certainly haven't been above zero for a few days. Brrrr. I got an email from my math professor about a question I had asked and at the end of it, she said 'where is spring'? I smiled, because at this point, I want to bypass Spring and head straight for Summer! I am longing for someplace with a very warm beach, and a very warm body of water (Atlantic,Pacific,Caribbean etc) to go along with it!!

I just got another bin of the soon to be ex's stuff ready for him to get tomorrow. I was down in the basement anyways doing laundry and it didn't take long to get the bin together. I am leaving it outside for him; I wrote and told him that there was another one ready for him, that I would suggest he get it before Church rather than after, but that's up to him. It feels good to get the stuff out of here, even though its going to take me a while since its just me doing it. The fun thing is, I get to shred A LOT of stuff!! Of course, this will necessitate me buying a new shredder since our old one has bitten the dust...out to the trash it goes!! I love to shred!

School is going okay this quarter. I have felt a little overwhelmed here at the beginning, getting used to the schedule, the job (which I am slowly working into, increasing hours every week), taking care of just life things (grocery shopping, the dog, the house) and doc appointments. Course, I have had a few extra of those lately because of my back, which is doing much better by the way. I start PT this week. Was supposed to start it last week, on the day of the big snow and freezing temps; so I moved it to this week. which was no big deal. But, I feel some better about things this weekend and feel like I will have a moment to 'catch my breath' since there are no classes Monday.

Tomorrow is Church and I am really looking forward to it. Feel like I really need the refreshment this week. I am taking a class tomorrow evening called 'Discover New Life'. It doesn't mean I am necessarily going to 'join' the Church, but its a good way to get a good overview of the Church and their beliefs etc., ; more than what I have heard from people or read online. Plus, they provide free supper! So, I am looking forward to that.

Well, it's about 9pm now, so I guess I need to get going. The dog is whining to go out (I swear she can tell time) and I need to get ready for bed and think about what I am going to wear to Church in the morning. It's up to 25 degrees! Almost feels downright balmy!

Hmm, now I have to think about a song to add on here at the end. Be back. Okay, since I am right now missing the warm sand between my toes from the beach and the warm ocean, here's a song to transport all of us for a few brief minutes to that wonderful place....

"No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem" By Kenny Chesney
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2AhaN1mi9o

Brrrr and a Little Laugh for a Cold, Cold Day

2009-01-15T12:15:00.005-05:00

So, its currently about 6 degrees here today with a -4 windchill. Nice. We got about 7 inches of snow ( I haven't actually measured accurately) here at the house yesterday. Every thing is a slippery mess and there were more wrecks on the roads this morning than I thought possible.

My body is not at all happy with this storm (and storm after storm pattern we seem to be in right now). My fibro is acting up and my bone arthritis is just killing me. That, of course, does not include the migraine I am currently fighting (and have been since about 530am this morning), or the cough and small fever that I have because my lungs can't handle the cold air at all. Thrilling. Ahh, the sun is trying to come out and it hurts my eyes, but I doubt it will do any good in warming us up. Tonight and tomorrow are supposed to be worse temperature wise and I am so looking forward to that!

Anyways, don't have any songs to share today, but one of my friends sent the "laugh" below in an email and I thought I would share it with ya'll. You know the saying, ' there's a sucker born every minute'; well, I would almost guarantee that there's an idiot born every second. Enjoy the laughs (and you will shake your head at some of these).

For those of you reading this that are in the deep freeze like me, try to keep warm and not get frostbite. Also be careful on the roads if they are snow/ice covered; just remember that probably half of the other drivers out there with you are those 'idiots'!

Enjoy and God Bless.

Guaranteed Your Laugh for the Day!

Number One Idiot of 2008:
I am a medical student currently doing a rotation in toxicology at the poison control center. Today, this woman called in very upset because she caught her little daughter eating ants. I quickly reassured her that the ants are not harmful and there would be no need to bring her daughter into the hospital. She calmed down and at the end of the conversation happened to mention that she gave her daughter some ant poison to eat in order to kill the ants. I told her that she better bring her daughter in to the emergency room right away.
Here's your sign, lady. Wear it with pride.

