First Ever Christmas Newsletter

First Ever Christmas Newsletter,

Hello to all our friends and family. Some of you, we’ve seen recently and others, we have not seen in years or decades. We are starting what we hope will be a tradition each Christmas – the family Christmas newsletter. Although we remain as busy as any other family with children and teens, we lead a pretty ordinary life overall. Hopefully, the details of this past year won’t bore you to tears, and you will know a little bit of the goings on around here.

The biggest surprise of 2008 is that Cracker Barrel “restructured” their Information Systems department, eliminating 2 positions. One of the eliminations just happened to be Richard. He has been seeking employment since May and found a temporary consulting position at Lipscomb University. That consulting engagement ended in October. Richard then began studying for his CISA certification. He took the test last Saturday. We prayerfully hope this will open some doors for him. The job market is really tough right now but we are faithful that God will answer our prayers.

We still home school our brood and really enjoy our time together. Micah and Ethan continue to attend the tutorial school on Fridays. It is a blessing to all of us. They have made some extraordinary friendships, and have been blessed with many enriching experiences. Ethan is now a senior and will graduate in May, (sniff, sniff). Micah is a freshman and Hope is in 4th grade.

Ethan has been working a Michael’s Café for 18 months now. He works Sunday through Wednesdays during the lunch shift. He has managed to keep up with his school work and maintain good grades while working. He is essentially an adult and is pretty self sufficient. He spends most of his money and spare time repairing his truck. He has not decided what he would like to do after graduation but he is a hard worker and very dedicated to his causes. He also has a precious girl-friend - Chelsie

Micah continues to grow and mature. He is now taller than Richard! He is a lot like his dad, very quiet, yet quite creative. He continues to amaze us with his abilities. He made a funny video which was shown during the talent show last spring. If you want to see it -go to You Tube and search jellocommercial. You’d never know so much creative humor is inside that quiet young man.

Hope is becoming a special young lady. Last year she got braces. She loves being the center of attention and is taking piano and voice lessons at the tutorial school. She has such a sweet, happy spirit (most of the time). She is pretty dramatic, and was totally in her element when she landed the role of Janie in the play, It’s a Wonderful Life. She loves to stay busy and it is a challenge for us to keep her busy enough.

Tara stays busy with many tasks – home schooling the kids, working from home for the medical physics company, and teaching classes at the tutorial. Richard has put together a cooking website for her http://www.taracooks.com/. Recipes and photos are added to the site often. Many of the recipes are southern favorites, some using organic, preservative free or even wheat free ingredients.

Richard, Ethan and Micah went on a mission trip to Honduras this summer. Our church took a group to Mission Lazarus in July. They helped build a brick security wall around part of the orphanage. The trip made a huge impact on everyone who went, and especially Ethan and Micah. They can’t wait to go again this summer. Mission Lazarus is an impressive work that is possible through American support.

We want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. We pray 2009 will be a year of health, happiness, and a rich spirit for all of you. We’d love to hear from you anytime. Visit our web-site http://www.taracooks.com/ or leave us a comment here at fivebeards!

Blessings to All!

Richard, Tara, Ethan, Micah, and Hope

TARACOOKS.com SAYS THANK YOU!

We want to thank all of you who helped taracooks.com reach 1000 hits! We thought it might take until the end of the year, but you guys made the goal in 4 days. We hope you will continue to visit. We have a lot of Christmas goodies to post before the holiday.

TARACOOKS.com UNVEILED

Hey folks! I have some exciting news (at least to me). Although there are some finishing touches to be made, I believe we are ready to reveal a secret that has been a dream for a long time, and about 6 months in the making. I give you http://www.taracooks.com/.

This web-site came about because of my love of cooking, and my husband's love of eating (and the fact that he's had some free time on his hands lately). He has worked diligently for a while on this project and I will be forever grateful for all his input. He is a delightful man, and I am so blessed to share my life with him. THANKS HONEY!

Right now, we have focused on getting some of our favorite holiday dishes up on the web-site. I hope to expound upon healthier eating through "from scratch" baking. I use as many organic ingredients as possible and avoid food additives as often as possible. Although many recipes I wil post are desserts, or are made with real butter - you will find them tastier, and purer than processed, store bought items.

Our goal is to get 1000+ hits before the year end. So spread the word, pay us a visit, and leave us your feedback or comments. Most importantly - let's get to cookin' and eatin'

Things You Probably Don't Know About Me

For lack of any useful material to post I give you a "list"

• I love chocolate, but can't stand chocolate ice cream -ICK!
• I hardly ever wear nail polish
• I work best under pressure
• I have a brown fleck in one eye
• My eyes aren't blue, but not quite green
• The hair on my arms is red
• I have a mole on my leg in the exact place where my mother had one -creepy I know
• I have one molar with 5 points (proof my great great granny was Cherokee)
• Most of the time I enjoy being alone
• There is no substitute for organic orange juice
• I only cook with real butter - haven't had Crisco in my pantry for years
• I've been "with child" 6 times
• I've had 2 surgeries
• I've had one cardio conversion
• I've been as far west at LA
• I've been as far east as Moscow, Russia
• I have 2 degrees, one in business, and one in education
• I am a paid tutor, and manage a small medical physics business
• I've never owned a new car
• I've never had a paved driveway
• I don't care much for fine jewelry
• I have never ridden a horse - or even been on one
• I loathe lipstick
• I've got too much to do to be making up lists!

Young Brad Paisley - My Science Student

Check out the new Brad Paisley, Keith Urban video. The kid who plays young Brad is one of my science students. Way to go Joseph! I am so proud of you. It's a good thing you are home schooled so you have time to hang out with the stars!

AMERICAN DREAMS

I intended to do this post sooner, but there's been a lot going on, and a lot to process. First I want to say how glad I am the 2008 election is finally OVER! I agree with many, that this was the longest election process I ever recall. Second, I hope if you are reading this that you will respect my decision in voting. My candidate did not win. I know many Christians who strongly supported McCain, and I also know many Christians who strongly supported Barack. Everyone has their reasons for voting. Hopefully as Christians, we all put a lot of thought and prayer into our decisions, and as Christians we can continue to respect each other - regardless of politics.

In our American History home school lessons with Hope, we are up to the point where the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth. Before they got off the boat, the Pilgrims decided to come up with a written agreement for governing themselves. They did not really desire any form of government at all. They delighted themselves in living to please God Almighty. They knew if they followed God's instructions, there would be peace and harmony in the New World. However, the Pilgrims were not the only people on the Mayflower. Other folks came to the New World who did not share the Pilgrims' religious beliefs. Therefore, everyone aboard agreed it would be best to have a guide for self-government before a new colony was set up. The Mayflower Compact was drafted, which later would become a model for the Mother Document, upon which our country was founded.

From the very start, the Pilgrims and "Strangers" shared different ideas and reasons for coming to this New Land. However, they all were wise enough to come up with reasonable solutions to establishing a self-government which would allow everyone to achieve their dreams. I find this pretty amazing. But it is also evident that the Pilgrims and Strangers respected each other and were willing to work together for the common good. In spite of their differences, both groups depended on each other for survival through those brutal months of suffering which followed their landing at Plymouth.

