December 2010
December 31, 2010
Lib pudit Ezra Klein: Constitution "confusing" - outdated
This is just sad: Liberal Star Blogger Ezra Klein: Constitution 'Has No Binding Power on Anything'; Confusing Because it's Over 100 Years Old...8:04 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (0)
Tony Melendez - no arms, extra heart
Tony Melendez, English subtitles HT: Charlene...6:15 PM in Disabilities, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
Popes, atheists and freedom
An interesting article: Why atheists should support Christian world intervention: Popes, Atheists and Freedom Secularists should recognize that the pope's fight is their fight. By DANIEL HENNINGER This being the season of hope, Islamic extremists of course have been engaged in their annual tradition of blowing up Christian churches. An...6:07 PM in Catholicism, Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Overpopulation and poverty - debunking the myth
Poverty: Where We All Started Problem: Most people think that the world is overpopulated. The problem is: it isn't, and the science behind that idea is outdated and false. Sound science has long ago debunked this idea, showing that the human race is in no danger of overpopulating the...5:51 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Maddy tomorrow 7pm at Franklin Park!
[News Flash: Leesburg Today said show time is 8, but it's 7. Reserved seating, so you might want to order your tickets online - otherwise be there tomorrow at 6:30 if not sold out.] Want to hear more of Maddy? Here's your chance - January 1 at Franklin Park Performing...1:15 PM in Maddy | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 30, 2010
Baby sign language - free flash cards, resources
BabySignLanguage.com is a great resource for moms who want to add sign language to their child's communication repertoire. Teaching your baby to sign will give him or her the ability to communicate their needs, eliminating significant frustration during the pre-verbal months. It's also a great way to begin the journey...8:20 PM in Babies | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 28, 2010
Mom finds Sleeping Beauty
Mila's Daydreams I originally published many still photos, but learned (thanks to Joy) the mom who has created these masterpieces is trying to protect her work to be published as a book. She posted that individual bloggers may print 1-4, so here are four I love: http://milasdaydreams.blogspot.com/HT: Tina...2:17 PM in Art | Permalink | Comments (6)
December 27, 2010
Pilot father shares discipline technique
Most people nowadays think it improper to discipline children, so I have tried other methods to control my kids when they have had one of 'those moments.' Since I'm a pilot, one that I have found very effective is for me to just take the child for a flight...7:54 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)
Jewish Sam Miller: Be proud to be Catholic!
Jewish Sam Miller on Catholics Excerpts of an article written by Sam Miller, prominent Cleveland Jewish businessman-- who is NOT a Catholic. Why would newspapers carry on a vendetta on one of the most important institutions that we have today in the United States , namely the Catholic Church?...7:28 PM in Catholicism, Media Bias | Permalink | Comments (2)
The story of Jonah - little girl, big drama
Watch it all: The story of Jonah from Corinth Baptist Church on Vimeo. The story of Jonah HT: Invisi-gal...6:52 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Free kids' music link
Hi Barbara. I have a favorite website for free kids music and wanted to make sure you know about it. He is the link: FreeKidsMusic.com It even has sheet music to play the guitar with each song. My kids love it. Other links: Music and early childhood: expand their...6:28 PM in Montessori, Music, Preschoolers | Permalink | Comments (0)
Virginia Rally for Life January 13, 2011
Virginia Rally for Life January 13, 2011 Rally 10:30 - 11:30 am (assemble at 10:00 am) Lobbying 11:30 am - as time permits Why: To witness to the sanctity of life, to urge Governor McDonnell to initiate regulations for first trimester abortion facilities, and to support pro-life legislation. When: Thursday,...6:14 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
House Speaker John Boehner a REAL CATHOLIC!
