September 2008
September 30, 2008
Finding out more about Catholicism
i know you are incredibly busy , but i am interested in learning more about the catholic church and was wondering if you can point me in the right direction? ive already found catholic.org, and its answered some, but am searching for more! S. A great start is going to...3:43 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (5)
Obama kids hail leader with hymn of praise
I agree with this comment: spamiam (1 day ago) That's just creepy. Run this one through your YouTube search bar: "BUND DEUTSCHER MÄDEL IN DER HITLER-JUGEND" Then run this one: "Obama civilian paramilitary force" Look - I'm as anxious for the first black President as the next person, but...12:35 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (5)
Catholics: vote conscience, not party
Download a copy here. Also - here's a great video to remind you: Please pass these on to your family and friends....12:16 PM in Campaign 2008, Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Nancy Pelosi to meet with SF Archbishop - when??
Monday September 8, 2008 Pelosi Agrees to Meeting with SF Archbishop over Abortion Remarks By Tim Waggoner SAN FRANCISCO, September 8, 2008 (LifeSiteNews.com) - House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has agreed to meet with the Archbishop of San Francisco, George Niederauer, regarding her appearance on an August 24 episode of...10:20 AM in Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Can a Catholic be a Democrat? Take 2
Michelle Truman sent me these thoughts from the publisher of Can a Catholic Be a Democrat? Candidates 'By the age of fifty-five, as a lawyer, officer of the realm, husband, father, popular citizen, speaker, and writer, he had achieved as much fame, wealth, professional success, and genuine affection as any...9:35 AM in Campaign 2008, Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues, Religion | Permalink | Comments (1)
Can a Catholic be a Democrat?
Can a Catholic Be a Democrat: How the Party I Loved Became the Enemy of My Religion by David Carlin For Catholics who - because of their ethnic background and family heritage - have remained loyal Democrats, I'd just like to suggest that while loyalty is good, your party left...8:42 AM in Campaign 2008, Catholicism, Church Issues, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (6)
We need bigger families - UK reporter/father of 5
'Why the middle classes must have bigger families!' says TV news reporter Colin Brazier By Colin Brazier 25th August 2008 After four years of research, the TV news presenter has proved what he instinctively thought was right: larger families are happier, healthier, better adjusted - and deeply discriminated against......8:24 AM in Big families, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 29, 2008
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur takes on Wall Street, Congress
Where did this woman come from? A democrat taking Congress to task for protecting Wall Street and ripping off taxpayers during the current crisis - Marcy Kaptur is a Democrat serving the ninth district of Ohio since 1983: September 17: They Want Mama to Make It All Better September 22:...9:55 PM in Continuing chaos, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (3)
DC Metro/ VA Down syndrome - pumpkin patch invitation!
Each year, the Blakeley Family gathers sponsors to treat families of children with Down syndrome to a wonderful day of food and fun: riding ponies and tractors, food and fun, oh yeah - and picking a pumpkin to take home. Click here for more information. Let's send this to...8:19 PM in Down syndrome, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)
The mortgage collapse/financial crisis - via Democrats and CRA
Reposting this since Warner Brothers claimed copyright infringement - but not before the video was viewed a half million times. You're going to be surprised at the history leading up to this debacle - and at the media cover-up. When it comes to corruption, graft and scandal, Republicans get exposed...6:28 PM in Campaign 2008, Continuing chaos, Culture, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (2)
Tripp's home, I'm keeping busy (health care rant)
I spent Thursday arguing with our insurance company. Tripp had knee replacement surgery Tuesday and while we thought he would go from the hospital into a rehab center, our insurance company decided he was recovering too well and too quickly to merit that kind of care. Memo to over-achievers: play...1:42 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
What's your experience of Flannery O'Connor?
Will someone please talk to me/enlighten me about Flannery O'Connor? She was someone I really wanted to read and thought I would like. But I just finished Wise Blood and honestly, it reminded me of a Coen Brothers movie (No Country for Old Men, Burn After Reading. Mmmm. Maybe they...9:31 AM in Books | Permalink | Comments (11)
Give Me Jesus - Fernando Ortega's Ruth Graham Tribute
Beth wrote me: I wholeheartedly agree with you on all this media/Palin stuff. And I support her and will vote for her and McCain... But, what it all boils down to is this: Give Me Jesus. No matter who wins in November, if I don't have Jesus, it is all...8:04 AM in Inspiration, Mothering, Music | Permalink | Comments (3)
Elisabeth Elliot: Does God allow poverty?
