July 2011
July 31, 2011
Perfection in the small things
I've been checking email today because at the last minute I listed a bunch of stuff at Craigslist - some for sale and some for free. Have met some interesting people and enjoyed thinking of some of our pieces of furniture going to new homes where they will be loved....5:59 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (3)
Sen. Rubio's Commencement Address
So beautiful, pointing always to God: C-SPAN Airs Senator Rubio's Commencement Address to Ave Maria Law School Graduates HT: Anne...10:53 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 29, 2011
Gillian Welch and David Rawlings: I'll Fly Away
For your listening pleasure :) Gillian Welch: I'll Fly Away 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?...7:32 PM in Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama twitters debt, loses 40,000 followers
President Barack Obama takes debt battle to Twitter, loses more than 40,000 followers in one dayRead more at New York Daily News...7:25 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
NFP evangelical authors now divorced
This is disappointing news:An Evolving View of Natural Family Planning Josh Anderson for The New York Times Bethany Patchin, 30, at home with her four children. When younger, Ms. Patchin saw contraception as contrary to God's will. By MARK OPPENHEIMER Published: July 8, 2011 In August 1999, Bethany Patchin, an...5:48 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (15)
President Bush rides with Wounded Warriors
Say what you will about President Bush, he is a gracious, authentic person and he loves our military as much as they love him. He really gives meaning to the title Commander in Chief: Wounded Warriors & President Bush (July 4th, 2011) HT: Tripp...3:57 PM in Military matters, Veterans | Permalink | Comments (1)
Last day to enter giveaways
Ten MommyLife giveaways end tonight. So scoot over to my giveaway page and leave a comment for anything and everything that would be useful for you and your family. Meanwhile, I'll keep on packing....7:59 AM in | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 28, 2011
Moving Blues - so many moves, so little time!
My history of moves: birthplace: Kansas City, Kansas -> Fort Smith Arkansas -> Atlanta, Georgia -> Rockford, Illinois -> Fairbanks, Alaska -> Long Beach, California -> Those were all before I was six years old. Always dodging bill collectors, my dad would pack his family up and leave by night....7:18 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (16)
July 27, 2011
One mom's modesty manifesto
My current article at The Catholic Herald:One Mom's Modesty ManifestoBarbara Curtis7/27/2011Summer is here, which means shopping with daughters, which means tiptoeing around clothing landmines to avoid department store explosions. "Yes, it looks cute on you, but ... ." Too much cleavage, too much midriff, too much thigh. Not appropriate. Too...12:27 PM in Girls | Permalink | Comments (6)
Mozart: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Mozart " Eine kleine Nachtmusik" Allegro Isn't it beautiful? Don't you think your child would grow up differently if you played lots of this kind of music when he was young? My experience is that if you fill them with lots of good music, when they are making choices...8:00 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 26, 2011
Queen Michelle not satisfied with McDonald's changes
From one of our favorite sites: ObamaFoodarama, which chronicles the epicurean delights and party hearty sensibilities of the current occupants of the White House, as well as their do-as-we-say-not-as-we-do dictates to everyday people like us:Tuesday, July 26, 2011 First Lady Michelle Obama Issues Statement About McDonald's Happy Meal Changes Kids...7:32 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (4)
America the new Argentina? Obamas the new Perons?
Sue sent the link to the Anchoress today, who is also pondering how a concentration on politics can become undesirable: Politics Destroys the Soul I agree with her - it is becoming increasingly difficult to accept the posturing and posing of politicians, who seem completely to have lost any sense...4:11 PM in Economic issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
Press rips Beckhams for too many babies
Population boonMore people leads to more prosperityJuly 20, 2011|By Jeff Jacoby, Globe Columnist DAVID AND VICTORIA Beckham were overjoyed by the birth last week of their fourth child, a baby girl they named Harper. "We all feel so blessed and the boys love their baby sister so much!!!'' the former...3:09 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (4)
Katyn - 1940 Soviet massacre of 22,000 Poles
Katyn (english subs) part 6 Not for the faint of heart, but for anyone who cries at injustice and man's inhumanity to man, Katyn is an exquisite and heart-wrenching film about one of the worst war crimes ever committed - the 1940 execution of nearly 22,000 Polish military leaders,...7:40 AM in History, Movies | Permalink | Comments (6)
July 25, 2011
Carol Guscott: Faces of Hope
A few years ago, while teaching/critiquing manuscripts at Mount Hermon Christian Writers Camp, I had the privilege of meeting Carol Guscott, a Jamaican woman who'd been the victim of a terrible crime which left her permanently disfigured and for a while without hope. Through the kindness of strangers she had...3:58 PM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Stop texting while driving, unless. . . .
