April 2008
April 30, 2008
Free Netflix one-month trial
I have a coupon I can forward to anyone who'd like to try Netflix free for a month. But it's embedded in an email, so if you would like to try Netflix - which I love because I've never looked for a movie they don't have - email me...6:10 AM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 29, 2008
Rachel - update
Those who were praying for Rachel last month will probably be as blessed as I was by this email she said I could share with you: Hey Everyone, Thank you all for your prayers over the last month. It's been really hard, but it's helped to know you guys...5:38 PM in Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (1)
Freedom vs Protection - thinking it over
My son Zach (20) first asked me what my readers and I thought of this article. I didn't post it then, but when I got a second request from Kari, I thought maybe you all would like to comment: Why I Let My 9-Year-Old Ride the Subway Alone Posted on...5:07 PM in Loudoun County, Mothering, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (20)
Learning to handle family finances - input, please
Barbara, I've shirked my responsibilities on this for years and now I don't have a clue on anything beyond write a check or ordering something online. My poor husband has done it all solo. Now he banks and pays bills online and due to my own laziness I don't even...5:02 PM in Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (5)
National Wear Your Apron Day - May 12
Kitchen Madonna has a byline that reads Let this kitchen be a place where those who hunger may be fed as much with love and understanding as with bread Isn't that a beautiful thought? In announcing National Wear Your Apron Day, she writes: Aprons mean service. They mean giving and...4:27 PM in Apron Power!, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
What about "draft" IEPs?
those of you with kids with IEPs really need to subscribe to the free newsletter from Wrightslaw, which contains helpful information like this: Can the IEP Team Prepare a "Draft IEP" Before an IEP Meeting? Yes . . . Sharing information leads to healthier working relationships between parents and school...3:58 PM in Loudoun County, Public schools, Special education | Permalink | Comments (0)
Update on Hattie
I know many of you have been praying for Josh and Hattie, my oldest son and DIL. Though they have thought they several times - and even after the last setback - it seems they are still not out of the woods with her medical condition. Hattie wanted me...3:41 PM in Hattie and Josh, Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 28, 2008
A Tribute to Dr. Sears and Martha #3
Thank you, Barbara, for this opportunity to express something to the Sears family ... I met them once at a LLLI conference and remember being just as impressed with their personal warmth as with their courageous, inspiring, and compassionate writing. Had I not picked up a copy of The Discipline...5:45 PM in Sears tribute | Permalink | Comments (0)
A Tribute to Dr. Sears and Martha #4
I have both "The Discipline Book" and "The Complete Book of Christian Parenting & Child Care". Although I haven't read the whole way through either yet I have found much encouragement and wisdom in their pages. The Sears have both enlightened me about behaviors and methods and reassured me in...4:47 PM in Sears tribute | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun: Good news from the Sheriff's Dapartment
As a mother, I got goose bumps: Loudoun County, Virginia, Mon, Apr 28, 2008 As members of law enforcement guard the nation’s streets, it is often referred to as routine patrol. A Loudoun Sheriff’s deputy’s decision to stop for an apparent disabled vehicle on Friday proves that nothing is routine...12:36 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 26, 2008
Do the next thing
You know how Elisabeth Elliot always reminds us to "Do the next thing"? Here's the poem - author unknown: Do the Next Thing At an old English parsonage down by the sea, there came in the twilight a message to me. Its quaint Saxon legend deeply engraven that, as it...8:27 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
How to choose a Montessori school
Barbara, My family will be moving to the San Antonio area within the next year so I have begun looking at my options for schooling. I have been looking at several Montessori preschools in the area, and one question keeps popping into my head. What should I be looking for...4:15 PM in Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Prenatal diagnosis? Pressure to terminate? Read this first -