This was published right after the election, but got lost in my email backlog (from Wendy W - thanks, Wendy!). It is an amazing shift from a Catholic in Name Only Speaker to a man who has lived his faith. In case you haven't yet gotten to know who...4:41 PM in 2010 elections, Catholicism, Good news, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Wear your seatbelt
The most beautiful seatbelt advocacy commercial ever. HT: Charlene...4:35 PM in Safety | Permalink | Comments (0)
Continuing saga - The Money Pit
Funny scene from the Money Pit Our spirits are still high despite the growing entanglement of problems in our house. It may be because after 20 years of owning homes and dealing with problems, at least these aren't ours to deal with. Yes, I have to deal with unflushed...9:19 AM in Family, Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)
December 26, 2010
Good King Wenceslas - a family tradition
Good King Wenceslas - DC Comics + Bing Crosby/Rosemary Clooney It's late, but like everything else in our house this weekend, our internet has been unreliable. Here is the column I wrote for our parish bulletin for today: The Day after Christmas - More to Celebrate! Each year, Tripp...10:15 PM in Family, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
A different kind of Curtis Christmas
So there were several things that set this Christmas apart. One was my being out of commission for a couple weeks before. There was the amazing tree Tripp found like the ones we used to have in California - a Douglas fir 12" tall which he cut down with...4:37 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (7)
My favorite: red clogs
Even though we've been in Virginia for eight years, when it comes to dressing for winter after 30 years in California I still feel not quite in synch. So this year I decided no matter what, I was going to get a good pair of winter shoes - not...2:58 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (3)
Catching up - and augmented communication
Hoping you all had a merry Christmas! This month has flown by for me - one issue after another. I had a tooth pulled and it took a whole week for me to recover. Then I got a cold which morphed into a case of sinusitis so bad I thought...1:40 PM in Down syndrome, Family, Inclusion, My life, Special education | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 25, 2010
Judy Garland: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
JUDY GARLAND: 'MEET ME IN ST LOUIS'. 'HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS'...5:08 PM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
Ronald Reagan Christmas address 1981
Ronald Reagan Christmas address (12/23/81)...12:25 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 24, 2010
Constitution to open 2011 Congress
On November 2, the people spoke. Many of us are hoping this will be a different kind of Congress - less selfish, arrogant and out of touch. It will be several more elections cycles before we can get rid of the deadwood, but we have certainly started to turn...12:07 PM in 2010 elections, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun: Maddy Curtis - 1/1/11 New Year's Day Show!
Want to hear more of Maddy? Here's your chance - January 1 at Franklin Park Performing Arts Center in Purcellville. For anyone who hasn't been there, this is a wonderful venue - a barn converted into a theater. Seating is limited, so reserve your tickets now! Maddy Curtis: You...10:07 AM in Maddy | Permalink | Comments (0)
Top Baby Names of 2010
Top Baby Names of 2010 (and What's Ahead in 2011) by the Circle of Moms Editors What's in a name? As it turns out, quite a lot. From sitcom characters to great uncles to whiskey brands (yes, we're looking at you, Pink), an incredibly diverse set of references inspire us...7:26 AM in Babies | Permalink | Comments (1)
THE DIGITAL STORY OF THE NATIVITY
Nearly 6 million people have viewed this in the past 10 days: THE DIGITAL STORY OF THE NATIVITY HT: Tripp...7:23 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 23, 2010
Boston school asks permission for Pledge of Allegiance
Shocking. Aschool that has not said the Pledge of Allegiance for seven years is now going to say it once a week - if approved by parent: School sends home permission slips for Pledge of Allegiance Updated: Thursday, 23 Dec 2010, 10:32 AM EST Published : Wednesday, 22 Dec 2010,...10:14 AM in Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 22, 2010
Obama: Obama to focus on economy - again
Drudge reports: TODAY: Obama pledges 'singular focus' on economy... ONE YEAR AGO: 'Obama to focus hard on economy'... TWO YEARS AGO: Obama to put 'renewed focus' on economy......6:31 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Michelle's separate travel costs taxpayers $63,000 more - at least
Mrs. Obama's Separate Hawaii Travel Likely Costs at Least $63,000 by Keith Koffler on December 22, 2010 The decision by First Lady Michelle Obama to leave on schedule for her two-week Hawaii vacation and not wait a few days for her delayed husband will probably cost taxpayers more than...6:21 PM in Michelle Obama | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 21, 2010
Silent Monks Sing Hallelujah Chorus
Silent Monks Singing Halleluijah Chorus HT: Jawan...5:51 PM in Christmas, Humor, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
MommyLife: six fabulous giveaways
Hey y'all! Don't forget to check out the giveaways! You never know when something new will pop up - There are six going on right now - and more to come! Click on the Reviews&Giveaways in the far right sidebar, then leave comments for any giveaways you want to...5:23 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Anger at Down syndrome homecoming pick?
