February 2009
February 28, 2009
The Miracle Worker - must see family movie
Since we're on the subject of teaching children about disabilities, here's a great way to start - The Miracle Worker">The Miracle Worker: This is the final scene from the brilliant movie of Helen Keller's early life. Helen Keller's wealthy family had hired Annie Sullivan to help their daughter - blind,...9:18 AM in Disabilities, Movies | Permalink | Comments (3)
Bluemont VA weather forecast - no global warming here
Yesterday was nearly 60 degrees here - we celebrated by opening the blinds (shut to conserve warmth) and the kids didn't need urging to play outside! The heaters were off all day.This morning - Brrr! And here is the crazy forecast: 34° F | 23° F 31° F | 20°...8:46 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 27, 2009
Children's books on disabilities
Another book round-up, to complete the series Books on Down syndrome for parents and Children's books on Down syndrome. I have linked to Amazon so you can read more about these books and if you buy them there, a small percentage comes back to support this site. But mostly...8:59 PM in Books, Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (4)
Keep informed: Conservative news links
This is from A Mac and a Mug o' Joe, who you may recognize as someone I often thank for sending me leads:Greetings Barbara! In response to your post Raising politically aware and confident teens, here are some more of the places I visit with my cup of coffee in the...4:48 PM in Current Affairs, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Host a city kid this summer!
The Fresh Air Fund needs hosts for the Summer of 2009Host a Child Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City's toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air vacations. More than 65% of...2:00 PM in Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (0)
Conservatives seeking divorce + settlement
Dear American liberals, leftists, social progressives, socialists, Marxists and Obama supporters, et al:We have stuck together since the late 1950's, but the whole of this latest election process has made me realize that I want a divorce. I know we tolerated each other for many years for the sake of...1:56 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (7)
Loudoun Tree Photo Contest
The Loudoun County Arbor Day Committee is sponsoring the 12th Annual "Favorite Loudoun Tree Photo Contest" to draw attention to some of Loudoun County's most precious assets. This year, Arbor Day will be held at Oatlands on Saturday, April 18, 2009, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Oatlands, a National...1:42 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Lououn Arbor Day celebration March 12
2008 Loudoun Arbor Day Celebration Saturday, April 12 The 20th Annual Loudoun Arbor Day Celebration will be held Saturday, April 12, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, just 5 miles south of Leesburg. (Turn right off Evergreen Mills Road onto The Woods Road. The...1:34 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Dirty Car Art
April sent this - there are a few life lessons/metaphors here, I'm sure - feel free to share the ones you come up with: THIS is SCOTT WADE. Check out what he does with the dirty cars by carefully and artfully removing portions of the dirt. According to his web...1:17 PM in Art, Fun Stuff, Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
Go green: reusable toilet wipes
From the UK Guardian: American taste for soft toilet roll 'worse than driving Hummers' Extra-soft, quilted and multi-ply toilet roll made from virgin forest causes more damage than gas-guzzlers, fast food or McMansions, say campaigners The tenderness of the delicate American buttock is causing more environmental devastation than the...10:47 AM in Continuing chaos | Permalink | Comments (14)
February 26, 2009
Hair gray, hooray!
Y'all know I've been growing out my gray since last April - resulting in a very strange color combo. As I said, I was inspired by women I saw whose silver-streaked hair looked quite beautiful, but mine just didn't seem to be measuring up. I decided a couple weeks...9:54 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (41)
Raising politically aware and confident teens
The difference between conservative and liberal teens - in general - is that conservative teens know how to think, analyze and discuss. Contrary to the stereotype that they are just echoing their parents' views - as one of Maddy's teachers recently opined in Latin class - most of them...10:31 AM in Homeschooling, Loudoun County, Obama Nation, Public schools, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (13)
American Idol - my picks: Adam, Megan, Allison
Well, if anyone thought last week was bad. . . . Last night's American Idol was horrendous. What in the world is going on? During the lead-up auditions and Hollywood, it seemed like there was a lot of talent heading into the new season. Last week there were only...10:18 AM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (3)
How Obama won - diagram, analysis
Amazing stuff from American Thinker:February 26, 2009 How He Did It: A Diagrammatic Analysis of the Obama Campaign By Paul Shlichta "All issues are political issues, and politics itself is a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred, and schizophrenia." ---George Orwell. The audacity and speed with which Obama railroaded...8:37 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Matthews greets Jindal's appearance: "Oh, God"
In case you missed this: Matthews has spent the past year jockeying for position as Obama's Number One cheerleader. Remember the tingle up the leg? Or Matthews' boasting of MSNBC's role in getting Obama elected? Our Mainstream Media is as propagandist as any totalitarian government ever was. And just as...8:25 AM in Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (8)
Chaput warns against "spirit of adulation" re Obama
Bookmark & ShareTo:From:Note: EmailFavoritesDiggDel.icio.usMySpaceGoogleFacebookLiveYahoo BuzzStumbleUponTwitterMore ...Denver archbishop warns against 'spirit of adulation' surrounding Obamavar addthis_pub="jzapata"; Toronto, Canada, Feb 23, 2009 / 09:03 pm (CNA).- Canadians packed St. Basil's Church in Toronto on Monday evening to hear Archbishop Charles Chaput speak about how Catholics should live out their faith in the public...7:36 AM in Catholicism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 25, 2009