Running this again because it is an amazing and wonderful site which can help parents grieving and confused find clarity and peace of mind - through reading the journeys of others: BeNotAfraid.net is an online outreach to parents who have received a poor or difficult prenatal diagnosis. The family stories,...3:40 PM in Babies, Birth, Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 25, 2008
The Merton Prayer
Tripp sent me this prayer from thomas Merton's Thoughts in Solitude - I thought some of you might like it too: MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will...10:24 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Working through your history with your mom
Received this from a reader and asked to share it. Thought it would make for some good conversation and insights: My mother was here (from the Midwest where I grew up) and it was driving me crazy the way she kept interfering with my parenting and stepping in on discipline...9:56 PM in Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
Jesus and Muhammad compared
An impressively through and fact-based analysis: Jesus and Muhammad compared By William J. Federer What motivates fundamental Muslims to violence? Much effort has gone into answering this. Muslim apologists are quick to point out Christians have also committed violence. Secularists suggest anybody who believes in God is prone to violence,...6:59 PM in Religion | Permalink | Comments (0)
Sarah Palin, Alaska governor and mother of new baby with Down syndrome - more news
More on Sarah Palin, the governor of Alaska who just gave birth to her fifth child, a son with Down syndrome: Leading by example If anyone can relate to the struggles of raising a special needs child in this unforgiving world, it's Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R). Last week,...5:40 PM in Babies, Current Affairs, Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
CDC admits autism vaccination link
We've been talking about the vaccination problem. Here is a brief Katie Couric report on the autism vaccination link - I can only imagine that we will see many, many more of these in the future:...12:11 PM in Babies, Health, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (4)
April 24, 2008
Mothers Day/Fathers Day: Adoption photo album
Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me You all know how committed I am to adoption (if not, then type adoption into my personal Google on the righthand sidebar :)....4:03 PM in Adoption, Mother's Day | Permalink | Comments (0)
Teens going thrifty too
From the Washington Times, Apr 23, 2008: It's hip to be thrifty By Anne D'Innocenzio - NEW YORK (AP) The souring job market and rising costs of the usual teenage indulgences — a slice of pizza, a drive to the mall, the hottest new jeans — are causing teens to...3:59 PM in Current Affairs, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Mom Song from Go Fish - fun and inspiration
Oh my goodness, you all - you will love this! Go Fish just posted their MOM song to YouTube. You will want to watch this with your kids - and download to play in your laundry room or when you need a little more oomph: Many thanks to my friend...9:23 AM in Humor, Inspiration, Mothering, Music | Permalink | Comments (9)
Tribute to Dr. Sears and Martha - deadline tomorrow
Just a reminder that if you wanted to include any expression of gratitude - via a comment, blog entry/link or published entry here - to Dr. Sears and Martha, the deadline is today. So far I actually only have two - which I guess is an indication that you all...9:05 AM in Babies, Mothering, Sears tribute, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Loudoun County Public Schools - school nurse problems
Once again, I have found myself in the middle of a mess with the school nurse who for the past two years been subjecting my son with disabilities to hyper-scrutiny and - I believe - a different standard than the general school population. (See Does this kid look sick to...8:41 AM in Disabilities, Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (1)
Shakespeare's birthday
Didn't get this posted yesterday - but our family has many Shakespeare fans and so I wanted to share William Federer's American Minute tribute to the Bard of Avon: April 23 William Shakespeare was born APRIL 23, 1564. His 37 plays impacted world literature. He married Ann Hathaway, had...6:37 AM in Culture | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 23, 2008
Paglia: teens shouldn't be pushed into gay identity
With the Day of Silence looming - on April 25, gay and lesbian students are supposed to make a political statement by refraining from speech - I'd like to offer an alternative view. This Question/Answer piece appeared in Salon magazine as part of Camille Paglia's standing column. Paglia is a...8:02 PM in Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 22, 2008
Court rules: no head bowing allowed
1:57 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (3)
