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Tuesday, September 30, 2008

New posts that are backdated...

OK..there are a few posts that are WAY backdated (one was saved in Drafts from 9/20 that I forgot to post) and I was waiting to edit some photos for another couple... but 9/20 and on there are some new posts (WITH PICTURES OF MY ADORABLE BOYS ON THERE) that I'd love you to check out! :)

Monday, September 29, 2008

This pretty much sums up a lot of feelings



Top 10 Cities in Poverty

I never thought of this in this light but, I can certainly understand it. To go a little further along this vein, the Dallas Independent School District has been run by Democrats for years and has been mired in financial messes for years. Just today, the Dallas Morning News (Liberal rag that it is) reported a mere budgetary shortfall in the current budget of $64 Million. I'd seriously question the Superintendant's qualifications as it was due to hiring 750 new teachers. You'd think somebody with a PhD could at least get a monthly briefing on his status. Democrats have the philosophy that what they want to spend, they can just do it and raise taxes if they run out of money.

Obama and the Congressional Majority have this same mindset. Let's vote all of them out! That superintendant at DISD better be glad he doesn't work for me because I'd fire his arse before dark this evening!


What do the top ten cities with the highest poverty rate all have in common?

Detroit, MI (1st on the poverty rate list) hasn't elected a Republican mayor since 1961;

Buffalo, NY (2nd) hasn't elected one since 1954;

Cincinnati, OH (3rd)...since 1984;

Cleveland, OH (4th)...since 1989;

Miami, FL (5th) has never had a Republican mayor;

St. Louis, MO (6th)....since 1949;

El Paso, TX (7th) has never had a Republican mayor;

Milwaukee, WI (8th)...since 1908;

Philadelphia, PA (9th)...since 1952;

Newark, NJ(10th)...since 1907.

Einstein once said, 'The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.'

It is the disadvantaged who habitually elect Democrats --- yet are still disadvantaged.



To clear things up..

JULY 8, 1947

Many of you will recall that on July 8, 1947, nearly 60 years ago, witnesses claim that an unidentified flying object (UFO) with five aliens aboard crashed onto a sheep and cattle ranch just outside Roswell, New Mexico. This is a well-known incident that many say has long been covered up by the U.S. Air Force and other federal Agencies and organizations.

However, what you may NOT know is that in the month of March 1948, nine months after that historic day, the following people were born:

Albert A. Gore, Jr.Hillary Rodham,
John F. Kerry,
William J. Clinton,
Howard Dean,
Nancy Pelosi,
Dianne Feinstein,
Charles E. Schumer,
Barbara Boxer


See what happens when aliens breed with sheep?

I certainly hope this bit of information clears up a lot of things for you.

It did for me.

I have a question!

If 4 out of 5 people SUFFER from diarrhea...does that mean that one out of five enjoys it?

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Why do croutons come in airtight packages? Aren't they just stale bread to begin with?

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If people from Poland are called Poles, then why aren't people from Holland called Holes?

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If it's true that we are here to help others, then what exactly are the others here for?

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If Fed Ex and UPS were to merge, would they call it Fed UP? ?

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What hair color do they put on the driver's licenses of bald men?

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I thought about how mothers feed their babies with tiny little spoons and forks, so I wondered what do Chinese mothers use. Toothpicks?

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Why do they put pictures of criminals up in the Post Office? What are we supposed to do, write to them? Why don't they just put their pictures on the postage stamps so the mailmen can look for them while they deliver the mail?

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Is it true that you never really learn to swear until you learn to drive?

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As income tax time approaches, did you ever notice: When you put the two words 'The' and 'IRS' together, it spells

'THEIRS'?

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Have you SEEN this?

Is this real food? It can't be. Ewwww... Click HERE to be educated why our children are entering the obesity epidemic at alarming rates.


Another fun site...

Ever wonder what the top songs were the day you were born? Of COURSE ya do! Check out THIS site to find out... it's awesome! You can even listen to it streaming from your computer! Too cool!

Lists

Anyone that truly knows me knows that I am a listmaker. At any given time, I have any number of on-going lists in various locations, at various states of completion. But I'm not only a listmaker, I am ALSO a compulsive perfectionist which means that when I cross more than two or three things off said list, I must rewrite the list because it's then ugly and cluttered with things that have been accomplished. It's truly an ugly cycle of insanity but alas, I continue to do this day in, day out.

Then along comes the Palm Pilot. What a genius idea. Perhaps I shall store all my lists in the one handy, dandy spot and voila... it's there at the ready... electronic and all. It's the perfect solution... until I want to print OUT the list which means that it's NOT perfect because how can you do this? I need some kind of printable list software for my palm. Grrrr... why can't I be more technically geekish so that I can develop just what >I< need -- screw everyone else... doesn't everyone know that it's all about ME anyway! HA HA HA (that's a joke, son!) Until then... I'll continue my paper lists... perhaps finding another place to put my lists will be the next task ON my list. :)

But there are a few other lists that I have saved that I do like... one is the 100 greatest novelty songs... check these out. :) Some of these... I used to have when I was a kid on some LP's. One was called Dumb Diddies and the other album was called Looney Tunes. I would love to find those again - not that I have a freakin record player to put them on but STILL! :) For nostalgic purposes perhaps.. NO.. that'd be more clutter... ok... at least I can stroll down memory lane here... with you... in the comfort of my own home... but when I used to listen to these albums... I was in my house on Woodoak Drive probably sitting on my bright green bean bag on our three-tone green shag carpet... in my room with my white walls and yellow/orange printed bed spread. It was a great room... and this.... this is a great list...

