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December 2009

December 31, 2009

Welcoming a baby with Down syndrome

Left as a comment on a MommyLife post Baby with Down syndrome: What do you do? What do you say? hi i would just like to say that what you have written is so comforting and has made my day feel so much better, im 22 years old and yesterday...

3:24 PM in Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (14)

Health care crisis or cultural crisis? Plus: Snopes bias strikes again

From Wendy, a letter that appeared in the Jackson, Mississippi newspaper August 29, 2009: Dear Sirs: "During my last night's shift in the ER, I had the pleasure of evaluating a patient with an expensive shiny gold tooth, multiple elaborate expensive tattoos, a very expensive brand of tennis shoes and...

3:12 PM in Health, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Rush Limbaugh hospitalized in Hawaii following heart attack

Rush Limbaugh is resting comfortably in a Honolulu hospital after an apparent heart attack last night. The Left reacted with characteristic classlessness, dancing on his grave before he was there. Wikipedia actually reported him dead. Did these people ever transcend junior high? This is a current and accurate picture...

1:58 PM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (3)

Pelosi: Hawaii luxury, privacy - after undermining US economy

From the Hawaii Free Press:Monday, December 28, 2009 Pelosi enjoys privacy at Hualalai after Palin is hounded off Mauiby Andrew Walden While President Barack Obama enjoys a high profile vacation on Oahu, "progressive" House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) is being allowed to stay out of the limelight while luxuriating...

1:43 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 30, 2009

Down syndrome - one mother's perspective

I am so privileged to receive mail like this - and just want to share: Dear Barbara, My name is Molly and I live in south central Ontario, 2 hours northeast of Toronto, Canada. I stumbled onto your blog last week while googling information on tonsil removal / sleep...

5:26 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)

Catholics - is it time for you to come home?

I was baptized Catholic as a baby, but never really raised in the faith. A broken family and early abuse left me lacking a solid foundation and as an adult I fell into a chaotic and dysfunctional life for many years - although I didn't see it that way...

4:49 PM in Evangelical to Catholic | Permalink | Comments (1)

Oprah: don't ask me to promote her show

From today's correspondence: Hi Barbara, I'm writing to you on behalf of Harpo Productions to let you know that _______ episode of Oprah will feature some of the most fascinating ___________. [synopsis deleted] Be sure to check your local listings for the time this inspirational encore presentation. Thanks so much...

4:34 PM in Entertainment, Obama Nation, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (9)

The Third Jihad - overthrowing the US from within

Rerunning this in light of current events: The credentials for this documentary are impeccable. It was produced by a devout American Muslim who became concerned enough after 9/11 to being researching what is driving the Islamofascists. He is an MD in Phoenix Arizona who served in the US Navy....

2:02 PM in Islam issues, Obama Nation, Terrorism | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama: instead of defending America, puts us at risk

Regular readers here know that I have been pretty relentless in pointing out how Obama's insistence on campaigning for President of the World, dissing our allies and kissing up to our enemies, making targets of conservatives while playing softball with terrorists, reneging on promises of transparency and bipartisanship, and putting...

1:35 PM in Islam issues, Obama Nation, Terrorism | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 29, 2009

Trig Palin - changing our view of Down syndrome

An article published at Culture 11 during their brief existence in the fall of 2008: We've come a long way, Baby Trig! How baby Palin will change the discussion about children with Down syndrome. By Barbara Curtis, September 8, 2008 Last week when Sarah Palin took the stage at...

6:59 PM in Down syndrome, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (1)

Lisa Miller ordered to give up daughter, disappears with her

Breaking news: Vt. judge: Birth mom must give child to ex-partner  29 mins agoMONTPELIER, Vt. - The birth mother of a 7-year-old Virginia girl must transfer custody of the child to the woman's former lesbian partner, a Vermont judge ruled, adding that it seems the woman has "disappeared" with her daughter.Vermont Family...

6:30 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (12)

Children's stories on lying

Hi Barbara, I was wondering if you had any recommendations for children's books that deal with lying. My 4 year old has just started telling lies and I know that at this stage they learn moral lessons best through stories. I can't think of any off the top of...

5:52 PM in Books, Mothering, Preschoolers, Spiritual education | Permalink | Comments (2)

Boy Scouts of America: building character one boy at a time

In honor of the upcoming Boy Scouts of American Centennial, a MommyLife rerun circa 2007: A few months ago we had Boy Scouts at our church. Jonny fell in love with the uniform and decided he wanted to join. Now he goes to meetings every Monday with the troop and...

2:47 PM in Boys | Permalink | Comments (1)

Boy Scouts of America 2010 Centennial

Adventure Base 100 Experience Scouting like never before with Adventure Base 100! Created specifically for the 100th Anniversary Celebration, Adventure Base 100 is traveling the country to give people an exciting, hands-on view of the history and future of the Boy Scouts of America. This 10,000 square foot campus...

2:17 PM in Boys | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 28, 2009

Obama Nation: fascism marches on

One of the cleverest ruses of the Left has been to hurl the charge of fascism at conservatives when it's really the Left that has been heading in that direction for years (think of the lockdown on free speech on college campuses) and is now on the brink of...

4:48 PM in Continuing chaos, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama, Napolitano - soft on terroists while targeting citizens

I can't ignore the fact that our country is seriously threatened not only from without but from the extremely strange behavior of our Glorious Leader and his administration. While I am conducting my life as usual and tending to my family's needs - as I'm sure you are as...

4:05 PM in 9-12 Moms, Activism, Continuing chaos, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)

The Screwtape Letters - Washington DC must-see

Samantha and Kip gave us an early Christmas gift: a pair of tickets to see The Screwtape Letters at the Shakespeare Theater Company in Washington, DC. It was absolutely brilliant and mesmerizing - with an excellent adaptation from C. S. Lewis, great production values (set, costumes, sound), and phenomenol...

3:47 PM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (3)

Expecting a baby with Down syndrome?

From the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati: The Journey Ahead from Christian Appleby on Vimeo. Also, from Brian Skoto, brother of a woman with Down syndrome:...

3:29 PM in Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)

"Should I abort my Down syndrome baby?"

