I've been contemplating on a few things since the terrible massacre at Virginia Tech. I have had so many things I've wanted to say and express, but the right words just weren't coming to me. I was so thankful to find a link to an excellent article about this over at my sister's blog today! It articulates exactly what I have been wanting to say.
For example, Geraldo, on Fox News, claimed we need to protect our children. Hold on! Young adults the same age as these college students are fighting for our freedom, you know, IN WAR! We don't really consider them children now do we? How many of those who want to now start calling college students children in need of protection, are all for murdering other children right in their mommy's womb!? What a double standard!
Dennis Miller made an excellent point while on the O'Reilly Factor last night. I can't remember his exact words to quote him, but the main thought he was putting forth was that we have become a nation of coddled wimps! We now have a generation of "men", if I may use that word loosely, who don't realize real danger when they are confronted with it. So many violent games, songs, and movies have numbed so many young people, that now they just sit back and watch as a real case scenario of violence plays out in front of them! Mr. Miller said we have neutered our kids to a point where they are no longer capable of judging good from bad, even when it is staring them in the face! He also pointed out that since we have created such a "non-judgemental" and "politically correct" state of mind for everyone, many can't judge situations for what they truly are.
My sister, Jungle Mom and I, had a great conversation about all this. We threw our sons into the mix, discussing how this shooter had free reign in classroom after classroom that day. We just can't imagine our boys sitting there or cowering behind a desk. One young man I saw interviewed on T.V. by Katie Couric, spoke to the fact that the gunman reloaded his gun and then continued shooting. What did the ADULT students do during that time? Evidently they continued cowering behind the desk they had tipped over!! GIVE ME A BREAK! Rita and I think our two Joshes would have rushed the guy or thrown a book at him to distract him, knowing they were taking a risk, but yet doing the RIGHT thing and thinking FOR themselves. Case in point, I asked my Josh what he would have done had he been in one of those classrooms that day. He said, " I would have done my best to stop the jerk! If a couple of students had thrown things at the guy or rushed him, a few of those lives could have been saved!" I agree Josh! He was actually taken aback when I told him the guy witnessed the gunman reloading!
"What? They let the jerk have time to reload?"
Rita asked her daughter Jewel the same question, and got pretty much the same response from her.
I could go on and on, but I won't. Please read the article from the link below. Thank you for listening!
http://article.nationalreview.com/
Thursday, April 19, 2007
SO ME! I'm kind of scarey huh?
| You Are Not Messy |
 You're so clean, people have accused you of being a clean freak! You like things tidy, organized, and smelling fresh. Messes drive you crazy, especially when you didn't make them. It's hard for you to live with a slob - or someone who leaves their dishes in the sink. |
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
|
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
For Lovvom, she loves critters!
Did any of my Texan friends hear about this?
This picture was taken by a KTBS helicopter flying over Lake Conroe ! (For those of you who are not local, Lake Conroe is about 50 miles north of Houston )
That has to be a HUGE gator to have a whole deer in its mouth! Are you ready to go skiing on Lake Conroe ?! If you ski at the west end of the lake -- try not to fall. Picture below:This alligator was found between Athens and Palestine , Texas near a house. Game wardens were forced to shoot the alligator- guess he wouldn't cooperate... Anita and Charlie Rogers could hear the bellowing in the night. Their neighbors had been telling them that they had seen a mammoth alligator in the waterway that runs behind their house, but they dismissed the stories as exaggerations. "I didn't believe it," Charles Rogers said. Friday they realized the stories were, if anything, understated.
Texas Parks and Wildlife game wardens had to shoot the beast. Joe Goff, 6'5" tall, a game warden with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, walks past a 23-foot, 1-inch alligator that he shot and killed in their back yard.
I think that the Texas Game and Wildlife wardens made a huge mistake when they shot this
beast.With a little planning they easily could have transplanted it to the Rio Grande River. Now that should have cut down on the illegal migration just a tad!!
Monday, April 16, 2007
A Tragedy
Monday, April 16, 2007Today, tragedy struck as a gunman opened fire on the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, VA. The violence left 33 dead and an atmosphere of chaos on the campus. This is the worst shooting in the history of our nation. We do not know what compelled this tragedy, but we do know that we can pray.
President Bush addressed the nation, saying he and Mrs. Bush are praying for the victims’ families and acknowledging the deep wound this cuts into the life of our nation. “Our nation grieves with those who have lost loved ones. We hold them up in our prayers.”
Heavenly Father, come with Your peace to the students, faculty and staff at Virginia Tech, and to the greater community of Blacksburg. Calm their fears and bring Your comforting presence. Give wisdom and strength to the administration of the University as they deal with this crisis. Grant healing and comfort to the injured and wisdom to those treating them.
