Still Not Going Quietly

2012-02-09T15:43:00.004-06:00

So... election years make me CRAZY! Knitting and my kids keep me sane. Yes, even the teenagers;o) So I'm going to focus more on blogging about knitting, family and so forth. Trust me, there will still be the occasional libertarian rant but feel free to read what you like and ignore the rest.

I was trying to sort out my picture files on my computer and realized I had knit a cute little shell for Cheyenne and didn't put it on Ravelry. Or anywhere else for that matter. I don't remember any details about it now so I can't very well put it on Rav. So I'm gonna put what I remember here and if I remember which pattern it was (yes it was actually one where I followed a pattern all the way through)I'll put it on Ravelry.

I made it of Caron Spa on a size 6 circular needle. It's a 34-36" bust size. I love Spa for it's beautiful colors and drape. And it is great for any season. This is my middle daughter, Cheyenne, who will probably not appreciate the early morning hair pics being published....

2012-01-29T12:56:00.003-06:00

OCCUPY MOVEMENT IS NOTHING NEW

People think the occupy movement is something new and different and, depending on their politics, either cool as hell or idiotic. It is nothing new. In the 70s we had the hippies. They protested corporate greed and capitalist pigs too. They invaded public spaces with private behavior. They acted like the rules shouldn't apply to them because they believed the rules should be changed. Sound familiar?

At the time, hippies were eventually marginalized as foolish, self-indulgent, immature and, well, unclean. They were replaced by yuppies with their greed and polish and ambition. Hippies weren't just lazy, stupid, dirty or drug-crazed. They served a purpose in history and they had a cause worth protesting (vietnam) but a society of hippies would not last long on the evolutionary ladder. The yuppies, though they are the ones being marginalized this decade, were needed and served their purpose as well. They also had their less attractive aspects but that isn't what I'm talking about today.

Unfortunately, time and a more and more clever and far-reaching media have served to blur the image of the hippy. They've been romanticized and raised to the level of martyr. And now they are being emulated by a lost, bored and lazy generation raised on electronics and entitlements. They are looking for their "vietnam." A cause worth giving all their effort... or any effort for at all. They call themselves the 99%. So far they are FAR from actually 99%, thank God. But they are growing and it scares the hell out of me. I try to believe that social evolution will continue on its merry way and the pendulum will swing. Unfortunately, the Occupy movement has something the hippies never did and that is the internet. Media and what it is capable of has been so dramatically altered by internet and digital media delivery that I worry about how much longer and bloodier the fight will have to be to set that pendulum in the other direction. How much longer-lived and influential would the hippies have been if they had been able to spread their message the way we are able to today?

The movies and media and the softened reminiscences of many of us old-timers have made the hippies into something cool and admirable and unique. I am guilty of it myself. And there were some pretty cool hippies;o) But as a lifestyle, and in particular a lifestyle for a nation, it was not and is not practical. A socialist commune may work for a select few who are dedicated to those principles and to the others in their commune but a socialist nation is not a pretty picture. And it is certainly not an American picture!

America was founded and based on democracy, not socialism. America is about freedom, not entitlement. Freedom is not always peaceful. Freedom is not always free. Freedom has to be fought for and defended. Freedom is not always pretty. But patriotic Americans are willing to die or kick your ass to keep it. We are willing to make sacrifices and accept that we may not have everything we want to have in life if we value our freedom. We are able to be thrilled that some people can become ridiculously rich even if we haven't been able to in a FREE market. We are ecstatic that greenies can drive electric cars and stop buying water in plastic bottles and only use straight edge razors since disposable razors are adding to our carbon footprint, donchaknow. But WE DON'T HAVE TO. WOO HOO! That's what freedom is about! You can sport a bumper sticker on your Prius saying "99%" while the other 90% of us are FREE to get in our cars or our pickups with the bumper sticker saying "Don't Tread On Me" and go to work and pay taxes.

The reasons Socialism is a bad idea and won't work on a large scale over time are for another day. But here is a thought; a democratic, capitalistic society like America really isn't for everyone. It isn't the best approach for every person out there. So if it isn't the best approach for you FEEL FREE TO LEAVE IT AND GO SOMEWHERE WHERE SOCIALISM IS PRACTICED! Good luck with that.

2011-08-30T20:19:00.001-05:00

Cheyenne at the Roxy 1

Natalie | Myspace Video

2010-12-02T15:54:00.004-06:00

I haven't posted any movie reviews in quite a while so I thought I do that today. Course, I haven't posted anything in a while... another long stint without home internet access. Anyway....

I just took a sick day from work (and trust me, it was a true sick day!) followed by my actual days off so I had time to watch some movies. I watched Dear John, Remember Me and Donnie Darko. Dear John was my own choice. Just my kind of movie. Remember Me was forced on me by my son and Donnie Darko was recommended by a friend at work who has the same taste in a lot of things we watch. So, how did they stack up?

Dear John. Got it because, as I said, it seemed like exactly my cup of tea. And it was. Channing Tatum is a doll and Amanda Sayfried is gorgeous but not the boring, hollywood barbie type of gorgeous. She actually has some personality. You can imagine she would be fun to hang out with. The fact that the movie dealt with autism was a surprise to me and I was delighted with the way it was handled. It was a romance and had drama with just a touch of humor here and there which is the perfect blend for me. It wasn't nearly as predictable as I feared it would be. Okay, the end was predictable but the path to the end wasn't... completely. I would definitely watch a movie from this director again and I now join the ranks of the many females who are smitten with Channing. If you rent this movie (or buy it as I plan to) be sure to watch the extra about Braeden, the little autistic boy who plays Alan. It was cool to watch Henry Thomas in an interesting and mature enough role that I didn't sit there the whole time going, "Wow, that is the kid from ET!" Probably my favorite role in the movie was Richard Jenkins playing an undiagnosed Aspergers syndrome sufferer and the father of our hero, John. Fabulous job by an underrated actor. And I have to make note that the small role of Noodles made me sit up and take note. Well actually, it made me sit up and look him up on IMDB. Now that guy is seriously hot. I might actually have to watch an episode or two of the cop show he is on. Dang. Overall I'm gonna give this movie 5 stars. *****

Remember Me was one I planned to skip. I intended to never watch it because I had heard it was horribly sad and I don't generally do horribly sad. I am too empathetic. I end up feeling sick with misery over a stupid movie. But I was sick in bed and Cameron brought it to me and said, "You have to watch this." I had forgotten anything I had heard about it except that it had the vampire from Twilight fame in it. I had a vague recollection that it was sad but Cameron said, "Well it is a bit sad but worth it." Right. Gut wrenching is more like it. I had to watch a stupid comedy to stop feeling weepy after the horrible ending of this tear jerker. I forgot entirely that my oldest daughter, who understands my problems with reality based tear jerkers MUCH better than my son, had told me I did NOT want to watch this movie. Damn.

Don't get me wrong. It is a good movie. It sets a nice broody mood and won me over to Pattinson. I've been saying repeatedly that I am NOT a Robert Pattinson fan. I have to amend that now. I'm not a Robert Pattinson as Edward fan. Didn't buy the appeal of him in that role. In this movie he is amazing. As a devoted Lostie, I was already a fan of Emilie de Ravin. Pierce Brosnan was perfect as the cold, aloof and demanding father but it was a little hard to buy the convenient turnaround at the end. Everyone has heard the real life story of the father who wasn't in the twin towers because he uncharacteristically drove his daughter to school that day. But the sudden, heart-melting, I really want to spend quality time with my daughter and we are going to all be a much more functional family now right at the key moment was just too... well I know I'm repeating myself but... convenient to the plot. All because some mean girls cut her hair? As far as that goes, I kept wanting Emilie's character to tell little Caroline that with the short hair she looked like an adorable little Amanda Bynes. Much more flattering than the long hair anyway! And who takes their kid to a sleepover at the house of a girl with a history of teasing and bullying their child?! Really?

Anyway, I could nitpick about lots of minor story lines but the overall story, acting and directing were really wonderful. I should give this movie 4 stars but since it left me feeling literally sick to my stomach with remembered grief from one of the worst days in the world and I really wanted to kick my son's ass for making me watch it, I'm giving it three. Those are straight up for acting and directing. I DON'T LIKE REALITY BASED SAD MOVIES!! I will never watch Titanic and I will never watch Remember Me again. ***

Now, Donnie Darko. I probably shouldn't write this review yet as I fully intend to watch it at least one or two times more before I really decide what I think. Of course, I like movies that require me to do that. The ones that leave you thinking, "Did I just see what I thought I saw?" Chris from work told me he thought I would like this movie. He said it was quirky and offbeat and had to do with timetravel. He had me at quirky. A slight aside - it blew my daughters away that the strange teenager in this movie was "The Prince of Persia" LOL. Okay, the first scene was a little off-putting for me. I am a mom after all and this was one messed up family. And there were more than a few times, including after the ending, that I wondered if this was a serious drug-trip movie. And I know some people will think I am a hypocrite for not freaking out over the ending of this movie after all I just said about Remember Me. Here is the difference. Remember Me is REALITY BASED. Based on real events. And in that case, real events that I remember clearly as tearing apart the world as I knew it! This movie is anything but reality based. I was wondering a few minutes into this movie if they were going to be able to make me like or care about this guy or his family but they did. This same movie could start out as this one does and go in ten different directions so I never really copped to what was really going on ahead of time. Okay, Grandma Death tipped me off a bit. There were so many little Easter Eggs in this movie that I think the writers and creators of Lost must have studied it for inspiration. Seriously. Not to mention the time twisting aspect. Okay, I really have to go watch it again because instead of thinking of my reaction to the movie all I can think of are the questions I still have. Four stars pending further investigation. It could go to 5 or it could go to 2 or 3. We'll see. ****.... maybe.

2010-05-04T17:25:00.002-05:00

I have made some big changes in my life in the past 3 months or so. Changes I've talked about and thought about and wished for for many years. It may seem like just a surface thing... like, "Oh Natalie is finally actually exercising." But, believe me, it is more than that. The biggest change is in my head and my gut. Most of 2009 I spent sitting on my backside, feeling hopeless, feeling like a failure, feeling that nothing would ever change. I ballooned up to a really disgusting weight, my highest ever. Well, I sucked it up and made the necessary doctor's appointments, got a YMCA membership and started doing something about it. No, the doctor still isn't about to do surgery on my knee so I'm stuck bone on bone with the pain that accompanies that. I found out that my shoulder pain was from a tear in the rotator cuff. He isn't gonna fix that either. He sent to physical therapy and gave me pain medicine. The physical therapy has been great and I'm almost done with it. I have a plan in place to replace those hours with strength training once the PT is done. I have tried some cardio, which I suck at but I'll keep trying till it gets easy. Then I'll work harder. I spend about 1.5 to 2 hours 4-5 days a week working in the water. I do an exercise class and then I swim laps. The first day, I couldn't even complete one continuous lap. Now, AFTER a 1 hour water exercise class (and trust me, Kendra gives you a serious workout) I am up to 12 laps. I follow that with some water walking in the current track.

As I said, it would be easy to think that it is all just attempt number 3012 for me to lose weight, get healthier and live a more active life but the biggest change is inside me. I can't explain it. I am not the same Natalie. Join me or get out of my way. MANY years ago in AlAnon I was given a little story called, "Autobiography in 5 Short Chapters" by Portia Nelson. It made me cry because I could so see myself stuck forever between Chapter 2 and 3. When I was really on track and working the program, I lived in Chapter 3. Most times I was still floundering around making excuses and thinking it wasn't my fault, "it" being anything.

The best way I can describe the change in me lately is I've skipped straight to chapter 5 and I'm LIVING there. Hell with accepting responsibility and avoiding the damn hole. I'M TAKING ANOTHER STREET ENTIRELY.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY IN FIVE SHORT CHAPTERS
by Portia Nelson

I

I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk
I fall in.
I am lost ... I am helpless.
It isn't my fault.
It takes me forever to find a way out.

II

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don't see it.
I fall in again.
I can't believe I am in the same place
but, it isn't my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.

III

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in ... it's a habit.
my eyes are open
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.

IV

I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.

V

I walk down another street.

2009-09-03T14:32:00.005-05:00

President Obama says we should judge him by the people he surrounds himself with. Wish granted. His appointee John Holdren in his own words:

“Individual rights must be balanced against the power of the government to control human reproduction. Some people—respected legislators, judges, and lawyers included—have viewed the right to have children as a fundamental and inalienable right. Yet neither the Declaration of Independence nor the Constitution mentions a right to reproduce. Nor does the UN Charter describe such a right, although a resolution of the United Nations affirms the “right responsibly to choose” the number and spacing of children (our emphasis). In the United States, individuals have a constitutional right to privacy and it has been held that the right to privacy includes the right to choose whether or not to have children, at least to the extent that a woman has a right to choose not to have children. But the right is not unlimited. Where the society has a “compelling, subordinating interest” in regulating population size, the right of the individual may be curtailed. If society’s survival depended on having more children, women could he required to bear children, just as men can constitutionally be required to serve in the armed forces. Similarly, given a crisis caused by overpopulation, reasonably necessary laws to control excessive reproduction could be enacted.

It is often argued that the right to have children is so personal that the government should not regulate it. In an ideal society, no doubt the state should leave family size and composition solely to the desires of the parents. In today’s world, however, the number of children in a family is a matter of profound public concern. The law regulates other highly personal matters. For example, no one may lawfully have more than one spouse at a time. Why should the law not be able to prevent a person from having more than two children?”

