A Birl..a Goy...a Shim

Apparently, it isn't that easy to tell these days.

An Indian runner who won a silver medal in the women's 800-meter run at the Asian Games earlier this month has failed a gender test and is likely to be stripped of her medal.

Read the whole thing here.

Quote of the Day

In honor of a friend's long awaited remodeling project being completed, I submit the following:

An ounce of performance is worth pounds of promises.
Mae West

I can totally relate. When Dadathon was finishing our master bath repair (which turned into a remodel, 'cuz wow, that's a heckuva leak!) I had had enough. By the end, my favorite color had become FINISHED. As in: whatever is in stock and ready to be installed within 24 hours.

Sheesh...

When trying to update a previous post, I got this message about why the update failed:

001 java.net.ConnectException: Connection refusedblog/47/40/9/momathon/2006/09/would-someone-please-take-mic-away.html

What do you suppose that means? I can't imagine that anyone is actually reading my blog, (since I generally have no comments whatsoever) and having that much of an issue with anything I say. So, I think my vote is for some sort of spamming game someone is trying to pull. What's your vote?

Worth the Wait

 


UPDATE: a better description of our night can be found here.

It took nearly a year, and many ups and downs before we were finally able to go to this concert as planned, but U2 was well worth it. If you ever get an opportunity to see them live, you should do it. It was all the better that we were able to celebrate the wedding anniversary of our dear friends, and share in their fun that night, too.

It was really something to see rock stars aching by the suffering in the world. (Generally, I don't think of rock stars when I think of those with great compassion toward others.) It couldn't be easy to address such a serious subject in a rock concert without facing an avalanche of criticism, so kudos to them to have even made the attempt.

Rock on brothers. 

For a Chuckle

Robert Gates' 3 step plan for Iraq from Scrappleface:

“Finally,” he added, “Shiite Muslim cleric Moktada al-Sadr, whose Mahdi Army numbers in the tens of thousands, will be captured, beheaded and buried with 72 virgin hogs at a pig farm in Israel. The video will be posted at YouTube.com.”

That's the best of it, in my opion, but you can read the whole thing here.

The Song My Heart is Singing Today

In the past 24 hours, I have had news on each and every one of these topics. My heart is indeed crying out today. If you get a chance to listen to it, please do. You'll love it.

Cry Out To Jesus
Words by Mac Powell / Music by Third Day

To everyone who's lost someone they love
Long before it was their time
You feel like the days you had were not enough
when you said goodbye

And to all of the people with burdens and pains
Keeping you back from your life
You believe that there's nothing and there is no one
Who can make it right

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus

For the marriage that's struggling just to hang on
They lost all of their faith in love
They've done all they can to make it right again
Still it's not enough

For the ones who can't break the addictions and chains
You try to give up but you come back again
Just remember that you're not alone in your shame
And your suffering

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus

When you're lonely
And it feels like the whole world is falling on you
You just reach out, you just cry out to Jesus
Cry to Jesus

To the widow who struggles with being alone
Wiping the tears from her eyes
For the children around the world without a home
Say a prayer tonight

There is hope for the helpless
Rest for the weary
Love for the broken heart
There is grace and forgiveness
Mercy and healing
He'll meet you wherever you are
Cry out to Jesus, Cry out to Jesus
(c) 2005 Consuming Fire Music / ASCAP. All rights administered by EMI
CMG Publishing. All rights reserved. Used by permission.

You Know You're Losing Your Mind When...

You are talking to your printer, and asking it if it smokes crack.


Apparently, it is indeed time for The Annual Homeschool Moms Limo Night.
This is an afternoon and evening where the moms in our little homeschool group cruise in a limo, do some shopping, and end at Mariposa for dinner. All courtesy of one of the husbands, who take turns picking up the tab for the limo.

You Can't Fix Stupid

I know I have stolen that line form that comedian dude(I have never actually heard his routine...gotta put that on my to-do list).

Last night, my children were moderately concerned because they had "heard there would be an earthquake at midnight!" Though I tried to assuage any fears, they weren't convinced. I told them that no one can predict earthquakes, but they just didn't seem entirely relieved. I can hardly blame them. The rumor had the kid version of empirical evidence backing it up: 1)They "heard" it from more than one friend, and 2)It was to occur at the magical hour of midnight. Everyone knows that rumors of things to occur at midnight are for real.

I thought it was all a bit cute if not silly. That was, until a friend clued me in to this:

A hoax about a pending earthquake and tsunami triggered a storm of calls yesterday to civil defense, police and news organizations, and sent hundreds of Leeward O'ahu residents rushing for gas and supplies.

State officials said they received 500 to 600 calls from residents from 4 to 6 p.m.

Spokesman John Cummings said O'ahu Civil Defense took hundreds of calls and he even answered one from a relative on Maui. O'ahu's 911 system was bombarded by hundreds of inquiries, according to police, and geophysicists Brian Shiro and Victor Sardina answered about 200 calls from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in 'Ewa Beach.

The inquiries varied but the concern was spurred by fast-spreading talk of a magnitude 9-plus earthquake that supposedly was to occur on the Big Island sometime between midnight and tomorrow morning, which would cause a large tsunami.

You can read the whole thing here. My favorite part of the article is this:

When told that no one can predict an earthquake (emphasis mine), Chuck Jones said, "Better safe than sorry, that's my way of looking at it. I heard there was a possible tsunami so I'd figured I'd fill up with gas and pick up my dad in Nanakuli in the low-lying areas. I'm just going to take him up to my house (at a higher elevation)."

Well, Chuck is right about one thing: it is indeed better to be safe than sorry.
Unfortunately it is also better to be informed than lead by a ridiculous rumor.

I'm A Bit Surprised

What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm You're probably in the final stages of a Ph.D. or otherwise finding a way to make your living out of reading. You are one of the literati. Other people's grammatical mistakes make you insane.
Dedicated Reader
Book Snob
Literate Good Citizen
Fad Reader
Non-Reader
What Kind of Reader Are You? Create Your Own Quiz

(Hat tip:PalmtreePundit)

Thanksgiving

Among the many things for which I am ever so grateful, my husband really tops the list. I scored in this department. As persons go, he is pretty grand, and as husbands go, I think he is in a class by himself. Mostly, I think I love him because he really loves me.

The occasionally tortured existence of one who lives far from their "family of origin" brings a bit of the blues during holidays. For me it's the ache that they're together enjoying old memories, making new ones, and I'm not a part of it. My husband has a special knack to be extra considerate during these times. And believe me, for this man to be extra considerate takes some doing, as he is generally very thoughtful.

This Thanksgiving, however, he topped himself bigtime. He woke up at 4:15 AM--on a day he could have slept in--and our family went on a hike to watch the sun rise on the ocean. We packed a picnic breakfast and did exactly what I wanted to do to kick off turkey day. And save for one short stint of whining by Boy-A-Thon, it was perfect.