Number Two Idiot of 2008:
Early this year, some Boeing employees on the airfield decided to steal a life raft from one of the 747s. They were successful in getting it out of the plane and home. Shortly after they took it for a float on the river, they noticed a Coast Guard helicopter coming toward them. It turned out that the chopper was homing in on the emergency locator beacon that activated when the raft was inflated. They are no longer employed at Boeing.
Here's your sign,guys. Don't get it wet; the paint might run.

Number Three Idiot of 2008:
A man, wanting to rob a downtown Bank of America, walked into the Branch and wrote this, "Put all your money in this bag." While standing in line, waiting to give his note to the teller, he began to worry that someone had seen him write the note and might call the police before he reached the teller's window. So he left the Bank of America and crossed the street to the Wells Fargo Bank. After waiting a few minutes in line, he handed his note to the Wells Fargo teller. She read it and, surmising from his spelling errors that he wasn't the brightest light in the harbor, told him that she could not accept his stickup note because it was written on a Bank of America deposit slip and that he would either have to fill out a Wells Fargo deposit slip or go back to Bank of America. Looking somewhat defeated, the man said, "OK" and left. He was arrested a few minutes later, as he was waiting in line back at Bank of America.
Don't bother with this guy's sign. He probably couldn't read it anyway.

Number Four Idiot of 2008:
A motorist was unknowingly caught in an automated speed trap that; measured his speed using radar and photographed his car. He later received in the mail a ticket for $40 and a photo of his car. Instead of payment, he sent the police department a photograph of $40. Several days later, he received a letter from the police that contained another picture, this time of handcuffs. He immediately mailed in his $40.
Wise guy........But you still get a sign

Number Five Idiot of 2008:
A guy walked into a little corner store with a shotgun and demanded all of the cash from the cash drawer. After the cashier put the cash in a bag, the robber saw a bottle of Scotch that he wanted behind the counter on the shelf. He told the cashier to put it in the bag as well, but the cashier refused and said, "Because I don't believe you are over 21." The robber s aid he was, but the clerk still refused to give it to him because she didn't believe him. At this point, the robber took his driver's license out of his wallet and gave it to the clerk. The clerk looked it over and agreed that the man was in fact over 21 and she put the Scotch in the bag. The robber then ran from the store with his loot. The cashier promptly called the police and gave the name and address of the robber that he got off the license. They arrested the robber two hours later.
This guy definitely needs a sign.

Idiot Number Six of 2008:
A pair of Michigan robbers entered a record shop nervously waving revolvers. The first one shouted, "Nobody move!" When his partner moved, the startled first bandit shot him.
This guy doesn't even deserve a sign.

Idiot Number Seven of 2008:
Arkansas : Seems this guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinder block through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinder block and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinder block bounced back knocking him unconscious. It seems the liquor store window was made of PlexiGlass. The whole event was caught on videotape.
Yep, here's your sign.

Idiot Number Eight of 2008:
We live in a semi-rural area, ( Weyauwega , Wisconsin ), and we recently had a new neighbor call the local township administrative office to request the removal of the Deer Crossing sign on our road. The reason: "Too many deer are being hit by cars out here! - I don't think this is a good place for them to be crossing anymore."

STAY ALERT! They walk among us, they REPRODUCE!

Winter Storm Warning

2009-01-10T09:26:00.008-05:00

Right now we are under a Winter Storm Warning. We have been since late last night and it will continue throughout today. Right now we are getting just plain freezing rain. I took the dog out about 915am and realized then that my driveway is nice and crunchy and slick; just full of ice and slush! Yuk! After this, we may have some sleet or just plain ice off and on and then snow. I am not sure how many inches we are supposed to get; I have heard anywhere from 1-3" to 3-5" this afternoon/evening. Nice.

This is one of those days when I wonder if I manage to get down the driveway in the car (I need to just run down the road briefly), will I be able to get back up the driveway? When I came home last night, it (the driveway) already had slick spots when I tried to come up it and maneuver the car into the garage.

Oh, thank goodness for the garage!! I won't have to scrape all of this off of it!! Its not much of a garage, just can fit the car in it, but at least its a roof over the cars' head!! I park in the garage at school too, for the same reason. One of these days I will come out of class, it having snowed a great deal, and I won't have to worry about clearing the car; just getting home!! I truly thank God for these small 'favors', truly.