And on forced abortions etc:

“One way to carry out this disapproval might be to insist that all illegitimate babies be put up for adoption—especially those born to minors, who generally are not capable of caring properly for a child alone. If a single mother really wished to keep her baby, she might be obliged to go through adoption proceedings and demonstrate her ability to support and care for it. Adoption proceedings probably should remain more difficult for single people than for married couples, in recognition of the relative difficulty of raising children alone. It would even be possible to require pregnant single women to marry or have abortions, perhaps as an alternative to placement for adoption, depending on the society.”

So, as for me, I judge this man a complete and total nutcase who has no business being free on the streets! And I judge any president who would appoint him to an important position in the federal government... the SAME! How about you?

2009-08-28T18:07:00.001-05:00

I would never have believed I would hear an official of the United States Government praising Fidel Castro... and being applauded! Seriously? SERIOUSLY?! Are you f'ing kidding me??? I'll give you a quote followed by a link to Michelle Malkins blog with a video. California! WTF?? You seriously elected this wench?!

It was just mentioned to me by our esteemed speaker, “Did anyone say anything about the Cuban health system?”
And lemme tell ya, before you say “Oh, it’s a commu–”, you need to go down there and see what Fidel Castro put in place. And I want you to know, now, you can think whatever you want to about Fidel Castro, but he was one of the brightest leaders I have ever met. [APPLAUSE]
And you know, the Cuban revolution that kicked out the wealthy, Che Guevara did that, and then, after they took over, they went out among the population to find someone who could lead this new nation, and they found…well, just leave it there (laughs), an attorney by the name of Fidel Castro…

http://michellemalkin.com/2009/08/28/race-baiter-democrat-rep-diane-watson-praises-cuban-health-system-castro-guevara-who-kicked-out-the-wealthy/

Sorry for the lack of link. Blogger still isn't letting my links go through. And yes, if you look back through my posts, I most certainly know how to post a link but it just isn't working lately. And yes, for the record, it is starting to piss me off!

2009-08-26T15:01:00.006-05:00

I just read an excellent article on personal responsibility (foreign concept, I know) by Thomas Sowell. You can read it here. Okay, for some Blogger reason the link won't show up so just copy and paste this: http://jewishworldreview.com/cols/sowell082509.php3

Here are a couple of quotes to whet your appetite:

"Americans can have the best medical care in the world without having the best health or longevity because so many people choose to live in ways that shorten their lives."

"...most discussions of what is wrong [with public education] leave out the fact that many such students may have chosen to use school as a place to fool around, act up, organize gangs or even peddle drugs."

2009-08-17T17:47:00.002-05:00

Finally, an honest politition;o)

I've known for years that politicians don't really give a $h!+ what their constituents think. They pander to you to get your vote and then do what the hell they want to. At least this outstanding paragon of politics is being honest.... Ummm, hello NY? What the hell were you thinking? This guy looks and talks like a used car salesman! I expected him to say, "I've got the goodes" at any moment. But no, all he says is that he will vote however he likes no matter what his constituents want. Oh, and that he won't have a townhall meeting because "every time we have one of those... we lose 3 million supporters to our cause." Well, he got that part right!

2009-08-15T19:40:00.002-05:00

Demagogue: a leader who makes use of popular prejudices and false claims and promises in order to gain power

Or here is the definition from another dictionary: a person who tries to stir up the people by appeals to emotion, prejudice, etc. in order to win them over quickly and so gain power

Sooo, in a joint press conference with the Mexican President and the Canadian Prime Minister, Potus was asked if he thought he would be able to keep the promises he's made to Pres Calderon on amnesty for illegal aliens considering how much trouble he is having with the healthcare bill and his slipping numbers.

He gave, of course, a long, rambling response but I thought this part was pretty telling:

“This is going to be difficult; it's going to require bipartisan cooperation. There are going to be demagogues out there who try to suggest that any form of pathway for legalization for those who are already in the United States is unacceptable."

This set off quite a complicated set of thought processes for me. First off, I thought, "Hmmm, demagogues eh?" Now, if we look at the definitions I've listed... who does that sound like? Is it just me or has the president just called his opponents a bunch of democrats? Puts a whole new twist on the pot calling the kettle black doesn't it? And NO that wasn't a racial remark, Nancy! It's just a saying. And doesn't democrat come from the same root word? Nancy Pelosi painting the citizens practicing their basic freedom of speech at townhall meetings as "astroturf" and "carrying swastikas" doesn't smack of demagoguery at all!

Okay, sorry, the English major in me kicked in for a minute there.

Now, I am slightly cheered by this particular story overall. Confused? Well, so am I most times. But see, unlike my husband and most of my friends, I am not opposed to "any form of pathway for legalization for" illegals. I don't have any problem all with decent, hard-working people from other countries coming here. I think they enrich us as a country. I don't think it should be automatic for those who happen to have lucked into their illegal perch during the Obama regime. I don't think it should even be easy. But I do think it should be possible for an illegal who really wants to be here for the right reasons and is willing to work hard, learn the language and follow the rules to attain citizenship, pay their taxes and take on the rights and responsiblities the rest of us carry.

I don't, don't, don't believe that we should have to cater to their language, culture etc but rather they should have to adapt to the one they have chosen. We should not feel guilty or apologetic for not having signs, documents etc in their language. And I personally think that the drive to make more things available in Spanish is playing favorites and eventually we would be charged with not making those documents available in ________ (fill in the blank - every language in the frickin' world!)

So I am a tiny little bit cheered by the fact that a plausible compromise on something the Potus has proposed doesn't terrify the crap out of me. And the fact that he realizes that he is slipping and that everything he wants isn't going to fall into his lap simply due to his fabulousness, well, that cheers me more than a tiny little bit8O)

2009-08-07T10:34:00.005-05:00

THOSE ANGRY MOBS ARE NOT REAL. IGNORE THAT ELEPHANT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROOM. PAY NO ATTENTION TO THE MAN BEHIND THE CURTAIN.

You know, you really have to feel for those poor Dems on recess having to deal with angry mobs. Now, the poor ol' AARP reps are having to deal with them too.

Breitbart.tv Ã‚Â» AARP Organizers Cancel Ã¢Â€Â˜Listening SessionÃ¢Â€Â™ After Participants Refuse to Ã¢Â€Â˜Keep Their Comments QuietÃ¢Â€Â™

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Dang those retirees. Should we really be letting them wield canes?

The mainstream media has assured us, however, that those mobs are really just a bunch of elitists gathered up and bused in by the GOPs rich friends to act angry. So, no fears, the Dems are free to dismiss them entirely.

I am not rich; I'm not an elitist and I have serious concerns about the GOP but the Dems are right about one thing. I AM ANGRY!!! I never thought I would see the day when elected officials in this country would openly, blatantly ignore a huge public outcry like this from their constituents. It makes me feel scared and hopeless and afraid that it is going to get much much uglier before it gets better. But more than any of this, it makes me ANGRY! I am terribly afraid that push is going to come to shove in this country and that we are going to see internal conflict the likes of which noone now alive has ever seen here in America. LA after Rodney King? Nothing compared to what is coming all over the country. I am not advocating it but I see it coming. See that light approaching? It is a freight train headed this way people. What can we do to try to avert it? Any ideas please PLEASE let me know. Here are the only things I know to do right now:

1) Cancel your AARP membership NOW. This is the only language AARP will understand. AARP condoning this bill is a HUGE feather in their cap.

2) Figure out who is running for election in 2010 in your area who might actually have the cojones to vote against ZerOs socialist and marxist policies and VOTE FOR THEM. Campaign for them. If we vote back in the same Obidiots then we deserve what we get folks.

3) Phone, write, email, fax... whatever floats your boat but at least get it on record to every member of Congress that we DON'T for one second buy it that the people who vote for a bill as far-reaching and financially humongous as this one have to make decisions so quickly that they don't have time to read the bill. TELL THEM THAT IF THEY HAVEN'T READ IT AND DON'T UNDERSTAND THE FULL IMPLICATION OF EVERY SECTION THAT THEY BETTER THE HELL NOT VOTE FOR IT OR THEY WILL BE REPLACED!!!

2009-08-04T11:56:00.001-05:00

Yet more invasion of privacy in "Healthcare Reform" bill

Right now government officials cannot come into your home and interfere with the parenting of your children unless there is reason to believe that you are neglecting or abusing them. That is all getting ready to change. How many times have you had a discussion with someone about child-rearing practices and just had to agree to disagree? Not everyone approaches child-rearing the same way. Does it seem that it is becoming PC to consider raising children in the Christian faith as "brainwashing" and requiring your children to attend church as unreasonable? Ever heard stories of people's children being taken away from them by overzealous social workers when there was no abuse going on? (If you haven't, you need to get out more.) If any of those things have bothered you, then this should curl your toes. I got this from NHELD.

Did you know? One of the proposals for health care revision may lead to increased accusations of parental abuse and neglect regarding the upbringing and education of your child.

The House version of the health care legislation, H.R. 3200, entitled, “America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009”, sponsored by Congressmen John Dingell, Henry Waxman, and Charlie Rangel, among others, contains many provisions that are worthy of questioning, not the least of which is Section 440. That section is entitled, “Home Visitation Programs for Families with Young Children and Families Expecting Children.”

The title, itself, gives one pause for concern.

This section of the bill authorizes the provision of federal money to be given to the states on the condition that the states will develop certain programs that include “voluntary home visits” by government officials.

The visits by government officials will be through the implementation of programs that, among other things:

“ adhere to clear evidence-based models of home visitation that have demonstrated positive effects on important program-determined child and parenting outcomes, such as reducing abuse and neglect and improving child health and development”;

“establish appropriate linkages and referrals to other community resources and supports”;

“monitor fidelity of program implementation to ensure that services are delivered according to the specified model”;

“provide parents with-- knowledge of age-appropriate child development in cognitive, language, social, emotional, and motor domains…
· knowledge of realistic expectations of age-appropriate child behaviors;
· knowledge of health and wellness issues for children and parents;
· modeling, consulting, and coaching on parenting practices; and
· skills to recognize and seek help for issues related to health, developmental delays, and social, emotional, and behavioral skills…”

Those are all laudable sounding goals. But is that the job of the government, or the parents?

What happens if the government worker comes into your home, sees what you are doing as a parent, doesn’t like it, tells you to change it, and you disagree with the opinion of the government worker?

There is a provision in the bill for the information gathered during the home visits to be shared with other government agencies.

There is another provision in the bill for the state to report back to the federal government on what was learned during the home visits, including information about the people who were visited.

Who believes that information learned during the home visits will not be shared with child protective services agencies, especially when one of the goals of the program is to reduce child abuse and neglect?

Who believes that a parent’s right to educate their child at home will not be questioned by government workers who may have a vested interest in seeing the public, i.e., government, school system continue to thrive?

In case you think that this is some insignificant section of a very large bill, and won’t really matter, consider this - the government will be expending on only this one small section of the bill the following amounts:

..(1) $50,000,000 for fiscal year 2010;
..(2) $100,000,000 for fiscal year 2011;
..(3) $150,000,000 for fiscal year 2012;
..(4) $200,000,000 for fiscal year 2013; and
..(5) $250,000,000 for fiscal year 2014.

Apparently, the program is designed to expand in the future. How many homes will be visited ultimately?

Don’t take our word for it. Go read the bill for yourself. Your legislators certainly won’t be reading it before they vote on it. Somebody should read it, after all. Parents need to know what their government is proposing, how the government very soon, could be inside your home. If states accept this money, they will be obliged to conduct the “voluntary” home visits. Do you want government officials coming to your home, telling you how to parent, and reporting what you do to other state and federal agencies? If not, you better act now before this bill becomes law, and before your state officials decide it’s a great way to get more money from the feds. For the sake of your children and your grandchildren, NHELD strongly suggests you read this bill, and any others being proposed, then act to safeguard your rights. The text of the bill can be found at http://www.opencongress.org/..bill/111-h3200/text

2009-07-14T17:24:00.003-05:00

ARE YOU FREAKIN' KIDDING ME????

A lot of things going on nowadays scare me. I am very worried for the future of my country. But I think this scares me more than just about anything I've heard.

In Rhode Island, at the "oldest 4th of July parade in the country," a Tea Party group had a float in the parade. They agreed to follow the rules of the parade and even went further. Other floats were allowed to throw lollipops and so forth from their floats but this group was told they couldn't throw tea bags "because they might put out someone's eye." Okay, well, they want to follow the rules and not violate any safety issues so they don't throw tea bags or anything else.

Next, they want to play PATRIOTIC music so they ask for a PA system. The other floats were given a PA if they asked for it but this group was denied. Instead, they were given a bullhorn. Seriously! I'm not making this up! My imagination couldn't have come up with stuff this crazy!! Oh, and let's not forget that they were told they couldn't have people on the float dressed as Indians either. Other floats... yeah you get the idea.

So, parade day comes and our intrepid band of patriots are dressed in their patriot outfits to celebrate the founding of this nation. I guess a little while into the parade, they are not only kicked out of the parade but BANNED FOR LIFE because a fellow not even on the float was walking alongside the float and handing out subversive materials to the crowd. Yup, that dirty rotten scoundrel used our country's celebration to hand out... wait for it... Pocket copies of the Constitution Bill of Rights!!!

A lot of things worry me lately but I have reached a new level of fear for our future. If this was published in a fictional book ten years ago, it would have seemed riduculously far-fetched. Now it is our reality. Welcome to Obamaland. Are you happy now?

2009-07-01T16:35:00.002-05:00

INTRODUCING.... MY NEW GRANDSON SAWYER!!!

2009-06-01T15:07:00.004-05:00

Interesting that the Russians have got more of a clue about what is happening than half of the American people. Sheeple indeed....
The following is from Pravda, the English version obviously. Pravda is a Russian news source. Couldn't seem to find the byline so I can't give you an author but here is a link to the actual article:

It must be said, that like the breaking of a great dam, the American decent into Marxism is happening with breath taking speed, against the back drop of a passive, hapless sheeple, excuse me dear reader, I meant people.