There is no better time than NOW for all of us to reflect back on the early beginning of our country. We should let this part of history be an example for us to earnestly heed. If American continues to be the place where dreams become reality, many factors will be key.

Democrats and Republicans are going to have to put aside partisan selfishness and get down to the business of working for the common good. I sure hope this can happen, but it is hard to be optimistic, given recent history. I'd like to see the president elect build himself a cabinet that includes the wisest of both Democrats and Republicans - but that's probably a stretch.

We must all appreciate that our freedom is not free. There has always been, and will continue to be, a great price to pay for freedom. We must strive to understand and appreciate the price of our freedom and never compromise the principles of that freedom. I hope, as a country, we never loose our heritage. It is an anchor to democracy.

I'd like to see individual responsibility and common sense make a come back. How much should individuals expect from their government?? Frist, I expect my government to protect my country from any person, party, or other country who threatens our freedom. I also expect my government to provide sound and strong infrastructure in order to live and work. But I don't expect the government to provide for my every need, and do I want it to. We need to carefully weigh our expectations for individual responsibility against the freedom we lose when we insist the government do something for us.

Finally, our country needs a lot of prayer. Many situations that seem impossible, can be overcome when we ask for help. Although I did not vote for the president elect, I will be praying for him in the difficult months ahead. He will be bearing a load most would never volunteer to carry. I wouldn't want to walk in his shoes for an hour, much less a day.

So for those I know who voted for Barack, I hope he makes us all proud. I dream of better days ahead and sincerely hope our leaders can make good progress. For those who were not thrilled with the election outcome - please take heart. We answer to a higher leader than the best Democrat or Republican. God is still in control and is always seeking to win our vote. May God continue to bless you and may God continue to bless American. We sure need blessing.

URGETNT MISSIONARY PRAYER REQUEST

I just received this from our home school group and thought I'd ask a special prayer for Marysol.

Marysol Rodriguez Blomerus graduated from Heritage Christian Academy in 2001. She and her husband (DeWet) are fulltime missionaries in Africa. Many of you help support her by dropping money in the bucket that we set out for her each week. She developed Malaria while doing missionary work a few years ago. Presently, she and DeWet are in a remote village in Nairoba. Marysol's malaria has flared up again and she is not doing well, and they don't have any medical facilities, doctors...nothing to help her. Her mom has been notified and she is asking everyone to pray for her.
Please take a moment and join us in prayer for Marysol's health

UNFREEDOM OF SPEECH

A Time to Save and A Time to Cast Away....

I've never really considered myself a very sentimental person. It really takes a lot to make me cry. I'm not very good at sending birthday cards, get well cards, and I hate sending sympathy cards. If the whole world depended upon my sending cards for people to receive them - then nobody would ever get any cards.

But for some reason, I simply have been unable to ever throw away a card. I think I have saved just about every card that was ever sent our way. I am trying really hard to get to the point where I can begin putting photos into albums from 1986 forward. I also have oodles of Rubbermaid totes full of all these cards, notes, pictures the kids drew, and other memorabilia from our lives.

Last week, I thought "This is nonsense!" I brought a tote to the living room, along with a trash can and started tossing out cards - but not without re-reading them though. I had also organized my cards by year and by events, all stacked neatly and sealed in ZipLock gallon size bags. There were cards from my first baby shower, when I was expecting Ethan (1990). There were cards from Ethan's birth and his first Valentine's Day and first Birthday. I have saved ALL the Christmas cards anyone has ever sent us, including all the photos. There were graduation cards, cards from Richard to me, hand drawn cards the kids have made me, notes from the kids, pictures they have scribbled in church, and even cards from people I cannot place in my past. There were cards from my Grandmother Bybee, who always wrote long notes to me. There were cards from my mother to Ethan - who he doesn't remember. And finally, there are cards for the passing of each of my parents, Josie Mae, and a couple other miscarriages. I've even saved all those "I'm thinking of you today so please don't go over the edge just yet" cards.

I did OK until the trash can got full, and I wasn't even through with the first tote. At some point, I simply "lost it". I buried my head in my hands over the trash can and the tears showered down on the cards. I thought to myself - "Half my life is in that trash can." I had to walk away. The can remains in the middle of the living room floor. And stacks of cards and other paper memories lie in piles around the couch. I seem to be stuck, unable to sort, toss, and cast away any more.

At this point I need some insight here. Should I retrieve all my cards, put them back in the tote, and let the kids have the honor of doing this after I kick the bucket? Or should I just "get over it" and start tossing? Any thoughts? Suggestions?

I've been Hearted

My blog's been hearted by Sunny:

1. Where is your cell phone? - right beside my keyboard
2. Where is your significant other? On his way to Nashville
3. Your hair color? Red
4. Your mother? The kindest person I ever knew
5. Your father? Unique, Odd, Peculiar
6. Your favorite thing? Cooking
7. Your dream last night? Nope
8. Your dream/goal? For Richard to have a job, Write a cookbook and cooking web-site, Travel, get out of debt
9. The room you're in? Study
10. Your hobby? Singing and Cooking
11. Your fear? Dying before I get 20+ years of photos in albums
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? Still married with children
13. Where were you last night? Tunetown Show Chorus Practice
14. What you're not? Rule-follower
15. One of your wish-list items? Kitchen Aid Artisan Stand Mixer - Stainless Steel
16. Where you grew up? Tennessee
17. The last thing you did? Helped Hope write her name in Cherokee
18. What are you wearing? Yoga pants and top - and "unmentionables"
19. Your TV? Off
20. Your pet? Deceased and dismembered - sad, but true :(
21. Your computer? Too many - 2 PC's, 2 working laptops, 2 dead laptops
22. Your mood? Optomistically dismayed
23. Missing someone? Parents and Ronald Reagan
24. Your car? 187,000 miles and 13 payments left!
25. Something you're not wearing? Socks, makeup, perfume
26. Favorite store? Kroger is about the only store I go to these days
27. Your summer? Too short
28. Love someone? Absolutely
29. Your favorite color? Red
30. When is the last time you laughed? Today at our breakfast slogan - "A muffing a day, keeps the mofia away!"
31. Last time you cried? Last week

I'm supposed to heart 10 people, and they are to heart 10 more. But I don't have 10 blog freinds to heart so here goes:

I heart
Pioneer Woman
Batman
George Bush
Sarah Palin
Micah
Kelly
Amy
Donnie
Jordan
Karen

TWINS, TRAINS, TREES & A MOONBOW

In my previous post, I introduced you to BIG SOUTH FORK NATIONAL RIVER RESERVE (BSFNNR). I will now continue to plug for this park. There's over 150 miles of marked hiking trails within this park. There are other trails for biking and four wheeling. Even more trails exist for horseback riding. Our family hit the bike trails a couple of times. We also took a hike to the TWIN ARCHES.