Mike Adams sent me something today written by Rabbi Tzvi Freeman - a new name to me. Rabbi Freeman's writing was so compelling, I began browsing and am postponing Mike's forward because I really want you all to read this: Abort Down Syndrome Baby? By Tzvi Freeman Question: I just...

3:03 PM in Down syndrome, Inspiration, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 27, 2009

HSLDA: Homeschooling the preschool years

HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association) has made their preschool brochure - on which I collaborated - available thorough a downloadable PDF file:...

11:40 PM in Homeschooling, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama vs. the Catholic Church

From RealCatholicTV...

7:08 PM in Catholicism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Adopting older children - advice needed

Hi Barbara, I love your blog and commitment to adoption. There are thousands of older children in the foster care program across the United States waiting for adoption. Sites such as Virginia's Waiting Children are full of kids who have been abused or neglected and are waiting for a permanent...

6:27 PM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (9)

Parents: why many say yes to Down syndrome

Excerpted from First Things October 22: Conscience, Courage, and Children With Down Syndrome by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput: Parents of children with special needs, special education teachers and therapists, and pediatricians who have treated children with disabilities often have a hugely life-affirming perspective. Unlike prenatal caregivers, these professionals have direct...

4:58 PM in Down syndrome, Inspiration, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)

Turning disappointment into joy

4:49 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

Sarah Palin in Wasilla - serving at Christmas

Hello Barbara - I thought you might be interested in seeing this post on my blog: The Christmas Friendship Dinner in Wasilla was a huge success! I was the volunteer coordinator for the Wasilla Christmas Friendship Dinner that Sarah Palin mentioned in her interview with Gretchen Carlson on Fox...

10:28 AM in Christmas, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (1)

Presidential Christmas Messages

American Minute by William FedererDecember 25 President Hoover wrote in 1932: "Your CHRISTMAS Service held each year at the foot of a living tree which was alive at the time of the birth of Christ...should be continued as a further symbol of the unbroken chain of life leading back...

8:42 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)

The Bible in public schools - yes we can!

Dear Barbara,  I was greatly encouraged when I recently learned about you and your website via The Glenn Beck Program.  As a stay-at-home Mom of three--ages 5 ½, 4, and 2 ½--I share your concern over the current state of affairs in our country, and I was thrilled to hear...

2:01 AM in Inclusion, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (4)

Loudoun County Public Schools: teacher problems

A friend of mine who was an ardent public school supporter recently moved her children to a Christian school. I asked her to share what led her to this decision: I moved out here three years ago from Fairfax County public schools. My first child has excelled in school since...

1:47 AM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (4)

Change - the kind we really need

From William: CHANGE Let's all REMEMBER the following for the elections of 2012: Not long ago I read a joke... It said all the politicians running for president are promising change to the American people. We send them billions and billions of tax dollars and they send us the...

1:17 AM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 26, 2009

My Gene Profile - marketing scam

I actually couldn't believe it when these people contacted me in November to see if I would be interested in joining their marketing scheme directed at parents: a genetic test which would - at considerable cost - lay out on paper the talents and aptitudes of their children based...

11:50 PM in Complaint Department | Permalink | Comments (0)

Homeschooling: sacrificing social skills?

Hi Barbara, I loved reading Mommy, Teach Me. My little guy is only 14 months but i want to get a head start on developing a love for learning. I would like to home school. Is it possible to home school using the Montessori principles from preschool through 8th...

10:15 PM in Homeschooling, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (12)

Michigan passengers foil terrorist attack

Breaking news - good for a change - and a reminder that we need to be an alert citizenry: Passengers help foil attack on Detroit-bound plane Dec 26, 8:49 AM (ET) By JIM IRWIN Google sponsored links Masters in Diplomacy - Earn a Masters in Diplomacy Online at Norwich...

11:32 AM in Good news, Terrorism | Permalink | Comments (1)

American Idol begins January 12

American Idol fans, we're a little less than three weeks away from the Season Nine premier, which will begin by covering the auditions held last summer: - Tuesday January 12 8-10PM ET/PT - Season Premiere Part 1, Boston Auditions - Wednesday, January 13 8-9:15PM ET/PT - Season Premiere Part...

11:14 AM in Entertainment, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

Purcellville: best Chinese food - Hot Wok

If you live in western Loudoun and love Chinese food, you should know that the best place in Purcellville is Hot Wok - located on Main Street in the shopping strip which also houses Blockbuster, Wings (best onion rings in the world!), Twice Upon a Child (consignment shop) and...

10:54 AM in Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (1)

Bumbo seats - great for babies with Down syndrome!

I found one of these at a children's clothing swap last summer. I'd never seen one and didn't know what they were called - but having raised four babies with Down syndrome (1 by birth, 3 by adoption - now 17, 14, 13 and 9), I immediately saw the potential...

10:19 AM in Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 25, 2009

The joy of large families

HT Jawan:Don't miss the joy A large family is a gift that 'stuff' cannot replace | Matt Anderson Illustration by Ali Douglass Everyone knows we live on an overpopulated planet. Too many people (carbon footprints) harm our environment, causing global climate change, a threat to us all. In addition, increasing...

7:06 PM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (6)

Vatican praises The Simpsons

From the UK Daily Mail:Okely dokely do! The Simpsons mirrors modern man's need for faith, says VaticanDecember 23The Vatican newspaper has declared The Simpsons an 'okely dokely' lot - as Homer's Christian neighbour Ned Flanders would put it.In an article entitled 'Aristotle's Virtues and Homer's Doughnut', the L'Osservatore Romano paper...

5:21 PM in Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (0)

Linus: The true meaning of Christmas

From A Charlie Brown Christmas (the annual television special which Obama pre-empted this year for his big Afghan announcement):...

3:02 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

Merry Christmas - never forget the reason for the season!

I will be making  a conscious effort to wish everyone A Merry Christmas this year ... My way of saying that I am celebrating The birth Of Jesus Christ. So I am asking my email buddies, If you agree with me, To please do the same. And if you'll pass...