True, the situation has been well prepared on and off for the past century, especially the past twenty years. The initial testing grounds was conducted upon our Holy Russia and a bloody test it was. But we Russians would not just roll over and give up our freedoms and our souls, no matter how much money Wall Street poured into the fists of the Marxists.

Those lessons were taken and used to properly prepare the American populace for the surrender of their freedoms and souls, to the whims of their elites and betters.

First, the population was dumbed down through a politicized and substandard education system based on pop culture, rather then the classics. Americans know more about their favorite TV dramas then the drama in DC that directly affects their lives. They care more for their "right" to choke down a McDonalds burger or a BurgerKing burger than for their constitutional rights. Then they turn around and lecture us about our rights and about our "democracy". Pride blind the foolish.

Then their faith in God was destroyed, until their churches, all tens of thousands of different "branches and denominations" were for the most part little more then Sunday circuses and their televangelists and top protestant mega preachers were more then happy to sell out their souls and flocks to be on the "winning" side of one pseudo Marxist politician or another. Their flocks may complain, but when explained that they would be on the "winning" side, their flocks were ever so quick to reject Christ in hopes for earthly power. Even our Holy Orthodox churches are scandalously liberalized in America.

The final collapse has come with the election of Barack Obama. His speed in the past three months has been truly impressive. His spending and money printing has been a record setting, not just in America's short history but in the world. If this keeps up for more then another year, and there is no sign that it will not, America at best will resemble the Wiemar Republic and at worst Zimbabwe.

These past two weeks have been the most breath taking of all. First came the announcement of a planned redesign of the American Byzantine tax system, by the very thieves who used it to bankroll their thefts, loses and swindles of hundreds of billions of dollars. These make our Russian oligarchs look little more then ordinary street thugs, in comparison. Yes, the Americans have beat our own thieves in the shear volumes. Should we congratulate them?

2009-05-19T15:12:00.004-05:00

“What grade is your daughter in?"

Why must people become so wrapped up in their own mindset, their own frame of reference that they can't see that there could be any other way of truth and value? My mom used to say, “Their mind is made up, don't confuse them with facts.” As a homeschooler, I encounter people like that all the time, although not nearly as often as I used to. When I started homeschooling 16 years ago, it happened daily but nowadays it is more like a few times a year. Of course, if I go to the NEA website, it happens much more frequently;o)

Here's what got me to thinking about this subject; someone asked me what grade Harmoni was in. Simple question, right? But is it? My answer was, “She isn't.” Completely bumfuzzled them. How I answer this common question depends a lot on who is asking and why... and my mood. Some people might get, “Well, lets see, she is 12 so I guess that is about 6th or 7th grade, right?” To some I would say, “Well, it depends on which subject you are talking about; anywhere from 5th grade to college.” But the real, true answer is, “She isn't.” Hello? Homeschooler!

People don't seem to understand that the system most of us were raised in isn't the only way. The more you diverge from traditional “public school” methodology, the more difficulty people have accepting it. There are even a lot of homeschoolers who look down their noses at anyone who doesn't use desks and textbooks and gradebooks with a red pen. I have tried to explain to some people (the ones who were worth the effort) that grade level is simply a useful construct for the public school system to function. (At least that is an arguable point; I won't go into why I don't really believe that it is in this post.) But what does “grade level” mean in real terms? Of what use is it to a homeschooler unless they are basically doing school at home? Grade level is an arbitrary label applied to make things easier for school administrators. Period. I have exactly two students at this point in time. I manage to keep things rolling without those labels. The only reason I could have for using them is to compare my children with the children of other people who are around the same age. That serves no useful purpose to me. I am much more concerned with whether or not my girls are setting and reaching goals in a relevant and timely manner.

I don't assign grade levels to my girls. We figure out what our goals are. We ask ourselves what useful and worthy things are there to learn? “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.”[1] We ask what things will make us feel culturally literate and what things will move us toward our goals. Then we work on achieving those goals. At a certain point, usually the early to mid-teens, getting into college hopefully becomes one of those goals. (Bear in mind that I have already graduated two homeschooled kids as well as one who went through public school.) At that point, we start looking at what is required to achieve that goal. The materials we use may have “grade levels” attached but that still has very little meaning to us in any real and useful way.

Here's an example. Gini is 15. She does not enjoy algebra. She and algebra have a hate-hate relationship. She mastered all the basics of arithmetic and some pre-algebra but when she hit algebra, she stuttered to a stop. She hasn't progressed much mathematically since she was about 13. Two things have happened to start her engine again. First, her little sister has caught up to her and is still going strong. Awkward! Second, she started thinking about going to college. And she doesn't just want to go to any old local college where we could help pay her way. No she wants to go to BYU Hawaii. Big dream. Big money. She better get one heck of a good SAT score. We looked up some information about what level of math she would have to master to get the kind of SAT score she would need to get into BYU Anywhere and especially to qualify for some kind of scholarship. I mean, have you looked at out of state tuition costs??? Anywhere, much less Hawaii???? Well, I have told them to shoot for the stars....

Now, please notice; did grade level come up in that topic at all? No. Did it need to? No. She needs to master a couple more levels of Algebra as well as some more advanced Geometry and Trig. And she needs to do it in the next year or two. Is she trying to go from an 8th grade level to an 11th grade level in a year and a half? No, she is learning a logical sequence of math skills that she needs in order to get a really good score on a specific test. Did I mention that she is interested in Veterinary Science? Yeah. Math and science heaven also known as pre-vet. (By the way Gini, OSU ROCKS for Vet Science!)

And, for the record, I have actually sat in classes at Oklahoma State University next to people who were functioning and getting by even though I knew for a fact that their math skills were still at an "8th grade level". Were they still "in 8th grade?" I tutored for my work-study money. I'm not making this up. The public schools are graduating people with less math skills that Gini has right now. Worse, in my opinion, is the fact that they are graduating people who can't outread the average ten year old and don't know the names of all the continents. So grade level begins to mean even less in that light, eh?

Now because I know this will be a question in the minds of some people, yes, I could have pushed her and prodded her and punished her through Algebra. After all, it was done to me. But I chose instead to have faith in her and in her Father's plans for her. I knew that when she came to realize that the math mattered that she would learn it much more quickly and joyfully than she would if I forced her into it. And our home and relationship would be more joyful as well. How many moms describe their relationship with their 15 year old as “joyful”? Well, I do. We have a really wonderful, loving, and yes, joyful relationship. And, guess what, I also have no doubt that she will go to college. Whether or not finances will allow her to go to Hawaii I can't say; that is several years away in a very uncertain economy. She understands that. She knows that she may end up at OSU or even local community college if finances dictate that. But I have no doubt that she will master the math now that she has set her mind to it and neither does she. With no clue whatsoever what grade level she is on, she will master Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry. And she will take the SAT by storm. And even if she is a “year late” taking the SAT and even if she has to settle for OSU (my alma mater), she will become a fabulous veterinarian. She certainly has a gift with animals. Oh, and they won't care what grade level she achieved either;o)

[1] from 13th Article of Faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

2009-05-17T15:05:00.004-05:00

Here Here Mr Webster!!
from: Speeches and Forensic Arguments By Daniel Webster:
"There is no usurpation so dangerous as that which comes in the borrowed name of the people. If from some other authority or other source prerogatives be attempted to be enforced upon the people, they naturally oppose and resist it. It is an open enemy and they can easily subdue it. But that which professes to act in their own name and by their own authority; that which calls itself their servant although it exercises their power without legal right or constitutional sanction requires something more of vigilance to detect and something more of stern patriotism to repress and if it be not seasonably both detected and repressed then the Republic is already in the downward path of those which have gone before it."

"There are men in all ages who mean to govern well, but they mean to govern. They promise to be good masters, but they mean to be masters."

Just because one is elected to office doesn't mean that we the people will stand for being ruled unconstitutionally by them. Public officials who were elected by the due processes set down by the Constitution might do well to honor and uphold that Constitution rather than scorn it and undermine it.

Note: Italics my own.

2009-04-12T12:21:00.003-05:00

Do you ever have conversations in your head? I hope I'm not just giving away the fact that I'm certifiable... I was thinking I might need to break down and go to the doctor which anyone who knows me can tell you, I really, really hate to do. So I was imagining how the conversation with the doctor would go; you know, what he would ask and how I would answer. See, I have, or supposedly have, who the hell knows really, Myasthenia Gravis. Tumor in my thymus gland, unexplained muscle failure, extreme fatigue, eye weakness, trouble swallowing... fun stuff like that. Getting plenty of sleep is important for me and I just haven't been able to lately. Now, I hate to take meds almost as much as I hate to go to the doctor so I really don't know if I'll even ask about sleep aids but I was imagining the conversation as sort of a test run I suppose. So, are you under extra stress these days Natalie?

As an aside here, my doctor is such a sweet man. I'm not trying to give him a bad rap. I don't like or trust the profession overall and consider it a flawed system, kind of like with teachers and the public school system. There are some wonderful teachers out there but... that's another blog;o)

So... I finally come to my point. Extra stress? Are you kidding me? People with illnesses that is exacerbated by stress are screwed these days boy! If you aren't feeling stress these days then you either live in a cave or a cloud of sweet denial and/or ignorance. I literally fear for my country and for the future of my children and grandchildren. I haven't felt this much fear for my country since September 11, 2001. And I think we are in greater danger now than then. Kind of like the difference between a wolf being attacked and jumping up prepared to fight back and a docile little lamb being attacked and, well... dead meat. The really disturbing thing is that this time the danger is within. And it wears a suit and a big $h!t-eating grin. And its followers trip along after it with blank eyes and big smiles, nodding "Yes, oh mighty and wise one, yes!" The only hope I have is that a few here and there will come out of the fog and realize that they've followed it to the edge of a mighty cliff and they'll begin to yell and shake those around them to wake them as well. I pray for that every single day and night and convincing myself for a few sweet hours that we are still in His hands is the only way I get any sleep at all.

Stress? I only have the same stress that everyone else who loves this ccountry and the beliefs that it was founded on has. God bless this poor, misled country. Even the unfortunate fools who really think that spending trillions to help get us out of debt is a good idea. Even, nay especially, the poor idiots who think the best way to protect us from criminals with guns is to take the guns away from all the good guys. God bless us all with a quick awakening, hopefully in time to keep this country from ceasing to exist as a free republic.

2009-03-16T16:29:00.001-05:00

Boy, this one really says it all. Amen brother.

This is well worth the read

“I’m Tired”

Robert A. Hall

I’ll be 63 soon. Except for one semester in college when
jobs were scarce, and a six-month period when I was
between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I’ve worked,
hard, since I was 18. Despite some health challenges, I
still put in 50-hour weeks, and haven’t called in sick in
seven or eight years. I make a good salary, but I didn’t
inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get where I
am. Given the economy, there’s no retirement in sight, and
I’m tired. Very tired.

I’m tired of being told that I have to “spread the
wealth around” to people who don’t have my work ethic. I’m
tired of being told the government will take the money I
earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too
lazy or stupid to earn it.

I’m tired of being told that I have to pay more taxes to
“keep people in their homes.” Sure, if they lost their
jobs or got sick, I’m willing to help. But if they bought
McMansions at three times the price of our paid-off,
$250,000 condo, on one-third of my salary, then let the
leftwing Congresscritters who passed Fannie and Freddie
and the Community Reinvestment Act that created the bubble
help them—with their own money.

I’m tired of being told how bad America is by leftwing
millionaires like Michael Moore, George Soros and
Hollywood entertainers who live in luxury because of the
opportunities America offers. In thirty years, if they get
their way, the United States will have the religious
freedom and women’s rights of Saudi Arabia , the economy of
Zimbabwe, the freedom of the press of China, the crime and
violence of Mexico , the tolerance for Gay people of Iran ,
and the freedom of speech of Venezuela . Won’t
multiculturalism be beautiful?

I’m tired of being told that Islam is a “Religion of
Peace,” when every day I can read dozens of stories of
Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and daughters for
their family “honor;” of Muslims rioting over some slight
offense; of Muslims murdering Christian and Jews because
they aren’t “believers;” of Muslims burning schools for
girls; of Muslims stoning teenage rape victims to death
for “adultery;” of Muslims mutilating the genitals of
little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qur’an
and Shari’a law tells them to.

I believe “a man should be judged by the content of his
character, not by the color of his skin.” I’m tired of
being told that “race doesn’t matter” in the post-racial
world of President Obama, when it’s all that matters in
affirmative action jobs, lower college admission and
graduation standards for minorities (harming them the
most), government contract set-asides, tolerance for the
ghetto culture of violence and fatherless children that
hurts minorities more than anyone, and in the appointment
of US Senators from Illinois . I think it’s very cool that
we have a black president and that a black child is doing
her homework at the desk where Lincoln wrote the
emancipation proclamation. I just wish the black president
was Condi Rice, or someone who believes more in freedom
and the individual and less in an all-knowing government.

I’m tired of a news media that thinks Bush’s fundraising
and inaugural expenses were obscene, but that think
Obama’s, at triple the cost, were wonderful. That thinks
Bush exercising daily was a waste of presidential time,
but Obama exercising is a great example for the public to
control weight and stress, that picked over every line of
Bush’s military records, but never demanded that Kerry
release his, that slammed Palin with two years as governor
for being too inexperienced for VP, but touted Obama with
three years as senator as potentially the best president
ever.

Wonder why people are dropping their subscriptions or
switching to Fox News? Get a clue.. I didn’t vote for Bush
in 2000, but the media and Kerry drove me to his camp in
2004.