My dryer is having problems. We are hoping that it is the heating element; especially since my Pops found the part for it and shipped it over-night from Kentucky on Thursday (it did arrive yesterday on time). The set is about 14 years old and they are Whirlpool. This is the first bit of trouble I have had with them all of these years. Hopefully it is the heating element (it takes forever to dry my stuff when I do laundry, but there is still a little warmth to things when I pull them out), and when my friends come to replace that this morning, that's all that will have to be done. If we replace the heating element and that doesn't fix the problem, I am told it could be possibly be the thermostat or a sensor. So , we will see. They (the set) have to get me through College and graduation. By then, I plan to have all but my school bills paid off and hopefully able to get a new set on credit (if I need to) by then, if I need it.

My car also needs some help. Evidently I have a hole or the beginnings of a hole somewhere in the muffler system. It sounds just awful and I am embarrassed to drive it with it making such a loud noise. I do not know if it is possible to perhaps put a patch on the hole or if I need to replace the whole thing. I am going to try to seek out a mechanic through my Church and see what they think. Pray that it can just be patched right now and that the patch will hold until I can get rid of the car and get something else. Thanks, ya'll.

Well, I have been given the okay to share that big news. I have found a JOB! It came through my small group at my Church (how cool is God?) and was just amazing how it all came about. When I realized that I did have this opportunity and we first talked about it, I actually cried (this was before Christmas and we were in a restaurant at Easton). I have been looking for 'that' job for so long; since the end of last July/beginning of August! It's just like my mom said: God would provide the right job at the right time, and He has! She had even said last fall when I got a little discouraged about it all, that maybe the job didn't even exist yet (little did she know!). God is just so great!!

Ok. So here is a little about the job. It is just getting started, first of all. Not just my job, but the business in general. It is called B.L.E.S.S. INC. (how cool is that?). That stands for: Building Lasting & Evolving Steps to Success. Cool huh? Our mission is: "We are dedicated to providing exceptional customer care to people in need of assistance with breaking barriers, dealing with life changes, and building to self-sufficiency." As I said, we are just getting started, but hope to be fully up and running by the beginning of February and have our office downtown set up by the first of March. It's going to take a lot of work, but God is with us. My boss and I truly believe in this and that God wants us to work together on this.

So, that's a little bit about it. I worked a few hours last week and this week and will again this coming week, steadily increasing my hours. The pay is beyond what I even prayed for; where she wants to put the office is exactly what I prayed for; and it comes with benefits!!! God does provide for all!!! He knew exactly what I needed in every aspect of this position, right down to the pay and benefits, and has provided exactly what I needed and more!!! WOW! How amazing and cool is God??

Things are a little better with the soon to be ex too. We have both made our apologies for the other night. We have talked some, though not a great deal. He has agreed to come a week from this Monday to help start working on the house and sorting through things. I appreciate that very much. Just keep us in your prayers. I am ready for this to be over with; however, at the same time, I don't want him to be my mortal enemy at the end of this either. I don't think we will be great friends (maybe good friends?), but I still hope and pray that some day we will come to a point where we can at least share a meal and talk once in a blue moon or so. But, there will be some hard times (not necessarily harsh, like the other night) before that happens and we both have a lot of healing to do yet, but that is what I hope. I want him to be well, happy and where God wants him to be.

Well, I guess that is it for now. I could probably write tons more, but I should get started on the house-cleaning and continue working on my homework. I need to find a song and I don't know what to pick for today. Hmm. Be back, going to look. Ok, here we go...

"Awesome God" by Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38V8jnN1Kpw

Ok, this next one is kind of long, but WOW! I hope it moves you like it did me.
"Agnus Dei" by Michael W. Smith
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPBmFwBSGb0

God Bless and Ya'll Keep Safe.

Winter Quarter Begins

2009-01-08T16:10:00.006-05:00

Well, winter quarter started this past Monday (5th). And it came with winter!!! What a surprise! Right now it is about 19 degrees with a wind chill (stressing the word chill) is about 9 degrees! So nice and cold! And there is snow on the ground. It snowed most of the day (at least down by campus it did); we don't really have that much snow, but it just makes it feel that much colder! But wait!! This next week, we are going to have highs in the teens and lows in the single digits!! How pleasant is that??? Find me a warm beach with some sun NOW!

