Thursday, July 10, 2008

Spark!


I have been trying to use Wed. as the day I post about something that I have tried and really like. I couldn't wait until next Wed. to share this one with you.
You HAVE to go check it out.

I have found the best website. If you want to lose weight, are currently losing weight, or are just trying to get healthier I have the place for you. It is called SparkPeople.com, the world's largest online health community. Over 1 million people from around the world have joined SparkPeople.com to help them get healthier or lose weight. The folks at SparkPeople.com have been working hard to provide you with premium tools and community features to help you live a healthier life.
(Did I mention that it's 100 percent free?)
http://www.sparkpeople.com/.


Personalized SparkPages: Add pictures, blog posts, friends, site favorites and other information to document your healthy life. Share it with anyone or keep it private, you decide.


Support Teams: Meet other people with similar interests and goals who will offer support & motivation when you need it the most; or create a SparkTeam for your friends and family to join. (You would be amazed at all the pages they have. If you can think of it they probably have it. You can join a team that is in your state or your area. You can join a team that is in your age group or in the amount of weight you want to lose.

Some others I have seen are:

Fat Wives Club
Slightly Skewed and a Little Warped
Crockpot Recipes
Swimming For Cardio
Dave Ramsey Fans
Gastric Bypass
Christian Homeschooler's Healthy Living
The Big Mans Club
Office Workers Unite
Clutter Free Living
Moving Forward Through Grief & Loss
Caregiver Children
Emotional Eaters
A Truckers Wife
Christian (or other religions)
Political
Thyroid Community
Parents With Special Children (special needs)
Military Wives
Scrapbookers
Knitting
Home Remodeling
Bird Watchers
Dog Lovers
Cat Lovers
Rats Rule
Bookworms
Christian Bookworms
Artists
Lampworkers
Photography
Motorcycles & Bikers
5 ft. 3 and Under
Calling All Short People
Tall Ladies
Eating Disorder Group
Fat Fly Chix
Wow! I Need To Lose A Whole Person!
Food Network Fans (this one concerns me a bit wink, wink)
Biggest Loser (tv show)
House Addicts (tv show)
The Office (tv show)
So You Think You Can Dance (tv show)
Moving Forward Through Grief and Loss
Fighting Fibromyalgia
Car Enthusiasts
Growing Up In The 70's, Memory Lane
Lord of the Rings
Weight Watchers
Animal Lovers
Shutterbugs
High Blood Pressure
Cholesterol Support
People With Disabilities
Duran Duran Music Lovers
Richard Simmons Fan club

There are MANY more. As you can see, if you can think of it they probably have it.

Calorie Counter & Meal Plans: Get a personalized meal plan to fit your needs and goals, and track your calories and nutrition intake.

Personalized Exercise Program: We'll design a plan to suit your needs, and provide online exercise demonstrations and workout videos that are easy to follow.

Healthy Recipes : Find thousands of healthy, easy to make recipes. Enter your own recipes to calculate their nutrition information.

Are you ready to lose weight and live a healthier life? Just visit http://www.sparkpeople.com/ to create your free account and get started today.

I started working on losing weight about 2 weeks ago. I found Spark People.com a little over a week ago. I compare it to a weight watchers meeting only better. You can get the motivation, the accountability, ask questions, get opinions, track your food, track your exercise, and do it all every day for free. You can even report your weight and there is a little tracker too. I have seen places like this before but they weren't free. I don't think I have found everything yet. I keep finding more things as I go a long. You don't have to use all the nifty little features like the nutrition tracker, fitness tracker, or other things. (There is also a way to track your water for the day or how many fruits/veggies you are eating.) If you want you can just use it for encouragement and motivation. I have ready many success stories of people that have lost an amazing amount of weight. Their stories are inspiring. When you have a rough day you can talk to another real person dealing with the same things as you are. There are people at every place on their weight loss journey. Some are just starting and haven't lost anything yet. Some have lost a little. Some have lost a LOT! Some have lost it all and are maintaining or are struggling to maintain. We all get frustrated or tired and it helps to have someone else there that can give you that little boost.





Thursday, July 3, 2008

Homeschooling and Co-ops

Image Source
We have been a part (to varying degrees) of a homeschool co-op for several years now. Last year, and this upcoming year will be the most we have participated so far. I am very thankful for our homeschool co-op (in our homeschool support group) and thought this might be a great blog post for some of you to read. This is a great one for homeschooling families.

We have been in 2 co-ops over the years. One when the girls were much younger. It looks to me like co-ops can be very different. However, I do believe most can be a benefit. I will say that I have heard from one Mom that using a co-op during her first year of homeschooling (with little ones) was a bit overwhelming. I did not use a co-op until I had been homeschooling for several years and I think that works out just fine. I really think the MOST important time to use a co-op starts in middle school but especially in high school.
Let me know what you think.
To read it just click here.


Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Cultured Moms Favorite Things-Sleep MD


For some time I have been having trouble sleeping. I am not the sort of person that can go without sleep and still be lovely. ;-) I really NEED sleep. Not an option for me. So while at the store one day looking at some "this will help you sleep" products anther woman was also looking in that area. Well, truthfully I was looking at products to help "others" not be such loud snorers. This woman said to me, you have someone that snores too huh? I sure do. She said here is something for YOU. She pointed out the product above. I went home with 3 products to help me and to help "others". (Trying not to hurt any ones feelings here.) I put them on the counter and said I AM GOING TO GET SOME SLEEP TONIGHT! I was pretty excited and yet kind of skeptical too.

Let me tell you what happened. I popped one of those baby blue pills in my mouth. It was not long that I was feeling REALLY drowsy. Downright tired! (I often have a hard time going to sleep because I don't feel sleepy at night. Of course, the next morning I DO feel sleepy!) I wondered if this would last. It certainly did! I love this product. It is convenient to buy since I can by it at Wal-mart. It was only around $15 and you get 30 night of sleep. It actually works....and that is a big plus. I have taken it many, many times since then with no problems at all. I do not wake up extra drowsy in the morning and I dare say, maybe even a bit more well rested? My handsome hubby has also taken this product. Not long ago he had to to out of town for a week. When he sleeps in a hotel he usually has a hard time sleeping. He was gone for 4 nights and had NO trouble sleeping at all. This is pretty close to a miracle. So, I give Sleep MD a 2 thumbs up. If this is something you could use go get some and give it a try. If you do, please, come back here and leave a comment with your thoughts. I would love to hear what you think of it.

For more information, click here. You can also see what others have to say, their FAQ's here, or the supplement facts. You can find out some places to purchase it by clicking here.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

July 4th Energy Independence Day

Image Source

My sister told me today they are predicting gas prices will go up to $7 a gallon this summer? You have got to be kidding me. Then I got this in my email. If you haven't signed I encourage you to do so.