Bring Your powerful strength and presence to those families who will soon hear the sad news that their loved one has been killed. Send Your ministering spirits to heal and restore the entire community as they seek to recover from this horrendous act of violence.
Call our nation to repentance and righteousness, that You may heal our land from all that troubles us. In Jesus Name,Amen.
President Bush addressed the nation, saying he and Mrs. Bush are praying for the victims’ families and acknowledging the deep wound this cuts into the life of our nation. “Our nation grieves with those who have lost loved ones. We hold them up in our prayers.”
Heavenly Father, come with Your peace to the students, faculty and staff at Virginia Tech, and to the greater community of Blacksburg. Calm their fears and bring Your comforting presence. Give wisdom and strength to the administration of the University as they deal with this crisis. Grant healing and comfort to the injured and wisdom to those treating them.
Bring Your powerful strength and presence to those families who will soon hear the sad news that their loved one has been killed. Send Your ministering spirits to heal and restore the entire community as they seek to recover from this horrendous act of violence.
Call our nation to repentance and righteousness, that You may heal our land from all that troubles us. In Jesus Name,Amen.
YOU ARE BLESSED!
If you woke up this morning
with more health than illness,
you are more blessed than the
million who won't survive the week.
If you have never experienced
the danger of battle,
the loneliness of imprisonment,
the agony of torture or
the pangs of starvation,
you are ahead of 20 million people
around the world.
If you attend a church meeting
without fear of harassment,
arrest, torture, or death,
you are more blessed than almost
three billion people in the world.
If you have food in your refrigerator,
clothes on your back, a roof over
your head and a place to sleep,
you are richer than 75% of this world.
If you have money in the bank,
in your wallet, and spare change
in a dish someplace, you are among
the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If your parents are still married and alive,
you are very rare,
especially in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile
on your face and are truly thankful,
you are blessed because the majority can,
but most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them
or even touch them on the shoulder,
you are blessed because you can
offer God's healing touch.
If you can read this message,
you are more blessed than over
two billion people in the world
that cannot read anything at all.
You are so blessed in ways
you may never even know.
with more health than illness,
you are more blessed than the
million who won't survive the week.
If you have never experienced
the danger of battle,
the loneliness of imprisonment,
the agony of torture or
the pangs of starvation,
you are ahead of 20 million people
around the world.
If you attend a church meeting
without fear of harassment,
arrest, torture, or death,
you are more blessed than almost
three billion people in the world.
If you have food in your refrigerator,
clothes on your back, a roof over
your head and a place to sleep,
you are richer than 75% of this world.
If you have money in the bank,
in your wallet, and spare change
in a dish someplace, you are among
the top 8% of the world's wealthy.
If your parents are still married and alive,
you are very rare,
especially in the United States.
If you hold up your head with a smile
on your face and are truly thankful,
you are blessed because the majority can,
but most do not.
If you can hold someone's hand, hug them
or even touch them on the shoulder,
you are blessed because you can
offer God's healing touch.
If you can read this message,
you are more blessed than over
two billion people in the world
that cannot read anything at all.
You are so blessed in ways
you may never even know.
A BIRTHDAY MEME
I really enjoyed doing this because it was educational!! I learned a few things!
November 8
1. Go to Wikipedia and type in your birth date only -without the year.
2. List 3 events that occurred that day:
a)1519 -Hernán Cortés enters Tenochtitlán and Aztec ruler Moctezuma welcomes him with great pomp as would befit a returning god
b)1889 - Montana is admitted as the 41st U.S. state.
c)1997 - US president Bill Clinton speaks at a dinner sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign, the USA's largest gay rights organisation. (Yes, remember that guy?)
3. List 2 important birthdays:
a)1836 - Milton Bradley, American game manufacturer (d. 1911)
b)2003 - Lady Louise Windsor, British royal
4. List 1 death:
a)1978 - Norman Rockwell, American illustrator (b. 1894)
5.List a holiday or observance:
a)annually - Saint Michael's Day in Greece and Cyprus and to those of Greek Orthodox faith worldwide
Now, wasn't that interesting?
Now I get to tag 5 people!
1)Missy http://www.crowniesmom.blogspot.com/
2)Kristi http://thimblethoughts.blogspot.com/
3)Lyndy http://ohfiddle-dee-dee.blogspot.com/
4)Just Theresa http://theresamcentire.blogspot.com/
5)Jenniferhttp://penofjen.blogspot.com/
November 8
1. Go to Wikipedia and type in your birth date only -without the year.
2. List 3 events that occurred that day:
a)1519 -Hernán Cortés enters Tenochtitlán and Aztec ruler Moctezuma welcomes him with great pomp as would befit a returning god
b)1889 - Montana is admitted as the 41st U.S. state.
c)1997 - US president Bill Clinton speaks at a dinner sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign, the USA's largest gay rights organisation. (Yes, remember that guy?)