Regarding Down syndrome: Homecoming Queen in Florida, "eek" commented: I would have been highly pissed if someone ruined my homecoming by making a politically correct statement such as this. I replied: Well, eek, I guess you can count yourself in the minority because it's been happening for years all over...4:18 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (8)
Planned Parenthood gift certificates
How Does a Planned Parenthood Gift Card Say Merry Christmas?By Dr. Charmaine YoestIt's crunch time for the procrastinators amongst us. Shopping for the holidays, which can be a real art form in America, starts to resemble a NASCAR race with the finish line approaching. But if tacky is what you're...2:29 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Manassas VA school punishes Christmas "cheer"
Yet another ridiculous Christmas situation: a high school principal who hands out detention slips and lecturing celebrating students that suicides are up and not everyone wants Christmas cheer: See story: Christmas Sweater Club Punished At Local High School...12:00 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Mommy Matters - free subscription
December 2010Rejoicing AlwaysMommy MattersThis is the header of my December newsletter - which has some great Christmas resources, encouragement and inspiration.You can receive Mommy Matters each month in your mailbox for free. Simply go to the box in my far right sidebar and subscribe. You can also access the...8:22 AM in Mothering | Permalink | Comments (0)
Barney Frank: Death tax okay, inheritors didn't earn money
Barney Frank: Death Tax Not Punishment; Heirs Didn't Do Anything to Deserve Inheritance Note that as a homosexual, Barney has no natural inheritors. And that as a career politician, he has been salaried and not worked hard to build more wealth himself. For contrast, see Star Parker's analysis of...8:09 AM in Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (4)
Death Tax: injustice to hardworking families
Star Parker - once a welfare mother - is founder and president of CURE, the Center for Urban Renewal and Education, a 501c3 think tank which explores and promotes market based public policy to fight poverty, as well as author of the newly revised Uncle Sam's Plantation: How Big...6:29 AM in Death and dying, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 20, 2010
Pedophilia author arrested
Fla. officials arrest author of pedophilia guideFla. sheriff files obscenity charge against Colo. author who sold guide for pedophiles online Tamara Lush, Associated Press Monday December 20, 2010, ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) -- Florida officials filed an obscenity charge Monday against the author of a self-published how-to...1:34 PM in Good news | Permalink | Comments (4)
NPR's Totenburg sorry for saying "Christmas"
NPR's Nina Totenberg Apologizes For Saying "Christmas"...1:26 PM in Christmas, Culture Wars | Permalink | Comments (6)
Sting: I Saw Three Ships
Joining four things I love: Sting's voice, Celtic feeling, and this off-the-beaten-track Christmas carol: Sting: I Saw Three Ships...12:13 PM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
UN climate change prays to Mayan goddess
Divine aid for climate changeby Chuck Colson December 20, 2010 (BreakPoint.org) - Who says that we live in a secular age? I'll have you know that a recent U.N. climate change conference began with a prayer that the delegates would receive divine inspiration as they went about saving the planet....11:22 AM in "Climate Change" | Permalink | Comments (1)
Cardinal Burke slams "Catholic in name only" colleges
Cardinal Burke Addresses Catholic Higher EducationSays Jesus Is the First TeacherMERRIMACK, New Hampshire, DEC. 15, 2010 (Zenit.org).- Cardinal Raymond Burke is underlining the importance of Catholic higher education, and the need for these institutions to keep their identity strong.The prefect of the Supreme Tribunal of the Apostolic Signatura gave an...11:01 AM in Catholicism, Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Lunar eclipse/winter solstice 12/21/10
Clouds may obscure view of Monday night's lunar eclipse A total eclipse of the moon Monday night will coincide with winter solstice, which means the moon will appear high in the sky and be visible throughout all of North and Central America, including Seattle -- weather permitting. Starting around...10:18 AM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (1)
Animals sing Christmas Carols
Your kids will love these: Animals of YouTube sing "Deck the Halls" Animals of YouTube sing "Jingle Bells" HT: "A Mac and a Mug o' Joe"....9:55 AM in Christmas, Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 19, 2010
Census spells 2012 trouble for Obama
Now here's some good news: New population count may complicate Obama 2012 bid Dec 19, 2010 By CHARLES BABINGTON WASHINGTON (AP) - The 2010 census report coming out Tuesday will include a boatload of good political news for Republicans and grim data for Democrats hoping to re-elect President Barack Obama...8:38 PM in 2012 elections, Good news | Permalink | Comments (0)
Like incense? Imagine this . . .