Babies laughing - you know you need this
Thanks, Jane!...10:23 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (7)
February 24, 2009
Daily Front Pages from around the world
These are papers from China and France, but what I really want you to see is The Newseum: Today's Front Pages where you can access front pages from newspapers in towns across the United States (as well as other countries)....8:26 PM in Current Affairs, Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (1)
Conference on Faith and Disabilities 2/28 Landover, MD
In God's Image: Conference on Faith, Deafness and Disabilities Opening Doors to Possibilities Saturday, Feb. 28 9-4 PM, Center for Deaf Ministries, Landover Hills Sponsored by the Archdiocese of Washington and Potomac Community Resources, Inc. Full Conference Brochure and Registration at www.adw.org (Events Page) or at www.pcr-inc.org All Are...6:21 PM in Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (0)
American Tea Party: anti-Obama protests growing
Schedule of Tea Party Protests here America is on the brink of another revolution. In a new American Tea Party, citizens across the USA are beginning to protest giant government programs that reach deep into their pockets. These programs create huge economic burdens on American families and threaten their...3:22 PM in Activism, Obama Nation, Tea Party USA | Permalink | Comments (2)
U. S. currency - Presidential portraits
From Shannon:America - Land of the free, courtesy of the braveGeorge Washington, our nation's first president and leader of the American Revolution! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Abe Lincoln, our most honorable leader pull our nation through its darkest time! -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alexander Hamilton, founding father, first secretary of the treasure and leader of the...1:27 PM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Meet Marybeth Hicks for tea - March 29, Tyson's Corner
Click here to Register Online or send by mail: Individual or Table of 10...12:56 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Sharing the load - families and housework
Here's a strategy to bring out the best in every member of the family: Four questions - to be asked about anything that needs to be done: Can he do it himself? Is your child able to dress himself? To clean his room? To clean up his own place...12:21 PM in Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (3)
Children helping at home - a beautiful thing!
Dear Barbara, I searched for a post on your blog to comment on but didn't find one right away that seemed suitable, so I thought I'd shoot you a quick email before I get moving on to the rest of the day! For history sake, my mom gave me...12:15 PM in Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Welcome Father Escalante!
We have a new administrator at St. Francis de Sales. While it hurt to say goodbye to Father Kelly, we are grateful to Bishop Loverde for sending us someone so quickly. It would appear that Father Escalante has a sense of humor to rival our late pastor's: Effective Wednesday, February...11:56 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)
Red envelope campaign - send Obama an abortion reminder
The Red Envelope Campaign by Diane Singer The Point, 2/11/09Facebook users may have run across an advertisement for the Red Envelope Campaign (Facebook membership may be required to view the link), a way to let our new president hear our pro-life voices. It's a simple concept: just buy (or make out...11:40 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Newsweek got it wrong: We're All Fascists Now II
Part II of We're All Fascists Now: We're All Fascists Now II: American Tyranny Posted By Michael Ledeen On February 14, 2009 @ 12:21 pm Most Americans no longer read Alexis de Tocqueville's masterpiece, Democracy in America, about which I wrote a book (Tocqueville on American Character; from which most...11:20 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's vision not socialism, but fascism
We Are All Fascists Now Posted By Michael Ledeen On February 12, 2009 @ 1:38 pm Newsweek magazine, which has given us many of the most damaging deceptions about America in recent years (remember the Koran-Down-the-Toilet hoax?), now weighs in with a pretentious and embarrassingly ignorant cover story, We...11:09 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Elisabeth Elliot on Childlessness
The Childless Man or WomanChildren, God tells us, are a heritage from Him. Is the man or woman to whom He gives no children therefore disinherited? Surely not. The Lord gave portions of land to each tribe of Israel except one. "The tribe of Levi... received no holding; the...10:50 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Catholic/Christian art
A great collection of images for making e-cards, which you can even send with music: Holy Postage This painting is by Carl Heinrich Bloch (1834-1890) Thanks, Therese! I've bookmarked. Readers, don't forget you can use the Share button below to send this on to your friends and family too....10:36 AM in Art | Permalink | Comments (0)
Sarah Palin reprise
Working through the oldest messages in my Inbox this morning. This may seem old news, but it made me smile, reminding me that there are leaders with common sense who are not all about power and double standards:...9:59 AM in Campaign 2008 | Permalink | Comments (0)
Milton Freidman - Socialism vs. Capitalism
Just posted at YouTube, this is a timely reminder. In all confusion/chaos of the new administration - purposely stirred, I believe, so that they can overthrow capitalism - this is a good reminder. It also explains why O&Co are so into humbling/punishing CEOs of private corporations while they are...8:25 AM in Current Affairs, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
WD-40, a mom's best friend - well, one of them at least :)
Bookmark & ShareTo:From:Note: EmailFavoritesDiggDel.icio.usMySpaceGoogleFacebookLiveYahoo BuzzStumbleUponTwitterMore ... Official List of 2000+ UsesFrom Gum, Sticker and Crayon Removal, to Cleaning Grease and Corrosion Protection!Removes crayon from carpet Removes coffee stains from floor tiles Removes marks from floors left by chair feet Removes adhesive price tags from shoe bottoms Cleans black streaks from hardwood...7:24 AM in Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (0)