Does God Allow His Children to Be Poor? God allows both Christians and non-Christians to experience every form of suffering known to the human race, just as He allows His blessings to fall on both. Poverty, like other forms of suffering, is relative, as Lars and I were reminded...7:35 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Wasilla reader: Special needs poem
Barbara - My name is Tracey (Sandrock) Porreca. I live in Wasilla, Alaska and was originally drawn to your site just after Sarah Palin was nominated by John McCain. I have been hooked ever since. As the Alaskan mother of 2 children with special needs, I love reading your perspectives...6:02 AM in Disabilities, Down syndrome, Inclusion, Special education | Permalink | Comments (4)
September 27, 2008
Paul Newman RIP
Paul Newman died this morning. A Hollywood icon, his life was especially remarkable for his successful marriage to Joanne Woodward. Though it was his third marriage, the two had been married for 50 years. What was the secret to his long marriage? That question was repeated so often that...11:36 AM in Culture, Current Affairs, Movies | Permalink | Comments (2)
Win a copy of Mommy, Teach Me! - plus reviews
Jen, at Wildflowers and Marbles, is giving away one of my books, of which she writes:which she reviews: Mommy, Teach Me! by Barbara Curtis is a wonderful book that offers some really practical guidelines for using Montessori in the home with the younger set. Barbara is a trained Montessori...7:09 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 26, 2008
Loudoun Ballet - Peter and the Wolf this weekend at Franklin Park
This weekend at Franklin Park Performing Arts Center in Purcellville Peter and the Wolf The Loudoun Ballet Company's performance of Peter and the Wolf is a playful introduction to ballet which features enchanting music, fairy tale fantasy, clever costumes, and exciting theatrical make-up. The 25-minute ballet is directed for...8:25 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Boyz just wanna have fun
When our sons Zach and Ben emailed in the spring of 2007 to say they wanted to move off campus and rent a house with some friends the next year, our initial response was NO! Too expensive. Too distracting. Grades would suffer. Etc. But they sent us a very logical...7:15 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (7)
Financial crisis - Who is to blame?
For the past two days, I've been trying to formulate a simple description of what has led to our country's financial crisis. I wanted to put it in simple language because a lot of us are wandering through the cloud of media spin which is dedicated to protecting Democrats. Believe...10:37 AM in Campaign 2008, Continuing chaos, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (8)
Everyday miracles for mothers
With kids now in public school (though I homeschooled once upon a time) and living in the country, I drive my kids to the bus stop each morning. Today is pouring rain in northern Virginia - I love the rain! Justin is first out to catch the bus to Round...7:49 AM in Inspiration, Montessori, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (6)
Teaching kids to tie shoes
Rerunning this for the benefit of new readers: Meg asked about teaching kids to tie shoes. I have to admit, I find this one of the most daunting requirements of being a mother. I personally have always tied my own shoes the "wrong" way: by making two loops and then...7:46 AM in Montessori, Mothering, Practical Info, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (4)
September 25, 2008
Family of 15 left homeless by Hurricane Ike
A heart-wrenching story of a family with 13 children - 4 by birth and 9 by adoption - whose home was pretty much demolished by Hurricane Ink. With a baby requiring oxygen tanks, they are living in tents in their yard. See the video interview here. Read about the efforts...3:19 PM in Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (2)
Verizon wireless usage: Gone overtime? Call them.
Just passing on a little-known something I found out last month: Our family had gone overtime on minutes - easy to see why with all we had going on, I guess. I have no idea why I decided to call them as I had not reason to believe they would...10:26 AM in Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (2)
My memories of Fairbanks, Alaska
Little-known fact about me: I lived in Sarah Palin country when I was five years old! Here's how I wrote about it a few years ago in a book that went nowhere: When I was five, my dad took my mom, my little brother and me to live in Fairbanks,...10:07 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
LaShawn Barber: Alcee Hastings anti-Palin remarks and media double standards
More on my last post, Alcee Hastings on Sarah Palin - race-baiting: From LaShawn's post today entitled Sarah Palin hates blacks and Jews So implied Congressman Alcee Hastings, an impeached former federal judge, to an audience of Jewish liberals yesterday. . . . I'm no Sarah Palin apologist, but what...9:25 AM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (1)
Alcee Hastings on Sarah Palin - race-baiting
The Sarah Palin Outrage of the day: : Yesterday at the 2008 Democratic National Jewish Convention, Rep. Alcee Hastings told his receptive audience: "If Sarah Palin isn't enough of a reason for you to get over whatever your problem is with Barack Obama, then you damn well had better pay...8:56 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama double standard on equal pay for women
McCain has suspended his ads in recognition of the fact that we need to unite for a while to address our financial crisis (will discuss this in another post). But Obama is going full bore today. Just heard this ad on radio: You know, I let a lot of stuff...8:39 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 24, 2008
Palin supporters - join Team Sarah
Visit Team Sarah Martha Sears just invited me to join Team Sarah. Now I'm inviting you! I took two minutes to join - now passing it on to anyone here who'd like to join. Just go to Team Sarah. There are also subgroups - including Teachers, Students, Homeschoolers, ProLifers,...5:02 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
New to MommyLife?
