<

Subscribe to MommyLife!
Email:  
Mommy Matters
Archive
Email Marketing by Constant Contact®






Blog Advice and Support
Installs and Upgrades
Theme Modifications
Custom Plugins
Theme Design
Conversions/Relocations
Hacked Site Recovery
Mobile Apps

Other Interesting Stuff



Our Little Extras: Moms
Celebrate Down syndrome!

samurai boy.jpg
Classic Movies for Boys

~Mother and Child Album~

les miz.jpg
Les Miserables Book Study

maddy preset.jpg


March for Life 2009
See for yourself the face of pro-life!

100_0599.JPG

Click for Down
Syndrome news!
Jonny



My Amazon.com Wish List
Kinda like a tip jar :)

catholics come home.jpg

July 2009

July 31, 2009

Wahl hair clipper replacement blades

If you do a lot of haircuts for the men in your family, you will eventually need these:...

7:15 AM in Saving money | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 30, 2009

Obama "teachable moment" - beer helps race relations

The artist is Chris Britt from Creators Syndicate.  Don't forget what I wrote a few months ago about how powerful political cartoons can be in stimulating thoughtful discussion with your kids.  This is a good one.What is missing here is a frank apology from President Obama and his "eminent...

4:23 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Pirates of Penzance - Franklin Park - free 7/30 and 7/31

Want to take your kids to see Gilbert and Sullivan for free? Growing Stage is presenting Pirates of Penzance at the Franklin Park Performing Arts Center tonight at 7 and tomorrow at 1. Jonny and Maddy are in this production - the culmination of a three-week workshop. Jonny is...

3:46 PM in Family, Fun Stuff, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama/Gates/Crowley - Lucia Whalen the real victim

3 amigos get suds; she gets scorn By: Roger Simon July 30, 2009 04:31 AM EST She will not get a beer with the boys. Lucia Whalen has not been invited to the White House. The three amigos -- Henry Louis Gates Jr., James Crowley and Barack Obama --...

1:47 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama, Gates, Crowley - best I've read on Cambridge incident

Henry Louis Gates, professor of victimology, heads for Martha's Vineyard to lick his wounds Stephanie Guttman July 26, 2009 Because of its proximity to Harvard University, Boston and New York City, Martha's Vineyard is the playground of certain kind of rich intellectual. The Clintons are regulars there, as is...

1:32 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama - beer tonight with Gates and Crowley

In light of Obama's steadily dropping poll numbers, one headline reads: This is a president in need of a vacation. Rush chose that to open his program today, then quipped: This is a country in need of a vacation from the president! A woman called in Laura today to express...

12:28 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama Time! 12th cover in 12 months

I dunno. Do you think this might smack just a little of slavish devotion? Or maybe Time staffers - who draw their paychecks from a slowly dying dinosaur - are angling for future jobs with O&Co - as the "embedded campaign correspondent" whose checks will now be signed by...

11:37 AM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Choosing Children's Literature - Part Two

From Choosing Children's Literature - Part One: Children below the age of eight do not have abstract thinking ability. In order to teach them concepts like courage, integrity, and honesty, you must give them stories. Montessori fans will understand this as parallel to her time-tested theory that in order...

10:51 AM in Books, Choosing Children's Literature series, Preschoolers, Spiritual education | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obesity costs everyone - part 3

Well, I guess I'm late to the party. While I'd heard of bariatric surgery, where people had operations to bypass or staple their stomachs to reduce their food intake, until this morning, I had not heard of Bariatrics: From Wikipedia: Bariatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the...

10:26 AM in Diet | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obesity costs everyone - part 2

While I am not a fan of the Nanny State, I really do feel our tolerance of obesity is putting people at risk and costing us all billions: Take this story from today'sOmaha World-Herald and multiply it by thousands and thousands of local community expenditures: Midlands ambulance crews strain...

10:03 AM in Diet, Health | Permalink | Comments (1)

Amazon Sale - 4-for-3 on books and household items

I mentioned in my last post that Amazon is having a 4-for-3 Sale on books - it also applies to housewares. If you are buying new, it's a good time to order your homeschooling books for next year, or to indulge in Dover coloring books. If your order is...

8:19 AM in Saving Money | Permalink | Comments (0)

Teaching children to pray without ceasing

Reader's Pick for today: The Monk Who Grew Prayer From Amazon: Review: Although ostensibly a children's book, The Monk Who Grew Prayer appeals to a wide variety of ages and literary tastes.. Synopsis: A monk prays deep in the forest. It looks like he is doing just simple, ordinary...

7:47 AM in Books, Mothering, Prayer, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 29, 2009

Napolitano uses the T word - "fight terrorism"

This is a surprise. Janet Napolitano - our Homeland Security "Chief" has suddenly come out swinging against terrorism. You know - terrorism - that word that the Obama Administration dropped from the nation's vocabulary when the Great Reconciler took office six months ago? Well, except when directed toward right...

9:09 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder :)

AAADD KNOW THE SYMPTOMS......PLEASE READ! Thank goodness there's a name for this disorder. Somehow I feel better even though I have it!! Recently, I was diagnosed with A.A.A.D.D. - Age Activated Attention Deficit Disorder. This is how it manifests: I decide to water my garden. As I turn on...

4:35 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)

Food tips - be frugal, stay safe

Your Ultimate Shelf Life Guide - Save Money, Eat Better, Help The EnvironmentShould you toss it or keep it?  What if it seems okay but is five days beyond the expiration date?  Refrigerate olive oil?If you eat food - and I think we all do - you will surely find...

1:30 PM in Saving money | Permalink | Comments (1)

A taste of Taiwan

Are these the cutest? Look at the detail: They're from Taiwan - a gift Justin's birth parents brought when they came to visit last fall. They are a uniquely Taiwanese art form called Cochin ceramics and are traditional gifts. We were really honored to receive them....

1:13 PM in Adoption, Art, Family | Permalink | Comments (3)

Boy's Haircuts - save money!

It's been a long time since I ran this - just thought some new readers might be brave enough to give this a whirl - especially with summer weather here. The best $25 I ever invested was in a Wahl hair clipper kit nineteen years ago when I had...

10:52 AM in Bargains, Downsizing, Practical Info, Resources, Saving Money | Permalink | Comments (12)

Global warming - religion of urban elites

I couldn't agree more, as I've been saying for years. See my links below: Global warming is the new religion of First World urban elites Geologist Ian Plimer takes a contrary view, arguing that man-made climate change is a con trick perpetuated by environmentalists By Jonathan Manthorpe, Vancouver SunJuly 28,...

7:47 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 28, 2009

Les Miserables book study - pages 821-940

With the first three sections now behind us - Fantine, Cosette and Marius - we begin the fourth: Saint-Denis. First, Hugo sets the political stage - as always showing the dramatic interplay between the larger cultural forces and the human dramas directly or indirectly affected by them. Not being...

5:49 PM in Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (4)

Conyers: no point in reading health care bill - just vote yes

Another gem from CNS - ignored by the Government Media John Conyers - for those who've been too busy leading honest, productive lives to be keeping track - has a history of corruption, most recently involving his wife's corruption charges, about which he claims innocence. But he's a Democrat, so...

2:59 PM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama Science Czar: baby only a potential human

Breaking news from CNS - Cybercast News Service, which investigates and reports on the stuff the Government Media would rather let the Obama Regime get away with. Obama's Science Czar Said a Born Baby 'Will Ultimately Develop Into a Human Being' Tuesday, July 28, 2009 By Terence P. Jeffrey,...