Enjoy the sights. Because, if seeing this incredible creation that God has given us to enjoy doesn't make you thankful, well, then nothing will.

Have a great holiday, and hug you family tight.

My New Favorite Site

For a news junkie like me, this is great. I wish the European sites were included, though. Just never satisfied, I suppose.

Cure Alls

Put your echinacea away, and forget the vitamin C. Veganism and sex are the cures of what ails our society. I am so glad to be set straight on that, because, quite frankly, I never would have guessed those.
According to an op-ed piece in the Star-Bulletin , you need to

"Educate yourself about the issues. And realize that the single most important thing you as an individual can do to address the huge problems facing our world is to become a vegan."

That's right folks; a vegan. In the article, the author, Honolulu resident Pamela Davis states that

"There also is a direct relationship between what we eat -- a pig, for example -- and such things as war, disease, world hunger, environmental destruction (think global warming) and other societal problems. It is a complex web that too few people have bothered to explore and try to understand. Essentially, the killing of animals is an accepted aspect of our society, reinforcing our belief that we are superior to all other creatures. This misguided attitude can result in violence perpetrated on animals and humans alike."

I confess that I am one of those lazy fools who hasn't bothered to untangle the web of eating pigs, war, and global warming. Sorry about that. I've been busy grilling porkchops that I brought home in my SUV. On the plus side, though, this article gives me a nifty little paragraph to use for correcting work today in two subjects in school : Grammar and Logic. Thank you Ms. Davis, I really needed a two-for-one today!
If veganism doesn't fix the world, surely a Global Orgasm for Peace will do the trick (hat tip:PalmPilot).

The Global Orgasm for Peace was conceived by Donna Sheehan, 76, and Paul Reffell, 55, whose immodest goal is for everyone in the world to have an orgasm Dec. 22 while focusing on world peace.

But wait! Aside from the monumental challenge to coordinate the timing of a global orgasm, could this not contribute to global warming?

The Parenting Police

Apparently the greatest threat to British children growing into good citizens is a lack of nursery rhymes. Wow. I was way off. I was thinking more in the neighborhood of teenage abortion without parental consent, forced sensitivity training for kids in public schools, sex, drug and alcohol use, and stuff like that. Just goes to show you how clueless I am.

Fear not, Great Britain, the government is here to save the day...whether you wnat to be saved or not.

Those who fail to read stories or sing to their youngsters threaten their children's future and the state must put them right, Children's Minister Beverley Hughes said.

Please do read the whole thing. You wouldn't believe it if I told you.
Most assuredly we can count on the elightened left to follow with their own version of state mandated saving of the children. That is, unless the UN beats 'em to it, and we are all at the mercy of Kofi And The Cupcakes.

Can You Guess The Date of This News?

The President, having never served in the military himself, is criticized as an ignorant "hick". His administration is called "blundering...and inefficient". The president is accused of causing a senseless death toll to mount, in a useless war of his own creation.

Former generals, having retired, publicly criticize the president and his leadership in the war.

The president enacts laws independent of the legislature which allow the arrest and imprisonment without a trial of those thought to be a threat to the nation.

Democrats demand an immediate withdrawal of American troops, believing that it will result in an end to the war.

Republicans accuse the Democrats of disloyalty, aiding the enemy, and undermining the war effort.

These news tidbits are from 1863, about President Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. I guess there really is nothing new under the sun.

Scrappleface

You gotta read this for a chuckle.

Facing the Giants

I composed a great post on this film shortly after we took the kids to see it. Unfortunately, Blogger crashed and it is forever gone. (Note to self: save posts in a publisher doc while composing.)

Anyway, the film is great. It makes no bones about what it is about or why it was created. Its aim is to introduce "real" Christian faith to the larger movie going audience. It does a good job of that, and the cheese factor--usually oozing out of such attempts--is little to none (can I hear an "AMEN"?)

Now for the irony: the MPAA gave the film a PG rating due to "strong thematic elements". What were these elements, you may wonder? Why, prayer, of course. With such a clear and in your face show of not just one, but many prayers the MPAA felt it was important to recommend that parents guide their children through these "strong themes". Here is what the MPAA's website says about the PG rating in general:

This is a film which clearly needs to be examined by parents before they let their children attend. The label PG plainly states parents may consider some material unsuitable for their children, but leaves the parent to make the decision. Parents are warned against sending their children, unseen and without inquiry, to PG-rated movies. The theme of a PG-rated film may itself call for parental guidance. There may be some profanity in these films. There may be some violence or brief nudity. However, these elements are not considered so intense as to require that parents be strongly cautioned beyond the suggestion of parental guidance. There is no drug use content in a PG-rated film. The PG rating, suggesting parental guidance, is thus an alert for examination of a film by parents before deciding on its viewing by their children. Obviously such a line is difficult to draw. In our pluralistic society it is not easy to make judgments without incurring some disagreement. As long as parents know they must exercise parental responsibility, the rating serves as a meaningful guide and as a warning.

Right..."our pluralistic society". Now, I do fancy myself a bit of a grammar geek, so I may be splitting hairs, but it seems to me that plural means more than one. And lately, I get a real sense that the one thing that is not included in the plural club is Christianity. However, prayer is in the same group with nudity, profanity, and violence.

Um...OK. Pardon me, while I evacuate from this nonsense. If you need me, I'll be hanging off the edge of the culture.

Sin Sucks

Yes, I realize I am slow to arrive at the party of this reality; however, this truth has really been haunting me lately. The impact of sin is so vast and destructive to many people, not just the sinner. Full consideriation of this truth can be overwhleming, because we are all sinners. So my sin affects everyone around and in relationship with me, which affects everyone around and in relationship with them, and...well, you get the idea. So lately it is this vast impact of sin that has gotten me really frustrated. I see it in myself, and I feel it from those whom I know. It hurts me when I know people are ignoring their children's cries for help. My heart aches for the wife whose husband works incessantly, neglecting her and their kids' daily needs of love and attention. And, I figure, if these things cause me to hurt and cry out to Jesus, what must it be like for those who are actually enduring it, firsthand? Ugh. Thus the title of this post.
Paul gets it right in Romans 7:14-21:

14We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. 16And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. 17As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. 18I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.[c] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. 19For what I do is not the good I want to do; no, the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing. 20Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.

21So I find this law at work: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me. 22For in my inner being I delight in God's law; 23but I see another law at work in the members of my body, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within my members. 24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God—through Jesus Christ our Lord!
So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God's law, but in the sinful nature a slave to the law of sin.

So, it begins with me. I have to realize the responsibility I bear when I sin and send out those ripples of hurt to others.