1:17 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (3)

Derek Loux RIP

Please pray for the Loux Family. Derek Loux, who was a mover and shaker in the Christian adoption world - died in a car accident 12/23, leaving a wife and children (including two adopted with Down syndrome) behind - as well as a ministry: Dear IHOP family, Derek Loux, who...

2:49 AM in Adoption, RIP | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 24, 2009

Christmas blessings to you

Please click below to open your card:...

5:48 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)

White House Christmas Tree - Mao, transvestites, and Obama on Mt. Rushmore

In contrast to President Reagan's respectful tone, here we have the decorations on the current White House occupants' Christmas tree - from Breitbart's Big Government:Why let a holiday season come between the White House and making some political statements? The White House pegged controversial designer Simon Doonan to oversee the...

5:01 PM in Christmas, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Ronald Reagan on Christmas in the White House

4:58 PM in Christmas, Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 23, 2009

MommyLife hits 2 million mark

Earlier today, MommyLife had its 2 millionth visit (according to Sitemeter - Awstats is currently recording 8000 visits/day). Thanks to all of you who find something worth while here! And a special shout-out to a few trolls who get agitated enough to speak up every once in a while...

2:56 AM in Blogging, My life | Permalink | Comments (6)

The ultimate Disney collection - 3 CDs for under $10 at Amazon

Look what I found! I know there's no image, but I found this beautifully boxed set of 3 CDs - 78 Disney's hits - at a thrift store. Came home and looked it up and found that it goes for $75 new. Amazon has many used sets - some with...

2:49 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 22, 2009

Healthy lifestyle - humor

From Martha:Q: Doctor,  I've heard that  cardiovascular exercise can prolong life.  Is this true?  A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it...don't waste on exercise.  Everything wear out eventually.  Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by...

10:40 AM in Health, Humor | Permalink | Comments (3)

Birth control shot linked to bone problems

From LifeSiteNews (I don't expect to see this covered by the Tired Old Media since it doesn't fit with their agenda): Study Finds Half of Women on "Birth Control Shot" Suffer Bone Problems Monday December 21, 2009 Nearly half of women using depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), commonly known as the...

7:55 AM in Big Pharma, Health, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 21, 2009

Obama and Palin - a contrast in personal histories

From the American Thinker (HT:Tripp): November 27, 2009 The Competing Narratives of Barry and Sarah By Jack Cashill In the spring of 1964, Sarah Heath, then just three months old, flew into backwater Skagway, Alaska (population 650) aboard a 1930s-era Grumman Goose to start a new life with her...

6:27 PM in Obama Nation, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (2)

Why Jesus is better than Santa Claus

Chanse sent this: Why Jesus is better than Santa Claus Santa lives at the North Pole ... JESUS is everywhere. Santa rides in a sleigh ... JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water. Santa comes but once a year ... JESUS is an ever present help....

5:50 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 20, 2009

Praying with Lior - Down syndrome Bar Mitzvah

Here's a film we need to support - and thanks to Kathy!...

11:29 PM in Down syndrome, Movies | Permalink | Comments (1)

Pray for Daniel and a quick recovery

I will be MIA tomorrow for a while. Hoping the roads are okay so I can get to Ashburn with Daniel, who will have 12 teeth removed by Dr. Wu tomorrow morning. I know, it sounds terrible. For some reason, kids with Down syndrome have problems losing their baby...

10:30 PM in Down syndrome, Family | Permalink | Comments (6)

Make-ahead Christmas Morning Scramble

This is the Curtis traditional Christmas Breakfast Scramble. I make this on Christmas Eve afternoon so it's ready to pull out of the refrigerator on Christmas morning to cook while we unwrap presents. We usually have croissants and orange juice blended with strawberries and ginger ale. Christmas Breakfast Scramble...

4:50 PM in Christmas, Recipes | Permalink | Comments (4)

Introvert children? Tips for parents

What a great resource - thanks to Jane for the tip! Tips for Parents: Introverts Lind, S. Characteristics of Introverts * Have two personas -- private and public * Are private people who enjoy doing things by themselves and who reveal inner most thoughts to only a few *...

12:22 PM in Mothering, Personality types | Permalink | Comments (4)

Shame on Ben Nelson for selling out at our expense!

From American Thinker:December 19, 2009The High Price of Ben Nelson's Low VoteMarc SheppardDemocrat Ben "Dover" Nelson, who had previously threatened to join a GOP filibuster of the Senate Health Care Bill, proved today that everything has a price - including a man's values.  The Nebraska Senator just accepted what I'll...

12:15 PM in Government Corruption | Permalink | Comments (3)

Dispensation from Mass - St. Francis parking lot snowed in

From the Arlington Diocese:All baptized Catholics are obliged to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation. However, there are particular circumstances or conditions that may excuse a Catholic from this obligation. If you are ill, homebound, or if there are severe weather conditions that make attending Mass...

10:39 AM in Loudoun County, Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (1)

9 Curtises + Snow (update)

I have to admit, at my age I like to look at the snow through the windows. And make hot chocolate for the rest of the family when they come in. But I did manage to take these pictures: Proud papa: ~~~~~~~ Art note: in the scene at the...

4:15 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (4)

Balancing politics plus hearth and home

From my Inbox: I've been meaning to e-mail you for quite a few months now to tell you how much I enjoy your blog. You have opened my eyes to the arts (an area where I feel God missed me in the "artistic" gene!), plus you political commentary has...

3:42 AM in 9-12 Moms, Activism, Art, Mommy Patriots, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (7)

December 19, 2009

Words Move Me giveaway deadline tonight

Don't forget: the deadline for the Words Move Me contest is tonight at midnight. And remember: from on my product reviews and giveaways will be on a separate page - which you can access with the green box at the top left sidebar....

8:22 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Adoption: answering God's call

From Boundless - The Line (HT: Jawan): Babies Bring Hope by Candice Watters on 12/18/2009 at 11:50 AM At Boundless we're big fans of babies. Among the families of the staff (Steve, Motte, and Ted) there are 13 children, by birth and adoption. Now, in an interview just out with...

7:42 PM in Adoption, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (3)

1 Corinthians 13 - a Christmas version

1 Corinthians 13 - a Christmas VersionIf  I decorate my house perfectly with plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights and shiny balls, but do not show love to my family, I'm just another decorator.If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of Christmas cookies, preparing gourmet meals and...