Protecting your sons from aggressive girls
Yesterday I brought up the topic of aggressive girls - which is occurring at younger and younger ages, augmented by IMs and text-messaging - and which can take mothers of boys by surprise. I emphasized the responsibility of parents to be proactive in setting apporpriate guidelines and expectations for sons...12:59 PM in Boys, Gender differences, Girls, Mothering, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (4)
Why women live longer than men
From my Inbox yesterday. And I pass it on with all due respect and admiration for men :) Before I was a mom, I would have seen these as proof that men were somewhat stupid. But now, as a mother who's lived with nine males (hubby and eight sons) for...7:57 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (10)
April 21, 2008
Paglia says: women, don't vote for Hillary
Camille Paglia - outspoken lesbian and brilliant philosophy professor (I've always liked her because she doesn't march in lockstep with her political comrades - for instance, she is VERY opposed to the gay agenda of encouraging teens to declare their homosexuality) - weighs in on the eve of the...1:01 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
The fox in my life
Last month I told you about the Fox in My Life. Caught him outside this morning, enjoying the wet greenery: And now, off to work. . . . ....11:39 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (0)
Celebrating birthdays at our house yesterday
I have so much to be grateful for! The downpour yesterday put the kibosh on sports (* kibosh - isn't that a great Yiddish word?) and meant that our house was filled with cheer. This means grandchildren are here: Yay! Here is Aunt Maddy with my youngest grandson Jeffrey: Maddy...11:30 AM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)
Montessori Mondays - mixing colors
Every academic subject has its roots in early childhood. By drawing your child's attention to the order of things in the natural world, you introduce him to the study of science. Structuring even simple activities has larger ramifications for later work when the child will learn how to test hypotheses...10:44 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Montessori Mondays | Permalink | Comments (2)
Speaking with parents of special needs kids Thursday 4/24
I will be speaking to a small group of parents at St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church in Clifton, Virginia This is a new group started by Catholic parents of children with special needs. Betty wrote me last week: We have a name for the group, now: Caritas Christi (Love...10:22 AM in Disabilities, Special education | Permalink | Comments (0)
Teaching sons about aggressive girls
My oldest son is now 24. But when he was 13, he had the unpleasant experience of a girl on swim team pushing herself at him physically. Yeah, I know, some people in this sex-saturated culture would say, "What's the problem?" Like guys are supposed to be indiscriminate, reacting to...9:22 AM in Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (2)
Elisabeth Elliot on accepting God's will
Faith Is Holding Out Your Hand Sometimes when I was a child my mother or father would say, "Shut your eyes and hold out your hand." That was the promise of some lovely surprise. I trusted them, so I shut my eyes instantly and held out my hand. Whatever...9:11 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Vaccinations: pros and cons - your input, please
I originally published this in May 2007, but this question in my Inbox this morning prompted me to reprint it with all the original comments. Please feel free to add more: How do you feel about vaccinations? When I was going through my special education training, many parents told me...8:40 AM in Babies, Big Pharma, Current Affairs, Health, Vaccines | Permalink | Comments (52)
Bisbee condoms - time to rethink teen sexuality
Remember the Bisbee Arizona prom condom giveaway? Last night Steven Reed, a Bisbee parent, left this comment on my blog - I'm printing verbatim: OK heres how we in bisbee look at it. How many kids in the us are having sex at very young ages and NOT usun g...8:25 AM in Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 19, 2008
The BEST jigsaw puzzles
Someone ordered this through my amazon link (thank you!) and it reminded me how much I love this puzzle of Washington,DC: Amazon's description is right on the money: This superb, up-to-the-minute overview of Washington, DC pinpoints all the city's famous monuments and historic buildings and is filled with fascinating facts....8:15 PM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (4)
Disney's desperate housewives
5:16 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)
Justin's playing soccer!