Congress has heard the message loud and clear, but many Members of Congress are still not listening to the will of the American people. This is why we need your help to declare this July 4th Energy Independence Day!

This week, Congress is on recess for the Fourth of July and will return to Washington, DC on July 7. During their 10-day recess, Members of Congress will be holding townhall meetings, attending parades, and talking with their constituents in their districts.

We encourage you to attend any one of these meetings to ask your Member of Congress if they support the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition. If possible, bring a video camera along to capture their answer. If you're unable to attend these meetings, be sure to either call or write your Congressman's office instead.

Here are a few more steps you can take to make this July 4th Energy Independence Day:

Tell 5 friends about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition


Call your local talk radio show about your Representative's position on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition

Write a letter to the editor about your Representative's position on the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition


You can find a new YouTube video, sample talking points, letter to the editor, and other action-oriented materials to guide you at www.AmericanSolutions.com/EnergyDay.

This list is by no means exhaustive. In addition to getting your Representative on record, we encourage you to create your own activities surrounding Energy Independence Day. Your Fourth of July parties, BBQ's, and neighborhood gatherings would be great opportunities to talk to your friends and family about the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition and ask them to sign it at www.AmericanSolutions.com/DrillNow.

Finally, after Energy Independence Day, email us your stories, photos, or videos to drillnow@americansolutions.com so we can highlight all of your hard work.

With your help, this Independence Day we will declare our energy independence. And we give our elected officials this choice:

Either take action to drill here and drill now for American oil or the American people will take action this fall.

Thanks again for joining the more than 1.2 million Americans of the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" movement.

Sincerely,

Dave Ryan
Executive Director
American Solutions

P.S. During this Fourth of July recess, remember to ask your Member of Congress if they support exploring for more American energy -- and take your video camera if you have one.

Monday, June 30, 2008

Off To The Gym!

Image Source


Off to the gym tonight! (I really just wanted to say that because it makes me feel SO athletic and strong!)

Did you notice how good I look on that treadmill? OK, you don't really believe it is me do you? It's because of the hair right?

Well, I am just so proud of my self that I had to share it with you. I started going BACK to the gym. Yes, I started, then took a break, and now am starting again. I went 3 days last week and plan to go again tonight. I walked for 25 minutes last week and am thinking of going up to 30 minutes tonight. I know what you are thinking. Are you sure you want to add that extra 5 whole minutes. When you have been off the exercise treadmill (so to speak) for a long time you have to get back on carefully. You don't want to strain or sprain anything.

In honor of my new fitness/weight loss goals I have some exercise funnies to share with you. I thought they were pretty good! What do you think???

I have to walk early in the morning,
before my brain figures out what I'm doing..

I joined a health club last year,
spent about 400 bucks.
Haven't lost a pound.
Apparently you have to go there.

The advantage of exercising every day
is so when you die, they'll say,
'Well, she looks good doesn't she.'

Image Source

Friday, June 27, 2008

Pass The Duct Tape


After reading the following I realize I am going to need duct tape to keep my head from exploding (thanks Glenn Beck) or the government may want to use it over our mouths at this point. This is so wrong. Anything in red, I added for emphasis. I am not trying to get on a rant or complain uncontrollably but come on.
This is important!
Gay Rights Trump Religious Liberty

Last week, Americans were subjected to news reports and television stories showing activists celebrating the overturning of California’s marriage laws. This was the result of a single judge declaring the common sense definition of marriage to now be a form of “bigotry” in California.

Now the assault on the legal status of marriage and the family in America is spreading to New York and other states. At first glance, this may not seem to concern you. But you should be concerned if you care that Americans are losing their basic civil rights.

For the first time in our history, America is are faced with a powerful movement that defines its alleged "rights" in terms of the deprivation of the fundamental rights of others. As a result, this movement is depriving other Americans of civil liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, including: freedom of speech, freedom of association, and freedom of religion.

The core thrust of this movement is so obvious that even NPR is now doing stories openly declaring that “gay marriage” means the loss of rights for those disagree. Here are some recent examples taken directly from a recent NPR report:

When Gay Rights And Religious Liberties Clash
National Public Radio (Excerpt below)

Adoption services: Because the Catholic Church in Massachusetts refuses to place children with same-sex couples as required by MA gay marriage law, Catholic Charities has been forced to close its adoption program.

Housing: As a Jewish institution, Yeshiva University in NYC banned same-sex couples from its married dormitory on religious principle. New York's highest court invalidated the schools regulations as a form of unlawful discrimination..

Medical services: A gynecologist in California refused to give a lesbian patient in vitro fertilization treatment on the basis of his religious beliefs. (The doctor referred the patient to another physician.) The doctor has been sued and is likely to lose.

Wedding services: A photographer in New Mexico declined to shoot a same-sex commitment ceremony. The New Mexico Human Rights Commission fined the photographer $6,600.

Wedding facilities: A Methodist association in New Jersey refused to rent its boardwalk pavilion to a lesbian couple for their civil union ceremony. New Jersey has now revoked a portion of the group’s tax exemption after the couple sued.

Most Americans believe that gays and lesbians are free to live as they choose, but they don’t have a right to redefine marriage for our entire society. But we are living in an era when adhering to the common sense definition of marriage – for the sake of kids – is increasingly a punishable offense.

Thank you for your friendship and partnership in our efforts to protect children, families and the civil rights of all Americans.

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Good News & Bad News Today



I woke up to the bad news first. Have you heard that the Supreme Court has decided that the punishment can't be disproportionate to the crime.
What they are talking about is child r*pe (or molestati*n). (Don't want to write out the words in case some crazy/nasty people are searching for that word. Don't want them checking out my blog just on this topic.) They have decided that only the crimes that involve death should be punished by death. This upsets me in so many ways. Apparently, the last time someone was actually put to death for that crime was in the 60's. I doubt that it was going to be used. However, making a ruling against it just ticks me off. The main thing of course is the trauma and life long problems this causes to children. Acting like death is a "cruel and unusual punishment" for this particular crime is so offensive. What about the victim? Wasn't the crime against the child "cruel and unusual punishment"? Of course it was but we are not concerned with the victim here, only the criminal. Ugh! I could go on for hours about this one but I will spare you.

Now for the good news. The Supreme Court (as wise at it is) has made a ruling that it is NOT unconstitutional for American citizens to be able to own guns. Wow! That is pretty big of them isn't it? I guess it took them this long to read the 2nd Amendment where it says......


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.

Did you realize that in Washington DC handguns or rifles WERE outlawed except for residents with permits, mainly police or security guards? I read about it here and saw the following quote.