The TWIN ARCHES are the largest sandstone structures in the United States. The South Arch is the taller of the two. The peak of it's deck rises over 100 feet above the ground. In the eastern United States very few bridges are as high or as broad as the South Arch. I can hardly begin to describe these TWINS. They are gigantic.To put scale into perspective, Hope is in the photo above standing on a rock. In the photo below, Ricard, Micah,and Hope are standing on top of the North Twin, just to the left of the X in the tree trunks. They are simply dots in the photo, which I took firmly planted on the ground way below the arch.

Here's our reward after we hoofed it to the top of the South Twin. We sure did feel a little closer to heaven.

Another feature of nature that I found amazing were the leaves. I studied them a lot. Hope and I gathered a collection, identified them (with the help of the displays at the Visitor's Center) and made rub-outs of the leaves we collected. I couldn't get over the fact that the Sasafrass Tree makes 4 different shaped leaves which can all be found on the same branch. There are tear drop shapes, left and right mitten shapes, and another that resembles a tulip. Sasafrass was used for a variety of medicinal and cosmetic purposes way back when.

Notice the tulip shaped 4 prong leaf above. Below we have the mitten shaped and the tear drop shaped leaf.

Another surpise that lies within the park is the Big South Fork Scenic Railway. On Tuesday, our family drove to Sterns KY to catch the train. The train took us through and to old coal mining camps. We had a picnic lunch at the Blue Herron camp. The kids could pick up coal on the ground there, or dig it out of the dirt. We got to see the south fork of the Cumberland River - the origination of the name of the park.

Finally, the highlight of our trip came on Wednesday night. We learned of Cumberland Falls (again on the KY end of the park). Cumberland Falls is the only place in the western hemisphere where you can witness a moonbow. All the conditions must be perfect. First, there must be a full moon. Next you must have clear skies. There must also be enough mist from the falls floating in the air above the river. If all these conditions are perfect - you've got yourself a moonbow. We drove over an hour to get to the falls. There were clouds everywhere. I kept praying for the good Lord to show us His wonders. Then right before the moon rose to it's zenith above the trees - there were no clouds to be seen. We waited patiently and here's what we got to see - It was truely AMAZING!

HILLBILLY SURPISES FROM HEAVEN part 1

Last week our family loaded the camper and headed out for the hills of east TN. Our destination? - BIG South Fork National River Reserve (BSFNRR). We had never been there before and what little we knew was from all the raving cousin Kelly did following their camp trips to BSFNRR. If you ever get the chance to camp there DO IT!

This was by far the BEST CAMP TRIP EVER for our family. First of all, our whole family was together most of the trip. This doesn't happen very often now that Ethan is working, and has a life of his own. Second, I was blown away by the numerous ways God kept on surprising us on this trip. That's what I'd like to share and it will probably take more than one post to get it all together.

If you ever travel to BSFNRR, you MUST stop at Cumberland General Store in Clark Range TN. It is on HWY 127 along the way to Big South Fork:

The first 2/3rds of the store is full of antiques and novelties. In the back is a 50's style diner. Scoot yourself up to the bar stools and order up a burger and fries with fountain drink. Put a nickle in the real juke box and select your favorite oldie.

You CAN NOT, I repeat, CAN NOT, leave the place without ordering this:

HOT FUDGE CAKE UMMMMM!

Or before petting this:

This precious feline belongs to the store and has a collar with a bottle top attached. Sweetness!

We left feeling like we'd been transported back in time 50+ years - back to a time when life was simple and contentment could be found in Hot Fudge Cake, and by stroking a sweet kitty. By the way, our family could not finish all that HOT FUDGE CAKE. It was sad to leave some in the dish!

I have much more to show and tell, so stay tuned for part 2.

Orphaned

I warn you this post will not be upbeat, yet it will be an honest one. I'm really having a hard time this month. In spite of the crisp October nights, the beauty of the trees, and the clear blue skies - October is usually a downer for me. If I had my way, I'd leave everything and everyone behind and disappear for the next 3 months.

I should be celebrating my oldest daughter's 11th birthday. I should be making molasses cookies for Granddaddy's birthday. I ought to be planning a way to honor my mother's 68th birthday. And my dad should be here to take Ethan and Micah fishing. But these things won't happen this year -or ever.

I was barely 22 when Dad passed away. Today marks the 22 anniversary of his death. Mom passed away 7 years later when Micah was only 10 days old. My brother, who is 11 years younger than me, was only 10 when Dad pass and 16 when Mom died. Although I was married when I lost both my parents, I was in no way a completed work. I still feel as orphaned as my brother feels. For us, time has stood still in many respects, with the passing of our Mom and Dad.

It has been an incredibly empty and lonely road - growing up without parents. Yea, my parents were around to clothe, bathe, and feed me, help with homework ect. For that I am thankful. But I did not stop needing them just because I was young adult "age" when they passed.

I miss having someone to share my joys and my worries with. I can never just pick up the phone and say "Guess what the kids did!" or "What should I do about this problem Mom?" I can never "go home" for Thanksgiving or Christmas. And I'll never taste Mom's fried chicken on my birthday again.

There is always a void for all the special occasions and events. Mom was not there to cheer me on throughout he deliveries of Micah and Hope. And I never wanted my Mom so badly as I did during the still birth delivery of Josie Mae. That was the worst day of my life.

I often wonder what they would think of their grandchildren. I think Dad would love the fact that he has not one but two grand sons with red hair. He would be surprised to find that Ethan stands just like him. Right foot in front of left, hands on both hips, fingers widespread. Would Mom be ever proud to hear Hope read aloud, although she is blind in one eye? I think Dad would be proud and at peace to know his grandchildren are home schooled.

I guess there is peace in knowing that someday we should all be reunited. But often it does little to make the hurt go away. This is just one of those times when we can't have what we want. Here's to loving and remembering some very special people, and to wondering what could have been.....

BOYCOTT THANKSGIVING! AND PONDERABLE QUOTES

With all the political broo haha going on, I ran across these quotes which contain more sustenance than any words coming out of today's politicians. They are worth pondering.

"Men must be governed by God or they will perish by tyrants." - William Penn

"All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing." Edmund Burke

"It is impossible to enslave, mentally or socially, a Bible-reading people. The principles of the Bible are the groundwork of human freedom." - Horace Greeley

"Bad men cannot make good citizens. It is impossible that a nation of infidels or idolaters should be a nation of free men. It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains." - Patrick Henry

These final 2 resonate loudly with me - and cause me great concern:

"The first thing necessary to control the people, is to separate them from their heritage." - Communist Karl Marx

This final one we can all relate to:

"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the people discover they can vote themselves largess (gifts, money, favors, ect) out of the public treasury. From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidate promising the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy - to be followed by a dictatorship." - Lord Woodhouselee

I see us Americans losing pieces of our precious heritage each day. Sadly, many Americans don't know much about our true heritage, and could care less about preserving it. Finally, many will base their vote in November soley upon the candidate or party they feel will help their wallets. Perhaps we wouldn't be this economic mess if so much financial adultery had not been committed.