Gmail server down
6:30 am EST - Gmail has apparently been down worldwide for over an hour.Back up just as I posted this - I guess this is like taking a sick kid to the doctor. Well, those gmailers out there who slept in this morning - this really happened. Hope it was...6:12 AM in | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 22, 2009
ELF cosmetics
As a follow-up to my apology about the ELF cosmetics misinformation:You can cancel your order - just contact Customer Care asking them to cancel and they will - but do it NOW!...10:56 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Ben and Anna's wedding shower
This is what it looks like when the Curtis Family and the Walraven family arrive somewhere at the same time. Only there are some people missing - like Tripp, Jesse and Justin who stayed at home and Ben who was already inside with Anna awaiting the guests at their...3:16 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)
Jonny and Maddy
I had so much to say last week I forgot to run this photo of Maddy and Jonny at the Partners Dance at Loudoun Valley High. It's an annual dance for students with special needs and their friends. Several Loudoun high schools participate and it is very popular because...9:46 AM in Down syndrome, Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (4)
Singin' in the Rain - must-see movie
Once upon a time, you could assume that everyone was familiar with certain cultural cornerstones - like Singin' in the Rain. But since I ran Shirley Temple - just because and some readers said they'd never really watched her old movies, I take nothing for granted. I want to make...9:10 AM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (4)
February 21, 2009
Children's books on Down syndrome
See also Children's books on disabilities Down syndrome books for parents...10:22 AM in Books, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)
Barbara's Book Club: Animal Farm by 3/12
Okay - Oprah's got one. Why can't we? Here's our first book club book - chosen specifically to equip us to better comprehend the bizarre politics which are now every day life in ObamaNation: Get a copy from Paperback Swap, your library or buy a used one at Amazon....10:08 AM in Books | Permalink | Comments (12)
Political Uber-class: spend, spend, spend
Lawmakers take fundraising to slopes By Fredreka Schouten, USA TODAY The deepening economic recession hasn't stopped members of Congress from throwing lavish events to raise campaign money for the 2010 election. This weekend, donors to a political action committee run by Rep. Jeb Hensarling are invited to the Snake...9:59 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun - Free concert for Kids! 2/21
Saturday, February 21, 4pm Loudoun County High School Leesburg, VA Our Family Concert will create a fantasy world of swashbuckling pirates and beautiful princesses that children of all ages will enjoy. We team up with the Loudoun Ballet Company to help bring some of these characters to life. Children are...8:48 AM in Loudoun County, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pelosi - secret meeting w/Archishop Niederauer 2/8
From Catholic Culture: Meeting between Archbishop Niederauer, Pelosi February 19, 2009 A spokesman for Nancy Pelosi has told Real Catholic TV and Our Sunday Visitor that San Francisco Archbishop George Niederauer met with the House Speaker on February 8 to discuss her position on abortion. Commenting on the meeting,...8:30 AM in Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Beauty of a Woman
The Beauty of a Woman The following was written by the late educator-humorist Sam Levinson for his grandchild and read by Audrey Hepburn on Christmas Eve, 1992. It was also used by Ms. Hepburn on occasion when she was asked for beauty tips. [From Audrey Hepburn by Barry Paris,...8:28 AM in Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)
Alison Krauss - Down in the River to Pray
I hope you're familiar with Alison Krauss - she makes beautiful music. Many of us were introduced to Alison and this song through the film O Brother, Where Art Thou?...8:19 AM in Inspiration, Movies, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
ELF cosmetics
I am very sorry but I've learned that the ELF cosmetic thing is a hoax, according to Snopes. I guess the hoax part is that it has anything to do with Nordstrom's. Since I ordered $9 worth of stuff I guess it really exists but just must be cheap...12:41 AM in | Permalink | Comments (8)
February 20, 2009
Is there anything Obama can't fix for us?
OBAMA WILL ELIMINATE YOUR SPAM (Click here to see what else Obama will do!) Obama is always looking for more ways to help. What would you like Obama to do? Email him to let him know. And be sure to tell all your friends about this site at ObamaWill.com...11:35 AM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (6)
Rick Santelli blasts Obama plan on live TV
Yesterday, Rick Santelli, a former Chicago trader and financial executive, spun into an impromptu blast of Obama's mortgage bailout. This will do your heart good:...11:29 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Dow drops 1000 points in past 11 days
Where are the ObamaGroupieMedia reportes when it comes to the stock market? Tripp and I don't have stocks or a retirement plan, but many of you do. Are you aware what's happened to the stock market? See the graph at Dow Jones - which you can drag to see a...11:15 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Four old ladies react to road rage guy
My laugh this morning came from Debbie:...10:19 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)
Bill Cosby on personal responsibility
Speaking of Bill cosby - as I was this morning - this is from The Atlantic Monthly, May 2008: The audacity of Bill Cosby's black conservatism by Ta-Nehisi Coates 'This Is How We Lost to the White Man' Last summer, in Detroit's St. Paul Church of God in Christ, I...9:54 AM in Fathers, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Putin warns US against socialism
Amazing. Is anyone at the top listening or are they so carried away with their power and privilege - forcing auto makers to grovel, give up their jets and come up with plans when they continue to live high on the hog, burning huge carbon footprints and passing legislation that...8:26 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Stimulus Bill ends welfare reform - resurrecting the poverty cycle?