3. List 2 important birthdays:
a)1836 - Milton Bradley, American game manufacturer (d. 1911)
b)2003 - Lady Louise Windsor, British royal
4. List 1 death:
a)1978 - Norman Rockwell, American illustrator (b. 1894)
5.List a holiday or observance:
a)annually - Saint Michael's Day in Greece and Cyprus and to those of Greek Orthodox faith worldwide
Now, wasn't that interesting?
Now I get to tag 5 people!
1)Missy http://www.crowniesmom.blogspot.com/
2)Kristi http://thimblethoughts.blogspot.com/
3)Lyndy http://ohfiddle-dee-dee.blogspot.com/
4)Just Theresa http://theresamcentire.blogspot.com/
5)Jenniferhttp://penofjen.blogspot.com/
Oh My!
I first came out as Padme, but she was dressed too immodest for me to post her photo! YIKES!
Your results:
You are C-3PO
(This list displays the top 10 results out of a possible 21 characters)
Click here to take the "Which Star Wars character am I?" quiz...
Your results:
You are C-3PO
| You don't have a lot going for you, and you let everyone know it. You may have one or two close companions left, but if you keep complaining they may wander off.  |
(This list displays the top 10 results out of a possible 21 characters)
Click here to take the "Which Star Wars character am I?" quiz...
Great Quote for the New Week!
My brethren, let me say, be like Christ at all times. Imitate him in "public." Most of us live in some sort of public capacity—many of us are called to work before our fellow-men every day. We are watched; our words are caught; our lives are examined—taken to pieces. The eagle-eyed, argus-eyed world observes everything we do, and sharp critics are upon us. Let us live the life of Christ in public. Let us take care that we exhibit our Master, and not ourselves—so that we can say, "It is no longer I that live, but Christ that lives in me."
—Charles Spurgeon
—Charles Spurgeon
Saturday, April 14, 2007
He's Home!
Can you all believe it? Only 4 days after open heart surgery, my dad is home, safe and sound. Late yesterday afternoon, I was surprised when I answered my telephone and heard my father's voice full of vim and vigor announcing that he was blowing that joint and going over the walls! "Really dad?" I asked doubtfully. "Really! I am getting discharged tomorrow morning at 10:30!"
I just spoke with mom around 1:30 today (Sat.), and he was all settled in at home. The Dr.'s, nurses, and friends have all been amazed at dad's wonderful and quick recovery. We aren't surprised, just more convinced than ever that God is in the prayer answering business. You know, after his last surgery almost 9 years ago, he wasn't in near as good as health as he is in now. He also had a massive heart attack before the emergency 5 bypasses were performed. This time around, Dad has walked religiously for those years, takes all kinds of herbs and vitamins, is very strict with his diet, his heart attack was less severe this time, he recently lost 47 pounds, and remember-he had 5 days of rest between this heart attack and this surgery. I'm sure all of those things play into his quick healing; but God definitely gets all the glory! Dad hasn't had any pain medication since the day after his surgery!
We have spoken of how many people all over the world are praying for him and mom. Many we know, but many we may never meet in person. Let me tell you something now that will give you goose bumps! A letter from the Gideons International was in the stack of un-opened mail. It stated that Dad, Pastor Jack Riffe, had been named "Pastor of the Week". It went on to explain that dad would be lifted up daily in prayer by name by each Gideon in this regional chapter! The letter was dated for April 7, last Saturday. Dad's surgery was Tuesday and his recovery began that evening! Now, to make this even better, let's go back to dad's last surgery in September of 1999. Dad was chosen that week also as "Pastor of the Week"! It had never happened before and it hasn't happened since, until this week! Now people, you can't make this stuff up! I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus!
Have a wonderful rest of the week-end! Thanks once again for your loving prayers and support! Those cyber hugs felt so good last week!
I just spoke with mom around 1:30 today (Sat.), and he was all settled in at home. The Dr.'s, nurses, and friends have all been amazed at dad's wonderful and quick recovery. We aren't surprised, just more convinced than ever that God is in the prayer answering business. You know, after his last surgery almost 9 years ago, he wasn't in near as good as health as he is in now. He also had a massive heart attack before the emergency 5 bypasses were performed. This time around, Dad has walked religiously for those years, takes all kinds of herbs and vitamins, is very strict with his diet, his heart attack was less severe this time, he recently lost 47 pounds, and remember-he had 5 days of rest between this heart attack and this surgery. I'm sure all of those things play into his quick healing; but God definitely gets all the glory! Dad hasn't had any pain medication since the day after his surgery!