I’m tired of being told that out of “tolerance for other
cultures” we must let Saudi Arabia use our oil money to
fund mosques and madrassa Islamic schools to preach hate
in America , while no American group is allowed to fund a
church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to
teach love and tolerance.

I’m tired of being told I must lower my living standard
to fight global warming, which no one is allowed to
debate. My wife and I live in a two-bedroom apartment and
carpool together five miles to our jobs. We also own a
three-bedroom condo where our daughter and granddaughter
live. Our carbon footprint is about 5% of Al Gore’s, and
if you’re greener than Gore, you’re green enough.

I’m tired of being told that drug addicts have a
disease, and I must help support and treat them, and pay
for the damage they do. Did a giant germ rush out of a
dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their
noses while they tried to fight it off? I don’t think Gay
people choose to be Gay, but I damn sure think druggies
chose to take drugs. And I’m tired of harassment from cool
people treating me like a freak when I tell them I never
tried marijuana.

I’m tired of illegal aliens being called “undocumented
workers,” especially the ones who aren’t working, but are
living on welfare or crime. What’s next? Calling drug
dealers, “Undocumented Pharmacists”? And, no, I’m not
against Hispanics. Most of them are Catholic and it’s been
a few hundred years since Catholics wanted to kill me for
my religion. I’m willing to fast track for citizenship any
Hispanic person who can speak English, doesn’t have a
criminal record and who is self-supporting without family
on welfare, or who serves honorably for three years in our
military. Those are the citizens we need.

I’m tired of latte liberals and journalists, who would
never wear the uniform of the Republic themselves, or let
their entitlement-handicapped kids near a recruiting
station, trashing our military. They and their kids can
sit at home, never having to make split-second decisions
under life and death circumstances, and bad mouth better
people then themselves. Do bad things happen in war? You
bet. Do our troops sometimes misbehave? Sure. Does this
compare with the atrocities that were the policy of our
enemies for the last fifty years—and still are? Not even
close. So here’s the deal. I’ll let myself be sub je cted
to all the humiliation and abuse that was heaped on
terrorists at Abu Grab or Gitmo, and the critics can let
themselves be sub je ct to captivity by the Muslims who
tortured and beheaded Daniel Pearl in Pakistan , or the
Muslims who tortured and murdered Marine Lt. Col. William
Higgins in Lebanon, or the Muslims who ran the
blood-spattered Al Qaeda torture rooms our troops found in
Iraq , or the Muslims who cut off the heads of schoolgirls
in Indonesia , because the girls were Christian. Then we’ll
compare notes. British and American soldiers are the only
troops in history that civilians came to for help and
handouts, instead of hiding from in fear.

I’m tired of people telling me that their party has a
corner on virtue and the other party has a corner on
corruption. Read the papers—bums are bi-partisan. And I’m
tired of people telling me we need bi-partisanship. I live
in Illinois , where the “ Illinois Combine” of Democrats
and Republicans has worked together harmoniously to loot
the public for years. And I notice that the tax cheats in
Obama’s cabinet are bi-partisan as well.

I’m tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and
politicians of both parties talking about innocent
mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful mistakes, when we
all know they think their only mistake was getting caught.
I’m tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or
poor.

Speaking of poor, I’m tired of hearing people with
air-conditioned homes, color TVs and two cars called poor.
The majority of Americans didn’t have that in 1970, but we
didn’t know we were “poor.” The poverty pimps have to keep
changing the definition of poor to keep the dollars flowing.

I’m real tired of people who don’t take responsibility
for their lives and actions. I’m tired of hearing them
blame the government, or discrimination, or big-whatever
for their problems.

Yes, I’m damn tired. But I’m also glad to be 63.
Because, mostly, I’m not going to get to see the world
these people are making. I’m just sorry for my
granddaughter.

Robert A. Hall is a Marine Vietnam veteran who served
five terms in the Massachusetts state senate. He blogs
atwww.tartanmarine.blogspot.com
<http://www.tartanmarine

2009-02-06T12:11:00.005-06:00

Okay this one is going under "things that make me want to puke".

Jane Fonda is being honored by Barbara Walters as part of "100 Years of Great Women". WTF??? Are you kidding me? What about this woman is great? Barbarella? Her exercise videos? Or could it be the time she spent giving aid and comfort to the enemy at the "Hanoi Hilton?"

Now, I am 46 years old. I was just a little kid during the Vietnam War. I don't pretend to understand all the politics. But I understand young men giving everything, many quite literally giving their lives to do what they had been brought up to believe was their duty. Did really bad, wrong things happen on both sides? Yes, that has been made pretty darn clear. But is it still treason to give aid and comfort to the enemy? Last I heard it was. It is such a sign of the Obamaland New World Order that a woman like this one could be honored in this way. Not that I am surprised at Bawbawa; she is not exactly a paragon of conservative thinking, but come on! How can anyone hear the accounts of the torture, mistreatment and death of American men that went on there and then look upon that woman with anything but disgust. While young American men were suffering yards from her, suffering in ways most of us can thankfully barely even imagine, she was schmoozing and chatting up their captors. Below is an excerpt from a description of her visit by a man who WAS THERE.

From 1963-65, Col. Larry Carrigan was in the47FW/DO (F-4E's). He spent 6 years in the'Hanoi Hilton',,, the first three of which hisfamily only knew he was 'missing in action'.His wife lived on faith that he was still alive.His group, too, got the cleaned-up, fed andclothed routine in preparation for a 'peace delegation' visit. They, however, had time and devised a plan toget word to the world that they were alive and still survived. Each man secreted a tinypiece of paper, with his Social Security Numberon it , in the palm of his hand.

When paraded before Ms. Fonda and a cameraman, she walked the line, shaking each man's hand and asking little encouraging snippets like: 'Aren't you sorry you bombed babies?' and 'Are you grateful for the humane treatment from your benevolent captors?' Believing this HAD to be an act, they each palmed her their sliver of paper. She took them all without missing a beat. At the end of the line and once the camera stopped rolling, to the shocked disbelief of the POWs,she turned to the officer in charge and handed him all the little pieces of paper.

Three men died from the subsequent beatings. Colonel Carrigan was almost number four but he survived, which is the only reason we know of her actions that day.

Enough said? Actually no but I'm trying to keep my rants somewhat brief and to the point so there ya go. I'm off to use some mouthwash. A lot of it.

2009-01-04T20:22:00.003-06:00

This will be a very brief rant. Two things that make me just sick. First, people acting like Obama is the second coming. My gosh people, WAKE UP! It terrifies me to even wonder how long it will take before most of these people wake up and realize where this road has taken us.

The other is all the hype about how wonderful we are as a country because we have elected a black president. I hate bigotry as much as anyone else and I rejoice at signs of progress. I mourn some of the things in our nations past. And if we had elected a black president, such as Colin Powell or someone equally qualified, dignified, intelligent etc, I would find it worth rejoicing too. But folks, get a grip, OBAMA IS NOT BLACK!!!! He is 1/16 black, half white and the rest is ARAB. If you want to be accurate, or taken seriously for that matter, at least get it right. Right smack in the middle of the war on terror we have elected an ARAB president with big time Muslim ties and ties to radical anti-American groups as well. Dark skin does not equal black.

2008-12-29T17:18:00.002-06:00

Whoever controls the children owns the future. Hitler knew it, the humanists know it and the modern left extremists know it.

My homeschooling friend, Liz E., sent me a link to a very interesting article and video at WorldNetDaily. It was in reference to a website called www.ExodusMandate.com and to a call that is being put out to Christians to pull their children out of government run schools. The video especially was very interesting. Voddie Baucham, a minister and author of the book, "Family Driven Faith" mentioned that children spend 14000 seat hours in school from K-12. Fourteen thousand hours! He said, "Whoever controls those 14,000 hours controls our childrens' worldview." That is pretty powerful. Baucham also quoted Charles Potter, a signer of "The Humanist Manifesto: "What can theistic Sunday School, meeting for an hour each week, do to stem the tide of a five day program of humanistic teaching?" Not much. That is what the humanistic, atheistic popular culture pushers are counting on.

And MAKE NO MISTAKE folks. The public schools are absolutely in the business of humanistic teaching. There are still those who want to keep their heads in the sand and think that their school is okay or that their children will follow their example no matter how many hours they are exposed to a pervasive culture of humanistic views and condemnation and ridicule of Christian views and teachings. An adult would have a hard time maintaining their beliefs if surrounded day in and day out, all day long by authority figures who communicate with everything they say and do that their beliefs were naive and somehow ridiculous, oh and hateful, Christian beliefs are hateful too doncha know. It would be extremely difficult for an adult to do and yet we expect it of little children from the age of 5! No, wait... we put them into headstart and 4 year old Kindergarten nowadays so make that from the age of 3. We are, hopefully and prayerfully, training them up in the way they should go but they are NOT TRAINED YET. They are so teachable in those early years. It is a beautiful thing how teachable a little child is... until you consider what they are being taught.

This video, "The Call to Dunkirke" was a very straight-forward, pull-no-punches challenge to Christian parents. Let's face it, the public schools are very tolerant places... to everyone except Christians. The mention of Jesus is taboo, kids can't say a prayer over their lunch, they sure to heck can't read their Bible in study hall. Nowadays, they can't even make signs that say, Merry Christmas or sing Silent Night in the "Holiday" program. The songs relating to Santa and lots of gifts are fine, I'm sure.

I about choked and then cried out aloud "Amen!" when Minister Baucham said, "...the first place we need to march is right out the front door of those Christ dishonoring, academically inferior, soul-killing government indoctrination centers!" Wow. The days of homeschooler apologetics is over folks. It's time to put it plainly and truthfully. Public schools are not doing the job they spend millions and millions of dollars to purportedly do. The only thing they are really efficient at is indoctrinating the children in the mores and morals (or lack thereof) of popular culture. I am very proud to say that my 2 youngest girls never stepped foot into a government run classroom and as long as America is still the land of the free, they never will.

Reflecting on all of this has made me aware of how thankful I am for the relaxed days of learning and teaching and growing with my girls. Those 14,000 hours are spent in an atmosphere of love and faith and learning. I've thought before about how people are losing more and more of their children's time to the government nannies. I watched a video about the "two million minutes" kids spend in high school and got to thinking that if my kids were in public school, I would be in their company for maybe 3 or 4 hours a day M-F. And honestly, those are some of the busiest hours of the day in most households. The hour or so getting everyone around to go to school and work in the morning and the hours from 5 or 6 pm to bedtime getting supper made and eaten and baths and everything ready for the next day. How much of that time is spent conveying our deeply held beliefs about God and country?

In comparison, the breakfast hour is very relaxed around here and yes, we absolutely do talk about things like freedom and faith every single day. The dinner hour to bedtime is pretty busy around here too, but that's okay because there were preceded by several hours of reading and writing and discussing things at our leisure. Mr Potter was correct folks. Like it or not, a few hours a week of our good example is not going to compete with 40 or more hours a week of being completely submerged in a humanist atmosphere. It just is not. There are some blessed families who will pull their kids through the fire with diligence and faith but I'm not up for playing russian roulette with my childrens' futures. How about you?

2008-12-20T15:27:00.005-06:00

I just finished a book called "The Flowers" by Dagoberto Gilb. I didn't particularly like it but it did get me to thinking. (Uh oh.) The book was sort of a rambling, pointless exploration of the life of a latino kid in Los Angeles. It takes place immediately before and during the Rodney King fiasco. It is apparently supposed to explore race relations in the area/time and the affects of prejudice and so forth but what kept striking me is that if most of the inner city kids have no more of a moral compass than this kid then we are all in a world of hurt. And the really horrible part is that I have a feeling that it was probably a pretty true rendering of the heart and head of a basically decent but lost kid.

This kid wants to be a good person but has literally not been taught how. He has been raised in the age of no absolute truth therefore no absolute right or wrong. A hot older girl comes onto you, of course you make out with her. Her husband isn't going to be home until much later. A man you don't like leaves money laying around (in his home) of course you take it - he deserves it and besides you have a right to some of the nicer things in life too! Someone offers you a beer.... You get the idea.

How many kids, latino, white, black, grey or green are being brought up exactly like this kid. They're told to be a good boy but they aren't told exactly what that means. If we say, "Ricky isn't a good person because he uses drugs" the world tells us that Ricky isn't "wrong" or "bad", he is a victim of ___ fill in the blank. (And that's just the part of the world that isn't just telling us that Ricky is cool or Ricky is just exercising his right to choose his own "truth".) Hillary's "village" has tried desperately to make us feel guilty for daring to do what parents, and specifically American parents have done for centuries; teach our children our own beliefs and world view. Yes, I want my children to think for themselves when they are grown but they have to have solid roots and a solid foundation to start with. Asking an adult to untangle the complicated mess of philosophy, politics and religion is one thing. Expecting a child to do so is ridiculous.

People, wake up. There is right and there is wrong. There is truth and there are lies. Teach these to your children. Teach them to make decisions about the things that are not absolute based on the things that are. When they are older, they will figure out that others have different ideas of what those consist of and as adults with a strong sense of who they are and what they are, they can make decisions as to their own views. The key is that they can make those judgement calls and lifestyle decisions as adults. Adults who know that it is important to stand for something. And that some things are true always and some things are wrong... always.

2008-12-18T14:26:00.003-06:00

Okay, here is rant number one. We'll call it a mini-rant since it will be pretty short and sweet. Ummm, well short anyway.