Found this at DaddyRoBlog. He called it Taking Incense to a whole new level :) Botafumeiro Be sure to watch to see how incredible the final arc is - and at 3:53 when a man brings it to a stop, spinning a little himself. Tidbits from Wikipedia: The Botafumeiro is...5:18 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (1)
Ashoura - bloody Muslim rite
From the Washington Times, which ran one picture of bloodied men on the front page, and the story on Page A8 with others more gruesome. The online version omits all but a picture of a toddler swinging a bladed chain with a smile on his face and no blood yet....12:42 PM in Islam issues, Multiculturalism | Permalink | Comments (1)
12 days of Christmas - origins and meaning
Make sure The Twelve Days of Christmas is part of your family's Christmas traditions - children love its repetition and musically it is several cuts above a lot of children's Christmas music. Words and music here. Also, since many say The Twelve Days of Christmas is symbolic of our...11:55 AM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
Advent: Of the Father's Love Begotten
A beautiful, often-overlooked Advent hymn. Of the Father's Love Begotten I wish they had sung more verses. Here they are: Of The Father"s Love Begotten Of the Father's love begotten, ere the worlds began to be He is alpha and omega, He the source, the ending He Of the things...10:02 AM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (3)
Secret Santa drops $5500 in Salvation Army kettle
Inspirational - reading this made a difference for me. When I saw a girl singing while ringing the bell outside the Purcellville Bloom last night, I puled out the biggest bill in my wallet instead of the smallest. Not bragging, just regretting all the times I haven't done it that...9:41 AM in Christmas, Good news, Opportunities to give | Permalink | Comments (0)
Make-ahead Christmas breakfast casserole
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...9:23 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama rescinding conscience rights on abortion
Obama Admin Working to Rescind Conscience Rights on Abortionby Steven Ertelt | Washington, DC |12/14/10 2:01 PMThe Obama administration is still working to overturn conscience rights for medical professionals on abortion that were put in place at the tail end of the Bush administration.In 2008, the Bush administration issued...9:06 AM in Obama Nation, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 18, 2010
You should take voice lessons - opera humor
This is for a select audience. With an opera singer son and two daughters studying I laughed out loud: You should take voice lessons HT: Chad...9:00 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)
Selective Reduction: aborting one twin
Heartbreaking. When Is Twins Too Many? Tom Blackwell, National Post Friday, Dec. 10, 2010 Like so many other couples these days, the Toronto-area business executive and her husband put off having children for years as they built successful careers. Both parents were in their 40s -- and their first son...7:37 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (23)
December 17, 2010
Send a card to our military
Click banner above to go to Let's Say Thanks and send a card to the troops! Thanks to Xerox for making it easy....5:03 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
CatholicVote: Top 10 Reasons for Hope 2010
CatholicVote notes: Our true hope, of course, is in Christ alone. But we live in a world of events, people, and stories that manifest this hope. Learn more about our list at www.CatholicVote.org/hope 10 Reasons for Hope Find out about the issues CatholicVote is working on here....4:09 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun phone scam: missed jury duty
This could be happening in other places too, so seemed worth running: The Loudoun County Sheriff's Office and the Loudoun County Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court are advising residents of a potential telephone-based scam known as the "jury duty scam". In the jury duty scam, the scammer,...3:43 PM in Loudoun County, Safety | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kid's craft: Make-your-own Nativity
Just came across this today and thought some of you might have kids who would love it:...12:13 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Loudoun County Public Schools: school closings?
