February 2010
February 28, 2010
Big Apple Circus at Dulles - discount tickets!
So excited! The The Big Apple Circus is returning to Dulles Town Center March 6-27! We've been going every year since 2002. The Big Apple Circus is a traveling circus from New York that comes and sets up shop here for a couple weeks. If you live on the east...7:37 PM in Entertainment, Fun Stuff, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Lenten music: As the Deer Panteth for the Water
This is a beautiful song to teach your children: and here's a beautiful instrumental:...5:00 PM in Lent, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Lenten tradition: baking pretzels
From Amy - a Lenten tradition you can make part of your family's practice: baking pretzels:Lenten PretzelsFR. WILLIAM SAUNDERSDo pretzels really have anything to do with Lent? The pretzel indeed has its origins as an official food of Lent. However, much of the information available is based on tradition that...4:44 PM in Lent | Permalink | Comments (2)
Heart for Haiti necklace giveaway
Tracy at JunkPosse (and Etsy) is giving away one of these necklaces which she created to raise money for Habitat for Haiti. She let me know so Maddy could enter, and much as I would like to keep the number of entries low to increase Maddy's chances of winning,...4:24 PM in Haiti | Permalink | Comments (0)
Haiti Update: Father Frechette
This is a very long read, but a gripping dose of reality about what is going on in Haiti - by a journalist following Father Rick Frechette, who has been ministering in Haiti for years and currently is working to bury an endless stream of bodies: Love Among the...3:13 PM in Haiti | Permalink | Comments (0)
Diary of a snow shoveler
From my Inbox: The Diary of a Snow Shoveler December 8 6:00 PM. It started to snow. The first snow of the season and the wife and I took our cocktails and sat for hours by the window watching the huge soft flakes drift down from heaven. It looked...11:12 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)
Catholics - is it time for you to come home?
I know there are a lot of Catholics out there who somehow missed the central message of our faith. I'm not sure why that happens, but I know it does because it happened to me. My story in the smallest nutshell: I was baptized Catholic, but brought up in...9:34 AM in Catholicism, My life | Permalink | Comments (7)
February 27, 2010
Nigel Farage skewers EU President Herman van Rompuy
HT Anne - who wonders why someone can't speak the truth so boldly to Obama....3:52 PM in Globalism | Permalink | Comments (2)
Photos: Mothers and children with Down syndrome
On Mothers Day 2007, I published a photo album of pictures of mothers with children with Down syndrome. They say every picture tells a story, and I figured these pictures would tell the story better than the thousands of words I've written in an effort to eliminate the fear...3:18 PM in Down syndrome, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)
Down syndrome - one mom's story
When Traci wrote to thank Maddy for her positive message about Down syndrome on American Idol, she shared a bit about her son with Down syndrome and I asked if I could share it here: Hi Barbara, Below is small glimpse of our story... On December 16th 2008, I gave...2:01 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 26, 2010
Maddy Curtis sings Hallelujah
Another cut from the Maddy Sings for Haiti benefit concert January 31. This was the song Maddy sang in Boston for the American Idol judges - Randy, Kara, Simon and Victoria Beckham - winning the very first Season 9 Golden Ticket to Hollywood. Maddy did this benefit, which raised over...1:35 PM in Loudoun County, Maddy, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
Welcome Tinfoiler fans!
With 8000+ visits /day, I'm always glad for more traffic - Please spend some time looking around! For your musical enjoyment:...1:25 PM in Obama Nation, Oppression, Resistance | Permalink | Comments (9)
Adoption: Coping with language barriers - your ideas, please!
I know a lot of readers here have been involved in interantional adoptions or have friends who have. Counting on some good advice for coping with language barriers: Barbara, I have been reading your blog for 2+ years now! I need some direction on how to help with a...12:45 PM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (2)
Middleburg: Haiti Benefit concert tonight - Maddy too
MIDDLEBURG VA - Project Helping Hand Haiti Feb 26 2010 - 7:30pm Andrew McKnight will be appearing in a benefit for Haiti tonight at the Middleburg Community Center. Maddy Curtis will sing, including a duet with Tom Sweitzer. In addition, many local artists have donated work to an auction....12:30 PM in Haiti, Loudoun County, Maddy, Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (0)
56% say government a threat to citizens' rights
Just one year under a Radical Leftist Tyrant has done what conservatives were unable to do before the election. Rejoice, for the end of this oppression is growing closer and closer to reality - even if it takes time: CNN Poll: Majority says government a threat to citizens' rightsPosted: February 26th,...12:30 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (0)
Happy Birthday, Victor Hugo!
February 26: Victor Hugo's Birthday "God is behind everything, but everything hides God," wrote Victor Hugo in his classic Les Miserables, Book 5, Chapter 4. Born FEBRUARY 26, 1802, Victor Marie Hugo was hailed as the greatest of the Romanticists poets. He is best know for writing Cromwell, 1827,...11:57 AM in Books, Les Miserables Book Study | Permalink | Comments (0)
A reading journey through Africa
For several reasons, my African reading journey has come to mind this week. Rerunning this entry from June 2008 to draw your attention to some books worth your time: I am still not feeling 100%. You know it's bad when I lie around for hours reading - which I did...11:18 AM in Books | Permalink | Comments (4)
Divorced Islamic 10-year-old tells her story
[I apologize for the couple of seconds of ridiculous annotations in the first few seconds of this video. I was unable to find another clip, the clip is excellent and the nonsense is over in the first few seconds]: This multiculturalism nonsense we teach in public schools has got to...10:03 AM in Girls, Islam issues, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 25, 2010
Handwriting worksheet maker
Create worksheets in seconds!The Amazing Incredible Handwriting Worksheet MakerMake free handwriting worksheets of your child's name - letters or sentences.BASIC PRINT D'NEALIAN STYLE CURSIVE DOT TRACE Large Size -13/16 inch DASH TRACE Medium Size - 10/16 inch SEPARATED LETTERS Medium Size DASH TRACE Medium Size - 10/16...6:25 PM in Homeschooling, Preschoolers, Resources | Permalink | Comments (1)
God's Pharmacy - you are what you eat
This has been bouncing around the Internet for some time, unattributed: God's Pharmacy is Amazing! It's been said that God first separated the salt water from the fresh, made dry land, planted a garden, made animals and fish... all before making a human. God made and provided what we'd need...5:41 PM in Health | Permalink | Comments (3)
Maddy Curtis update
Maddy is getting jobs singing here and there - which is great as she's saving up to get a car as soon as possible. She's getting her permit tomorrow.For those wondering how she's handling losing on American Idol - well, let's just put it this way: with Maddy, nothing seems...3:43 PM in Family, Maddy | Permalink | Comments (1)
Loudoun Symphony Family Concert Saturday!