It has been a long, long week. I am only taking 2 classes this quarter, but they are going to kick my butt. Its not that they are that difficult, just a lot of work; a lot of reading and assignments, a project, and just regular homework. Tuesdays and Thursdays are my long days and boy are they long! I am thankful, however, that my Political Science professor gives us a break about half-way through (its a 2 1/2hr class each day we meet) to get up and move around, take care of other business, whatever. So, I am glad for that.

With that and another thing that will start taking up my time on a more and more regular basis, I am going to have to drop one thing, I think. It's just too much with everything else that is going on right now.

So, today just to add to my stress (as if there isn't enough in my life already), my car decides to throw its two cents worth into the mix and start acting up. Took me about 10 minutes to get it started this morning. It was beginning to get to the point where I thought I was going to have to call for a ride so I wouldn't miss my classes, and it finally started. It hesitated on the way home, but started and then began making this awful racket. I don't know what it is, but its loud and right under my feet and I can feel the vibration in my feet on the pedals. Nice huh?? I hate that piece of junk.

I had my "independence day" over the weekend. My soon to ex was stopping over to get a few things on Saturday at a time I wasn't going to be able to be here. So, I left him a big (Rubbermaid) bin full of his stuff, clothes, pictures etc., in the kitchen for him. I left him a nice note and asked him if he would please take the bin full of his stuff. I also asked him to drop his house key in the mail slot after he locked the door and was leaving. To my surprise, when I got home later in the evening, he had taken the bin, left his key and no nasty text messages, emails or notes about it. That really surprised me; his attitude lately has left a little to be desired on my part and there have been times when he was just down right rude and mean over the holidays. But, I did that (I emptied his dresser into the bin) and asked for his key as a means of taking my life back and saying ' you can be as mean and rude as you want, I have a life and am going on with it.' IT FELT GREAT!!!

I got rid of my engagement ring over the holidays. I took it back to the store where we purchased it over 18 years ago and asked what I could do with it. So after looking around and doing some thinking, I traded it in on a nice pair of diamond earrings. It was a little difficult ( I shed a few tears in the car afterwards), but I had a friend with me, and after a few minutes, was fine. It felt great to do that too and I must say, I look great with the diamond earrings in two of the many holes in my ears! Another piece of the puzzle of getting on with my life and not letting anything he says or does (and believe me, a few things have not been all that great) get to me or affect me. He'll have to deal with whatever consequences his actions bring upon him, not me. I am done. DO YOU HEAR ME??? DONE!!!

So, I am laying here in bed last night, watching tv. It's bedtime and I had taken my bedtime meds, but was watching a tv show I like and I got to paying attention to the theme song and really liked it. I at first thought it was old school David Bowie, but after doing some digging, found out that it wasn't him after all. It's a group called 'The VLA'. The song is 'When I am Through With You', I particularly like the chorus. Now, I will put a disclaimer here and say this isn't directed at any one person. However, if some person should see this and hear the song and pay attention to it, maybe it will send this person a message of sorts.

As the sign I saw in the mall last weekend said "If you can't be nice; just leave!"

And as always, here is the song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNU2nOo1EwM

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

2009-01-01T10:04:00.008-05:00

Happy New Year to all of you! Or as we say in the south, to all ya'll!! I hope that each and every one of you had a great Christmas and if you went to a New Years Eve party last night, a great New Years Eve!

I myself went to a New Years Eve party at a friends' house. I had a good time, but came home just a little before midnight. Got the dog walked, it had just started to snow, and was back inside the house to see the ball drop in New York City. The party was nice and I enjoyed meeting some new people, but I wanted to be home before midnight for my reasons.

This was my first new years eve in 19 years as a 'single' gal. I put 'single' in little quotes because I am still married, although separated, and the marriage is ending. It was hard in some ways (another reason I wanted to be home before midnight), and yes, I did cry a little bit, but they were just mostly small tears. I was on the phone with my parents when the ball dropped and I said that this year was going to be a big year ( I turn 40 this year, my marriage is ending, I am back in school etc), and my mom said it would be my best year yet. I hope that she is right. I need a really good year.