For readers new to MommyLife, under my banner you will find: *Blogroll - clicking on anything there will take you to another blog which links to mine (if you link to me and are not on my Blogroll, please let me know and I will add you) *Categories - clicking...9:08 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (2)
Hymns for Kids - I Sing a Song of the Saints of God
I get up every morning not knowing what I will write about. Honestly. There's a Chinese proverb that reminds us that only an empty cup can be filled. I like to wake up as an empty cup and let God take me where He wills. I say this not with...7:09 AM in Homeschooling, Mothering, Music | Permalink | Comments (5)
September 23, 2008
Tripp's knee, new grandaughter, visit from Taiwan, other Curtis news
As of noon today, Tripp has a new knee. But he will be in recovery mode for a while. This is a first in our 25 years of marriage. Tripp is such a big, strong, capable kind of guy that it was really a funny/scary feeling seeing him post-op so...8:09 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
Frank Sinatra - Young at Heart
I've been singing this the past few days, so thought I ought to find it and share it. Isn't it beautiful?...8:07 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Bill Clinton on Sarah Palin
This is sweet. I mean it. Thanks, Bill! From the Seattle Times: Bill Clinton says he understands Palin's appeal Bill Clinton said Monday he understands why Sarah Palin is popular in the heartland: because people relate to her. By KAREN MATTHEWS Bill Clinton said Monday he understands why Sarah Palin...7:55 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (8)
SNL Incest Skit Video
If you haven't seen it yet, here is the offensive part of the Saturday Night Live Skit: Comments are intentionally closed on this post...the discussion is over here....11:55 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink
Palin fights corruption - Insider Alaskan view
Received this op-ed this morning from Seth Church, a business owner and plaintiff in the citizens-taxpayers' lawsuit against the Branchflower investigation. For more information go to: www.palinfightscorruption.com. Sarah Palin entered the Alaskan political scene during a time when rumors of oil and gas company improprieties were whispered about behind closed...5:55 AM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 22, 2008
Montessori Monday: Kid-friendly Art
My college kids were home this weekend - with two friends in tow - and they were so supportive and encouraging about our new home. Seeing the familiar pictures hung in new places helps us see them anew. And I was so touched by their acknowledgment that their home was...11:37 AM in Art, Homeschooling, Montessori, Montessori Mondays, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
Political cartoon: media wolves tearing at Palin
Amy sent this to me last week - in light of SNL's recent unspeakably vicious "humor" meant to further harm the Palins, maybe the cartoonist should add Saturday Night Live to the pack. I don't want you to miss the cartoon below that just landed on my desk. It was...6:36 AM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (4)
Saturday Night Live "spoofs" Palin incest
In the Sarah Palin Outrage of the Day series, this one really brought me to tears. Where has our country gone that this madness of double standards can continue? They cloak their attacks in "humor" - but can you imagine such a "skit" directed at Obama? NBC jokes: Todd Palin...6:13 AM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (30)
September 20, 2008
I'm hosting a Palin Party - will you?
Just had a thought - I've been too tired this week to stay up to watch the Hannity/Palin interview with Tripp. And this weekend is a flurry of cooking for extra people, taking care of Jonny, clearing out our old house, and battening down the hatches before Tripp's surgery Tuesday....11:02 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (14)
September 19, 2008
Rangel calls Palin "disabled" - Dems desperate?
I know I already did the Sarah Palin Outrage of the Day, but they keep coming in: Don't know if you all have been keeping up with Ol' Charlie Rangel, but he is the disgrace - or would be if Democrats ever were help accountable for anything. He is under...10:44 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (5)
My life - a lot going on behind the scenes
Okay, in the aftermath of Hurricane Sarah - which stimulated a lot of ideas/opportunities for me to write about some things dear to my heart - I am trying to get back on track. The only problem is there are so many tracks to get back on. So just to...5:32 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (12)
Sandra Bernhard on Palin: hate speech
Palin Outrage of the Day (I hesitated about this one because it is intense and vile and you don't want your kids around, but I think it's important for EVERYONE - regardless of your political persuasion - to see how desperate and full of hatred the Left truly is. And...1:11 PM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (21)
September 18, 2008
Anti-Palin assignment, student harrassment by professor
Anti-Palin Outrage of the Day: Of course, it's hard to choose - saving a few for tomorrow....4:19 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 17, 2008
New survivor series - men play mom - funny!
THE NEXT SURVIVOR SERIES Six married men will be dropped on an island with one car and 3 kids each for six weeks. Each kid will play two sports and either take music or dance classes. There is no fast food. Each man must take care of his 3 kids;...10:15 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (10)
Obama's voting record
Barbara, You are so well informed politically that I thought you might be able to help me. A while back, I'd heard criticism about Obama and the number of times he abstained from voting on various bills, etc. saying that he was apathetic or unwilling to make a firm decision...9:54 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (3)
Dishwasher Magic - clean glasses, yay!