5:37 PM in Advent, Christmas, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

Loudoun County Schools closed Dec 21 and 22

*************UPDATE: 1/26/11 *************** Loudoun County Public Schools are closed today! Haven't received the robo-call yet, but Tripp is a school bus driver and he's gotten the news. Just announced: Loudoun County Public Schools will be closed December 21 and 22 Thank you Dr. Hatrick, for making an early call...

3:58 PM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)

Big families bloglist - join now!

If you know anyone with a big family, you may want to pass this on - and if you have seven or more children, sign up your own! Welcome to the Mega-Family Blog List! We started this list as a way of bringing Mega-Families together to support and learn from...

2:59 PM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (1)

White House humor

The couple that sneaked into the White House without any credentials!!!!!             HT: Amy...

2:28 PM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Family Photo Contest

Is Your Family Photo a Winner? December 04, 2009 | Share with Friends Dear Barbara, Let's face it, family photos aren't easy to get. From children fidgeting, to getting everyone wearing the proper attire, to blinking eyes and lighting, just getting one good shot can often be an ordeal....

2:14 PM in Contest | Permalink | Comments (0)

DC today: snow on snow on snow

Looking out our back door at 10 am this morning: Somehow I think that God must be might pleased to allow record cold and snow across the globe just as the Church of Man-Made Climate Change - because it really requires faith that flies in the face of reason -...

11:50 AM in Family, Good news | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 18, 2009

Congress abusing travel privileges at taxpayer expense

From The Wall Street Journal - while keeping in mind that these are the same self-important people who castigated private sector CEOs for living too high on the hog: Congress Travels More, Public Pays Lawmakers Ramp Up Taxpayer-Financed Journeys; Five Days in Scotland By BRODY MULLINS and T.W. FARNAM EDINBURGH...

12:59 AM in Government Corruption, Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (0)

Elisabeth Elliot on Mary, the Mother of God

The Mother of the LordWe see her first, that little Mary (may I say little? I think she was a teenager), as a simple village girl in a poor home in an out-of-the-way place. She is bending over her work when suddenly the light changes. She raises her eyes....

12:31 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)

Global warming humor

You can tell I'm dealing with my Inbox tonight :) - this is from Sue: Hundreds Gather to Protest Global Warming...

12:26 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)

Real-life Bambi and Thumper

From Martha - a real life Bambi and Thumper: From Disney: From real life: From photographer Tanja Askani. See more at Animal Intelligence...

12:21 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Michael Crichton on Global Warming

From my Inbox: Michael Crichton on Global Warming Michael Crichton was one of the most popular American writers of our day. Well known for his book, Jurassic Park, and for the television series he wrote and produced, ER, he was also a director, screenwriter and graduate of the Harvard School...

12:16 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Abortion survivor speaks out on healthcare and education

Education and healthcare are useless without right to life, says abortion survivor Nashville, Tenn., Dec 17, 2009 / 08:12 am (CNA).- Melissa Ohden, the survivor a failed saline abortion at six months, admitted to CNA in an interview that she "was actually pro-choice" until she learned at age 15 that...

12:09 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 17, 2009

Germany jails 8 dads for opting kids out of sex-ed

Yes, it is a long way from us in terms of miles, but we have to make sure in our country that children are the responsibility of their parents, not the property of the state. Every step we take toward globalization impinges on parental rights: Germany Jails Eight Christian Fathers...

11:59 PM in Globalism, Parental Rights | Permalink | Comments (0)

Vickie Farris needs our prayers

Many of you have been praying for Vickie Farris since September when she began experiencing excruciating pain which was eventually identified as interstitial cystitis. I just received this from Mike Farris: Barbara Vickie has found out that she has chronic Lyme Disease as well as interstitial cystitis. The conditions...

11:37 PM in Homeschooling, Prayer needs | Permalink | Comments (2)

The Art of Manliness - cool book and website

Thanks to all of you who've been placing Amazon orders through my link! My own interests are often expanded through browsing your purchases - I can see what is bought, though not who bought it. The Art of Manliness was on the list yesterday - I checked it out...

8:14 PM in Books, Boys | Permalink | Comments (0)

To Senator Casey: no vote for abortions, please

From CatholicVoteAction: Dear CatholicVote Subscriber, Big news. We just released a new ad focused on Senator Casey in Pennsylvania. Watch the new commercial at www.CatholicVoteAction.org. Our new ad will begin running on both FOX News and CNN in Pennsylvania tomorrow and throughout the weekend Senator Casey is a Catholic...

7:16 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)

Starbucks a la M. C. Escher

Not sure where I found this or who's responsible. But if you've ever been to New York City, where there's a Starbucks on nearly every corner - or seen that Simpsons Bart and Homer are rushing to get into a store before it becomes the next one converted to...

5:46 PM in Art, Humor | Permalink | Comments (5)

Dockers Man-ifesto on real men

The New York Post weighs in: New Dockers 'wear the pants' ad campaign for soft khakis brings charges of sexism Real men are set to wear the pants again - at least if you believe the new Dockers ads for khakis. But some are seeing subtle sexist overtones in...

3:20 PM in Boys, Feminism | Permalink | Comments (3)

Product reviews and giveaways

Please don't forget to check the Product reviews and Giveaways page on a regular basis as I can no longer post them on my main page. Just click the box at the top left sidebar....

7:18 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 16, 2009

Obama threatens bankrupt America if no health bill

National debt now above official debt limit... Obama signs $1.1 trillion spending bill...Union pulls back on supporting Dem health care bill...And what about this:BIG SCARE: OBAMA WARNS USA 'WILL GO BANKRUPT' WITHOUT HEALTH BILL...Maybe he means he will punish us with more wealth redistribution and killing of jobs....

9:21 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Had enough of Obama's hope and change yet?

Americans Souring on Democrats Support for the Democratic Party is slumping amid a wave of public discontent, according to a new Wall Street Journal/NBC News poll. The findings underscore how dramatically the political landscape has changed during the Obama administration's first year. In January, voters were optimistic about the...