And this is only considering the effects of sin on a horizontal plane. Looking up, I must face that most importantly, sin grieves the Father, who loves so much.

Quote of the Day

Hmm...I think Jefferson would be a bit disappointed with us these days:

"I consider the government of the U.S. as interdicted by the Constitution from intermeddling with religious institutions, their doctrines, discipline, or exercises."

-- Thomas Jefferson (letter to Samuel Miller, 23 January 1809)

Reference: Jefferson Writings, Peterson, ed., 1186.

At Least I Have a Brain!

You Are 45% Left Brained, 55% Right Brained

The left side of your brain controls verbal ability, attention to detail, and reasoning. Left brained people are good at communication and persuading others. If you're left brained, you are likely good at math and logic. Your left brain prefers dogs, reading, and quiet. The right side of your brain is all about creativity and flexibility. Daring and intuitive, right brained people see the world in their unique way. If you're right brained, you likely have a talent for creative writing and art. Your right brain prefers day dreaming, philosophy, and sports.

Are You Right or Left Brained?

This was fun. Hat tip: Palmtreepundit

Happy Feet Pushes Flu Meds

Yesterday, I was lying in bed trying to recover from truly miserable neck and back pain. (By the way, I have total understanding for anyone who is addicted to pain meds.) This left me able to do some reading, though that began to exacerbate the pain. Finally, I gave in, and watched a bit of TV. This is always a mistake for me, because I am so critical of the tube. This time was no exception. I saw what I thought would be a trailer for the movie "Happy Feet". However, it was instead, a commercial for antiviral flu meds. You've got to give kudos to the ad agency--very clever, indeed. I mean I would have thought that all possible avenues for cramming advertisements into our lives had been taken. However, advertisers always seem able to find a new wall to spraypaint, so to speak. And better yet, they found a way to get the children to do a word of mouth campaign for them.
Fear not, if you have't yet seen this partnership between the children's film and the flu med manufacutrer, you will. This, from the RocheUSA website:

Full page print ads will appear in national magazines including Fitness, Family Circle, O, Martha Stewart Living, and others. There will be on-line advertising on sites such as www.ivillage.com. Roche is extending the campaign to airports and movie theatres.

The Perfect Reply

John Kerry is an elitist idiot.

You Can't Make This Stuff Up

There is a candidate running for the Board of Education here named Kim Coco Iwamoto. Kim is, hmm, how shall I put it? Well, Kim is a birl...or a goy. The lengthy version is: a transgendered male living life as a female.

It is unclear exactly why (Ms.?...Mr.?) Iwamoto is interested in the BOE. S/he has no children of his/her own. S/he is not a teacher. The only logical assumption to make would be based on (aha! I've got it! "Candidate") the candidate's previous discussions--if any--on education. So far, I cannot find any. What I can find,however, is a little history from the candidate's alma mater (latin students will love that irony). Here, one finds the candidate has a history of seeking to unify restroom facilities. By unify, I mean make all restrooms available to any gender (or confused state of gender) of any person.

To be fair, I must make full disclosure on this subject: Once, in a pinch, I did indeed use a vacant men's restroom when the women's room was fully occupied. A friend stood guard at the door and did not allow any men to enter. Additionally, being from Wyoming, and driving for long stretches in the great wide open, I have also "marked" a sagebrush or two as a small child.

Seriously, what is the state of plain reasoning in people when a person with these motives can make it past a primary election and be put on a ballot to potentially be elected? To the Board of Education?

To Clarify...

"The constitutions of most of our States assert that all power is inherent in the people; that they may exercise it by themselves in all cases to which they think themselves competent, or they may act by representatives, freely and equally chosen; that it is their right and duty to be at all times armed; that they are entitled to freedom of person, freedom of religion, freedom of property, and freedom of the press." (emphasis mine)

-- Thomas Jefferson (letter to John Cartwright, 1824)

Reference: The Writings of Thomas Jefferson, Lipscomb and Bergh, eds., 16:45.

Quote of the day

"Cherish, therefore, the spirit of our people, and keep alive their attention. Do not be too severe upon their errors, but reclaim them by enlightening them. If once they become inattentive to the public affairs, you and I, and Congress, and Assemblies, Judges, and Governors, shall all become wolves."

-- Thomas Jefferson (letter to Edward Carrington, 16 January 1787)

"The God of Wind, The God of Earth, The God of Whatnot"

That is a funny quote from my friend Irmgard, as she told me the details of a fictional book she's been reading.

I have had the distinct pleasure of visiting with this older woman for the past two days. She is really amazing. As a young teenage girl she fled East Prussia (now Germany) when the Russians invaded. The stories she has to tell of her survival are truly incredible, and they are made even more awesome by her gift of telling them. Her great memory and creativity make the stories come to life. It is my deep regret that I thought of recording these stories after the fact. History is fascinating to me, and to hear first hand accounts told so well, has been a real treat. God bless you, Irmgard.

Like Pulling Teeth

Really, just like it.
Yesterday was spent getting Girlie to the oral surgeon. Her little person teeth just didn't want to go. She hadn't lost a tooth in four years. I guess that was a big clue for the dentist. (It sure seemed to fly right over my radar as anything to worry about.) The other was the X-rays that showed very long roots and adult teeth waiting way up high to descend. The only teeth that had any roots dissolved were the two for which there are no adult replacements. Ironic.

It's as though the teeth were staging some sort of passive resistance protest. "We won't do what we are supposed to do! You can't make us!"

Alas, as should be the fate of all protesters against the good and reasonable, they were drugged and removed.

The Culprits

Surprised? I was, too. Seriously--how could those possibly be in there?

Too Believable

Scrappleface's jest on a study of the relationship of math scores and self-esteem is far too believable. He needs to make up something they wouldn't actually say at the NEA. Here's a taste:

“It just doesn’t add up,” said an unnamed NEA spokesman. “We’ve spent three decades of the last 20 years teaching kids that their self-esteem and happiness are unrelated to their academic competence. The overwhelming minority of them now feel really happy about math.”

Read the whole thing for a chuckle (or a heavy sigh).

Re-Calibrated

After much complaining about the electric bill, and questioning just why it is we live here, I was reminded. Yesterday we went to church. I need to be re-calibrated every week as to what exactly matters in this life and what does not. It matters that we are in fellowship with other believers. It matters that my eyes are focused on the One who truly satisfies, and not the things of this world. And it matters that I stop and look at just how good my life is.

Further, the reason we live here is that our little church is really a special place. The people there have truly become our family. And though I may be able to live a thoroughly more comfortable life somewhere else, I can't bear the thought of living it without these special brothers and sisters in Christ.

Yes, it can be very challenging to live here in Hawaii. But as an old friend once said, when I foolishly called her to complain about my life's challenges, "Effing Waa!"