Just in case any of my readers are also country dwellers who are blessed to have their own well water but have to deal with too many minerals - resulting in glasses that never look clean, here's a miracle product I came across in Lowe's last year. (Home Depot...9:22 PM in Practical Info, Product Reviews | Permalink | Comments (3)
Hack attack on Palin's email - yet another outrage
In what is becoming a chain of daily outrages: Palin's E-Mail Account Hacked, Published on Web Site by FOXNews.com Wednesday, September 17, 2008 In the latest of a series of invasions into Sarah Palin's personal life, hackers have broken into the Republican vice presidential candidate's private e-mail account, and a...6:35 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
Add MommyLife widget for news
A few of you have added MommyLife widgets to your blogs, so I thought I'd run this again: Too busy to post every day? Need a way to add more dimension to your blog and better serve your readers? Here's a widget you can post in your sidebar which will...5:08 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (3)
Father dies saving son with Down syndrome
From the Washington Post, September 10: Father Who Died Saving Son Known for Sacrifice by Joseph Mummolo If you ever ran into Nokesville dad Thomas S. Vander Woude, chances are you would also see his son Joseph. Whether Vander Woude was volunteering at church, coaching basketball or working on his...3:55 PM in Down syndrome, Everyday Heroes, Fathers, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
Loudoun County Animal Shelter - Special Event 9/20
Homeward Bound 2008: Black Tie & Tails Ball Saturday, September 20 Noon to Midnight Captivating kitties and dapper dogs will strut their stuff in hopes of finding new homes during the Loudoun County Animal Shelter's Black Tie & Tails Ball, a 12-hour adoption marathon happening Saturday, September 20, 2008....3:44 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Babytalk wants photos of babies with Down syndrome
A Special Joy 7: Babies With Down Syndrome In honor of National Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October, we're showcasing photos of your beautiful babies, who happen to have Down Syndrome. We'll be unveiling another gallery soon, so stay tuned. Go to Babytalk to send yours!...3:29 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's staff: women earn less - McCain's earn more
From Obama only talks good game on gender pay equity, by Deroy Murdock: On average, according to these data, women in John McCain's office make $1.04 for every dollar a man makes. In fact, all other things being equal, a typical female staffer could earn 21 cents more per dollar...3:20 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0)
Bloggers - how do you handle negative attacks?
I asked Jen if I could post this to get thoughts from other bloggers. Hi Barbara, Thanks for the nice comment! I have been blogging for a year and a half and yesterday morning I received three very unsettling comments from "Anonymous". These were in response to the video of...2:57 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (1)
Britain adopts Islamic law, Sharia courts
While we're distracted with elections, Sharia law has made a mighty advance in Britain: Britain Adopts Islamic Law, Gives Sharia Courts Full Power to Rule on Civil Cases Monday, September 15, 2008 Islamic law has been officially adopted in Britain, with sharia courts given powers to rule on Muslim civil...1:10 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (3)
Ad attacks Obama's support of infanticide
Featured in the ad above is Gianna Jensen, who readers may recall meeting at MommyLife June 30, 2006 when I wrote Stunning Rebuke of Planned Parenthood . Just as Gianna has been sharing her point of view for years before this election cycle, the questions on Obama's ethics and...12:23 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
September 16, 2008
Preschool at home - Mommy, Teach Me! photos
Along with Stephanie's endorsement of my book - see Why Preschool? Why Not Home? - she sent me a picture of her not-quite-three-year-old son at work, which I included in the Mommy, Teach Me! web album with the following caption: Stephanie's son Noah (almost three) working on pattern blocks -...3:15 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Why preschool? Why not home?
Bad news the other day: My book, The Mommy Manual has been dropped by Revell Books. So add to the mass of stuff on my backburners: finding a new publisher. God always makes sure I get good news to buffet the bad. Received this email the same day: Dear Barbara,...2:41 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (5)
CBS says Sarah Palin "phenomenon" is Doomed
That's right, folks. From our trusted unbiased manistream media - which has now become the official prognosticator of current events: The Sarah Palin Phenomenon Is Doomed It still doesn't seem to have occurred to them - even as they've lost millions in advertising revenue and had to cut thousands of...6:08 AM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 15, 2008
Why I am a single-issue voter
And not apologetic in the least. The way I see it, if you don't start with a respect for human life - if you think babies are disposable - then your talk of caring for the "least of these" is but a sounding gong. If you think unplanned babies are...9:56 PM in Campaign 2008, Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (5)
Believers for Barack - believers in what?