Loudoun Symphony Orchestra Mark Allen McCoy, Music Director and Conductor PRESENTS "Fairy Tales, Furry Tails" Annual Family Concert Saturday, February 27th, 4pm Stone Bridge High School, Ashburn "Fairy Tales, Furry Tails" featuring Loudoun Ballet Company Don O'Brien, narrator Laura J. Bobrow, storyteller Music includes:...3:23 PM in Loudoun County, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Stop the "r" word - take the pledge
As I said in my Crosswalk article What About the "R" Word? Does It Matter? As I write this, 71, 627 have signed the pledge to stop using this word. If you do seize this teachable moment with your family, this is a great follow-up....2:55 PM in Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (3)
The "r" word - why Rahm is guilty and Rush is not
From Sara: With all due respect, Barbara, don't forget that Rush Limbaugh is also guilty of using the R word. I don't expect you to post this as a comment. :) Sara, I don't know exactly what you mean about not expecting me to "post this as a comment" -...2:15 PM in Down syndrome, Liberal Hypocrisy, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (4)
Children's books on disabilities
Another book round-up, to complete the series Down syndrome - books for parents and Children's books on Down syndrome. I have linked to Amazon so you can read more about these books and if you buy them there, a small percentage comes back to support this site. But mostly...7:49 AM in Books, Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (1)
Children's books on Down syndrome
See also Children's books on disabilities Down syndrome - books for parents...7:49 AM in Books, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
Down syndrome - books for parents
When Jonny was born 17 years ago, there were only a couple books available on Down syndrome. Now look at what's available: It's so ironic that our culture has evolved in compassion and caring towards individuals with Down syndrome even as 90% of babies diagnose prenatally are aborted. In...7:45 AM in Books, Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama iconography - our turn speaking truth to power
Following up on Obama icon goes Islamic for Missile Defense, I want to rerun this thought-provoking analysis for you: You need to watch this with your family. A great way to educate your children on the power of symbols to seduce and silence the public: Barack Obama ran an unprecedented...12:40 AM in Obama Nation, Oppression, Propaganda | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama icon goes Islamic for Missile Defense
From Drudge: New Missile Defense Agency Logo Causes Online Commotion... Islamic flag? Crescent moon and starSee also Obama Iconography - our turn speaking truth to power...12:38 AM in Islam issues, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Jonny the Bagger
Speaking of R being the new n-word - but sadly one which liberals feel no compunction about throwing around - one thing I've learned from having sons with Down syndrome (1 by birth, 3 adopted) is that the world has it wrong in the way we measure the worth...12:16 AM in Down syndrome, Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (3)
February 24, 2010
Paperback Swap - free books!
This is amazing!! At least for a household of book lovers like ours. A couple years ago, Angie told me about PaperbackSwap - where you list your books (hardbacks too) and agree to send them free as people order them (usually 2.38 media mail). For every book you sell,...8:54 PM in Bargains, Books | Permalink | Comments (5)
Lenten music: O Sacred Head, Sore Wounded
HT: Jane Duquette Please feel free to send more suggestions....7:56 PM in Lent, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
We are a Christian nation
No matter how they try to deny it, we are a Christian nation. In fact, the only reason Hollywood stars and radical gay activists have the freedom to trash America and denounce Christianity is because Christianity is a tolerant religion. Do they know they would be the first ones to...7:48 PM in Anti- Americanism, Inspiration, Liberty | Permalink | Comments (0)
African Adoption: Love in the Driest Season
I thought of this book yesterday when someone wrote me of their pending adoption from Ethiopia. This riveting story of a couple who adopted a baby from Zimbabwe is sure to resonate with any parents involved in international adoptions. I published my review in 2006, and now you can...7:27 PM in Adoption, Books | Permalink | Comments (3)
February 23, 2010
Lenten music: Nothing But the Blood of Jesus
Someone asked me about music for Lent. Over the next few weeks, I'll be sharing sacred music, traditional hymns and worship songs which seem right for the season: Please share your suggestions, too....3:33 PM in Lent, Music | Permalink | Comments (4)
Dallas Tea Party to Keith Olberman
Wow, does he have egg on his face! HT: Tripp...3:05 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Tea Party USA | Permalink | Comments (2)
The Return of the Prodigal Son - Eldest Brother
Sorry, I'm a week late posting this - and feeling as imperfect as a blogger can feel :) I have to admit that as a new Christian hearing the tale of the prodigal son, my sympathies shifted between the youngest and eldest son. On the one hand, as a...1:50 PM in Books, Return of the Prodigal Son | Permalink | Comments (4)
Teaching kids to tie shoes
Rerunning this for the benefit of new readers: Meg asked about teaching kids to tie shoes. I have to admit, I find this one of the most daunting requirements of being a mother. I personally have always tied my own shoes the "wrong" way: by making two loops and...11:56 AM in Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (1)
Problems with comments?
