December 2011
December 31, 2011
Billy Graham's Prayer for the New Year
Billy Graham's Prayer for the New Year December 30, 2011 - This prayer from Billy Graham, written for "The Saturday Evening Post" in 2008, is just as relevant this year. Help us to humbly put our hands into Your hand, and to trust You and to seek Your will for...9:53 PM in Inspiration, New Year's | Permalink | Comments (0)
New Year's resolutions - family tradition
Each week, I write a column for our church Bulletin. You can see them all at St. Francis De Sales. Last year I wrote about this Curtis tradition for New Year's Day: New Year's Resolutions New Year's is a time for resolutions. When our kids were younger, Tripp and I...7:45 PM in New Year's | Permalink | Comments (1)
Auld Lang Syne - lyrics, history
The traditional New Years Song: Auld Lang Syne (with lyrics) as sung by Dougie MacLean Auld Lang Syne is attributed to the Scottish poet Robert Burns, who in 1788 claimed to have collected the words of an old man to preserve them. You can find the original Scots lyrics and...4:07 PM in Music, New Year's | Permalink | Comments (2)
Pville Gazette: John Flannery Flim Flam
Two weeks ago, I carried a Letter to the Editor about our very own Occupy Purcellville columnist John Flannery. It seems more and more people are getting wise to the fact that the Kennedy-wannabe radical lib with weekly rants about conservatives and the "filthy rich" is really one of the...2:01 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy | Permalink | Comments (0)
Buffy Sainte-Marie on Sesame Street w/mouth bow
I was a faithful fan of Buffy Sainte-Marie back in the 60s-70s. Just discovered her appearances on Sesame Street: Sesame Street: Cripple Creek Sesame Street - Wynken Blynken and Nod...11:26 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (3)
December 30, 2011
Unclaimed property - be sure to check for yours
Rerunning this because today I found two more unclaimed property entries for Tripp - one from an insurance company that covered our business in California. The other from Paypal which was sent to an old address in Virginia. You really need to check it out - please leave a comment...10:15 PM in Practical Info | Permalink | Comments (5)
Virginia regulates abortion clinics
Gotta love Virginia!!! Common sense is the key word here. After all, if Virginia has 21 pages of regulations for barbershops, wouldn't you think that some regulations of a procedure to vacuum out a woman's womb might be in order? And it seems pretty self-damning to me that Abortion advocates...7:41 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Zooey and Joseph: What Are You Doing New Year's Eve?
Dedicated to Matt's English Muffin Emma and Matt, who this very moment is crossing the Atlantic to see her: What Are You Doing New Years Eve? by Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt HT/Emma via facebook...6:55 PM in Music | Permalink | Comments (2)
Big spender Michelle seeking $3 donations
Pretty ironic:On a $4M Vacation, Michelle Seeks $3 From Backersby Keith Koffler on December 30, 2011, 1:21 pmSpeaking from her paradisical $4 million Hawaii vacation, Mrs. Obama wants to know: Do any of President Obama's supporters have $3 to spare for his reelection?This is approximately like coming upon Warren Buffett on...6:39 PM in Michelle Obama | Permalink | Comments (0)
Planned Parenthood: 2011 worst year ever
Planned Parenthood Leaders Say 2011 Was Worst Year Ever by Jim Sedlak | Washington, DC | LifeNews.com | 12/30/11 1:23 PMTo say that 2011 has been a watershed year in the battle against Planned Parenthood is an understatement. This has been a year that has seen the effort to close...6:34 PM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (0)
Two abortion docs charged with murder
Two Abortion Docs Charged With Murder After 35 Late-Term Babies Found in FreezerDecember 30, 2011 WASHINGTON (The Blaze/AP) -- A 16-month investigation into a botched late-term abortion conducted by two out-of-state doctors that led authorities to find 35 late-term fetuses in a Maryland clinic's freezer has resulted in the arrest...6:22 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
HT/feminism: girls as "hot" commodities
Great article by Patrick Archbold at the National Catholic Register today, bemoaning the loss of innocence of girls who'd rather be "hot" than "pretty." The conclusion of The Death of Pretty: Most girls don't want to be pretty anymore even if they understand what it is. It is ironic that...5:44 PM in Culture Wars, Girls, Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 27, 2011
Catholics Come Home ads
Dear Barbara, The secular media is buzzing with positive press about the national Catholics Come Home® campaign! Click on the logos below to check out a couple of the most recent stories: Prime-time religion: Catholics to air national TV ads Roman Catholic Group Plans TV Campaign CCH was...12:23 PM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (6)
Laura Nyro: Wedding Bell Blues