1. They're Coming To Take Me Away, Ha-Haaa - Napoleon XIV
2. Monster Mash - Bobby "Boris" Pickett & the Crypt-Kickers
3. Charlie Brown - The Coasters
4. The Purple People Eater - Sheb Wooley
5. Alley Oop - The Hollywood Argyles
6. Witch Doctor - David Seville
7. Open The Door, Richard - Dusty Fletcher
8. Hello Muddah, Hello Faddah - Allen Sherman
9. Grandma Got Run over by a Reindeer - Elmo & Patsy
10. Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor - Lonnie Donegan
11. Mr. Custer - Larry Verne
12. The Flying Saucer (Pts 1 & 2) - Buchanan & Goodman
13. King Tut - Steve Martin
14. Eat It - "Weird Al" Yankovic
15. The Streak - Ray Stevens
16. The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don't Be Late) - The Chipmunks
17. Disco Duck - Rick Dees and his Cast Of Idiots
18. Transfusion - Nervous Norvus
19. Ahab The Arab - Ray Stevens
20. Junk Food Junkie - Larry Groce
21. Time Warp (from Rocky Horror Picture Show) - Transylvanians
22. Along Came Jones - Coasters
23. Leader Of The Laundromat - The Detergents
24. Gitarzan - Ray Stevens
25. Tip Toe Thru' The Tulips With Me - Tiny Tim
26. The Name Game - Shirley Ellis
27. Fat - "Weird Al" Yankovic
28. My Ding-a-Ling - Chuck Berry
29. Snoopy vs. the Red Baron - The Royal Guardsmen
30. Rubber Biscuit - Chips
31. Tie Me Kangaroo Down Sport - Rolf Harris
32. I Put A Spell On You - Screamin' Jay Hawkins
33. Basketball Jones featuring Tyrone Shoelaces - Cheech & Chong
34. Ding Dong! The Witch Is Dead - The Fifth Estate
35. Another One Rides the Bus - "Weird Al" Yankovic
36. On Top Of Spaghetti - Tom Glazer &. the Do Re Mi Childrens Choir
37. Dead Skunk - Loudon Wainwright III
38. Smells Like Nirvana - "Weird Al" Yankovic
39. Curley Shuffle - Jump In The Saddle Band
40. Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini - Brian Hyland
41. Osama Yo' Mama - Ray Stevens
42. Valley Girl - Frank Zappa
43. Beep Beep - The Playmates
44. My Bologna - "Weird Al" Yankovic
45. Convoy - C.W. McCall
46. The Chanukah Song - Adam Sandler
47. Dinner With Drac - Zacherle
48. Shaddup You Face - Joe Dolce
49. Pac-Man Fever - Buckner & Garcia
50. Why Don't We Get Drunk - Jimmy Buffet
51. Dancin' Fool - Frank Zappa
52. The Twelve Days of Christmas - Bob and Doug McKenzie
53. My Girl Bill - Jim Stafford
54. The Homecoming Queen's Got A Gun - Julie Brown
55. Like A Surgeon - "Weird Al" Yankovic
56. Shriner's Convention - Ray Stevens
57. St. George And The Dragonet - Stan Freberg
58. The Mouse - Soupy Sales
59. The Mississippi Squirrel Revival - Ray Stevens
60. Disco Sucks - Chuck Wagon & The Wheels
61. Fish Heads - Barnes & Barnes
62. Surfin' Bird - The Trashmen
63. I Lost On Jeopardy - "Weird Al" Yankovic
64. Lumberjack Song - Monty Python
65. Don't Eat the Yellow Snow - Frank Zappa
66. Cows With Guns - Dana Lyons
67. Seven Little Girls Sitting In The Back Seat - Paul Evans & The Curls
68. Living With A Hernia - "Weird Al" Yankovic
69. Santa Claus and His Old Lady - Cheech & Chong
70. You Can't Roller Skate In A Buffalo Herd - Roger Miller
71. Money For Nothing/Beverly Hillbillies - "Weird Al" Yankovic
72. Big Bruce - Steve Greenberg
73. Stranded In The Jungle - The Cadets
74. I Love Rocky Road - "Weird Al" Yankovic
75. The Jolly Green Giant - The Kingsmen
76. Jingle Bells - Singing Dogs
77. Highly Illogical - Leonard Nimoy
78. Martian Hop - The Ran-Dells
79. Earache My Eye - Cheech & Chong
80. Star Trekkin' - The Firm
81. Hamster Love - Big Daddy
82. Barbie Girl - Aqua
83. Yogi - Ivy Three
84. Addicted To Spuds - "Weird Al" Yankovic
85. Cause I'm A Blonde - Julie Brown
86. Gumball Wizard - Brad Stanfield
87. Pencil Neck Geek - Fred Blassie
88. I Saw Elvis In A U.F.O. - Ray Stevens
89. Everybody's Free (to wear sunscreen) - Baz Luhrmann
90. I Think I'm A Clone Now - "Weird Al" Yankovic
91. Mr. Jaws - Dickie Goodman
92. Life Sucks, Then You Die - The Fools
93. Telephone Man - Meri Wilson
94. Halloween Dance - Reverend Horton Heat
95. Elvis Was A Narc - Pinkard & Bowden
96. I'm A Nut - Leroy Pullins
97. My Boomerang Won't Come Back - Charlie Drake
98. Wet Dream - Kip Addotta
99. Gimme Dat Ding - The Pipkins
100. I Farted on Santa's Lap (Now Christmas is Gonna Stink for Me) - The Little Stinker

Weddings

Honestly, I think everyone should just elope... there's so much excess involved in births, deaths ... and weddings!

BUT, I guess if we didn't have them, we'd miss great stuff like THIS

Sunday, September 28, 2008

The Mosy Scrapper -- Come check it out!!

Come check out The Mosy Scrapper -- she's got her new kits in and up on the store... contests are hopping... fun games.. I'm even hosting Bingo AND Wheel of Fortune. Come try to solve the problems... I dare ya!

Check us out HERE

Saturday, September 27, 2008

I love this... it's real people...

I hope you take the time to check it out... makes you WANT to make a difference. Very cool indeed.



Friday, September 26, 2008

Brilliant!

The Birk Economic Recovery Plan


I REALLY like this plan.

I'm against the $85,000,000,000.00 bailout of AIG.

Instead, I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a We Deserve It Dividend.

To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000 bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.

Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..

So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billon that equals $425,000.00.

My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a We Deserve It Dividend.

Of course, it would NOT be tax free. So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.

Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes. That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.

But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket. A husband and wife has $595,000.00.

What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
  • Pay off your mortgage – housing crisis solved.
  • Repay college loans – what a great boost to new grads
  • Put away money for college – it'll be there
  • Save in a bank – create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
  • Buy a new car – create jobs
  • Invest in the market – capital drives growth
  • Pay for your parent's medical insurance – health care improves
  • Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean – or else


    Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
    who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
    that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.

    If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...instead of trickling out
    a puny $1000.00 ( "vote buy" ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.

    If we're going to do an $85 billion bailout, let's bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!

    As for AIG – liquidate it.
    Sell off its parts.
    Let American General go back to being American General.
    Sell off the real estate.
    Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.

    Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't. Sure it's a crazy idea that can "never work." But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party! How do you spell Economic Boom?

    I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC. And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.

    Ahhh...I feel so much better getting that off my chest.





    Economics 101

    I want EVERYONE to check this out..



    It's a little long but it's AWESOME... it speaks the truth... you can't balk at facts ladies and gentlemen.

    Thursday, September 25, 2008

    Certificate of Merit

    Today was the big day... my first pack meeting as the Cubmaster for our Pack. Silly, I know, but I was a bit intimidated at first at the very thought of speaking before parents. I've never had a problem with public speaking (or singing). But I actuallyhave to act like I KNOW WHAT I'm TALKING ABOUT NOW!

    Don't get me wrong, I'm GREAT with kids but parents give me the heebie jeebies. However, my Committee Chair, John got the night started off right and having great Scouters there like Jeff Palmer and John Woods there to welcome me and support me was a big help to boost my confidence level.