If you've left a comment at MommyLife in the past few days, would you please let me klnow if it hasn't appeared? My BlogGuru is working on some some server problems and we want to make sure everything is functioning properly. Thanks!...10:50 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Hand That Rocks the Cradle
The Hand That Rocks The Cradle Is the Hand That Rules the World Blessings on the hand of women! Angels guard its strength and grace, In the palace, cottage, hovel, Oh, no matter where the place; Would that never storms assailed it, Rainbows ever gently curled; For the hand...8:45 AM in Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)
ParentalRights.org - you need to join
Have I told you lately you need to join ParentalRights.org? They are tracking, exposing, and empowering us to fight government encroachment on parental rights. Check out their website - you might want to subscribe to their Email Alerts, as I do. The one I received today was one many...8:32 AM in Obama Nation, Oppression, Parental Rights | Permalink | Comments (0)
Glimpses: Mass for the troops in Afghanistan
I really appreciated this glimpse into our heroes' lives: In Afghanistan, Sunday Mass on a makeshift altar By CHRISTOPHER TORCHIA The Associated Press Monday, February 22, 2010; 1:01 AM BADULA QULP, Afghanistan -- The U.S. Army brigade's Catholic priest spits, smokes, cracks jokes and has come under fire like...8:23 AM in Catholicism, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 22, 2010
Montessori at home - a child-friendly environment
A MommyLife Golden Oldie - because I know there are new people here - and all of us (me too!) need reminders now and then :) No mother has to experience the Terrible Twos (or Threes or Fours or Fives). All it takes is understanding and practicing a few Montessori...11:32 AM in Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (2)
Martin Luther on motherhood
Our natural reason looks at marriage and turns up its nose and says, "Alas! Must I rock the baby? Wash its diapers? Make its bed? Smell its stench? Stay at nights with it? Take care of it when it cries? Heal its rashes and sores? And on top of...11:02 AM in Inspiration, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
The Making of a Marine - Princeton/OCS grad Jordan Blashek
The Making of a Marine "Ultimately ... [it] was a duty I could not, and should not, leave for others to assume." The short essay below is by Jordan Blashek, Princeton 2009, who decided to turn down acceptance to medical school to join the U.S. Marine Corps and enter...9:42 AM in Everyday Heroes, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (1)
Check my Reviews and Giveaways!
Don't forget to check the Product Reviews and Giveaways page - See the link in the top left sidebar? I've added a date underneath so you can see what's going on. Next giveaway tomorrow at 9 am!...9:15 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Stations of the Cross - for all believers
Evangelicals tend to be suspicious of Catholic symbols and rituals. Perhaps this needs to be revisited. There are symbols and rituals connected with honoring our country, for example - as well as personal traditions which bond family members and build a heritage. Why wouldn't it be okay to have...8:50 AM in Catholicism, Inspiration, Lent | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 20, 2010
More Lenten traditions
While we're on the subject of evangelicals who want to observe Lent, here is an article I originally published in Christian Parenting Today in the late 90's - long before I became Catholic - which shows the yearning and the answers I came up with: 10 Lenten Traditions to Enrich Your...8:50 AM in Lent | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 19, 2010
Green Eggs and Bam - must-see video
From Nick - and you will definitely want to pass this on:. Not since Seuss's Sam I Am has someone offered something so revolting so often. Brilliant! From BulletPeople , which poduces and carries some other biting satire and funny stuff....4:20 PM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Lent for children: booklet and calendar
[See also Children and Lent: Making it real for families] From my friend Molly, two resources for children that will make Lent and the preparation for Easter real: Today's Thought: Why? When you make something all by yourself, don't you love it and take great care of it? We all...1:52 PM in Lent, Preschoolers, Spiritual education | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama shows Dalai Lama the back door
Our Fearless Leader, kowtowing before China, held an off-the-record - no photo op - meeting with the Dalai Lama in a side-room at the White House, then showed him the backdoor, where Tibet's spiritual leader left by the garbage. Full story at the UK Daily Mail. Contrast the Dalai Lama's...11:01 AM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)
Obama: our tax dollars for his gain
More disgusting news. I guess this way he gets back at the Las Vegas mayor who refused to meet with him because of his second public slap at Vegas - plus he can buy more votes from recipients of his "free" money. As someone who lost our house to...10:41 AM in Government Corruption, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Can abortion hurt me?
Aren't you growing more and more uncomfortable with the one-sidedness of the abortion debate? Where the discussion is framed by pro-aborts and a propaganda press? Where the emotional, psychological, social and cultural debris is swept under the rug so we can rejoice in a "Woman's Right to Choose"?Time for each...10:13 AM in Oppression, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
How abortion hurts women - a feminist reflects
How Abortion Hurts Women Erika Bachiochi Over the last three decades, the abortion debate has been characterized as the clashing of rights: the human rights of the unborn on the one hand and the reproductive rights of women on the other. This decades-long rhetorical deadlock has left a good number...9:47 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
Abortion enslaves women
Carol at Parenting Freedom sent this link from CNA (Catholic News Agency). We really need to learn to defend our pro-life position through this kind of logic - which, btw, is precisely what the First Wave Feminists argued: 'Right to abortion' enslaves women, expert warns Madrid, Spain, Jan 16,...9:19 AM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 18, 2010
Ash Wednesday reflections
I know. It's Thursday. But this week and each individual day seems to be slipping by too quickly and I am still reeling from our recent Snowmegeddon which saw 9 members of the Curtis family currently resident under one roof for 10 days. In wild and wonderful western Loudoun,...6:41 PM in Catholicism, Inspiration, Lent, My life | Permalink | Comments (15)
Snow humor
12:39 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 17, 2010
True Catholicism - no compromise
Another gem from RealCatholicTV: You can sign up for RealCatholicTV in your email. They've been doing a great job reporting on the USCCB scandal....6:56 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (4)
February 16, 2010
Barbara Curtis at Frederick County Right to Life 2/19
I'm speaking Friday night: Feb 19, 2010, 6:30 - 9 p.m. Frederick County RTL Banquet $25 - Info & tickets: ">Angie or John Let me know if you're coming and I'll look for you there!...7:55 PM in My life, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
To Jennifer: Why pro-lifers will prevail
Just to expand on my reply to the "Respectfully, Jennifer" comment, here's a little something I published January 22, 2006 - on the anniversary of Roe v. Wade: I've been on both sides of the abortion debate. As a 60's Washington radical leftist/antiwar activist, I was actually one of...6:35 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (6)
Maxine on flag burning
Maxine is on Hallmark....6:22 PM in Conservatism, Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
Planned Parenthood loses VA's pro-abortion license plate fees
Part 2 of the VA pro-abortion license plate story: Information Alert: Planned Parenthood's License Plate Plans Scuttled in House This afternoon, Delegate Robert Brink's (D-48, Arlington) Planned Parenthood license plate was debated on the House floor in preparation for tomorrow's final vote. This bill would create a specialty license plate...6:08 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pro-life books, curriculum for children?