8:44 AM in Humor, Safety | Permalink | Comments (0)
Giveaways!
Posted four giveaways Saturday and have a bunch more this morning. All will end Friday, so scoot over to my giveaway page - and don't forget to check back later today for at least a half dozen more!Update: 10 giveaways posted now!...8:13 AM in Free stuff | Permalink
July 24, 2011
Family Quotations
I also write weekly for my church bulletin. This is my 102nd column, published today (I just grabbed the vintage picture to set the tone). A truly eclectic mix: Speaking of Families. . . . A round-up of quotations - from the silly to sublime Rejoice with your family in...5:58 PM in Quotes to live by | Permalink | Comments (0)
My latest PalinTracker at Pajamas Media
At Pajamas Media, I'm known as the PalinTracker, which means I sift through everything written or spoken about her to put together a narrative every few weeks. Here's the latest: PalinTracker: After Email Release, Still Undefeated But still no announcement. July 22, 2011 - 12:00 am - by Barbara CurtisConsidering...5:45 PM in Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun Republican convention yesterday
We went to the Republican Convention yesterday to help select our candidate for chairman of the Board of Supervisors. It was quite an experience and I recommend it for anyone to see how the process works - which is not always how you want it to work :) Actually, the...10:48 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (4)
Jonny needs surgery, but not serious
I decided a long time ago not to worry about things until we know for sure, so I was not worried about the lump on the back of Jonny's head. Dr. Groeber - best pediatrician in the county in my book - had palpated it and determined that it seemed...10:15 AM in Family | Permalink | Comments (7)
So long politics, for now
For a few weeks, there've been some changes percolating here at MommyLife. You may have already noticed a shift from politics to the many other topics that drive this blog. I began MommyLife on January 15, 2005 with the purpose of enlightening, equipping and empowering moms. In the past few...12:42 AM in My life | Permalink | Comments (11)
July 23, 2011
Maddy singing at Magnolia's tonight! Y'all come!
This is short notice, but Maddy will be singing tonight at Magnolia's - with her incomparable accompanist Caleb Nei - from 10pm to 1:00 am. If you can make it, you are in for a splendid musical feast as they will be singing/playing everything from Janis Joplin to Ella Fitzgerald...6:05 PM in Maddy | Permalink | Comments (2)
Custom G.I. Joes by Andrew
My 15-year-old grandson Andrew has become quite the entrepreneur, turning a hobby into a business - all on his own. He buys lots of G. I. Joes, takes them apart and then makes custom action figures with different parts and paint. Then he lists them on EBay, where there...7:54 AM in Boys, Family | Permalink | Comments (4)
July 22, 2011
Homeschool encouragement
Most families aren't homeschooling right now, so bookmark this for when you need a boost. Thanks to Molly:Beating the Homeschooling Blues (Instead of Singing Them) You've met her. It's week eleven of the school year and she's on week three. She can't bear to let her kids skip a single...7:20 PM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (3)
Shakespeare in celebrity voices
My friend Carol - Invisi-Gal - sent this - really amazing and fun! Impressionist Does Shakespeare in Celebrity Voices What a gift! Be sure to show any of your kids interested in acting....6:08 PM in Humor, Theater | Permalink | Comments (2)
Houston housing needed 8/23-30
#2 son Matt is coming to Houston August 23-30 for an audition - with #4 son to help him make a good time of it. They were able to get airfare from Dulles really cheap - roundtrip for under $200! Now they're looking for a place to stay. I know...4:51 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (4)
India Pakistan Wagah Attari Border Closing Ceremony
In case you thought the Changing of the Guard was rigid. I'd never seen this before and thank New Advent for posting: India Pakistan Wagah Attari Border Closing Ceremony (By Sanjeev Bhaskar - The Longest Road). From Voice of America: March 12, 2009 Flag Ceremony on India-Pakistan Border Kicks Up...2:59 PM in Multiculturalism | Permalink | Comments (0)
In Search of Shakespeare - PBS documentary
Who said Shakespeare was boring? If you decided when you were in school that The Bard was not your cup of tea, I urge you to revisit that closed door, ppen it wide and let some fresh air in. You and your family will be so blessed exploring and...10:10 AM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 21, 2011
Is Scott York really a Republican?