"Washington Mayor Adrian Fenty said the ruling could put more guns in the hands of young people. "I am personally deeply disappointed and quite frankly outraged by today's decision," he said. "Today's decision flies in the face of laws that have helped decrease gun violence in the District of Columbia."


What? Gun violence has decreased in DC? Come on. I would love to see the actual facts on that. I bet the truth is that the decrease in gun violence goes like this. Here is the scenario. Bad guy with gun enters home of law-abiding citizen (of course, law-abiding citizen does NOT have a gun). When bad guy points gun at law-abiding citizen bad guy is able to get anything and everything he wants, thank you for those jewels, money, bonds, giant screen tv's, etc. Where was the violence? Not a shot was fired. Of course not! Didn't have to shoot! Now I want to see the statistics once Mr. & Mrs. Law-Abiding Citizen are able to protect and defend themselves, their family, and their home. Until the the bad guys realize that there could be a gun pointing right back at them the crime may go up a bit. However, once they get it through their heads (or get a bullet) they will realize they are in just as much danger. It won't be worth it. (They are not the smartest bunch you know-so it could take a while.)

I can't believe the Supreme Court did something good today. Hip-hip-hooray!!

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Cultured Moms Favorite Things -Edu-Track


Time to share one of my favorite things.

I have had Edu-Track Record Keeping System for SEVERAL years! We purchased it at a homeschool convention. I don't think you need to use a lot of it until you have middle schoolers on up but you certainly can if you like. You can learn more about it here.


It is an awesome program. This applies mostly to homeschool families. However, it has something on it for chores and other things that might be useful to other families as well. I personally think every homeschool family should have this program or one like it.


Another one I have heard about many times is Homeschool Tracker. I suspect both programs are good but of course I only have experience with Edu-Track. I would advise that you have one of them. They are very useful. I can track all the school things the children do, it helps enter grades and keep track of them, tracks attendance, tracks hours, plans lessons, prints report cards, it tracks book logs, & field trips. You can print out awards, certificates, & diplomas. It has an electronic filing cabinet for you to store information in. You can make and print out chore charts (with or without pictures) and much, much, more. My favorite thing about it is that in the end it will be easy to print out a transcript for my girls. I am able to print one out now just with what my oldest has done so far.

Here is something exciting. While looking around their website I discovered you can purchase lesson plans from them for the curriculum you are using. For example, now that my oldest daughter has finished Apologia Biology I found lesson plans for it. It looks really neat. You can check that out here. The list is pretty big. I may be using this for my younger daughter.

Here is an area where the two programs are being discussed. I have only used the one program but I know many that have used the other one. The other one has a free version and then you can also upgrade for a fee. I think the free version has a lot though. I suspect many Moms will want to upgrade at some point.

In case you are interested in Home School Tracker, click here.

Friday, June 20, 2008

Don't You Love Yourself Enough?



I was so glad to see the post below. It is exactly how I feel. I don't think Americans are short on "loving ourselves".


People often say this person or that person doesn't love themselves enough to stop being a drug addict, be anorexic, be drunk, be promiscuous, etc. It doesn't really make sense if you think about it a bit more. It is because we love ourselves and our own pleasure TOO MUCH. We don't do drugs, over eat, drink too much, be anorexic, because we don't love ourselves. It always start with making ourselves feel or look better (to ourselves or others). People don't become alcoholics or drug addicts because they don't love themselves enough. They drink (or do drugs) to make them selves feel better. We want to make ourselves feel better because we already DO love ourselves. We hear, you need to love your self more. This sounds a whole lot like "you have to look our for number 1, (or take care of yourself) nobody else will".


Is this Biblical at all?


Nope......

1. There is no command in Scripture to ‘love ourselves.’

- This scripture is not giving a command to ‘love thyself’ but could be translated ‘AS (you are loving) yourself.’

Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Matt 19:19

- The problem is we love ourselves TOO much.

2. The law was summed up in 2 commandments not 3 (which would be ‘love thyself‘).

Master, which is the great commandment in the law?
Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Matt 22:36-40

3. We are commanded to DENY SELF, putting it to DEATH on the cross.

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. Matt 16:24-25


This article was found here.

I say it is time for Christians to start loving God more than themselves/their pleasure and to start loving our neighbors. Time to stop putting ourselves first (loving ourselves) and consider others.


God is so good though because putting others ahead of ourselves feels good too! What about you? Have you seen this in your life also? Please, leave a comment and let us know.

Now, if you will excuse me, I need to go see what my neighbor needs! :-)


Thursday, June 19, 2008

Lies Homeschoolers Believe


This is a great post on another blog I just found. You can go to Heart of the Matter Online to see it and a lot of other interesting posts.


They have handed over that blog temporarily, to their men and calling it "Dad Week". Love that idea as Dads have a lot of wonderful things to share too. The men have taken over and are writing some excellent posts! You really should check it out if you are a man, a dad, and especially a homeschool dad. I think all men would benefit though.


I have seen the comments on this book and now I think I need to get it. If you have beaten me to it, leave us a comment. Here it is.....

There are days where even before the school day has begun, I ask the QUESTION. You know the one. The question I venture to guess I ask weekly and some weeks, daily;

"Am I doing a good job homeschooling my children?" DEEP SIGH~

Todd mentions "those" homeschoolers, the ones who appear to be perfectly composed and peaceful. I have seen enough know that images such as those are unrealistic, but I still find myself doubting and questioning. I know the TRUTH, but I often fall victim to the LIES.

I know that I often have to fight to not "believe the lies." I know that lies in any form are destructive, but I have to tell you, sometimes I catch myself believing them. I spin my wheels for ways to DO MORE, BE MORE, SPIN THE WHEELS FASTER. It's a good thing to always be learning and looking for ways to make our homeschool "better for us," but it's when I do these things for the wrong reasons that I begin to doubt. For each of us the "lies" we believe are different, but they are lies nonetheless. I find myself falling for those lies that attack the things that I struggle with as a woman, despite our choice to homeschool.

I have always been an "over achiever." I blame it on my "first born status," but when the enemy wants to attack me, he'll go straight there. I imagine it's the same seductive voice that Eve heard in the garden. It's NEVER conspicuous, it's sneaky and subtle, but if I am not constantly aware, I'll find myself falling for it EVERY TIME.

" Come on Lori, you can do better; your kids are not getting all they need; you really don't think YOU can do this through high school, do you?" Before I even realize it, I find myself BELIEVING THE LIES that have subtly been implanted into my subconscious. I stand as Eve did, dripping with fruit juice, wondering HOW I fell for it again. And after a "bad day" I'll tell you there is JUICE everywhere.