Many of you may not have heard of Laura Nyro, a truly unique voice in the late 60s whose songs were covered by The Fifth Dimension, Barbra Streisand and Peter, Paul and Mary: Laura Nyro: Wedding Bell Blues Laura Nyro: And When I Die HT: Maddy, whose MP3 player is...11:48 AM in Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Ukraine children with Down syndrome need rescue
It is so beautiful to see the wave of adoption moving throughout the Christian community - with people being led to step outside their comfort zone, risk uncertain futures, and rely on God. Clearly it is the Holy Spirit that provides the inspiration, confidence and spirit of sacrifice. I am...11:25 AM in Adoption, Down syndrome, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 26, 2011
Santa dad surprises daughter at Christmas
Girl Tells Santa She Wants Dad Home From Iraq, Doesn't Know Santa is Dad...12:38 PM in Christmas, Good news | Permalink | Comments (0)
Nigerian Muslims bomb church for Christmas
The usual deadly Christmas greetings from "the religion of peace" Nigerians fear more church attacks after 39 killed Dec 26, 5:02 AM (ET) By LEKAN OYEKANMI and JON GAMBRELL MADALLA, Nigeria (AP) - At a Nigerian Catholic church where a terror attack killed 35 people on Christmas, women tried to...12:24 PM in Islam issues, Terrorism | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 25, 2011
When Love Was Born: Mark Schultz
Mark Schultz - When Love Was Born...2:24 AM in Christmas, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Flight into Egypt: John Donne
Lofty literary flight on Christmas night - from John Donne via my kids' friend Chad:Immensity, cloister'd in thy dear womb, Now leaves His well-beloved imprisonment. There he hath made himself to his intent Weak enough, now into our world to come. But O ! for thee, for Him, hath th'...2:07 AM in Art | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 24, 2011
Planned Parenthood Merry Christmas: send $$$
From my Inbox this morning - Planned Parenthood, whose founder worked tirelessly to rid the world of "undesirables" and which today protects men guilty of statutory rape, and which lies about breast exams to distract from its much more important source of revenue - abortions:Christmas is the day we remember...9:46 AM in Planned Parenthood, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
Silent monks sing Hallelujah Chorus
Silent Monks Singing Halleluijah Chorus HT: Jawan...2:16 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Nun who once kissed Elvis praying for a miracle
Great Christmas story - reminding us how radically our lives can change when the Holy Spirit calls us to a new challenge:Nun Famous for Kissing Elvis Now Praying for Miracle Published December 23, 2011BETHLEHEM, Conn. - In the little town of Bethlehem, a cloistered nun whose luminous blue eyes entranced...2:04 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama Regime Top 10 foolish quotes of 2011
Interesting to see the view from outside the US, where our media have become simply part of the regime's propaganda machine: The Obama administration's top 10 foolish quotes of 2011 By Nile Gardiner World Last updated: December 22nd, 2011 Barack Obama: quotable quotes As 2011 draws to a close, it's...1:53 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 23, 2011
Girl lost in 2004 tsunami finds family
Good news! Girl swept away by 2004 tsunami weeps after reunion with familyAPWati, second from right, poses for a photograph with her rediscovered family in Meulaboh, Aceh province, Indonesia, on Friday. The 15-year-old says she remembers her father putting her into a boat with her sister following the Dec. 26,...11:01 AM in Good news | Permalink | Comments (0)
Crystal Cathedral: Robert Schuller trusts Catholic Church
No one could have dreamed something like this would ever happen. Doesn't it sound like The Onion?Wed, Dec. 21 2011 09:29 AM EDTRobert Schuller Trusts Catholic Church With Crystal CathedralBy Luiza Oleszczuk | Christian Post ReporterThe Rev. Robert H. Schuller, founder of the historic Crystal Cathedral Ministries in Garden Grove,...10:47 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (2)
December 22, 2011
Carol of the Bells for 12 Cellos
Carol of the Bells for 12 Cellos HT: Anita...5:57 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
NORAD tracks Santa 2011
I don't know where you are with your kids and Santa. Our family didn't make much of a deal about him. Tripp dressed up in a Santa outfit and visited our children while Daddy was at work to tell them the story of Christmas. But other than that, I think...5:49 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Taylor Swift CoverGirl mascara ad yanked
Anyone else see this ad with Taylor Swift for CoverGirl mascara - the one with the fine print disclaimer: "Lashes enhanced post-production"? In case you were disturbed by the new alternate reality - cosmetics promising overhauls they admit in the next-to-nothing print cannot be delivered except by Photoshop, you'll appreciate...5:40 PM in Teens and Tweens | Permalink | Comments (0)
Michelle Duggar's letter to Jubilee Shalom