We have spoken of how many people all over the world are praying for him and mom. Many we know, but many we may never meet in person. Let me tell you something now that will give you goose bumps! A letter from the Gideons International was in the stack of un-opened mail. It stated that Dad, Pastor Jack Riffe, had been named "Pastor of the Week". It went on to explain that dad would be lifted up daily in prayer by name by each Gideon in this regional chapter! The letter was dated for April 7, last Saturday. Dad's surgery was Tuesday and his recovery began that evening! Now, to make this even better, let's go back to dad's last surgery in September of 1999. Dad was chosen that week also as "Pastor of the Week"! It had never happened before and it hasn't happened since, until this week! Now people, you can't make this stuff up! I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus!
Have a wonderful rest of the week-end! Thanks once again for your loving prayers and support! Those cyber hugs felt so good last week!
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Dad's Day So Far!
Some photos taken of Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve, 2006, Faith Baptist Church, Wesley Chapel.
Greetings! I spoke with mom on the phone today and heard another great report on dad! Mom needs your prayers more than ever now, as she will become his primary caregiver when he gets home. She has been right by his side through all of this. I know she is worn out, but she is strong and determined. She tried going home to sleep the first night after dad was hospitalized but couldn't relax. The next day, dad was put in a room on the floor with a large couch and a recliner. Mom packed her suitcase and moved in! She showered and slept there. It made her feel more at ease to do so. Anyone who knows my mom knows she couldn't be talked out of staying. She had made up her mind to stay! I'm sure if it were my hubby, I would do the same!
They had dad up walking the halls again this morning and then he sat up for 2 hours in a recliner. A dear Christian brother came by to visit and pray with him. Bro. Steve could hardly pray for crying! He has always told me how much he loves and respects my dad. Dad then showered and spent 2 more hours sitting in the recliner. After lunch, he was exhausted! Then 2 more special visitors arrived. Pastor Bruce Turner and his Associate Pastor, Tommy Thompson came by to check on their dear Bro. Jack, and to have prayer. They were amazed at how quickly dad is healing! Dad's bandage was taken off his chest incision today. Pastor Turner, a couple doctors, and nurses have commented on how good the incision is healing. It doesn't look as though it is only 48 hours old. It appears to have had more time to heal than that, it looks so good! After his visitors left, Dad went fast to sleep! Mom said he was so ready for it!
He is reaching that irritable, grumpy stage that all heart surgery patients seem to go through. The doctors reassured us today that is common. My dad is usually laid back and so easy going. Now he is interrupting the nurses, telling them he doesn't need them, trying to do things on his own. I guess you could say his stubbornness is showing! Mom found herself apologizing to a nurse this morning for my dad's shortness with her. She smiled and said she understood what mom was saying but not to worry. Even at his worst, dad is still much kinder and a much better patient than most on that floor! LOL
We realize that part of dad's irritability is due to being through so much for the past 9 days! Also, rather than administering his diabetic medicine, they have him on insulin. They know it won't interfere with the other meds they are giving him. Dad is a regimented person as well. He has been out of his routine for over a week now. Plus I think he is just dog-bone tired! His body has been through so much and his emotions as well. We did discuss funeral plans with Pastor Turner you know, JUST IN CASE! I didn't mean for that to sound cold, just real. God had another plan for dad though. Thankfully he is still with us! Ok, I'm too emotional to go on now. Thanks for all the love, cyper-hugs and prayers!
Latest Update
Praise the Lord! My dad was up walking the hospital hallway tonight! He hadn't had any pain medication since 4 a.m. but tonight he did ask for something due to his arm aching so much. It had swelled during the day and was causing him discomfort, so he was given a Percocet. He was moved out of recovery and into intensive care this afternoon, a day earlier than most patients! Is God a powerful God or what?
My entire family knows its prayer from believers that are helping dad and all of us through this process. Mom and Dad were so blessed reading the encouraging comments I had printed out and taken into the hospital.
We had some fun times while hanging out in the waiting rooms. Here are a few photos to prove it! Click photos to enlarge for better viewing. Enjoy!
My entire family knows its prayer from believers that are helping dad and all of us through this process. Mom and Dad were so blessed reading the encouraging comments I had printed out and taken into the hospital.
We had some fun times while hanging out in the waiting rooms. Here are a few photos to prove it! Click photos to enlarge for better viewing. Enjoy!
Shane with his Grandpa Jack, last Wednesday after the heart attack, the first night in hospital. Oh and notice the guard dog, Chance!