1:31 PM in Obama Nation, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (6)

Black Cambridge policewoman: Gates "smokescreen" - will never vote for Obama again

Embedded video from CNN Video Don't know if you've been reading the backstory on Professor Gates, who's really spent decades making a living from drawing people away from racial reconciliation even as he's enjoyed every advantage of the educational system: Dr. Gates On Whitey: "Malcolm X Was Talking About the...

8:23 AM in Black conservatives, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obesity costs everyone - Obama's obese Surgeon General

From The Wall Street Journal: Nearly 10% of Health Spending Due to Obesity, Report Says JULY 27, 2009, 11:07 A.M. ET WASHINGTON -- New research shows medical spending averages $1,400 more a year for an obese person than for someone who's normal weight. Overall obesity-related health spending reaches $147 billion,...

7:11 AM in Health, Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

2004: Obama condemns Bush for legislation rush

Of course, the Patriot Act was rushed to protect us from future terrorist activity. And talk about intimidation! The Obama Machine has gone to unprecedented lengths to intimidate opposition - firing the Inspector General who exposed corruption in Americorps and now trying to intimidate Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Chief...

6:17 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 27, 2009

Nurse forced to abort, sues Mt. Sinai Hospital

We've been saying this is what we have to look forward to under the most pro-abortion regime in American history.  That is a mistake: it's really already happening as pro-abortionists are emboldened by their current In status: NURSE 'FORCED' TO ABORTFaith Objector Sues Mt. SinaiBy Kathianne BonielloJuly 26, 2009 A...

5:21 PM in Obama Nation, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (7)

Laura Ingraham adopts second baby - from Russia

Anyone out there a Laura Ingraham fan? I listen to her daily. Last week when she left for a "secret" mission which she promised to share when she got back, I guessed a second adoption. I was right! Laura brought home a new 8 month baby boy from Russia...

12:49 PM in Adoption, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)

Justin - heavy lunchtime reading

Couldn't resist grabbing my camera when Justin picked up the Wall Street Journal to read while eating lunch the other day! Justin has Down syndrome, but evidently his Asian heritage has given him an edge :) No, he doesn't read at that level - at all - but he...

8:40 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (5)

Writers helps - for teens, too!

A book on punctuation that makes you laugh out loud?? Eats, Shoots and Leaves by Lynne Truss will tell you more than you would have ever thought there was to know about those funny little marks which writers depend on to govern the tempo, signal emotions, or clarify the...

8:24 AM in Books, Homeschooling, Writing | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 26, 2009

Glenn Beck: Open Letter to Our Nation's Leadership

This is a letter printed at Glenn Beck's site last month which has collected 3735 comments. I think the writer speaks for millions of voters - Republicans and Democrats: An Open Letter to Our Nation's Leadership I am Janet Contreras, a concerned, home-grown American citizen. I am 53, and...

10:10 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

WrightsLaw - 4 free Florida conferences

This is an amazing opportunity for parents of students with IEPs to receive excellent advocacy training - free of charge.  See my WrightsLaw experience - Special education: law and advocacy and The IEP process. August 5, 7, 10 and 12, 2009 August 5, 7, 10 and 12, 2009 Boot Camp...

9:51 PM in Disabilities, Inclusion, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)

Web Site Story - great parody for theater junkies!

. [Caution: Zach tells me that College Humor can be very off color, so I wouldn't let my kids wander around there.]...

4:25 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)

If not "In God We Trust" then whom?

Another Stoplight by Stuart Shepherd:...

3:56 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama health care abortion funding

Here's a simple illustration to share with your kids. It would make a great debate visual (properly attributed): Love Stuart Shepherd's work! For more, visit Stoplight or subscribe for free email updates from Focus on the Family CitizenLink....

3:52 PM in Health, Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Teachers fed up with NEA and unions: join AAE

What good news for teachers who think there is no alternative to paying expensive dues to unions that use a major part of their assets to advance political causes out of synch with their own! After running Peter Heck's column, It's Time For Us to Fly, Christian Teachers, I...

1:58 PM in Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)

House health care bill labels "retarded"

Funny how liberals act as the PC sheriffs for the nation, and yet feel free to sling around offensive jokes and labels.Their true colors show even in the language of the current Health Care "Reform" Act.  From the New York Post, July 26: The proposed health-insurance bill from the House...

1:16 PM in Disabilities, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rasmussen: Obama Approval Index -11

I hope this might get Obama's attention and that he might be humble enough to listen and change course:Latest Rasmussen Poll: ...

1:10 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama health care dangers- Live Webcast 7/28 8:30 pm

Last week's Live Webcast Stop the Abortion Mandate drew an audience of over 36,000 - five times the expected 7000 - with only 96 hours notice!My notes are in a steno pad which unfortunately got left outside in the rain yesterday, so in lieu of my report, please read the...

10:40 AM in Activism, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 25, 2009

Improving Reading Comprehension in children

Someone ordered one of these yesterday, which reminded me that this series was an absolute priority in our homeschooling program. I cannot praise these books highly enough! Beyond rote reading skills, children need to understand what they read. These workbooks are well-designed and intelligent, and from the earliest years...

10:48 AM in Homeschooling, Reading | Permalink | Comments (4)

Angel Food Ministries - new and improved! open to all! save big on groceries

What a lovely greeting this morning! This egg box was in my order from Angel Food this month. I blogged about Angel Food last spring and gave it a try myself. But though the concept was admirable - food sold in box units for up to 50% saving -...

10:20 AM in Bargains, Resources, Saving money | Permalink | Comments (5)

July 24, 2009

Midsummer Night's Dream - Leesburg 7/25 and 7/26

Shakespeare would undoubtedly love to see his Midsummer Night's Dream performed in an exquisite setting like Morven Park in Leesburg Not Just Shakespeare presents its last two performances Saturday and Sunday nights at 6pm. Come early at 5:30 with a picnic basket, spread out a blanket and enjoy a dusk-to-dark...

3:50 PM in Entertainment, Family, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)

Black Officer at Gates' Home Supports Arrest, Obama fumbles again

Jul 24, 2009 2:35 pm US/Eastern Black Officer At Gates' Home Supports Arrest A black police officer who was at Henry Louis Gates Jr.'s home when the black Harvard professor was arrested says he supports "100 percent" how his white fellow officer handled the situation. Sgt. Leon Lashley says...

3:07 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama vs Crowley, Cambridge and Cops

Doesn't it seem that every day brings another Obama vs Something or Other?The more we learn about Sergeant Crowley, the more even-tempered and sincere he appears to be.  I wish we could say the same of our president and his friend Mr. Gates.How in the world could the President of...

1:31 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

UN and Planned Parenthood support China's one-child policy

From World magazine - another reason to stop government funding of Planned Parenthood:Government-sponsored coercion China: A study shows UN continues to underwrite China's one-child policy Alisa Harris A mute woman must
undergo sterilization before the government allows her to marry. A young woman hides her second child, buying a baby's corpse...

1:25 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)

World magazine trial offer - 8 issues for $8

Have you wanted to check out World magazine? They have a great trial offer now - $8 for 8 issues. Go here to find out more....

1:17 PM in Bargains, Conservative resources, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (0)

Poison ivy remedy

From my friend Margaret: My son is VERY allergic to poison ivy: We typically end up in the ER once a year with a pretty severe case. This year we only had a mild case, but we started using a product called "Tecnu" on him. Anytime we go for...