Please send this far and wide. Saturday is our local convention. If you have registered as a delegate, please vote for Steve Stockman and be rid of this out-for-himself politician once and for all: Is Scott York really a Republican? Please see all my posts on Scott York....5:48 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
July 20, 2011
Jonny's MRI, Tim and Pat's wisdom teeth
Jonny has a lump on the back of his head - it's been worrying us for some time. Antibiotics didn't reduce the size, and it is causing him pain, so today he had an MRI.I was worried about him holding still, but he did great:I chose an open MRI place...9:32 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (5)
Winchester/Shenandoah Theater: Oliver! 7/20-31
I love to turn readers on to the many performing arts events around Loudoun County, but especially when there's some personal involvement, as in hearing from the parent of the young man fortunate to be cast as the Artful Dodger in a real, grown-up, professional production of Oliver!, which...7:15 PM in Theater, Winchester | Permalink | Comments (0)
Why children need traditional fairy tales
I first ran this in April, 2010, but as I read the preceding NYT article on the dumbing down of playgrounds, this immediately came to mind as a natural companion piece. In the over feminization of our culture - that is, letting women take the reins about how things should...7:58 AM in Choosing Children's Literature series | Permalink | Comments (1)
Can playgrounds be too safe?
Lots of wisdom in this article. Besides the thought-provoking premise - that we've dumbed down children's play by preventing risks - there's a lot here for parents to ponder about the way children grow and learn. The physical doesn't exist independently of other developmental areas. Children need to take risks,...7:41 AM in Exercise and play | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 19, 2011
The trouble with Scott York -and how to fix it
My family and I are signed up as delegates for Saturday's convention and we will be voting for Steve Stockman, I urge others to do the same. We need to get rid of Scott York and his treacherous political wheeling and dealing. Remember? He was the Republican who abandoned his...8:42 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (3)
Wendy Deng leaps to Murdoch's defense
Ruport Murdoch attacked, wife Wendy Deng defends I found this amazing, and have watched it over and over. While Murdoch's son sat paralyzed a few moments before rising, his wife actually leaped to his defense. You can even see that she landed a hit on the attacker's head though...3:33 PM in Current Affairs | Permalink | Comments (3)
Lovettsville internet providers?
We're moving to Lovettsville August 1 and I need to arrange our internet service. Would appreciate hearing from anyone with experience or ideas. Our particular address is not served by Verizon Internet....12:30 PM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
Breastfeeding Doll controversy
Breast Feeding Doll The Talk: Breastfeeding Doll what do you think?...12:03 PM in Babies | Permalink | Comments (7)
Infant Loss Photography at no cost
Some great resources for parents who will hold their babies only briefly before releasing them to Heaven: Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep - NBC's Today Show - 2008-03-05 Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (NILMDTS) - Trisomy Craig Cardiff - Smallest Wingless...9:35 AM in Babies, Birth | Permalink | Comments (1)
Pope appoints Chaput Archbishop of Philadelphia
Wonderful news, as Chaput has been a very straightforward and fearless defender of conservative values and adherence to Church teachings: Pope taps Chaput for Philadelphia Jul. 18, 2011 By John L Allen Jr Archbishop Charles Chaput (CNS) DENVER -- Archbishop Charles Chaput of Denver, widely perceived both as a leader...8:42 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Biblical Far Side
My friend Ann sent these: ...8:30 AM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 18, 2011
What keeps you from adopting?