Shane with Grandma Loretta in the waiting room. Mom was actually sleeping in this position. Notice how God supplied a chair that let out into a bed? *Smiles*
Naomy and Josh waiting for their turn to go in and visit Grandpa. 
My brother Johnny, THE THINKER!
The boys got a little bored. Wait until you see what they were up to! 
Are those Josh Vernoy's feet?
Jungle Mom's son, Josh Daniel with his Uncle John, whom he looks up to very much indeed!
A glove miraculously became a bed buddy for Grandpa! Thanks Josh Daniel!
My hubby and I trying to rest a bit.
Agustin looks so innocent, doesn't he?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Now On A Lighter Note...
I'm a Porsche Boxster!
You're stylish, nimble, and good-looking. When it comes to having fun, there are few who can surpass you. And yet, you suffer from a lingering inferiority complex. Maybe it's because you have an older relative who is always in thelimelight?
Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.
Up and At 'Em!!
Praise the Lord, Dad is Up and At 'Em!! Thanks for your prayers and concern! Our God is so gracious! Dad came out of surgery at 2p.m. Tuesday and today, Wednesday at 2p.m. (exactly 24 hours later) I was in his recovery room. You can see in the photo below that he got out of bed and is sitting in a recliner and COMBING HIS HAIR! (Both of 'em! *giggle, giggle*)
He had 3 by passes and the Surgeon said since dad is in good shape and young (71 in June!) he thinks he will be just fine! Dad has denied pain medications since 4 a.m.! He says he just feels a little sore! DUH!?!
Yesterday when I first saw him in recovery, I broke down and bawled. He was just coming from under the anesthesia and jerking as though he were having convulsions. One eye was mostly open, but no movement from the eyeball. The other eye was shut. He was so swollen! His head, hands, neck, arms, and feet looked twice their regular size! The breathing tube and chest tube were only 2 of the many wires and devices attached to him. So today I just had to get in there to see him again and boy I'm glad I did. I recieved so much comfort when I saw him in the improved condition!
I will write more after church tonight. God bless you all. You have been such encouragers to my family and I. Well all of you except for one crazy loon out there who left hurtful comments on my previous post and a terrible comment on Jungle Mom's as well! May their loved one never be in such a situation.
As always, click photo to enlarge!
He had 3 by passes and the Surgeon said since dad is in good shape and young (71 in June!) he thinks he will be just fine! Dad has denied pain medications since 4 a.m.! He says he just feels a little sore! DUH!?!
Yesterday when I first saw him in recovery, I broke down and bawled. He was just coming from under the anesthesia and jerking as though he were having convulsions. One eye was mostly open, but no movement from the eyeball. The other eye was shut. He was so swollen! His head, hands, neck, arms, and feet looked twice their regular size! The breathing tube and chest tube were only 2 of the many wires and devices attached to him. So today I just had to get in there to see him again and boy I'm glad I did. I recieved so much comfort when I saw him in the improved condition!
I will write more after church tonight. God bless you all. You have been such encouragers to my family and I. Well all of you except for one crazy loon out there who left hurtful comments on my previous post and a terrible comment on Jungle Mom's as well! May their loved one never be in such a situation.
As always, click photo to enlarge!
Monday, April 09, 2007
Postponed Surgery
Due to lack of beds in the Operating Rooms today, dad's surgery was rescheduled for Tuesday morning at 6:30 a.m. Please continue to pray that the surgeon's hands will be annointed and all will go smoothly. We know God has a reason for the surgery to be delayed. I am somewhat relieved really, thinking that first thing in the morning is better that late in the afternoon! All will be fresh starting a new day!
Love You All!
Proverbs 3:5&6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understandings. In all they ways acknowledge HIM and HE shall direct thy paths."
Love You All!
Proverbs 3:5&6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understandings. In all they ways acknowledge HIM and HE shall direct thy paths."
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Surgery at High Noon!
Dad holding Elena Grace, his first and only GREAT-grandbaby!(She lives in Paraguay now)
What a weekend! Saturday, Shane, Agustin and I went to eat at a little Mexican restaurant in a small town nearby. The food was good, but not what we had expected after reading great reviews and hearing so many brag to us about it. It was fun though learning about a surrounding town up the road from us.
We then made the obligated journey to mecca! (Wal-Mart). Agustin was debating whether to go with me or not. Shane piped in: "I wanna go. You know, when I hear the word Wal-Mart, I get all warm and fuzzy inside!" What a funny little boy!
I was glad Agustin went. I was pooped, feeling weak, and hurting really bad. I don't think I could have loaded and unloaded that stuff so many times by myself! Have you all ever counted how many times you must handle an item you purchase before you ever get it to it's proper place? Too many!