One lasting legacy of the Duggars' recent loss of their baby Jubilee Shalom is their model of the dignity and grace with which miscarriage should be treated. So often, mothers who miscarry are left to fend for themselves. Their grief is not understood. And the babies are not buried with...11:50 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (2)
Ronald Reagan 1981 Christmas address
So dignified. Simplicity rather than craft. Belief rather than cynicism. Touching our hearts. One of my big regrets is that I was a radical leftist when Reagan was in office and didn't appreciate him. I do so now. And then one of my biggest hopes is that others as deluded...10:53 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
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"....10:49 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
My heart is a manger
My column this week for The Catholic Herald: My heart is a manger By Barbara Curtis 12/21/11 Sometimes I look around at all the strong and faithful Catholic families in our church and wish I could have been brought up like that, with the love of God swaddling me not...10:10 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 20, 2011
Woodgrove's Ric Gauriloff "retires" - Loudoun Schools mum
Yes, it's certainly strange to get a robocall from our Superintendent of Schools Edgar Hatrick just a couple days before Christmas vacation to inform us that the principal of Woodgrove High School has resigned and someone has already been named to move into his place. I smell a scandal. And...8:58 AM in Loudoun County, Public schools | Permalink | Comments (6)
December 19, 2011
Athens TX Nativity rally crowd
Atheists want a Nativity taken down in TX - here's what happened: Nativity rally crowd...5:15 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
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...4:45 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Purcellville Gazette's John Flannery Flim-Flam
[Update: You can see where and how John Flannery lives - the palatial home he calls Ithaca Manor, his horses and his travels - at his website JohnPFlannery.com. This is the man who wants you to think he is part of the 99% warring against what he calls "the filthy...10:55 AM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (3)
Beatbox Nativity
Beatbox Nativity...9:23 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 18, 2011
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...10:17 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
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. Christmas Breakfast Scramble 12 eggs, beaten 1/2 c. flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt...10:11 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Thanks to our military: a Christmas poem
A Different Christmas Poem HT: Patti, mother of a Marine...10:08 PM in Christmas, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
Christmas carols 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...10:06 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Christmas ornaments - family tradition
Every year I give each of my children a special Christmas ornament. Each child also has a special box to hold his ornament collection for eleven months between Christmas trees. Some years I look far and wide to come up with individual ornaments. Some years I get a certain...10:05 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Pregnancy - total wrap body pillow
Okay, it's been a long time since I've been pregnant. Still. . . . after nine babies I guess I got used to sleeping this way. Right now I have a long pillow to prop up against, but I saw this tonight and think I am in love! Santa?...9:49 PM in Pregnancy, birth and labor | Permalink | Comments (2)
Children with Down syndrome bring joy
Children with Down Syndrome Bring Joyby Crosswalk contributor Barbara CurtisFriday, December 16, 2011"Wouldn't the world be a better place if every family had a kid with Down syndrome?" I'll never forget my 9-year-old son Matt saying this one day - really less a question than a statement of how our...2:48 PM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (2)
Warning: Sinus cleansing danger
Our family has been doing sinus cleanses for a few years and have been much, much healthier as a result. We don't use the neti pot, but the Sinus Cleanse. I know this is a small risk (so far), but we will now be using distilled water for sinus cleaning:...11:24 AM in Health | Permalink | Comments (1)
Pray for Pope Benedict XVI for Christmas
Pray for papa: Pope heads into busy Christmas season tired, weak Dec 17, 10:29 AM (ET) By NICOLE WINFIELD VATICAN CITY (AP) - Pope Benedict XVI seems worn out. People who have spent time with him recently say they found him weaker than they'd ever seen him, seemingly too tired...10:58 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Santa in Purcellville today 2-4
You can bring your camera and take your own pictures! HT: Nan...10:33 AM in Purcellville | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama class warfare backfires