*************UPDATE: 1/27/11 *************** Loudoun County Public Schools are closed tomorrow! Have yourself A Merry Little Snow Day!...3:22 AM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 15, 2010
Down syndrome: another little extra
Dayna and Luke are the most recent mother/child duo in my Picasa album: Our Little Extras: Moms Celebrate Down syndrome! Dayna writes: Luke is our joy boy! He is almost 5 now and loves the beach and school. He charms everyone with his hugs and mischievous smile. I really...11:10 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
Military and government personnel: support Thomas More Law Center
All military, federal government and postal personnel: 2011 CFC enrollment ends Wednesday, December 15th. Our CFC number for your pledge form is #10792. Look for us in the CFC Directory under our Federation name: Christian Charities USA, #10792. Thank you! The Thomas More Law Center is a not-for-profit public...10:07 AM in Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
Forgiveness and recovery - Mary Karen Read
Forgiveness The words at the end were the final journal entry of Mary Karen Read, one of the 32 victims of the April 16, 2008 Virginia Tech massacre: When deep injury is done to us, we can never recover unless we forgive. Forgiveness does not change the past, but...8:52 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Why forgive? How to forgive
For Christians, forgiveness is not optional. God commands us to forgive, because - as Jesus said he came to set the captives free - God knows that unforgiveness is a state of bondage. While we may delude ourselves that we can get away with nursing this or that particular...8:17 AM in Advent, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (3)
New to MommyLife? Welcome!
If you like MommyLife, don't forget to sign up for my email list in the right sidebar! 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...7:06 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (3)
How Beautiful - the Body of Christ
How Beautiful Josh and Hattie used this at their wedding - and Maddy sings it at Mass sometimes. It always makes me cry....6:56 AM in Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
Sudan woman flogged for wearing pants
We need to rethink multiculturalism. These women need our prayers: Woman flogged in Sudan Sudan police arrest women protesting at flogging video By Opheera McDoom December 14, 2010 KHARTOUM (Reuters) - Sudanese police arrested dozens of women protesting on Tuesday against laws they say humiliate women after a video of...6:43 AM in Islam issues, Social Justice | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 13, 2010
Michelle: how about a slice of hypocrisy with your fries?
Follow-up to Michelle O'Bossy: "We can't just leave it up to parents."I am replacing the original picture because it proved to be a distraction to the central point I was making - which has to do with double standards, hypocrisy, and micro-managing the lives of American citizens. Let's try this...3:22 PM in Michelle Obama, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (17)
Michelle: "We can't just leave it up to the parents"
Michelle O'Bossy on parental incompetence: She also said: "childhood obesity isn't just a public health threat, it's not just an economic threat, it's a national security threat as well." Read more:at Politico - and tell me, do you think it's interesting that Our Glorious Leader and His Glorious Lady see...3:09 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Michelle Obama, Oppression | Permalink | Comments (3)
Euro-English - humor
From andie: The European Commission has just announced an agreement whereby English will be the official language of the European Union rather than German, which was the other possibility. As part of the negotiations, the British Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a...12:55 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (4)
Christmas advice: Stress less, live more
For several years, I've written a biweekly column for the Purcellville Gazette. Here is last week's: Christmas advice: Stress less, live more I confess. I was once a mom who overdid Christmas. For a number of years Christmas looked like Santa had showered us with enough stuff for a dozen...8:03 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (3)
December 12, 2010
Down syndrome Homecoming King and Queen
Yet another Down syndrome victory at a high school Homecoming - this time both King and Queen: Rachel and Jeffrey HT: Chrissy...6:39 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (2)
Maddy carols at Leesburg Christmas Parade
Maddy singing Christmas carols at the Leesburg Christmas Parade yesterday: Afterwards, she and I went to see Don Carlo - part of the series of Metropolitan Opera at the Movies - a simulcast of the actual performance yesterday at the Met. It was magnificent - but at five hours,...6:01 PM in Maddy, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kip and Samantha and my grandkids
My oldest daughter, Samantha and her husband Kip - whom we've known since Sam and Jasmine and I moved to Marin from San Francisco and Sam started fifth grade at Sun Valley School where Kip had been going all his life. Funny to think how one thing leads to...1:32 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (4)
Goji - design your own artisinal cereal
var myTarget='http://track.webgains.com/click.html?wglinkid=88577&wgcampaignid=88026&js=0'; var uri = 'http://track.webgains.com/link.html?wglinkid=88577&wgcampaignid=88026'; document.write(''); Looking for a unique personalized Christmas gift idea? How about a custom cereal blend you create with your own picture on the label? But let me back up and tell you how I got to know about Me&Goji custom atrisanal cereals. It...12:34 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Thanks to our Military: a Christmas Poem
A Different Christmas Poem HT: Patti, mother of a Marine...11:49 AM in Christmas, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
Down syndrome survey: siblings and parents
Your input is needed for a research project on having a family member with Down syndrome. The survey takes less than 15 minutes and your name will be entered in a drawing for a $50 Amazon gift card. Do you have a sibling with Down syndrome? You are invited to...11:28 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama abdicates to Bill Clinton