Any ideas from readers? Hi - I don't know how I got on your e-mailing list but am enjoying it. Do you have any suggestions for teaching pro-life to children of all ages either in the form of a lesson plan or list of suggestions? Thanks for your help. Bev...4:45 PM in Preschoolers, Pro-Life Issues, Spiritual education, Teens and Tweens, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (3)
Pro-abortion license plates approved for VA
[Update: there's a twist - Planned Parenthood will not receive the funds from these plates! Expect some litigation, as they really are not about choice at all] Abortion-rights license plate approved February 16, 2010 - 3:00pm RICHMOND, Va. - The House and Senate have passed bills to create an abortion-rights...4:32 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (5)
Obama seeking new twitterer
From the Wall Street Journal 2/12:Obama Is Hiring a TwittererCalling all job-seekers: President Barack Obama is looking for an official Twitterer. Associated PressWant to tweet for Obama? The Democratic National Committee's "social networks manager" job description says the position entails maintaining the President's accounts on Facebook, Twitter and MySpace.Mia Cambronero,...1:12 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Loudoun Favorite Tree photo contest
The Loudoun County Arbor Day Committee is sponsoring the 13th annual "Favorite Loudoun Tree Photo Contest" to draw attention to some of Loudoun County's most precious assets. This year, the Arbor Day celebration will be held at Morven Park on Saturday, April 24, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m....12:58 PM in Contest, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 15, 2010
Lose the Training Wheels workshop - Fairfax 3/29-4/2
The LOSE THE TRAINING WHEELS CAMP is an opportunity for children with disabilities to develop the skills and confidence they need to ride a two-wheel bike for the first time. We use specially adapted bikes which allow children to progressively build the coordination needed to ride independently. A trained...10:23 PM in Disabilities, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
Obama plans power grab through executive orders
I don't know which is more chilling - the Left's recent calls for violence against the Right, or the news that Obama plans to bypass further discussion and seize power through the liberal use of Executive Orders. As reported in the New York Times, with their approval no doubt. Reminds...9:33 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (1)
CNN, Huffington Post urge violence against Republicans
CNN, Huffington Post Urge Violence Against Republicansby Kristinn Taylor Two of the most popular liberal news sites are calling for violence against Republicans for obstructing the radical agenda of President Barack Obama.CNN and Huffington Post have each published op-eds this past week by regular contributors with headlines that explicitly call...8:56 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
Lock Laces for kids who can't tie shoes yet
Or anyone who likes the concept! Susan M. left this comment on my search for no-tie laces for my sons with Down syndrome whose shoe-tying skills are not keeping pace with their feet which have outgrown most velcro-closure shoes: I just got an e-mail this morning from Lock Laces....8:16 PM in Disabilities, Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (2)
Pennies - an inspirational story
In the same batch of email as the MSNBC poll, was this story currently making the rounds. I like it, and it suggests an easily incorporated and very practical devotional for everyday people like you and me. But I'll share it after the story: Pennies You always hear the...6:57 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
Poll: "In God we trust" on currency?
MSNBC has a live poll up: Should the motto "In God We Trust" be removed from U.S. currency? So far, 18,234,941 responses Go Vote to see the results! Related stories (per MSNBC): Worker: I was fired for wearing 'God' buttonJudge: Ky. can't legislate dependence on GodStory: Atheist challenges mottoAtheists want...6:42 PM in Activism | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 14, 2010
Smile Train ; changing the future of children
Highly recommended charity: addOnLoadHandler(function(){ document.getElementById('donate-top-link').href='Donation2?df_id=1020&1020.donation=form1'; }); var t=setTimeout("secondarynavReset()",500); function secondarynavReset(){ document.getElementById('secondary-nav1').style.left='-999em'; document.getElementById('secondary-nav1').style.top='0'; } function timeoutReset(){ t=setTimeout("secondarynavReset()",500); } function timeoutResetoff(){ clearTimeout(t); } function secondarynav1(){ document.getElementById('secondary-nav1').style.left='0'; document.getElementById('secondary-nav1').style.top='22px'; } addOnLoadHandler(function(){ document.getElementById('media-top-link').href='http://www.smiletrain.org/site/PageServer'; }); var t=setTimeout("secondarynavReset2()",500); function secondarynavReset2(){ document.getElementById('secondary-nav2').style.left='-999em'; document.getElementById('secondary-nav2').style.top='0'; } function timeoutReset2(){ t=setTimeout("secondarynavReset2()",500); } function timeoutResetoff2(){ clearTimeout(t); } function secondarynav2(){ document.getElementById('secondary-nav2').style.left='0px'; document.getElementById('secondary-nav2').style.top='22px'; } #navigationText...7:46 PM in Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (0)
Maddy Curtis: "The Nearness of You" American Idol audition song
People have asked about the song Maddy sang in Hollywood. It was edited so strangely that it was almost unrecognizable. Since she sang it two weeks later at the Maddy Sings for Haiti benefit, I asked the videographer to make a clip for YouTube so you could see what...6:54 PM in Entertainment, Family, Maddy, Music | Permalink | Comments (5)
Irena Sendler, not Al Gore deserved the 2007 Nobel
The story of a nominee for the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize - a courageous Catholic woman - who lost to Al Gore and his "Climate Change" cronies and fatcats (all making money off the "science" now revealed to have been a complete fabrication: Irena SendlerAn unsung heroineThe Holocaust -...8:43 AM in Everyday Heroes, Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (6)
February 13, 2010
MommyLife newsletter
Just in case you missed it: I sent out my February Newsletter yesterday - my second monthly . If you would like to be signed up to receive this monthly compilation of highlights from MommyLife, as well as resources and a dose of inspiration - please sign up with...8:15 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Valentines Day: do you have a song or story?