The Real Sleeping Giant: Class Warfare Backfires December 17th, 2011 | Author: Rachel In America, class is a fluid concept based on merit, not aristocracy. A person with ingenuity and hard work can work their way up the economic ladder, and a person who makes risky investments or...10:29 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Twelve Days of Homeschool
Twelve Days of Homeschool HT: Chrissy...10:00 AM in Christmas, Homeschooling | Permalink | Comments (0)
Facebook humor/inspiration stream #13
My Facebook News Feed is like a river streaming so much humor and inspiration, I plan to do roundups of the best whenever I have a minute. Except for the first three, which got bumped to the top, In the random order they appeared: See all my facebook humor/Inspiration streams...9:41 AM in Facebook humor/inspiration stream | Permalink | Comments (3)
Amazon - free one-day shipping through 12/21
Isn't that cute? Just one of hundreds of products Amazon has promised for Free One Day Shipping Lots of electronics available - and some great gifts. Remember when camcorders weighed about eight pounds? And cost $800? No, you probably don't :) Anyway - just thought I'd remind you there's...9:26 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 17, 2011
Blogrescue - help for bloggers now!
I call Ed my BlogGuru. In the past six years, he has overseen the growth of my fledgling mommy blog to a thousands-of-visits-per-day site. This has meant a few major shifts to accommodate growth, all of which have been accomplished smoothly. One thing I appreciate about Ed is that when...7:42 AM in Blogging | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 16, 2011
Michelle leaves early for Hawaii - $100,000 taxpayer tab
Hypocrites! Yet another slap in the face of the beleaguered American taxpayer. All I can say is: Never forget! The high price of impatience: Michelle jets off to Hawaii with the kids for 17 day vacation before the President can leave ... at a cost of $100,000 to the taxpayer...8:12 PM in Government Corruption, Liberal Hypocrisy, Michelle Obama | Permalink | Comments (0)
Viral video: contagious laughter
From Germany - but I guess laughter is the universal language. I couldn't keep from laughing myself: Lachen in der U-Bahn - www.lachen-verbindet.de How about you?...2:05 PM in Humor | Permalink | Comments (2)
Elisabeth Elliot on Mary
The Mother of the Lord We see her first, that little Mary (may I say little? I think she was a teenager), as a simple village girl in a poor home in an out-of-the-way place. She is bending over her work when suddenly the light changes. She raises her...10:17 AM in Christmas, Elisabeth Elliot, Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (2)
Mommy Matters - Christmas joy!
I hope you all are signed up for my free monthly newsletter! If not, you can do so in my far right sidebar at the top. Here is this month's: December 2011Rejoicing AlwaysMommy Matters Dear Moms - You are busy and so am I - but I hope you have the...9:09 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
The Christmas Story - by children under 8
The Christmas Story (HD version) The Christmas Story (2010 HD version) - as told by the children of St Paul's Church. HT: New Advent, an exceptional daily round-up of news from a Catholic perspective...8:32 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
NY students suspended for Tebowing
High schoolers banned for Tebowing No running in the halls -- and no Tebowing either.That's what one Long Island administration said Wednesday when it suspended a group of high school athletes for replicating Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow's popular pose in the hallway at school.Jordan Fulcoly, Wayne Drexel and...8:19 AM in Sports, Tebow | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 15, 2011
How to tie a scarf
My daughter Sophia told me about Pinterest and I've joined - though it will take me a while to get going. I just love the visual images! This is from Sophia's board - very helpful:Source: 9gag.com via Barbara on Pinterest...1:27 PM in Fun Stuff | Permalink | Comments (6)
Spectacular Christmas Light Show
Your kids will love this: Holdman Christmas Lights 2010 Music Winter Wonderland - Alexia Phillips Amazing Grace - Yule Carol of the Bells - Monique Daniell Jingle Bells - Master Tone Music Box Dancer - DJ Schwed Wizards in Winter - Trans-Siberian Orchestra Mister Sandman - Pomplamoose...1:19 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Occupy Christmas - Eucharistic Mall Event
Occupy Christmas - Eucharistic Mall Event Love the spirit that you could feel hovering over the participants following the adoration. It would be awfully hard to go back to shopping :)...1:02 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama persecutes Catholics and conservative Lutherans
The Persecution of Religion Has BegunHow the Obama Administration is targeting Catholics and conservative Lutherans. By Russell Shaw, November 16, 2011"What the Catholic Church in the United States really needs to stiffen its backbone is a good persecution." How often, I wonder, have I heard somebody say something like that?...12:11 PM in Christian Persecution | Permalink | Comments (0)
Lego Nativity
Inspiration for your kids today? by Sean Dunn, Jr. Gotta love boys!...2:25 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 14, 2011