9:08 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

My latest Palin Tracker at Pajamas Media

My latest Palin Tracker at Pajamas Media:PalinTracker: Religion, Messin' with Al Gore, a Dead Heat with Obama A round-up of activity in the Sarah Palin camp. (An ongoing PJM series) December 16, 2009 - by Barbara CurtisSarah's now twittering at SarahPalinUSA.December 4AP reports: Palin says nation should rededicate itself to...

12:59 PM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)

12/15 Code Red Rally at Capitol w/Laura Ingraham

I didn't go because Zachary had surgery, but heard there were 5000 people: Where is the Tired Old Media coverage?...

12:41 PM in Activism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Final push to defeat health care "reform"

I've been backing off politics to fill my lungs with the fresh air of Christmas, but it's important to rally our forces today.  All of you need to make a few phone calls.Yesterday 5000 people showed up at the US Capitol for a last minute Code Red Event promoted by...

12:24 PM in Activism, Health, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (0)

Leesburg's Tally Ho Theater $1 Christmas series

The wonderful - and very family-friendly Tally Ho Theater in Leesburg is offering a series of Christmas movies for just $1.They also have $3. Thursday nights.The Tally-Ho is an older theater with an interesting history:About the Tally Ho The Tally Ho Theatre opened for showings September 21, 1931, with the...

9:54 AM in Christmas, Entertainment, Loudoun County, Movies | Permalink | Comments (0)

Firearms Refresher Course

Vida sent this: FIREARMS REFRESHER COURSE 1. "Those who hammer their guns into plows will plow for those who do not." ~Thomas Jefferson 2. Those who trade liberty for security have neither. ~John Adams 3. Free men do not ask permission to bear arms. 4. An armed man is a...

9:00 AM in Guns, Liberty | Permalink | Comments (0)

Elf Yourself card - with me!

Since September, I've been part of a growing group called Catholic Conservative Women of Loudoun. You've got to check out this animated card I just received from my friend Julie: Elf Yourself Great idea for your family!...

8:51 AM in Christmas, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)

Rahm Emmanuel threatens military base to force Nelson's vote

I am so disgusted by the Chicago strong-arm tactics O&Co are using to force this health care "reform" down the throats of the American public. This is shameful. Democratic senators are not allowed to vote their conscince or to listen to their constituents. If Ben Nelson continues to hold...

8:36 AM in Government Corruption, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Introversion and motherhood

This comment from Kristen came in this morning on an old post about introverted moms:I actually found this post by googling "introversion" and "motherhood". Obviously, I must be struggling with it if I'm sitting here researching it! I find myself exhausted most days, just from being around my kids, and...

8:28 AM in Mothering, Personality types | Permalink | Comments (13)

December 15, 2009

Congressional spending spree while we cut back

9:58 PM in Complaint Department, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

Ben Stein on Christmas

There are some variations of this piece that have been emailed around for years - I've got a couple in my Inbox right now. But I always check before I publish something and so I went to the source: Ben Stein's website: Herewith at this happy time of year, a...

5:48 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

Giveaway page - now up and running

I'm so sorry. I launched the giveaway page late last night and left early this morning to take my son Zachary in for surgery - he had to have the metal removed that had been installed in his ankle following his motorcycle accident last May. So I got home...

2:01 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Product reviews and giveaways

From now on my product reviews and giveaways will be on a separate page - just remember to click on the link at my top left sidebar to find them! The Words Move Me promotion is the first! Check it out - follow the link at top left!...

1:33 PM in Contest | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 14, 2009

Season's Greetings - whatever that means :)

Margaret sent this: To All My Democrat Friends: Please accept with no obligation, expressed or implied, my best wishes for an environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low-stress, non-addictive, gender-neutral celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable traditions of the religious persuasion or secular practices of your choice,...

8:37 PM in Christmas, Humor | Permalink | Comments (3)

Leesburg Courthouse Nativity Scene - Loudoun children love it

For those confused about the final outcome, after the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors had a second round at the holiday display debacle, they came up with a policy which basically gives any group the right to put up anything on the Courthouse lawn. I guess some atheists and...

7:42 PM in Christmas, Loudoun County, Montessori, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 13, 2009

At Christmas: Thank you to our military

A Different Kind of Christmas Poem The embers glowed softly, and in their dim light, I gazed round the room and I cherished the sight. My wife was asleep, her head on my chest, My daughter beside me, angelic in rest. Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white,...

6:18 PM in Christmas, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (2)

Flight of the Conchords

Something my Big Kidz recently turned me on to - Flight of the Conchords: Last night we watched a Flight of the Conchords collection from Netflix. I laughed out loud a lot. This is not squeaky clean material, though, so use caution. My Big Kids are in their 20s....

3:36 PM in Humor, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)

Public schools and Christmas Music: Yes, We Can!

My latest at Pajamas Media:Public Schools and Christmas Music: Yes, We Can! Yes, We Should! When multiculturalism trumps Christmas, culture is the loser. December 13, 2009 - by Barbara CurtisThe purging of Christmas from the public square, workplace, and shopping center has produced a weird paralysis among those special gatekeepers...

10:42 AM in Christmas, Public schools, Religion | Permalink | Comments (3)

Christmas carols - go beyond the first verse!

by William Federer December 13 Phillips Brooks was born DECEMBER 13, 1835. The bishop of the Episcopal Church in Massachusetts, Brooks is probably best remembered for a song he wrote two years after the Civil War, which goes: "O little town of Bethlehem! How still we see thee lie;...

8:46 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)

Mark Steyn: Obama's speech strategy

Do you read Mark Steyn? He has a brilliant way with words - and great insights. This from today's Once More from the Top, Barack! The Obama speechwriting team don't seem to realize that. They seem to be the last guys on the planet in love with the sound of...

8:32 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Sarah Palin on Conan O'Brien

Sarah Palin on Conan O'Brien...

12:11 AM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 12, 2009

Step baskets

I'd never seen these until I came across one at Ross some years ago - it really changed my life! Just kidding. . . well, maybe. If you can't think of anything to ask Santa for, maybe this is it:...