    We started out the night with a gathering activity to get the boys to mingle... the winner was awarded a bag of marbles to him earn his marbles loop and/or pin. Then the meeting was officially kicked off with John and a very HIGH ENERGY scream. It got EVERYONE's attention. It was truly a night like no other... we had two Eagle Scouts in attendance that started out as Tigers with our Pack... the LEADERS SANG!!! We had a great skit... Jeff/John led the audience in a FUN SONG.... The popcorn kernels did a fantstic job. Bill got a pie in his face... we had lots and lots and lots of fun... as soon as I get the photos uploaded... you'll be able to check out the fun at www.pack317.org (I do the website there too!) :) BUT...the highlight of my evening was not only having my family there... but also watching my son, Josh, get recognized by the Boy Scouts of America with a Certificate of Merit for saving Drew's life (from drowning back in June). He received this Certificate from the National Court of Honor. Michael Brown, our District Executive was on hand to present it to him... it was just very special and I'm glad that he knows what a big deal it was... Here is my hero... with his well-deserved award.

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    Wednesday, September 24, 2008

    Slurp master!

    We have reached a monumental day at my home... Drew has learned how to slurp a spaghetti noodle up. He's tried in vain for the last several months each time I would serve spaghetti noodles and tonight, by George, he got it right!

    Sigh... kinda makes you get a little teary-eyed doesn't it?

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    Bloggies!

    My two friends Felecia and Mary have both nominated me for a Brilliante Blog Award. :) Thanks girls! :)

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    I can't, however, with any confidence claim that I am brilliant but it's neat regardless. :) See, BRILLIANT people don't use the word "neat." They would, instead use something far more eloquent that would make you feel as if you'd read soemthing straight from the lines of Hemmingway (brilliant author, by the way.)

    So, any-who, according to Felecia's blog:

    The purpose of this one is to promote as many blogs as possible in the blogosphere.

    The rules are as follows:

    1. When you receive the prize you must write a post showing it, together with the name of who has given it to you, and link back to them.

    2. Choose a minimum of 7 blogs (or even more) that you find brilliant in their content or design.

    3. Show their names and links and leave them a comment informing they were prized with 'Brilliant Weblog'.

    4. And then pass it on!

    I agree with both women in that it seems cool to me to pass along the things I find brilliant at the moment and I’d love to give some blogs that inspire me a little push… so without further ado, here are my nominations for brilliant blog awards -- (and, mind you, I'd have nominated the two that had sent it to me if they hadn't already received it)

    1) The Mosy Scrapper is a fantastic scrapbook blog... BUT the message board and it's owner, my friend Christa Weldon... well, she just makes it one of the best scrappy sites on the web!

    2) Tip Junkie in the world of going green and NOT recreating the wheel, this is a blog full of fun inspirations for everyone! I'm always going, "WOW" when I see what's on there! You will too!

    3) Taylored Expressions is a fantastic inspiration blog for any card creator out there. This woman just makes it look so easy...they're beautiful and practical and I'm blown away every time I check it out!

    4) Southern Sassiness is written by a woman that I became good friends with through MOPS. She's since moved to Oklahoma but I love being able to check in on her and see what's new in her world. She has an incredible style for decorating... and she's just a great, fun, Christian momma.

    5) Wendy Rago is the owner of the Scrapbook Kit Club - Bad Girls. Her kits rock, her design team is AMAZING and it's just a supa supa site to get inspiration from.

    6) Greta rocks --- what more can I say?!

    7) K. Rebecca Oehlers is like... Martha Stewart of craftiness... but without the bad attitude. Fun stuff.

    8) and last, but CERTAINLY not least is my friend from another board that is no longer in business but is a new MEMORY MAKERS MASTER -- Annabelle She's just DA BOMB BABY!


    If you're on a diet....

    The best snack you can eat while on a diet is the 100 calorie popcorn packs... Why? Because you can grab a HANDFUL of it and SHOVE IT IN YOUR MOUTH and actually feel like you're being given the opportunity to pig out! Gluttony is bliss in that milisecond that you're in the moment.

    I picked Josh up early from school, stopped back by the house for a snack for him, gathered Drew's things, picked up Drew, went to Michaels to get the boys some entertainment for the appointments that followed. I took Josh to the dentist -- YES, his father is a pediatric dentist BUT he needs a local dentist. So he now has Drew's dentist and I now have a referral to an orthodontist. He needs it...we're going to take care of it. From there we went to Drew's swimming lessons. HE SWAM! I was SO PROUD! He had the arms, legs... the whole nine yards! GO DREW! :)

    Then we went to Market Street to grab some ready to heat dinner since I didn't have time to make dinner. They enjoyed it and I came home and made some fat free hot dogs and ate some baked lays (BLECH)... oh well... I jsut realized I ate like NO veggies today... that can't be good! I need to plan my days out better I suppose.

    Maybe I'll work on that this weekend. :) ha ha! yeah right.

    Tuesday, September 23, 2008

    Superman turns 38

    Today is Superman's birthday. And can you believe I hung up a banner in the dining room but FORGOT TO SAY IT?! I get so focused on things that when the though leaves my mind... it's GONE. I promise, I DID call to apologize for not saying anything. Whoops...

    Today after taking Drew to school, I came home and went for a run. Well, I STARTED out with the INTENTION of running but my boobs got the best of me. I'll be the first one on the PLANET to ask, "WHY IN THE HECK WOULD ANY WOMAN WANT TO GET BIGGER THAN A C CUP?" I tried doing my fast walk to warm up...and then took it to a slow jog. Then realized that I forgot to put on my second sports bra. Yeah, that's me, Busty LaRoux over here bouncing all over the freakin' place. I forgot to wear a sports bra and let me tell you folks, without the support behind curtain #2, a steady, comfortable jog just ain't happening! So I TRIED to jog... then walked...then jogged, then walked. I did basically 1.24 miles at the pace of a 17 minute mile. :( Not too good but hey, at least I did SOMETHING. I didn't have long because I had to run up to Sylvan to meet with some head honcho up there about Josh's test results.

    I can't remember if I posted about that... I took Josh in because he has really been struggling in math. He was struggling at the end of last year and I inquired with his teacher if she thought I should have him go to tutoring. Sylvan was recommended then but because he was leaving in the summer for 5 weeks, I didn't want to do that just because of it seemed like it was going to be a logistical nightmare. So, instead I told my ex how he was struggling and asked for him to PLEASE work with him on math DAILY while he was up there... he needed to be proficient with his addition/subtraction and have an exposure to multiplication and division. All 5 books came back to me unopened, untouched and still in the suitcase where I put them. They did NOTHING all 5 weeks he was there. Yeah, I couldn't believe it either.

    So I tried to play catch up all I could for the last couple of weeks before school started but, I can't make up for 5 weeks of missing practice. Needless to say, he's already struggling again. 72 on the first 2 math tests and that really has me worried. I'm worried, as well, how his grades across the board are going to be...

    So anyway, I get to Sylvan, talk to the lady... things are okay.. just listening about the program (actually sounds quite beneficial) but she's wanting him to come in FOUR HOURS A WEEK at $45-50 an hour... yeah, can you say $800 a MONTH? They would guarantee he would be completely proficient in 3rd grade math by the end of January. Mind you, there is really something to be said for letting him be a little ahead of the game -- that'd completely build his confidence but ... DUDE... that's $3200 ... THIRTY TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS? I just don't know if I can swallow it. BUT, can you IMAGINE finding TWO hours ... TWICE A WEEK for a busy kid to go sit and do math? I just see BURN OUT written on the wall here...