That is how it was JUST the other day, Monday I believe. "Tough day?" my better half inquired....I could feel it, my eyes began to well up, and on came the faucets. "I just don't know, are they learning, doing, being ENOUGH?" He looked at me, square in the eye and said, "yes, you know they are, they are BECOMING the people that God wants them to be. There are going to be BAD days at work." Deep Sigh! So I wipe those tears and begin again.

I BELIEVE in homeschooling. I BELIEVE that God called me into this 4 years ago, I BELIEVE in it with all my heart. I BELIEVE it is the best situation for our family...I BELIEVE these things and I'll tell you I still get sucked into the lies at times. I DO.

After reading the rest of this you may want to read this book also. The whole post is here.

Wednesday, June 18, 2008

Cultured Moms Favorite Things- Money Exchange


I have found many things that really are great products. Often, I wish I could tell my friends and family about them. They don't always come up in conversation so I thought posting them here would be fun. I have thought of several things that I would like to share. Feel free to comment and share some of YOUR favorite things, deals, or helpful tips.
Love this and so should you! Do you know anything about Paypal? Well, this is just like it but free. Looks like Paypal has some competition. If you are interested in learning more click here. If you decide you want to sign up be sure to click on the link to the right of my page....scroll down just a bit. It is free to sign up and free to send money.

Speaking of money things.
I did this one also. I signed up for the HSBC savings account. The interest on this savings account is 3.50% until Aug. 15th. I signed up for this BEFORE this promotion. I have it set up to take money out of my bank account each week. I love it! I don't even think about it. While I am not thinking about it money is taken out of my banking account, added to my HSBC savings account, and has the best interest you can get. There is NO minimum deposit and no fees.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Father's Day


Just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Father's Day! Hope you had a great day Dads.

Saturday, June 14, 2008

Drill Now!

To get the bumper sticker click here.
I was so excited to see this petition on my local talk radio station.
Below are some interesting facts from their web site. I really thought they were excellent points. I have been so frustrated about this lately and wished there was SOMETHING I could do. Needless to say, I signed the petition and hope many others will also.

Click here to sign.

Currently, 78% of Americans find our dependence on foreign oil to be threatening to our national security and economic prosperity, by making us vulnerable to dangerous dictatorships.

Building more oil refineries to lower the cost of gas and reduce our dependence on foreign oil is a solution found favorable by 77% of Americans.

Drilling for oil off of America’s costs is a solution found favorable by 73% of Americans, provided that proper precautions are taken to protect the environment.

It is time for an honest debate about drilling and producing in places like Alaska, our national forests, and off the coast of scenic areas. Scientists of impeccable background should help set the standards for sustaining the environment in sensitive areas, and any company entering the areas should be bonded to meet those standards.

The public should be informed about new methods of production that can meet the environmental standards, and any development should be only with those new methods.

A percentage of the revenues from resources generated in environmentally sensitive areas should be dedicated to environmental activities including biodiversity sustainment, land acquisition, and environmental cleanups in places where there are no private resources that can be used to clean up past problems.


If the above is not enough to convince you then see what Chuck Norris has to say, below.



And here is one more, click here.

Friday, June 13, 2008

They Are Still Building Outhouses?

Image & Story Source
Who knew they were still building outhouses? I don't know about you, but I assumed it was most certainly a thing of the past. Apparently, I was wrong.

I thought this was a very interesting story.


BATAVIA, Ohio — An ailing retired farmer who refused to give up his outhouse after authorities declared it to be a public nuisance finally got a new one.

Elbert "Lew" Preston, 79, stood his ground long enough for a nonprofit group to come to his aid and build him a sturdy new outhouse with a waste tank underneath.

"There she is," Preston said as he showed off the new outbuilding. "She's a lifesaver."

The wooden outhouse, with the traditional crescent moon on its door, replaces a 1960s-built version that had run afoul of public health officials in Clermont County, east of Cincinnati. While the old one was over a hole in the ground, this one sits atop a concrete base and a 1,000-gallon tank.

"It's too nice and complicated to be an outhouse," Preston said. "I call it a privy."

Elbert "Lew" Preston, 79, stood his ground long enough for a nonprofit group to come to his aid and build him a sturdy new outhouse with a waste tank underneath.

"There she is," Preston said as he showed off the new outbuilding. "She's a lifesaver."

The wooden outhouse, with the traditional crescent moon on its door, replaces a 1960s-built version that had run afoul of public health officials in Clermont County, east of Cincinnati. While the old one was over a hole in the ground, this one sits atop a concrete base and a 1,000-gallon tank.

"It's too nice and complicated to be an outhouse," Preston said. "I call it a privy."

Preston, a former trustee for Washington Township, challenged the board of health for months before seeking help from People Working Cooperatively, a nonprofit founded in 1975 that has done thousands of projects for low-income, elderly and disabled residents in southern Ohio and northern Kentucky. Past jobs have included replacing roofs and building wheelchair ramps.

This was its first outhouse project.

"That old outhouse wasn't up to code," said Steve Green, project manager for the Cincinnati-based group. A message was left Monday for Clermont County's board of health.

Preston lives near a busy shopping area and has 175 acres of potentially lucrative real estate, but didn't want to go to the expense and complications of installing a septic system. He said he can't afford repairs on his home.

"It's hard to believe someone lives that close to all those stores and still uses an outhouse," said Dave Castellini, an engineer for the city of Cincinnati who was part of a five-man volunteer team that built the new privy in one day.

Preston, who is slowed by diabetes and has colon problems and pacemaker, said he never saw the need to replace the old outhouse — which once was picked up and carried into his garden by a tornado without major damage.

"I moved it back and it was as good as new," he said. "I figured it would last me for the rest of my days."

He's certain this one will. He said the tank must be pumped out every two years, and he doubts he'll live long enough to reach that point.

Anyway, he's used an outside toilet since settling in Washington Township 40 years ago and likes the privacy of a privy.

"When you're in a house, sounds carry," Preston said. "Everybody knows your business."






What Bible Story?


Here is a fun thought/question for the day.

What Bible story would you most want to experience?

Thursday, June 12, 2008

"Porter House"

Image Source
If you were interested in the post from yesterday about mineral makeup be sure to scroll down to it again. I have added something to the bottom of that post.

I heard this story on Glenn Beck a while ago about a man named Michael La Monaco. Had to share it. I want to go to "Porter House" after hearing the following story. Of course, if my whole family goes we may each get an order of fries since they are only $9. Well, it is New York after all. You can check out the menu here.
Please, leave a comment today.

.....But I'm going to tell you who this guy is because if you're not from New York, you don't know who he is. He is known as one of the best restaurateurs in New York City. It was under his guidance that the city had one of its best and most profitable restaurants. It was Windows on the World.