COL Rant

The Cost Of Living in Hawaii is insane. I know this. I have lived here long enough to have the shock factor become dulled. HOWEVER, there are some shockers that are so psychotic they pierce my calloused sensibilities.

Case in point: Electricity.
We have lots of gadgets and doo-hickeys at our house--let's just say it is fun here. Many of these goodies are powerd by electricity. It's kind of interesting to be reminded about that when, say, there is an earthquake, and the electricity is out for a day. It is an entirely different kind of interesting, though, when you open up the elctric bill, only to discover that it is THREE TIMES ITS NORMAL COST. Apparently, the folks at HECo have a magic math formula they use to charge for electriciy. You see, once you use more than X amount of electricity (a predetermined average of what they believe a houseshold should use) you get charged an extra amount per kilowatt hour. I'm going to call it the EF* factor.

Well, I almost feel better. I have to go unplug everything and turn out the lights.

*:Electric Faloha--not a dance or a cocktail.

Been At Play

Posts have been sparse due to some difficulties with Blogger photo uploads and a fun few days in Kona. Luckily for us, we returned the day before the quake.

We had R&R,good food, and laughed and had a great time. Just what the family needed.
We drove to a lookout that now has a big crack down its road. Very glad we weren't standing at the edge where this photo was taken when the earthquake hit. I think we would have tumbled down the cliffside. Here are before and after shots. The lone coco palm in both photos is the same tree. We parked right where the crack begins in the photo.

Can you guess where the last picture was taken? It's not "back home" in Wyoming. It is at the ranch where we rode horses in North Kohala, on the Big Island. I love this photo.
I really miss wide open spaces...

John Piper

The Palmtree Pundit has some great encouragement for us all--no matter what you do.

That John Piper has some amazing insights, I'll tell you. Make it a habit to check him out

Have a great Sunday, and a great week. The whole -athon gang is heading for a week of respite from the day to day. Be well, and God bless.

Quote of the Day

"It ought to be commemorated, as the Day of Deliverance by solemn Acts of Devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more. You will think me transported with Enthusiasm but I am not. I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost Us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the Gloom I can see the Rays of ravishing Light and Glory. I can see that the End is more than worth all the Means. And that Posterity will tryumph in that Days Transaction, even altho We should rue it, which I trust in God We shall not."

-- John Adams (letter to Abigail Adams, 3 July 1776)

Reference: Our Sacred Honor, Bennett (64)

What would our country look like if we still had leaders like this man today? (Big sigh.)

No Matter Where You Go...

...there you are. And sin is there with you.



In July a friend and I went to Lancaster, PA for teacher training. While there, we visited Amish country, and had our own lesson that sin is within man, not "out there in the big, bad world." How very sad for that community. PalmtreePundit has some good points on her post about this tragedy

Quote of the Day

"No people will tamely surrender their Liberties, nor can any be easily subdued, when knowledge is diffusd and Virtue is preservd. On the Contrary, when People are universally ignorant, and debauchd in their Manners, they will sink under their own weight without the Aid of foreign Invaders."
-- Samuel Adams (letter to James Warren, 4 November 1775)
Reference: Our Sacred Honor, Bennett (261)

How very true that statement is! It is one of the plethora of reasons I am such a fan of classical education.

Creative Problem Solving

Much Like Hell, I Think

That would describe this afternoon from 1-2PM for me.
I was at the dentist. (Normally a very pleasant experience. I love to get my teeth cleaned. I would go once a week if I could afford it. It's that slickery feeling on the teeth afterward!) This time, though, they did "periodontal mapping". In a word: painful. They poke the gums around each tooth--front and back--from 3-4 times with the sharp pokey thing. Supposedly it is to check for infection/bacteria under the gums. I think it is to punish those of us who do not floss twice a day.

Anyway, as if that weren't enough, I had to field questions while there were hands and tools in my mouth. Not just any ol' questions...homeschooling questions. And not all were garden variety, either. Oh sure, there were the "What/Where/How do you find curriculums [sic]?" questions. But those are easy, and I actually can answer those with my mouth full of hands and pokey things. The ones that bug me, though, are the ones that presume supreme authority of the government over my children. This is the one stuck in my craw tonight, "How do you meet your P.E. requirement?"

Where to begin? How about: the plural of curriculum is curricula. Then, I could bring up the idea that P.E. isn't actually an educational issue. Or I could start with the radical idea that the responsibility to educate my kids lies solely with me, and not a government institution. Oh, the myriad possibilities.

I opted to just smile and nod.

'Twas Hubris Killed the Cake

If I had a brain, there would be a picture of the cake as it lay there in its death. Split into thirds, and oozing over itself, straining through the cooling rack, and onto the counter. Alas, I did not capture its demise.

The backstory has two parts.
Part one: I was making a cake for a friend's birthday today. I was doing this before my Weight Watchers meeting at 7:15AM. I had it all figured out. The cake would be made, dishes done, kitchen cleaned--everything perfectimundo--before I left for WW.

Part two: Our Wednesday morning bible study is going through the book Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World. This past Wednesday's study invovled an inventory of the self, a sort of check to see how much of a Martha you may be. We were to read the given statements and see if they applied to our thoughts. Included was the statement, "There should not be any limits to what I can do."

Now, being me, and having been reared to believe I am capable of accomplishing anything in my sights, I had a little problem thinking that statement was really an issue for me. Because, you see, there actually shouldn't be any limits to what I can do. Oh yes, I know the author intended to sniff out those wacky Martha types (of which I have nearly fully recovered--I mean you oughtta just see some of the things I don't even mention as irritating these days!) But, really, there are those of us who are quite competent, amazing, and well, lots of other great adjectives that I can't think of right now!

(You can probably see what's coming. I know the hindsight is truly 20/20 for me.)

On my way to put the finished cake (dishes done, kitchen sparkling) into the fridge, the thought crossed my mind (I probably even smirked), "There really is no limit to what I can do. At that very moment a drop of creme filling hit the floor. (I didn't notice it at the time, but it was part of the evidence I later cleaned up.) With the next three steps, I simultaneously opened the fridge door, balanced the cake and began to place it on the shelf inside. And then it began. The cake cracked into beautiful--almost perfictimundo--thirds. The thirds began to slide off the top and onto my arm. I screamd. The children came running. "What's the matter, mom?!?"
"The cake is dying before my very eyes!!"

And that, my friends, is how hubris killed the cake.

UPDATE In case you are unfamiliar:

At the Home of Martha and Mary

38As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. 39She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. 40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"
41"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, 42but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Luke 10:38-42 (New International Version)

Plain and Simple

From Wikipedia:
Occam's razor states that the explanation of any phenomenon should make as few assumptions as possible, eliminating, or "shaving off," those that make no difference in the observable predictions of the explanatory hypothesis or theory. In short, when given two equally valid explanations for a phenomenon, one should embrace the less complicated formulation. The principle is often expressed in Latin as the lex parsimoniae (law of succinctness).