Obama campaign rolls out new 'faith merchandise' (CNN) - The Obama campaign is preparing rolling out a new line of "faith merchandise" - the latest move in an ambitious effort to win over religious voters. "Check out the Believers for Barack, Pro-Family Pro-Obama, and Catholics for Obama buttons, bumper...9:50 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
McCain more bipartisan - Obama getting desperate
From the Washington Times: Records show McCain more bipartisan Stephen Dinan Monday, September 15, 2008 ANALYSIS: Sen. John McCain's record of working with Democrats easily outstrips Sen. Barack Obama's efforts with Republicans, according to an analysis by The Washington Times of their legislative records. Whether looking at bills they have...9:20 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2)
Galveston - Glen Campbell song
This song has been running through my mind ever since the warnings started. Not being a Texan, all I knew was this song Glenn Campbell sang back in the 60's. Oh, and somewhere in the back of my mind that the 1900 Galveston Flood was the worst natural disaster ever...9:08 PM in Current Affairs, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Brokaw using Jesus/community organizer/Pontius Pilate/governor Democratic talking points
Has anyone missed this latest comparison of Obama to Jesus? I guess this means that Sarah Palin is like the person responsible for allowing Jesus to be crucified? Reputedly originally used by a commenter at a Washington Post blog, this has been pciked up by Donna Brazil, Susan Sarandon and...4:02 PM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (3)
Coping with the aftermath of Ike
King of Fools, who happens to have been my BogGuru for over three years (thank you so much!) reports on the aftermath of Ike at his house in Texas: My favorite: Coping with no power: mouth to mouth for the fish...3:38 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (2)
Palin, McCain stop/meet girl with Down syndrome and family
Family with Down Syndrome Child Meets John McCain and Sarah Palin I heard this dad call into Rush last week to recount his meeting with Sarah Palin. Since then, Rush has posted the transcript and picture to his site - thanks, Cathy for sending me the link. Martha also...2:36 PM in Campaign 2008, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 14, 2008
Apron Power! contest 2009
I've been receiving some email lately asking me to revive our Apron Power! Contest - one from a Baby magazine in the Philippines. Here's a heads-up that I DO plan to launch the 2009 Apron Power! Contest after the New Year. Will be collecting pictures, then putting them up for...8:50 AM in Apron Power! | Permalink | Comments (0)
Palin cartoons
Several people have sent me a LONG series of Palin cartoons Thanks Tripp, Kari, Emma! My favorite: You can see all of them at Culture 11....8:04 AM in Campaign 2008, Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)
September 13, 2008
Timely vintage political movies
Von reminded me of Mr. Smith Goes to Washington: But I'd add Meet John Doe: Available from Netflix, or possibly from your library....11:48 AM in Campaign 2008, Movies | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 12, 2008
Obama and Palin - a comparison
Even though they're running for different offices, the comparison is helpful since Gov. Palin is being attacked for not being ready to hold the office of Presidency. Want to see the differences clearly? Click the link below: Sarah Palin vs. Barack Obama Don't forget, by the way, that they're...5:38 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (5)
Early readers - need your recommendations
Okay, I am determined to get my life back to normal :) Which means to start back at the oldest emails in my Inbox (200 in all) and answer them. Maybe you can help by answering a few for me: Hi Barbara, I know you are out of town and...5:27 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Preschoolers, Reading | Permalink | Comments (14)
Loudoun County Public Schools victory!
On the local front, students at our local high school in Purcellville have been dealing with such horrendous overcrowding for years that the 9th grade was long ago relocated to join with 8th grade to form an "intermediate" school. For years 10th grade students have not been included in school...3:32 PM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (2)
Hubris - a definition
After Charles Gibson's grilling/prosecution of Palin last night, in which he accused her of hubris, a couple readers have mentioned having to check a dictionary to find the meaning of the word. And for those who already are familiar with the media's Word du Jour (remember when with Bush/Cheney it...2:07 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (4)
MommyLife - Twitter feed now available
I thank God for younger people in my life who can keep my up-to-speed on what I need to do next and how to do it - like my son Zach who turned me on to Firefox, helped me switch to gmail, and keeps me up-to-date on Indy music....2:03 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (5)
Trig Palin - new focus on Down syndrome
Culture 11 is a new online magazine/social network that was started by Bill Bennett, David Kuo, and Steve Forbes. An article published at Culture 11 during their brief existence in the fall of 2008: We've come a long way, Baby Trig! How baby Palin will change the discussion about children...10:25 AM in Campaign 2008, Down syndrome, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (6)
9/11 remembrance
Thank you to the readers who sent me these yesterday. Get out your hankies - I do think it's important - especially as the media has worked so hard to suppress the outrage we initially (and rightfully) felt - to remember how this event impacted individuals, families, and our nation....9:52 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Charles Gibson / Sarah Palin interview - more grilling by the prosecution
I have just NEVER seen anything like this. They've always grilled Republicans more, but if you're a woman Republican (or a black Republican like Clarence Thomas) evidently you are beneath the elites in the media (or Hollywood). So clumsy and obvious.I predict this is going to only strengthen support...9:27 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
Charles Gibson / Sarah Palin interview - Part 2
Charlie GRILLS Sarah on her beliefs, using footage they dug up from a talk she gave at her church. How dare she assume that our country is on the right side in the war!!!! How dare she assume that God is involved!!! She answers with words from Abraham Lincoln:...9:13 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
Charles Gibson / Sarah Palin interview - Part 1
Catching up on this interview this morning. It is quite remarkable. The roar of the mainstream media over the fact that they didn't vet Sarah Palin - has reminded me of hungry sharks waiting for some chum. In this interview you will see Charles Gibson accuse Sarah Palin of hubris...8:30 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (12)
September 11, 2008
McCain/Palin rally Fairfax 9/10 photos
My daughter Maddy, her friend JC, and I went to the rally yesterday McCain What a wonderful time we had! And a big thanks to the Fairfax School Board, which voted in emergency session not to allow the McCain campaign to hold their rally as scheduled at Fairfax High School...2:36 PM in Campaign 2008, My life | Permalink | Comments (11)
McCain ad defends Palin against wolves
Rush Limbaugh is in the background, saying what I've been thinking all along. They hate Sarah Palin for the simple reason of all she represents. Her standing on a stage holding her baby with Down syndrome is enough to send shivers down the spine of those who've advocated partial...1:41 PM in Campaign 2008, Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama on Letterman - presidential material?