The other day, I decided I would not celebrate Thanksgiving this year. I couldn't exactly explain to myself why I feel this way. Thanksgiving is an American holiday rooted in the deep heritage our country was founded upon. I realized that heritage is near extinction and it seems hypocrytical to celebrate it now. How about you? Do you feel like boycotting Thanksgiving

THE EMPTY CHAIR

Our kitchen table has 6 chairs. Dad gets one end, mom the other, the two boys on the outside and Hope sits across from Micah. Then there is the empty chair. Often at dinnertime, I glance at the empty chair and wonder.................

Eyes of green or eyes of blue?
Freckled faced and snaggled toothed?
Tall and lean or short and stout?
Girly girl indoors or tomboy out?
Curly and red or blond and straight?
Would you eat carrots I put on your plate?
Vanilla or chocolate? Pepperoni, or Cheese?
Studious and serious, or just a big tease?
Happy Go Lucky, a Saving-Pack-Rat?
Proper and Prim, Organized and all That?
Musical, Athletic, Shy and Cute?
There are so many questions Mommy has for you!
You should really be here -
To take the chair which sits empty.
To blow out 11 candles on your cake
To open birthday presents a plenty.
Remembering Josie Mae Beard 1997 Today
Loving you ALWAYS!
MOM

SPLISH SPLASH

I recently decided to join the Nashville Tunetown Show Chorus. Tunetown is an all ladies chorus, with over 100 members, that sings barbershop style songs while acting. I was barely able to audition in time to learn pass the songs for Encore - Tunetown's annual performance. I made all the auditions for the 50's segment. Here are a couple of shots of me goofing off before the show. The first one is with my dear friend Kathy, who got me into all this! Here we are in the bath tub, which was used on stage during the performance of SPLISH SPLASH, I WAS TAKIN' A BATH.

Encore was held at the Acuff Theater. Harry Chapman was our host for the evening. Some male quartets also performed. The highlight of the evening was when all of us joined the quartets while performing GOD BLESS THE USA - which was dedicated to all our Vets. Stay "tuned" for more posts on Tunetown!

Breaking News From China

China will no longer publish a phone directory due to chaos

There's so many Wing's and Wong's in the directory, people were always wingin Wong numbers!

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

FREE RICE for the HUNGRY

Us homeschool moms have a couple of things in common. We LOVE books and educational materials. And we enjoy helping others. I was SOOO excited when my dear friend Karen, told me about www.freerice.com. It is a web-site that will donate rice to the hungry for every correct question you answer. Right now Hope is on this site reviewing her multiplication tables. She's learning math and doing something to help others at the same time. My favorite challenge on the site is the "vocabulary" portion. You can click at the bottom and select your level, from easy on up to very difficult. There are other languages you can play besides English. There is a Geography section too. Pretty Cool! I couldn't keep this wonderful web-site to myself. So next time you or your kids are bored, log onto this site, learn something new, and feed the hungry.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF..................

Things are always crazy at our house. Here' s a run down of a typical day in the life of a homeschooling, part-time working, home making mom and wife:

6:30am -arise, shower, dress - stumbling over suitcase, mound of dirty laundry, and clutter
7:00am -ascend to the attic, pull down Hope's fall winter box of clothes, have daughter try on
8:00am -all fall clothes are either on hangers or in a bag to give away
8:05am - begin the daunting task of a week's worth of laundry
8:15 am - proceed to kitchen to make waffles. It's not too hard because I have the mix made up. Hope can plug in the waffle iron, measure 1 cup of mix, buttermilk, crack and egg and she's good to go. She wants chocolate chips on hers. She's in luck, there are a few in the bag!
8:30 am - time to start school. This is our first year to try this. Hope has a new Latin program and she LOVES it. She picks Latin to start her week. Also, I have the boys up by now to get an early start on chores and school. This place is a train wreck!
Sometime Micah makes his own waffle - with chocolate chips too.
9:00 am - Latin, Cursive Without Tears Handwriting, and Spelling are complete. I've also taken a couple of work calls and have payroll "issues" to deal with. I set Hope up on www.freerice.com to work on her vocabulary while I deal with payroll.
9:30 MATH - not Hope's Favorite and we eventually have a few tears today. Don't they make a MATH WITHOUT TEARS program TOO?
9:50 Ethan leaves for work at the local diner. He works a double shift on Mondays. We won't see him until after 8pm.
10:00am Mommy needs a break from Hope's math as bad as Hope does. I switch out laundry and fold the 3 loads that are in baskets (some laundry was left unfolded from last washing).
10:30 I check on Micah who is working on Algebra upstairs. He moans he's OK. I think some protein and fruit would help his thinking power, so we all have apples and peanut butter for a snack.
11:00 After more laundry and loading the dishwasher, Hope and I head back to the desk for more school.
11:15 Tuna Fish Salad is on the menu today for lunch so I proceed to kitchen to boil a couple of eggs. Return to help Hope. Micah calls for help on ALGEBRA. He's frustrated because he can't tell if his calculator rounds the last digit or not. He's studying terminating and infinite integers. I don't remember studying this in school. I have to look up the answers and work backwards to be able to help him.
12:00 I continue reading MY SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN to Micah and Hope. I am enjoying learning the things I should have learned a long time ago, with my kids.
12:15 LUNCH TIME. Hope makes GRAPE KOOLAID, we open some fresh LAYS chips and make our sandwiches. We usually go upstairs and watch a 30 minute program like DICK VAN DYKE, or JOHN and KATE PLUS 8. Today we watch VERMINATORS on DISCOVERY. The feature of the day was a house infested with cockroaches. I don't know why we are watching this while eating lunch?
1:00 More laundry. It's time to hit the books again. I review the first 2 chapters of American History with Hope. I am pleased with her progress. She is frustrated she can't remember all the names and places. When I asked her who PONCE DE LEON was - she told me, "Wasn't he the guy who searched for that POND OF YOUTH?" She cracks me up!
Micah is finishing his ALGEBRA and starting SCIENCE.
2:00 Sometime I unintentionally fall asleep on my bed, which is where I was reading to Hope. I wake up face down, my left arm and hand are asleep, in a pool of drool. Hope has gone AWOL since I fell asleep. Ethan calls and needs a phone number.
3:00 I head to town to check the mail at the office. Then head to the bank to deposit a check for work. I'm back home before 4pm. Of course more laundry is washed and dried so I switch and fold again.
5:00 Hope is roaming around bored and telling me there's NOTHING TO DO. So I get her to help me clean my bathroom. Micah cleans the other one. We are all busy cleaning with the stereo cranked up. Things are looking better.
6:15 meatloaf and potatoes go in the oven to bake. Richard is home. Micah mops the kitchen voluntarily - because he's "tired of stepping on crumbs with his bare feet." He also says he'd like to know what it's like to have the whole house cleaned at once. ME TOO!
7:15 We toss a salad and burn some toast. We eat dinner and watch an episode of DICK VAN DYKE.
8:00 Richard's phone alerts an appointment. It says WALK.
8:30 Richard Hope and I set out on a walk in the dark. Hope thinks it would be fun to walk in her PJ's. Micah rides his bike. There is no moon tonight, so it's pretty dark. Ethan arrives home right before we leave.
9:00 pm more laundry, load the dishwasher. Porch swing time with hubby
9:45 reading with Hope
10:00 Tuck Hope in Bed
10:15 Ethan and Micah are doing a Literature Through Movies program this year. They settle down with blankets and THE QUIET MAN with Cary Grant. They will watch a total of 17 classics and write essays on each one. This course is refreshing after so many years of books.
Switch out laundry again. Thankfully my sheets are clean and dry just in time for bed. I check on a couple of home school programs in my TOP 100 PICKS book.
10:35 Clean sheets are on the bed - Richard and I call it a day.