Reagan on compassion
"I'm sure everyone feels sorry for the individual who has fallen by the wayside or who can't keep up in our competitive society, but my own compassion goes beyond that to the millions of unsung men and women who get up every morning, send the kids to school, go to...8:43 PM in Conservatism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pro-life: changing one heart at a time
Never give up talking to your pro-abortion friends. One conversation made all the difference in this woman's life:How One Conversation Made Me Pro-Life By Kristen Walker -- December 13th, 2011, In several previous articles for Live Action, I have alluded to the fact that I used to be pro-abortion, and...8:24 AM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 13, 2011
1 Corinthians 13 - 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...10:59 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Ben Stein - A Jewish take 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,...10:53 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Holiday eating tips
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....10:28 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
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...10:26 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Dangers of "Crying It Out"
I don't always agree with Psychology Today, but this article is so right on. Anyone out there using Ezzo really needs to listen to the voices of older and wiser mothers who've said all along that by meeting your baby's needs consistently the first year, you will be be delighted...4:44 PM in Babies, Mothering | Permalink | Comments (5)
Mary's Boy Child - by Harry Belafonte
Mary's Boy Child - by Harry Belafonte...9:48 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 12, 2011
Our Lady of Guadalupe
Today is the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a beautiful part of Catholic history for many, many reasons. One is the universality of the church, and this reminder that Jesus came for people of all nationalities. Here is the story - the written record goes back to the...8:49 AM in Catholicism | Permalink | Comments (4)
Obama goes to church to prove Christian creds
You can tell it's campaign time: After Perry attack, Obama displays Christian faith byCharlie Spiering Commentary Staff Writer President Barack Obama with first lady Michelle Obama, left, and their daughters Sasha and Malia, right, walk from the White House in Washington to attend a Sunday service at nearby St. John's...8:35 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (3)
December 11, 2011
WSJ - Tim Tebow: God's Quarterback
Great role model. I can't understand - since there are many Christian athletes who thank God - why they hate Tebow so much. DECEMBER 10, 2011 Tim Tebow: God's Quarterback He has led the Denver Broncos to one improbable victory after another--defying his critics and revealing the deep-seated anxieties in...8:54 AM in Tebow | Permalink | Comments (2)
Colin Farrell - son with Angelman syndrome
Colin Farrell honored at the American Giving Awards for the foundation he created:...8:36 AM in Disabilities | Permalink | Comments (3)
December 10, 2011
For Catholics who've strayed
Catholics Come Home Curious? There's no better time than now. Click the banner below to begin your journey:...9:27 PM in Catholicism, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Christmas books for children
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...9:18 PM in Books, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
Dickens' Christmas Carol - gorgeous edition for .02!
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:...9:16 PM in Bargains, Books, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Norman Rockwell Christmas Book at Amazon for .01!
This is a beautiful hardcover edition which was the first of our Christmas library. If you are a young family, it is a wonderful tradition to have special books that come out just at Christmas. I love watching my kids get excited to see them - like greeting old...9:15 PM in Art, Bargains, 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....9:13 PM in Advent, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
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...9:10 PM in Christmas, Military matters | Permalink | Comments (1)
12 Days of Christmas for a big family
The 12 Days of a Large Family Christmas...8:53 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Hallelujah Chorus in the Food Court
Makes me cry every time - Emmanuel- God with us - even in the Food Court...9:25 AM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun homeschoolers - 12/13 basement sale
As part of our move/downsizing/preparing for the next stage of our lives, I am sorting through my homeschool materials, puzzles and games.I am planning next Tuesday 10-1 to have a pay-what-you-want sale in my basement of things we no longer need. I'd like to invite anyone interested to email me...9:02 AM in | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 9, 2011
Three new giveaways!