1:04 PM in Health | Permalink | Comments (3)

Considering Catholicism? This book looks good

For those of you in the process of learning more about the Catholic Church, I found this book by an Evangelical - former editor of Christianity Today - who converted to Catholicism in 1997. I found the review following intriguing - and enough to make me order the book (well,...

12:30 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (1)

Poison ivy relief

Ask me about poison ivy. Its domination of one of my kids (who prefers to remain nameless) is finally drawing to an end. Since it was on the neck and face - including eyelid - with major swelling and inflammation, a course of steroids (prednisone) was necessary - hard...

10:30 AM in Health | Permalink | Comments (5)

Stop Planned Parenthood funding - call NOW!

From American Life League this morning - an urgent request. For those new to political activism, please know that your mail and phone calls make a big difference - as witness how the brakes have been put on ObamaCare-by-August-1. Because of grassroots efforts across the country, Congress will recess...

9:17 AM in Activism, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)

Stop the Abortion Mandate - follow-up

Dear Barbara, Little did we know -- just 96 hours ago -- when first announcing the "Stop the Abortion Mandate" webcast that 36,187 pro-lifers would participate! And, little did we know, that when 36,187 pro-lifers all tried to converge on the same web event at the same time the...

6:22 AM in Activism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 23, 2009

Obama - racial profiling a white cop

If anyone came off as behaving stupidly in this matter, it is Obama, who is still maintaining that he did not make a mistake when he ended his press conference last night by impugning the Cambridge police (after impugning just about everyone else he could find to impugn to make...

8:44 PM in Everyday Heroes, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)

Obama - doctors guilty of *gasp* tonsillectomies

 | July 23, 2009 |President Obama's Acute Case of Tonsillitis Last night, perhaps in an attempt to give both parents and children nightmares, President Obama accused doctors who remove children's tonsils of performing the surgery for profit and not for the benefit of the patient. Unbelievably, this was the...

8:13 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

Stop the Abortion Mandate - webcast 7/23 9 pm Eastern

"Help block one of the greatest threats to human life since the Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision imposed abortion on America..." Join the URGENT nationwide webcast event on Thursday, July 23, to prevent Washington D.C. bureaucrats and abortion industry lobbyists from forcing YOU to pay for abortions Pro-Life Friends,...

5:18 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)

Obama federal health care petition - just say no!

From my Inbox: Congressman Bob Goodlatte - no kidding on the name :) - has set up an online petition called NoFedMed and is asking us to sign and forward to friends.  I have and I am:Friends- Last night President Obama spoke to the nation about his plan to "reform" our...

3:26 PM in Activism, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama on Cambridge "racial profiling" - presidential race-baiting

Just when I think our Glorious Leader could stoop no lower, he pulls a cheap stunt like last night. At a press conference summoned to give the American citizenry the hard sell on his Obamacare - kinda like those ShamWow ads - Obama wraps up the hour by calling...

12:16 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (7)

Les Miserables - ongoing commentary

So glad to see a batch of fresh comments on Les Miserables this morning! Thank you! I really enjoy reading everyone's insights. Some of us pick up on different things and it informs and enriches my current reading when someone brings out something I had kind of glossed over....

8:48 AM in Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (0)

Cleaning the refrigerator - and loving each moment

Woke up this morning and started the normal routine: making health smoothies for the family (it takes two huge blender-fuls and is worth every penny and minute in how much it has saved my kids from going to the doctor's office since November 2008). Getting out the papaya, I...

8:08 AM in Inspiration, Mothering, My life | Permalink | Comments (5)

July 22, 2009

Contact your senators about health care now!

From Martha:  a sample letter to fax your congressman now.  This health care issue could go either way.  So far, Blue Dog Democrats are nervous about voting for something they know their constituents are dead set against, but the Democratic leadership will stop at nothing to wrangle them into compliance:July...

4:49 PM in Activism, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)

Obama press conference 7/22 - 5 questions

From WRAL. Don't know the author. Rush read them off an hour ago, but they are brilliant:[Update 7/23: Of course these were not asked.  For my take on what did go on at the press conference, see Obama on Cambridge "racial profiling" - presidential race baiting.]5 Questions for President...

1:51 PM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

Obama's Waterloo: Not DeMint's doing, but Obama's

Matt Lauer tried for a Gotcha Moment with Jim Demint on Obama "Health Care" this morning: This has become such a blind power struggle. As much as the media is trying to make this personal based on Demint's Waterloo comment - which clearly meant that this might be the moment...

12:44 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Choosing Children's Literature - Part One

In my last post, I mentioned The Emperor's New Clothes - a children's fairy tale by Hans Christian Anderson. This segues into something I've wanted to share with you all for over a year, but it was one of those things that got put on the back burner during...

10:58 AM in Books, Homeschooling, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 21, 2009

National Education Association NEA hostile to conservatives

While this isn't news, I think conservative public school parents might be shocked to hear how upfront the NEA about that hostility. You might want to pass this on to Christian and/or conservative teachers you know:   (HT: Jasmine)It's time for us to fly, Christian teachersPeter Heck - Guest Columnist - 7/20/2009 var...

5:19 PM in Public schools | Permalink | Comments (6)

Inspiration for moms from Danielle Bean

Saw this at Amy's Humble Musings and wanted you all to see it too: I am a mother of eight, but it's not because I am Super Mom. It's not because I was born with some rare gift that makes me capable of mothering a large family. It's because this...

4:07 PM in Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama: lavish living while telling us to tighten our belts

Here's an interesting website I came across. It will keep you up to date on the food and entertainment at the White House - kinda like watching a taxi meter:Obama FoodoramaNovember 4, 2008-Onward The Obama Foodorama: Everything From Arugula To Waffles. An archive of Obama Food Art, White House...

2:32 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Dinner with Obama - a parable

Forwarded by Annie. I searched for the author of this but was unable to find it, though it is posted all over the Internet: Once upon a time, I was invited to the White House for a private dinner with the president. I am a respected businessman, with a...

2:25 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama fights America on health care - today's must-read

I'm off to take care of family errands. You need to be completely up-to-date on health care because Obama is putting up a demagogic defense built on lies and propaganda. You need to know the truth to share with friends and family, while keeping up the pressure on your...

11:02 AM in Activism, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Sotomayor: not over 'til it's over - call Congress to postpone

In the rush of other issues, I haven't really said much about Sotomayor.  Of course I think it is wrong to nominate someone to the Supreme Court - or any other appointment, for that matter - based on gender or the color of their skin.Which is why I think Ms....

8:48 AM in Activism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)

Children in church: teaching good behavior

I am receiving requests from churches - of all denominations - to reprint my article on Teaching Children Self-Control. If you would like permission to reprint this column in your church bulletin - for free - please email me for byline and copyright information. Teaching Children Self-Control One of...

7:09 AM in Church Issues, Mothering, Preschoolers, Spiritual education, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 20, 2009

World's most crowded swimming?

From China:...

8:28 PM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (3)

Considering Catholicism - seeking advice

I'm getting more and more emails like this from people who think they are alone. The truth is that many evangelicals are turning to the Catholic Church, including some close to my own heart - Dr. and Martha Sears, who recently reverted after 37 years of evangelcalism. My point is...

6:01 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (7)

Les Miserables book study: pages 718-820

Fellow travelers - please drop me a comment to let me know where you are in Les Miz. I know at least 30 copies were purchased through Amazon, so I hope you all are reading at your own pace. For anyone struggling, don't forget my hints for making the...

2:56 PM in Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (4)

Building our national security one child, one day at a time

Martha forwarded this to me - you can find out more about ScreamFree Parenting and sign up for the Tip of the Day here.[ July 20, 2009 ScreamFree Daily Parenting Tip. ] Quote of the Day: " If our American way of life fails the child, it fails us all....