Don't you get the feeling this unworthy guy is just not interested in the job? He and Michelle have pretty much trashed tradition here in Washington - like for instance by her completely inappropriate wardrobe choices with bare arms and legs and cleavage galore, wild colors at somber occasions, and...11:15 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Christmas song creations on iPad, iPhone
Show your kids - it may give them a few ideas of their own: North Point's iBand Using only iPads and iPhones, North Point Community Church's iBand performs Carol of the Bells, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, and Feliz Navidad. HT: Becky...10:47 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Big family? Support, resources at ALFA
Four or more kids? You need to check this out: Association of Large Families of America www.fourormore.org HT: Suzanne...10:38 AM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (0)
For Catholics who've strayed
Catholics Come Home Curious? There's no better time than now. Click the banner below to begin your journey:...10:28 AM in Catholicism, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Manhattan Declaration: Apple censors Christian app
Apple Finds Christianity Offensive To Large Groups of People, Removes App by Matthew Warner Wednesday, December 01, 2010 The Manhattan Declaration is an ecumenical document promoting traditional marriage, the sanctity of human life and religious liberty. It's been signed by almost 500,000 people and is extremely civil and respectful...10:04 AM in Activism, Christian Persecution | Permalink | Comments (0)
Electronic pickpocketing
Thieves can access your credit card info without it ever leaving your purse: Electronic pickpocket I like the way they say this isn't widespread, but it sure looks like they've given a lot of dishonest people a thorough lesson in how to work the crowds for a more profitable...9:58 AM in Safety | Permalink | Comments (2)
Catholics in Congress
Praying that Catholics in Congress can make a difference - and that the faithless like Pelosi and Kerry - will have some sort of epiphany of what our church teaches: You can't be a Catholic on good standing and vote for pro-abortion candidates and policies. Meet the Catholics in Congress...9:35 AM in 2010 elections, Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 11, 2010
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...7:04 AM in Christmas, Family | Permalink | Comments (5)
December 10, 2010
Meaningful Christmas Gifts - through WorldVision
Give a life-changing gift in the name of someone special Goat$75. Give a goat. Goats nourish hungry children and families with healthy milk, cheese, and yogurt. Goats also give a much-needed income boost by providing offspring and extra dairy products for sale at the market. A healthy dairy goat can...9:26 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Check my giveaways
Hey y'all! Don't forget to check out the giveaways! You never know when something new will pop up - There are five going on right now! And I will be posting at least three more this weekend. To enter, just leave a comment. And don't be shy about leaving...9:08 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
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...8:22 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
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,...8:18 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Leesburg Christmas Parade tomorrow at 10!
Saturday, December 12 Leesburg Christmas Parade 10 AM from St. John's past the Courthouse Look for the Living Nativity float - and Maddy singing!...8:13 PM in Christmas, Loudoun County, Maddy | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kidkraft dollhouse 57% off at Amazon
One of my readers ordered two of these on Amazon yesterday - I can see why as this Kidkraft dollhouse is normally 227.99 on sale at Amazon for 99.00 It comes furnished and with free shipping The customer reviews are excellent. Kidkraft is a reliable brand - I have...4:49 PM in Bargains, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Holiday eating tips - humor
Making the rounds, unattributed: HOLIDAY EATING TIPS 1. Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Holiday spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls. 2. Drink as much eggnog as you can....10:56 AM in Christmas, Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama's angry lack of leadership
In case you've not been keeping up with politics, I've been vaguely watching things fall apart in a peripheral vision sort of way. Obama is angry. His leftist base is mad as a shook up hornets' nest. There's rioting in Britain over increased tuition costs, stemming from the narcissistic/entitlement mentality...10:12 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Obama - 2010 Nobel all about him too :)
Obama honors Nobel winner with statement about himself By: Byron York 12/10/10 8:29 AM Chief Political Correspondent There was an extraordinary scene at the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo Friday morning. The prize went to imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo, who was barred by the Chinese government...9:40 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Luke Scott: Obama not born in America
For the past two years, those who question Obama's presidential qualifications have been ridiculed and scorned by elites like Anderson Cooper - you know, the very professional telejourno who dubbed Tea Party patriots "teabaggers," thus introducing (as is the left's wont) yet another sexual perversion into the American mainstream while...8:53 AM in Birther movement, Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 9, 2010
Linus: the true meaning of Christmas (Charlie Brown Christmas)
Charlie Brown Christmas...6:42 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Christmas books for your family library
A reader recently wrote to thank me for the idea of having a collection of books to unpack each Christmas. Since this was another megamom, I was surprised - I had never thought of this as a novel idea. So let me share this idea clearly: Just as you...9:54 AM in Books, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (4)
What makes a story "Christian"?