    The Texas education NAZI has this ridiculous test called the TAKS test. It starts in 3rd grade. And the teachers (or at least Josh SAYS this) are already stressing these kids out with statements like, "this is going to be on the TAKS so pay attention" or "you have to know htis because it's on the TAKS and if you don't pass the TAKS, you won't get to go to 4th grade." I mean, they're COMPLETELY stressing these kids out the freakin 3rd and 4th weeks of school? I am SO opposed to this whole NO Child Left Behind B.S. These teachers need to be able to teach a well rounded education... NOT just focus on material that is on a test... I am considering pulling him from public school... because I hate the TAKS test and standardized testing at this level... it's preposterous! Any-who... needless to say, I've got a lot to think about in the next few weeks.

    I'd written Josh's teacher asking her what she suggested -- tutoring or what. She replied that she would start tutoring but not until late November/early December and it would primarily be only what's covered on TAKS. Isn't that so sweet? That was just the straw for me with the whole public school INSTITUTION.

    I grabbed subway on the way home (YUM) and worked on some Scout stuff. Amazing how much you can find to do in the Scouting world. :) I love scouts!

    I had the boys both make Superman a card... and Drew was so adamant about having a present for him too (I didn't buy one... Vegas was enough of a present to himself right?) so he was walking aroudn the house with a huge grocery sack trying to find just the right thing of HIS to give. It honestly, was just the sweetest thing ever. He even took his own balloons -- the kind you pump up and let them go and they make noise and fly everywhere... he wanted me to tie the up for balloons so there would be a party... it was TOO SWEET. He made him a card and colored him a cardinal -- it's honestly the BEST coloring job I've EVER seen him do. I was so proud of him for having that sweet, caring, giving heart. BUT... he kept picking up toys to put in this big paper sack for a present... and then going, "no..." He'd then grab somethign else and Josh would holler out, "That's mine." And drew would pipe back, "No, it's a present." Josh just watched wondering when it would end and then jsut matter of factly looked at me and said in the funniest tone, "pretty soon this whole house is goign to be in one of those little bags at this rate." I laughed so hard... sometimes that kid just says the funniest things.

    Later in the afternoon, we went to baseball practice (Josh's) and then out to Joe's Crab Shack to celebrate Superman turning 38. :) I did FANTASTIC! I ate a minimal breakfast, frozen healthy lunch and then grilled fish and veggies for dinner... no soft drinks, no caffinated tea and no birthday cake. :) I was proud of my willpower! I knew it was there... just had to be found.

    I'm on a mission to be back to 125 in 4 months. :) I've started the work out... I've started eating healthy... I'm going to do it... I have to... I refuse to buy new clothes! ha ha!

    Monday, September 22, 2008

    It's Monday! It's Monday!

    Usually everyone hates Mondays but sometimes, just sometimes, I really look forward to them now for a little bit of a break -- be it just a minute 2 hour window, I'm still grateful for the time I have.

    I dropped Drew off at his Discovery School (preschool science) and came home. My neighbor Kelly came over and we scrapped for about an hour until her delivery man came to bring her some new toys. :) I mean, you know you're becoming "grown up" (and I use that term VERY loosely) when you get excited about major appliances. It's not like they're REALLY going to be anything more than some electrical sucking fingerprint magnet. :) But the thought of having that pristine new gargantuan piece of equipment in your home almost makes you feel all Betty Crockerish inside. :) You know with that new fridge, you'll be able to find everything better, everythign will taste a little fresher, life will be a little better. Hee hee hee... they've got some great marketing plans do they not?!

    I left to pick up the Drewster from his Discovery school and we stopped by his favorite (McDonalds -- UGH) and got him some lunch (I did it because of what was to follow). We were able to get him fed and I knew hew as tired because apparently they don't REALLY nap anymore -- and this boy NEEDS a nap. :( Poor kid. If I even remotely HAD A CLUE how to "home school" him for preschool, I so would... I really really would. But I just feel so completely inept to do so. I would love to be the Discovery School MOM! :) And just provide my children with enriching opportunities left and right but I feel like they'd be in front of the television and I'd be on the computer!

    Which also leads me to another thing -- but I'll finish that in a bit -- :) I'll bet you're just on pins and needles waiting, huh? Ha! Yeah, right! Pshhhh! LOL

    So, he got his Micky D's lunch and was fed...he was really relaxed and then we went to the doctor's office for his 4 year check up. He's in the 75th percentile for height and the 50th percentile for weight... basically long and lean just like they like them. I had no concerns - if I ever DO have concerns... they're basically addressed via e-mail, I don't save them up for a year to ask him. The only thing I'm concerned about is this kid's crazy tongue but hopefully that will be something that is continually worked with but... I do think I see some speech therapy in his future. ;) Since his fingers are singers... and anything with a "v" is automatically a "b." Things like that... most "f's" are also "b's." Oh well, at least I understand him. AND ... well, he had to get his 4 year old shots. I have several friends with children that fall on the autism spectrum and both seriously warned me of getting him his 4 year old shots but... I just think at this point in time, the reward (him staying healthy and not contracting any communicable diseases) is far more important than the risk of any sort of adverse reaction to inoculations. So, he was shot. He wasn't happy... we went home and he took a nap.

    So... later I had to get spiffed up and went to the PTA meeting at school. Our Pack did the flag ceremony. I wish, however, the one that called the color guard did so with a little more enthusiasm. He sounded absolutely bored... and our color guard always salutes... that drives me to drink. The color guard is NOT supposed to salute. They are there to respect and honor the flag and "guard" the "colors"... hence the name -- "COLOR GUARD." I'm going ot make sure my guys ROCK when it's their turn to do it. :) Our Pack also presented to the school some new handmade flag stands on behalf of our Pack. Theirs were SO BAD they were having to TIE the flags to the banisters near the stairs so they didn't fall down. It was a very necessary thing.

    Once the flag ceremony had concluded, I headed home. I'm not much of a PTA girl honestly... the stuff bores me to tears... And the agenda of the Texas PTA... I don't understand how a "parent teacher association" is pushing for legislation on a lot of the topics that seem far out of the scope of reality considering the teachers really don't get to "teach" anymore.

    Any-who, long, full day... Superman flew in from Vegas today... maybe I"ll get to sleep soundly for once this week now. :) It's very hard to sleep soundly when you know you have "rats in the attic" (what it sounds like to me when Drew is upstairs sneaking around... and makes one final descent down the stairs to stumble over his words for having a bonafide REASON for being up at 10:15 p.m. Generally it's something like, "Mommy, I have some ting I want tell you... I wuv you"

    I'll kiss a rat for that. :)

    Sunday, September 21, 2008

    What happens in my car....

    ... stays in my car... unless it's documented on film while in the drive thru at Boston Market. :)

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    Jelly Mom

    I can't even remember whom to give the credit for turning me onto the Jelly Mom newsletter. It's written by Lisa Barker. She is an amazingly talented woman who has the knack for putting a realistic spin on the adventures of motherhood. I encourage EACH of you to check her out! Sign up for her newsletter HERE! You will be so glad you did as you receive the newsletters in your in-box at JUST the right times!