2:27 PM in Mothering, Resources | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sacrificial love

Several readers have sent me this:...

2:13 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

New to MommyLife? Welcome

Periodically I do a little update for readers new to this site - and since I have visitors dropping in for one particular post, I'm thinking now might be a good time to do one. MommyLife began on January 15, 2005. Since then, I have written 5066 entries and...

1:41 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (0)

Inspiration from Mother Teresa

~ Mother Teresa's Prayer ~ People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered; ...Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives; ...Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies; ...Succeed anyway. If you are...

12:59 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)

Note to Molly - updated

New to MommyLife? See below* Adventures in mercy? Or adventures in the legalism of a self-defined ex-legalist? You know, it strikes me as truly juvenile for a grown up woman who has decided she doesn't like my take on Sarah Palin to drop a comment expressing her dissent, then when...

11:42 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (9)

Clinton: North Korea "acting out" like unruly child

I guess this new diplomatic approach fits right in with the "Wise Latina Woman" judicial philosophy: Clinton likens North Korea to unruly children Mon Jul 20, 2009 WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said North Korea should not receive the attention it is seeking through behavior like...

11:39 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama stimulus results - and he wants control of healthcare?

Lifted from Drudge- click on government links below to learn how well they've been spending the stimulus funds:  SPENDING SCARED: WHITE HOUSE PUTS OFF RELEASE OF BUDGET UPDATE... RECOVERY.GOV // AWARDED: $2,531,600 FOR 'HAM, WATER ADDED, COOKED, FROZEN, SLICED, 2-LB'... RECOVERY.GOV // AWARDED: $1,191,200 FOR '2 POUND FROZEN HAM SLICED'......

11:32 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Parenting as a roller coaster ride - enjoy!

A little inspiration - because we all need to keep encouraging each other through the ups and downs of motherhood - from Lord, Please Meet Me in the Laundry Room: Just the other our night, our family watched an old favorite of ours, Parenthood, which never fails to make me...

11:11 AM in Inspiration, Movies | Permalink | Comments (2)

Apollo 11 anniversary man walks on the moon

Some of you weren't around for this. I was 21 and pregnant with Samantha Sunshine - who will celebrate her 40th birthday this year. To give you a little insight into my radical leftist perspective at the time, I truly thought that the moonwalk was probably faked by the government...

8:16 AM in Nostalgia | Permalink | Comments (0)

Would you like to swing on a star? Bing Crosby classic

Gearing up for the week ahead! From the movie Going My Way. I taught this to my kids: Would you like to swing on a star carry moonbeams home in a jar and be better off than you are or would you rather be a mule A mule is an...

8:10 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 19, 2009

Ronald Reagan on the danger of socialized medicine, c. 1961

You need to listen to this - and have your children listen too: From the 1961 Operation Coffee Cup Campaign against Socialized Medicine as proposed by the Democrats, Ronald Reagan - then a private citizen - speaks out against socialized medicine. There is no video because this was an LP...

11:51 AM in Activism, Conservatism, Conservative resources, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Why the Left hates Sarah Palin - and why we should push back

In response to my post Why the Left Hates Sarah Palin: Trig, Molly commented: I'm late to this post but I want to say that I completely and totally disagree with this. Very very very few people hate Trig. Very few liberals are unhappy he was born. People on the...

10:30 AM in Media Bias, Obama Nation, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (26)

July 18, 2009

Hey There Obama (Drink the Koolaid)

Pass this one on - very funny! Question: does the younger generation know the origin of Drink The Koolaid?...

9:20 PM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (10)

Snopes: unreliable political source

Conservatives are becoming hip to the fact that Snopes.com is no longer a reliable source for the truth on political issues.  I first wrote about Snopes being untrustworthy on June 26, 2007:Snopes has it wrong on hate crime legislationI've always relied on Snopes to check out whether something forwarded to...

1:02 PM in Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (3)

Obama Health care: home visits for forced immunization

CNS News (Cybercast News Service) offers "an alternative to the liberal media, focusing on stories that are unreported, under-reported, or misreported by the mainstream press." Thank God for CNS! You can bookmark, receive a daily email, or link to CNS from my News & Analysis section in the right sidebar....

11:37 AM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (6)

Starbucks giving free pastries July 21st

Starbucks is giving coupons online which will get you a free pastry when you purchase a "handcrafted" drink July 21st before 10:30 am:...

9:49 AM in Bargains | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kids' table and chairs - Montessori, kid-friendly environment

If you've been thinking of a table and chairs for your children, Christmas is a great time to make this a reality.  Most manufacturers also sell extra chairs. And most sets come with free shipping from Amazon with free shipping - just remember to click the Super Saving option. This...

8:15 AM in Montessori, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 17, 2009

Government-controlled grocery stores? What if?

Brilliant!  From Rachel @ Thoughts from a Conservative Mom: What if Government Controlled The Grocery Store Industry? Imagine that the Federal government announces a new program to help fight the ever-growing obesity problem in this country.The President appoints a dietitian to become the very first Secretary of Nutrition. She will...

10:11 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama top economic advisor cites Google search as progress

Larry Summers cites Google search as progressOf all the statistics pouring into the White House every day, top economic adviser Larry Summers highlighted one Friday to make his case that the economic free-fall has ended. The number of people searching for the term "economic depression" on Google is down to...

7:24 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama health care rationing - humor

From the Gotta Laugh to Keep from Crying Department: from the Health Administration Bureau: HT: Amy...

6:50 PM in Health, Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

America - a democracy or republic?

6:16 PM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (1)

ACLU vs. veterans: Mojave Desert Memorial Cross

That's the ACLU - vociferous supporters of pornography, but censors of anything Christian,...

5:54 PM in Culture Wars | Permalink | Comments (2)

Why the Left hates Sarah Palin: Trig

[11/23 Update: Welcome, Free Republic readers. For those of you new to my site and commentary, I am the mother of 4 sons with Down syndrome - 1 by birth and three by adoption.] I know there are a lot of reasons, really. But the thing that makes it visceral...

5:01 PM in Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (9)

Evian Rollerbabies

Have y'all seen this?...

3:49 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama Health Care - rationing is patriotic!

For more, see Health Administration and you:...

12:08 AM in Health, Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 16, 2009

Les Miserables: 597-717

Though the third section of Les Miz is called Marius, it begins with a generic description of the Parisian gamin and focuses on one specific individual: Gavroche (pages575-596). Gavroche, we learn, is part of the family Jondrette, who live next door to " a very poor young man called...

10:38 PM in Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (3)

Biden: "We have to spend money to keep from going bankrupt"

CNS News seems to be a reliable source of real news these days.  Haven't seen a single article about Michelle's arms or garden: Joe Biden: 'We Have to Go Spend Money to Keep From Going Bankrupt'Thursday, July 16, 2009 By Penny Starr, Senior Staff WriterVice President Joe Biden (Photo by Penny...

9:51 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Discover the clothesline: save money, stress less

I can't explain it. Maybe it's because I was already predisposed to find spiritual contentment while handling my family's laundry. I did, after all, write in Lord, Please Meet Me in the Laundry Room: Day after day, I'd think I'd get a start on developing a spiritual life, and...

4:23 PM in Downsizing, Inspiration, Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (4)

Social Security execs splurge on 700K Las Vegas event

On February 10, 2009, our Fearless Leader berated business leaders, saying: "You can't get corporate jets, you can't go take a trip to Las Vegas or go down to the Super Bowl on the taxpayer's dime," (Just days before his first fancy date night with Michelle in Chicago, followed by...