A number of years ago, my kids were involved in a production of Charles Dickens' Christmas Carol. Not sure what prompted me to write this, but I came across it today and thought it worth repeating: Having children involved in theater when you are a Christian homeschooling family can make...9:32 AM in Choosing Children's Literature series | Permalink | Comments (3)
Dickens' Christmas Carol - gorgeous edition for .12!
Another must-have Christmas book for your family collection - Reading Dickens' timeless classic aloud can become a wonderful family tradition. And here is another Amazon bargain - a large and lavish hardback with beautiful illustrations, used copies listed for as little as .12:...9:17 AM in Books, Christmas, Inspiration | 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...8:55 AM in Art, Books, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
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...8:53 AM in Advent, Christmas, Downsizing | Permalink | Comments (0)
Down syndrome births increasing
Interesting: Down syndrome births are increasing despite the push for abortion.Do people with Down syndrome have a special role to play in our culture? This seems to affirm that God wants them among us.But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath...7:53 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (3)
December 8, 2010
Waiting for the tooth fairy
It's been years since I had a visit from the tooth fairy, but I deserve one tonight. I had a tooth pulled this morning - the last bottom left molar. It's a tooth that has been bothering me for almost 2 years and I've put off doing anything about it...10:16 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (5)
Patsy Cline - Life's Railway to Heaven - Yukon Pass
Posted this a couple years ago and when someone commented today I thought I ought to post it again. I forgot how impressive Patsy Cline's voice was - especially in this starkly simple gospel song. Oh, and that train ride looks like a doozy too - kinda like the last...5:56 PM in Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Fire safety for children
With winter setting in - fireplaces, candles, and holidays - I thought it would be a good time to rerun this entry from the archives: Justin attends an early intervention preschool in the morning to get the little extra help he needs. The other day the firemen came to...5:09 PM in Safety | Permalink | Comments (2)
Christmas movies for the family
In building this list, I've looked for family-friendly movies. Each of these is available at Netflix and maybe your local library. I've linked to Amazon so you can read the synopsis and customer reviews. Besides, with Blockbuster charging nearly $5 rentals and DVDs as low as 6.99, you might as...6:53 AM in Christmas, Movies | Permalink | Comments (11)
December 7, 2010
Advent reflection: Little Wonders, Rob Thomas
Meet the Robinsons - reconciliation and healing, part 2 (click for part 1): Little Wonders - Rob Thomas Here's the song that brought me - and according to YouTube comments, many, many people - to tears. Why does this song resonate? Because each of us has been deeply wounded...8:59 AM in Advent, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
December 6, 2010
Political cartoons - teach your kids
From Creators Syndicate. The artist is Gary Varvel and you can access all his political cartoons - and many other artists - at Creators.com. Political cartoons are a great way to teach your children about the issues. I am always amazed by the ability of artists to sum up...6:15 PM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's FCC: "Free Internet access for every nappy-headed child"
Just another example of how the president who promised to heal racial division stacked his Regime with angry, divisive people who've done their best to whip up more. Introducing Obama FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, daughter of Congressman James Clyburn. This is pitiful. An angry woman with power to spare recounting...1:21 PM in Obama Nation, Oppression, Racism | Permalink | Comments (3)
Helen Thomas - more antisemitism, backlash
Helen Thomas explains that the Arabs - "who gave so much to this country have been maligned" - because "Congress, the White House, Hollywood Wall Street, are all owned by Zionists." "We had a great civil rights movement. We should have a great Arab rights movement." Helen Thomas Antisemitism...6:48 AM in Islam issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 5, 2010
St. Francis Assisi on injustice
Our friends, then, are all those who unjustly afflict us with trials and ordeals, shame and injustice, sorrows and torments, martyrdom and death; we must love them greatly for we all possess eternal life because of them. St. Francis Assisi...11:39 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (3)