Tim Arensmeier sent this: "You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else. When...8:13 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 19, 2009
Down syndrome books for parents
When Jonny was born 16 years ago, there were only a couple books available on Down syndrome. Now look at what's available: It's so ironic that our culture has evolved in compassion and caring towards individuals with Down syndrome even as 90% of babies diagnose prenatally are aborted. In...3:37 PM in Books, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (7)
Attorney General Eric Holder: US a nation of cowards on race
And you thought that by electing a black president we might end the bitterness and accusations? I think Rush has it right. Obama&Co are driven by resentment and anger and will not be happy until they tear down the character and economic foundations of our country and replace it...2:25 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
Stimulus - specific projects, state by state
Fact: the Stimulus Bill is larger than the entire federal budget of 1982. Stimulus Watch StimulusWatch.org was built to help the new administration keep its pledge to invest stimulus money smartly, and to hold public officials to account for the taxpayer money they spend. We do this by allowing you,...2:11 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama flag frenzy and demagoguery
Obama has new flag frenzyWhite House embraces a backdrop of red, white and blue Jennifer Harper Wednesday, February 18, 2009 Oh, say - can you see? Look. It's President Obama, and he's surrounded by American flags. They're on the dais in star-spangled glory. They're at the town-hall meeting and...6:23 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
February 18, 2009
Photofiddle - great gift idea and fun too!
Isn't this awesome? Kind of reminiscent of Andy Warhol's Marilyn Monroe color experiments, but more friendly and accessible. That's my Number Nine Kid Maddy - a wonderful example of why you should not stop having kids :) She's singing "Bless the Lord, My Soul." The design was one of...7:17 PM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (1)
Writing practice worksheets - free custom downloads
Click below and prepare to be grateful and impressed at this wonderful resource:Amazing Incredible Handwriting Worksheet MakerRemember, you can click the Share button below to email or post this resource anywhere....6:09 PM in Homeschooling, Practical Info, Preschoolers, Resources | Permalink | Comments (1)
Writing practice worksheets - free custom downloads
Click below and prepare to be grateful and impressed at this wonderful resource:Amazing Incredible Handwriting Worksheet MakerRemember, you can click the Share button below to email or post this anywhere....2:59 PM in Homeschooling, Preschoolers, Resources | Permalink | Comments (0)
Special ed parents: Wrightslaw conference in Bowie MD 3/19
Wright's Law is coming to Bowie, Maryland Thursday, March 19. If you have a child with special needs, this is an opportunity you don't want to miss.You're invited! Join national expert Pete Wright for a Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy Conference. The Parents' Place of Maryland is sponsoring this...2:48 PM in Disabilities, Public schools, Special education | Permalink | Comments (1)
Pope Benedict chides Pelosi - no photo op!
Breaking news from Associated Press:Pope to US Speaker Pelosi: Reject abortion supportBy VICTOR L. SIMPSON - 40 minutes ago VATICAN CITY (AP) -- Pope Benedict XVI on Wednesday told U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, a Catholic who supports abortion rights, that Catholic politicians have a duty to protect...11:00 AM in Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (6)
Obama orders 17,000 troops to Afghanistan - where are the peaceniks now?
So it seems fair to surmise that the fierce opposition to the war in Iraq - embraced by countless movie stars and personalities given generous coverage by our Mainstream Media - was simply because it was "Bush's war." If it's Obama's war, then it's okay and off-limits for criticism? ...10:48 AM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
American Idol - Danny, Alexis, Anoop
What a disappointing night last night on American Idol! So many contestants who sounded like karaoke singers. Poor song choices galore. And after so many years of contestants choosing powerhouse songs by powerhouse singers, only to make themselves look pathetic in comparison - how could so many have sabotaged...10:09 AM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (4)
Perfecting handwriting - plus a big dollop of parenting philosophy
Since two readers - Christina and Margaret - left the same comment on yesterday's pegboard post I thought I'd move it here where we can all share our experience and ideas: Hi Barbara, I love reading your educational advice for moms. My question is this: I have a 10 yr....8:21 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (11)
February 17, 2009
Amercian Idol
What season is this? Once again, the Curtis family - minus the three who've gone off to college - are settled in for our favorite winter-into-spring show. For a family that watches very, very little TV, American Idol has become a family tradition. For those inclined to dismiss American...3:54 PM in Entertainment, Music | Permalink | Comments (3)
Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head commercial
Did y'all see this? It was one of the ads we didn't have to shut down during the Super Bowl....3:43 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)
Children's table and chairs - 56% off!