Last year was a year of a lot of heartache, changes, and growth. In many ways I hated last year; In many ways, I was glad for what all of that brought forth. I grew in God in amazing ways (still am) and He is doing amazing things in my life and I am so thankful for that. Last year I found myself at a new church that brought new friends and great support with all that I have been through. I am so thankful for all of that.

Last year brought my return to college after a 18 year absence to finally finish my bachelors' degree. I got through fall quarter with a 3.0 GPA and winter quarter starts this Monday (5th). I am taking 9 hrs (2 classes) this quarter. Things are going a little slower than I wanted, but it is better this way I think, because I am able to adjust in small increments and concentrate well and do well.

Last year brought another nephew into my life. It was a surprise for every one, including his mom and dad! They had not planned for him to arrive until this year, but surprise!! We are glad to have him; glad that he was born healthy and easily. I got to spend some time with them over this past weekend and they are both growing so fast! I cannot get over it! This new nephew is going to be my little linebacker! He has my big German bones and is more leggy, like me, than his older brother; the older brother is tall (and I do mean tall!) will be my basketball player. He is built more like his dad and is so skinny!! They are both good, sweet boys though and I love them both very much.

Last year, late in the year, brought my cousin home from his last tour of Iraq. He has a few more months in the Army and then he is done. I am so proud of him and all that he has endured and accomplished, but I am glad that he is done. This last tour was his groups' longest and hardest on those of us left here at home. I prayed a hedge of protection around his specific little group, and to my knowledge, they didn't lose anyone this tour! Praise the Lord!

As many of you know, late in the year, we lost grandma. In some ways, I was surprised, and in some ways not. She was 94 yrs old after all. I will miss her, but know that she is happy in heaven and young and beautiful again. And I know that she'll keep an eye on me like others that have gone before her from my family.

This year, I am going to continue with my college pursuits. I hope at some point to finally find a job (its been so tough out there!). I hope that God will continue to grow me and continue to do the amazing things that He has already been doing in my life. I want to get my back healed (which we are working on) and get back to my workouts; I miss them and I don't like the shape my body is in. I have only been able to not do them for about 6 weeks and have noticed I am losing all that toning and strength I had worked so hard on. I hope to be a better person this year, a better friend, a better Christian, just better over all.

I hope that each one of you will accomplish what you want to this year. I hope that each of will grow in God. Will grow in your personal life. I hope that this year will bring each of you all that you hope for in your life.

Ok, so now I need to find a song. I am not going to pick the usual new years song. To me its too sad and I want something upbeat and happy. Something that supports what I hope this year will bring for me. So, I am off to find a song. Be back.

Ok. Here is the first song. It's probably one of my all time favorites and I like the way this group does it.

"Amazing Grace" by IL DIVO
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMVxzEueJ6A

"Hallelujah" by IL DIVO
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2SZ-nCBmsU

"Fly Me to the Moon" by Frank Sinatra
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rAsoLm1Ges

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-25T11:22:00.005-05:00

Luke 2: 1 - 20

1) Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth.
2) This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.
3) And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
4) Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is also called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David,
5) in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.
6) While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
7) And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
8) In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night.
9) And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.
10) But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all people;
11) for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
12) This will be sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
13) And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,
14) "Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased."
15) When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, "Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us."
16) So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
17) When they had seen this, the made known the statement which had be told them about this Child.
18) And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.
19) But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
20) The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as he been told them.

Matthew 2: 1-12

1) Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herrod the king, magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem, saying,
2) "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him."
3) When Herrod the kind heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4) Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born.
5) They said to him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet:
6) 'AND YOU, BETHLEHEM, LAND OF JUDAH,
ARE BY NO MEANS LEAST AMONG THE LEADERS OF JUDAH: FOR OUT OF YOU SHALL COME FORTH A RULER WHO WILL SHEPHERD MY PEOPLE OF ISRAEL.'"
7) Then Herrod secretly called the magi and determined from them the exact time the star appeared.
8) He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and search carefully for the Child; and when you have found Him, report to me, so that I too may come and worship Him."
9) After hearing from the king, they went on their way; and the star, which they had seen in the east, went on before them until it came and stood over the place where the Child was.
10) When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
11) After coming to the house they saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they fell to the ground and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasurers, they presented to Him the gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
12) And having been warned by God in a dream not to return to Herrod, the magi left for their own country by another way.