Every day is very different around here. There was nothing spectacular about our day. But I am thankful for our time together. It was a good day, just a long and hard one.

VOTE HERE!

Whatever your political views click here, it's funny!

HOW MANY POLOCKS DOES IT TAKE?.......

This is a follow up to yesterday's post NO MORE GAS!!!! After I finished posting that one, Richard called me. He decided he couldn't drive any farther. He had pulled into the parking lot of the Una Church of Christ. Knowing the preacher there lives in Lebanon, he was hoping to catch a ride home. But all the doors were locked tight, and nobody was there. I'd been working on a plan as to HOW I would get him home if it came to this. I knew I could borrow my in-law's vehicle, if I could just locate enough gas to get our van over there. I headed out, with the red gas gauge mocking me below the E line. I made a quick turn into Clay Estates, and called my friend Amanda. Luckily she was home and had a couple of gallons of gas in the mower can. She put a gallon in my tank and gave me her nearly empty tank, in case I found a place to buy gas on the way. Next I graciously hugged and thanked Amanda, hopped in the van and headed to the Altmans to raid their mower gas. Andrea had been on the phone, and even made a trip to Zips for me. But all was in vain as the car in front of her got the last gallon and the station closed. Her son Nick put a little gas in my tank, and poured what precious fuel was left into the gas can Amanda gave me. Then I set out to my in-laws. Meanwhile, I had called Richard's sister and his brother-in-law went searching for gas. He too struck out. He went back home, siphoned a 1/2 gallon from his mower (which I believe is a push mower) and met me at my in-laws. He tried to siphon a bit of gas from Mema's CRV, but no dice there. I decided it was time for me to get to Richard ASAP. The sun was already going down, and he was not in the best part of town (there had been a hold up in that area earlier in broad daylight). I figured I had almost 2 gallons to put in his truck. He was probably at least 30 miles from our house and the truck gets 17-19 mpg. I pulled off at a few more stations along the way, but was not able to locate fuel.

By the time I got to Nashville, it was after dark. Richard emptied the Amanda's gas can into his tank and we left. Andrea called to let us know that Pilot at 231 still had gas and her husband was able to fill up there. We headed strait to the 231 exit and waiting a while. I noticed there were 2 pumps with no cars. I didn't see the familiar wal-mart bag over the pumps and pulled over to them and so did Richard. We filled up both vehicles. I went back to my in-laws, switched vehicles, and got back in my nearly empty van, headed back to the gas station. The wait was much longer this time. Most of the gas must have been gone from the station. It took me over 10 minutes to pump 16 gallons. By the time I got home, it was after 10pm.

Some days, things just don't work out like you plan them. We were very excited to finally have full tanks of gas. We were also thankful to be home safely. There were 3 people killed in the wreck that shut the interstate down most of the afternoon.

I was upset to read today about the "energy bill" Nancy Pelosi rushed through Congress yesterday. From what I can tell, the bill pretty much locks offshore drilling for the next 30 years. It makes no sense to me...............

NO MORE GAS!!!!!!

Last week, ahead of the approaching hurricane IKE, my dear hubby called to ask me how much gas I had. I was sitting on E and he urged me to make a special trip to town to fill up. Since we drive to Nashville for school on Fridays, I hopped in the van and headed to Kroger. I also summoned our teenage driver to do the same. Hubby was on his way too, so we all waited in lines to fill up - at $3.60ish a gallon.

Last Saturday, I'd already gone through 1/2 a tank and decided to fill up again. The first 3 places were completely out of all grades of gas. Walmart bags encased the pump handles, and these stations reminded me of some freakish ghost town. This was the first time I'd ever gone to purchase fuel, and there was NONE. After going to 3 stations, I found gas at our Kroger station, topped off the tank and paid $4.19 a gallon which was a bargain, from what I hear.

Later in the week, those gas stations had removed their Walmart bags from the pump handles and everything seemed to be back to normal. I didn't even think to fill up last night before our weekly trip to Nashville today. Of course, I was back on E again, so Dear Hubby put a couple of gallons in the tank to get me to school this morning, and save me having to stop en route.

I had planned to fill up this afternoon at Providence before heading home. One mom from school called to tell me to avoid I-40 because a wreck had shut it completely down. Right after her call another mom called to tell me she'd been past 5 gas stations in Mt Juliet, and they were ALL out of gas.

I figured if I could get back to Lebanon, I'd surely find gas in my home town. We took all the back roads and paths and finally got back to Lebanon. Only traffic was a mess on Main Street. If there were any gas stations which had supplies of gasoline, traffic had blocked all 4 lanes of Main Street. People were waiting out into the street to fill up. The police had arrived and were keeping cars from entering the gas stations since there was no more space to wait in line. I was below E at this point. I manuvered through traffic, made a sharp turn off Main and decided I'd try the Farmers Coop - it's off the beaten path, but they do sell gas. It too was closed down. Kroger was closed with orange cones in the fill up lanes, Kangaroo - closed - and the $$ per gallon numbers had been removed from their sign. In all, I passed 10 gas station this afternoon. 3 of 10 had gas, but these were so overrun with panic stricken drivers I couldn't get to them. I decided it best to simply get home and hope there's enough lawn mower gas in the cans to get me back to town.

Richard just called while I was working on this post. He's on Nolensville Road in Nashville with an empty tank, and can't get near any stations with gasoline. His options are to keep driving until he runs out or just stay put. I don't know if he will come home tonight or not. I can't resuce him if he calls, because I'm empty too!

This is MADNESS! I don't understand how Nancy Pelosi and the majority Democrats can refuse to address our national energy issues any longer. Maybe those who have to walk home tonight will have a lot of time to ponder voting - if there's any gas to drive to the polls come November.

Hispanic Outreach - Monday Tutoring

There are numerous ways our church reaches out to the community, which allows our children to serve the Lord in various ways. This spring, the boys and Richard helped build a deck on the Habitat for Humanity House. They also went on a mission trip to Honduras and help build a 180' brick wall. During the school year, members of our church tutor Hispanic students from the local school district.