No comments here. Just click on my giveaway link in the left sidebar and leave a comment for any or all that you would like a chance to win!...5:52 PM in | Permalink
I'd Rather Have a Proverbs 31 Woman
New Facebook group started by a guy from Baylor University and I'd Rather Have a Proverbs 31 Woman than a Victoria's Secret ModelSome great material created and posted on the wall there - very affirming for our daughters and our sons....4:53 PM in Marriage | Permalink | Comments (0)
US: $3 million to push worldwide homosexuality
Funny how we're supposed to respect other cultures - except when it comes to birth control, abortion - and now, homosexuality.And where did anyone ever get the idea that the Constitution empowers our government to steal our money and spend it on such ridiculous nonsense?This is tyranny. Taxpayers to pay...3:35 PM in Homosexuality | Permalink | Comments (1)
S. Korea twin towers resemble 9/11
Proposed S. Korean Towers Resemble Exploding World Trade Center 1:17 PM, Dec 9, 2011 • By JOHN ROSENTHAL Single Page Print Larger Text Smaller Text Alerts The unveiling of pictures of planned luxury residential towers scheduled to be built in Seoul, South Korea, has sparked...1:53 PM in Anti- Americanism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama does Hanukkah - sorta
Obama celebrates Hanukkah at White House... TWO WEEKS EARLY? LIGHTS ALL THE CANDLES... 'We Never Need an Excuse For a Good Party'... !!!!!!!! What a jerk. There, I've said it. Yes, I have respect for the office - probably much more than the King and Queen currently lavishly enjoying...11:50 AM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pearl Harbor veteran - please comment on his story
My friend Rees Lloyd - whom I met when we worked together on a story about the American Legion's work to fight ACLU/atheist attempts to tear down Christian-themed war memorials - has a request:Comrades, Colleagues, and Patriots: Here's a respectful request: Please add a comment to the www.WorldNetDaily.com Pearl Harbor...8:52 AM in Military matters | Permalink | Comments (0)
Elisabeth Elliott on welcoming grandchildren
Rerunning this from 12/8/2005. I love the way Elisabeth Elliott wrestled with God about this and then accepted that she had been wrong: I subscribe to a daily dose of Elisabeth Elliot. Every once in a while what she says is so relevant to the things we talk about here,...8:42 AM in Big families, Elisabeth Elliot, Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (1)
A disciple of Jesus
Donna sent this to me this morning: I am part of the Fellowship of the Unashamed. The die has been cast. The decision has been made. I have stepped over the line. I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my...8:07 AM in Inspiration | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 8, 2011
Michelle's separate Hawaii flight - $100,000
The irony that Obama signed an executive order targeting excessive government air travel. Just one more Do As I Say, Not As I Do from the Imperial Presidency.From The White House Dossier: Special Michelle Hawaii Flight Would Cost Thousandsby Keith Koffler on December 8, 2011, 7:29 amPresident Obama's decision to...7:24 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Michelle Duggar has had a miscarriage
Michelle Duggar Miscarries By Alicia Dennis Thursday December 08, 2011 04:30 PM EST A day of joyful anticipation has turned to anguish for Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar. At a routine check-up Thursday to find out the sex of their 20th child, their doctor was unable to find a heartbeat...7:17 PM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (7)
Obama Kansas Roosevelt Double-Talk
I really don't feel like writing about politics right now, but you do need to be aware that Obama is growing more overt in his contempt for America, even as he blames everyone but himself for the mess he has created - his since-Day-One attack on the middle class he...12:59 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 7, 2011
The digital story of the Nativity
The digital story of the Nativity...10:29 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama lies, invokes Teddy, decries capitalism
Obama - the most corrupt president in our lifetime - who has taken millions from big corporations, paid them back with our tax dollars, and demanded more from them - pretends he is on our side: Obama says capitalism and liberty don't work Only a fool could believe this doubletalk....8:42 PM in Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Michael Moore: Wall Street owns Barack Obama