    And yet... even more prayers....

    One of Andy's good friends growing up lost his daughter to a heroic battle with cancer.

    HERE is the story of Krista as in the paper from their town.

    Here is Krista's website: http://www.kristabrewer.com/

    Another article about this great kid.

    Another great article


    This is profound...

    I have a few blogs that I follow... OK... let me rephrase, I have about 70-80 on my igoogle reader but most are just to view as creative inspiration. Others, I actually READ and soak in because... well, because I care...because they're my friends, because we hold some kind of connection that transcends time and space.... one of these blogs... is my friend Felecia's... and THIS post... is the post of the year! I love it... she "gets it" here and I love that now everyone else will see how to get it too.



    Prayers...

    And please pray for my very good friend Dee and her family. Yesterday they received a phone call that Charles' (her husband) brother had a seizure while in the bath tub Friday night and went home to be with the Lord. His name was Andrew Stafford. Please pray for Dee and her family in their travels to be with family... pray for them to always remember that God is in control.

    I'm ready for some good news.... to post prayers of thanksgiving!

    Saturday, September 20, 2008

    Recap from yesterday and today

    Why? Well, honestly because I typed it out in an e-mail to a friend and though, I should just cut/paste and tweak it and voila... there's an instant blog entry! So, I've cut.. now gonna paste and tweak. :)

    I was sent an e-mail asking "how was my day?" And of course, I was like, "Do you want the truth or just a good lie?" Ha ha

    Yesterday we raced home from the airport (ok, that's totally an understatement as to what you can truly do in Friday 4:00 o'clock traffic on Hwy. 114 but my heart was racing so, I say "race"). Once we pulled into the drive, I was completely in "divide and conquer mode." Isn't it funny, however, the offspring just don't seem to understand what that means. You can try to give them the pep talks, "ok guys, we're going to get in the door and get our cleats on and get water and we're out of here and off to practice." Drew starts to play with toys and doddle. He is THE master doddler. So, literally, we were already late for Josh's practice so we had virtually NO TIME to get ready for baseball practice.

    Dropped Josh off 20 minutes late… I have never just DROPPED him off anywhere. It was, strangly not conforting. The complete absence of comfort.. it was downright uncomfortable, in fact. I felt like one of those complete "what if" scenarios was going to happen and no one woulid be there to help him and I'd be at another field with Drew. Ugh. Growing up is so hard for mom's to do.

    So, dropped off Offspring #1 and then raced to Offspring #2's first practice… (he had a blast (no pun intended) and can you believe – I forgot my freakin camera GRRR) The coach is a great guy... he just had them practice hitting off the tee (tea, T, ti.. whateveR!) and running to the honkey base. :) It was a hit...and it was a hoot!

    … that was done so we left to go get Josh and then went to eat pizza. Wow, that diet is really coming along huh? Ha! When I have time to PLAN, my diet goes smooth as silk. Take out my planning and I'm just screwed.

    After pizza was done we ventured home, and I asked Josh to feed the dogs. Since they'd been outside for a while, they were, of course, quite hot. I think eating too fast, running up the stairs and being hot got to one of them and yep...when I walked out of the bathroom after running Drew's bath... waiting for me was a beautiful huge pile of dog puke right there smack dab in the middle of the dad gum floor. UGH! So 30 minutes later (I cleaned the carpet thank you very much)...

    So, you know, how it goes, the kids get tucked into bed. Of course, Drew (his scientific name would be Drewapotomus wontsleepawinkumus) decided to be difficult. He doesn't realize, however, that this ceiling is like paper thin and I hear everyting. I hear every book hit the floor, I hear everything. And last night he wouldn’t go to sleep. He was upstairs and you can hear him rustling around non stop… it’s quite annoying… Imagine KNOWING you are exhausted, but also KNOWING that your child KNOWS how to open doors, unlock locks... would you feel comfortable going to sleep like that? No? Yeah, me either! So, waiting for the undead to sleep is just about as much fun as watching paint dry. Finally, there comes a silent point and I am about as happy as a clam!

    I let the dogs out (it's gotta be around 11:30 now) and I was awoken at 12:15 to the sound of Thor PEEING on the corner of MY BED!!! I was livid (I was told by Andy that he probably has prostate problems -- thanks for the newsflash!!! GRRRRrrrr). I'm thinking he's about to have a boot problem -- that would be MY boot UP HIS REAR-END! I can't tell if he's just INTENTIONALLY being a turd -- because he HAS been known to be that way... but man... I'd JUST GOTTEN TO SLEEP! Anyway, he’s 140 lbs and 9 years old… ya know…may be getting to be “that time”… ?? Needless to say, this did not please me. So, of course, here I go with the stupid freakin carpet cleaner in MY room now ... I got back to bed about 12:45. Then he was up at 4am AGAIN to go to the bathroom. Are you noticing a simple but common theme to my night (lack of sleep?) No? Well, I feel better for having pointed that out to you!

    I finished that up and... aaahh... I finally fell back asleep... only to have Josh at my bedside poking me on the forehead to wake me up at 6:06 am to ASK ME what time he needed to get up. I’m like… GO AWAY and LAY ON THE COUCH… I don’t want you in here… I have an alarm, I’ll get you up in plenty of time. It's like... sleep was not an option last night. How sad.

    My alarm goes off… I get up and shower… Josh asks about taking a shower since the coach had mentioned "throw those boys in the shower tomorrow morning to wake 'em up." I said, you're awake, you don't need a shower to wake up... I know he’s awake because he’s so excited about his first game. )… so …I'm like.. you have 45 minutes before we even need to LEAVE (the game was 8am game)… coach wanted them there at 730.. UGH!

    So I asked Josh to turn on hall lights and open drew’s door so he could wake up on his own… get him some cereal and get food in his belly… I took a shower… I swear I was still about 7 minutes late we got there at 7:37… getting up that dam early. It’s insane!