These kids are picked up at their school in the church bus, brought to church, given a drink and snack, and then receive help with their home work. Most of these students can speak English pretty well. The problem is that most of their parents do not speak much English. Therefore, the parents are not able to offer much help with home work. So each Monday afternoon, we help out in any way we are needed. Here are some pics I took a couple of weeks ago.

Here's Micah with Juan. Juan always asks Micah if he will come back the next week and tutor him. Juan is very well mannered and seems eager to do his best. He is also adorable!
Here's my student - Roxanna. Like Juan, she's also in 5th grade. Roxanna is also very bright and easy to tutor. She's good at math, but doesn't like it very much. She speaks English very well and struggles to remember her Spanish. Her mother makes her go to a Spanish church in Nashville on Sundays to help her not forget her native language. But she is usually back for our Wed evening services.
Here's Hope with Christina. Christina is a second grader. Hope reviews Christina's math facts with flash cards, then they move to the dry erase board and enjoy writing the facts too. Christina is a bit shy and is always eager to play or have a story read to her.

The amazing outcome through this tutoring ministry is the number of Hispanic children who return for worship services and Bible school. Last I heard, we have 40-50 Hispanic children in our Bible Classes. Sometimes the parents come too.

I'm so happy my children can help out with the tutoring. I think it helps them realize there are many people right here in our home town who need our help. This ministry helps them focus on something bigger and better than self. I hope and pray they always have a passion for helping others. Finally, if my Mom were still alive, I know where I would find her on Monday afternoon!

REDNECK OIL CHANGE... A "HOW TO" GUIDE

Here's the long awaited, highly anticipated, over rated REDNECK OIL CHANGE - A HOW TO:

First you must be in the heart of REDNECKVILLE to perform a REDNECK OIL CHANGE. The exact location of this oil change will remain an'namus. But we were campin' in the heart of moonshine country, with ample supply of sticks and snakes over Labor Day weekend.

Here's what 'cha need - fresh oil, a couple of 1/2 gallon milk cartons, an empty plastic bottle, an' of course a new oil filter. We also used a wranch and a lasanga pan, but they aint pictured here for sum reason.

To insure the success of the RED NECK OIL CHANGE, proper attire is requried. I cannot stress the importance of wearin' a UT ORANGE VOLS T shirt or something else REDNECKISH.

RED NECK assistants must also must abide by da dress code.

It always helps to have a purty gal sit on your vehicle, don't it though?

Of course bare feet are a requirement for any RED NECK OIL CHANGE - Dirty Bare Feet are NOT an option! Next, have your RED NECK assistant to do the really important stuff, like cuttin' da bottom off da empty water bottle. It helps if your RED NECK helper is handy with an 'sortment of firearms and cutting tools. Thanks Josh for your 'sistance! Great job Josh - you've just created a home made RED NECK Oil Funnel!

Next jest whack the tops off those 1/2 gallon milk cartons!

Only the sharpest RED NECKS will think to remove the oil cap from the engine. It makes the oil drain a 'hole lot faster when you remove the plug.

Ya gotta have yer wranch handy to unsrew the oil plug, or whack at the oil filter out of frustrations cuz yer too dang far from da Walmarts to go buy a blame oil filter wranch.

Next, this is tricky- remove the oil plug, but don't let her drop into the milk cartons which are restin' in that lasanga pan. (Eat the lasanga first though. The out house is usually crowded at the campground. Now let all dat dirty oil drain out into milk cartons. Ya gotta get a lot of dirty oil on yerself to prove you are a RED NECK. The gals 'round here love a fella with oily fingernails.

Now hold on to yer britches, we're almost dun. Next ya gotta remember to put da new oil filter on. This may require contortin' the body to get her dun right. Then by all means DON'T FORGET TO PUT DA PLUG BACK. Cars and trucks don't like it much when owners forget to take care of the plug!Next, put that RED NECK oil funnel into the opening of the engine. By da way, this water bottle was the best fit ever and narry a drop of oil leaked from this home made funnel.

Now fill'er up with fresh clean oil. If yer ride has high miles and you been driving a long way to get your moonshine, or to date your cousin, we recommend oil fer high mileage vehicles.Now don't fergit to replace the oil cap after you'uns is finished pourin' in the oil.

Finally ya gotta let the vehicle set for a spell so all the oil can flow down into the right crevices of yer engine. Use this time to go to the outhouse, drink from the hose pipe, or cook some grits. After a spell, come back and check the oil level. Make sure she's full, but don't overfill. If there's too much oil in there, call aunt Maude to come by and give her a straw.

But wait, we aint dun yet. RED NECKS care about this perty world too. Ya gotta pour the dirty oil back into the plastic container the fresh oil was in. This way you can take it somewhere official to be recycled.Finally throw away your trash. Remember, real RED NECKS don't litter!

GOD, POLITICS, and "ISSUES" FINAL GO ROUND

After completing my last post at 2am , I was completely spent! I'll admit, I couldn't go to sleep for worrying about offending anyone with my thoughts and questions. I had several ideas churning in my feeble brain but will not have the time, energy, or gumption to get them onto my blog. In fact, I'm considering halting the blogging indefinitely. With the start of our school year, life has become insanely chaotic. Here are the remaining urgent issues that will continue to weigh heavy on my heart. I won't expound a lot on them simply because I don't have the time.

The tax burden on all Americans and the growing deficit - I firmly believe that increasing taxes will only send America further into recession. (This was the consensus 20 years ago when I was pursuing my Finance Degree. Something called Trickle Down Economics) Our Govt has proved itself impotent in regards to taxing and spending. So much corruption and waste is involved in the process. Have you considered the combined total of all the tax you pay? Income Tax, State Tax, Sales Tax, Capital Gains Tax, Property Tax, Taxes on every license you need for life and business, Business Tax, Payroll Tax, Inheritance Tax, Social Security Tax, Medicare Tax, tax on electric power, gas tax, city tax, Internet tax, cell phone tax, land line tax, water tax....... And when you die, your family will have to pay tax on your funeral expenses as well. There must be more accountability and responsibility to the taxpayer. I say we appoint a committee consisting of successful small business owners, successful charity organizers, Dave Ramsey, and the lady who runs www.moneysavingmoms.com. Put these people in charge of the budget and lets compare the financial status of the treasury in 10 years.

Illegal Immigration - We can send men to the moon, and yet our leaders cannot lay their hatred of each other aside long enough to find a solution for this problem. Protecting America from future terror attacks should be top priority. Having a secure border is only common sense. However, a compassionate solution should be worked out for our southern neighbors who depend on working here in America for their on survival. I appoint a committee of military and engineer experts to handle securing our borders immediately. I also appoint a committee made up of compassionate people who love God and understand the needs of those wanting to work here, or become Americans. I'd pick Becky and FH Gates - missionaries in South America, Douglas and Vanessa Ribero (Vanessa is Becky and FH's Daughter). She grew up in Brazil, married a Brazilian, is tri-linqual too. She and Douglas work with immigrants in the Atlanta area and know first hand the struggles they endure. I'd put Cindy Spickard (she handles the Hispanic after school tutoring at our church) on the committee too because she understand the educational needs of the children of our immigrants. Cindy Herring would have valuable insight through Healing Hands International.