Hallelujah Chorus Food Court "flash mob"
People are calling this a flash mob, but it's really so much more than that. I know I ran this a short time ago, but I keep being drawn back to it and it still makes me cry. Over 10 million views now - but in case you missed it:...11:20 AM in Christmas, Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (10)
December 4, 2010
Michael Gungor - Doxology
My son Josh has sent me a few pieces by Michael Gugor. Amazing , amazing guitar and composition control: Michael Gungor - Doxology Live performance: Michael Gungor shredding on the guitar like nobody's business in Nashville at 12th&Porter 03/2010! What do you think?...4:04 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
At Christmas: Thank you to our military
I can't imagine how it feels to put your life on the line for your countrymen, even those who despise the military. Can't imagine how it feels to have a Commander-in-Chief who does not adequately support you, who sends you into battle while telling the enemy the date he plans...7:42 AM in Christmas, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (4)
12 Days of Christmas for a big family
You will LOVE this! The 12 Days of a Large Family Christmas Thanks to Jane, who saw it posted at Conversion Diary...7:39 AM in Big families, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Advent preparation - for all ages
Rerunning this in case anyone missed it. I LOVE the simplicity and directness of this Advent preparation - fits anyone from a small child to a world-weary senior. And it's portable. Maddy and I are on our way to DC this morning for her audition for Catholic University School...7:17 AM in Advent | Permalink | Comments (0)
Free Latin course - online video
What a great resource! Cursum Latinum Learn Latin! Suitable for beginners, Latin is taught slowly from the ground up, using spoken Latin, while keeping a firm grip on grammar. The first 2 lessons have some English. The rest are only in Latin. You will need to study the course in...7:05 AM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 3, 2010
MommyLife meets Amy's Humble Musings
Who did I have lunch with yesterday? First person with the correct answer gets their choice of my books And after you guess, I'll go back and finish the story :) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I first "met" Amy - of Humble Musings fame - on February 18, 2005 when she left a...3:38 PM in Blogging, My life | Permalink | Comments (10)
December 1, 2010
Advent/Christmas family spiritual preparation
This is an absolutely beautiful Advent/Christmas preparation for the family. Very simple language, concrete images which will make the concepts real for children - but profound spiritual work. It's published by Relevant Radio - a PDF file with 3 colors. I am using it myself, and hope some of you...8:12 PM in Advent, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (6)
Rep to Dem"This is why the people have thrown you out!"
An obviously unqualified Democrat Representative acting as Speaker pro tem in Pelosi's place (obviously unqualified because she is sitting there with a bovine expression on her face repeating the phrases fed to her by - whom? an aide? - throws her power around: GOP Rep. Buyer Blasts Acting Dem Speaker:...7:14 PM in 2010 elections | Permalink | Comments (1)
Smithsonian pulls ant-covered Jesus video
Yesterday: Smithsonian Portrait Gallery: ant-covered Christ for Christmas Today: Jesus blasphemy is gone, but "Landmark LGBT Exhibit" lives on - you will still not want to take your family through February 19, 2011. Smithsonian Pulls Video of Ant-Covered Jesus But Leaves Images of Naked Brothers Kissing, Genitalia, Men in Chains,...12:08 PM in Christian Persecution | Permalink | Comments (8)
Lillian Vernon - free shipping
For those who asked:...11:37 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kids' Christmas gifts - music appreciation
*From Kids' Christmas gifts - how to choose: 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...11:15 AM in Christmas, Homeschooling, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Catholics counter NJ atheist billboard
From THEBLAZE: Billboard Battle: Catholics Put Up Pro-Christmas Billboard Near Atheists' 'Reason' MessageRecently, a group called American Atheists purchased a large, anti-Christmas billboard outside the heavily-traveled Lincoln Tunnel between New York and New Jersey. Now, a Catholic group has started a billboard war of sorts by purchasing a pro-Christmas message...9:39 AM in Catholicism, Culture Wars | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kids' Christmas gifts - how to choose
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...8:34 AM in Christmas, Montessori, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (1)