We're really not a soccer family - over the years my kids have done Pop Warner football, Little League, Challenger Little League, swim team, Special Olympics basketball. . . .I'm sure there's probably something else but I can't think what it is. My grandchildren do soccer because their dad, Kip,...12:53 PM in Down syndrome, Family | Permalink | Comments (2)
Alaska Governor welcomes fifth child - with Down syndrome
Congratulations, dear Sarah - you're in for the time of your life! May your son Trig always be a blessing and a joy to everyone whose lives he touches! Palin welcomes fifth child, a son named Trig Paxson Van Palin JUNEAU — Gov. Sarah Palin gave birth Friday to her...10:47 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)
Happy birthday, Maddy!
Fifteen years ago I gave birth for the last time - at least I think so :) Maddy was born 54 weeks after her brother Jonny. She was - as she announces to people she meets now - #9. When she was three weeks old, Jonny was hospitalized for...8:06 AM in Family, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
Sports practices on Sunday - can we rant about this for a minute?
And while I'm at it: why in the world do we have sports practices on Sunday??!!!?? My kids' Challenger Little League and soccer practices are on Saturday, so I'm grateful this is not an issue for us this year. But we have had years in the past. And even in...7:39 AM in Culture | Permalink | Comments (4)
Proof that prayer works
We try to get our family together every Sunday. With try being the key word. But with my grandchildren very involved in soccer and baseball - spread out on four different teams - plus Tim has umpire jobs - sometimes it's not possible. On Thursday, facing my grandchildren's extremely...7:31 AM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 18, 2008
Time: global warming a cause worth dying for?
Iwo Jima Veterans Blast Time's 'Special Environmental Issue' Cover Time editor tells MSNBC 'there needs to be a real effort along the lines of World War II to combat global warming and climate change.' By Jeff Poor Business & Media Institute 4/18/2008 9:40:43 AM For only the second time...1:02 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (3)
Oprah finds the New Age, ditches a Savior
Crosswalk published some of my thoughts on Oprah and the New Age today: What is 'New Age' Religion, and Why Can't Christians Get on Board? Barbara Curtis Crosswalk.com Contributing Writer If you haven't run into it before, it would be hard to avoid it now. Oprah's rolling out the red...12:51 PM in Current Affairs, Entertainment, Religion | Permalink | Comments (0)
A Tribute to Dr. Sears and Martha #2
As I announced last month, I'm gathering thank-yous from parents whose lives have been touched by Dr. and Martha Sears' books on attachment parenting, child development, and child discipline. I will be presenting them to Martha as a gift on May 1. Greta sent this: Dear Dr. and Mrs. Sears,...7:01 AM in Birth, Mothering, Sears tribute | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 17, 2008
Ben Stein's Expelled - a must see movie
Great new movie exposing Darwinism for the religion that it is - and the philosophical justification for Hitler's extermination of what he saw as a "lesser species." Survival of the fittest? Remember? Ben Stein - of Ferris Bueller's Day Off fame, but so much more than an actor (writer,...2:21 PM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (2)
Psalm 23 for work
From Angie: Psalm (for work) The Lord is my real boss, and I shall not want. He gives me peace, when chaos is all around me. He gently reminds me to pray and do all things without murmuring and complaining. He reminds me that he is my source and not...2:14 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Popping the question? Forget balloons -
From The Brisbane Times magazine: It is the one moment every man wants to get right - and which London floor-fitter Lefkos Hajji could hardly have got more wrong. The luckless 28 year-old's dreams of giving his sweetheart, Leanne, 26, the ultimate proposal have literally vanished into thin air. Hajji,...1:49 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)
The Battle Hymn of the Republic - Army Chorus welcoming Pope Benedict 4/16/08
On the White House lawn yesterday - video quality not the best, but nothing could detract from the sound. Third verse goosebumps:...1:43 PM in Current Affairs, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (4)
Samantha's Guatemala adoption update
Samantha (my oldest daughter and mother of five grandchildren) just emailed me pictures of the baby they are hoping to adopt in Guatemala. How I wish I could share the pictures with you - but I can't for adoption privacy reasons. For those new here, Kip and Samantha began this...9:33 AM in Adoption, Family | Permalink | Comments (2)
Lisa Miller Update - urgent - prayer needed!