I recently got behind a very expensive sports car in traffic here in Tulsa USA. It sported a bumper sticker that I am proud that the little blond driver has the right to sport. It said, "Feeling blue in a red state." Yes, Oklahoma was one of the very few (I believe Alaska was the only other) 100%, every county, RED state in the election. (I knew I liked Alaska8O)

I am also very proud to know that in this great country (so far anyway) I will also have a perfect right to sport my new bumper sticker once I can get some printed. It will say,

"Feeling blue in this red state??? Feel free to MOVE."

I LOVE OKLAHOMA!!!

2008-12-18T13:31:00.006-06:00

Some big things have happened since I last abandoned my blogging post...

Bonni is engaged! She will be marrying a really awesome man named Gerome on March 1!!! They are crazy in love and so right for each other. So she is right in the throes of wedding planning, family blending (he has a really sweet little boy of 6 named Caleb... so now we have 3 boys!), and home remodeling. Yup, right in the middle of wedding planning she took on a complete overhaul of her bathroom and that was after redoing all the hardwood floors in her home! YUP she is certifiable... or she soon will be. Enjoy the pics!

2008-04-22T13:20:00.005-05:00

This is a video of Cheyenne singing a song called "Selfishly" she wrote when my Mom (her grandma) passed away. She says this song was a gift because it came to her completely written. It is a beautiful song. This performance is totally a capella and she is at the Roxy Theater in Muskogee Oklahoma.
The other video available on the same page is Cheyenne singing another song she wrote called "Not Afraid of Love" at the same show.
This material is copyright protected. Please do not use without permission from the owner.
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=32807218

2008-04-07T17:31:00.002-05:00

This just cracked me up! This is a quote from Sandy Wiseheart, editor of the Knitting Daily newsletter:

"The ONE exception to the Animal Fibers Are Candidates For Felting rule is silk. Silk comes from silkworms, and I would argue that worms are not animals, they are worms, thus: bugs. Silk is not worm hair. Silk is extruded from the worm; silk starts out as a liquid. (Ahem. Use your brains, here, folks: "extruded" plus "liquid" equals...oh yes. That's what silk is. Hardened Bug Extrusion. Very pretty and wonderful hardened bug extrusion, it is, too.)"

Now, I LOVE silk but somehow, I don't think I'll think of it quite the same now that I fully realize that it is basically... wormsh*+. Doh!

2008-04-01T14:44:00.004-05:00

I got this in an email forward from a good friend. I found this more than just a little disturbing. I love Oprah's good works and her love for others but she has such a widespread influence that can also do much damage. Use of bold and italics are my own. Those are the most "are you kidding me" moments.

Oprah on Religion: Check out 'A Course in Miracles' in Wikipedia.

Oprah Winfrey, beginning January 1, 2008, on her daily radio program will offer a year-long course on the New Age Christ , in a lesson a day and completely cover the 365 lessons from the Course in Miracles 'Workbook.'Listeners will be encouraged to buy A Course in Miracles for the year-long course, and an audio version, recited by Richard (John Boy Walton) Thomas will be available on compact disc. Those who finish the Course will have a wholly redefined spiritual mindset-a New Age worldview that include the beliefs that there is no sin, no evil, no devil. A Course in Miracles teaches its students to rethink everything they believe about God and life, and, bluntly states: 'This is a course in mind training' and is dedicated to 'thought reversal.'

The Course in Miracles -in reality- is the truth of the Bible turned upside down.Oprah told her television audience that Williamson's book, A Course in Miracles was one of her favorite books, and that she had already bought a thousand copies and would be handing them out to everyone in her studio audience. Oprah's endorsement skyrocketed Williamson's book to the top of the New York Times bestseller list .

A Course in Miracles is allegedly a 'new revelation' from 'Jesus' to help humanity work through these troubled times. This 'Jesus'-who bears no doctrinal resemblance to the Bible's Jesus Christ-began delivering channeled teachings in 1965 to a Columbia University Professor of Medical Psychology, Helen Schucman.One day Schucman heard an 'inner voice' stating, 'This is a course in miracles. Please take notes.' For seven years she diligently took spiritual dictation from this voice that described himself as 'Jesus.'Here are some quotes from the 'Jesus' voice of A Course in Miracles :
'There is no sin . . . '
A slain Christ has no meaning.
''The journey to the cross should be the last ' useless journey.''
Do not make the pathetic error of 'clinging to the old rugged cross.''
'The Name of Jesus Christ as such is but a symbol... It is a symbol that is safely used as a replacement for the many names of all the gods to which you pray.'
'The recognition of God is the recognition of yourself.'
'The Atonement is the final lesson he [man] need learn, for it teaches him that, never having sinned, he has no need of salvation.'

Popular author Wayne Dyer told his PBS television audience that the brilliant writing' of A Course in Miracles would produce more peace in the world.The Course in Miracles-based book, Forgiveness, continues to be sold in Robert Schuller's Crystal Cathedral bookstore as Schuller prepares to host a January 17-19, 2008, 'Rethink Conference' at his Crystal Cathedral.

2 Timothy 3: 1-5 (KJV) reads as follows:"1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come."2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,"3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good," 4 Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;"5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

"It's not surprising at all that Oprah Winfrey is supporting Barak Obama!!! Christians.....MUST Take heed!!And PLEASE pass this one on......if you never forward anything else!

Love of Christ and humble awe of his sacrifice are the underlying foundation of ALL my beliefs as a Christian. When someone denies Christ or the atonement, it just completely breaks my heart.

2008-03-30T21:44:00.003-05:00

I can't believe Ryley is 7 months old - almost 8!! How did that happen?

2008-01-17T09:33:00.001-06:00

This is Cheyenne and Ryley in the new rocking chair that was handmade by Great Uncle Hubert. I need to get a picture of just the chair too because it is just beautiful but mainly, Rob wanted to give Hubert a pic of Cheyenne rocking the baby in it.
Oh and you can't see them really well but those boots Ryley is wearing are John Deere boots that Aunt Bonni got her for Christmas8O)

2008-01-15T14:14:00.000-06:00

Puppies, puppies, puppies! Princess last litter (ever, I assure you - my girl is getting too old for this and so am I;o) was a beautiful bunch of pups. There were 10 of them plus 1 stillborn. Everyone who has ever met Princess wants a Princess puppy so finding homes for them was no problem at all. Harmoni (in stripes) and Gini (in orange) named the males for King Arthurs knights of the Round Table and the females for midieval/fantasy princesses: Galahad, Lancelot, Gawain, Tristan, Bors and Dagonet for the males and Guinevere, Arwyn, Eowyn and Aria for the females. Ten points for whoever can tell me the source of all the female names8O)

2008-01-10T23:15:00.000-06:00

A quick note to all my charity knitting minded friends. An epal has decided to send "Yellow Ribbon Hats", roll brim baby hats with a little top knot, to as many of our troops babies as she can. Gives a whole new meaning to the "til they come home" yellow ribbons. Just think of those mommies and daddies overseas seeing all their little ones (and maybe some spouses and siblings wearing their yellow "ribbons". I think it is a terrific idea so I've pulled out my yellow yarn and my needles and I'm stitching along. Want to join in? She has details (and a pattern if you need one on her blog. Here's a link:
http://yellowribbonhats.blogspot.com/
Or, if you are on Ravelry, she has formed a group called (wait for it...) Yellow Ribbon Hats;o)

2008-01-04T15:50:00.000-06:00

SOCIALIZATION AGAIN... AND AGAIN AND AGAIN AND....

When I first began homeschooling in 1992, people often expressed doubt about my sanity. Can you really teach your own child? But you didn't finish your degree! Boy, I'd go crazy if my kids were all home all the time!!! I was made to feel like there was something wrong with the fact that I loved being with my children and that I was arrogant to think I could handle the education of my (then) 8 year old son. Well, I figured I managed third grade just fine so it was worth a try;o) Actually, that is a whole, long 'nother story. Nowadays there are few who really question whether or not homeschooling can turn out well educated people; it has been proven time and again that it can and does. My topic today is socialization.I doubt there is a homeschooler on the planet who hasn't been asked, "Aren't you worried about socialization?" Frequently it is asked in a genuinely concerned tone while at other times it is more of an accusation. It took years for me to get through that question without flinching.I went through phases. At first, I would be intimidated. I would fumble around talking about how hard I was going to work at making sure Cameron was exposed to lots of activities with other kids. Then came the defensive/annoyed phase. Oh for pete's sake; you don't really think that kids are gaining anything valuable inthat area in public school do you? Puhlease! Lately, though, I think I have evolved. By golly, I may get all mature and stuff yet;o) Actually, what I got was educated on the subject.Hmmm, educated; yes, I learned something. I read and studied the writings of many different people on different sides of the education question. I studied the roots of American public education and its goals. And I didn't take a class to do it; I did it on my own because I had a desire to understand the subject. But I digress;o) Nowadays when I am asked about socialization, I ask a question of my own. What, exactly, do you mean by socialization? I ask this question in all sincerity; I'm not being sarcastic or snotty. The definition of socializationis thus:socializationA noun1 socialization, socialisation, acculturation, enculturation; the adoption of the behavior patterns of the surrounding culture[from WordReference.com]May I also submit the definition of socialism:socialismA noun1 socialism: a political theory advocating state ownership of industryNow, the American education system was based on the Prussian system which was unabashedly formed to create good little socialist citizens. Noone pretended that independent thought or individuality was of any importance whatsoever. True academics were discouraged except for an elite few - about 8% of the children. Might socialization viewed in this light be seen as advocating the "state ownership" of our children? When we also consider the atmosphere and "behavior patterns" found in most public schools today, if I am asked if I wish my children to be encultured to the behavior patterns of the average public school, I answer no without apology.The thing I've come to realize is that most people mean something entirely different. And if they ask the question sincerely, I am happy to discuss it with them. What most people are concerned about is that kids who don't go to public school will never learn a) how to get along with their peers and b) to deal with adversity. I'll deal with these one at a time.First, we have getting along with peers. Well, I suppose we have to define peers first.peern 1: a person who is of equal standing with another in a group[syn: equal, match, compeer][from dict.die.net]Okey-dokey. Next, we must ask ourselves who are our child's peers? As far as their age-mates in the public schools, suffice it to say that my children are, thankfully, not of equal standing with them. They really feel very little in common or comradeship with many of those kids. Is that bad? Nope. Thank you Jesus. If there are age-mates around who share their values and morals, they are more likely to find them at church or at interest based activities such as leadership clubs, 4-H, scouting, rodeos, drama and improv troupes and singing groups among many others, not to mention the many sports and interest groups formed especially for homeschoolers.But are peers necessarily age-mates? Again, nope! I love being around homeschooled kids. When they are young, they are quite likely to be very exuberant and energetic. In other words, they would probably drive a classroom teacher crazy. But they are so much closer to what children really should be. Children are built to learn by doing and while on the move. But, again, that is another subject.As they get a little older, homeschoolers are just as likely to identify with elderly neighbor who teaches them to tie flies as they are the skateboarder on the next block. I've sat in quilting bees with grandmothers, young mothers and homeschooled kids. They chatted and had a blast. Do you think the public schoolers would consider this cool? Probably not. But who is better "socialized" in terms of society and the world?There is a misconception that young homeschoolers are never exposed to anyone other than the people in their parents' church. I find this to be very rarely true. We are devout Christians but we are friends with people who are Muslim, Pagan, Jewish etc. There are many different "peer groups" out there. I think the tragedy is that the average public school student is given such a narrow view of what his should be. Most public schooled kids are into their own little clicks of kids who are their same age, race, religion, economic background, etc. Who is better"socialized" in terms of a country commonly referred to as a melting pot?The second concern out there is that homeschooled children will not learn to deal with adversity. This is the one that leads to such brilliant observations as, "Kids will never learn to say no to drugs if they don't go to school where the drug dealers are" and "he'll never learn to stand up for himself if he never deals with the bullies in school." Alrighty then. I firmly believe that if I raise my child to love and respect his fellowman and to expect the same and to know that he deserves the same - as any child of God does - then when he is confronted with adversity, he will deal with it in a mature and responsible way. Period.We put these kids out there on their own for so many hours of their day from such a young age (and getting younger every year - 3 year old kindergarten anyone? Oh wait, that is called Head Start) that many of them become beaten down and confused before they ever reach an age or maturity level sufficient to stand for their convictions. By the time they go to school, do their homework, eat their supper and bathe, their parents don't have any time with them. So how are they to instill all the confidence, hope, faith and trust that they need to deal with those issues? We are, in essence, turning our children over to the teachers. There are many wonderful people in the teaching profession but conservative or individualistic values are given no quarter in public schools so parents who hold those values dear are fighting an uphill battle to pass them on. So the kids are left with confusing, conflicting views at a very young and impressionable age. Trial by fire is not a great philosophy when dealing with young children's lives.I saw a woman on Oprah one day who had seen the devastating effects of the public school attitude toward peer relations and bullying. Her son had been bullied for years, very badly at times. The school just seemed to think that the boy needed to learn to deal with it. The woman came in one day and found her son dead at his own hand. He had blown his face off with a gun. She said, "his outside finally matched the way he had been feeling on the inside all those years." How horrifying. But I will never forget what she said when Oprah asked her if there was anything she wished she had done differently. She said she wished she had taken him out of the school. She didn't really realize that she even had that right.So is socialization a problem that homeschoolers need to address? No, socialization is an issue that every parent had best give some serious time and thought to if they want their children to be "encultured to adopt the behavior patterns" of the kind of people they want their children to be. And you might want to take a long hard look at the culture that exists in their school. It is a whole different world than it was even ten years ago. Is it a culture that you wish your child to become encultured to? If not, do you really want them spending a minimum of 40 hours per week immersed in it?

2008-01-04T15:49:00.001-06:00

THAT'S OUTRAGEOUS...