8:51 PM in | Permalink | Comments (2)

I'm Yours - ukelele kid

Over 2 million views in six days? You can see why:...

4:32 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)

Leesburg Christmas Parade - Maddy sings

Maddy sang on a float in the Leesburg Christmas parade today. Here she is waiting for the parade to start: The float was sponsored by the St. John's Knights of Columbus, and it led the parade: Here's Maddy, singing "O, Holy Night" With the children afterwards: And with a...

3:35 PM in Christmas, Family, Loudoun County, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)

Blogger censorship of conservatives continues

Thoughts from a Conservative Mom may be up and running, but Blogger still has not responded to Rachel's requests for access to her account so she can retrieve her archives. Any conservatives with Blogger accounts should take action now to protect your work - either by backing up or...

8:46 AM in Blogging, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (3)

Thoughts from a Conservative Mom - visit her new site

After being shut down by Blogger - presumably because of her Blog Title - Rachel is blogging again at Wordpress with her own domain name. Please visit her at Thoughts from a Conservative Mom. Those of you blogging at Blogger need to beware: this can happen to you. So...

8:30 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (2)

Government jobs booming - and paying more

Voters have got to understand what is happening - and you need to explain this to your Obama-supporting friends. Our Community-Organizer-in-Chief is doing everything within his power (and remember the days when the Democrats were hollering because they wanted to decrease the power of the executive branch?) to destroy the...

8:17 AM in Government Corruption, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 11, 2009

Leesburg Nazarene Living Nativity 12/12 and 12/13

This is a wonderful tradition for many Loudoun families - and people who come even farther. The Church of the Nazarene does a wonderful job: Bring a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy! 17667 Roxbury Hall Road, Leesburg VA 20175...

7:24 PM in Christmas, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

Leesburg Christmas Parade Tomorrow!

Saturday, December 12 Leesburg Christmas Parade 10 AM from St. John's past the Courthouse Look for the Living Nativity float - and Maddy singing!...

7:07 PM in Christmas, Family, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)

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 5895 entries and...

12:54 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (1)

Advice needed on buying used laptop

Burning the midnight oil here as I have a few appointments tomorrow morning, but so much to catch up on in my email - much of which is stuff to be shared here. Anyway, I need some advice. I am going away next month for ten days and I...

12:47 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (10)

Marriage tax penalty in Health Care "Reform"

You need to spread the word on this: Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, Email lists:Marriage Penalty Hidden in Health Care Reform by Kim Trobee, editorHigher premiums may discourage people from getting married.A closer look at premium payments in both the House and Senate health care bills shows higher premiums that might...

12:40 AM in Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (3)

Tiger Woods: didn't anyone care?

I don't have a lot to say about Tiger Woods, but isn't it unbelievable that no one cared enough about him to intervene in his out-of-control behavior? And my question to you moms and dads: have you talked to your children about this? So often we don't realize that...

12:23 AM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 10, 2009

Why mothers make great political candidates

One of the coolest things about the meeting last week with the Board of Supervisors about the Courthouse Nativity Scene/Christmas Tree/menorah was to see my friend Wendy get up - looking and sounding so professional. I announced to all our friends that we'd better start getting her ready to run...

11:46 PM in Activism | Permalink | Comments (1)

Retro Green Bean Casserole - variations

A Campbell's publicist just sent me this recipe. I must admit I was surprised to know that our family is not the only one eating this retro holiday dish. I remember when it first became popular 50 years ago. My daughter Samantha makes it each year for our Thanksgiving feast....

11:10 PM in Recipes | Permalink | Comments (3)

Blogger: censoring conservative sites?

[Update: As of 12/12, Blogger still has not given Rachel access to her site. Rachel is up and running at Wordpress: Thoughts from a Conservative Mom - but has no access to her archives. Shame on Blogger!] Blogger appears to have shut down a blog without warning for political...

10:30 PM in Blogging, Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (12)

Tiger Woods humor

from Lucianne: More alleged Tiger Woods' girlfriends line up to sell their stories I know the Tiger Woods situation isn't funny, but these ladies sure are! I'm assuming they're from the Red Hat Society....

12:51 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)

Christmas Ornaments - family tradition

Every year I give each of my children a special Christmas ornament. Each child also has a special box to hold his ornament collection for eleven months between Christmas trees. Some years I look far and wide to come up with individual ornaments. Some years I get a certain...

11:23 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (5)

Christmas - focus on family

I know the news is horrible out there, but I'm stepping back for a while. Still scanning Drudge for headlines, but I just don't want to talk about it. For everything, there is a season - which means it's important to listen to the still, small voice about when...

9:51 AM in Christmas, Family, Mothering, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)

Straight No Chaser - 12 Days of Christmas

From Amelia - the most unusual 12 Days of Christmas ever:...

9:49 AM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)

The Ivory and Gold Tablecloth

Another gem from Becky: THE IVORY AND GOLD TABLECLOTH Howard C. Schade At Christmas time, men and women everywhere gather in their churches to wonder anew at the greatest miracle the world has ever known. But the story I like best to recall was not a huge miracle --...

8:59 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 9, 2009

Cripple Creek - Buffy Sainte-Marie and other versions

The somewhat sad but completely wonderful part of blogging at my age is that I often find myself with a dozen open windows, wondering what I came into this room for. At 61 you find that all these scattered experiences begin to connect. You're still learning! Life is so...

10:54 PM in Mothering, Music | Permalink | Comments (3)

Cold Sassy Tree - must-read

I really love this book. It's the kind of book that you start with no idea of how it will touch you. It wraps itself around your heart like a sweet potato vine (a line from Cripple Creek). It's character driven and plot-driven at the same time, the kind...

10:29 PM in Books | Permalink | Comments (2)

Celebrating Jesus at Christmas - keeping things in perspective

Rebecca sent this: Letter from Jesus about Christmas It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been...

9:06 AM in Christmas, Lent | Permalink | Comments (6)

Elisabeth Elliot on having many children

This was such a treat today from Elisabeth Elliot's daily devotionals.  Keep in mind that EE had originally freaked out when her only child began having a lot of children, but resolved her issues with God's help: A Child Learns Self-DenialOne of the countless blessings of my life is having a...