Exactly right. Obama's populist posing has no basis in reality as he has taken more from corporations than anyone could ever have dreamed of. So hoping Michael Moore will base his next documentary on our current flim-flam man: Moore: "Wall Street Has Their Man And His Name Is Barack Obama"...8:03 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (0)
Why socialism fails every time
From my Inbox this morning - HT/Becky: "SOME IDEAS ARE SO STUPID ONLY INTELLECTUALS BELIEVE THEM." George Orwell When the reward is great, the effort to succeed is great, but when government takes all the reward away, no one will try or want to succeed. An economics professor at a...7:33 PM in Patriotism | Permalink | Comments (0)
Pearl Harbor 70th anniversary
Pearl Harbor attack remembered at 70th anniversary PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (AP) -- About 120 survivors of the Dec. 7, 1941, bombing of Pearl Harbor observed a moment of silence to commemorate the Japanese attack and the thousands who lost their lives that day 70 years ago Wednesday. The moment...6:57 PM in History | Permalink | Comments (0)
Mike Tompkins - Christmas Rush
your kids will love this - funny but worthy sentiment. Doesn't it seem like more and more people are getting the message? The Christmas Rush - Mike Tompkins...6:41 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (1)
Remembering 17 siblings
Molly sent this:Winterport siblings recall the blessings of being raised among 17 children Courtesy of John RancourtThe remaining 11 children of Alice and Harry Rancourt pose for a photo in John Rancourt's home in 2001. The first row, from the left, are sisters Margruerite Arrants, Mildred Whitten, Marion Hansen, Celestia...6:29 PM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (0)
Regime: Ft. Hood Massacre "Workplace Violence"
Let's face it, folks, we have an Anti-American Regime which goes out of its way to avoid calling our enemies our enemies. To them, the Tea Party is worse than Islamic terrorists:Lord, help us!Lawmakers Blast Administration For Calling Fort Hood Massacre 'Workplace Violence' Published December 07, 2011 Sen. Susan Collins...4:28 PM in Anti- Americanism, Terrorism | Permalink | Comments (1)
In Europe, Children Growing Hard to Find
A little over a year ago, my friend Amy Owen and her family - including 5 kids then - moved to Germany because of her husband's work (this happens a lot when you live in the DC area). She just sent me some beautiful images of her new baby, explaining...3:46 PM in Big families | Permalink | Comments (17)
Christmas in public schools? Yes, we can!
Mi current column at the Catholic Herald: Christmas in public schools? Yes, we can! By Barbara Curtis12/7/11 Several Christmases ago, Sophia's art teacher gave this assignment: Make holiday posters. She also made it clear: No religion allowed. I guess it wouldn't be Christmas without the fear of a lawsuit, would...3:12 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Wayde Byard - ready for Loudoun's first snow day?
Left this at the Friends of Wayde Byard facebook page: Snow tonight? I know it hardly seems possible at 3pm when the temperature is 49 degrees. But the forecast is 1-3" accumulation and the Sheriff's Office just sent out an advisory. Hope Wayde is drinking lots of lemon juice with...3:06 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
Loudoun snow tonight: Winter Weather Advisory
So, it has been raining for over 24 hours here in Loudoun County (metro DC area). It was about 60 degrees yesterday. Right now it's 49 degrees. Our forecast is for snow tonight - 1 to 3 inches accumulation. Unbelievable. Here is some good advice from our sheriff's Office:Winter Weather...2:38 PM in Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 6, 2011
Obama's new branding: Teddy Roosevelt
Apparently the cynicism and inauthenticity of the Obama Regime knows no bounds. Making a conscious decision to reach back in history for yet another icon to identify with - following Kennedy, FDR and Lincoln - the Boy Wonder's PR Team has settled on Theodore Roosevelt. So today Obama flew with...7:14 PM in Media Bias, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (1)
Christmas Flash Mob by Journey of Faith at Galleria
December 24, 2010 - watch to the end to see the crowd moved by the spirit:...6:04 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Obama Regime wants Morning-After Pill on shelves
From The Weekly Standard: Obama FDA Considers Putting Morning-After Pill on Supermarket Shelves 11:36 AM, Dec 6, 2011 • By JEFFREY H. ANDERSON The Washington Post reports that, under President Obama and his Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, the Food and Drug Administration is considering letting "anyone of...12:57 PM in Pro-Life Issues | Permalink | Comments (3)
Loudoun woman removes Leesburg crucified Santa