This is the table and chair set I've been recommending for years - now available at Amazon at less than half price. For anyone contemplating having three or more children, this solid wood construction will stand the test of kid energy and time - and you will probably be...3:08 PM in | Permalink | Comments (1)
Pegboards: building pincer grasp and concentration
(From a longer entry called Pegboards - and a few thoughts on homeschooling) If you have a teacher supply store near you, you might want to take a trip there and browse the early childhood section to see how different educational materials are from all the stuff stocking the...2:27 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (3)
Montessori at home - getting started
I know I've been hitting hard on politics - and how I wish we could just let the government do its thing so we could pay 100% of our attention to mother here and now. But you all know how I feel about The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and...1:20 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)
Indonesia Muslims protest Hillary
Mon Feb 16, 5:32 AM ET Muslim women hold placards during a protest outside the U.S. embassy in Jakarta February 16, 2009. A group of Muslim women protested against the upcoming visit by U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.With Obama&Co in charge, I'm waiting for the worlds of conflicting...12:51 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Fannie Mae, our socialist future, double standards and the end of free speech
This is old news - I ran it in September when the housing market was melting down and the people truly responsible were given a pass by our Mainstream Media. But we really need to understand that socialism was already being tried in the US and already failing. That is,...7:41 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (8)
February 16, 2009
Presidents' Day: Washington to Obama, and everyone in between
Share this one with your kids:...1:26 PM in Holidays | Permalink | Comments (3)
Engaged couples: questions for parents
Ben and Anna are getting married May 22. As part of their preparation, they gave Tripp and me the following questions to answer. They're from a book called Preparing for Marriage Ben is our fourth to marry and the first to ask for our input. I guess the marriage...10:41 AM in Family, Marriage | Permalink | Comments (8)
Tripp is home again!
Tripp came home Saturday morning. He was surprisingly active - coming to the table for dinner and supervising the boys' showers before bed. Too active, probably. He has spent yesterday and today in a lot of pain. Even said this morning that if he had known what the aftermath...10:37 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (6)
February 13, 2009
John Boehner: "Not one member has read this bill."
House Minority Leader John Boehner speaks shortly before House Democrats push through an 1,100 page, trillion-dollar spending bill with less than 24 hours of public review time....3:27 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
Tripp Update
Tripp was still pretty weak today and his blood count is low. Everyone felt it best for him to spend another day in the hospital and to receive a few more units of blood. Not a happy day. But looking forward to tomorrow....1:43 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (10)
Sharing MommyLife news
[corrected link]This is really cool! I've added a feature which will make it easy for you to pass on information from MommyLife - use the Share button below my signature to send any particular post via Email, Twitter, Facebook, StumbleUpon and a host of other applications. This will make...12:48 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (2)
Stimulus bill now 1071 pages, Pelosi rushing to Rome
Drudge reporting: HURRY, FELLAS, LET'S VOTE, I AM OFF TO ROME! Fri Feb 13 2009 09:18:52 ET Rep. John Culberson, TX claims the "stimulus" bill must be urgently voted on today -- because Speaker Nancy Pelosi is leaving at 6:00 PM for an 8 day trip to Europe! Culberson...12:40 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 12, 2009
Tripp update
Please continue to pray for Tripp. Though the surgeon said things went well and he was able to put in a new knee prosthesis, there was some trouble controlling the bleeding. Tripp has to take anti-clotting medication, which leads to this complication. His body is weakened and not manufacturing...10:42 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (6)
Kansas Milkmaid is blogging again
Longtime readers here are familiar with Christine Fuller - aka Kansas Milkmaid - who went through some extraordinarily challenging circumstances a couple years ago which left her continuing to pursue an agrarian lifestyle as a single mother. Christine is back to blogging, which I am announcing here because many...10:08 PM in Babies, KS Milkmaid | Permalink | Comments (1)
Encouraging kids to love their work
Rerunning this for new readers - or anyone who thought it was a good idea but never got around to doing it: Daniel is #11 of our 12. I've told the story before of how we came to adopt him. For those new to this site, we have four boys...9:59 PM in Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Gregg withdraws from Commerce over Stimulus Plan
Ouch!! Again! OBAMA BURNED: GREGG WITHDRAWS AFTER POLICIES TOO MUCH TO STOMACH Thu Feb 12 2009 16:18:14 ET Senator Gregg Statement on His Withdrawal for Consideration of U.S. Commerce Secretary Sen. Gregg stated, "I want to thank the President for nominating me to serve in his Cabinet as Secretary of...8:14 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Caterpillar CEO contradicts Obama on rehiring
Ouch! CEO Contradicts Obama on Rehiring Employees Caterpillar Head Says More Layoffs Likely, Even With Stimulus Funding BY KAREN TRAVERS AND JAKE TAPPER Feb. 12, 2009-- At a Caterpillar Inc. plant in Peoria, Ill., today, President Obama said that his proposed economic stimulus would allow the company's CEO to rehire...8:10 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Oh, the deep, deep love of Jesus
Thinking of this traditional hymn today, I looked around YouTube to find the best version to share - and chose this very non-traditional arrangement for the visuals and so you could read the lyrics too: For others - traditional, Celtic, a capella male chorus - search YouTube for the title....6:52 PM in Inspiration, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (1)
Sarah Palin at Iron Dog race
From MommyLife's personal Wasilla correspondent: Hey Barbara - I just wanted to share a photo with you. I had a chance to talk to Sarah Palin on Sunday at the Iron Dog snowmachine race. She had Trig with her and was nice enough to take a photo with me. ...6:29 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (6)
Fight the Stimulus Bill - here's how, do it now!