Defending the Defenseless - The oppressed always need a voice. I'm not comfortable with a global tax to "feed the poor" because of the mess the UN made with the food relief in the past. But I'd much rather pay more for gasoline and keep the price of grain at a minimum. It gives me such joy to privately support relief efforts. I'd rather write my own check and know those in desperate situations will received 100% of my donations than have to hand over more taxes to our govt or worse yet, a world govt and let the bureaucracies decide how much they will keep and what smaller percent would be given to the needy. One of the most compassionate and wise persons I know is my brother Jason. He'd thrive on such a committee and I'd volunteer to help him. I'd also pick the head of C OF C Disaster Relief, Healing Hands International, and Cindy McCain.

Environment and Energy - I probably don't have to say much here. It sickens me that America relies on nations who chant "DEATH TO AMERICA" for anything, especially a valuable commodity such as energy. We are putty in their hands. I say we do what ever it takes to reduce our dependence on foreign energy. George Washington warned that America should not make treaties and trade with ungodly nations. Perhaps the dead white man's words have come back to haunt us? Let's drill and produce our own oil now. The need to develop natural energy is now beyond URGENT, it's an EMERGENCY. Did you know you can now install a solar grid panel system on your home which could power your whole house, not just your water heater? You can also sell any extra unused electricity to the power company! How incredible is that? Let's give a tax incentive to all Americans who switch to this type of energy. Think about the reduction in pollution, energy saved, and money saved if this switch could be made in the next 10 years! Also, give me a hydrogen powered car than I can actually afford to buy - I'd be in the driver's seat in a heartbeat. Maybe a tax incentive to pay for one??

In summary I think most of our problems are rooted in apathy, ignorance, and spiritual sickness. We can't expect our government to solve all our problems. Solutions begin with self first.

Now that's all I have to say about politics. May God bless us with a man of character, integrity, compassion, and endurance as our new Pres. I'm also looking forward to posting some family photos and sharing some other things going on in our lives.

Enjoy your weekend!

GOD, POLITICS, and "ISSUES" PART 2

In a perfect world, there'd surely be no evil or worries and I'd sure get a lot more peace and sleep. But our reality is one of a constant battle between good and evil. I believe God is certainly good and is most pleased with goodness. For Christians, shouldn't our highest calling simply be pleasing our Creator? Isn't there a tremendous peace in living to please Him above all else?

How do such thoughts relate to the approaching election? If I didn't give a care about the future of our children, my fellow countrymen, and God, my voting decision would be a lot easier. I'd consider only my own needs and forget about everything else. But I do care and I feel a tremendous responsibility to make the best decision possible.

So here's my big "ISSUE" for this post. What about WAR? How does God feel about warring with one another? And should America's past involvement in wars affect how we vote? Does God endorse war? Does God use one nation to protect another nation through war? I am speaking mainly of military war here. I have to ask a lot of questions as I con tine this debate with myself.

You don't have to read the Old Testament long before coming to the victory stories where God lead the Israelites through some gruesome battle and countless lives were lost on the opposing side. I've always had a hard time understanding why "DO NOT MURDER" was on God's top 10 list and yet His "chosen" people were really good at making war. The explanation I was always given was basically those nations the Israelites wiped out were unclean anyway. Perhaps that is true - but I am sure Jesus' take on all the slaughtering would be different. You know, the speck of dust in the brother's eye, cast not the first stone, turn the other cheek? I am being humbly honest here, I just have a problem with this.

Then you can read all the history of wars in the past 100 year that America became involved in. What would have happened if nations refused to stop Hitler? He idolized Musolini and patterned his socialist ideas from him. Both Italy and German had become spiritually blind prior to turning socialist and through socialism - the Germans lost their freedom to a tyrant. Since Hitler believed in a MASTER RACE, he called for the killing off of weaker races -especially Jews. Since Germans so readily believed in evolution, they accepted Hitler's ideas. Soon public hospitals began to practice euthanasia and abortion. And tragically, between 1934-1945 over 6 MILLION JEWS were murdered!

America eventually helped Europe put an end to Hitler's reign of terror and to WWII. On Aug 6, 1945, the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima killing nearly 100,000 people. Another atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki 3 days later. President Truman believed using the bomb would result in LESS loss of life than if the war continued. In all over 60 MILLION casualties were estimated as a result of WWII. Millions more were wounded. Following WWII, many small countries relied on America to either liberate them from dictators or to protect these weaker countries from being invaded - Cuba, Guam, South Korea, Venezuela to name a few.

The most controversial war in my life-time is probably the War in Iraq. Saddam Hussein was supposedly responsible for over 2 million deaths of his own people and neighboring countrymen. I've read of the horrifying acts of terror he and those in his service would perform on the innocent. Regardless of how America feels about this war - Saddam was a tyrant.

So my questions in relation to war are these. Should Americans support war at all? Was America wrong to get involved in WWI? WWII? The War in Iraq? Does God expect stronger nations to protect the weaker ones against dictators and tyrants? Do you think He has ever used a nation to stop the suffering of another through war? Is war a necessary evil to prevent worse evils?

I'm sure my humble little post here won't solve anything. I'm mainly thinking' out loud and debating with myself. Feel free to chime in if it helps your thinking and decision process.

I am going to close with a quote from General MacArthur. He noted, "The problem of war and violence had, at its root, the spiritual failure of men, and their need for a spiritual rebirth."

GOD, POLITICS, and "ISSUES"

I must admit - I am losing sleep over the upcoming election. What would God have me do? I don't want to vote this time, but would God be disappointed with me if I didn't? Does my vote really matter? How does God expect me to go about choosing someone to vote for anyway? As a Christian, am I expected to vote differently than the majority as a whole? Is there a candidate who would measure up to our moral and social expectations - let alone God's?

The reason I'm losing sleep this go round is because there are several issues at stake which are breaking my heart. I can think of no higher compliment God gives humankind, than life itself, full of innocence. While I am thankful cruel partial birth abortions have been banned during the current administration's term, there is much work left for the incoming "team" where abortion is concerned.

Here is my first "politically" related post. There may or may not be more to come. It just depends on how much I am willing to reveal of myself. The following article best resonates my feelings on a touchy issue. Some would argue this issue should not be a pivotal one in any election. Others strongly disagree. I wonder how God would answer this "LETTER TO THE DEMOCRATS" by Father Jonathan Morris. I urge you to please read the article through. It is well worth your time. My heartfelt comment is at the end.

I watched your convention last week. As an independent, I want to share with you my concern for the direction of your Party and its role in preserving the health of our country. I should start by saying my Catholic grandparents called themselves Democrats, even if they couldn’t tell you why. I assumed their lingering loyalty to the Party was fruit of the warm welcome their ancestors received. As immigrants, they were the weak, and the Democrats gave them a home.