...or is it? I am open to discussion on this one. A Catholic School in Detroit has banned MySpace for their students. Sounds good to me! I really don't think that any sort of blogs or "social spaces" have any place at school. But here is the kicker: the students will be suspended if they are caught using MySpace at school or at home! My initial reaction to that is that it is patently absurd. And wrong. And dangerous precedent. My ONLY hesitation is because it is a Catholic School.I can't stand the idea of schools, or any other public institution trying to dictate the way that parents raise their children. I am NOT a subscriber to Hilary Clinton's "Village" raising my child. Thanks, but... umm NOT!!! Most of the "village" nowadays is.... let's just say, not what I want for my kids. And guess what, I still have the right to choose what I want my children to be exposed to in this country, thank you very much. My child is not the property of the state or the republic or any other institution. I do have the right (and the responsibility) to raise my child to the best of my ability with my world view. I personally believe that a really good, thinking parent will, as the child becomes able to assimilate it, present the alternatives and encourage the child to make his own responsible, informed choices. But I don't have the right to force every parent to do so. Amish can teach their children that being Amish is the only right way. The Catholics can do the same. We LDS can also teach that ours is the truly right way. The kids can then grow up and use the thinking skills and spirit that their maker gave them to decide that their parents are full of it. After they turn 18;o) I am not, of course, addressing so-called parents who abuse or neglect their children in a criminal way. Different subject altogether. I am under the working assumption that we are talking about responsible parents with different opinions and world views.How does all this apply to a MySpace ban? My kids are not allowed to use MySpace while they are underaged. I have the right as a parent to ban it. But I just don't see that it is ANYONE ELSE's right or privilege or responsibility to allow or disallow it. My quandry is that I do believe that private institutions such as private schools, churches, the boy scouts or what have you should have the right to have standards of behavior that are required to participate in them.So, I guess that my bottom line is that I believe that this school is misguided and is addressing a valid problem in an invalid, ineffective way but I guess they have the right to do it. And, were I a parent at that school, I would have to seriously consider the school's mission and methods.

2007-12-25T17:34:00.000-06:00

YES, VIRGINIA, THERE IS A SANTA CLAUS

Exactly 110 years ago, 8-year-old Virginia Hanlon wrote to the (old)New York Sun to settle a question about whether Santa Claus exists.Many of her friends told Virginia that the answer to that question is,"no."Times have changed and newspapers, such as that version of the Sun,have come and gone. But the answer, published in 1897 by Sun editorialwriter Francis P. Church, is timeless:

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except what they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else as real and abiding. No Santa Claus! Thank God! He lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

2007-12-22T20:24:00.000-06:00

Every blade of grass and twig completely encased in solid ice.

2007-12-22T20:17:00.000-06:00

This is where the electric meter used to be and the meter where it landed. Plus the actual power line that used to be attached to the meter now lying in the middle of the yard. OG&E turned the power back on to our neighborhood a few days later leaving us with a live power line lying in our back yard. Good thing that Bonni knows an electrician or we'd have been quite a bit more than 8 days without power.

2007-12-22T20:11:00.000-06:00

Scenes from an ice storm - December 2007 - Bristow Oklahoma

2007-12-21T13:43:00.000-06:00

Hey, Scrooge McNat here. I did get one little boost to my holiday spirits yesterday morning. I got up and Cheyenne was here, dancing around the living room with little Ryley, singing Christmas songs to her while Ryley gazed up adoringly at her with her bright blue eyes. It was a really sweet moment. I have missed hearing her beautiful voice. Even if she had a cold and was just singing softly to the baby, it did my heart good.

2007-12-21T13:32:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had one of those weeks... um months... and months.... when you feel like you are in a never ending cycle of crisis and chaos? You don't dare say, "what next" for fear you'll find out? You are beginning to think there really is something to that whole "Law of Attraction" crap and you are on the wrong side of it? Yeah.

Here I am again just before Christmas, sitting here alternately crying and just wanting to, thinking, "Damn, I really didn't pull it out. I'm not going to be able to give my loved ones anything for Christmas unless I just flat refuse to pay the rent and buy groceries. What? You say I bring this on myself? I've been married to this man for over 20 years and hoping each year that he won't withdraw into a little incommunicative shell of wounded little passive/aggressive boychild by November 30th is getting sillier and sillier each year? If I just accepted that he is going to be unsupportive and ... just a huge pain every December, and just start planning for Christmas from around March then I wouldn't be in this fix? Is that what you think? I should count my blessings that nowadays it is just December that he goes over the edge instead of from early October on? Well... just... shut up.

2007-11-29T13:59:00.000-06:00

Here is a little teaser from Harmoni's book. I have left her spelling and usage errors in since we haven't "edited" this section yet. I use her mistakes to teach grammar, spelling, etc.

ch 18 THE DUEL

As they disapeared Katie felt a pang of sadness and regret. As she turned to find Bobby she ran into jennifer. "Jennifer, have you seen Bobby?"she asked.

"Yes he's in the practice ring." Jennifer replied.

"Thank you".

She ran down the hall, she ran until she came to a dead end. "What...what is happening?" she asked herself.

"It is simple,"came familiar voice.

"Mike"she whispered.

"yes, thats right katie, I did this."

"why?"

So we could have a private fight."

"Alright, we will,"

"Good, get her a sword."

Clank. She turned around and there he was, just standing there wearing the false kings symbol. She took a deep breath and picked up the sword. You can do this Katie, you can.

Now, this is an 11 year old who didn't learn to read on her own until she was 8 1/2. She loved being read to, still does, but she just didn't care about reading. She was much more interested in numbers and music so I left her alone. Just when Dad and I were beginning to feel our commitment to following her natural learning rhythms, she decided she was ready to read on her own. Within a year, she was reading everything in sight up through junior high level. I really think her primary motivation for wanting to read was because she had all these amazing stories in her head and she wanted to be able to get them written down. Don't get me wrong, she doesn't write like an adult. But she sure writes like a pretty darn clever and imaginative 11 year old8o)

And while we are on the subject of Harmoni, the kid is growing like Jack's beanstalk!! She is now 5'7" and is outgrowing her size 12 shoes! I'm so sick of her having to wear ugly old mens' socks that I've decided to knit her some pretty socks. Socks are not my favorite thing to knit but by golly my little girl is going to have some socks that look like little girl socks once in a while!

2007-11-21T14:03:00.000-06:00

I have a new favorite quote. I heard it on, of all things, Men in Trees! Now, I love Men in Trees but it is usually a pretty light diversion, not exactly deep, kwim? But this past episode, a character named Jerome had sort of an epiphany I suppose about who or what he had let himself become. It showed him looking at pictures of himself as a young man looking very successful and happy with important people. He is currently the town character that sits around the bar making pithy remarks. Follow me? Anyway, after his epiphany or whatever, he is sitting at a bookstore in a suit, all shaved and cleaned up and reads the following quote to a lady:

"The greatest loss of all, the loss of oneself, happens very quietly in the world as if it were nothing at all. No other loss occurs so quietly." ~~Kierkegaard

That hit me like a ton of bricks. In the middle of this light, fun show I was suddenly reflecting on how true that was. Nuff said lest I go on for days. Keep me as well as ol' Jerome (or his archetype) in your prayers that what was lost may be found. And may you all pay attention to who and what you are. Don't let it slip away. Be the person you truly mean to be.

2007-11-07T16:32:00.000-06:00

Ryley's first Halloween. She was totally, seriously NOT impressed. Trey and Braiden had a great time. But then, they got to eat their candy... Mommy and Daddy took all of Ryleys8o) Gini opted not to go this year. She is 13 and I figured it was her call. Harmoni probably looked 13 to people (the kid is 5'7"!!) but she is just 11 and I guess she is now the last trick or treater amongst my kids. Unless you count Bonni (the one in the hat); she and her friends trick or treating was on a whole different level8O

2007-10-24T09:58:00.000-05:00

Here are some of the portraits we had done at JC Penney. Ryley was one month old.

2007-10-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

Left to right: Rob, Natalie, Cameron, Stefanie, Marilyn, Bill.
Cam and Stef Just Married! Sapulpa Oklahoma Courthouse, October, 9, 2007

2007-08-25T19:32:00.000-05:00

HERE SHE IS... RYLEY BROOKLYN... ISN'T SHE ADORABLE!!!!

2007-07-28T21:34:00.000-05:00

AN UPDATE ON ME AND A MOVIE REVIEW OF "FRACTURE"

I haven't posted in a while because I have been so discouraged by my difficulty in getting my picture posting problems solved:( I got an expensive digital camcorder that also takes stills only to find that it costs a mini fortune to get set up to upload from it to the computer. I am pretty much back at square one. But, on the upside, I'll be able to get tons of video of the new baby when she gets here. Cheyenne is due in only 3 1/2 weeks!

I have been having a really bad time lately with my MG symptoms. Plus, my left knee has been giving me severe pain for weeks. I went to the ER for something unrelated and they ran tests on the knee to make sure there were no blood clots (like my right leg has). No blood clots but apparently my knee is "bone on bone" and I'm s'posed to see an orthopod for it.

I'm working really hard at getting healthy these days. I am eating right but getting the exercise is tricky in my sorry condition. So far, I am just trying to do aquatic exercise in my little pool for at least 30 minutes a day. When I see the doc, I'll ask him what is okay for me to do. I just started a little over a week ago and I've lost 3.5 lbs. It's a start!

I went to the movies with Cheyenne and Bonni yesterday. We planned to see Pirates 3 but it didn't work out for us. We saw Fracture instead. It stars Anthony Hopkins (first rate by any standard) as a very wealthy and brilliant man who discovers that his young and beautiful wife is cheating on him. He plans and executes the "perfect murder". He shoots his wife in the face and then makes sure that the only officer admitted to the scene is Detective Nunally (played to moody and haunted perfection by Billy Burke). He turns over his gun and admits to shooting his wife and knowing that it was wrong. Only when Nunally turns to recover the body of the victim does he discover that it is his lover "Mrs Smith".

At this point, Ryan Gosling, as a very ambitious Asst D.A. is pulled into the maniac's clever web. He is poised to move on to a lucrative private practice but must first win this "open and shut" case to maintain his perfect record. Uh-oh. The ensuing cat and mouse manage a trois among the murderous genius, the grieving cop and the driven attorney is absolute movie magic. Oh, did I mention that wifey was not dead but only in a vegetative state?

If you love thrillers and edge of your seat tension without all the gore and serial killers in horror movies, you will love this. Ninety percent of the "action" in this thriller is in the mind. Which is just how I like it.

I have only 2 minor complaints about this movie. One, I had a really hard time "buying" Ryan Gosling as an ambitious ADA. Others may not but I did. Two, I wish the wife had a bigger role in the movie because I love Embeth Davidtz and believe her to be one of the most under-appreciated actresses around. Those are minor beefs about a very worthy movie. I recommend it to anyone who likes a good suspense yarn.

Bottom Line: 4.5 stars

2007-06-25T22:55:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of my latest FOs. At least the ones I have decent pictures of. Since it takes an act of Congress plus approximately $1000 to connect my vid cam to the computer, I guess I am still going to need to replace my digital camera. Aargh!!! Anyway, here is Harmoni in her new top that I made based on a design in an old magazine. I just changed it up a bit. The cell case is all mine. I'll post a free pattern later. I promise!! I really plan to have several free patterns up by the end of July.

2007-06-25T11:42:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY HARMONI

My baby girl is turning 11 today. She is my youngest child and my sweetheart.

2007-06-25T11:32:00.000-05:00

Just had to post this pic of my two beautiful oldest daughters. Cheyenne is on the left and Bonni is on the right. They went out to karaoke and a friend snapped this. I think they look as different as night and day yet people will still say they look a lot alike!

2007-06-25T11:05:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of Cameron doing his show the day he proposed to Stephanie. He looked so handsome up there. I have video but have yet to find the proper cable for connecting the vid cam to the 'puter to upload it. When I do, we'll post the video of the proposal and prolly one of Cameron's songs on his myspace. And/or maybe YouTube.

2007-06-03T22:46:00.000-05:00

This is the top I made from the pattern in the May issue of Creative Knitting. It's called "Lilac and Lace" and was designed by my epal, Lorna Miser. I made this one for my oldest daughter, Bonni. It is turquoise Lion Brand Microspun with Bernat's Cool Crochet for the trim. Gotta love stashbusting;o) Not sure what's with the goofy expression....

2007-05-10T12:43:00.000-05:00

FREEDOM WRITERS

I'll make this brief. 5 stars. Watch it. Own it. Everyone who lives in this country should watch this movie. It will make you angry, it will make you cry but ultimately, it will give you hope. Thank God in Heaven for the Mrs. Gruwells in the world.

If you have often thought, "I just don't understand the gang mentality," watch this movie.
If you are worried that the world is going to hell in a handbasket, this movie.
If you care at all to understand how and why non-white races in this country feel disenfranchised, watch this movie.
If you don't believe that public schools are part of the problem more often than part of the solution, watch this movie. (And then go to UTube and watch this video of John Stossel's report "Stupid in America": http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfRUMmTs0ZA
If you don't believe that one good teacher can make a real difference, WATCH THIS MOVIE.

2007-05-01T12:13:00.000-05:00

New picture of Grandma's little cowboys - and their mama too, my beautiful oldest daughter, Bonni;o)

2007-04-20T20:38:00.000-05:00

This is a set of "Nesting Bags" that I made for my March Color Swap partner. I will be posting a pattern for these soon; hopefully with a better picture. The pics I took of just these bags was on the oft lamented dud camera. I would love to find a few test knitters for this pattern as well as a lacy shrug pattern that I plan to post as well. Any volunteers???? Just let me know and I will email you the pattern.