On this day, the day of Jesus birth, I will ask you the question my Pastor asked us last night at our Christmas Eve service. Who do you really believe that baby in the manger was that day? Do you believe that He was the Son of God; sent to earth to save us from our sins? Or do you believe He was just a prophet who was not the Messiah.

He truly was the Messiah for us. He was sent to earth to live a human life, die on a cross and save us from our sins.

You shall call His name Jesus, and He will save you from your sins.

I hope that you will take this day, of all days, to search your heart and soul, and see what you believe. Do you believe in Him? Is He your Savior? If He is not your Savior, why not take today to give Him the greatest gift you can give Him, YOU! Surrender yourself and your sins to Him and ask Him into your heart.

May God Bless Each and Every One of You on this Blessed Day. And May You Have Blessed New Year!

"All Come, All Ye Faithful" by Celtic Women
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eLDvM7eSq0

"Angels We Have Heard On High" by Sandi Patty
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bnP0k0JdOQ

Dearest Grandma

2008-12-19T05:29:00.008-05:00

Dearest Grandma:

This past Sunday night(the 14th), sometime during the night, you went home to be with our gracious Lord and Savior. I am glad that you went in your sleep and that, although you had had some physical difficulties lately, you weren't sick for a long time before you went Home. I am so thankful for that.

I know that you are in heaven having a good time with Grandpa D., and all of the other family members and friends that have gone on before you. I know that you were amazed at the glory of the beauty of God’s face and the love that shown through it as He welcomed you into heaven with His open arms. I can’t wait to see that day myself!

Haha! Remember that night that we stayed down there with you on the farm and I got up in the middle of the night to pee or something? There were those white cows out there (I forget what you call them) out in the yard that had gotten out of the neighbors pens and I screamed like the little girl that I am, thinking they were "ghost cows"? You got the biggest kick out out of that, I do remember that! You laughed and laughed; even while you called the neighbors to tell them to come get their cows! You told them I thought they were ghost cows too!!! That's what'ya get for having a small town girl out in the country! Hahaha! We had some good times, didn't we?

Well, Gramm, I am going to go. It is almost 535am and a I am tired. I have been awake most of the night. Its raining and I like the sound of the rain; maybe that will lull me to sleep yet . So, I am going to lay back down and try to get some extra rest before I have to get up and moving for the day.

Thank you for being my grandma these past 17 or so years and for welcoming me so much into the family. You reminded me so much of my mom’s mom, it was uncanny. I am so glad that you were a part of my life for all of these years and that I will always have these memories and pictures of you.

Have no doubts, however, that you will be missed by me a lot. I am once again without any grandparents, but know that all of you are up there in Heaven, meeting each other for the first time, and talking about what ornery kids we were/are!!! Haha! ;-)

Thanks for being there for me. Thanks for loving me as you did. Thanks for laughing at my silly things or even when I tried to tell a joke (cause you know I am not good at telling jokes).
Thanks for being the woman you were; for being the Godly woman you were.

I wish that we would have had more time together here on this earth; but I know that we will have all of eternity some day to sit and talk in heaven about the things we didn’t get to talk about here on earth.

I love you; I’ll miss you and I will probably ‘talk’ to you from time to time. Give Grandpa D. and Grandma F. a hug for me. Tell them I love them too. I am sorry I wasn't at your funeral to say goodbye properly, but hey, you weren't there either! So, this is my way to say good-bye to you. Although I prefer to say, 'See Ya Later'.

Ya’ll don’t party too hard till the rest of us get up to Heaven; then we can let loose! We'll party, party then! God and the angels better make sure they have enough food etc., for when we're all up there together again and ready to PARTY!

Here’s some songs for you that I think you would like and they also mean a lot to me.

I love you, Grandma.

Your Granddaughter forever,
Meg

"Amazing Grace: My Chains Are Gone" by Chris Tomlin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AXV6HJxUebg

"Great Is Thy Faithfulness" by Steve Green
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G1O8kVT4A-w

"When We All Get to Heaven" by Brad Paisley
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ZnUY3CcH8A

"Sweet By and By" by Bird Youmans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3T2bZ1SHBIo

"Time To Say Goodbye" by Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pamC18f_T8

LOVE YOU GRAMM'S.....ALWAYS....