Are you living the American dream? Get over it! There's so much more beyond: Common objections to adoption HT: The Lindsay Family: We are a family blessed with eight children. Our oldest three were born to us, and our youngest are each adopted. They youngest four have Down Syndrome and...9:42 PM in Adoption | Permalink | Comments (1)
Baby laughing at ripping paper
Baby Laughing Hysterically at Ripping Paper...8:37 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
Family archives
Found this this morning while Tripp and I were packing for the August 1 move: the last page of a baby name book we were browsing through while awaiting our first baby in 1983. Can you read my writing? It says Boys Jeremy Gabriel Benjamin -son of the right...8:19 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (0)
Borders going out of business
Had you heard about this? A complete surprise to me - like seeing a giant fall: Borders to Shut Down By MIKE SPECTOR Borders Group Inc. said it would liquidate after the second-largest U.S. bookstore chain failed to receive any offers to save it. Borders, which employs about 10,700 people,...6:10 PM in Economic issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
VJ Day in Honolulu, August 14, 1945
VJ Day, Honolulu Hawaii, August 14, 1945 from Richard Sullivan on Vimeo. Sullivan writes:65 Years Ago my Dad shot this film along Kalakaua Ave. in Waikiki capturing spontaneous celebrations that broke out upon first hearing news of the Japanese surrender. Kodachrome 16mm film: God Bless Kodachrome, right? I was able...5:39 PM in History | Permalink | Comments (4)
26' Marilyn Monroe statue unveiled in Chicago
There was really no one quite like Marilyn Monroe - the original inspiration for Elton John's "Candle in the Wind" - which he cavalierly transferred to Lady Di upon her death. Aside from the sex goddess image and the cravings rooted in a troubled past, she was a woman...5:02 PM in Feminism | Permalink | Comments (7)
Going back to work when the kids are in school
For discussion: Hi Barbara! Just a quick note.....the twins are attending our church for school! Yeah! It's Redeemer Lutheran here in Austin. I never dreamed that first of all I would be able to stay at home with my kids (as you remember) and NOW I cannot believe my kids...4:46 PM in Mothering | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 17, 2011
Derek Webb - Wedding Dress
I've been traveling with Maddy. That means a lot of time on back roads (because I always choose the back roads over highways) with Maddy sound asleep and the darkness all around. When Maddy is awake, she plays a vast array of music on her Zune - Paul McCartney, Led...9:06 PM in Inspiration, Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 16, 2011
Bob Dylan Through the Years
So excited about seeing Bob Dylan with my husband and my daughter at Merriweather Post Pavilion August 16: Bob Dylan Through the Years HT: Francis Beckwith...2:31 AM in Music, Music greats | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 14, 2011
"Mock the Spending" 100 videos in 24 hours - get involved!
Sometimes simple works best. In these three short videos, young people led by Nick D'Orazio - whose work I've featured before (Could-have-been love story) - take on some complex topics to kick off Nick's vision for a unique, ambitious, and interactive PowerLine Contest entry.First, check these two short videos, then...8:22 AM in Government Waste | Permalink | Comments (0)
Debt crisis: Power Line $100,000 contest ends 7/15
This is short notice, but I just became aware of this:Announcing the Power Line PrizeOur nation faces an unprecedented financial crisis. Every knowledgeable citizen understands that the fiscal path we are on is unsustainable. Indefinite continuation of the status quo is not an option. There are only two possibilities: reform...7:37 AM in Contest | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 13, 2011
Obama: Modern US President (Gilbert&Sullivan)
Obama! A Modern U.S. President (musical spoof) Spun from The Model of a Modern Major General HT: Hillbuzz...10:00 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama's Arab polls now lower than Bush
My goodness. Things are certainly not going as planned for the Obama Regime:Obama's Popularity in Arab World Now Lower than Bush's Alana Goodman 07.13.2011 - 1:29 PM James Zogby, the anti-Israel pollster who released these findings today, blames the drop in support for Obama in the Arab world on Obama's...5:09 PM in 2012 elections | Permalink | Comments (1)
Loudoun: The Rob Jones Story premier LVHS 7/22
To Purcellville and all our neighbors: Here's something we should all get behind - a movie world premier by a native son about a native son/war hero. Please mark your calendars and tell your friends and neighbors: Trailer for Survive. Recover. Live. (The Rob Jones Story) from Ivan Kander on...3:29 PM in Everyday Heroes, Loudoun County, Military matters, Purcellville, Virginia | Permalink | Comments (2)
Rubio: Every aspect of America worse under Obama
Marco Rubio: Everything Is Worse Under Obama Finally we have Republican leadership. Instead of the Let's-Make-a-Deal-So-I-Can-Be-Invited-To-All-The-DC-Parties Country Club Tired Old Republicans, we're hearing the truth from people like Bachman, West, Rubio - who are holding Boehner's feet to the fire to stand by the mandate of the electorate last...12:57 PM in 2012 elections | Permalink | Comments (1)