We got it all put away. Since so much time this week has been spent in the hospital and on the phone, I didn't get the ironing done. So Agustin ironed his pretty Lilac dress shirt for today. He had to work, but I told him it would be nice to wear a Spring color. I finished putting things away and had to wash a new shirt we had bought for Shane. After doing a few more things around the house, I ironed Shane's new shirt and touched up his dress pants. We decorated cookies this year instead of eggs. I'll show pictures later. After getting Shane to bed and reading a couple chapters from his bedtime book, I fell into my bed! I really didn't sleep well due to extreme pain in my shoulders. I was up at 6:30 a.m. to see Agustin off to work and to start getting ready for our long day.
Josh drove up and went to church with Shane and I. It was nice being together for such a special Sunday. We then went to Olive Garden for lunch with the Leonard family. Then home to pack overnight bags, as I wanted to stay in Tampa tonight so getting to the hospital plenty early Monday morning wouldn't be an issue. After Agustin got off work, around 4:30, he came and picked us up for a visit to the hospital to see dad. We brought supper for mom from Olive Garden and dad had asked for garlic bread sticks! Said he was actually craving them!
Dad was in great spirits. He looked so good sitting up in the recliner reading his Bible. Mom was laying on the couch reading something as well. We had a nice visit and hid plastic Easter eggs around dad's room for Shane to find! Quite an unusual Easter for us, but fun none the less.
It bothers me that dad looked so good today and actually felt well; but tomorrow will be another story. I remember how swollen and thirsty and weak and drugged he was after his first open heart surgery. I remember thinking, when I walked into the recovery room eight years ago, how that man lying there didn't even look like my daddy! I can hardly bear thinking that, tomorrow, after being sliced open, my dad will have a "chest spreader" used on him to break his chest open. He will also have his right leg opened as the surgeon needs to retrieve an artery from there. Then the long recuperation process that follows. Not fun! Then of course, there is the concern we have for mom as she will be the major caregiver to dad for these crucial next six weeks.
We know dad is in the hands of His Almighty Father and he isn't concerned at all. He knows that his personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ has reserved him a home in Heaven. Your prayers today are greatly appreciated! I'll post an update as soon as I can.
In Honor of a Real Hero
My blogger friend, Jen, wrote a poignant article about her father. I'd like to encourage you all to take the few minutes to click on the link and go read what this patriotic American has to share with you!
http://penofjen.blogspot.com/2007/04/in-honor-of-captain-david-p-gibson.html
http://penofjen.blogspot.com/2007/04/in-honor-of-captain-david-p-gibson.html
A Most Comforting Psalm
Back in the summer while my friend Amber was home from college, she sang "Psalm 23" with two of our church staff members. This was their first time to sing together. Considering the week we have just ended and waiting for for my father's by pass surgery on Monday, I felt myself being drawn to this lovely song tonight. Please take the time to listen. I'm sure your heart will be blessed. I hope you all have a wonderfully blessed Easter.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Uh-Oh! What Do I Do Now?
I feel honored that my sister, Jungle Mom, bestowed upon me this award. I don't feel that my blog is much more than fluff most of the time. I didn't even know about this wonderful world of blogging until six months ago! I must confess, I LOVE blogging. Did you hear me? Let me reiterate: I LOVE blogging, I really do!One of the reasons I started blogging was to simply stay in touch with my family which is scattered all over the globe. Family is so very important to me and I want to be involved the best I can with each family member. If I can stay abreast on what is going on in my niece's and nephew's lives, then I figure it won't be so hard reconnecting when they come to the states again.
I felt a wonderful reason for blogging was to use it to help spread the good news of Christ's love for us. So many in our world are lost and hurting. I feel it to be such an honor when I can share a word fitly spoken or a verse of scripture with someone to help or encourage them. I also pray that I would be a positive testimony for my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I also use my blog as therapy! That's right, therapy. I have a chronic illness that causes me so much pain. Many days are lost on trying to catch up on sleep or rest due to being up all night writhing and groaning. Many times when I can't lift or scrub a thing, I can sit here and type. I can spill my thoughts and heart. It really seems to help!
Another reason I think blogging appeals to me is that it helps me have conversations and communicate with others without leaving my home. I don't drive often due to stiffness or simply plain not feeling like it! So the internet, and especially blogging, helps me reach out of my four walls somewhat.
I will spend the weekend mulling over which 5 blogs I want to present this award to. Please check back on Monday.