3:55 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama "health care" will cut off seniors

Just landed in my Inbox:  So, I guess this is the plan to level the population levels of young/old - since people aren't having enough babies anymore to support the economy, and abortion takes the rest, we will need to lower the life expectancy.  There is a lot that needs to be said and...

3:26 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

Blue Dog Democrats can kill Obama Health Care - call them!

From Laura Ingraham: BLUE DOG DEMS CAN KILL OBAMA HEALTH CARE REFORM There are EIGHT "Blue Dog Democrats" who sit on the Energy and Commerce Committee. If these eight Democrats do not support the legislation, passage would likely not succeed. It is CRITICAL to contact them TODAY and make your voice...

3:22 PM in Activism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)

A visit from Becky Miller and family

Love My Readers department: Okay, so I'm a little late posting this, but on June 29 a small contingent of the Curtis family was thrilled to get a visit from Matt and Becky Miller from Rhode Island.  They were on their way home from a pro-life conference in North Carolina...

2:59 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (1)

Fall of Capitalism, Rise of Islam - 7/19 Chicago conference

Only in the United States do we roll out the red carpet for those intent on our destruction:You might want to call the Hilton and let them know what you think.But first, take a minute to watch the conference video: With Obama doing everything he can to speed up...

2:28 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (6)

Obama Health Care - Congress elites get better plan

Which may be why they are supporting worse care than we now enjoy for the proletariat common folk: Why Is Government Health Insurance Good Only For Some Submitted by Elizabeth Lee Vliet MD on Jul 14th, 2009 On June 24, President Obama admitted that he and his family would not...

1:59 PM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Stop Obama health care plan - call NOW!!

One thing no one seems to mention when ranting and raving about our "broken" health care system is that everyone ends up getting the care they need. Well, actually, almost everyone - *see footnote below* No insurance? No citizenship? No worries. Just take your kids to the local emergency...

11:16 AM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (9)

Obama health care will cost EVERYONE - don't be fooled!

Click to see full-size image. This page from the New York Post. As Rush said this afternoon, Michael Steele needs to have this replicated in every community across the United States so that every citizen knows exactly what the cost of ObamaCare will be to them....

11:00 AM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama power grab: 30 czars and counting

Czarist America By: Tait Trussell FrontPageMagazine.com | Thursday, July 16, 2009 In an historic and possibly unconstitutional expansion of Executive authority, President Obama has named more than 30 "czars" with unprecedented and seemingly unlimited authority in a breadth of fields--ranging from U.S. border czar to Iran czar. All are...

10:42 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Paul McCartney live 7/15 in NYC - WOW!

I've been blessed lately that Maddy has developed a passion for Paul McCartney's music - we listened to it a lot on the trip up to Boston last month - especially cuts from his album Ram">Ram. What a great surprise to find that he did a concert yesterday on...

9:36 AM in Entertainment, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)

545 vs. 300,000,000 by Charlie Reese

Charley Reese has been a journalist for 49 years. 545 PEOPLE By Charlie Reese Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them. Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits? Have...

7:21 AM in Activism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (6)

How to brainwash a nation - 1985 analysis rings true now

I ran this in the weeks running up to the election - Heck, what didn't I run that many thought was too far out to be credible? Check out my Campaign 2008 category for 300 or so entriies/warnings of what was to come, including my entirely sincere hopeful As We...

7:14 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 15, 2009

Obama science czar: backed forced abortion, sterilization

How to deal with the fact that Obama has created a completely unaccountable infrasructure outside the traditional Cabinet by appointing well over 20 czars who report only to him and whose salaries he controls? We don't know much about these people and what we do find out is not...

7:21 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)

Thoughts from a conservative mom - recommended site

I don't know why, but I've been really dragging about writing about politics for a week. I know there are issues I've yet to address - can anyone say Sotomayor or health care? I know you probably can guess my position, but I do intend to equip you with...

5:53 PM in Blogging, Conservative resources, Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (1)

Children in church: teaching good behavior

A couple weeks ago a young mother came up to me after Mass and thanked me for a piece of advice I'd given at a Workshop for Moms I did last spring. She whipped out a very familiar-looking card and told me that by using it, she'd been able...

5:12 PM in Mothering, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (10)

Catholic Vote's new pro-life ad

In case you didn't see the other two: You can support the placement of these ads and add your two cents to the creation of future ads by visiting CatholicVote.org....

4:56 PM in | Permalink | Comments (2)

Prismacolor $10 rebate - art with colored pencils

Been thinking about investing in Prismacolor pencils for your kids? There are a lot of good reasons to - which I can tell you from 39 years experience recommending and using coloring books to build my children's fine motor skills and concentration. Sure, you can find cheaper colored pencils...

2:47 PM in Art, Bargains, Homeschooling, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (1)

America's Christian heritage - the real thing

American Minute with Bill Federer July 15 The Continental Congress was evacuating Philadelphia as the British had just won the Battle of Brandywine, forcing Washington's troops to retreat to Valley Forge. In addition, Congress was informed that the war had interrupted trade with the King's authorized printers in England,...

2:35 PM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (1)

Democrat Health Care Plan - organizational chart

Click here for full-size image...

1:11 PM in Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Democrats laugh at idea of actually reading legislation

Democratic Leader Laughs at Idea That House Members Would Actually Read Health-Care Bill Before Voting On It Wednesday, July 08, 2009 By Monica Gabriel and Marie Magleby Washington (CNSNews.com) - House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-Md.) said Tuesday that the health-care reform bill now pending in Congress would garner very few...

8:31 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)

Darrell "Shifty" Powers

During WWII, the men of the 101st Airborne did as much to save the future of the entire world as probably any other group of men in the entire history of humanity. Also known as the Screaming Eagles, these men are the "Band of Brothers" that inspired a book and...

8:06 AM in Everyday Heroes, Fathers, Inspiration, Military matters, Veterans Day | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 14, 2009

Michelle Obama - a $300,000/year Mother Teresa

This has been bugging me for a while. Back in May, Queen Michelle started gallivanting around the country, urging us all to volunteer, and using herself as some kind of icon of self-sacrifice. Here's her exact text: And I went from college to law school to a big ol'...

9:47 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

Queen Michelle Obama requires staff of 20 for star quality

From CanadaFreePress.com - which seems to be doing a better job of analyzing our out-of-control presidency than our own Formerly Free Press: Recession, Depression, What Michelle Worry? First Lady requires more than twenty attendants "In my own life, in my own small way, I have tried to give back to...

9:18 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (11)

Inspiring video - Dancing beyond disability

Forwarded to me by Martha: God truly gave mankind a unique ability to overcome. This is powerful and inspiring. In a Chinese modern dance competition on TV one very unique couple won one of the top prizes. The woman, in her 30's, was a dancer who had trained since she...

7:30 PM in Disabilities, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama considering Landlord-in-Chief option

Okay, I gotta admit that I've had time to blog but just feel so overwhelmed with how the Democrats play their emboldened hand that I just don't know where to begin.  How about this breaking news?Obama mulls rental option for some homeownersTue Jul 14, 2009 3:07pm EDTNEW YORK, July 14...

5:04 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 13, 2009

MommyLife - now available in 13 languages

Thanks to Babel Fish! Now permanently ensconced in my right sidebar....

8:50 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Daily dose of perspective: When a soldier comes home

From Martha: WHEN A SOLDIER COMES HOME This email is being circulated around the world - please keep it going. When a soldier comes home, he finds it hard.... ....to listen to his son whine about being bored. ....to keep a straight face when people complain about potholes. ....to be...