This Valentine's Day, I'm wondering if you and your hubby have an "our song"? Tripp and I had our first date on his 28th birthday - September 15,1982. I was 34 with two little girls. Love x Love was "our song" - sung here live by George Benson. We were...5:35 PM in Valentine's Day | Permalink | Comments (7)
Amercian Minute: Alexander Solzhenitsyn
American Minute with Bil Federer February 13 "Man has forgotten God, that is why this has happened" was Solzhenitsyn's response when questioned about the decline of modern culture. A Russian author, Solzhenitsyn was imprisoned for eight years by Joseph Stalin, as he described in his autobiography, Les Prix Nobel:...5:25 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
Why Switzerland has the lowest crime rate in the world
See also: How Barbara Got Her Gun Feeling Safer vs Being Safer...3:47 PM in Conservatism, Guns | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 12, 2010
Snow through a child's eyes
Still snowed in. Two miles to the closest plowed road. Day Eight of DC Snow Apocalypse 2010. I think my kids just did a little too much praying for snow. An excerpt from Lord, Please Meet Me in the Laundry Room: Coming from California in 2002, my children had their...7:03 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (2)
Elisabeth Elliot on tenderness
Love this. Tenderness There isn't a man or woman anywhere, I am convinced, who does not long for tenderness. When I was in college, a girl who lived on my floor in the dormitory was pursued by a number of ardent young men on the campus. When the floor phone...5:07 PM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's reality gap
The president's reality problem By RICH LOWRY Posted: 12:34 AM, February 12, 2010 It might have been the most revelatory moment of the Obama presidency. In an interview with Time magazine, a chastened President Obama talked of his sputtering Middle East peace initiative. "This is just really hard," he...12:46 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
US Navy Presidential Ceremonial Honor Guard Drill Team
This clip - from a 2006 competition in Norway - has gotten nearly 8 million views You can see the full and uncut video here....9:17 AM in Entertainment, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
Children and Lent: Family resources to make it real
Lent is a season neglected by many evangelicals. But you don't have to be a member of a liturgical church to enrich your family's spiritual life through observing the 40 day preparation for Easter. See 10 Lenten Traditions to Enrich Your Family's Easter Celebration, which I wrote in 1997 -...8:01 AM in Lent | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 11, 2010
Catholic Conservative Women of Loudoun
This group has been such a source of encouragement and strength to me. We keep in touch through a very active yahoo group where we swap news and views in between loads of laundry and/or jobs: We are women of all ages who + are practicing Roman Catholics, +...9:09 PM in Catholicism, Conservatism, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
Snowed in and how: 2 miles to a cleared road
We are snowed in worse than we ever imagined. We are two miles from a cleared road. VDOT sent a plow today, but the plow couldn't do the job because the wind had created 8-10 foot drifts on Foggy Bottom Road. Here is a map: View Larger Map We...8:43 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
World Vision in Haiti
Please don't forget to continue giving to relief efforts in Haiti. World Vision is a turstworthy organization which has had a strong presence in Haiti for over 30 years. They focus on maternal and child health. They already have 400 workers there and a solid infrastructure. Here is a...5:29 PM in Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (0)
Patty Schuchman - Loudoun photo contest
Patty Schuchman has taken some amazing photos of my kids - including Matt, Jonny and Maddy - as well as my photo here.So I am happy to spread the word about her:Patty Schuchman Photography is looking for high school juniors and seniors for my "Fresh Faces" contest - at least...4:29 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
Abortion myth: sparing the mother's life?
To Spare the Mother's Life: A Myth of Abortion "Protection of the life of the mother as an excuse for an abortion is a smoke screen. In my 36 years of pediatric surgery, I have never known of one instance where the child had to be aborted to save...4:23 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Mother Teresa quotes - Part 2
The wisdom of Mother Teresa When you look at the crucifix, you understand how much Jesus loved you then. When you look at the Sacred Host, you understand how much Jesus loves you now. We are at Jesus' disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if...4:08 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
Palin's pitch-perfect populism at Tea Party Convention
From this morning's Washington Post, a surprisingly positive appraisal: Sarah Palin displays her pitch-perfect populism By David S. Broder Thursday, February 11, 2010 The snows that obliterated Washington in the past week interfered with many scheduled meetings, but they did not prevent the delivery of one important political message: Take...4:02 PM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)
The deer at our door
This weather must be hard on the deer who cohabit Bluemont with us humans. They are reduced to nibbling at the evergreens, which seem to be a last resort when the snow is covering their more preferred vegetation. Tripp helped me get this photo by opening the front door...2:52 PM in Family, My life | Permalink | Comments (1)
USCCB scandal - more info and resources
Some very trustworthy Catholic notables are coming to the defense of John Carr and the USCCB. This is a distraction, as the issue is not about a particular person, but long-festering problems within the USCCB. The laity still needs to become more educated about the limits to this group's authority...1:50 PM in Catholicism, Church Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)
Obama & Co: no privacy rights for cellphones
Remember the days when liberals attacked the Patriot Act for invading terrorists' privacy? Now that O & Co have gone all Animal Farm on us (everyone should read Orwell's parable - we did a book study last year), Americans are apparently not entitled to privacy of communication - just...12:03 PM in Animal Farm book study, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (1)
Elisabeth Elliot: No love without grief
No Love Without Grief Tell us, fool, who knows more of love--the one who has joys from it or the one who has trials and griefs? He answered: There cannot be any knowledge of love without both of them. (Ramon Lull, The Book of the Lover and the Beloved)...11:07 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Tired of liberalism . .
From my Inbox this morning - written a year ago by Robert A. Hall: I'm tired I'll be 63 soon. Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce, and a six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've worked, hard, since I was...10:24 AM in Conservatism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 10, 2010
Minnesotans for Global Warming - Frozen Wasteland
I really don't want to say anything negative about snow. We've had too many barely-a-snowflake winters here. And the weekend snow was absolutely gorgeous. But we got another foot last night and this one isn't so lovely because we've had this fierce wind blowing all day. I don't know...7:54 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (6)
February 9, 2010
American Idol - Maddy Curtis cut in Hollywood
Well now you dear friends know what we were not allowed to reveal for the last month: Maddy did not make it through the Hollywood rounds. See 3:45: In fact, what was ironic was that she was being cut at precisely the time the Boston auditions were airing on...9:28 PM in Family, Maddy | Permalink | Comments (69)
Turbo Tax - efile - works for me!