    They warm up.. had a GREAT game – won 9 to nothing! Josh’s first time at bat was a walk (this is kid pitch – innings are LOOOOOONG)… LOL – 2nd time he had a nice hit and got on first. Josh WAS THE PITCHER the 2nd half (only play for 1 hr 30 mintues) So Andy's dad took them home with him… I ran home and printed out directions and was off to cub scout training from 10:30 to 2:30…then met afterwards with my committee chair and then went to pick up the boys… came home… had Josh throw on his uniform because we just started the annual Cub Scout Fundraiser of popcorn sales today. He’s trying to break the $750 mark so he can throw a pie in my face (isn’t that sweet? Everyone reading should donate to the cause! $25 sends popcorn to the military and gets my son THAT MUCH CLOSER to throwing a pie in my face!) LOL He wants to win a Wii… he’s trying for that… that and Game Stop Gift certificates for being the leader of his den in sales!) so we’re selling popcorn OR people can pay $25 and the company will ship popcorn to the members serving in the military. And we do our cul de sac…and one other street… and I call it a day… head home… get here… figure out we want Chili’s… I call in a curbside to go order…

    While we’re eating… knock at the door.. John’s son is there… they came over as a joke b/c of something I’d said about Felicia treading on my “turf” – having HER scout come down our street while I’m at training! LOL… so they came over as a joke… knock knock on the door – Andrew (their son) is there asking me if I want popcorn… it was so funny! I love this family! They're all great! We hung out and talked to them for about… 30 minutes… Josh came in and let the stupid dogs in the house and his dog got in his chair and ate ½ of his freakin ribs!!! GRRRRrrrr

    I took a shower finally and both the boys took a bath in the tub next to my shower while I was in there… so it was a community bathroom tonight.. Drew didn’t want to go to bed (7:50 but I threatened his life…gave him a flashlight…10 books and he’s CRASHED OUT!!!!) I’m fading fast… but something is wrong with the tv downstairs… and so Josh is watching a movie in my room… I’ll be in bed within 30 minutes…

    How’s that for the true cliff’s notes version of my day? ROFL

    Not enough for ya? Here are some photos to enjoy as well!

    Josh on 3rd ready to head home
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    Almost at the plate
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    He's there!
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    Josh pitching -- very cool play. He threw, the kid hit a pop fly with a full count. Josh caught it - he was OUT!
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    My handsome little Ranger
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    Only a MAN would have picked WHITE PANTS for baseball....
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    Prayers....

    I feel like I'm the prayer warrior lately but I just know that when things are placed upon my heart, I need to share them because silent prayers of one should be duplicated by the tens, hundreds and thousands... I know if I ever had an issue... I want millions of prayer warriors asking God for answers to my prayers!!!

    I feel so fortunate to have my health, my family, my life, my "status" (supermom... able to be with my kids)... and it's little things you take for granted that are slowly slipping out of some people's grasp...

    Please pray for Milo -- he lost his job at American Airlines after something like 22 years. This is an amazing, wonderful leader, person, man. Pray for him to find another job or for the economy to turn around and let his life return to "situation normal."

    Please pray for Tim -- Josh's Godfather -- he, too, just found out he no longer has a job... and with three kiddos and a devoted wife at home... it, too, was a hard pill to swallow. He's already networking and I just pray that he finds something even more rewarding for their family where his conviction to Christ is able to touch someone spreading the love of Christ... one person at a time.

    Please pray for Mark -- As some of you know, Markʼs Dr recently found a nodule on his prostate. A biopsy was performed last week and they learned that Mark has prostate cancer. He and his wife are both trying to absorb this news and deal with the shock and reality of it. They know God is in control and He will certainly get them through this. Pray for their strength while they wait out the time until their appointment to discuss Mark's treatment options. Pray for their strength, peace and unshakeable faith. Pray that the cancer is contained to the prostate and has not spread and for absolute healing. Please pray for wisdom regarding the many decisions that are ahead.

    Pray for our soldiers and my best friend, GP as he is enroute to Afghanistan right now.

    Pray for my brother in law, Robert, as he heads back over to Iraq for yet another tour... for another year.

    Thanks guys! I always feel better knowing that my prayers are in good hands! Because, well, you know, that I've heard that God truly answers KNEE mail. :)


    Friday, September 19, 2008

    I'm a bad mommy!

    My youngest son had his first truly organized sports practice today... AND I FORGOT MY FREAKIN CAMERA!!!

    Drew is playing for the New York Yankees in BLASTBALL! :) It was SO CUTE! They hit the ball off of a tee (is that how you spell T? or is it just a letter? Heck, I just SAY it, I don't SPELL it.) The ball has to clear a certain point and then they run to first base and jump on it and it honks. They were literally, having a BALL doing this.

    His dad didn't get to see it as he went to VEGAS (grrrr) ha ha. So I guess he'll have to wait until the next one to see what all is going on since I didn't have photos to share with him.

    Tomorrow at EIGHT AM is Josh's first game. It should be awesome! He's doing fantastic. He plays for the Rangers. Tonight I had to leave the airport, stop by the house, drop Josh off, take Drew to practice, scoop him up, go back to Josh's practice and wait for it to be over. Drew had to pee and said he couldn't hold it so he learned how to pee behind a tree. What a great mom I am teaching him to do this huh? I swear men have it so easy. Then I took the boys for some pizza. Came home, gave Drew a quick bath, tucked them in and he's made it downstairs about 3 times now... the second time is the only time he "let me" know he was up. He walked in and just kind of tried to look around to find an excuse as to why he wasn't in bed. He him-haw'd around just a bit only to say, "I came down... I just came down..." and he walked up to me with outstretched arms and said, "I love you." I said, "I love you to Mister I'm Supposed To Be In Bed." We had a few little words and I asked him if he'd like me to walk him back upstairs... "no, i do it aww by myself"

    "okay...but who is going to tuck you back in?"

    He leans over like he's going to whisper something in my ear and then taps me on the shoulder and says, "YOU!"

    I'm still hearing faint bangs so I know he's still up to no good...and I can't rest soundly until I know he's asleep. UGH... it's going to be ugly tomorrow... nap time for EVERYONE

    Bar Stool Economics

    A good lesson for our country.

    Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:

    The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.
    The fifth would pay $1.
    The sixth would pay $3.
    The seventh would pay $7.
    The eighth would pay $12.
    The ninth would pay $18.
    The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.

    So, that's what they decided to do. The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are all such good customers, he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20. Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.

    The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free. But what about the other six men - the paying customers? How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?' They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.

    And so:

    The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).
    The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).
    The seventh now paid $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).
    The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).
    The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).
    The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).

    Each of the six was better off than before And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.

    'I only got a dollar out of the $20', declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man,' but he got $10!'

    'Yeah, that's right', exclaimed the fifth man. 'I only saved a dollar, too. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I!' 'That's true!!' shouted the seventh man. 'Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!'

    'Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!'

    The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.

    The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!

    And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

    David R. Kamerschen, Ph.D.
    Professor of Economics, University of Georgia

    .... and I guess, more importantly to discuss is the fact that Mr. OBAMINATION wants to RAISE TAXES ON EVERYONE on just about EVERYTHING.


    Who is better for our economy?

    It’s not as though this couldn’t be foreseen. It was. By the same guy who called for (years before it happened) a surge of troops to turn things around in Iraq.
    John McCain. 25 May 2005, speaking to the Senate:

    Mr. President, this week Fannie Mae’s regulator reported that the company’s quarterly reports of profit growth over the past few years were “illusions deliberately and systematically created” by the company’s senior management, which resulted in a $10.6 billion accounting scandal.

    The Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight’s report goes on to say that Fannie Mae employees deliberately and intentionally manipulated financial reports to hit earnings targets in order to trigger bonuses for senior executives. In the case of Franklin Raines, Fannie Mae’s former chief executive officer, OFHEO’s report shows that over half of Mr. Raines’ compensation for the 6 years through 2003 was directly tied to meeting earnings targets. The report of financial misconduct at Fannie Mae echoes the deeply troubling $5 billion profit restatement at Freddie Mac.