10:49 AM in Inspiration, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (1)

Abortion research: negative impact on parenting

While the Mainstream Media Planned Parenthood groupies would like us to all remain blissfully unaware of the negative impact of abortion, in reality hundreds of thousands of women are coping with post-abortion stress syndrome.And while pro-lifers say there is not one, but two victims in every abortion - the baby...

8:59 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (10)

Elisabeth Elliot on Christlike love

I liked this because so often when people are honest and straightforward they are accused of lacking love.  I have always seen it from the opposite perspective:  that those who withhold the truth in an effort to spare feelings or to "be Christlike" are just as often the ones lacking...

7:32 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (5)

Pocket Doodles for Kids - great kid's gift idea

Remember MakeBelieve Comix - the site where kids can create their own cartoons? Bill Zimmerman also has a cute compact (4x6 book) and very clever creativity boost for kids who love to draw - 272 pages of picture prompts to spark their imaginations. I'm thinking this looks like a good...

7:07 AM in Art | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 12, 2009

Romancing the road

Tripp likes to send me (and you) something to start the week off on a bright note. Here's the latest:...

11:03 PM in Humor, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (6)

Closed on Sunday

I borrowed this from CatholicVote.org. If you're reading on Sunday, I did post 40 entries last week, so there's still a lot to catch up on! Feel free to drop me a comment just to say hi - that'll get me started tomorrow morning :) when I hope to...

9:12 AM in | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 11, 2009

Newsweek: Obama represents American Catholics better than the Pope

Yea, verily, Newsweek - first to bring us the news that We Are All Socialists Now - hath decreed: Without a Doubt Why Barack Obama represents American Catholics better than the pope does. Tomorrow Pope Benedict XVI and President Barack Obama meet for the first time, an affair much...

8:59 AM in Catholicism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (10)

Couple who adopted 12 children slain

Sometimes life doesn't make sense.  God, be merciful to these children - a comfort, strength and source or everlasting hope.  I imagine that Byrd and Melanie Billings will certainly be among those who hear, "Well done, my good and faithful servants."  So much wealth - but lavished on others rather...

8:05 AM in Death and dying | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 10, 2009

Sweet and funny story

From Amber:Those of you with small children will appreciate this:An  older, tired-looking dog wandered into my yard. I  could tell from his collar and well-fed belly that he had a home and was  well taken care of. He  calmly came over to me, I gave him a few pats on...

6:01 PM in Big families, Humor, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (4)

July 9, 2009

Amazon Sale - 4-for-3 on books and household items

8:31 AM in Bargains | Permalink | Comments (0)

Teaching kids about maps and their place in the world

While I can't see who places orders through my Amazon link - and thank you to all of you who remember to support MommyLife in this way! - I do have access to a report of products ordered. This has proven to be a rich resource as I come...

8:16 AM in Books, Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (6)

Justice Ginsburg espouses Sanger eugenics - NYT interview

This is amazing. And what is more amazing is that black leaders choose to ignore the fact that in their alliance with Planned Parenthood and pro-abortion Democrats, they are sleeping with the devil: This from the New York Times 7/7/09 interview with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Ginzburg: The Place of...

7:37 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 8, 2009

Les Miserables - pages 478-596

Last week's suggested assignment began on the other side of the seemingly unscalable wall where Valjean found refuge from Javert's pursuit, leaving his nemesis completely bewildered and frustrated. Hugo takes us to the front door of the place - which encompasses an entire block and turns out to be...

11:51 PM in Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (4)

Obama's approval index -5

Full story here.  Perhaps this will get his attention.  Perhaps we might see some change we can believe in. ...

8:20 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Focus on the Family huge adoption success

Isn't this great news?  I think we should start a Christian revolution - and begin to live the kind of lives that make us distinctly different.  The kind of lives where we stretch ourselves to give up material comforts and sign up for something sacrificial - not just for a...

7:48 PM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (5)

Where the Wild Things Are: teaching kids to control emotions

For my review of the movie, see Where the Wild Things Are: a big disappointment. Since we've been discussing - through comments - how to help children whose emotions seem out of control, I thought I'd rerun my rave review of a misunderstood classic. Here's why Where the Wild...

5:47 PM in Books, Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (7)

Beatles "Hey, Jude!" by diaper baby

4:10 PM in Humor, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

I have nothing to say about Michael Jackson

. . . . other than what a hideous state we find ourselves in that people are so bereft of meaningful heroes that they have to idolize a deeply troubled pop star.Oh - and how about Rev. Al Sharpton's over-the-top eulogy? Meanwhile young men and women are giving their lives...

4:05 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (6)

Obamas: exploiting the girls bigtime now

I guess with his popularity falling at home - and the Russian people decidedly (according to anyone outside the US) not so impressed with our Glorious Leader - our Globama Media have decided to pull out all stops - exploiting the Obama daughters to the max (including using them to...

12:14 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Michelle Obama - as arrogant as Barack

[btw, to all the MichelleObamaWatch fanatics visiting here and accusing me of being racist, unchristian, etc - I would be criticizing ANY American leader who behaved in such an arrogant/elitist way while the rest of the country is struggling. Christlike leadership is humble and servantlike - not raising itself...

11:44 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (14)

Elisabeth Elliot on surrendering to God

Discerning the Will of GodThe primary condition for learning what God wants of us is putting ourselves wholly at his disposal. It is just here that we are often blocked. We hold certain reservations about how far we are willing to go, what we will or will not do,...

11:20 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)

What is an encyclical? And why is Pope Benedict's important?

Sue asked "What is an encyclical?" Good question! The simple answer is that an encyclical is a letter from the Pope to bishops throughout the world. You can read more - including the encyclicals themselves - at Papal Encyclicals Online In regards to Pope Benedict's June 29 encyclical -...

10:59 AM in Catholicism, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)

Pope Benedict's encyclical: Pro-life wisdom for all believers

American radical feminists continue to push "family planning" - i.e., abortion, sterilization and birth control - through MegaCorporation Planned Parenthood in underdeveloped countries.  Ironically, The Left - which represents itself as tolerant and accepting of other cultures - feels no compunction about imposing their "values" on countries they determine to...

8:33 AM in Catholicism, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 7, 2009

My Sister, Alicia May - two winners!

Two winners of this sweet new book from the point of view of a girls whose little sister has Down syndrome. I like it a lot and hope ou do too! Two winners: Please can you enter me in the drawing, I think I might qualify ; ) My...

8:11 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama's hyperspending: The National Debt Road Trip

An attempt to make the incomprehensible comprehensible: I sure hope you share this stuff with your husbands and teens. And please pass on to family and friends using the Share buttons below....

2:34 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Brian Regan on Letterman - short but funny

Sorry to inflict David Letterman on you, but Brian Regan is so cool: Love Brian Regan! You can enjoy his humor - belly laughs at our house - and NEVER feel embarrassed with your children! Visit him at Brian Regan's Offical Website. Great CNN interview with Brian: Comedian Brian Regan...

2:20 PM in Entertainment, Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)

Loudoun County: art workshop for children

Just found out about this art workshop offered by Tim Chambers, an established professional artist who specializes in portraiture This looks like a great opportunity for budding artists!...

2:15 PM in Art, Homeschooling, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mothers and burn-out

Boy, could I relate to this. After all, I'm 61 and still have five kids at home. The upside of being an older parent is the wisdom. The downside is the lack of energy. But no matter how old or young, every mother can relate to this: Barbara, sometime could...