Allen West on Obama: a real leader does not use scare tactics
Allen West on Debt Ceiling 7/12/2011...12:53 PM in 2012 elections | Permalink | Comments (1)
Obama loses 1/3 Hispanic support
Poll: Obama Loses 1/3 of Hispanic Support, Abortion a Reason by Steven Ertelt | Washington, DC | LifeNews.com | 7/12/11 1:48 PMA new poll shows pro-abortion President Barack Obama has lost about one-third of the support he had from Hispanics in the 2008 presidential election, and one pro-life Hispanic...11:16 AM in 2012 elections | Permalink | Comments (0)
VA Special Olympics - family/sibling surveys
Dear Special Olympics Virginia Families: Doctoral students often contact Special Olympics about doing research studies for their degrees. Special Olympics programs across the country were recently contacted by two doctoral students who are doing research about relatives of persons with a developmental disability. Attached is information about the two surveys....11:07 AM in Special Olympics, Virginia | Permalink | Comments (0)
Elisabeth Elliot - love must be real
Love is about more than being "nice" - This Love Among You "As I have loved you, so you are to love one another. If there is this love among you, then all will know that you are my disciples" (Jn 13:34,35 NEB). The love of Jesus for his disciples...10:46 AM in Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Tea Party Patriots: How to use Twitter
Contrary to media propaganda, the Tea Party is not a top-down but a completely grassroots coalition of people who want to see our government reformed and reined in by the Constitution. There are many different organizations which contribute to the flow of information among those of us identified with the...10:15 AM in Activism, Conservatism, Conservative resources, Tea Party USA | Permalink | Comments (0)
Win a family reunion package
This sounds interesting - though the top prize reunion says up to 10 family members. Where do they think we live - in China?Anyway - maybe someone out there wants to enter? Let us know if you do and if we need to vote: HAVE a Family of Characters?They Could Help...10:07 AM in Contest | Permalink | Comments (0)
Bob Dylan - catching up with an icon 8/16
So cool. Having a daughter with broad musical taste means things like getting to re-experience Bob Dylan as Maddy discovers/absorbs/sings his music. When she invited her dad and me to see him in concert, we thought Why Not? Still love his music and know this is sure to be a...9:06 AM in Music greats, My life, Nostalgia | Permalink | Comments (0)
Places in the Heart
You seriously need to put this on your Netflix queue. One of my favorite movies of all time. This is the final scene, which still makes me cry: Places in the Heart, Final Scene This 1984 film features Sally Field, Danny Glover, John Malkovich, Ed Harris and Lindsay Crouse. Malkovich...8:53 AM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (1)
Loudoun: "All for the Union!" at Hillsboro thru 7/24
Matt is appearing in this play - a great way to make history come alive for your children "All for the Union" now through July 24! Old Stone School Theatre37098 Charles Town Pike (Rt. 9), Hillsboro Lida and Lizzie Dutton and Sarah Steer of Waterford, Virginia dealt with foraging troops...8:26 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 12, 2011
Patriotic flash mob - Cape Cod July 1
Watch it to the end - it builds: Flash Mob at Cape Cod Stop and Shop - Spirit of America 5pm on July 1st, 2011 in Orleans, Cape Cod, MA, shoppers stocking up for the 4th of July got a surprise shot of patriotism to start their weekend! This flash...8:10 AM in July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (5)
July 11, 2011
How to avoid going to bed angry
Under my portrait of Jack and Jean Burden's 50 years of marriage, Sue left this as a comment/question, but it seemed like a discussion many of us could benefit from:What I want to know is how do you accomplish never going to bed mad? Doesn't it seem like a good...1:16 PM in Marriage | Permalink | Comments (9)
Obama: "Time to eat our peas"
Drudge headline. Talk about the Nanny State! Obama makes our point:TIME TO 'EAT OUR PEAS' At the same Mama Lecture press conference he also shook his finger in our little kids faces and said "It's time to pull off the bandaid." Good grief. This gets funnier and funnier....12:31 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (0)
7/11 7-11 Free Slurpee Day!
Have you gotten yours yet? Don't be shy! 7-Eleven plans to give away 5 million Slurpees to customers on Monday, July 11, 2011, to celebrate the company's 84th birthday....12:21 PM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (0)
Fifty years of marriage - one success story
I write a weekly column for my parish bulletin. Last week, I asked my friends Jack and Jean Burden, now married 51 years, to share their wisdom, knowing that in the end I'd have to distill it down to 500 words. And isn't this a great picture? I want to...11:15 AM in Marriage | Permalink | Comments (5)
Of Gods and Men - now at Netflix
I was fortunate to receive a screener of Gods and Men last March, and wrote about it: Of Gods and Men: must-see movie, noting that unless you lived near an artsy/indie movie theater, you would be unlikely to find it. Now it is available on DVD and so you could...10:45 AM in Movies | Permalink | Comments (2)
Serene Acres, Bluemont: unsafe practices?