Since losing our house and downsizing - maybe not by choice but today a cause to rejoice! - our lives have gotten so much simpler. I have not done our taxes since Tripp and I were first married - 27 years ago. Owning businesses, buying and selling houses -...5:59 PM in Product Reviews | Permalink | Comments (5)
In Christ Alone
Inspirational music for today: Overheard at (D)rivvel supp I'd love to hear Maddy sing this - you can bet I'll be working on it :)...2:19 PM in Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (6)
Reader turns blogger: Mama of 9
From Becca: Just thought I'd let you know that you've inspired me and now i've starting blogging. I have your widget on there as well :o) Mama of 9 Thanks for being such a blessing! Becca is a homeschooling mom of nine, including a cute little guy with Down...2:05 PM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (4)
The ant and the grasshopper - old and new
Making the email rounds: THE ANT AND THE GRASSHOPPER OLD VERSION The ant works hard in the withering heat all summer long, building his house and laying up supplies for the winter. The grasshopper thinks the ant is a fool and laughs and dances and plays the summer away.. Come winter, the ant is warm and well fed. The grasshopper has...1:53 PM in Humor, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (0)
American Baby cover photo contest
Enter at American Baby - leave a comment/send me the photo if you do!...1:03 PM in Babies, Contest | Permalink | Comments (2)
Loudoun 26th Citizen's Police Academy
I really would love to do this someday. Too busy now - but want to pass it on to you all: Loudoun County, VA- Loudoun Sheriff Steve Simpson announced today the formation of the 26th Citizen's Police Academy, which will commence on Tuesday, March 10, 2010. The free sessions...12:46 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
Update: Dominican Sisters on Oprah 2/9
Update courtesy Elizabeth Foss: At First Things, The Anchoress digs a little deeper to reveal that Oprah is juxtaposing the Sisters with "the World's Only Western Geisha" and an emphasis on sex. Instead of an honest respectful look, it sounds like this will be treated as a freak show. ...10:17 AM in Catholicism, Entertainment | Permalink | Comments (1)
DC Snow Apocalypse - gearing up for second blast
Among the back roads of Northern Virginia, we've just sorta dug our way out of Snow Apocalypse - Tripp and the Big Boyz made it to Costco last night and they took off early this morning to put Matt on a bus for New York, where he will be...9:50 AM in Loudoun County, My life | Permalink | Comments (0)
Blood Money - Planned Parenthood abortion industry
As seen from people who were insiders: With the insider knowledge of the abortion industry, this should be a powerful film. If you are in a position to support it, please consider doing so. Note Norma McCorvey in the clip above - the original Roe in Roe v. Wade, who...9:35 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
The Obamas need to catch a clue
Michelle: He's Not Done Yet. Heaven help us! If only he would just sit still for a few weeks and leave us alone. He still hasn't figured out that the more he injects himself into our daily lives, the less we like him: The Marist Poll: Only 44% approve...9:12 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 8, 2010
Return of the Prodigal Son - Younger Son
In The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming, Henri Nouwen fleshes out Jesus's familiar parable through meditations on Rembrandt's work now housed in the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Russia and which Nouwen was serendipitously allowed to view for hours in person at a critical junction in...5:40 PM in Return of the Prodigal Son | Permalink | Comments (6)
Oprah 2/9: Dominican Sisters of Mary to appear
Update courtesy Elizabeth Foss: At First Things, The Anchoress digs a little deeper to reveal that Oprah is juxtaposing the Sisters with "the World's Only Western Geisha" and an emphasis on sex. Instead of an honest respectful look, it sounds like this will be treated as a freak show. ...5:34 PM in Catholicism, Entertainment, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Georgia's Smile - Phil Davidson sings about daughter with Down syndrome
5:16 PM in Down syndrome, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
Diva for a Day: Vote for Pam!
Pam Schoppert is the amazing woman who emailed me several days before Maddy Sings for Haiti and asked if there was anything she could do to help. Ann Stewart and I had just been wondering how we were going to handle concessions for the show, and so I emailed...2:53 PM in Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (1)
Loudoun County Schools closed through 2/12
ALL LOUDOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CLOSED THROUGH FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12th A message about school closing from the superintendent: All Loudoun County Public Schools will continue to be closed for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, February 10-12, 2010. This closure includes school activities, practices, and other uses of school buildings. The decision...2:36 PM in Loudoun County, Public schools, Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (0)
Beautiful love story: a baby with Down syndrome
Thanks to Brenda, Marian, Jennifer and Margaret - and anyone else whose emails I haven't gotten to - for pointing us to this wonderful story: a mom tuned into aesthetic beauty gives birth to her second daughter and sees immediately that she has Down syndrome. She shares her feelings...2:01 PM in Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (8)
Snow Apocalypse 2010 - Day 4 chez Curtis
Okay. I take back everything I said about stocking up on food. After four days of everyone home - yes we have plenty of stuff in the pantry, but this family of salad lovers has run out of salad stuff. Wah! I've given up on containing the snow gear...1:17 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (3)
Super Bowl: Audi Green Police ad
12:55 PM in Humor, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (0)
America Rising: a message to Democrats
Several readers have sent me this video, which in the past month has had over a million views:...12:44 PM in Conservatism, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Dragnet's Jack Webb: Wake up, Obama!
11:04 AM in Humor, Inspiration, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Boy Scouts of America: building character one boy at a time
In honor of today's 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...9:58 AM in Boys, Conservative resources, Family | Permalink | Comments (0)
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...9:40 AM in Boys, Conservative resources | Permalink | Comments (0)
100 years of Boy Scouts!