Did you know Obama was on Letterman last night, yucking it up about losing his star quality (being replaced by Palin on magazine covers), the "silliness" of political campaigns - every one else's, of course, not his - and waxing eloquent on how he would have handled 9/11. I checked...12:11 PM in Campaign 2008, Complaint Department, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (5)
9/11 Where were you?
On September 11, 2001 we were living in California. I'd gotten up at 6:30 to start the day and get my boys off to school (St. Vincent's Catholic High School in Petaluma). Everything was habit: a stop in the laundry room to put in a load of laundry, then to...10:46 AM in Culture, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (7)
More signs of Democrat implosion, but "the world" still loves them best
On the floor of the United States House of Representatives, broadcast on C=Span for all the world to see, Rep. Steve Cohen of Memphis, Tennessee compares Obama to Jesus - a "community organizer" - and Sarah Palin to Pontius Pilate, who also was a governor: From an ABC report yesterday:...8:32 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (1)
September 10, 2008
Do we care what matt Damon thinks of Sarah Palin?
I guess Associated Press does. Another voice from the Hollywood Intelligentsia - like they have the slightest lue what's going on. Frankly, if I were a candidate, I'd be embarrassed if these people were FOR me....7:35 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (12)
Obama: lipstick and lies
I wasn't going to get into this because it was just so creepy. But what concerns is the aftermath: Obama - who's typically so self-righteous about being morally superior to other candidates - instead of admitting that he struck a new low, decides to play the poor, petulant picked-on...5:59 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (16)
September 9, 2008
Media bias - could it get any worse?
I guess we shouldn't be surprised. The left wing fringe and media have united in a search and destroy mission to take down Sarah Palin. Democrats have sent a cadre of attorneys to fan out through Alaska to find any dirt they can on Alaska's Governor, who holds an 80-90%...1:28 PM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (9)
Sarah Palin rocks the voters
McCain Campaign Crowds Grow Exponentially The 'Palin Factor' Bringing Excitement and Bigger Crowds to McCain Events By BRET HOVELL Sept. 9, 2008 -- At John McCain's rally in the town of Lee's Summit, Mo., there were more people standing outside than were able to fit inside. That kind of crowd...12:33 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2)
Sliming Palin - check the facts with Newsweek
Kudos to Newsweek for posting the FACTS in the face of lies circulating the Internet. Please bookmark this link and pass it on so your family and friends will have a respected source to rebut the unrelenting assault of hyperbole/misrepresentation/lies we will continue to experience as the Democrats and the...11:01 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2)
Men: why they like Sarah Palin
Dear Barbara, Thank you for your article "Palin can have it all". For 8 years, I was a single dad with 1/2 time custody of my little girl starting from 10mos of age. I have developed an appreciation, respect and devotion to the equal rights movement. I am appalled that...9:26 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (6)
McCain Palin rally - Fairfax VA 9/10 tickets
Click here for ticket information and map...8:01 AM in Campaign 2008, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 8, 2008
My Millionth Visitor
Date: September 8 Time: 7:51:10 My time EST - 6:51:10 yours Someone from Saint Louis MO whose server is charter.com and who linked through Maple Grove. If that's you, email me. You're too far away for dinner, but I'll send you my books. Home from Samantha's baby shower and...10:18 PM in Blogging, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)
Millionth update - almost there
You know that commercial Sometimes Life Comes At Ya Fast? How I wish it were only sometimes. Sorry for the lack of news, updates and items of interest today. I left this morning with a ton of errands to run, came home to get Justin off the bus, wrap the...4:17 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
September 7, 2008
Piper Palin - early signs of leadership in kids
One of my kids was like this more than any other. I will never forget how Maddy - my ninth - would run ahead of the family when we were out, saying, "I the leader." Or summon waiters to our table to order more guacamole. Always self-assured and confident -...6:52 PM in Campaign 2008, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (9)
1,000,000 visits tomorrow
I can hardly believe that my sitemeter now has counted 997,311 visits to MommyLife since April 1, 2005 (actual blog birthday January 15, but I didn't have sitemeter then). Which means tomorrow I will break a million. Who woulda thunk it? Anyway, if you are the millionth visitor, I will...4:46 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (12)
Piper Palin for President
3:00 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (2)
September 6, 2008
Why this Democrat will vote for Sarah Palin
A link from Julana of Life in the Slow Lane: A vote for Sarah Palin - by Suann Therese Maier, who concludes: I will vote for Sarah Palin because I don't need the Democratic platform's belated affirmation of motherhood. Thanks, but I already know that motherhood is good, several times...7:38 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (8)
Down syndrome: mother/child pictures