This sentimental attachment changed with my parents’ generation. There were a number of reasons, I’m sure, but the Democratic Party’s embrace of legal abortion on demand was the deal breaker that pushed my parents and most of their brothers and sisters to the other side of the aisle. For this new generation of Christian voters, the defense of life was a non-negotiable issue which flowed from their most basic understanding of God and his divine will.

As you know well, over the last twenty years, the Republican Party has taken full advantage of the abortion debate to style itself as the political home for religious and moral values, even though this is not always the case. But many religious Democrats, wittingly or not, have reveled so much in being anti-Republican, that they have hidden their religion under a basket and have dismissed the defense of the unborn as a Republican cause.

And the political polarity has grown and grown, with religion and abortion serving as the great divides.The more I have witnessed this, the more uncomfortable I have felt. In a two-party system such as ours, our country can’t afford to allow one party to have a monopoly on God. That’s why I couldn’t have been more delighted when I saw the plans for a religion-friendly Democratic convention where public prayer, religious belief, and alternative views on abortion (ever so slight, as they were) were to have a place at the table.

But then something happened that brought into question for me whether your Party was on the road to such inclusiveness. Just days before the convention, your presumptive nominee said it was beyond his pay-grade-scientifically or theologically-to know when babies get rights. Then your Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, said that as a fervent Catholic she too has struggled long and hard with the issue, but has now come to agree with a 4th century theologian’s take on human embryology, that pre-born things aren’t human babies (with the right to continue living) because of their supposed incapacity for sensation (St. Augustine’s antiquated argument).

Something very serious was happening. Two very smart people, at the highest levels of your Party, were pointing to science and theology as having something to say about the abortion debate. Yes, Senator Obama and Speaker Pelosi were saying that determining the physical and moral status of a human embryo actually matters. But strangely, Obama hasn’t cared enough to clear up his many doubts and Pelosi has decided to accept the view of an African theologian who lived 1,600 years ago.

Now, Democrats, I would argue the unique approach here by your new leadership of superficial scientific study will be detrimental to your goal of attracting more people of religious conviction. For 35 years, abortion rights in America have been about a woman’s Constitutional right to privacy. But not far beneath the surface of that argument was the scientific and moral assumption that the life in the womb was somehow less of a life than every other life, and so privacy, in this case, should win out. The law, of course, would never allow a woman to take the life of an infant in the privacy of her own home, because an infant’s life is real life, or so the argument would go.

But, warning, if you look seriously at science to re-examine abortion you may jeopardize your current platform and its short-term political force. For over 150 years scientists have known a new human individual comes into being from the union of sperm and egg at fertilization. That is not theology. It is not religion. It is not Republican. It is science.

If as a Party you pursue with Senator Obama and Speaker Pelosi some clarity about the status of the human embryo (a question they both consider important), you will eventually have to make a decision. You will either decide pre-born babies have rights because modern embryologists say they, too, are unique human individuals, or you will be forced to take the very hard line of saying some human individuals just don’t deserve human rights, for whatever sordid reason.

Planned Parenthood and NARAL will be watching. Their influence on last week’s convention is proof of their stranglehold on policy and candidates. At their bidding, the Democratic Party not only reaffirmed its total support of abortion on demand, but also made the new demand that a woman has a right to abortion, “regardless of her ability to pay,” meaning the government has an obligation to use tax dollars to fund it for her.

This old way of thinking of brushing aside the rights of the unborn because, “they aren’t really human humans,” in my opinion, will not stand the test of time because it is anti-science. There are simply too many pictures and videos of beautiful pre-born babies, reaching out their tiny hands or reacting to intruders.

Now is the time for you, rank and file Democrats, to take seriously the science and theology exams that Obama and Pelosi bombed last week. In the short-term, it will hurt — but don’t you agree our country will be much better off in a system where no single Party can claim to stand in for God in the defense of the weakest?
God bless,

Father Johnathan Morris

It breaks my heart that so many innocent lives are ended and those babies never have a chance to contribute to our society as God intended. Now if the Dem's have their way, my hard earned tax dollars will be used to fund abortions - To me that makes me a party to murder. What would God say to that I wonder? No wonder I can't sleep!

LAUNDRY STATS

Amy's laundry post inspired me to document and classify this week's laundry. I was a bit overwhelmed since I had not set foot in the laundry room for a week.

Time lapsed from start to finish - 36+ hours
Loads washed and dried - 12
Bathtowels - 27
Washcloths - 33
Placemats - 14
Napkins - 10
Slacks/Jeans -11
Pairs of Shorts - 26 pair
Shirts - 68
Undershirts 27
Underware - 36
Pairs of Socks - 27
Widowed socks - 4
Skirts/Skorts - 10
PJ's - 3 Swim Suits - 4
Dresses - 2
Bathmats -5
Blankets - 2
Piece of Green Paper - 1
Red Fair Ticket for Car Giveaway -1
Sheets - 2
Pillowcases - 4

Richard asked me if I had this broken down by person. I think I would need an accounting refresher course first! At least the family changes underware regularly and probably has on a clean shirt most of the time!

I've decided that the person who creates the most dirty laundry should do laundry from now on!

IT'S RED!

It's Official
It's #16 of Top 50 To Do Before I Die
It's RED!

DAVID COOK and LOVE!

Earlier this month Richard and I celebrated our 22nd Wedding Anniversary. Richard surprised me with tickets to the IDOLS TOUR concert at the RUPP ARENA in Lexington KY. This past Saturday morning we left early and headed north without the kids. We stopped in Shakertown on the way to/from Lexington. Here is a shot of David Cook singing at the Rupp Arena in Lexington. For the record, he sang a total of 5 songs, using 3 different guitars. And yes, he even played the white one his father gave him on his 21st birthday.

My favorite song David sang was MY HERO dedicated to his brother Adam. This link will take you to the performance at the RUPP.

I am so blessed to be married to such a sweet heart. Richard was the first person to ever tell me, "I Love You." He loved me first and I've never wanted to be apart from him since. Thanks Hun for loving me, for being my source of strength through all the tough times, and for sharing all these years with me. I hope we have many more together.

Prayers for Joshua

Here's my cute little nephew Joshua. Isn't he adorable? He inherited my mother's big baby blue Armstrong eyes. It's hard to say no to this sweetie.

Joshua weighed a little more than 2 pounds at birth and stayed in the NICU for about a month. The nurses nick- named him Mighty Mouse. He's always been little, but he is mighty in wit, will, and strength.

Over the past year the Dr and family have been concerned about Joshua's growth - or lack of. After some serious testing, the family received confirmation yesterday that Joshua's body is producing hardly any growth hormones. He will probably start growth hormone shots soon and will need to continue these for several years.

I just wanted to share this cute picture of Joshua and ask for special prayers for him. Please pray that his upcoming MRI will be normal and he won't be too traumatized by the many years of injections his parents will be asked to administer.

I know the Lord has special plans for this child.