I like that. Maybe it's because I am a Little Brain, or maybe I am a simple minded hick. Whatever the case, Occam's razor seems to slip nicely in line with the law of conservation of matter and all the other goodies that rule our universe. Occam's razor is what I thought of when I read this by Michael Novak:

Our enemies understand media campaigns, which have a high priority in their strategic plans, and they know the weaknesses and sentimentalities of our society, and how to turn them against our own leadership. They play critics of the war like violins. The only way they can win is through psychological warfare, by way of the media. (Why is the only story out of Iraq each day a bombing that kills six, when there are more murders than that each night in a group of a half-dozen cities or so in the U.S.? Our enemies count on that. They want the drip, drip, drip of American blood, because they think we do not have the moral toughness to stand it.)

Please do read the whole thing.

Goofy Definitions

Thanks to Anne I am to be known as:

Jeanne -- [noun]: A beat poet working the streets 'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Or

Momathon -- [noun]: A person who is a master of making ravioli 'How will you be defined in the dictionary?' at QuizGalaxy.com

You can try it here.

What a Bunch of Nasties

So, I found myself Googling the Duggar family this evening. It seems a guy I grew up with has a life similar to theirs in terms of beliefs, birth control, and whatever else that particular group of folks is into. Seeing as how I grew up with this guy, I am quite curious to learn just what can cause the ol' pendulum to swing so far from one end of the spectrum to the other in a few short years.

Well, at the Discovery Health channel site for the family, there is a forum to ask questions, and make comments on the Duggar family. I only hope the Duggar family kids aren't reading any of those posts, because not many are very nice at all. Serious judgement and nastiness toward this family is the norm. There are also a few snide comments from those I assume are defending Christianity in general, but the Duggar flavor of it, in particular.

Quite frankly, I was surprised. There are entire discussions going on about the obvious (number of kids, being wacko Christians, etc.) and the not so obvious (kids helping to build the house takes jobs away from the construction industry!) I am baffled that there is so much interest in telling this family that they are wrong. Where are the Diversity Police for the Duggars? ;-)

If you get a chance, check it out and let me know what you think.

The Cat Understands

Or maybe I understand the cat. Either way, it looks like Sam-I-Am and I are on the same page after this very long, hard week.

Would Someone Please Take the Mic Away?

As I was commenting on the PalmtreePundit's blog, I realized, I have a lot more to say.
Basically, I want the ignorant people to stop talking. Or at least, to stop having a national venue in which to demonstrate their incredible levels of ignorance.
It's not that anyone who doesn't agree with me is stupid--though I might actually believe that somewhere inside--but when disagreement with me is based on utter stupidity, I simply want to scream: "Please* shut up!"

Lately, this applies to Rosie O'Donnell and her comparison of radical Islam and radical Chrisitanity as equals in terms of danger to our nation. (See the video here.) Now this is clearly not true, and shouldn't bother me at all. However, that statement says so much more than its face value. She is not simply wrong, she is incredibly ignorant. Because, boys and girls, the mere fact that a lesbian woman is even alive to say such a thing demonstrates the huge chasm between Islamic fascists, and even the wackiest of Christians. Christianity teaches love for Ms. O'Donnell and condemns her sinful lifestyle ; it doesn't sanction her murder.

*Philippians 1:6
being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

Try This For Fun (or Humiliation)

This is an online version of questions from the test to become a naturalized citizen of the US. It's fun and a good thing to do with your kids :-)

Side by Side of The path to 9/11

Here's a link I had heard about and wanted to see. If you are so inclined, here it is for you.

I'm Just Curious...

Why do you suppose that we only like our own version of the truth?
(I am thinking of this in terms of child rearing, and family life, today.)

Like many of you, I suppose, I am frequently asked how I get my children to behave pleasantly, with good manners, obediently, respectfully, etc. Once I get over the thrill that someone is actually using those words to describe my children (who can also be selfish, disobedient, and ill mannered), I tell them the truth: We use biblical princicples.

Now, this is almost never well received. At best, it is met with the non believer's combo: a slight tilt of the head, closed mouth grin, "How cute" expression. Somewhere in the middle is, "That just wouldn't work at my house." At worst it is met with a "Well, that works because you have good kids." (Point of fact: I have sinful kids.)

Now, I know the bible is offensive to many just for being the bible. However, I can't help but think that if my response had been, "We roll them in peanut butter, light a candle, and chant 'butterflies are pretty' every day at 6 AM, that those folks would be leaving skidmarks to get to Costco for peanut butter.

So I am wondering, why is it that when we don't like the truth, we readily accept any other answer, no matter how ridiculous?

UPDATE: I thumbed through that offensive Book and found this:

Romans 1:25 (New International Version)
25They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen.

Go figure, God even addresses our delusional tendencies ;-)

Removes Chemicals, Odors and Cysts

That's what it says on the box for my replacement filter for the fridge water system.

Geez. I never even knew there could be cysts in my water. Well, my handy new GE SmartWater filter will save me from it all. And you know, until I just typed that, I had no idea I had been drinking Stupid Water all this time! Good grief, I hope my family has been saved in the nick of time. I can hear it now:

"Yes, doctor. I understand. Cysts? No! Not cysts! Well, yes, we were drinking Stupid Water. But I didn't know, I tell ya, I just didn't know!"

9/11

Here are a few places to visit for clarity:
Michelle Malkin
Burt Prelutsky
Doug Giles (He's obnoxious, can be funny, and right.)

The Clintons seem to only hate censorship when the truth hurts them. Bubba and the gang have sent the following to ABC about that little story based on the 9/11 Commission report. (The Commission, by the way, was a nonpartisan group of folks who were charged with the fun job of finding out what actually happened to us on that dreadful day.)

“The content of this drama is factually and incontrovertibly inaccurate and
ABC has the duty to fully correct all errors or pull the drama entirely.” In
the Washington Post, former secretary of state Madeleine Albright described
one scene as “false and defamatory” and former national-security adviser Sandy
Berger — last seen trying to sneak classified documents out of the National Archives— said the show “flagrantly misrepresents my personal actions.”

And, in case you were just sick enough to feel gross, but can't quite vomit, this is better than sticking your finger down your throat:

From the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle newspaper:

At the Briarwood and Seneca elementary schools in West Irondequoit,
morning announcements will ask students to remember the heroes such as police
officers and firefighters and other people in the community who are there to
help in a crisis.
But one thing educators in those schools won't do this Patriot's Day — the fifth anniversary of the day terrorist hijackers crashed airplanes into the World Trade Center's twin towers, the Pentagon and a field in Shanksville, Pa. — is talk extensively about the events of Sept. 11, 2001.
"We don't have any formalized instruction about Sept. 11," said David Bills, principal of Briarwood and Seneca, both kindergarten-through-third-grade schools. "And that's consistent with what we did when Sept. 11 happened. We decided it was not developmentally appropriate for it to be an instructional moment (empahsis mine). At that time, we addressed any concerns the kids had as they arose, and we are still positioned to do that."
Only five years in the past, the events of Sept. 11 aren't yet in many history books, except possibly some of the newer high school texts, said Deborah Ryan Johnson, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction in Rush-Henrietta.