Remember Lisa Miller? She needs our prayers. The Virginia Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments this morning in her case - which will undoubtedly have implications nationwide. Lisa is the former lesbian biological mother of Isabella, whose former partner under Vermont law is seeking custody of a daughter unconnected...8:16 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (4)
April 16, 2008
Does sugar lead to depression?
This may sound very naive, but I have never been a big sugar fan and so I never noticed. Recently on two separate occasions I had a little candy before going to bed (I know - it does sound stupid when I write it down). Both times I've woken up...6:20 AM in Diet | Permalink | Comments (16)
April 15, 2008
Taxes - think about this
“Most of what Congress is constitutionally authorized to spend for is listed in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution and includes: coining money, establish Post Offices, to support Armies and a few other activities. Today’s federal budget is over $3 trillion dollars. I challenge anyone to find specific...7:28 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (1)
Speaking of gender differences
Tripp forwarded this to me: NICKNAMES * If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate and Sarah. * If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes. EATING OUT *When the...4:59 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)
Jennifer and me
It's always a blessing when I get to meet someone in person that I've only known online. Last Saturday, Jennifer Merkel was in Harper's Ferry, West Virginia with her kids - who were participating in a Civil War reenactment. For some reason, my children were very busy on their own....4:46 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (1)
Abstinence billboard
Spotted in Baltimore yesterday - which I guess made being hopelessly lost worth it:...1:54 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Let's hear what the Pope has to say to us
I hope that all American Christians will look beyond their denominational differences and listen to the message Pope Benedict will deliver to the United States during his visit. His moral authority is unparalleled - in addition to the fact that he is an extremely gifted, intelligent and articulate voice,...12:21 PM in Catholicism, Church Issues, Current Affairs, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Oprah and the "pregnant man" - who was never a man at all
Maybe I should have titled this entry The Problem with Oprah. . . . A colleague of mine wrote me last week: I’ve been watching Oprah for the past couple of weeks to reacquaint myself with her show (haven’t watched in years) and she presents the New Age “gospel†in...11:42 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (6)
April 14, 2008
Taking Daniel to Dr. Capone today
It's cold again today - glad I never found the time to do the big wardrobe switcheroo. I'm off to Baltimore this morning with Daniel to visit Dr. Capone at the Kennedy Krieger Institute, which is part of Johns Hopkins University Hospital. Daniel has Down syndrome, but he is really...7:12 AM in Autism, Down syndrome, Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (2)
Montessori Mondays - children's puzzles
Here's how any mom can make the most of teaching moments by using Montessori techniques: Take puzzles, for instance. Choose the kind with knobs, as they encourage the child's pincer grasp - which will strengthen and refine his thumb and finger control so that when the time comes to pick...6:42 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Montessori Mondays, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (5)
April 13, 2008
The Church of Oprah
Several readers have sent me this. While I'm not recommending buying the book this clip is promoting, even those of us who are not daytime TV viewers or Oprah fans need to understand what she is doing - she wields such enormous influence. Tripp and I were New Age seekers...8:01 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (4)
Memory Keeper's Daughter - Down syndrome movie tonight
The Memory Keeper's Daughter is on Lifetime tonight (Sunday) at 6 and 8 and again Monday night at 9 pm. From Movieweb: The NY Times best selling book comes to life in this beautifully acted movie which premiers April 12 on Lifetime Television, with encore presentations the next two nights....4:26 PM in Down syndrome, Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (4)
Frank Sinatra patriotic: What Is America to Me?
This is long, but there is a jewel at the end. . The first part is Frank crooning - unrelated to where the clip is going. You can easily skip to 2:47 to hear Frank speak against prejudice and uniting against American enemies . Or just go to 6:40 to...3:48 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
American Idols sing Shout to the Lord!