Once again, thanks sis for the award! I will try to live up to it.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Update on my Dad
Due to a difficult and long day at the hospital yesterday, I chose not to go to Busch Gardens today with the guys. It all worked out for the best! It's Spring Break here and evidently lots of others places as well. The lines to simply buy passes were SO long, and the people were crawling around like ants. Josh's friend Shawn pulled a muscle at work Thursday, so he didn't go to the park. Why spend all that money to get in if you can't ride? The other two guys who were supposed to go were exhausted from all day in the hospital Thursday with us. So my guys, upon seeing how crowded the park was going to be, simply turned around and went to Olive Garden for a nice lunch al fresco. Uncle John did join them there. After lunch, Agustin, Josh, and Shane came home with some rented movies and just hung out all afternoon. Tonight Josh is with friends having an X BOX competition. All day Josh recieved phone calles and text messages wishing him a great birthday. He was quite pleased. Oh and Wednesday night, he recieved a home made peanut butter pie from a dear friend. He was on cloud nine after that. I don't think he needed anything else to make his 20th birthday happy! *smiles and winks*
Now moving onto Dad! He is stable and therefore was moved onto the regular floor this afternoon, so he is no longer in Cardiac Intensive Care. He is off the nitro drip and blood thinner IV as well. The room he is in will afford him to get much needed rest as he gears up for his surgery. The room is large with a full couch and recliner in it. As a matter of fact, they brought my mom pillows and blankets and she is staying there tonight. Dad got up for awhile and sat in the recliner. The best thing that happened to him to day is that my mom brought in his glasses and Bible!
The surgeon came in this afternoon and told him the by pass surgery will take place at 12:00 noon Monday. The two arteries which need to be replaced are from the original five which were replaced in 1999. The veins they used have just worn out. We had hoped that first by pass would have lasted longer than 8 years. At least this by pass surgery is being entered upon in a calm, informed manner. The one in '99 was an emergency surgery in the middle of the night!
Your kind comments are so warming to me and to my dad as well. I have been printing them out and taking them to the hospital to read to him. He and my mom were struck at how strangers from all over the world are lifting him up in prayer. Thank you all once again.
Now moving onto Dad! He is stable and therefore was moved onto the regular floor this afternoon, so he is no longer in Cardiac Intensive Care. He is off the nitro drip and blood thinner IV as well. The room he is in will afford him to get much needed rest as he gears up for his surgery. The room is large with a full couch and recliner in it. As a matter of fact, they brought my mom pillows and blankets and she is staying there tonight. Dad got up for awhile and sat in the recliner. The best thing that happened to him to day is that my mom brought in his glasses and Bible!
The surgeon came in this afternoon and told him the by pass surgery will take place at 12:00 noon Monday. The two arteries which need to be replaced are from the original five which were replaced in 1999. The veins they used have just worn out. We had hoped that first by pass would have lasted longer than 8 years. At least this by pass surgery is being entered upon in a calm, informed manner. The one in '99 was an emergency surgery in the middle of the night!
Your kind comments are so warming to me and to my dad as well. I have been printing them out and taking them to the hospital to read to him. He and my mom were struck at how strangers from all over the world are lifting him up in prayer. Thank you all once again.
Happy Birthday Josh!
Edited at 2:37 ! Ok- I now know why it isn't wise for one to write and post blog entries at 3 in the morning after spending one stressful day at the hospital with a sick loved one! I posted the wrong year for my son's birthdate! LOL I laughed so hard when I signed on today to read the comments that were left here, and my own son had to tell me in his comment that he was NOT born in 1997, but 1987!! How can he be 20 if he was born in 1997? That is the year of my 2nd son's birth, so please cut me some slack!
Josh Rios and Josh Vernoy in hammocks in Venezuela!
Fourth of July Sunday!
Josh,3rd from left, with Vernoy cousins!
2005- High School Graduation. Josh in gold with friend Hyondoe.
Josh in his cap and gown!
I get a hug after his first sermon!
Taking baby Josh home!
Modeling hats in a shop in Queretaro, Mexico!
Josh and Shane with our beloved dog, Chance!
The first time Agustin saw and held his son (3 months old)!
Easter photo for 1989!
Josh and his dad take off on Sheikra at Busch Gardens!
My first born is 20 years old today! How did that happen?
A precious blessing came into our lives at 2:22 a.m. Monday morning on April 6, 1997,(see? this is what the edit above was about, it was really 1987!) in Welch, West Virginia! He surprised us by being born a little early and in much distress, but God performed a miracle for us and we are eternally thankful for this! Our son, Joshua Lee Rios, brings us great joy and many smiles. I have especially enjoyed watching him become a confident young man and a gentleman! He has a heart for God and approaches most things with passion and fervor. My prayer for him is that he will be a faithful servant of Christ, putting HIM first in all he does.