If you must, the whole thing is here.

Well, time to start the day with the kiddos. I think we'll actually talk about 9/11 today in our school. Go figure.

UPDATE: Commander Salamander has just what I was looking for. And I agree, Commander, we need to see it agin, and again, and again, as we are so quick to forget what it reallywas that happened to those innocent Americans that day.

It's Been a While

I have had plenty to say, just a shortage of time, and clean words to express myself :-)
Here's a good thought for the day, though:

Some people are like slinkies. They have no real purpose, But they really bring you a smile When you push them down the stairs.

I love that.

On to more important things...it has been five years since 9/11. I wonder what we have really leanred since then. I spent last night watching ABC's take on the 9/11 commission report. I am baffled at the things those psycho thugs were doing, leading up to the big day in NYC. If you haven't begun to watch it, catch the second half tonight. But be sure to find a recording of the first half--it will surprise you, I'm sure.

Shake it, Baby

Living next to people with Harley-Davidson choppers means you hear rolling thunderous sounds pretty frequently. This time, though, it was the sound of rumbling earth. For you visual learners like me, here's something kind of nifty to see.

UPDATE: We realize now that Sam-I-Am (the cat) had known the trembler was coming. About an hour before we shook, he was meowing and caterwauling. Psychic Kitty? You be the judge.

Study your Vocabulary Words, Girls and Boys

This is from a while ago, but everyone should be sure to see it.

Duh

I really shouldn't use that title. Surely I'll want to use it again. I could follow the lead of the other non-creative people (clustered in Hollywood studios) and go with Duh 2, Duh 3, etc. Hmm...we'll see how it goes.

This Duh Moment (should we call them DMs for short? Better than BMs, I suppose.) is brought to you by the realization that training is important in your job. This shouldn't really be a newsflash, but it occurred to me this morning in the shower (where all of my deep thinking occurs). Part of my lower stress homeschooling this year is due to the fact that I attended the Veritas Teacher Training in July. The "How" got reinforced and answered with training, and the "Why" was answered with the encouragement of other people trying to accomplish the same thing I am. Those are important things to have reinforced each school year. Duh.

Most importantly, God really used that time to help me let go of many fears. You know how once you know the truth, you can't un-know it? Well, that's really what happened for me there. The truth of the responsibility for educating my children comes from God. Whether I partner with a school to do it (good luck, where I live) or if I take it upon myself, the bottom line is that God has told us parents to train them up in the way they should go, period.

Ho-Ly Cow

Well, God is a merciful God, indeed. The first 3 days of homeschooling took FOREVER. We weren't finished until 6 or 7PM each night. I thought I would surely have to become an alcoholic to survive the year ahead.

But...today was a different story. The kidlets worked well and efficiently, as did the mom, and we were finished at a more reasonable 1PM. God willing, the first 3 days are an anomaly, not to be experienced again. Rather they are to be seen with the humor of hindsight, as in, "Remember those awful three days back in 2006? Man, that was so funny!"

Interestingly, those have been the toughest days of homeschooling yet. Since I am starting year five, I found that somewhat surprising. Even more surprising, though, was the fact that, although the days were unpleaseant at best, I was still wholeheartedly committed to homeschooling. (Normally, I try to avoid unpleasantness in any way possible, so this was quite an experience for me.)

I am convinced of the fruit of this labor. I see this fruit every day, as I address the sinfulness in my kids right away, and when I am challenged to address my own sin toward those I hold most dear. As usual, it boils down to time. The only way to really know my kids is to be with them. The only way to impart the teaching that God requires of us parents is to make the time to do it.

This job is hard. And--don't tell anyone--I am lazy. Worse than that, I can't do this job on my own strength. Thankfully, I serve an awesome God, who can equip me to do this. How great is that?

One Down

A few hundred more to go. Homeschool days, that is. Yesterday was our first and it went better than it could have. It was WAY longer than I wanted it to be, though. Getting the Kidathons back to the routine will take some doing, I can see. We took about 3 weeks off, and that is plenty, I am convinced.

This year, I can see we will be fighting laziness ("Do I have to do this part, or can I skip it?") and pride("Why do the directions even tell us to do this. It seems silly."). I am grateful to be teaching them, as I know those are two things generally not on the agenda of a classroom teacher.

So far so good :-)

Beware of terrorists

My very busy husband hasn't had a chance to stop and smell the BS from the mainstreem media lately. So I proceeded to clue him in on the latest terrorist plot to be stopped. As I told him though, I couldn't help but be a smarty pants (you're shocked, I know). The exchange went something like this:

"So, honey, the Brits saved several planes from being bombed on their way from the UK to the US."

"What were the terrorists planning to do?"

"Make bombs on the planes by mixing liquids or something like that. Now liquids are banned from airlfight."

"Who were these guys?"

"Well, I'd rather not say, as their names might prejudice you toward people with similar names."

"Ok. What did they look like? Where were they from? To what groups do they belong?"

"I'd rather not say. I'd hate to have you mistake someone who shares certain characteristics, which all the terrorists share, for an actual terorist. But it is very important to be on the lookout and be aware."

"Let me get this straight, you won't tell me who they are, what they look like, what part of the world they were from, or any significant detail about them, and you want me to be on the lookout?"

"Yep. That's the idea." [insert sly grin here]

The Paranoia--It Begins

Ok, now I feel like an utter doofus for posting that I came out yesterday. The only people reading this blog thus far, already know who I am, and the future readers are going to think I have a screw loose. As Grandma Peterson would say, "Well, hell."

Coming Out

OK--I'm not really Jesse. I know that seems weird. It could also cause you to think I suffer from delusional self-importance. It's neither of those things, really. I'm just paranoid about privacy. Besides, what's in a name? A Jeanne by any other name would still rant as strongly.

There are two reasons for my "coming out": 1) My mom almost outed me, anyway, and 2) I feel sorry for myself that there aren't more comments on my blog. I figure this way, I can email my friends and have them take a gander at the ol' Momathon and send me their two cents now and then.