Dear Friend, At 2PM tomorrow afternoon, AFP will officially present our NoStimulus.com petitions (which at the moment number 395,047) to the United States Senate in an event at the Capitol. Later in the day, the Senate is expected to make the final vote on the Pelosi/Reid/Obama trillion dollar spending bill. You're invited to...5:49 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)
February 11, 2009
Evita - shedding light on Obama
Anyone familiar with Evita? It's an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical based on the life of Eva Peron, a woman who scrambled her way up from fatherlessness and poverty to become First Lady of Argentina. A brilliant and seductive speaker, Eva worked the cult of her own personality - presenting herself...6:51 PM in Music, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)
Loudoun Special Olympics Free Throw 2/14
For questions or to make a "per basket" pledge/donation, please email ChuckforSpecialOlympics@starmail.com...11:31 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama/Caterpillar Whoop de doo
From the Associated Press @ 11:23 WASHINGTON (AP) - Obama: Caterpillar chief says he will rehire some laid-off workers if stimulus passes. That's it. More manipulation from Obama - give me control of health care and the census, college censorship, Democrat campaign funding (ACORN), and countless ridiculous funding projects -...11:23 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Clinton/Obama deja vu
Courtesy CitizenLink...9:13 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Remembering the Holocaust
This email was sent to me by a friend who is a Messianic Jew. In MEMORIAM - 63 YEARS LATERIn MemoriamIt is now more than 60 years after the Second World War in Europe ended This e-mail is being sent as a memorial chain, in memory of the six...8:29 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (0)
Focus on the Family marriage conference 2/28
Could your marriage use a jumpstart? This one-day event by Focus on the Family looks highly helpful and definitely doable: Relationships & Marriage | Parenting | Media Center | Family Store | Support Family Ministry It is not too late to attend the Focus...8:24 AM in Marriage | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's press conference - who's on first?
From CitizenLink...8:02 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Elisabeth Elliot: No love without grief
No Love Without GriefTell us, fool, who knows more of love--the one who has joys from it or the one who has trials and griefs? He answered: There cannot be any knowledge of love without both of them. (Ramon Lull, The Book of the Lover and the Beloved)...7:54 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Stimulus: creating a government medical monopoly
From today's Wall Street Journal: A Health-Tech Monopoly Another surprise in the stimulus fine print. The "stimulus" is the bill that keeps on giving, not least for journalists. Health-care providers and patients may have a different reaction, however, when they learn that Democrats are using the bill to create a...7:50 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Schumer on pork: "The American people really don't care"
Please everyone, flood your Senators and representatives today with calls to halt this huge spending bill which will burden generations to come, all to solidify Democrat control via "details" hidden in its 788 pages, including: *the health care power grab *anti-religious provisions *funding for ACORN to continue corrupt campaigning...7:07 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
The political situation - spread the word!
Okay, since the media thinks "We are all socialists now" and our president sees fit to to tell us directly not to listen to the only opposition he faces - Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity (so far he hasn't mentioned Laura Ingraham) - we really have to find ways...6:12 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 10, 2009
Tripp update
Tripp's surgery went well. It didn't start until 2:30 and took 2 1/2 hours instead of 1 1/2 dur to a lot of scar tissue the surgeon had to cut out, being careful to save tendons and nerves. Dr. K said everything looks promising. He called on the phone...8:24 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
We're all socialists now - Newsweek makes it official
"In many ways our economy already resembles a European one. As boomers age and spending grows, we will become even more French." Read Newsweek article here.All because people voted from feelings and really have no idea what the implications are for our country - a shrinking middle class, an increasingly...8:16 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
A 12-year-old speaks out about abortion
What have you done lately to help your friends, neighbors, coworkers, fellow students re-think an issue that desperately needs rethinking? As a Second Wave feminist who fought for abortion rights, I am appalled that the Sisterhood-Is-Powerful crowd has insisted on abortion as a sacred sacrament. Who could have imagined...3:40 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)
Tripp's surgery today at 1:00
Tripp's surgery is scheduled for 1:00 today. For new MommyLife readers, here's the in-a-nutshell scoop on why you need to pray for my husband: Tripp had a knee replacement surgery on 9/23 which he'd needed for years but couldn't get because we couldn't afford for him to take off...6:11 AM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (13)
February 9, 2009
Betsy McCaughey: government health control in stimulus plan
Interesting that campaigning Dems are constantly scaring seniors about Republicans doing away with Social Security, and yet their Stimulus Bill contains provisions which would seriously limit health care for seniors since it's not cost-effective.Betsy McCaughey has done something that few - perhaps not even many Congressmen or Obama himself -...9:10 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (8)
Obama Stimulus Bill - census grab, college censorship, socialized medicine
According to Obama, each of us personally and the country collectively are headed for the greatest catastrophe in the history of mankind if Congress doesn't pass The Stimulus Bill. Now. Why the hurry? And since they have plenty of votes among Democrats to pass it, why the hoopla? The hurry...8:06 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama "a restless soul" - Press Secretary Gibbs
'Restless' Obama and family head to Camp DavidDAILY NEWS STAFF Saturday, February 7th 2009, 7:25 AM It took Barack Obama two years to get to the White House, but barely more than two weeks for wanderlust to set in."He's a bit of a restless soul," Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said Friday...10:28 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)
MommyLife cited by PajamasTV
Wow - I'm honored! PajamasTV - in their last weekly roundup A Very Bad, No Good Week in Blogs (referring to Obama's Very Bad, No Good etc) - grabbed my conclusion (in bold) to this post last week:On Tuesday, as press secretary Gibbs fielded questions from the press regarding...10:11 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Possible Sebelius nomination more bad abortion news - updated
Since Tom Daschle had to step aside due to tax evasion - though since he's only one of several Obama appointees with similar problems, not sure why the self-identified "most ethical" president ever hasn't cleaned house with the rest - one prominent Democrat being floated to replace him is the...7:46 AM in Obama Nation, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (7)
February 7, 2009
Buddy Holly: February 3, 50 years later
I was 10 when Buddy Holly died in a plane crash on February 3, 1959. He was only 23 and eighteen months into his singing career. But he was poised to become - and in fact did posthumously prove to be - a pivotal person in the evolution of rock...10:16 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (3)
February 6, 2009
Should MommyLife ignore politics?