As a follow up to my run-in with the owner of Serene Acres who thinks Hollow Oak Road exists for her private enterprise, Kelly left this comment which asks some important questions: I wonder if this riding school's insurance carrier is aware that off property lessons with possibly inexperienced riders...9:31 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (6)
July 9, 2011
Homeschool furniture - forever table and chairs
I know you can do homeschool anywhere, anytime, anyhow, but I appreciated having a dedicated space, so we gave up our family room. Also, since we had so many children, it made sense to invest in furniture that was serviceable and durable. You used to be able to buy...4:44 PM in Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (2)
South Sudan gains nationhood
In case you haven't been following the story of Sudan, it is another story of Muslim terrorism against Christians with 2 million African Christians killed and/or enslaved. blockquote>After Years of Struggle, South Sudan Becomes a New Nation Tyler Hicks/The New York Times President Salva Kiir gathered with leaders from around...2:07 PM in Islam issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
Rick Santelli: DON'T raise the debt ceiling!
Rick Santelli - the man who could well be credited with sparking the grassroots movement now known as the Tea Party - keeps it simple, passionate and full of common sense: Rick Santelli goes on another epic rant!...12:32 PM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (2)
Raising kids who serve with love
Once upon a time - when we lived where houses were in walking distance - my four boys had paper routes. Their entrepreneurial dad and I were grateful for the opportunity to help them learn about keeping commitments, working for wages, and handling accounts. We were also grateful the local...12:04 PM in Life Lessons From My Kids | Permalink | Comments (1)
Scott York's history "serving" Loudoun
******** My Scott York collection: Loudoun: Act now to oust Scott York Scott York's Desperate Flip-Flop Scott York: Send him back to the private sector Scott York's history "serving" Loudoun County ************The campaign to oust Scott York and get less self-serving leadership into Loudoun's Board of Supervisors is heating up....9:28 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
Scott York: send him back to the private sector
One more on our Board of Supervisors Chairman election. I know this doesn't apply to most of my readers, but I hope it will inspire some - who like me have been focused on national politics - to get to work on the local level to do all you can...9:24 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun: Scott York's desperate flip-flop
So is Scott York a principled idealist, or a political opportunist? You be the judge. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdH1W3eI1J0 YorkOpposesGangOfFive.wmv Just four years ago Scott was making substantial donations and other support to some of the worst Democrats ever elected in this county, including Andrea McGimsey, Stevens Miller, Kelly Burk, Jeanie West, and...8:44 AM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Stores getting rid of self-checkouts
Sometimes it's not about the money. And retailers may be finding less loyalty from customers who deal with machines rather than smiling faces. On the other hand, the employees need to be friendly to be better than machines. In Purcellville, where I shop, we have two stores: Giant and Bloom....8:06 AM in Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (14)
July 8, 2011
Paul Simon and Miraim Makeba - African concert
Maddy emailed this to her dad and me. I can't begin to say how happy I am that my kids have such broad musical taste - that they're curious about all genres and eras. If that is something you want for your children, start early to introduce them to lots...10:11 PM in Multiculturalism, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Talk about one track mind. . .
Unbelievable. I'm not exactly sure where this guy fits in in British politics, but in this clip, he gives the same answer six times to six different questions - in less than two and a half minutes. Ed Miliband These Strikes Are Wrong HT: Judy...9:55 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (1)
Norman Rockwell on family vacations
Thought this would make you smile in the midst of summer outings and vacations. It's called Going and Coming. Norman Rockwell portrayed so many situations that resonate with families. If he was left out of your education - which he may have been as the emphasis in art has...9:39 PM in Art | Permalink | Comments (1)
Serene Acres, Bluemont: not good neighbors
[See also: Serene Acres, Bluemont: unsafe practices? for further discussion of legal and safety considerations.]]This morning I was driving up Hollow Oak Road when I came upon a group of horse riders. That's not uncommon where I live and people here stop or slow down, wait for the riders to...4:39 PM in My life | Permalink | Comments (20)
Atlanta school scandal: "The Devil Made Me Do It!"