Michael was at Windows on the World at the top floor of the World Trade Center on September 11th. They had to come in early. He called his whole staff in early because they had, believe it or not, they were serving a group of insurance risk management assessors. And there they were sitting on the top of the World Trade Center and they had gotten in early to prepare them breakfast. They started eating, I believe, at 9:00. So everybody was coming in. And Michael looked down at his watch and it was about 8:35. And he looks down at his watch and he had a 1:00 appointment to get his glasses checked down in the mall in the basement of the World Trade Center and he looked at his chef and he said, are we okay, is everything -- I think we're fine, right? Do you need me? And they said, no, we're good, we got it.

And he said, I'm just going to run downstairs for a couple of minutes; I'm going to see if I can get my eyeglasses adjusted now where I don't have to do it because we have another lunch thing happening and I'll do the lunch, I'll take the lunch. The guy said great. So Michael runs to the elevator, takes the elevator, gets to the basement of the World Trade Center, September 11th, now about 8:38. Walks into the Lens Crafters. He says, can you squeeze me in? Says Michael, absolutely, hang on just a sec. He's standing there for a few minutes.

All of a sudden the building shakes and he looks at the guy at Lens Crafters and said what the heck is that? And they said I don't know. The lights start to flicker a little bit. The guy says, you know what, the alarms have gone off. And they thought it had just been a construction accident or something like that and they're like, oh, jeez, not again. A couple of weeks before there had been a construction accident. An acetylene torch had blown up, killed a guy and they thought that's what happened again, a construction accident. The alarms went off. A voice said evacuate the building. A guy from Lens Crafters and Michael said, you know what, can we just take care of this real quick? Said absolutely, sit down in the chair.

Finally police come in and say get out of here, they're turning off all of the lights. Michael gets up above ground. He looks down at his cell phone, doesn't know what's happened yet. Thinks it's a construction accident. Looks at his cell phone, can't get cell service. Phones are jammed. Decides, I've got to call my wife because she knows and she's going to see it, another accident at the World Trade Center. He's freaking out. So he goes to a pay phone, he finds it several blocks away. He told me, Glenn, you have no idea what it's like to find a pay phone in this city now. He finds the pay phone across the street from the New York Stock Exchange building. He calls up his wife. She doesn't answer. He leaves a message: Honey, I'm outside. I'm across the street from the New York Stock Exchange, problem at the World Trade Center, I'm going back to work, they are good evacuating the building, I'm going to go back and try to get everybody out.

He starts walking back and he knows where the evacuation route is. He knows which door his staff will be coming out of eventually. He knows they are up on 106 and 107, it's going to take them forever to get downstairs. So he's making his way in that direction when he hears the second plane whiz by. That's when he realized there was real trouble.

Michael never made it back to the exit door of the World Trade Center. The building collapsed. Everybody he knew, his business, all of his friends, his clients. He had a packed restaurant of risk assessment, he had a convention of risk assessment managers sitting in his restaurant when the buildings came down.

A lot of people might move from New York City. A lot of people might build their restaurant on the ground floor from thereon out. A lot of people might give up. Mike didn't. He started over again. And he built his restaurant in the only other new twin towers in New York City. In fact, the towers that they were afraid Rudy Giuliani said might not be finished being built because of 9/11. On 9/11 the twin towers on Central Park weren't finished yet. When they were, Michael decided to put his restaurant there, Porter House. And he started over. In the new twin towers in New York. Another landmark for Michael La Monaco.

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Cultured Moms Favorite Things-Mineral Makeup

Image Source
I have found many things that really are great products. Often, I wish I could tell my friends and family about them. They don't always come up in conversation so I thought posting them here would be fun. I have thought of several things that I would like to share.

Today I want to share about a great product for women!

( Although these things work for me I do realize it is possible they won't work for everyone. I am going to share anyway and hope that it will help you as well.)

#1 on my list right now is my new make-up/foundation. It took me a while but I have finally jumped on the Mineral Foundation band wagon. I have been using Revlon's for a while and have been very happy with it. However, I started doing some research and found a mineral foundation product that has only 4 ingredients AND it is affordable! Who knew? I remember watching those Bare Escentuals Mineral makeup commercials many years ago and wishing I could afford it. No way, wasn't going to happen. When I did my research I discovered people are comparing my new Everyday Minerals make up to Bare Escentuals Makeup...only cheaper.


What is really neat is that you can get a sample kit. It lets YOU choose 3 foundations to try as well as 2 other products. They are small samples but I have been using mine for SEVERAL days now. It says they last 3-6 days but I think it is longer. You can chose matte, semi-matte, intensive and original-glo. I think this is especially good for people with oily or combination skin. However, I believe this would work well for all skin types. I feel like my skin looks so much better. I purchased a concealer but the makeup is so good I don't always need it. I have done little experiments on myself. I put the foundation on half my face (without the concealer) just to compare. It was very obvious what side had make up. It was also very obvious my skin looked great! If I had the nerve I would show you the results. Hmmm, will have to think about that.

I discovered that there is even a Mineral Makeup Blog. Imagine that, an entire blog devoted to mineral makeup? That is an indication that a lot of people are really happy with mineral makeup. I enjoyed the post entitled Because of Mineral Makeup I.... and I found several tips on the Best of

While doing a bit of research regarding mineral make-up I found this excellent idea.

So as you can tell I am sold on mineral makeup and totally delighted with Everyday Minerals! if you decide to try it be sure to come back and leave a comment.
PS. I am adding to this post because I found something else. After hearing about Joppa from a faithful viewer of my blog (hey, why aren't the rest of you posting comments?) and doing some research I have to mention them. From the reviews that I have read it sounds like a really good product. I ordered THEIR sample/starter kit.
You get 6 things for 1 penny (and shipping of course).
2 - Foundations (Your Choice)
1 - Finishing Silk (Your Choice)
2 - Blush/Bronzers (Your Choice)
1 - Concealer (Your Choice)
It says it is for a limited time only.
You can also add other samples for .75 each. I ordered the kit above and 3 eye shadows. My total was 6.86. If the samples are like what I got from Everyday Minerals they will last a while. The eyeshadow looks like it will last a REALLY long time.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

He May Not Be An Honest Broker?

(Although this photo may look scary do not worry. The Polar Bears are NOT endangered. There are more of them now than there used to be!)

Ahh, more interesting, informative, and entertaining comments from my favorite talk show host, Glenn Beck. If you have never listened to him on the radio or seen him on TV you must give him a try. Even if at first you don't think you like him..hang in there. More than likely you will change your mind. Also, realize he is pretty sarcastic so you have to be careful how you interpret his comments.