Hey Barbara, I know this is your blog and you're free to post whatever you want, and will continue doing so. It's just that with all due respect, I had the understanding that after the election, the anti-Obama posts were going to stop (and I say this as someone who...3:47 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (65)
Michael Dubruiel RIP
Catholic author Amy Welborn's husband, Michael Dubruiel - also an author - died suddenly on February 3, leaving behind two young children. He was 50 years old. Amy writes: Michael collapsed this morning at the gym and was not able to be revived despite the efforts of EMTs and hospital...3:24 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (1)
A Muslim convert to Christianity speaks
The other gods were strong,But You were weak.They rode, but You stumbled to Your throne.To our wounds, only a wounded God can speak,And not a god has wounds,But you alone.--Written by an anonymous Muslim who converted to Christianity...2:46 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
16 degrees this morning, 56 tomorrow
Okay, so I'm not going to break out the summer clothes, but let me tell you I will be glad to have a warmer house to live in for a while. While I love, love, love our house, it is impossible to keep it warm and have enough money...12:11 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (3)
Montessori at home - doing things quietly
This is just a simple thing that - quite honestly - can revolutionize your home and jumpstart your child's future. But that's the truth about anything you do with your children. Small beginnings eventually yield life-changing results. Try this: "Let's see how quietly we can put down the toilet...12:08 PM in Montessori, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Octuplet mom Nadya Suleman, IVF - your thoughts, please
Why does Matt say "Congratulations" to Ann Curry? For scoring the interview? She wanted a big family because she was raised an only child in a dysfunctional family - and yet she still lives at home with her mom and dad and 6 children under 7? She used a...11:54 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (30)
Obama claims staff "worn-out" already - plus more fear-mongering
Republics decline into democracies and democracies degenerate into despotisms. Aristotle All, ironically, while ensconced in a plush resort 100 miles from Williamsburg, spending taxpayer money unnecessarily. Folks, you need to contact your Representatives and Senators and tell them this Spendarama Package to reward pet Democrat projects under the guise of...11:35 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 5, 2009
The Obama week: Fear-mongering, awkward moments, and more double standards
When it looks like you are losing on rational grounds - i.e., that people are getting wise to the sad reality that the "Stimulus Package" is really a Spendarama to reward interest groups and potential 2012 Democrat voters - what should a new and inexperienced President do> Pull out all...9:02 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
How one woman got her gun
In light of the last entry - about gun owners stocking up on firearms and ammo in anticipation of an Obama/Holder crackdown on Second Amendment rights - I thought you might enjoy this article I wrote in response to the 2000 "Million" Mom March. Remember? This was published in...3:02 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (7)
CNN - Gun sales up in anticipation of Obama/Holder gun restrictions
Eric Holder is bad news for individual rights. Even the "objective" newscasters of CNN point out that gun owners' fears - and subsequent stocking up on guns and ammo - are not without foundation. btw, did you know that 75% of violent crime in this country does not involve firearms?...2:55 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Fatherless Express Blues/Do we need to have a psychological profile for presidential candidates?
From Tripp: "Nothing doth more hurt in a state than that cunning men pass for wise." --Sir Francis BaconTwo weeks into the new era of hope and change and the wheels are already coming off the bus. I am not speaking of the circumstances that are unfolding, but rather from a character...9:33 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 4, 2009
Happy 21st Birthday, Zach!
Today is Zach's 21st birthday! And since I can't get him on the phone, I guess I'll have to wish him Happy Birthday here. Also, since on this day 21 years ago I labored to bring him into the world, I'm going to take the liberty of talking about...7:57 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (7)
Tripp on Michael Steele
I believe God has placed Michael Steele in this position of leadership. Because he is a black conservative Catholic he will be viciously attacked from all sides of the political spectrum. For those concerned that he might be a little "shaky" on prolife issues and for those supporting him, I...2:55 PM in Catholicism, Current Affairs, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)
Presidential character - who has it, really?