2007-04-20T20:35:00.000-05:00

I was really hoping to get a good picture of this purse because I thought it came out really cute. It was for my purse exchange. I guess I should be thankful; this was one of the best ones on the roll. Most of them are completely unusable.

2007-04-20T17:21:00.000-05:00

You know how cats and dogs love to lie on the sun-warmed concrete on a cool but sunny day? Well, I caught all my... um, fur-babies warming themselves in the sun the other day and couldn't resist snapping a couple of pictures;o)

2007-04-18T13:12:00.000-05:00

I am so proud of Bonni, my oldest. First, she is such a good mommy to my boys. And she has a really good job and is very responsible with her money, although she can be kind of a shopaholic;o) Right now, I am really proud of her because even though she is a single mom, raising her two little boys on her own, she is buying a house! I see soooo many people her age making the same mistakes I did and ruining their credit. That is really easy to do nowadays but Bonni has avoided that pitfall and should be moving into her own home sometime next month.

2007-04-18T00:37:00.000-05:00

Your Vocabulary Score: A+

Congratulations on your multifarious vocabulary!You must be quite an erudite person.

How's" Your Vocabulary?

2007-04-11T18:52:00.000-05:00

STUPID FLIPPIN' DISPOSABLE CAMERAS!!!
Grrrr. I got a beautiful puffy with lots of cool green things in it from the wonderful Karla along with a really sweet encouraging note. I took a picture of it thinking I would blog it when I got the pictures developed. The freakin' camera apparently was a dud. I not only lost the picture from this swap but also several pictures of my little cowboys, Trey and Braiden, and pics of my donations for February to my charities!! Almost all of the pictures are way overexposed and have a weird line through the middle of them.

Anyway, thank you HUGE to Karla for my wonderful package. I love Simply Soft Chunky; use it all the time so that was perfect for me. The kids took off with the tea and the snacks immediately so I don't even remember what all was in there8O) The book was perfect, though and so was the yarn.

Have I mentioned how much I miss my digital camera!!!!!!!!!!! I didn't get a replacement for Christmas, I didn't get one for my birthday in February; if I don't get one for Mother's Day, i am going on strike!!!

2007-03-23T10:35:00.000-05:00

ERAGON
Okay,a little background. I have been homeschooling for almost 15 years. When the news comes out that a 15year old homeschooler has been published, and in one of my family's favorite genres - fantasy - I get excited; my whole family gets excited. We read Eragon aloud as a family and 3 of us also read it individually. The same goes for Eldest when it came out. (Eldest is the 2nd book in the projected trilogy.) Let me be clear about this. We. Love. Eragon.

When we heard that they were making it into a movie and who all was involved, we were psyched!!! So, to be fair, we went into this movie with HUGE expectations. And, to be blunt, we were tremendously disappointed. Well, everyone except Gini. Gini is a huge book hound but she able to view the book and the movie as totally separate entities. That is probably useful but for me, I just hate when they make major changes in a story when they translate a book into a movie. Small changes are often necessary just for the function of making a movie but major plot changes just bug me.

Christopher Paolini created a world. An entire world with different races of beings and ecosystems and the whole nine yards. He created characters that you could really care about. He created tension and resolution in fair proportions. He did not copy Harry Potter or Dragonriders of Pern or any other fantasy book. I am sure that he was inspired by masters of the genre as any author would be. The problem is that the movie reduced his world to a shadow of itself. They left out entire characters and plotlines that made the story more interesting and well-rounded. They completely left out the relationships and people of Carvahall, which will be of much greater importance to the understanding (and whether or not you give a crap about) the second movie. They reduced Murtagh to a bit part, left out the testing and the Twins and Orick and the dwarves and the Morning Star. The whole bit with the Varden was cut into about a fourth. They reduced Angela to a silly bit part as a fortune teller and omitted Solembum, the werecat, completely. Harmoni was especially disturbed by thefact that they left out Brom's horse, Snowfire, and changed Brom's death and Arya's condition.

I could go on and on. Let me just say that if you can, like Gini, completely separate book and movie, you should enjoy this movie. Assuming, of course, that you are a fan of fantasy films. I have tried to imagine how I would have felt about the movie if I didn't know what I know. Unfortunately for me, it is like trying to imagine how i would feel about an orange from looking at a photo of one if I had never bitten into a ripe, juicy one. I really don't believe they developed the characters into people you really care about; especially Murtagh and Brom. And I am really curious to see how they are going to deal with the second movie since they didn't have Eragon injured in the battle. The people of Carvahall and Eragon's inury, among other things, are very central to Eldest.

My final diagnosis: Gini will buy it. Iwill not have problem with the kids watching it; no earplugs required;o) But, really, left to myself my opinion is, why bother? The book is infinitely richer and more rewarding. 4 (of 6 possible) Stars

2007-03-21T23:31:00.000-05:00

Grandma's Boy

I just had to post this picture of Braiden sitting with me on the couch while I knit. I was working on an afghan when the boys were spending the weekend here and Braiden just loved it when I would knit cuz he would just climb up next to me under the finished end while I knitted away on the other end. He is quite sure that Grandma is going to make a blanket for him to take to his house8O) Now that is a good day!

2007-03-15T23:28:00.000-05:00

STRANGER THAN FICTION

I was looking forward to this movie even though I am not ordinarily a Will Farrell fan. I don't like the Will Farrell, Ben Stiller, Farrelly Brothers brand of comedy. I do like Emma Thompson, though. (Of course, I like Matt Damon, always, and Greg Kinear, often but I'm never going to watch Stuck on You.) But, the previews intrigued me. And, if you pay attention, even though the previews are funny, the movie is billed as a drama. So, I took the bait.

Farrell plays IRS agent Harold Crick who begins to hear a woman narrating his life. His Deadly. Boring. Life. Noone else hears this voice and we are not really informed whether or not he has any memories of his life before this begins. I presume he remembers anything that his author has written into his book. Because, of course, he is the protagonist of a book, he just doesn't know it. Lots of things aren't really explained and we are asked to swallow whole some pretty weird premises. Crick is motivated to find his "author" when he hears her announce that he will by dying soon. Emma Thompson, of course, is the author in question. She is being prodded to work through her writer's block by her assistant, played by an understated and classy Queen Latifah. It was nice to see her branch out into playing something other than a street smart, sassy sistah. I personally think she is gorgeous and smart and worthy of better roles. Anyway, Crick enlists the aid of a really weird college professor played by Dustin Hoffman! Weird, weird, role. Not getting that one.

Emma T. outperformed the movie, in my opinion. Farrell did not. I had a really hard time believing that the Maggie Gyllenhaal character would fall for him. Except maybe because she was a major nurturer. And boy, did this guy need nurturing. Actually, what he really needed... was a personality.

Bottom line: 2 stars; break out the cable needles.

2007-03-15T22:36:00.000-05:00

Next to knitting and crocheting, one of favorite obsessions is movies. I LOVE to put in a good movie and knit. And I have very eclectic taste in movies. So, to try to spice up my blog a little bit and because I just love talking about movies (just ask my knitting friend Erin;o) I am going to start posting my personal reviews of movies that I watch. I usually watch DVDs but I will go to an actual theater once in a while. And, from now on, I will be sharing my thoughts on those movies, including whether or not they make a good knitting movie of course! I will rate the movies as:
0 stars - I would never watch it again, period. Fugedaboudit
1 star - If the kids just had to watch it and I was incapable of leaving the room, I would knit something with a complicated lace pattern... and possible put on headphones and listen to Gavin DeGraw.
2 stars - Again, I wouldn't waste my rental dime on it but if the kids or grandkids just had to watch it, I would feel free to knit cables or the heels of socks cuz the movie wouldn't distract me.
3 stars - It may not be something I would buy but if the family rented it, I would probably keep the knitting fairly simple.
4 stars - This would be a movie that I would actually suggest renting. And I would knit mindless things like hats, scarves and slippers.
5 stars - Movies that I love and would own if possible. Totally mindless knitting, or crochet because it is easier to frog if I mess up.
6 stars - One word. Bliss. Very rare. Of course, I realize that my bliss is very different from anyone else's.

Remember that these are all JUST MY OPINION.

2007-03-13T18:02:00.000-05:00

I want to ask any of my friends or anyone who comes across my blog who is a praying person to please pray for my daughter, Cheyenne and her unborn baby. She is a beautiful person who has let herself get caught up in a situation that is harmful to her and could be very dangerous for her and her baby. I am very afraid for her. Please include her in your prayers.

2007-03-08T22:21:00.000-06:00

This is a picture of the last batch of hats and scarves I sent to Stand Up for Kids. That is a charity that my Knitting for Children yahoo group supports. I actually sent these several weeks ago but just now got the pics developed.

I didn't use a pattern for a single one of these. Just very basic stuff. I really liked the way the black and pink one came out though. I think I'll do some more like that one in other colors. I like making the blue and orange (Go Broncos) but I figure that everyone isn't a football fan ;o) Plus, we are told that the kids like pretty basic colors. The blue with brown specks is actually two yarns held together and I liked the way it looked. The lightest one (on the right - doesn't show up very well) is also two yarns held as one but I didn't like it as well as the other one. I thought there was a hat out of the strata that matched the strata scarf but it didn't make the picture somehow. There were also a couple pairs of fingerless mitts that I didn't photograph. I probably won't send anymore boxes to SUFK afther this month since Spring will be almost here. I'll be sending more to Parkland, the Reservation Women's Shelter and so forth. There is always someone to knit for8O)

2007-03-08T21:42:00.000-06:00

I finally got the camera developed with the picture of my Color Swap package from Julie. This was the January "metallic" swap and she did a fantastic job of finding cool metallic stuff and stuff that I would love. I couldn't believe she sent me a drop spindle and some fiber. I have been wanting to have one of those for a loooong time. Swapping like this is actually really good for me because i have a really hard time buying things for myself. I can always think of so many things I would rather get for my kids or my friends or for charity rather than something that I would like to have just for my own pleasure. I'm sure all the nurturing types out there know exactly what I mean. You Moms, Aunties, adopted grannies... you all know who you are;o) Anyway, this way I get to have some of the goodies that I would love to have but just never get around to buying for myself. Julie, you definitely came through on that score!!

I wish I had gotten a better picture. (Yes, I am now going to gripe once again about how much I miss my digital camera - another one of those things it is hard for me to put out the money for just for my own pleasure.) Anyway, I can't even remember everything that was in it cuz I've already used so many things so this is not a complete list. In addition to the drop spindle and fiber and the Aunt Lydia's yarn with the metallic thread through it (I love that stuff - use it all the time!), I really loved the butterfly applique and the purple and green beaded edging. There was yarn and knitting needles and shiny fabric and several varieties of beads and charms and some beautiful handmade stitchmarkers (I get comments about those anytime I knit in public.) For crafting, there was gold metallic cord and silver metallic braid, royal blue glitter and metallic fabric scraps. For my scrapbooking (did I mention that I scrap or is Julie psychic?) there was purple and green paint and embossing powder, a little silver frame, a whole stack of cool papers and loopy eyelets. I know there are things that I am forgetting but things have already been dispersed into my different projects. Suffice it to say, my puffy raneth over!!! THANK YOU JULIE. You were a great swap-buddy, hopefully at some point this year, you will be my recipient;o)

2007-03-07T14:59:00.000-06:00

My Mom

Ramona Gay Bittick-Anglin

1934-2003

2007-03-07T14:06:00.000-06:00

This is my middle child, Cheyenne. She is 19 and is expecting a baby this August. I have been thinking about her a lot lately. Looking for pictures of the older kids wearing things I made for them made me realize that I really didn't make nearly as many things for Cheyenne as I did for the oldest two.

When Chey came along, I was not only working full time with an hour commute each way, I was also taking college classes and was separated from my husband for about 2 years. We just made 20 years in January but we definitely were having rough times when Cheyenne was little. I quit working full time when she was about 5 so that I could homeschool and I always spent a lot of time with her as with all my kids. But I know that she always felt that she was in Bonni's shadow. To meet her, it is hard to imagine her in anyone's shadow. She is so beautiful and talented. And I always felt that she had the strongest desire to be "good" and to do what was right. That makes it hard for those of us who have always known and loved her to understand some of her choices lately. I feel that she has lost herself somehow.

I know that I have never loved her or cherished her less than any of her siblings but I have to admit that she did get shortchanged during her early years (up to about 12) on pure-dee ole time. I have always had a tendency to allow more time and resources for the oldest child. I guess because I feel that I am running out of time with them. I am starting to feel that way about Gini. When Bonni was a teen (and the type who was just successful at everything she tried and so darned sweet that you couldn't hate her for it) I know that it seemed that she got the Lion's share of the attention. When Cheyenne was a teen (and still at home), I spent every little bit of time, money and energy I had supporting her desire to perform. She has a beautiful gift and people so love to hear her sing - I believe that she deserved that chance. But Gini and Harmoni didn't get as much time and attention as they probably should have during that time.

Notice I skipped right over Cameron. Honestly, if anyone has a right to complain, it is him. During the years when I would ordinarily have been making sure he had the chance to pursue his interests and dreams, he moved in with his Grandma to take care of her so she wouldn't have to go to assisted living. He gave up his teenage years out of love for his Grandma. People who knew him during that time were so amazed at the selflessness and love he showed for her. It got to the point where she required round the clock care and was bedfast. He even took care of her through peritoneal dialysis for several years. And when she went to hemodialysis, the nurses at the unit fell in love with him because he would help anyone in any way that he could. I was, along with many other people, in awe of him. This was from the time he was 15-18. Every few weeks, Bonni or Cheyenne would stay with her to give him a break for a week or so but it was pretty much all him. There were people who thought it was wrong of me to allow it. There were people who thought she should have just been sent to a nursing home. What they don't realize is that it would have been over his dead body. She finally went into a nursing home a few months before she died because she knew her time was short and she wanted him to have a chance to let go a little before he had to let go all the way.