This is funny, but the way the media are seizing the No Child Left Behind Act (and inserting Bush's name whenever possible) plus selling us a sob story about the pressure teachers are under to bring in good scores on standardized tests - well, it just made me remember this...8:39 AM in Public schools | Permalink | Comments (2)
Atlanta Schools scandal: decade of cheating
Excuse the ad, but worth waiting for the this succinct summary of a terrible injustice: Test Cheating Scandal Rocks Atlanta Schools I like how the mother of three calls it "the worst case of black-on-black crime."More details:(Feb. 20, 2009) Beverly Hall, Atlanta superintendent of public schools, holds up her award...8:22 AM in Public schools | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 7, 2011
Loudoun: act now to oust Scott York
Time is Running Out Must file by July 10 5PM! If you haven't filled out a form, please contact us and we'll be happy to bring you a form, or you can download one using the download button to the right. If you haven't turned your form in yet,...10:02 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 6, 2011
Summer comings and goings
So it's been a quiet 10 days around here. Tomorrow we'll be back to normal as I am going south to pick up Jonny, Jesse, Daniel and Justin - who left for Easter Seals Camp 10 days ago: Things to note: Jonny's graduation autograph hound - a present from a...7:50 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 6: St. Maria Goretti
I know not all my readers are Catholics, but hope you can appreciate how remembering the lives of the saints provides an example for us and hope that we too can live righteous lives. Today's is a poignant one to share with your teens: New! Saint of the Day--now available...4:57 PM in Saints | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 5, 2011
Welcome to my 13th grandchild, Josephine Hope
My 13th grandchild was born this morning at 12:04 but unfortunately I don't know if or when we'll get to meet her as her mother estranged herself from our family for the third time a little over a year ago. Of course this is a constant sadness in all of...8:37 PM in Family | Permalink | Comments (9)
Ronald Reagan on July 4
July 4th has come and gone, but may the spirit live on. May we continue to become more informed each day about our country's heritage and may we pass it on to our children so that it will never be lost.So one last word on the meaning of July 4...8:59 AM in July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (2)
July 4, 2011
Rush Limbaugh Joplin MO visit video - update
New video: Rush Limbaugh speaks in Joplin, MO, 7/4/11 When a conservative does something generous - as Rush did today by bringing a truckload of Two If By Tea to Joplin's Fourth of July Celebration - the Left hate machine kicks in: He's doing it for promotion purposes, he just...10:32 PM in Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (7)
Joplin, Mo celebrates July 4
Joplin celebrates Fourth, takes breather from tornado recovery Riley Lowther, 4, waits as her father, Michael, right, checks out after shopping for fireworks at Jack's Fireworks in Joplin, Mo., July 3, 2011. For the Fourth of July, the city has planned an extended display of fireworks, and beyond the celebration,...2:03 PM in Disasters, July 4 | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 4 hymn: Faith of Our Fathers
Faith of Our Fathers - July 4 Faith of Our Fathers Faith of our fathers, living still In spite of dungeon, fire and sword, O how our hearts beat high with joy Whene'er we hear that glorious word! Faith of our fathers! holy faith! We will be true to...1:36 PM in History, July 4, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 4: Catholics and patriotism
My July 4, 2010 column for Faithful Families, St. Francis deSales bulletin: July 4: How does love of country fit in with our faith? Is it okay for Catholics to be patriotic? Today seems like a good day to ask. Does allegiance to God and His Holy Church preclude...1:24 PM in Catholicism, July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Independence Day - July 4 inspiration
A stirring reminder of the meaning of Independence Day - share with your friends! Independence Day from Jamice Ivie on Vimeo....1:19 PM in History, July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Declaration of Independence - read it with your family today
(Adopted by Congress on July 4, 1776) The Unanimous Declaration of the Thirteen United States of America When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bonds which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the...1:05 PM in History, July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
July Family Resources - Know Your Country
Thanks to Right at Home - a gift to Loudoun homeschoolers, offering classes and other resources for these fabulous links:TERRIFIC LINKS FOR JULY: The Declaration of Independence Free Copy of the US Constitution Test Your Constitution IQ How Do Fireworks Work? History of Fireworks Loudoun County Fair July 26- August...12:45 PM in History, Homeschooling, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (1)
A Marine Mother's July 4 reflection