    The OFHEO report also states that Fannie Mae used its political power to lobby Congress in an effort to interfere with the regulator’s examination of the company’s accounting problems. This report comes some weeks after Freddie Mac paid a record $3.8 million fine in a settlement with the Federal Election Commission and restated lobbying disclosure reports from 2004 to 2005. These are entities that have demonstrated over and over again that they are deeply in need of reform.

    For years I have been concerned about the regulatory structure that governs Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac–known as Government-sponsored entities or GSEs–and the sheer magnitude of these companies and the role they play in the housing market. OFHEO’s report this week does nothing to ease these concerns. In fact, the report does quite the contrary. OFHEO’s report solidifies my view that the GSEs need to be reformed without delay.

    I join as a cosponsor of the Federal Housing Enterprise Regulatory Reform Act of 2005, S. 190, to underscore my support for quick passage of GSE regulatory reform legislation. If Congress does not act, American taxpayers will continue to be exposed to the enormous risk that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac pose to the housing market, the overall financial system, and the economy as a whole.

    I urge my colleagues to support swift action on this GSE reform legislation.

    The legislation was blocked by Democrats, with the assistance of a few Republicans.

    James Johnson, former CEO of Fannie Mae and current Obama advisor, has cost us many tens of billions of dollars we can’t afford.

    Franklin Raines, former CEO of Fannie Mae and current Obama advisor, has cost us many tens of billions of dollars we can’t afford.

    Barack Obama: if we can’t afford his advisors, we certainly can’t afford him


    What do you say???

    It was about 10:30 p.m. last night and my cell phone rang. I was sure it was a wrong number because, well, no one ever calls me that late (or if they do, my phone is generally in my car so I never know until the next day.)

    Hello?

    Hey. (The voice sounded vaguely familiar but..?? perhaps I was sleepy.)

    Yes?

    Hey what's going on?

    Who is this?

    Who is THIS?

    I think perhaps you go the wrong number...

    No... this is _______. Who is this?

    YOU called me, do you not know who you called... wait, you said your name was ______. As in ________(first name) ___________ (last name)?

    Yes...

    OH MY GOSH how are you... blah blah blah

    I could tell he'd been drinking (heavily). Honestly, EVERY time he's ever really drank a great deal... he ALWAYS calls me. It's just our connection (ha ha). Seriously, I've known this guy since 7th grade and he's been one of my best friends ever since then.

    I inquired about how he was doing... I knew he was supposed to be in training because he told me about 6 months ago that he was going to be going back overseas.

    The conversation progressed and we spoke of things I'm not at liberty to say as they're confidential and I would never betray his confidence... but, as the conversation grew I realized the true purpose of his call.... he was terrified beyond belief. He was going to have over 400 people under his command going into a hostile combat zone and was asking me, through tears, how he can instruct someone to kill another human being. "How did I get to this?" He's terrified of what if they engage in fire and his people kill someone... and then it winds up all over CNN because someone said they killed someone "innocent" and then he's court-martialed and his career is over... how PATHETIC is it that our own soldiers are having to second guess their own safety and are more willing to take a bullet than have their families disgraced like they're just some complete brainless killing machines? The media machine is a bunch of blood thirsty BASTARDS! He's going to be heading a position that he said no one has come back alive from. How do you think that makes him feel? This is his job, my fellow Americans. Does he want to do it? Of course not. He's doing it because it's his duty.

    He's doing it because he is an American soldier. Though he is comfortable enough to be transparent with me... when the time comes and push comes to shove, he will put on his game face and do his job... tracking the enemy in special ops. He is a father to two beautiful children, a husband to a sweet and caring woman, a brother, a son... and my best friend. He is putting his life on the line because he knows what the pay-off is for a mission so great. But he is scared. He's not a killing machine, nor are any of these other people, they're just doing their jobs so that we, back here at home can feel secure that we're not going to have another 9/11.

    He cried and begged me to pray for him. So, if you've made it this far into this post... I'm asking YOU to pray for him too. Pray for his safety, pray for his command, pray for his family, pray for our enemies, pray for our military, pray for his leadership, pray... pray... pray.

    My heart broke last night on the phone and I all wanted to do was go to wherever he was and hold him forever.

    Generally, my MO for people that are upset are to let them go on... let them have their say and then try to lighten the situation. I was remotely successful in doing that when he repeated, "How did I wind up here? How did I get to this?" I said, "well, you've obviously done such a fantastic job that they knew you were the man for the job ... because you'll get these men and women home safe.... well, that or you really pissed someone off."

    (my tactic worked)

    God bless our soldiers... God bless their families... I love you GP, you're one of the bravest men I know. You will always have a place to express your feelings with me... Godspeed. I swear I'll make good on my promise... come back through DFW on your way home in 12 months... I'll see you soon brother! Hang in there... Git r DUN!


    An Important Health Bulletin

    IMPORTANT HEALTH ADVICE FOR WOMEN.

    Do you have feelings of inadequacy?

    Do you suffer from shyness?

    Do you sometimes wish you were more assertive?

    If you answered yes to any of these questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist about Chardonnay. Chardonnay is the safe, natural way to feel better and more confident about yourself and your actions. Chardonnay can help ease you out of your shyness and let you tell the world that you're ready and willing to do just about anything.

    You will notice the benefits of Chardonnay almost immediately and with a regimen of regular doses you can overcome any obstacles that prevent you from living the life you want to live.

    Shyness and awkwardness will be a thing of the past and you will discover many talents you never knew you had. Stop hiding and start living, with Chardonnay.

    Chardonnay may not be right for everyone. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use Chardonnay. However, women who wouldn't mind nursing or becoming pregnant are encouraged to try it.

    Side effects may include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, incarceration, erotic lustfulness, loss of motor control, loss of clothing, loss of money, loss of virginity, delusions of grandeur, table dancing, headache, dehydration, dry mouth, and a desire to sing Karaoke and play all-night rounds of Strip Poker, Truth Or Dare, and Naked Twister.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may make you think you are whispering when you are not.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may cause you to tell your friends over and over again that you love them.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may cause you to think you can sing.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may lead you to believe that ex-lovers are really dying for you to telephone them at four in the morning.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may make you think you can logically converse with members of the opposite sex without spitting.
    • The consumption of Chardonnay may create the illusion that you are tougher, smarter, faster and better looking than most people.

    Now Just Imagine What You Could Achieve With a Good Dry Red!!!

    Wednesday, September 17, 2008

    Don't Mess with Mother Nature

    Why? You will lose.

    Check out THESE pictures. Just amazing.

    Tuesday, September 16, 2008

    Protect Our Children Bill.... Act NOW

    I received this on an e-mail and feel compelled to pass it along for EVERYONE -- every mother, child, father, aunt, uncle, sister, brother, grandmother, grandfather, son, daughter... EVERYONE take action and contact your politicans to get it passed!