His education didn't suffer because she was probably a better teacher than I was anyway. She was one of the smartest people I've ever known. She dropped out of school in 8th grade to get married and went to technical school in her 30s to become an operating room nurse. After a heart attack at 48, she went back to college and graduated Magna Cum Laude. She was an autodidact in the truest sense of the word. I guess it is no wonder I became a homeschooler after all:o) I can't even imagine having gone through being a teenage mom without her. She handled every situation with good old fashioned common sense, love and grace. She had the faith of a giant and embodied the meaning of "endure to the end".

2007-03-06T12:44:00.000-06:00

Okay, here is a couple of things I made for Cameron. I thought the hat looked like a girl but my Mom made it so he wore it home. The sweater probably would have been too big for most babies but Cameron was over 10 pounds. I made Bonni a blanket just like Camerons in different colors and with Care Bears fabric for the back. The blankets and sweater are crocheted. I crocheted more than I knit back then. Nowadays, I knit more than I crochet.

2007-03-05T22:59:00.000-06:00

Okay, I couldn't get this picture to attach itself to the previous post (below) so here is the picture of Bonni now.

2007-03-05T21:24:00.000-06:00

I've been looking for patterns to make things for the new grandbaby that Cheyenne is going to give me in August and it got me to thinking about the things I made for my babies. I really didn't make that many things for them. I was too busy being a very young single mommy and going to college. I have made more things for Gini and Harmoni than I ever did for the older three. I did make a couple of things for Bonni and Cameron but by the time Cheyenne came along, I was lucky to get a blanket knit for her. My Mom knit her a gorgeous blessing robe which she wore over the lace and eyelet gown my Aunt Jean made. I will try to find a picture of that soon. It was really beautiful. These pictures are of a couple of things I made for Bonni when she was ittle. The little leg warmers, I made without a pattern and I made a pair for each of the little girls in her ballet class when she was 3. The little red outfit was so right for her. Bonni looked really good in red even when she was a tiny baby. She had such beautiful dark coloring right from the first. (The guy is Gaston - a guy friend. I was an unwed teenage mother after all;o)

Looking at the pics from back then always makes me soooo thankful that I didn't listen to the people who told me that having her would ruin my life. My beloved oldest brother told me that if I didn't get an abortion, I was just a fool. When I think of they joy that having her for a daughter has brought me. And now, she has brought two gorgeous little human beings into the world herself. And she is a really good mommy to her two little guys. I started college a little later than planned and I had to go out a little less than I otherwise would have but actually, she saved my life. I was on a very self-destructive path until I found that I was going to have a baby. At that point in my life, I didn't care about ME but I sure cared about that baby. I could go on for a long time about this subject but it is probably a post better suited to my other blog. If I get around to it;o)

Anyway, here is a picture Bonni's little men, my grandsons (with their Aunt Gini).

2007-03-05T20:44:00.000-06:00

Just playing with the new computer. This one will actually upload pictures from my Wal-Mart disc. It has been really frustrating not being able to do that. I still will miss my digital because of the picture quality but at least I can add pics of my FO's and so forth.

This picture is the first batch of squares I sent off to Hugs for Heroes. My "joiner angel" Mary joins them together and then Holly, our listmom who founded Hugs for Heroes to support hospitalized servicemen and women and their families, delivers them to the VA Hospital Ward. It is a hard time to be a hero. Every little hug helps.

Next, I'm going to try to add a scanned picture. Wish me luck!

2007-02-18T14:47:00.000-06:00

Okay, so I joined the color swap at my friend Ranee's blog last month. (I'll try to get links or buttons my friend's blogs as soon as I can figure out how.) For now, here is a link to the posts about it: http://arabianknits.blogspot.com/search/label/Colorswap
You can join for the year or just any particular month you like. Details are on Ranee's blog.

I already completed my first swap. I had a blast finding things for the metallic related theme to Karla (she is here: www.karlacardell.blogspot.com ) AND I received a FABULOUS package of goodies from Julie (she is here: www.tisjewel.blogspot.com ) I will post a picture and description of my bounty as soon as I get my camera developed.

I was supposed to post this questionnaire for my partners in the swap to know my preferences etc. Course, my computer crashed in a big way and I just got a new one so i hope everyone will forgive me up for just now getting around to it. I just got a Toshiba Satellite laptop and I'm scrambling around trying to get caught up on all my groups, swaps, thank you's, etc.

Color Swap Survey

1. Are you a yarn snob (do you prefer high-end/natural fibers)? Do you avoid Red Heart and Lion Brand? Or is it all the same to you?
I LOVE things like Alpaca and Cashmere but I can't afford it for everyday things. Plus, I do a lot of charity work and they require machine washable things. I use a LOT of Lion Brand yarn - esp Microspun, Wool Ease, WE Chunky, WE Thick and Quick, Suede.

2. Do you spin? Crochet?
I don't spin although I went to a seminar to learn, I don't have the equipment. Someday...
I do crochet. I have for over 30 years but I do more knitting than crochet. I prefer the fabric that knitting makes - esp for apparel.

3. What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do?
Mosaics, woodworking, scrapbooking, ceramics and lots of other quirky crafts.

4. What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?
Cashmere or silk blends for special things. Lion Brand Suede or Wool Ease Chunky or Thick and Quick for blankets, coats, etc.

5. What fibers do you absolutely *not* like?
I can't do much with thread because of my hands. I don't like yarn that is scratchy but then who does;o)

6. What is/are your current knitting obsession/s?
Warm things for street kids. Lace, shawls, afghans. The perfect glitten (glove/mitten).

7. What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
See above. Just about anything. I love to have several projects going so that I can work on whatever I'm in the mood for - simple, complex, thick, thin....

8. What are you knitting right now?
Checkers set, Ivy sweater from Knitty.com, necktie for my son, warm things for SUFK and a women's shelter.

9. Are you a sock knitter?
Not so much. Baby ones, yes. I am tempted sometimes by the fun of the sock patterns but I just can't get my bunch to care that much about wearing home-made socks. They just want athletic ankle socks:o\

10. What's your favorite color? Or--do you have a color family/season/palette you prefer? Are there any colors you hate?
I just don't like really bright, jangly colors. I prefer a more muted palette. Soft shades of purple and green are my favorites.

11. Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
Nope. I started to set one up at Herrschnerrs but got interrupted as usual.

12. Do you have any allergies? (smoke, pets, fibers, perfume, etc.)
Nope. Don't like to smell smoke but not allergic.

13. Do you have any religious prohibitions or restrictions?
I am Christian. LDS specifically. I'm not supposed to drink coffee but I indulge in a cup of gourmet once in a while. Hey, I didn't say I was a really good LDS.

14. What's your favorite scent? (for candles, bath products etc.)
Melon, cucumber, ocean.

15. Do you burn candles?
You betcha!!

16. Do you have a sweet or salt tooth?
I have both! I'm trying to learn to indulge them in healthy ways.

17. Do you drink coffee, tea or cocoa?
Love herbal tea and cocoa.

18. What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
My dh of 20 years is a truck driver. We have 5 kids and 2 grandsons. 26 yo dd lives with her 2 baby boys, 19 yo dd lives with her.... (can't cuss, can't cuss, can't cuss) fiancee. 22 yo ds, lives at home and is preparing for a mission. 12 yo dd and 10 yo dd live at home and are homeschooled. We have a horse, 2 big dogs, 1 little truck dog that travels with dh and one psycho cat. My Pitt Bull, Princess is always at my side when I knit. She is very much a lady, though and wouldn't dream of stepping or sitting on my knitting. The horse on the other hand....

19. What are some of your favorite things?
Horses, music of all kinds - esp country, classical, blues, jazz and celtic, classic movies, Lost (tv show).

20. Is there anything that you collect?
Horses and blue willow.

21. What is your favorite holiday?
I'm kind of a scrooge. I refuse to acknowledge Dec 25. We've switched to Epiphany because of the horror that "Christmas Day" has become. Christ would be horrified. Thanksgiving makes me miss my Mom terribly. I guess my favorite would be New Years. My family has some pretty cool traditions going for New Years.

2006-11-04T15:11:00.000-06:00

2006-11-04T12:50:00.000-06:00

This is a knit baby blanket that I have been working on with yarn remnants as I felt the notion, off-and-on for quite a while. I finally finished it and I really like it! Not bad for a "scrap" project. It is going to a charity called Golisano for my KnittingforChildren yahoo group. I'm sending off some other stuff too but I don't have the camera developed with those pics yet.

Sorry about the pic on its side. My pathetic little computer seems to have figured out that it is being replaced come Christmas morn and it is just quitting a bit at a time. My photo editing program now won't work. It was a neat trick getting these pics uploaded at all. I WANT MY DIGITAL CAMERA BACK! I miss it soooo much. And I will be soooooooooo glad to get our new computer from Santa.

2006-10-31T19:35:00.000-06:00

No craft in this picture - just grandma's pride and joy; Trey - almost 4 and Braiden - 2 1/2.

I love this cute little retro top. It was supposed to be a gift for a friend's little girl but it came out smaller than planned (about 12-18 months instead 2T) so it is going to charity.
The hats in this picture did not come out very clear at all. But I couldn't resist posting my "models";o) Cameron is grinning as usual, Gini looks very sullen even though she is a very sweet spirit (she is trying very hard to cultivate a "coolness" these days; she is 12 after all;-), Harmoni is distracted and sweet as is usual for her.

This hat came out really cute. This is a chemo hat for charity. I always try them on a person to make sure they are proportioned right. Then I wash and block them so I can be sure the recipient will not wash it once and have to throw it out. Here is a link to this very quick and easy and cute pattern: http://www.hometown.aol.com/tepperleen/page2.html
Here is a picture of Gini wearing another chemo hat. This one is my own pattern. There is seed stitch accent just above the roll brim that doesn't show up. I made this one up as I went along - my favorite way to make a hat;o)

2006-10-31T18:48:00.000-06:00

This is a purse pattern from Crochet Me. Cute, huh? I made one for an exchange and one to go with the hat for a gift. I wish the little fairy pin showed up better. It is really cute.
This is my first submission for my handbag exchange. The autumn orange bag is my own design. The pretty little buttons don't show up, unfortunately but Jez said she loved the bag. It is made holding nylon cord together with Boa so it is very sturdy and I put a magnetic snap closing on it. My Harmoni loved it so much that I have to make her a blue one;o)

2006-10-16T22:40:00.000-05:00

This is an openwork poncho that I originally designed in black cord with with "fur" to go over a "little black dress" for my daughter, Cheyenne, to wear for her performances. (She is a singer.) Other people started requesting it and I sold quite a few of them before I got bored with doing just this all the time and stopped. This one was made for a more funky, artsy type of person. It is not really my daughter, Bonni's style but she was nice enough to model it for me so I could get a picture of this one before I gave it to it's recipient because I didn't have any pictures of them. Sure wish I had gotten a picture of the black ones before they were all given out. I actually do have a couple of Cheyenne wearing it but it is so dark that it isn't very easy to see what's what. I may try scanning that in and seeing if I can do anything to make it worth posting. Meantime, just use your imagination;o)

Natalie

"...the way home is every good thing that God told us to do."

Mattie Stepanek 1991-2004

2006-10-11T17:38:00.000-05:00

Here is a beautiful little poem written in 1998 by a little boy with MD named Mattie Stepanek when he was about 4 or 5. Mattie lived from 1991-2004. He was a NY Times bestselling author a really amazing human being. You will see his stuff here from time to time. The world needs more Mattie.

When the trees sing,

It doesn't really matter

If you know the song,

Or if you know the words,

Or even if you know the tune.

What really matters is knowing

That the trees are singing at all.

2006-10-10T16:39:00.000-05:00

This is Gini wearing her scarf. No pattern necessary! Just choose the ww acrylic of your choice and hold it together as one with a strand of the Fun Fur or Boa of your choice, cast on about 8 sts, (I used size 10's) and St st away until it is the length you want it! These are so fun and cute and all the girls (of all ages) are wearing these around here.

This is my 10 year old, Harmoni, with the little bag I made for her. No pattern, just a basic little bag with a cute little button and loop closure and a pink metal chain handle. It is a great beginner project so if someone would like a pattern, just let me know and I'll email it to you. This is eyelash yarn and Caron Simply Soft held together as one and made in single crochet throughout.

This is a very unflattering picture of my 12 year old, Gini, but the only pic I have of the outfit. This is the first crocheted apparel item I designed. It was very quick and simple and, since I made it from 4 ply cotton, it was very inexpensive, too. But it sure gets a lot of compliments! I also made this in a purple/yellow print skirt and solid purple shrug for Harmoni.

I also have a knit lace version of the shrug, which I think is much prettier. I'll post that as soon as I can get a pic. My digital camera is on the fritz, unfortunately.

Well, have a beautiful evening... or not, it is up to you;o)

Natshell

2006-10-10T11:04:00.000-05:00

Hello! I am Natshell and I have created this blog to talk, gripe and share my efforts at knitting, crocheting, and other crafts. I have a personal journal type blog at www.notgoinquietly.blogspot.com for anyone who is interested; I just decided to create a separate one for my crafting so that my crafty friends wouldn't have to wade through all my homeschooling, life, death, health, kids etc to find my projects;o) I will, from time to time, however, post quotes, about-me lists, favorites lists and such on this blog as well. I just think people ought to get to know each other better, ya know? People are too disconnected nowadays. So here goes.

Have a great day!.... or don't, it really is up to you.