From a writer/mom of 6/friend of mine who lives in California: Freedom's Price by Marci Seither 2008 Sand blew across the parking lot. It seemed we had found the edge of the world, but for our oldest son, Nathan and the other Marines stationed there, the colorless landscape of...12:38 PM in July 4, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (1)
July 4: The price they paid
American Minute with Bill Federer July 4 The Declaration of Independence was approved JULY 4, 1776. John Hancock signed first, saying "the price on my head has just doubled." Benjamin Franklin said "We must hang together or most assuredly we shall hang separately." Of the 56 signers: 17 lost...12:36 PM in History, July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama: The Community Organizer King
Great piece referencing a must-see movie:The Community Organizer Who Would be King By Clarice FeldmanI really have to stop reading MayBee's sarcastic comments just before bedtime. She was making fun of Michelle Obama's teleprompter speech to some lady donors: "It's also pretty funny to picture them, actually sitting on a...12:23 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Ken Cuccinelli July 4 greeting
From one of my favorite defenders of the Constitution, VA Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli: July 4, 2011 Dear Friends and Fellow Virginians, 235 Years ago our nation's founders issued a declaration of independence - formally severing the bonds between the thirteen American colonies and Great Britain. So strong were our...12:18 PM in July 4, Ken Cuccinelli, Virginia | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama stimulus cost $278,000 per job
And note, these figures are from his hand-picked advisers. But even friends can do only so much to hide reality: Obama's Economists: 'Stimulus' Has Cost $278,000 per Job The stimulus is now causing the economy to shed jobs. 12:07 PM, Jul 3, 2011 • By JEFFREY H. ANDERSON ...9:59 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 3, 2011
Laura Ingraham adopts third baby
At a family reunion tonight, I heard some relatives say that Catholicism/Christianity were most compatible with the Democrat Party because we should provide for the poor. Au contraire, mes amies. "We should provide for the poor as individuals," I said. "Not be forced by the government so they can decide...11:56 PM in | Permalink | Comments (5)
July 2, 2011
July 4: Once to Every Man and Nation
Love this hymn. Jane sent it in honor of July 4: Once to Every Man and Nation Once to Every Man and Nation Once to every man and nation, comes the moment to decide, In the strife of truth with falsehood, for the good or evil side; Some great cause,...10:10 PM in July 4, Military matters, Music, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
July 1, 2011
Wash Post: 2 Pinocchios for Obama, next up $$, R&R
The Washington Post awarded Obama with 2 Pinocchios following his Wednesday press conference. You can read it at The missing facts in President Obama's news conference.Lying - even by omission - must be very bad when the Washington Post reports it.Following the press conference, Obama took off to fund raise/complain...8:41 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
How one mom decided to support Palin
One of the craftiest things the media has pulled on conservatives has been the two year media rape and torture of Sarah Palin - a painful process in which none of the Tired Old Republican Leaders stood up to defend her (don't ever forget!). Now, so many conservatives say "I...7:43 PM in 2012 elections, Media Bias, Sarah Palin | Permalink | Comments (0)
Frank Wolf: Constitution only for US law
We are blessed to have a trustworthy representative here in northern Virginia: From: Rep. Frank Wolf Date: June 23, 2011 Re: Upholding U.S. Constitutional Law I write to let you know that I am cosponsoring H.R. 973, a measure introduced by my colleague Rep. Sandy Adams (R-FL), that would make...7:28 PM in Conservatism, Virginia | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pro-Israel Bachmann lived on kibbutz in 1974
Bachmann Lived on Kibbutz, Staunchly Pro-Israel Friday, 01 Jul 2011 09:50 AM By Jim Meyers Share: For Rep. Michele Bachmann, staunch support for Israel is a personal matter: Teenage Bachmann spent a summer working on a kibbutz in Israel. The 55-year-old Minnesota Republican, founder of the House Tea Party...3:52 PM in 2012 elections | Permalink | Comments (2)
Rush Limbaugh *Two If By Tea* in Joplin MO July 4th
A couple weeks ago, Rush announced that he and his wife Catherine, in the spirit of American enterprise, had begun with an idea and seen it through every phase needed to bring it to market.Needless to say, sales are brisk. Which is especially good news because the proceeds are going...12:54 PM in July 4, Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (1)
Planned Parenthood: $60M lost in 8 states
From the Susan B. Anthony List (a worthy organization):Hello Pro-life Bloggers:It's been a while! Just to update you on the latest from the SBA List:Defunding Planned Parenthood: State by StateToday we launched our Defund Planned Parenthood State by State Scoreboard: SBA List efforts during the federal budget fight gave Planned...12:26 PM in Activism, Conservatism, Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