Leave a comment if you'd like to thank her!...12:16 PM in | Permalink | Comments (8)
December 5, 2011
Walter Reed Navy Hospital Bible ban
Sign our petition today to ensure that Bibles and other religious materials aren't banned from patient visits at Walter Reed Medical Center December 05, 2011 Dear Barbara, The Walter Reed Medical Center is where our wounded soldiers go for their bodies to be healed, but are their souls left...8:37 PM in Christian Persecution | Permalink | Comments (0)
Leesburg Courthouse display: Santa crucified
Hate speech: This is all in retaliation for private citizens asserting their right to continue displaying a creche and a Christmas tree - which had been displayed for decades - on the Leesburg Courthouse lawn. There is a difference between freedom of expression and hate speech - also something that...6:23 PM in Christian Persecution, Loudoun County | Permalink | Comments (2)
Kidkraft dollhouse 56% off at Amazon
A reader bought this through my link yesterday (I can't see who bought stuff, but check there for ideas and bargains. Regularly 227.99 - at Amazon for 99.97 - including furniture. That's 56% off - a real bargain. And Kidkraft is a great brand - we had the Kidkraft Kitchen...6:05 PM in Bargains | Permalink | Comments (2)
World's most extravagant marriage proposal
World's Most Beautiful Marriage Proposal Maybe world's most traumatic marriage proposal, too. I know, I know, where's the spiritual element? I kinda wish they'd stopped at the proposal. But wow, Nikki must have felt like the most beautiful woman in the world....6:58 AM in Marriage | Permalink | Comments (9)
December 4, 2011
Down syndrome: siblings' input needed
I've received an assignment to write about siblings of individuals with Down syndrome - their experience growing up, how their sibling shaped their lives, what it's like today: Study: Children With Down Syndrome Bring Joy to Home 99% of parents say they truly love their son or daughter with...9:48 AM in Down syndrome | Permalink | Comments (1)
December 3, 2011
Obamas off for another vacay - 17 days in hawaii
Most of the time, we have to count on the British media to get it right about the Obama Regime and the cavalier attitude toward the Americans they were elected to serve. How many vacations did you get this year? It must be nice being President... Obama to jet off...10:20 PM in Liberal Hypocrisy, Obama Nation | Permalink | Comments (2)
Last Letter Home - American soldier in Iraq writes
Ben called today and told me one of the pieces of music he is working on right now at Eastman is "Last Letter Home," based on the words of Pfc. Jesse A. Givens. While on duty in Iraq, Givens wrote a letter to his wife and two children to be...10:09 PM in Military matters, RIP | Permalink | Comments (1)
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...9:57 PM in Advent | 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...9:53 PM in Advent | Permalink | Comments (0)
Advent hymns
I love hymns. I love the intelligence and the poetry. I love the way they give melody to our theology, voice to the longings of our hearts, and specific praise to Our Creator. People often ask how our family produced so many good singers. My answer: in the formative...9:49 PM in Advent | Permalink | Comments (0)
1 Corinthians 13 for Advent and Christmas
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...9:34 PM in Advent, Christmas | Permalink | Comments (0)
Advent music- Handel's Messiah
If you've never gotten into classical music, I can't think if a better way to start than Handel's Messiah - nor a better time to start than now. Messiah is based on the foretelling of the life of Jesus, his birth, death, and resurrection. It is composed entirely of...9:31 PM in Advent | Permalink | Comments (0)
December 1, 2011
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...9:00 PM in Christmas, Music | Permalink | Comments (0)
Kids' Christmas gifts - how to choose the best
Every year readers ask for ideas for enduring, meaningful gifts for their kids at Christmas. The first thing you need to know is that you don't have to spend a lot to impress a child. The key is understanding the things that bring children joy and that help release...8:52 PM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
The miracle of A Charlie Brown Christmas
It almost didn't happen: Charlie Brown Christmas The story of the hasty, last-minute creation of A Charlie Brown Christmas reads like one of those God's-hand-in-man's-work miracles. Charles Schultz's stubborn insistence on the aesthetic he desired - no laugh track, children's voiceovers, Vince Guaraldi score - and most of all Linus's...9:02 AM in Christmas | Permalink | Comments (2)