On the subject of dignity in office - and the usual media bias, I received this in my Inbox from Ann and her father: HEADLINES: Now & Then - Wow. if this doesn't show us who the class act is! January 2009 - the day of the inaugural (or...8:07 AM in Current Affairs, Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)
Obama's leadership - read Alinsky, be prepared
Am I the only one who flinches when the President of the United States says things like "you guys" and "I screwed up"? I am longing for more dignity and integrity. Leaders should be noble. Of course these are small potato issues compared to the gigantic stakes we are...8:06 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 3, 2009
Powerful pro-life video: I'm Holding a Miracle
By Jason French. Thanks to Jawan McGinnis for sending this....7:36 PM in Babies, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
Montessori at home: growing carrot tops
From Mommy, Teach Me!, a science projects for preschoolers. A simple project is enriched when mom or teacher understand the purpose and use language to guide the learning experience: Growing carrot tops Purpose: To model the scientific approach - asking questions and using observation to discover answers. To differentiate...3:25 PM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)
A boy's eye view of marriage
This was from my friend Margaret - resident dietitian on the MommyLife Diet group and new blogger at Park Antics - last month: Riley sat down last night and decided he would write out the steps to getting married. I don't know what's funnier, the pictures or his notations: 1st...2:58 PM in Humor, Marriage | Permalink | Comments (1)
Purcellville Christian Mothers Network begins 2/27
Hi Moms: I am so excited to announce the beginning of our prayer group the Purcellville Christian Mothers Network. Our new ministry will meet every second and fourth Friday. GOALS: 1. PRAYER: praying for our children/students at Moutain View and Emerick Elementary schools; 2. SHARE: and disseminate information to...2:48 PM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)
Reality check from Facebook
Okay, so I guess Tripp is pretty bored. Still waiting for his surgery next Tuesday, he's amusing himself by setting up a Facebook account.I get this in my Inbox:Tripp said on Facebook that you two are married. We need you to confirm that you are, in fact, married to Tripp....1:46 PM in Humor, My life | Permalink | Comments (2)
Media notices race when it suits them: Eric Holder
Yesterday on the radio news blips, we were treated to a broadcast confetti of Eric Holder, confirmed, first black Attorney General, first African-American Attorney General . . . . Washington Post: Holder Confirmed As the First Black Attorney General Associated Press: Senate confirms Holder as first black AG Okay, so...1:20 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama condemns Limbaugh - what's up with that?
Warning: irreverence ahead: Looking for links on the Obama/Limbaugh smackdown, I came across this blog you need to read - The Black Sphere by Kevin Jackson. Be sure to show the men in your life, too: Due to the death of my mother when I was 4, I was raised...1:04 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Daschle withdraws his nomination
WASHINGTON (AP) - Tom Daschle has withdrawn his nomination to be Health and Human Services secretary. That's according to a joint White House statement from President Barack Obama and his former nominee. Obama said Tuesday he accepted the withdrawal "with sadness and regret." Daschle has been battling for his...1:00 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Gallup misses the point: Obama's broken promises
I would have headlined this differently.as the most significant acts Obama has taken are the closing of the Guantanamo prison and repealing the ban on American tax money for foreign abortions - and those have high disapproval ratings. See my notes following: Americans Approve of Most Obama Actions to Date...11:22 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 2, 2009
Taxes
From my Inbox - thanks, Tripp! Normal 0 MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} Tax his land, Tax his bed, Tax the table At which he's fed....10:24 PM in Complaint Department, Humor | Permalink | Comments (7)
Raunchy Super Bowl ads - Write NFL now
Tell NFL, NBC and FCC You Have Seen Enough Raunchy TV Ads Families that tuned in to the Super Bowl got more than they bargained for. When millions of Americans tuned in to NBC to watch the Super Bowl this year, they saw not only a close football game,...8:49 PM in Complaint Department | Permalink | Comments (3)
Valentines Day - cards, crafts for kids - idea for hubby too!
When Saint Valentine was a priest during the third century in Rome, Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriage. Despite the emperor's decree, Saint Valentine continued to perform marriages until Claudius finally put him to death. Today, Valentine's Day celebrates Saint Valentine's sacrifice and love's triumph with delicate valentines, bright flowers,...12:00 PM in Valentine's Day | Permalink | Comments (0)
Chicken Soup for the Soul, a Book of Miracles - story callout
Chicken Soup for the Soul, A Book of Miracles Chicken Soup for the Soul, A Book of Miracles, with co-author LeAnn Thieman, is looking for true stories showing signs and wonders God is performing today. We invite people of all faiths to share their stories of ordinary people whose...10:23 AM in Writing | Permalink | Comments (0)
All because two people fell in love. . . . .
I lifted this from Precious Moments/Precious Memories by right-clicking and saving the image. I'm putting it in my sidebar as a Valentine to my husband Tripp. This will be our 27th Valentine's Day and I can hardly believe all that God has accomplished. We started out with two children...9:51 AM in Marriage, Valentine's Day | Permalink | Comments (0)
Happy Groundhog Day
Happy Groundhog Day!! For the past ten years, February 2 has been one of our family's favorite holidays. No, we've never been to Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney or seen old Punxsutawney Phil - the groundhog with the all-important shadow - in person. Maybe next year. Punxsutawnians have been celebrating...8:29 AM in Holidays, Humor, Movies | Permalink | Comments (0)
Guerrilla Parenting #3 - Giving up birth control
Maddy, who is 15, asked me last night what guerrilla meant. I asked if she had been reading my blog and she said, no, she was doing a report on Fidel Castro. But in case anyone needs a refresher on the meaning of guerrilla it is a form of warfare...7:54 AM in Big families, Marriage, Mothering, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (6)