Sarah Palin's candidacy is opening a number of long overdue conversations - including what it means to have a child with Down syndrome. Seeing a baby with Down syndrome being loved by his entire family has hopefully helped people rethink the culturally conditioned fear surrounding this prenatal diagnosis, which currently...6:07 PM in Campaign 2008, Disabilities, Down syndrome, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
Swinging on a Star
Maddy had dance class this morning and the Boyz and I had to go out in the deluge to pick her up. Which reminds me: I love rain!!! Sophia says she's having a hard time at college because she's not used to using an umbrella. I guess I didn't emphasize...1:25 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
Dear Mr. Obama - message from a vet
First, a word from the producer of this video: Some have suggested that the McCain Campaign paid for this ad. Nothing could be further from the truth. McCain would never use soldiers for political gain. He has honored them, but he will not use them. Unlike the Obama who has...1:13 PM in Campaign 2008, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (2)
Bristol Palin: a second look at her future
A link from Martha: What Our Daughters Must Know by Dr. Miriam Grossman, M.D. With the brouhaha over Bristol Palin's pregnancy, here's a plus no one's considered: should this young woman go to college as a married mom, she'll be spared four years of the campus hook-up culture. That's no...1:06 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (5)
Loudoun emergency information
Office of Emergency Management Update on Tropical Storm Hanna For my Loudoun readers - as we are being deluged today. Click above for updates and bookmark for future reference....12:47 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
September 5, 2008
Oprah shuns Sarah Palin - ABC asks 'Is Oprah biased?'
Oprah fans are clamoring for her to do a show with Sarah Palin, but Oprah refuses. Her excuse: she doesn't want to get involved with politics. She's gonna wait until after the campaign. But Oprah's already involved in politics - as a campaigner and fundraiser for Obama, whom she's...11:15 PM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (18)
Husbands of hard-working moms weigh in on Palin
Anthony from San Antonio, Texas writes: Thank you for your kinds words about Sarah Palin. My wife also works 12 hour shifts as a critical care nurse and makes time to home school our two teenage boys at home. She also makes time to help out with bible classes and...11:18 AM in Campaign 2008, Marriage | Permalink | Comments (14)
Martha Sears endorses Sarah Palin
Martha forwarded me a reply she sent to someone involved in Attachment Parenting who asked her what she thought about Dr. Laura's negative take on Sarah Palin's candidacy. In addition to being the mother of 8 - including a son with Down syndrome - Martha is wife of Dr....11:04 AM in Campaign 2008, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (5)
Loudoun County Public Schools inclusion: token or authentic?
Note to public school parents in Loudoun County and elsewhere: Inclusion does not mean bringing a group of special needs kids into art class or the cafeteria and having them sit clumped together at their own table with only their assistant's attention. This is stigmatizing and certainly not in the...9:44 AM in Disabilities, Inclusion, Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (1)
PHC hosts film premiere 9/6 at Franklin Park
Patrick Henry College is hosting the premiere of this unique film today - so if you're anywhere near Purcellville - make your reservations now: Come What May follows the story of a college student, Caleb, who transfers to compete on PHC's championship moot court team and gets caught in...9:28 AM in Homeschooling, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)
Can Sarah Palin have it all?
I was invited to answer this question for the Christian Science Monitor, which published my response yesterday: Sarah Palin can have it all by Barbara Curtis from the September 5, 2008 edition Bluemont, Va. - The five children. The newborn diagnosed with Down syndrome. The pregnant daughter. Sarah Palin's life...8:31 AM in Big families, Campaign 2008, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (19)
September 4, 2008
Random pictures from the past two weeks
Random is the only word I can think of to describe these: A walking stick the boys and I found on the side of our house. Have you ever seen one? It really does look like a stick: A collage I put together for Sophia right after she left for...9:43 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (3)
An upside to the economic downturn
Readers who've been here a while know that our family's journey took a turn this summer when we realized after a couple years of not being able to sell our house that it would have to go into foreclosure. We'd been borrowing to make the payments and with the house...8:46 PM in Current Affairs, My life | Permalink | Comments (2)
Palin and Trig pictures - and more!
This is just one of 40 pictures of Real Mom Sarah Palin posted by my friend Carol at Parenting Freedom. You probably want to go over to see more :) Thanks, Carol! And thanks Terri for the tip!...6:39 PM in Campaign 2008, Down syndrome, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (5)
Loudoun gun owners - free safety locks
The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office is encouraging gun owners to pick up free safety kits. The agency has over 1000 gunlocks that were donated to them by Project ChildSafe, a nationwide firearms safety education program in an effort to prevent gun accidents in the homes of county residents. The safety...6:33 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kansas Milkmaid is back to blogging!