9:22 AM in Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (6)

Porn addiction - restoring your marriage

From Porn to Purity: Rebuilding a Marriage Broken By Porn OUR STORY Our world fell apart two years ago when my secret addiction to porn was discovered. I lost my ministry, my church, and for a time, my purpose. Even worse, my entire family suffered from the consequences of...

8:53 AM in Marriage, Pro-Life Issues, Resources | Permalink | Comments (3)

Life before "So You Think You Can Dance"

Tripp sent me this one Monday morning to start my week: How lovely. No T&A. No angst. No aggressive sexuality. No crazy woman/judge screaming about the Hot Tamal Train or her botox injections :) So cool. So smooth. So classy....

8:48 AM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (5)

Once in a lifetime moment tomorrow - July 8 2009!

Be sure to share this with your kids! At 12:34 (and 56 seconds) tomorrow we will experience something that happens only once in a millennium. Are you ready?? (drum roll, please)123456789 That's right.  It will be 12:34 (and 56 seconds) on 7/8/09. Just thought you'd be interested. Thanks, Sue!...

8:23 AM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (4)

Children: the Challenge - classic parenting advice

When I started parenting - in 1969! - there weren't that many how-to-parent books around. I don't envy today's parents, who face a staggering choice. How in the world to choose? As I was posting this morning's questions on tantrums, power struggles and control, it occurred to me that you...

8:01 AM in Montessori, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (1)

Toddler tantrums, power struggles, and control

Every morning I open email and deal with what I can as quickly as I can. Then there are emails with links I want to use, but since I'm posting an average of 9 times per day I hesitate to overwhelm everyone. Then there are emails from readers with...

7:24 AM in Mothering, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (17)

July 6, 2009

Lightning bugs or fireflies?

Here in Virginia, we say lightning bugs - at least I think we do. And as someone who brought 20some California natives back to the state which is the closest thing I have to home - I can't tell you how cool it is to be surrounded by people...

10:04 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (8)

Obama girls used to shill J. Crew

My, my, my.  I thought the girls were supposed to be so protected:Profiting off the ObamasJ. Crew hawks first daughter clothesBy CAROL E. LEEJ.Crew is using Sasha and Malia Obama to market some of its spring and summer styles, in a press release sent ...... to reporters Monday afternoon titled...

9:51 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)

Got kids? Why you need CPR

My latest article at Crosswalk: We Believe in Miracles - And CPR Barbara Curtis Crosswalk.com Contributor Eight years ago I nearly lost a son. I was finishing up errands when my cell phone rang My home number, but a voice I didn't know - calm, insistent, pressing the words into...

5:55 PM in Health | Permalink | Comments (1)

Michelle Obama bringing glamor to Russia?

I found this a little obnoxious: Michelle Obama bringing glamour to Moscow Michelle Obama brings her superstar glamor to Moscow this weekend as she accompanies her husband on his summit with the Russian president. But the American first lady, who has wowed publics in the U.S. and Europe with her...

4:23 PM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (10)

Honduras not a coup - inside report

From my Inbox this morning, a missionary report forwarded from a friend:Special Edition - July 4, 2009 Political Unrest in Honduras        The country of Honduras has experienced some rather profound changes during the last week, causing some of you to worry and to question how things are going for us. ...

2:40 PM in Honduras | Permalink | Comments (2)

National Gallery of Art - free film program for kids

Upcoming Films --> The Film Program for Children and Teens offers innovative film programming, enhances enjoyment of the Gallery's collections and exhibitions, and fosters an understanding of film as an art form. The program aims to represent a broad range of recently produced foreign and domestic films, including a...

2:20 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Forever Plaid Live in theaters Thursday July 9

Any Forever Plaid fans out there? Tripp and I have seen this twice in community theaters - but this event with the originals is too good to miss. A simulcast event from Los Angeles in selected theaters across the country. Highly recommended for anyone who loves music and harmonies: Forever...

1:55 PM in Entertainment, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)

How many more birthdays does America have left?

A must-read and must-pass-along-to-family-and-friends: How Many More Birthdays Does America Have Left? By Daniel Greenfield Monday, July 6, 2009 As America celebrates its 233rd birthday, it is worth taking a moment to ask, How many more birthdays does America have left? The fireworks burn bright. The flags wave high. There...

12:13 PM in Conservatism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Tea Parties ignored by press - check blogs, YouTube

[hand-made poster - as are all from the grassroots Tea Parties - a reference to Michelle Obama's campaign remark that for the first time in her life she was proud of her country. How quickly we have forgotten as her staff has waged an aggressive campaign to cram her down...

11:16 AM in Media Bias, Obama Nation, Tea Party USA | Permalink | Comments (2)

LOL: Should the government stop dumping money in a giant hole?

In The Know: Should The Government Stop Dumping Money Into A Giant Hole?...

11:13 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)

99 Balloons - bloggers scooped Oprah by over a year

Piggybacking on my last post - which mentioned bloggers scooping the BigTime Media on Nick Vujicic - I noted some time ago that Oprah and AOL News had finally discovered 99 Balloons, covered here in May 2007 - and just as poignant and meaningful today:99 Balloons - God uses the...

9:28 AM in Blogging, Disabilities, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)

Nick Vujicic: no arms or legs - but living life large

It's gratifying to see how bloggers are scooping major news outlets years in advance! I covered Nick Vujicic in February 2007: Joy has little to do with outer circumstances. From the 7/1/09 UK Daily Mail, via AOL News: Life without limb-its: The astonishing story of the man born without arms...

9:15 AM in Disabilities, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)

Got Disabilities? Beware Obama health plan

I know a lot of the disability community tends to be Democrat and liberal, but folks, it's really time to rethink things.  Your president, who you imbue with more warm fuzzies than he deserves, is at heart a cold and calculating man whose politics - based on Marxism - lead...

8:19 AM in Disabilities, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (7)

Why not government health care?

Just discovered Foster Friess, a champion of "networking for private sector solutions." He has a website you and your family might want to check out: And check out Friess's blog, too....

7:56 AM in Conservatism, Conservative resources | Permalink | Comments (1)

Birth of the Republican party: anti-slavery/anti-polygamy

American Minute for July 6th: A decade prior to the Civil War there were two major political parties in the United States: Democrats, favoring freedom of choice to own slaves; and Whigs, wanting a big tent party. In Ripon, Wisconsin, anti-slavery activists met on February 28, 1854, then held...

7:53 AM in Conservatism, Conservative resources | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 5, 2009

Closed on Sunday

I borrowed this from CatholicVote.org. If you're reading on Sunday, I did post 40 entries last week, so there's still a lot to catch up on! Feel free to drop me a comment just to say hi - that'll get me started tomorrow morning :)...

8:36 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (5)

July 4, 2009

Your product recommendations welcome

Just a reminder that you all can feel free to send me product recommendations to add to Barbara's Picks in the left sidebar. Anything that makes your life easier, healthier, safer, more fun or efficient. I can include your write- up too - it can be as simple as this:...

10:42 PM in Product Reviews | Permalink | Comments (1)

Pro-life symposium: Alan Keyes, Harrisburg, PA 9/12

September 12th, 2009 9:00 am-1:00pm War in the Womb: Civil Rights and the Unborn The National Civil War Museum One Lincoln Circle at Reservoir Park Harrisburg, PA 17103 Pro-Life Symposium Featuring Keynote Speaker Dr. Alan Keyes Symposium free of charge Doors Open at 8:30 AM For additional Information visit Keyes...