On with the post....

Al Gore has been parading around the world (in his carbon guzzling private jet) telling the horrors of not acting on global warming.

Turns out he may not be an honest broker on the issue (gasp--get right on out of here!).

What motivation would Mr. Gore have?

Money.

Turns out he has huge stakes in companies that are the largest owners of carbon credits.

Yep, Gore stands to make a bajillion gazillion dollars if this cap and trade stuff goes through.

But he just wants to save the environment! Riiiiight.

And he invented the internet, too.



Too read more go to Glennbeck.com

Also, here is an interesting video from the Glenn Beck TV show regarding that precious cap & trade stuff.


Watch: Inhofe Talks About the Devastating Impacts of the Climate Tax Bill on American Families and Workers with Glenn Beck


Has common sense moved out of this country or what???


(I love Inhofe by the way. I also think he sounds a lot like my Uncle Loyd! Of course, I love my Uncle so Inhofe is awesome! )

I want to keep an eye on this web site. I am putting the US Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works in my links on the right side of the page.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Amazing Grace


God has really been showing me HIS Amazing Grace in the last several months. I just saw this video and had to share it. It really moved me and reminded me once again it isn't about us or what we have done. It is ALL about HIM. How have you seen HIS amazing grace in your life?



What is your cardboard testimony?

This reminds me of this song. You have to listen to it and then.... imagine.


Friday, June 6, 2008

What's Wrong With Being A Nice Guy?


I thought this was a very interesting article. My husband has often commented on the "Oprah-ization" of America. I think that could have been added to this article. What do you think?

In an age of suicide bombers, contaminated mail, road rage and rampant rudeness, it seems the last thing we should worry about is an epidemic of overniceness.

But while America slumbers, says Federal Way therapist Robert Glover, an alarming number of men -- maybe 1 in 4 -- are morphing into wimps who live to please and end up pleasing no one.
"I think since World War II, Nice Guys have just proliferated
," says Glover, 46, whose focus on "Nice Guy Syndrome" has spawned a best-selling e-book, a growing caseload and a global online community of "recovering Nice Guys."

"Now I'm seeing second- and third-generation Nice Guys coming along," says Glover, who acknowledges he has no hard data beyond clinical observation of a trait he has sought treatment for himself.

His concern is not with generic niceness but a specific constellation of traits such as passivity, conflict avoidance and emotional caretaking that in the past were more commonly associated with women.

Response to Glover's weekly "Nice Guy therapy groups" is so strong, he's about to launch a fourth concurrent group at his Center for Healing and Recovery. Also in the works is an intensive summer workshop he hopes to turn into a global series of events.

But his largest audience is at nomoremrniceguy.com, where he runs an online support group of about 100 members, fields e-mails from around the world and markets his book, "No More Mr. Nice Guy!"

With business so good, Glover theorizes -- debatably-- that he has hit upon a problem for our times. Wading further into roiling waters, he blames Nice-Guyism on an array of 20th-century social change.

His list of causes responsible for creating Nice Guys -- inclusive enough to rile nearly every interest -- includes absent fathers, the anti-war movement of the Vietnam era, the sexual revolution, an educational system that he claims is "dominated by women" and "women's liberation and feminism."

The end result, he argues, is that a lot of male baby boomers and Gen-Xers grew up adopting "a female perspective on masculinity."

For the rest of this article click here.
Care to comment?

Thursday, June 5, 2008

Why No Comment My Dears?


Oh my dear readers, we're having that talk again. I put my post up and told you I would comment the next day (after you). What happened?

You are coming over to my little corner of the internet each day (amazing!) but why no comment my dears? It's like I'm in high-school and no-one will sign my year book. I am so sad today.

So the moral of this post, is to PLEASE leave me a comment!

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

The Answer Is...


Above is a tombstone I think my oldest is considering. I am not the only one that is sad she is growing up. So is she! She is a bit nervous about life after high school, college, etc.
Say a prayer for her please.

The question yesterday was this.


"Besides your name and pertinent dates, what would you want written on your tombstone? "


You were supposed to comment. Did you?
If not, leave a comment below. I promised you my answer.

My answer is:
She lived well, laughed often, and loved much


I love that saying!

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Thought For Today


Besides your name and pertinent dates, what would you want written on your tombstone?

To lighten the mood here, I have included some funny (but fake) tombstones. Everyone comment with your answer and tomorrow I will add my answer.
You can click here and make up your own.

For more interesting/entertaining (and real) tombstones click here.


(I will not be right back after this message.)

Monday, June 2, 2008

Motherhood Too Hard?

Proud Mommy Comments
Proud Mommy Comments



I read the following story a few days ago.....

When we were going around the world we stopped one day at Thursday Island, and there I heard a sorrowful tale. There is much leprosy on the other side of the world, especially in the tropics. One day, not far from Thursday Island, it was found that a little boy and girl belonging to a good home were lepers. The laws are very strict, and while the wealth of the father of the children was great, it was decided that the family should live alone on another island. The mother stole away with the children and was lost in Sidney for two years, until, strange to say, her children were admitted to the schools. Then the law found them again and they were taken back to the vicinity of Thursday Island, and the law began its operation. The children were separated from the family and sent to the leper island. But how did they become lepers? How? The mother, with her love of social position, thought the cares of motherhood too heavy, so she had a South Sea Island woman to care for her children, and she was leprous.

This was the story, and when I heard it and saw what a harvest had come to that woman for the seeds she had sown, I could not withhold my tears. It is hard to sin when sin hurts yourself and tosses you on your bed so that you cannot sleep, and you say: Will the morning never come? But it is harder still to sin and to hurt one's wife and children, or other dear ones. Be not deceived. God is not mocked. For whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.

The man that spoke the above lived from 1859-1918. His name was Wilbur Chapman. He was an American evangelist, revivalist and pastor. He wrote the words to the hymns One Day, Jesus! What A Friend for Sinners (Our Great Saviour) and 'Tis Jesus.

I am surprised at how much of this sermon applies to today. I have never been able to put my finger on it but this explains it perfectly. I see so many woman today that think the cares of motherhood are too heavy. Other things are more important to them. Usually, it is money but it can also be time, activities, social status, or other people. It breaks my heart to see the mother that misses out on all the blessings her children have to offer. They miss out on all the love that comes so naturally from a child to it's mother.

Of course, the child misses out on so much as well. What life experiences can Mother teach her children? What lessons has Mother learned that she can spare her children from? How will they know? Who will teach them these things? Who will teach them about giving unselfishly to others? Who will teach them manners and what is appropriate? Who will teach them that it truly is more blessed to give than to receive? Who will teach them right from wrong? Who will teach them why we do the things we do or why we shouldn't do the things we do? Who will take the time? Who cares about your children more than you do? There isn't anyone on this planet that cares more about your children than you, dear Mother. You are it. It you don't have the time or the concern no one else will. Your children rely on you. They count on you and trust in you. Even when we, as Mothers, do not deserve it they are still loving us and looking up to us.