I am back! Posted August 28, 2008 @ 11:06 pm | 7 Comments | Greetings from the Kansas Milkmaid!! After several months of silence, I had anticipated that the ministry of the Kansas Milkmaid would be long forgotten. It has been nearly nine months since my last entry. A great...6:11 PM in KS Milkmaid | Permalink | Comments (0)
Bushy brows are back?
Who decides this stuff? Bushy eyebrows are back By Emili Vesilind, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer August 31, 2008 STEP away from the tweezers. The tapered, pin-thin eyebrows you've been meticulously sculpting every week since the '90s are looking about as dated as a Menudo T-shirt. Read entire article, if...6:02 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (0)
Sarah Palin - advocate for Down syndrome, special needs
Every family or friend of a person with Down syndrome would love to see the footage of the love showered on baby Trig - Sarah Palin's fifth child, who has Down syndrome - by his siblings last night I loved the close ups of the youngest daughter cradling Trig...9:34 AM in Campaign 2008, Disabilities, Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (25)
Sarah Palin's RNC speech video - what a winner!
Republican National Convention Sarah Palin Speech Republican National Convention Sarah Palin Speech Part 2: Republican National Convention Sarah Palin Speech Part 3: Republican National Convention Sarah Palin Speech Part 4:...8:42 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (7)
More Vision Forum nonsense on Sarah Palin
For a picture of the arrogance and presumption that Doug Phillips has fostered in his devotees, check out this open letter from Rebecca Morecraft to Sarah Palin plastered all over the Vision Forum network today: A Letter of Encouragement to Vice Presidential Candidate Sarah Palin from a Sister in the...8:06 AM in Campaign 2008, Church Issues, Spiritual abuse | Permalink | Comments (21)
September 3, 2008
Sarah Palin - assorted commentary
A Time Warped Sexist Assault By Andrea Peyser September 3, 2008 HOLY hoop skirts: When did the clock tick back to 1958? When Joe Biden tragically lost his wife and infant daughter in a car wreck in 1972, not a single colleague, friend or competitor advised him to quit...3:19 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (4)
Us magazine covers - disgraceful media bias
Drudge titles this Us casts its vote: Did you know the Drudge Report has had 6,303,884,009 - that's 6 billion, not 6 million - visits last year? I started using Drudge to get the real scoop in 1998. Back then the Mainstream Media did its best to tear down what...2:18 PM in Campaign 2008, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (8)
Hattie update - not good news.
Josh just called. Instead of removing one small tumor from Hattie's lung, as the surgeon had hoped, they had to remove the top half of Hattie's lung. They also found three small tumors on the lower half and three on her heart - all of which are now removed. As...1:58 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (21)
praying for Hattie this morning
Hattie is in surgery as I write. I will let you know how things go and when the next operation will be. Josh and Hattie were over on Labor Day. Hard to believe how different the last year has been from what they expected when they married two years ago....7:57 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (12)
September 2, 2008
Palin - how can she do it all?
Well, for one thing - she's a babywearin' mama!...3:04 PM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (6)
Obama wouldn't want his daughter "punished" with a baby
I wrote about this in March, when many people were too busy living their real lives to notice: Words reveal the heart - truly they do. Who could have predicted the contrast when Republicans would have a woman - almost a megamom - running for Vice President who calls babies...12:41 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Pondering Palin - my article today at Crosswalk
Pondering Palin Barbara Curtis Contributing Writer September 2, 2008 The backlash against Sarah Palin was to be expected. From the Left, that is. What has been surprising is the condemnation by conservative Christians who see her VP nomination as a Trojan horse to capture our votes even as our...11:54 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (9)
Palin's political record - Alaskans love her!
From my Inbox this morning - a forwarded letter from Wasilla, Alaska, Sarah Palin's hometown: Sarah Palin is the US's answer to Margaret Thatcher! Anyone who thinks she cannot handle the job or deal briskly and efficiently with ANY issue, including foreign governments ... well, they haven't met our...7:36 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (11)
September 1, 2008
Palin Family - the face of modern pro-life America
Because being pro-life is more than a theory - it's a way of life that honors and accepts the unexpected surprises God bless and keep this lovely family Thank you, God for giving us a TRUE pro-life candidate - one who doesn't see babies as punishments and one who...2:28 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (5)
Palins announce daughter is pregnant now - Kos lied
Well, I guess this proves that Daily Kos was lying. Breaking news: Gov. Palin Says Her Unmarried 17-Year-Old Daughter Is Pregnant September 01, 2008 12:28 PM "We have been blessed with five wonderful children who we love with all our heart and mean everything to us," reads the statement from...1:07 PM in Campaign 2008, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (14)
Montessori Mondays - praising the child
I was wondering what Montessori has to say about praising the child? I've just been reading some Alfie Kohn articles and am a bit confused, as what he says does make sense.. and I am one parent who has been brought up with 'good girl!' and all that, and...7:52 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Montessori Mondays, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)