February 8 The Boys Scouts of America was incorporated FEBRUARY 8, 1910. Sir Robert Baden-Powell began the movement in England two years prior. A hero of the South African Boer Wars, Sir Baden-Powell's troops were besieged 200 days by an overwhelming army, but his resourcefulness saved his men. The...9:23 AM in Boys, Conservative resources | Permalink | Comments (2)
February 7, 2010
Loudoun Performing Arts - new website
Welcome toLOUDOUN PERFORMING ARTS.com Connecting Patrons, Producers and Performers within Loudoun County, Virginia Meredith McMath put this site together. If you live in Loudoun and are part of the theater scene - or have children who are - you might want to bookmark the page and/or subscribe...9:18 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
1/31 Maddy Curtis Sings for Haiti/American Idol round-up
Okay, so I am a proud mama. But since I don't do scrapbooks, my blog has to be the place where I capture everything for posterity. So here is my round-up on Maddy Sings for Haiti - last weeks' benefit which raised nearly 9000. for World vision and hopefully will...2:29 PM in Family, Haiti, Loudoun County, Maddy | Permalink | Comments (2)
Global warming buried under record snow: RIP
You know, the Global Warming hoax turned the scientific method on its head: instead of open minds testing hypotheses, this political/controlling/quasi-religious movement has now been shown to have ignored pertinent data and used corrupt statistics to back a profitable enterprise.Sadly, it has already made its way into public school text...1:18 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (2)
Tim Tebow - Story & 2007 Heisman Trophy Speech
As Shakespeare's Henry V says in the incomparable St. Crispin's Day speech: This story shall a good man teach his son. Tim...1:13 PM in Boys, Inspiration, Tebow | Permalink | Comments (0)
Dad talks about Tim Tebow's birth
Hope you all are sharing the story of Tim Tebow - a committed Christian who raised reporters' eyebrows when he said he was saving himself for marriage - and whose mother's story of choosing life will be aired in a Super Bowl commercial paid for by Focus on the Family.What...1:06 PM in Good news, Pro-Life Issues, Tebow | Permalink | Comments (1)
Loudoun - post-snow safety advice
Loudoun County public safety officials are emphasizing three of the most important things that people can do in the wake of the record-setting snowstorm. 1) Clear the area around the fire hydrants and dry hydrants in your neighborhood. Clearing the snow from around the hydrants will enable fire and rescue...1:04 PM in Loudoun County, Safety | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun County Public Schools closed 2/8 and 2/9
And brace yourselves - Snow expected Tuesday - 80% Sounds like we'll be Walkin' in a Winter Wonderland for a l-o-n-g time!...11:31 AM in Family, Good news, Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (1)
Style your garage - garage door art
Charlene sent me these images of garage door covers - just a sample from a German company called Style Your Garage: See more at Style Your Garage. Can you imagine the effect on an american HOA????...10:50 AM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 6, 2010
Snow Apocalypse 2010 - meets the Curtis Family
First, my deepest and most profound apologies for poking fun at Washingtonians who panicked and bought up all the milk, eggs and toilet paper in advance of our 2010 Snow Apocalypse. I only wish I had bought nor myself as I have no idea how soon we can possibly...7:39 PM in | Permalink | Comments (13)
February 5, 2010
Obama and the "corpse man"
Hearken back to the days when they skewered Bush daily for being so stupid. Here is a Harvard graduate who doesn't know how to pronounce the word "corpsman" - and zigzagging between his two teleprompters, refers not once, but twice to the patriot he's using to burnish his own image...8:51 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama: breast cancer victim to be buried in Obama t-shirt
So completely weird:...8:42 PM in | Permalink | Comments (3)
Inspiration for today
"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle."' --Albert Einstein Spotted at My Faerie Window - whose ability to see everything as a miracle is evident from her creativity....7:34 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
USCCB scandal - exposing the evil within the Bishops' Conference
RealCatholic TV is doing great investigation and analysis of the USCCB - the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. It's time for the bishops to step up and put an end to their involvement with contra-Catholic groups (like the Center for Community Change and Campaign for Human Development) which...10:03 AM in Catholicism, Church Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Krauthammer: The Great Peasant Revolt of 2010
Charles Krauthammer is a brilliant conservative essayist: The Great Peasant Revolt of 2010 Charles Krauthammer WASHINGTON -- "I am not an ideologue," protested President Obama at a gathering with Republican House members last week. Perhaps, but he does have a tenacious commitment to a set of political convictions. Compare his...9:43 AM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Sleds - free shipping and fast too!
I noticed someone bought a sled through my Amazon link yesterday and in light of the continuing snow - three snow days last week in Loudoun County, and more snow and ice expected this week! - your professional shopper did a little research at Amazon to see what's available...9:28 AM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (0)
Toddler sleds, baby sleds
I noticed someone bought a sled through my Amazon link yesterday and in light of the coming Mother of All Snows, your professional shopper did a little research at Amazon to see what's available quickly. These sleds for the younger set are all available from Amazon with free shipping. If...9:07 AM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (0)
February 4, 2010
Snow Apocalypse - DC/Northern Virginia 2010
The sky is falling here in northern Virginia - or at least it will begin falling tomorrow. They are predicting 24" Everywhere there is a feeling of panic. Tripp was in Costco tonight for the Curtis disaster preparedness effort - milk, eggs, fruits and vegetables - and he said...10:27 PM in Family, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (16)
Rahm Emmanuel, the R-word and teachable moments
What About the R-Word? Does It Matter? Barbara Curtis Crosswalk.com Contributor Talk about teachable moments. No matter what our political persuasion, to think of a grown-up White House staffer referring to his fellow travelers as "F***ing retarded" should hit a nerve. And if it doesn't, or if it's only...9:35 PM in Down syndrome, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama Prayer Breakfast - political theater
Number of times Obama has gone to church since January 20, 2009: 4 He say he doesn't want to disrupt services with all the Secret Service detail, etc - and yet seems to be okay with costly (to taxpayers) lunch jaunts across the Potomac to chow down on burgers in...8:37 PM in Church Issues, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Valentine's Day - hype and reality
Worth a rerun - from 2008: I overheard on the radio this morning that when it comes to going out for dinner for Valentine's Day, 2 out of 3 men love the idea, but only 1 out of 3 women do. As your faithful reporter, I tried to track down...9:02 AM in Valentine's Day | Permalink | Comments (3)
North Carolina to eliminate US History prior to Hayes
This is how totalitarian regimes boost their brainwashing power: First you strip away a people's heroes and histories - and religion - replacing them with what you want them to believe. In this case, globalism and environmental studies: North Carolina Schools May Cut Chunk Out of U.S. History Lessons Wednesday,...6:46 AM in Activism, Propaganda, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (5)
February 3, 2010
Maddy Sings for Haiti clip to benefit World Vision
You all heard a lot leading up to Maddy's benefit for Haiti last Sunday night. Here is a little clip we put up on YouTube to encourage continued giving to World Vision: On January 31, 2010, Loudoun County's Maddy Curtis sold out two houses at Franklin Performing Arts Center in...11:46 PM in Haiti, Maddy, Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (2)
Sarah Palin: Bigot Rahm Emanuel must go!!