The most-watched show on television gave praise where praise was due last week, singing Shout to the Lord. In the Wednesday night version, Jesus was edited out of the song: the lyrics said "My shepherd, my Savior." Still - not exactly something you'd expect to see on a show that...11:28 AM in Entertainment, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (5)
April 12, 2008
99 Balloons - update from Matt and Ginny
Remember 99 Balloons? I ran it last year, but if you weren't here for haven't seen it - or just want to watch it again to be reminded of the tender beauty of life - here it is: Now, please go to the 99 Balloons Blog to get an update...3:30 PM in Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (2)
Want to adopt? check out this resource
I've heard so many people say they would love to adopt but can't afford it. Let's get to work making it possible. Today could be the day that changes the rest of your life - and the rest of a child's life. I'm pleading with all Christian churches to help....10:14 AM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (0)
Adoption giveaway - three prizes
These are just small tokens, but I'd like to pass them on to acknowledge families who've responded to God's call for us to take care of orphans. These cuddly bunnies - named Shaoey in honor of Steven Curtis Chapman's first adopted daughter Shaohannah - were produced by Gund to...9:11 AM in Adoption, Church Issues, Contest | Permalink | Comments (16)
The IEP process: Wrightslaw equips parents
I've shared here about the exceptional work done by Pete and Pam Wright in untangling the IEP process for parents and equipping us to advocate effectively for our children. I was fortunate to attend a Wrightslaw seminar in our area last fall and would recommend it to any parent who...8:45 AM in Disabilities, Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (1)
Why Does America Have Orphans If It Has Christian Churches?
Anthony Bradley, a professor at Covenant Seminary, wrote the following challenge last year, and the title is so good, I just used it instead of making up my own: Why Does America Have Orphans If It Has Christian Churches? America has nearly 115,000 orphaned kids in foster care waiting...8:28 AM in Adoption, Church Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Farewell to a beautiful young lady with Down syndrome: Melissa Riggio
Melissa Riggio dies at 20; Inspired changes in bookselling, publishing April 8th, 2008 Melissa Riggio, whose life helped prompt the publishing industry to pay more attention to the expanding market of people with disabilities and their families, died Monday of leukemia, her family announced today. The daughter of Barnes...7:08 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
Elderly woman shares Jesus, averts violence
7:04 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 11, 2008
Obama's true colors: on Pennsylvania
Obama - who claims he wants to unite America - speaks one way to Pennsylvanians and another way about them. Wonder what the working class people who showed up on his recent Keystone State "Road to Change" bus tour would think of this - his follow-up analysis of them when...5:40 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (3)
Jet Blue ticket raffle - for Loudoun VSA
This is a raffle to benefit Very Special Arts of Loudoun County. But you don't have to live in Loudoun to enter and you do not have to be present to win. What you will need to do to enter is to blow up the above poster to 8...4:43 PM in Contest | Permalink | Comments (0)
Jonny & Me: Our Amazing NYC adventure
Jonny's amazing New York adventure is now ready for viewing - along with my random commentary - just click below: NYC: Jonny's amazing adventure More random observations: * In our three days in New York City, I never saw another individual with Down syndrome - nor have I in my...3:48 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
A tribute to Dr. Bill and Martha Sears - deadline April 25
I am running this again because I thought more people would like to participate in this tribute to the Sears. I know they've helped many, many of us with their ideas on attachment parenting, loving and sensible discipline, and common sense encouragement. If you would like to participate in this...8:14 AM in Sears tribute | Permalink | Comments (0)
Winter/summer switch: when?