8:49 AM in Big families, Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 8, 2009

The Allman Brothers: Jessica

One of the love languages around my house is sharing music. I love that my kids have such broad taste and they are always discovering new things - especially indy music. Zach made me a CD and I put it in while driving the car only to hear Jessica...

10:20 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

Curtis kids at DC Monet exhibit 2002

One Saturday shortly after we moved to Virginia in 2002, the kids and I went to one of the art museums in DC (can't remember which right now) to see this 3-dimensional Monet exhibit. Sophia told me recently that her sweetheart Josh (yes, she has a brother named Josh...

7:14 PM in Art, Family | Permalink | Comments (1)

Down syndrome awareness: Christmas cards

From my Inbox - great idea to remember each year - after all, our ob-gyns, geneticists, only see our babies when they are born. Some of us new parents are in grieving mode. Wouldn't it be nice if they had a yearly reminder that a diagnosis of Down syndrome...

7:10 PM in Christmas, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)

12 Days of Christmas for a large family

You will LOVE this! Thanks to Jane, who saw it posted at Conversion Diary...

7:07 PM in Big families, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)

Missouri school surprise: Obama logo school supplies

The Columbia Daily Tribune reports: Supplies with Obama logo surprise school By Jonathon Braden Thursday, December 3, 2009 A notebook sold to a student out of a supply machine at Mill Creek Elementary School bears a logo and slogan similar to those used in the Obama campaign last year....

5:15 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Palin polling within one point of Obama

From Drudge:GALLUP: NEW LOW AT 47%... ...ONLY 26% THINK HE DESERVES NOBEL POLL: PALIN PULLS WITHIN 1-POINT OF OBAMA......

12:04 PM in Obama Nation, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)

Obama ignores Pearl Harbor /getting scarier each day

Melanie asked: What was the President doing yesterday? I don't recall hearing anything about him visiting Pearl Harbor. Did he at least have a lunch at the White House for some of the veterans? Since he's the first president from Hawaii I know there is no way he could...

11:04 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Obama approval continues to drop

December 7, 2009 After Brief Uptick, Obama Approval Slips to 47% New low follows slight increase after announcement of Afghanistan policy by Jeffrey M. Jones PRINCETON, NJ -- Barack Obama's presidential job approval rating is 47% in the latest Gallup Poll Daily tracking update, a new low for his...

12:44 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 7, 2009

Kristin and the Santa Secret - winner

The winner of Kristin and the Santa Secret is: I still believe! :) I'd love to win this book-- I just looked it up on Amazon and it would be the perfect thing for my 5 and 8 year olds who are asking lots of questions about Santa. I...

6:40 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)

Sarah Palin at the Gridiron Club

The Gridiron Club is normally a private affair, and I guess it stayed that way for the other speaker - Barney Frank - as I have heard not a peep about him. Which is just as well :) But Sarah's remarks are all over the news today. And she...

4:54 PM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)

ASL: Christmas carols, hymns and patriotic songs

A reader asked about the sign language for Of The Father's Love Begotten. I was unable to find anything for that, so can only refer you all to the American Sign Language site to look up the individual words and put it together. But along the way this morning I...

10:06 AM in Christmas, Disabilities, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)

Desiree Rogers wanted to junk White House creche

I guess the most surprising thing about this is that the creche did end up being displayed.  Desiree Rogers is the one responsible for the unparalleled glitz and glamor - skyrocketing cost and lapses in traditional protocol - of the Obama White House.  Lately in the news for refusing to...

9:24 AM in Islam issues, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 6, 2009

GAP commercial - little girls growing up too fast

What do you think of this? On the one hand, there's a lot of cuteness, on the other hand so much exploitation. . . . ....

10:11 PM in Girls | Permalink | Comments (31)

Loudoun Valley: Oliver! tomorrow night - with Maddy!

Saturday night's performance of Oliver! at Loudoun Valley was canceled due to heavy snow (I know, I haven't written about our very exciting first snow, but between the Friday night and Sunday performances - plus the Purcellville Gazette Christmas party, speaking at a women's Christmas tea, Mass this morning...

9:43 PM in Family, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (1)

Loudoun still bans Leesburg Courthouse Christmas Tree, Nativity, Menorah

[Though it is called the Leesburg Courthouse, this ban on holiday displays is the fault of Loudoun County, which owns the land where the Leesburg Courthouse stands.] Apparently, though the Board of Supervisors last Tuesday overturned the ban on holiday displays - handed down at the last minute by...

8:58 PM in Christmas, Loudoun County, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (4)

Thumb sucking - your advice, please

Hi Barbara, I have been reading your blog for about a year now and love it. You do a great job of summarizing all the important issues for mothers in one place. Here is a question that I have conflicting thoughts about. My daughter is 4 1/2 getting close...

12:30 AM in Mothering, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (19)

Mark Steyn on America's PC self-destruction

Monday, November 09, 2009Nuts   [Mark Steyn]For the purposes of argument, let's accept the media's insistence that Major Hasan is a lone crazy.So who's nuttier?The guy who gives a lecture to other military doctors in which he says non-Muslims should be beheaded and have boiling oil poured down their throats?Or the guys...

12:06 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 5, 2009

Movies: Choosing Wisely and Raising Kids Who Will Too

My latest at Crosswalk:Movies: Choosing Wisely and Raising Kids Who Will TooBarbara CurtisWhen it comes to movies, my husband Tripp and I are very protective of our children - though it sometimes feels like we're alone in this endeavor.  After decades of hearing, "But all my friends are seeing it....

10:44 AM in Entertainment, Movies | Permalink | Comments (5)

Palin Tracker - my latest at Pajamas Media

PalinTracker: Accent Explained, Dining with Graham, Going Birther?A round-up of activity in the Sarah Palin camp. (An ongoing PJM series)December 5, 2009 - by Barbara CurtisFor 10 days it might as well have been Palin Planet.Millions saw Sarah's duel of icy-nicey with Oprah -- but it was much more...

10:36 AM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (1)

Meeting the Marines - Obama and Bush

Mr. Hail to the Chief vs. Mr. Real. Did you know Bush didn't allow Hail to the Chief to be played when he met our troops?...