Once again, as when Al Gore referred to his opponents as "the extra chromosome crowd" and Our Glorious Leader Obama insulted Special Olympics athletes, another liberal shows his true colors. Once again the party that pretends compassion for "the little guy" while living high on the hog, shows the reality...11:06 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (6)
American Idol Hollywood week 2/3. 2/9, 2/10
Like I said, I've been kinda disappointed in American Idol so far - especially looking at it through the eyes of friends who might be watching it for the first time because of Maddy's involvement. There's just been too much focus on the attention-seeking loonies - and apparently we...7:30 PM in Entertainment, Maddy, Music | Permalink | Comments (4)
10 Good reasons to have another child
It's been a year since I last published this - and several moms who were at my talk yesterday at St. Catherine of Siena's wanted to see this. I've published it as part of a series I once did called Guerrilla Parenting. Scroll down for links to the rest...6:47 PM in Big families, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
Too much detergent? And all you ever wanted to know about laundry
I can remember in 1970 reading some great advice in Consumer Reports: that American soap manufacturers recommended much higher amounts of detergent than were really necessary - or effective - for cleaning clothes. A crusader even back then, I posted a big sign in our complex's laundry center (Parkfairfax...6:17 PM in Humor, Inspiration, Practical Info, Saving money | Permalink | Comments (5)
Leesburg First Friday - look for Maddy!
These First Fridays in Leesburg sound really fun. Maddy has appeared there before with Jake and the Burtones, and will be there for this one - if the rumored apocalyptic snow (20-30"?) we're expecting holds off until Saturday.Maddy will be singing first at 6:00 on the Leesburg Courthouse steps for...5:30 PM in Entertainment, Loudoun County, Maddy | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Return of the Prodigal - revised schedule
The next book study planned at MommyLife is the Return of the Prodigal Son, which was scheduled to begin February 1. I am sorry that I did not have this posted on time. The dog ate my homework. Maddy's benefit concert for Haiti took 8 days of planning, and...8:02 AM in Books | Permalink | Comments (8)
February 2, 2010
Montessori at home: building a work ethic in kids
Another rerun from 2/14/07. Sometimes we can get complacent - I am constantly humbled by own need to maintain vigilance in calling myself to a higher standard, especially knowing how much the future of my kids with disabilities depends on it. Let's all consider today - myself included - what...7:29 AM in Homeschooling, Montessori, Mothering, Preschoolers, Teens and Tweens, Toddlers | Permalink | Comments (4)
Motivational thought for today
I don't know who said this originally, but I heard it from Michael Reagan, son of Ronald Reagan: There are three kinds of people in the world: Those who make things happen, Those who watch what happens, And those who say, "What happened?"...7:24 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
February 1, 2010
New York Times: yes to Tebow Super Bowl ad! No to NOW!
From the New York Times, a surprisingly balanced response: Super Bowl Censorship Published: January 30, 2010 The commercials during the Super Bowl, a showcase for the best (or worst) in TV advertising, often generate buzz and sometimes outrage. This year, viewers will see one ad that has already triggered a...7:13 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Pro-Life Issues, Tebow | Permalink | Comments (1)
Tebow Super Bowl ad isn't intolerant - critics are
Tebow's Super Bowl ad isn't intolerant; its critics are By Sally Jenkins Washington Post Staff Writer Tuesday, February 2, 2010 I'll spit this out quick, before the armies of feminism try to gag me and strap electrodes to my forehead: Tim Tebow is one of the better things to...6:07 PM in Christian Persecution, Liberal Hypocrisy, Pro-Life Issues, Tebow | Permalink | Comments (9)
Maddy Sings for Haiti and WorldVision -
Maddy raised 8000. for World Vision's Haitian relief efforts last night. The wonderful thing about World Vision is that they already have infrastructure within Haiti - with 400 workers focused especially on women and children. As Carolym Kruger said last night, with 150,000 dead and millions now homeless - and...5:47 PM in Haiti, Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (3)
Autistic artist Stephen Wiltshire's amazing work
You can read more about this amazing artist and see his other work at StephenWiltshire.com...3:34 PM in Art, Autism | Permalink | Comments (2)
Montessori at home: kid-friendly art
Because there are always new readers at MommyLife, from time to time I rerun something I hope will help you in creating a rich family environment. I am greatly indebted to my education as a Montessori teacher and 40 years of raising children - and now this opportunity to...2:35 PM in Art, Culture, Montessori, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (1)
Democrat Fat Cat senators Ritz Carlton "retreat"
Dem. senators spent weekend with bank, energy, tobacco lobbyistsBy Ben SmithTwelve Democratic Senators spent last weekend in Miami Beach raising money from top lobbyists for oil, drug, and other corporate interests that they often decry, according to a guest list for the event obtained by POLITICO.The guest list for the...2:34 PM in Government Corruption, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings: I'll Fly Away
For your listening pleasure :) Incredible guitar by David Rawlings - and don't you love the way Gillian begins as though she's persuading her guitar like a reluctant child?...2:20 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Adoptive parents show racial, gender bias
From Jawan: January 25, 2010, 4:26 pm Black Babies, Boys Less Likely to Be AdoptedBy CATHERINE RAMPELL Both straight and gay adoptive parents are likely to exhibit racial and sex-based biases when applying to adopt a child, a new study finds. In the research, four economists analyzed detailed data from...1:24 PM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (9)
Obama bows to Tampa mayor
Oh, the inscrutable ways of Our Glorious Leader! U.S. President Barack Obama bows to Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio at MacDill Air Force Base on Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010 in Tampa, Florida: I guess because she's Asian????...1:14 PM in Humor, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (5)
Obama recruiting radicals in high schools
This is so alarming!!Do you know what your kids are being fed in their government schools? Parents beware and make sure you are having MANY conversations about brainwashing techniques, propaganda and resisting government control: Obama Recruiting Radicals in High Schools by Pamela Geller Barack Obama is using our public school system...12:38 PM in Obama Nation, Oppression, Propaganda, Public schools, Resistance, Rules for Radicals | Permalink | Comments (0)
MommyLife meets the Rebelution
A highlight at tonight's Maddy Sings for Haiti: meeting The Rebelution brothers - Alex and Brett Harris, whose progress Tripp and I have charted for - well ever since they were tiny tots and their dad was speaking at homeschool events in California. Their ministry - The Rebelution -...12:37 AM in Church Issues | Permalink | Comments (32)
Maddy Sings for Haiti - thank you for your contributions!
Okay, I will admit I am one proud mama. Seeing your daughter's audition for American Idol and a bit of her back story on national TV is one thing, but to see what Maddy did tonight is so much more. Maddy Sings for Haiti at Franklin Park was canceled...12:01 AM in Haiti | Permalink | Comments (1)