Jonny and I are home from New York - will write all about it later as I am busy catching up. The kids have off school today so won't be able to blog much. I just have a question for you: I'm seriously considering getting out our summer clothes today...8:07 AM in Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (17)
April 10, 2008
Another high-profile Evangelical becomes Catholic
Just heard that Paul McCusker, the creator/writer of Focus on the Family's Odyssey series has become Catholic. Anyone have any information on this? I haven't been able to find a blog or website for him. I find this news very affirming. As I've found the news that a very well-respected...9:01 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (11)
Bisbee Arizona prom condom giveaway
Prom Bag Pushes Kids into the Sack Bisbee, Arizona used to be known as a peaceful old mining town, but the city that was once rich in tradition is now rife with controversy. Against the wishes of several area parents, the local Bisbee School Board voted this week to include...8:45 AM in Current Affairs, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (7)
April 8, 2008
For Rachel, with love and prayer
I love that readers here can count on other moms for encouragement, advice and prayer support when they need it. You all prayed so hard for Rachel. I did too. But the Lord giveth and the Lord taketh away - and I don't mean to sound platitudinous. I'm saying that...8:12 PM in Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (2)
Barbara and Jonny's amazing adventure
I wan't expecting to post so soon, but since Jonny got up at 5 - I got up at 4, but I don't count :) - I am giving him a little break after checking into our room. He's watching a silly movie with Lucille Ball, Gene Kelly, and Red...1:26 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
April 7, 2008
Jonny & Me: Counting down to NYC
If you have emailed me in the past week, chances are I haven't answered yet. Between Maddy's singing over the weekend and trying to get things in order for Jonny's trip to New York - plus selling a bunch of stuff on Ebay - I have been scrambling to leave...10:09 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (3)
Need work? Funny
10:06 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun County foreclosures make national news
Foreclosures come to McMansion Country Again, I need to ask about this recent Loudoun County press release: Because of a decrease in the value of residential property assessments, the annual property tax bills for the average homeowner will increase by an average of $308, or 6.5%, during FY 09. Because...5:48 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)
April 6, 2008
My life - full speed ahead!
Maddy and I drove down to Old Dominion University in Norfolk Friday morning for the second level of the NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) competition. She had placed in the state competition and so was moving on to regionals. I am not a trained singer, but several of...3:39 PM in Family, Mothering, Music, My life | Permalink | Comments (8)
April 4, 2008
Loudoun County - Huge clothing giveaway 4/5
5:52 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 3, 2008
Advice needed: for a son not college-bound
My 17 year old son is in his last year of high school and he is still undecided which road to continue on. We live in Greece, so the college route has too many students who cannot get jobs after graduation. They just have a pile of diplomas to...3:31 PM in Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (12)
Living up to your faith
Spotted on a bumper sticker: If you were on trial for being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?...10:32 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Elisabeth Elliot on dealing with interruptions
I know this wisdom from Elisabeth Elliot will resonate with moms. Our work flow is so unpredictable! I want to remind you that the everyday work you do is actually heavenly in nature. When I do the humblest tasks for my family, I think of Jesus washing the disciples' feet...9:09 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 2, 2008
Update from Rachel - answered prayer, but more needed
Hello everyone, After a long day spent at the doctor, my prayers have been answered regarding the ectopic pregnancy. I believe I got my miracle. Last night's u/s showed something on my left side and nothing in my uterus. Today, less than 24 hours and many, many prayers later, the...9:23 PM in Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (2)
CF Husband's answer to prayers - new lungs for Tricia
I know some of you have been following the story of Tricia, the young woman whose cystic fibrosis/pregnancy crisis resulted in a teeny-tiny premature baby and months of hospitalization awaiting a lung transplant. Answered prayers! Nathan wrote 90 minutes ago that they had just wheeled Tricia into the OR...9:13 PM in Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (3)
Loudoun County taxes climb despite financial woes/foreclosures
This press release gives new meaning to the term flim-flam. Here follows my annotated version: The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors on April 1, 2008, approved a fiscal plan totaling about $1.6 billion for the general county government and school system for FY 2009. [Note: I wish all it took...8:44 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
Teens losing touch with cultural history
Teens losing touch with common cultural and historical references By Greg Toppo USA TODAY Big Brother. McCarthyism. The patience of Job. Don't count on your typical teenager to nod knowingly the next time you drop a reference to any of these. A study out today finds that about half of...6:01 PM in Public schools, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (1)
SAHMs - how do you fill in the occupation/employer blanks?