Waited Long Enough

I have waited long enough to rant about this one. I figured, since I'm on a roll with TeenScreen, I might as well go for it with this lovely thought for the day:

With the "100% success" of the HPV vaccine in trials on over 11,000 women, how long do you think it will be before this vaccine is required for admission to schools? Well, according to the CDC, not long at all. I give it 3 years, tops before you who send your kids to the government schools are forced to vaccinate your kids against this sexually transmitted disease in order to receive that "free appropriate education". By the way, as with most things, that education is worth exactly what you are paying for it.

You may think I 'm being alarmist, but look here and here.

Ahhh, but there is a chink in this savior's armor. From The National Cancer Institute's own website:

"Limitations

The vaccine tested in this study has several limitations, noted NCI’s Hildesheim. For one thing, the vaccine offers no protection against other types of HPV that can also cause cervical cancer. In addition, it’s unknown whether the vaccine’s protection against HPV-16 is long-lasting. Finally, it does not prevent HPV-16 infections already present at the time of vaccination from progressing to cancer."

I wonder if those angry folks in the previous links read this info and discarded it, or if they read it at all? It seems they are just happy for the chance to name call and paint us as crazy folks. Crazy because actually think that avoiding STDs is best done by avoiding the premarital S part of the disease. I also think avoiding electrocution is best done by using electrical sockets the way they were created to be used. Does that make me afraid of, or anti-electricity?

I'd love to know what you think.

Be Afraid, Be Very Afraid

If you think the forces of evil aren't subtly trying to snatch your children, think again. This should make your skin crawl and cause you to ask yourself "Do I know who has access and influence over my children today?"

From HSLDA's website:
Children in Utah public schools face yet another danger: suicide screening. TeenScreen, a national organization whose goal includes having mental check-ups for all of the nation’s youth, has been using public schools as an avenue for finding youth to screen under their Mental Health Screening program.

This screening is given to children as young as 9 years old and raises questions such as: Have you thought seriously about trying to kill yourself? Do you think often of killing yourself? Have you tried to kill yourself? These children agree to the screen for rewards of gift certificates for movies, food, parties, or clothing. Often parents are not asked or even told if their child is screened.


But wait, it gets worse.

Wake up, parents. Pay attention to where your children are, and who they are with. By that, I mean the adults in their lives. Peer pressure is nothing compared to influences like this.

Does This Mean I Am Heartless?

Am I the only one who thinks the story of Paul McCartney and Heather Mills' divorce is perfect for a movie or TV miniseries? Don't get me wrong, the reality of it is sad and rather disappointing. But c'mon, there are never any characters like Heather Mills. You just can't make up a former model nasty gold digging one legged stepmother. People just wouldn't buy it. It is an even more interesting story though, when the body guards are doing the grunt work:

From CNN.com
On Monday, police were called to the [McCartney]residence when Mills' security guard climbed over the wall of the premises to let her in. The locks on the gates had been changed.
'One of the security people inside called the police," [Mills' spokeswoman said].

The latest is here.

Halfway Around the World

As I was waiting for my turn in the stylist's chair, I found myself drawn in to the conversation she was having with the woman already seated there. The woman was planning a trip to Africa to do short term missions work. The 3 of us chatted away about God's seasons of service in our lives as women, and it became one of those times when things "just clicked". She has returned from her month in Africa, helping to build an orphanage. There is a website for the group with whom she is affiliated. Check it out here.

I cannot even begin to fathom the children orphaned by AIDS in Africa. It is simply a number my brain will not accept. If you are so inclined, please do make a donation. They are a small group, directly working with people in Swaziland, Africa.

Quote of the Day

"A popular Government, without popular information, or the means of acquiring it, is but a Prologue to a Farce or a Tragedy; or, perhaps both. Knowledge will forever govern ignorance:(emphasis mine) And a people who mean to be their own Governors, must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."

-- James Madison (letter to W.T. Barry, 4 August 1822)

Reference: Letters and other Writings of James Madison, vol. 3

People get in the way

You ever notice how people get in the way of being a "good Christian"? I mean, I would be so kind, patient, thoughtful, and loving if people would just leave me alone and do what I want them to do. Really. I'm not kidding. I'd be an example you all could point to. Really. I would. But those darn people keep bothering me. They interrupt my plan, they have needs, it's relentless. I don't know about you, but this is a real problem for me.

As I see it, I can either continue to delude myself that "they" are the problem (hasn't really worked thus far), or I can apply God's word to this and see what it gets me. Well now, that last one will work, but it requires me to humble myself, submit to His authority, and take the blame. All of it. Bummer. It is actually the only option that is real. The only one that works. Because that's what it was designed to do--break me from myself, my pride, and this world, training me to fix my eyes on Jesus and heaven.

Would you pray for me to be quicker to do this? I'll pray for you, too. We both know we need it :-)

Slow Digestion

No, I'm not going to get all disgusting here. I am referring to my trip to Pennsylvania. Its purpose was to attend the Veritas teacher training conference which was hosted by Veritas Press and Veritas Academy.

My digestion of all that I learned will be slow. As I sort things out, I will share them here. I have devoured several books by Doug and Nancy Wilson since hearing them speak, and have found each volume reminds me that "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." (2Tim 3:16) And, quite frankly, that's just the reminder I need!

Cultural Excursion--It really is a small world

Returned last night from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It was like another world. In both the good and bad ways. Wide, open farmland--good. Beautiful old buildings--good. Scores of Amish folks who cease education at the 8th grade--I'm gonna go out on a political limb, here and say, bad. Amishbuggyrides.com--Hmm...I don't really know about that one.


I was there less than a week, and stayed entirely in Lancaster county. It was like rewinding the clock to a different time. A time before I was a kid, that's for sure. People were courteous. Every door was held for me by a gentleman, teenaged or older. Waitresses smiled, and were genuinely pleasant. Not the just-finished-a-3-week-training-on-courteous-service kind of pleasant, either. These people were actually nice.

On the universality note, I saw Hibiscus plants for sale, albeit greatly different from the ones I see here in the Pacific rim. A friend and I saw God's beautiful creation and adorable children as we rode in one of those Amish buggys. She got groped by our eldery driver as I snapped of photo of the two of them. I guess sinners are everywhere. Go figure.

Oh by the way, some of the towns in the county are Bird In Hand, Intercourse, Virginivlle, and Blue Ball. Yes, these are towns named by those sweet innocent looking Amish folks.

A Reason to Educate

"Man, once surrendering his reason, has no remaining guard against absurdities the most monstrous, and like a ship without rudder, is the spot of every wind. With such persons, gullability, which they call faith, takes the helm from the hand of reason and the mind becomes a wreck."

-- Thomas Jefferson (letter to James Smith, 8 December 1822)

Homeschooling: Haven for Abusers?

No, it isn't.

He Must Have Hit "The Wall"

Syd Barret, one of the main dudes from Pink Floyd, has died.
I know, that was a tacky title, but I get to do that without fear, because I am anonymous. Yippee!