10:22 AM in Military matters, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (4)

Children's Christmas gifts - choosing the best

Every year readers ask for ideas for enduring, meaningful gifts for their kids at Christmas. The first thing you need to know is that you don't have to spend a lot to impress a child. The key is understanding the things that bring children joy and that help release...

10:05 AM in Christmas, Montessori, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (5)

Children's Christmas Gifts - music appreciation

Three key points on choosing children's gifts: *You don't have to spend a lot to impress a child. The key is understanding the things that bring children joy. *Kids' gifts should be chosen not for their ability to entertain the child, but on releasing his potential to entertain himself:...

9:47 AM in Christmas, Montessori, Music, Preschoolers, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 4, 2009

Loudoun Valley High - Oliver! - this weekend

Maddy is playing Nancy....

4:18 PM in Entertainment, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)

Obama: why the constant campaigning?

This has got to be the most expensive administration in history - spending our money to keep the Campaigner-in-Chief in the news day after day after day. And partying big time week after week. Why can't he just stay in the White House like other presidents and do his job?...

1:38 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)

Silent Monks sing Handel's Hallelujah Chorus

Dads read MommyLife too! Thomas sent me this - you will love it: I'm also intrigued by his business, which is helping others with ethical investing:...

1:20 PM in Christmas, Humor, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kidkraft Dollhouse 50% off at Amazon!

Wow. This is a great deal. We have the KidKraft Large Kitchen for Justin and my grandchildren and it is very well made. Normally 227, Amazon is selling this for 115. - which includes all the furniture. And there is free shipping - just remember to click on Super...

12:53 PM in Bargains, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

Norman Rockwell Christmas Book at Amazon for .01

This is a beautiful hardcover edition which was the first of our Christmas library. If you are a young family, it is a wonderful tradition to have special books that come out just at Christmas. I love watching my kids get excited to see them - like greeting old...

12:35 PM in Art, Bargains, Books, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)

Good Morning - from Singing in the Rain

They just don't make movies like this anymore. If you haven't seen Singing in the Rain, you definitely need to now - and watch it with your kids for even more fun. At your local library - or another reason for joining Netflix, a Christmas gift that will keep on...

7:56 AM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 3, 2009

Of the Father's love begotten

I wanted to share this Christmas hymn with you - it's one of my favorites. This is just a rehearsal tape - of the Catawba Choir - but it outshone everything else I listened to. Such a beautiful and worshipful song to our Lord: And I love this mom's...

11:33 PM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)

Kristin and the Santa Secret - book giveaway

Christopher Fenoglio wrote Kristin and the Santa Secret based upon the way he and his wife Linda told their three children (Kristin, Connor and Tommy) about Santa Claus. He has generously donated a book to be given away at MommyLife. Leave a comment and I'll draw Monday morning....

4:42 PM in Books, Christmas, Contest | Permalink | Comments (40)

Advent music- Handel's Messiah

If you've never gotten into classical music, I can't think if a better way to start than Handel's Messiah - nor a better time to start than now. Messiah is based on the foretelling of the life of Jesus, his birth, death, and resurrection. It is composed entirely of...

8:20 AM in Advent, Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (8)

Advent books, music, calendar, puzzle - for grownups and kids

This round-up of Advent resources contains some real gems. I was stunned when last year Jennifer brought us dinner last week and gave us a copy of Jotham's Journey as I had wanted a copy for some time but they were so hard to come by that used copies...

8:03 AM in Advent, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)

Advent Conspiracy - rethinking Christmas

From the Advent Conspiracy site: What is Rethinking Christmas? This is a community site for you to share your stories and ideas for the season of advent. To particpate, contribute your gift ideas, and post questions and comments in the forum. HT: Sheryl...

7:54 AM in Advent, Christmas, Downsizing, Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (1)

Advent hymns

I love hymns. I love the intelligence and the poetry. I love the way they give melody to our theology, voice to the longings of our hearts, and specific praise to Our Creator. People often ask how our family produced so many good singers. My answer: in the formative...

7:37 AM in Advent, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (5)

December 2, 2009

Book nook - sling bookshelf

Great deal on a book display - with free Super Saver shipping from Amazon: Which reminds me I've been meaning to remind you all about creating a reading nook for your child. Occasionally I receive pictures of ways in which moms have implemented some of the ideas in Mommy, Teach...

7:58 PM in Montessori, Preschoolers, Reading | Permalink | Comments (2)

Quit AARP! Join Generation America!

Spread the word. Tell your parents. I know there are many, many citizens who can no longer trust AARP after they threw their members under the bus for Obama. Many have already quit AARP. Now people over 50 have an alternative: Generation America. Read this message from the founder and...

5:04 PM in Aging, Health, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (8)

Obama speech on Afghanistan

I couldn't bear to watch Obama's speech last night. The utter hypocrisy of him traveling to West Point where he knew the cadets would have to receive his political equivocations respectfully - while he tried to placate every faction in the country at the same time. We will fight,...

4:43 PM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)

Reagan on Christmas and the situation in Poland 12/23/81

What a contrast with a President who favors promoting Muslim holidays - did you know that the day before Thanksgiving he issued a special Hajj message (and why do these always sound more enthusiastic than any of his throwaway notes on American holidays? - and who seems to feel so...

4:24 PM in Islam issues, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)

No treats from Barack Obama

From Wendy:...

1:30 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)

Stand for Christmas: how Christmas-friendly are retailers?

You definitely want to visit Stand for Cristmas, where you can rate retailers for their Christmas attitude and perhaps make decisions where you want to spend your Christmas dollars:How "Christmas-Friendly" Are Retailers?Millions upon millions in our nation deeply value the great truths of Christmas and the holiday's inspiring place in...

1:23 AM in Activism, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (5)

December 1, 2009

Leesburg Courthouse Christmas ban overturned!

We won!!! I had a feeling there would be a happy ending to this story!! The vote was 7-1-1 to overturn the ban on holiday displays. Supervisor Kelly Burk said: "That property is public property owned by the people. The people have the right to use that property for...

3:38 PM in Activism, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (5)