In our society it is a terrible cycle. The burden of motherhood is too heavy to many. The mother is too busy with church activities, or is busy with social activities, is just too busy. She wants her social life, her job, or something else more than she desires to be a good mother. However, when she is with the child she feels guilty. She often withholds affection (saving her affections for other things or other people) and lavishes things upon the child (toys, clothes, gifts, candy, etc.) because of her guilt. Later, as the child grows she has not spent the time to teach and train the child. The child then becomes difficult, rebellious, or worse. The child often becomes resentful towards the mother and demanding. Often, the child becomes what the parent has created in selfishness, materialism, and total rebellion. Of course, the child is selfish and materialistic. Mother taught them that loves is shown through things. When you feel unhappy here is a new toy, some candy, or a new outfit. Of course, the child is rebellious. As you were busy you felt too much guilt to discipline when you were around the child. How can you discipline and cause any sadness in the life of your child when you have given nothing else? You haven't given love, affection, or time and now you are going to give discipline? As the love, affection, and time go so will the discipline.
Then the mother does not like the child. Sadly, she is the one that created the child the way it is. I hate seeing this but I am seeing it more and more.
There is no respect and honor given to mothers in a lot of cases. Mothers are often seen as "only mothers". Without a career and/or social standing being a mother is not seen as enough. How sad for the children. How sad for the Mother.
Being a Mother is not just giving birth. It is a life time commitment. With such a long commitment comes life long rewards though.
The generation I grew up in was the generation where divorce was starting to happen a lot more often. Once the parents were divorced Mother had to go to work full time. That started the generation of latch-key kids. This was the beginning of the generation of kids that came home to empty houses and often left for school without a hug or kiss from Mom. Breakfast from Mom? Who had time for that? I guess these girls grew up thinking that was normal. It is no big deal to not have Mom at home, right? Now those girls are Mothers. It seems that most homes are empty when the children come home or they are with babysitters all day or in school. At the end of the day Mother is tired. The sacrifice is too great. Mother just wants to rest and not deal with an unruly child.
When does Mother love, nurture, teach, and train her little darlings?

Dear Mothers listen to me. Motherhood is not too hard. Giving of yourself to your children and your family is not a burden too difficult. Yes, you give and you can grow weary. Like all other things in life that kind of giving is really worth it though. You can't give more than you will get. No other creature on earth will love and adore you unconditionally. Eventually, they will see your faults but they will also see your love. Don't let someone else raise your children. Don't lose your very own children to this world. Give them them the time and the love they need.
When you die you can't take your social status or activities with you.
You can take your children with you.
The cares of motherhood are NOT too hard.
Being a mother is an honor.
Being a mother changes lives.
Being a GOOD mother changes lives in a positive way.


Proverbs 31
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed;
Her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “ Many daughters have done well,
But you excel them all.”
30 Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,
But a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands,
And let her own works praise her in the gates.


To read the entire sermon, above, click here.



Friday, May 30, 2008

Born That Way?



Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7,8

Don't believe it when they say "they are born that way". That would make God an unjust God. He is not. That would mean HE punishes for something he has created. HE did not create sin and did not create homosexuality. As we have been told, The TRUTH will set you free. Check out this article below.

The debate over homosexual "marriage" often becomes focused on whether homosexuality is a learned behavior or a genetic trait. Many homosexual activists insist that "science" has shown that homosexuality is inborn, cannot be changed, and that therefore they should have the "right to marry" each other.

Beginning in the early 1990s, activists began arguing that scientific research has proven that homosexuality has a genetic or hormonal cause. A handful of studies, none of them replicated and all exposed as methodologically unsound or misrepresented, have linked sexual orientation to everything from differences in portions of the brain,1,2 to genes,3 finger length,4 inner ear differences,5 eye-blinking,6 and "neuro-hormonal differentiation."7

Meanwhile, Columbia University Professor of Psychiatry Dr. Robert Spitzer, who was instrumental in removing homosexuality in 1973 from the American Psychiatric Association's list of mental disorders, wrote a study published in the October 2003 Archives of Sexual Behavior. He contended that people can change their "sexual orientation" from homosexual to heterosexual.8 Spitzer interviewed more than 200 people, most of whom claimed that through reparative therapy counseling, their desires for same-sex partners either diminished significantly or they changed over to heterosexual orientation. Although still a proponent of homosexual activism, Spitzer has been attacked unmercifully by former admirers for this breach of the ideology that people are "born gay and can't change." Immutability is a central tenet of demands for "gay rights" and "gay marriage."

Because no single study can be regarded as definitive, more research on people who have overcome homosexuality needs to be done. But a considerable body of previous literature about change from homosexuality to heterosexuality has been compiled, and the sheer number of exceptions to the "born gay" theory should be a warning to researchers and media to proceed with caution before declaring that science has "proved" that homosexuality is genetic.9 .......


The Twins Study

In 1991, J. Michael Bailey and Richard C. Pillard published a study that examined identical and fraternal twin brothers and adopted brothers in an effort to establish a genetic link to homosexuality. Fifty-two percent of the identical twins were reportedly homosexual, while only 22 percent of fraternal twins fell into the same category. But since identical twins have identical genetic material, the fact that nearly half of the identical twins were heterosexual effectively refutes the idea that homosexuality has a genetic basis.35

"This finding alone argues for the enormous importance of nongenetic factors influencing homosexuality," writes Dr. Jeffrey Satinover, "because … in order for something to be genetically determined, as opposed to merely influenced, the genetic heritability would need to approach 100 percent." Satinover, a psychiatrist, notes that "identical twins reared together share more significant environmental influences than nonidentical twins reared together," and that narcissism, a key component of homosexuality, is more likely among identical twins who "grow up with mirror images of themselves."37 (Italics in original.)

In his analysis of the medical evidence purportedly supporting a biological cause of homosexuality, Dr. Byne noted other twin studies:

Without knowing what developmental experiences contribute to sexual orientation the effects of common genes and common environments are difficult to disentangle. Resolving this issue requires studies of twins raised apart.38

Other physicians have also criticized the study for overvaluing the genetic influence.39

Dr. Byne's arguments might lead some activists to label him a "homophobe." He is, in reality, quite the contrary. Byne readily advocates societal acceptance of homosexuality and "gay rights," but nevertheless concludes, "Most of the links in the chain of reasoning from biology to social policy [regarding homosexuality], do not hold up under scrutiny."40

Bailey conducted another study in 1999, published in the March 2000 issue of the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, which actually showed less possible genetic influence on homosexuality than the first twins study. He sent a questionnaire to the entire Australian Twin Registry. Only three pairs of identical male twins were both homosexual out of a total of 27 in which at least one was homosexual. Of the 16 fraternal male twins, none of the pairs was both homosexual. Bailey found similar results for lesbians.41

Finish the article here.

Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh shall from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit shall from the Spirit reap eternal life. Galatians 6:7,8

Confessions of a Car Salesman

Image source
This was a VERY interesting read. I highly recommend it. Ever wonder about car salesmen? This gives you a fascinating peek into their world. I have a new respect for them but also a new way of thinking about buying a car. Check out this article from Edmunds.com

Thursday, May 29, 2008

The Easy Way To Parent


Image source found here.

Don't worry about teaching consequences. You will always be there to bail them out, right? We don't want them to grow up too fast anyway. Who says you have to act like an adult, just because you are 30. Can't we all just be like Peter Pan?

Don't worry about what they watch on TV. They are going to hear that stuff or see that stuff one day anyway. You can't shelter them forever. Based on that logic, I see no reason to wait another minute.

Don't worry about what they listen to on the radio or what kind of music they listen to. Who says children/teens develop bad attitudes based on the kind of music they listen to? Just because they sing along to their favorite songs about violence and sexual escapades doesn't mean they will become violent, go to jail, have children out of wedlock, or catch some disgusting disease. I am sure Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, and all those other female teen idols never listened to "that kind of music".

Don't worry about what they wear. Let them wear whatever they want. See comment above....I am sure you will be proud as can be when your girls dress like hookers at 14, 16, 21 and so on.

Don't worry about how they talk to you or any other adults. Respect is really not that important. After all, they probably will never have to be respectful to their minister, a police officer, an elderly adult, a boss, or a judge. I am sure they will get along just fine.

Don't worry about the way your children treat their siblings. Who cares if they can get along with others? It isn't like they will work in society, have a social life, get married, or have children of their own one day. Getting along is pretty over rated. That is why we don't have gang wars, violence, and run of the mill country wars any more....oh, wait...I guess we do.

Don't worry about teaching them the value of money. Money isn't all that important. Who needs it? As long as you work non stop you can just give them YOUR money. Why should they have to work. Uh oh, what about those pesky grand babies...who will take care of them?

Don't worry about teaching your children kindness and compassion. They could never make a difference in the life of a neighbor, elderly person, unfortunate youth, friend, or family member anyway.

Don't worry about teaching your children about life and DEATH. Never allow them to go to a funeral or see a dead animal. If they never see death then they will never be afraid, right? We don't ever want to frighten our children with the cold hard facts of life.

{It is better to spend more time at funerals than at festivals. For you are going to die and you should think about it while there is still time (Ecclesiastes 7:2)}

Don't worry about teaching them about God or the value of a relationship with HIM. Do we really need to concern ourselves with what happens in eternity?

{For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appeareth for a little time, and then vanishes away (James 4:14)}.

All of the above is certainly sarcastic but hopefully makes a point. The main point of parenting and of life in general can be summed up in 6 words.


Fear God and keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13).

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

Toilet Fly!




This is a great (and short) article. I thought it was so funny! Click here to read the whole thing and to see the above photo much better.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Carbon Belch Day???

Image Source Found Here
You Have GOT To Love This! Refreshing isn't it?

With the Senate expected to vote next month on the massive $1.2 Trillion Carbon tax, Grassfire is striking back at climate alarmism with a bold, new initiative... Carbon Belch Day!

It's the antithesis of all the bogus global warming "go green" websites that try to make you feel guilty for your "carbon footprint."In fact, for this one special day (June 12) we're encouraging citizens to expand their carbon output in one, giant collective"Carbon Belch." We've identified 21 practical ways to measure your one-day "Carbon Belch."

Go here to calculate your total:

On June 12, we’re calling on people around the globe to do their part to save the planet by unleashing a healthy Carbon Belch. There’s so much you can do to increase your carbon footprint on Carbon Belch Day -- mow your lawn, go for a drive, gather neighbors for a barbecue (calculate your carbon belch here). In fact, there’s something for everyone. It’s never been so easy to do your part.

On June 12 I will do my best to increase my CO2 output and unleash a Carbon Belch on the planet. I do this with no fear or concern that I am destroying the planet. In fact, I think a good Carbon Belch can be healthy now and again.

In case you are still wondering what is going on, click here.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Heard At My House Recently


(By the way, doesn't this look like a cool clock radio? Click here to see more about it.)
Well, actually, this conversation was heard in my car and not my house. I just thought it sounded like more fun to say "at my house". Anyway, this conversation actually happened between me and my husband. I thought it was hilarious but he was stumped for a few seconds. It goes, something like this.

Hubby: Our daughter (teenager) is driving me up the wall.

Wife: (wondering to herself what kind of horrific behavior she is exhibiting) Really, what are you talking about?

Hubby: Every radio in the house is turned to THAT station. I try to listen to my favorite "talk radio" shows but every time I turn the radio on the station has been changed.

Wife: (holding back the laughter momentarily) You mean, that crazy teenage daughter of yours has gone all around the house changing the radio station to THAT CRAZY CHRISTIAN music? That same radio station that we ALL like? You have got to be kidding me? Do you hear yourself? (Then the laughter ensues.) Wife then explains how silly it is that hubby thinks his daughter has turned his life upside down by wanting to listen to uplifting, encouraging, moral, happy, Christian music. Then she goes on to remind him that other teenagers actually listen to terrible music that gives their parents the right to complain. ;-)

Oh, the many trials of being in a Christian homeschooling family. These crazy teens can drive you right up the wall with their loud Christian music. (snicker, snicker)

Friday, May 9, 2008

Finally!! Some Good News!!

(Image source: Reuters.)
You have to go here to find out why it may be GOOD to have a big booty!
I am so excited. Wouldn't it be great if times changed? How wonderful would it be if the super skinny models were replaced with the image of girls with an immense tush? The new beautiful babe with a bodacious behind? I can dream can't I?
This could be gooood! ;-)

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

40 Is Fabulous! Right?

Today I turned 40. Not a lot of words for you. How about a song?



A bit over dramatic?

Friday, May 2, 2008

What To Do With All Those Dandelions!


You must go over and read this post at Kitchen Table Medicine.

I will give you a little preview....

Yesterday while watching my hero, Martha Stewart, a guest in her audience asked the HORRIFYING question “Martha, what do I do to kill the dandelions growing in my garden?”

Her answer may be a bit unexpected for some of you.