    ===============
    I don't normally tape Oprah, but I did yesterday. Her show was on sexual predators over the internet and how to protect your kids. Well that was the wrong title for the show. It was more about how easily your children can be exposed to predators and how to avoid them. Also on what little is being done to catch them. If you can watch some of its video from her website...than please do. Also I am including a link to contact your local Senators (with a letter you can copy and paste) on the bi-partisan bill to give law enforcement more money, manpower and authority to capture these predators.

    CLICK HERE FOR THE LINK

    Please take the time to email your Senators on this.

    Monday, September 15, 2008

    How can you reason with this?

    On Mondays Drew has Discovery Club which means he is in school from 9-12 and it's a fun day of science and experiments. He loves it BUT he is ravenous when it's time to leave. Literally from the time I enter the room I hear "I'm HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONGRY." Generally it's straight to lunch as soon as I have him in tow.


    Today we decided to head over to Spring Creek BBQ because he wanted "ham" for lunch. We got our food, sat in the booth... and he didn't blink an eye.. he ate like a CHAMP!

    We'd eaten and then he'd crawled under the table to go to the other side of the booth. This is what he does when HE is done so that you become increasingly annoyed and then leave -- giving him HIS way but honestly, he WAS tired -- he WAS worn out -- and by then ... it WAS time to leave. I suggested, like any mother would in my shoes, "lets go home and take a nap." After all, THIS was the only free time I'd get all day.


    He, of course, in his usual stubborn self while being carried to car, with clenched fists while rubbing his eyes whines, "I don't waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaant to take a nap."

    I told him, "you have to take a nap if you want to grow. Your body only grows when you rest." Sounds good doesn't it?

    "I want to play baseball."

    "You can play baseball after you nap." Why I'm trying to REASON with a 4 year old I have no idea. Poor thing...

    So I'm driving home and I turn on his favorite cd -- Lots and Lots of Firetrucks... and he puts his hands over his ears and says very sternly, "I told you to turn the music off! You're hurting my ears."

    I said, "Well, excuse me Napoleon! But we don't ask for ANYTHING in MY car like that." I turned the music up.

    He says, "Pwease turn it off."

    I oblige.

    So we are driving in silence for at good 30 seconds when he mumbles clear as day....

    "I don't WANT TO grow."

    I laughed ALL THE WAY HOME!



    Why did the chicken cross the road?

    Why did the chicken cross the road?

    BARACK OBAMA : The chicken crossed the road because it was time for a change! The chicken wanted change !

    JOHN MCCAIN : My friends, that chicken crossed the road because he recognized the need to engage in cooperation and dialogue with all the chickens on the other side of the road.

    HILLARY CLINTON : When I was First Lady, I personally helped that little chicken to cross the road. This experience makes me uniquely qualified to ensure right from Day One that every chicken in this country gets the chance it deserves to cross the road. But then, this really isn't about me.

    GEORGE W. BUSH : We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road. We just want to know if the chicken is on our side of the road, or not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle ground here.

    DICK CHENEY : Where's my gun?

    COLIN POWELL : Now to the left of the screen, you can clearly see the satellite image of the chicken crossing the road.

    BILL CLINTON : I did not cross the road with that chicken. What is your definition of chicken?

    AL GORE: I invented the chicken.

    JOHN KERRY : Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now, and will remain against it.

    AL SHARPTON : Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens.

    DR. PHIL : The problem we have here is that this chicken won't realize that he must first deal with the problem on this side of the road before it goes after the problem on the other side of the road . What we need to do is help him realize how stupid he's acting by not taking on his current problems before adding new problems.

    OPRAH : Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So instead of having the chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls, which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a car so that he can just drive across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens.

    ANDERSON COOPER, CNN: We have reason to believe there is a chicken, but we have not yet been allowed to have access to the other side of the road.

    NANCY GRACE : That chicken crossed the road because he's guilty ! You can see it in his eyes and the way he walks.

    PAT BUCHANAN : To steal the job of a decent, hard-working American.

    MARTHA STEWART : No one called me to warn me which way that chicken was going. I had a standing order at the Farmer's Market to sell my eggs when the price dropped to a certain level. No little bird gave me any insider information.

    DR SEUSS : Did the chicken cross the road? Did he cross it with a toad? Yes, the chicken crossed the road, but why it crossed I've not been told.

    ERNEST HEMINGWAY : To die in the rain, alone.

    JERRY FALWELL : Because the chicken was gay! Can't you people see the plain truth? That's why they call it the other side. Yes, my friends,that chicken is gay. And if you eat that chicken, you will become gay, too. I say we boycott all chickens until we sort out this abomination that the liberal media white washes with seemingly harmless phrases like "the other side. That chicken should not be crossing the road. It's as plain and as simple as that.

    GRANDPA: In my day we didn't ask why the chicken crossed the road. Somebody told us the chicken crossed the road, and that was good enough.

    BARBARA WALTERS : Isn't that interesting? In a few moments, we will be listening to the chicken tell, for the first time, the heart warming story of how it experienced a serious case of molting, and went on to accomplish its lifelong dream of crossing the road.

    ARISTOTLE : It is the nature of chickens to cross the road.

    JOHN LENNON : Imagine all the chickens in the world crossing roads together, in peace.

    BILL GATES : I have just released eChicken 2008, which will not only cross roads, but will lay eggs, file your important documents, and balance your checkbook. Internet Explorer is an integral part of eChicken 2008. This new platform is much more stable and will never crash or need to be rebooted.

    ALBERT EINSTEIN : Did the chicken really cross the road, or did the road move beneath the chicken?

    COLONEL SANDERS: Did I miss one?

    Sunday, September 14, 2008

    WOW the mojo is flowing!

    I have made one card and 5 12x12 layouts today! :) along with chatting on the boards... doing laundry, taking my kids to their grandmother's, etc. it's been fun and productive! I'll post what I did after I scan it in. :)

    Saturday, September 13, 2008

    MP3 "docking station"?

    Does such a creature exist? I would love to find a "thing" to put my mp3 player (it is NOT an IPOD) so that I can listen to my music wherever I go. :) anyone?

    Friday, September 12, 2008

    The Mosy Scrapper

    Hey guys the Cyber Crop has BEGUN!!! Get your scrappin tails over to The Mosy Scrapper -- we've got challenges, games, chatter, PRIZES! :) Come on down! :) Get ya some!

    http://themosyscrapper.forumakers.com

    Prayers...

    Madison needs your prayers...

    Madison had her 3 year check up yesterday. The Dr. asked mom if she was ever told Madison had a heart murmur. The answer -- "No."

    "Well, she does...but hers has a low pitch which typically indicates a small hole in the heart."

    Because of this they want a cardiologist to oversee Madison and have a full check. She has to see a cardiologist at a children's hospital next week.

    Madison's mom says, "I told myself nothing is different than it was yesterday and no need to worry until they do an echo cardiogram or ultrasound ect. But that's kind of creeping up on me, just a bit. How can you not worry a little? Anyway, please pray for my little Mado J. I will let you know what we find out next week. Until then thanks for lifting her up!"

    So thank you my prayer warriors...