10:14 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kate Smith sings God Bless America

An amazing piece of American history - Kate Smith introducing Irving Berlin's "God Bless America" btw, the expression "It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings" was based on Kate Smith, who was an American icon. (Back in those days, fat wasn't as common as today - think about those...

3:28 PM in Music, Nostalgia | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama on Independence Day - as usual, all about him

As to be expected, rather than invoking our founding as a unique and noble moment in the history of mankind, our Glorious Leader Obama only seized it as another opportunity to advance his Marxist agenda. From the Washington Post: Obama Summons "Spirit of America," Seeks Support for Initiatives By Scott...

9:47 AM in July 4, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (8)

Declaration of Independence - read it with your family today

(Adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776) The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the...

8:16 AM in Conservative resources, July 4, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Signers of the Declaration of Independence - the price they paid

Rush has a piece well worth reading to your children today - and every July 4. It is an address given by his late father called Our Lives, Our Fortunes, Our Sacred Honor" about the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the aftermath. To whet your appetite, here...

7:57 AM in Conservatism, July 4, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

20 Great Reasons to Homeschool

HT: Catholic Blogging Homeschool Mamas...

7:42 AM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 3, 2009

Truth about Honduras spreading - not a coup at all

A 'coup' in Honduras? Nonsense. Don't believe the myth. The arrest of President Zelaya represents the triumph of the rule of law. Obama 'meddles' in Honduras -- and chooses the wrong side Obama's True Colors Shine in Honduras VIDEO PROOF-- US Media Is Propping Up Chavez Lackey Zelaya of...

10:37 PM in Honduras, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Regina Spektor - on laughing at God

Y'all know I love Regina Spektor. She's just come out with a song called "Laughing With" - about how we relate to God. Let me know what you think: Laughing With Lyrics: No one laughs at God in a hospital No one laughs at God in a war No...

10:08 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (9)

Spread the news with a MommyLife widget

I know busy moms already have a lot of responsibility - but In these rapidly changing political times, we need to know what's going on. Don't waste time watching TV propaganda - which lies and distorts while destroying anyone who speaks up against Obama. If you don't have time...

8:35 PM in Activism, Blogging | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sisters!

Sophia was going to Shenandoah with a friend and her family to see West Side Story tonight. But someone got sick, there was an extra ticket - and Maddy got to go too! A beautiful evening and two beautiful girls dressed up to go inspired me to grab my...

7:27 PM in Big families, Family | Permalink | Comments (5)

Prayer of St. Francis

7:17 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)

Honduras crisis - Obama on the wrong side

Beware of the Not-So-Hidden Agendas In Honduras Heritage Foundation - FOXNews.com - July 03, 2009 The Obama administration faces its first real Latin American crisis. Let's hope Team Obama is aware of the goals of democracy's new-found but fickle friends. Honduras presents the Obama administration with its first real...

6:40 PM in Honduras, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Support the people of Honduras! Spread the truth!

Looks like the Wall Street Journal had it right from the beginning - at least in this June 29 piece by Mary Anastasia O'Grady: Honduras Defends Its Democracy Fidel Castro and Hillary Clinton object.Hugo Chávez's coalition-building efforts suffered a setback yesterday when the Honduran military sent its president packing for...

6:34 PM in Activism, Honduras, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Honduras not a coup - spread the word now!

Please help to get the truth out. Honduras is a victim, not of our military, but of an organized Venezuelan disinformation campaign. Viva Honduras! Read more at Photos of the pro-government anti-Zelaya rallies. This is an incredible US Government dis-information campaign - so much like the dictator countries whose...

6:23 PM in Activism, Honduras, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Honduras not a coup - Why the lie?

View Larger Map I'm late addressing this, but just want to give you a brief scoop on the situation in Honduras as it says something very telling about Obama and what he really stands for. Remember how Obama was immediately very supportive of the mullahs and the rigged Iranian...

3:16 PM in Honduras, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (10)

Down syndrome awareness: My Sister, Alicia May

This is a special book giveaway. To enter you must have a child with Down syndrome with at least one sibling. Monday, July 6 at 9am I will pick two winners for the two copies Pleasant St. Press so graciously have provided. I love the book!!! It is so...

9:40 AM in Books, Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (14)

Elisabeth Elliot on the fear of loss

The Fear of LossIn C.S. Lewis' Screwtape Letters we see with startling clarity the cleverness of the enemy in deceiving human beings. Selfishness has a thousand forms, most of which we are slow to recognize for what they are. I was thinking about the fear of loss and what...

7:22 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 2, 2009

Congress traveling on your dime - up 10x since 1995

Yes, these are the same dictatorial hotshots who raked corporate leaders over the coals for availing themselves of company perks. Obviously emboldened and full of themselves. Let's start keeping tab on our individual legislators and publicizing their "junkets" with delegations to fun places that thanks to them we'll never see....

2:36 PM in Complaint Department, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

ObamaNation - for conservatives seeking political clarity

Readers have been purchasing these through my Amazon link - along with apparently a host of Americans, as they rank #1, #2 and #30 respectively at Amazon, giving me hope that the heart of our nation is not swept up in what Laura Ingraham calls "Glowbama." I appreciate the Glen...

7:28 AM in Conservatism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

July 1, 2009

Right at Home Homeschool Resource - July Links

Thanks to Right at Home - a gift to Loudoun homeschoolers, offering classes and other resources for these fabulous links they supply each month:TERRIFIC LINKS FOR JULY: Write Your Name In Sparklers The Declaration of Independence Free Copy of the US Constitution Test Your Constitution IQ Create An Online...

7:31 PM in Homeschooling, July 4, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Leesburg: Midsummer Night's Dream 7/11-7/26

Tim Jon, Artistic Director     Proudly presents:Shakespeare's popular comedyA Midsummer Night's Dreamto be performed outdoors at theMorven Park Boxwood GardensLeesburg, VAJuly 11-12, 18-19, and 25-26, 2009Saturdays and Sundays, 6:00 PMfeaturing the music of theAshburn Girls Guitar EnsembleTickets will be available only at the doorfor $10; students and seniors $5.Please bring...

7:09 PM in Entertainment, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Washington, DC: Free Military Band Summer Concerts

Military Band Summer Concert Schedule 2009 Washington, DC has enjoyed a tradition of live military band concerts since 1863. The Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force bands perform on alternating days throughout the summer. Concerts are free and no tickets are required. U.S. Navy Band - Mondays 8 p.m....

7:04 PM in Entertainment, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

Is the press beginning to turn on Obama?

Apparently, Obama had some kind of townhall meeting today so he could make it look like he has public support for his socialized medicine plan. I'm not sure if you all know how weird the behavior has been in the press room since Obama came into office, with the reporters...

6:30 PM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (8)

Last day of Book Sale!

Maybe you've noticed the banner up there? It's coming down tonight, so if you've been thinking about ordering, now's the time!...

11:11 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Free clothing and household - bring some, take some 7/2 Purcellville

Don't forget!!! And pass the word today. I'm bringing a lot of stuff - and looking for clothes for 4 boys 8-17. Hi everyone, Do you ever just want to clean out your closet, garage or basement and NOT have to tag it all for a yard sale for some...

9:36 AM in Bargains, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Youth Orchestra event for kids today at Ida Lee 3:00

If you can be spontaneous, you might want to gather up your kids our International Youth Orchestra in full rehearsal this afternoon I've taken my children before (snapped a few photos) and it is a wonderful event where children can see all the instruments up close and personal, ask...

9:09 AM in Everyday Heroes, Homeschooling, Loudoun County, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)