Good question from Von: I was wondering what other SAH/HS mothers put down on paperwork for their occupation and for their employer. I’ve always been a SAH wife and then mother and then later a homeschooling mom; so that’s what I put on the paperwork. The blank for employer has...5:30 PM in Mothering | Permalink | Comments (14)
We have so much - do we really need it?
When Tripp and I were wealthy, I'm ashamed to say that I thought it was because God was blessing us because he loved us. It's hard to explain, but now that we are struggling financially, I really feel more loved than ever - and feel like I was really...2:12 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (4)
Starting homeschool during high school - your input needed
Anyone have experience in this to help? I have recently made the decision to homeschool my daughter next year (she has always attended school), and from a practical point of view I'd like to know where/how to begin! I am somewhat overwhelmed by all the choices that are available and...1:26 PM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (4)
Conservative news site - the Patriot Post
PapaTripp recommends this site. America's most widely read Internet-based publication, The Patriot Post, is a highly acclaimed journal advocating individual liberty, the restoration of constitutional limits on government and the judiciary, and the promotion of free enterprise, national defense and traditional American values.ou might want to bookmark. You might...1:19 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (0)
Possible ectopic pregnancy - please pray for Rachel
Rachel needs our prayers! For three years, through her comments here and emails we've exchanged, I've known Rachel. Though I'm old enough to be her mom, as a mom who still is growing, I feel like we've grown together through the good times and bad. I've admired Rachel's transparency...12:23 PM in Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (12)
Evaluating children's books about Jesus
There are a lot of books about Jesus out there. But just because they're about Jesus doesn't mean they're about Jesus, the Messiah, the Savior, the Son of God. Sometimes, they are about Jesus as a great teacher or The Light of the World. I recently received a question from...11:56 AM in Books, Preschoolers, Spiritual education, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (3)
Loudoun County: The Isaacs - free bluegrass concert April 26
Joshua's Hands proudly presents The Isaacs in a free concert April 26 at 7PM at Hamilton Baptist Church SEATING CAPACITY IS LIMITED TO 600! An offering will be taken to support the Teen Safe Driving Project -- a work of Joshua's Hands. For more information about Joshua's Hands or...11:27 AM in Loudoun County, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Is Planned Parenthood a wise investment for America - sign petition, please!
Dear Barbara, While most companies have started to feel the squeeze of our sagging economy, business has never been better for Planned Parenthood. Although the organization couldn't be more controversial, its profits have never been higher, according to the group's 2006-07 annual report. For the first time in history, Planned...11:08 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
April 1, 2008
Apple stars: seeing the wonders around us
Don't forget to cut your apples so you can see the star!! I can't believe I was raising five children before I learned this. I assume everyone else already knows it, but just in case you don't - it's never too late to learn. And pssst! Pass it on...2:17 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (5)
Elisabeth Elliot on dying to self
Proof that something profound doesn't need a lot of words. This one could keep you thinking through many loads of laundry: Die Quickly To hold onto something with a desperate grip is not the way to die. Death is a painful process, and restoratives offered to the dying wretch bound...10:28 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
Planned Parenthood "disappointed" - Parental notification rights upheld
Love being on Planned Parenthood's email list. When they're "disappointed" it's always a happier day for me! Take Action for Reproductive Rights Dear Barbara, We are disappointed to inform you that yesterday, Attorney General Lisa Madigan's office took action (again!) to lift the injunction on Illinois' 1995 Parental Notification law....8:25 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (0)