I got that info off Lileks, where I nearly needed the Depends mentioned in this:

She was born Ella Geisman, but died June Allyson. I remember her as the spokeswoman for Depends – a fate that will someday befall Sharon Stone, probably. "You know, when I was in ‘Basic Instinct, I raised eyebrows when I didn’t wear any panties. But that was then, and now I like the security and peace of mind of the new Depends Thong [for] active, glamorous seniors.”

If nothing else becomes a regular habit for you, visit Lileks daily.

Original--Not

One experiece common to all homeschoolers is the $25,000 question of "socialization". Ugh. For those who homeschool, it is painfully obvious. For those with kids in government or private schools, it is a genuine concern.
Initially, I became anxious, thinking I had to answer that question. But how to do it? How to compress all that had gone into my decision to homeschool into a relatively short, coherent answer? Then, I became a smarty pants. I took the idea from someone else (I seem to do that a lot) and responded thus: "No worries. Once a week I hide in the bathroom, beat my kids up and offer them drugs. That way, they have that real school experience." Now, I go on the offensive: "What do you mean by that?" I do that because I realize that every time I have been asked that question, the asker and I are not defining socialization the same way. Not only that, but the asker actually doesn't know what they mean. They haven't thought it through ad nauseum, as my husband and I have.
The truth is all socialization is not created equal. If you think about it, who in their right mind would want to ensure that their child acted like the typical fourth grader? Wouldn't it be better to have your child have exemplary behavior beyond her years? When was the last time you felt pride which compelled you to compliment the behavior in a high school hallway? Just curious...

Next post I'll tackle the concerns over the potential for abuse in homeschooling homes.

Dead Man's Chest

I am fully stealing a friend's line here when I say that will be my chest's new name. Check this out. WARNING: definite cringe factor ahead.

Avalanche

Is it just me, or do any of you other homeschoolers feel the crushing weight of your "To Do" list from time to time? Today's is scary. All this before 9:30 AM, simultaneously homeschooling Sweet Boy in Math and Writing:
Sweep/mop all floors
polish counter tops in kitchen
dust/vaccuum living room
cycle through as much laundry as possible (ensuring nothing gets left in the washer to mold)

At 9:30 it's off to Costco, pick up Girlie Whirl by 11AM, and go to furntiure store to purchase yet another bookshelf. (Sweet Boy's Lego creations are way too cool to disassemble. Therefore, we must display them proudly.)
Wish me luck!

Observation for the week

The 4th of July was wonderful. Threw a bash and saw lots of people I love dearly. Dad-a-thon created a small pyrotechnic danger in the street, but no one was injured. All in all, a great day in America. Which brings me to my observation: After posting Tuesday, I began to wonder: Did any of you know that was inscribed on the Liberty Bell? I sure didn't. I wonder if those folks over at this place know what's on there? But then, they would have to actually study history, rather than reinvent it. And, well, that's just too darn hard.
There are so many instances where our Judeo-Christian heritage is threatened. I challenge you to really know your country's history. Know who those founders really were as men. As you do, you will find them very human, fascinating, strange, and yes, a little nutty. Much like some of your favorite friends, I'm sure.
Here's a short list of books to get you started:
1776
Benjamin Franklin
Mayflower
George Washington's Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation

Let Freedom Ring

"Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof - Lev. XXV, v. X"
Inscription on the Liberty Bell, from Leviticus 25:10

It is really something to celebrate. With the opinions I have, and this mouth I am not afraid to use, I thank God every day for this great nation of His. To those of us who like to think for ourselves and worship freely--party on! America is the place to be.

That Pesky Truth

SpunkyHomeschool is right on. Hers is not a popular commentary on parenting, but I have to say, I couldn't agree more. The bottom line is that parenting is hard. And, like most difficult things, we don't want to do it. We'd rather have "me time". (A phrase, by the way, which could get you poked in the eye if you say it within my arms reach.) So, we outsource the gig. I mean, heck, the authorities are willing to take on your little darlings? You should be grateful. And, quite frankly, you are.

Heart Surgery

I am changed by Christ. This is dramatic, if you know me at all.
I have become someone who cares--to the point of genuine sorrow--about another person. I yearn in a deep way for her to bathe herself in the word of God; to know its life changing power. For her to reap the benefits of all that our Father in heaven wants for her in this life. And yet, I have a deep sense that it is simply not going to happen.
God is performing surgery, changing my stony heart to flesh. And it really hurts.

The Devil Wears Eyebrows Oops! I Mean Prada

Went to see the film yesterday with a good friend. We enjoyed it. It departs from the book in many ways that are just fine by me. However, the casting of both romantic interests are ugh, yucky. The boyfriend, Nate, looks like a 17 year old who really needs a shower, and Christian, the dashing handsome writer guy has freakish eyebrows. Really--they are creepy in a Steven King sort of way. I could imagine them coming to life and eating people. Or talking to Christian, and telling him to do horrible things, and...well, you get the idea--just plain distracting.

My friend and I both identified more with Amanda Priestly than we should have. It would really be so much fun to let your inner monologue be heard. My personal favorite is Meryl Streep's incredible and ever so slight flick of her hands, adding emphasis to "That's all."

Of course, the utter narcissism is deplorable, but somewhere, deep inside, Amanda's right, we all really do want to be her.

Maxi-Multi-tasking

Just returned from retrieving Girlie Girl from her summer class. On the way home, we stopped at Costco to pick up items for our upcoming 4th of July party. While there I had to quickly look away before I laughed out loud. A woman was shouldering (is that a word?) her cell phone to her ear while holding onto a giant lemon cake with one hand. With the other hand, she was arranging a space to place it into her already full grocery cart. The cart started rolling while she was doing this. Now that I write this, I wished I had stayed to see how it all turned out.

Virgin Voyage

Well, I did it. I finally spared my husband the pain of listening to my rants and have decide to "share the love" as it were, with the blogosphere. I am very new to the publishing part of this, so please bear with me as I figure this whole thing out. Lots of opinions, lots of ideas, not much time for follow through :-) I hope we can all enjoy the interchange of ideas and opinions.

Last Straw

I have had an interesting few weeks which have given me pause. Among the issues over which I currently perseverate (look it up) are child-rearing, the meaning of friendship, the meaning of "Christian", and wondering if one can evolve from a Type A personality to a Type B.

The final straw which caused me to start this blog was the book The One Minute Dad by Spencer Johnson, M.D. (Are you kidding me? One minute?) I got that, along with The Hurried Child by David Elkind at the public library's used book sale. Those, a Far Side Gallery and a Calvin & Hobbes collection set me back a whopping $3.50. This girl does love a baragain.

The Hurried Child was published in 1981, by the way....Does anyone heed social warnings? I am curious, do any of you out there know of a time in history when a social warning resulted in a redirection of some sort?