Today, Friday, we will follow a tradition that Josh himself started - a birthday trip to Busch Gardens! At 20, I thought he would want something a little different, but boy was I wrong! He came to me and said, "Mom, can we all just go to B.G. on my birthday? Uncle Johnny said I can have the day off and he and Shawn will even come join us."So it was decided that's what we would do and have our traditional meal of barbecue ribs from the Smokehouse restaurant! My nephew, Joshua Vernoy, will get to join us after classes too! I was a little worried we would have to postpone this birthday trip, thinking my dad would be in surgery Friday. It looks as though surgery wont' be until Monday, so I think we should go ahead and enjoy this 20th birthday which will only roll around once for a special young man!
To Josh - I love you son and am so very proud of you. Your dad says he couldn't ask for a better son. God has blessed you with certain gifts that are unique to only you. Have a great and fun day.
Love Forever,
Mom and Dad
Josh in his cap and gown!
I get a hug after his first sermon!
Taking baby Josh home!
Modeling hats in a shop in Queretaro, Mexico!
Josh and Shane with our beloved dog, Chance!
The first time Agustin saw and held his son (3 months old)!
Easter photo for 1989!
Josh and his dad take off on Sheikra at Busch Gardens!
My first born is 20 years old today! How did that happen? A precious blessing came into our lives at 2:22 a.m. Monday morning on April 6, 1997,(see? this is what the edit above was about, it was really 1987!) in Welch, West Virginia! He surprised us by being born a little early and in much distress, but God performed a miracle for us and we are eternally thankful for this! Our son, Joshua Lee Rios, brings us great joy and many smiles. I have especially enjoyed watching him become a confident young man and a gentleman! He has a heart for God and approaches most things with passion and fervor. My prayer for him is that he will be a faithful servant of Christ, putting HIM first in all he does.
Today, Friday, we will follow a tradition that Josh himself started - a birthday trip to Busch Gardens! At 20, I thought he would want something a little different, but boy was I wrong! He came to me and said, "Mom, can we all just go to B.G. on my birthday? Uncle Johnny said I can have the day off and he and Shawn will even come join us."So it was decided that's what we would do and have our traditional meal of barbecue ribs from the Smokehouse restaurant! My nephew, Joshua Vernoy, will get to join us after classes too! I was a little worried we would have to postpone this birthday trip, thinking my dad would be in surgery Friday. It looks as though surgery wont' be until Monday, so I think we should go ahead and enjoy this 20th birthday which will only roll around once for a special young man!
To Josh - I love you son and am so very proud of you. Your dad says he couldn't ask for a better son. God has blessed you with certain gifts that are unique to only you. Have a great and fun day.
Love Forever,
Mom and Dad
Pray for Dad's Comfort
I finally got home from the hospital at 1:30 ish tonight. Thanks so much for the wonderful words of comments and especially for the prayers. They are what got us through this tough day.
It seemed to be a day of waiting and calling and more waiting; and for my dear daddy, a day of poking and prodding, and pricking and ... well if you have spent a little time in a hospital with a patient or as a patient, you know the drill.
They found two blocked arteries during the catherization today. Now remember, Dad had 5 bypasses back in 1999. We were not able to see the cardio vascular surgeon today as we had hoped, but he sure put pre-op tests on the fast track. Dad's primary care Dr. came by for rounds and said there was something suspicious about the tear in the aorta! I wasn't in the room to ask questions at that time. I wish I had been there.
Later, a nurse practitioner came in and said due to the finding of the blockages, the cardiologist and surgeon were studying the films to decide as to what would be the best procedure for dad; stints or bypasses. They were leaning toward bypasses. Mom, Dad, and I gave her a look of shock as we hadn't heard the words "blockage and bypass surgery" yet! Dad slept through his cath and all the way back to his room. Mom had stepped out to the Critical Care Unit waiting room to wait with two friends for dad's return from the procedure. It seems that since Dad was still sleeping, he didn't get to hear anything about the findings! So we were taken aback with the words "double by pass surgery"! She apologized for being the one to spring the news on us, as she thought dad had conversed with he Dr. after his cath. Well, we digested that a moment, then moved on.
My poor dad was so exhausted by the end of the day. He had the CAT scan Wed. night after being treated in the emergency room. First thing Thursday morning, they performed the cath on him. Once back in his room, a couple of lung specialists came in to listen to his breathing and to prod and poke dad on his left side. It seems the CAT scan showed three spots on his lungs. Final analysis was they were old from days gone by, possibly because dad smoked in his youth up until his salvation in the sixties.
A technician came in soon after to perform an ultra-sound on both of his carotid arteries. This was took a half hour or more to complete.
A techinician came in to have him perform a 15 minute breathing test as part of pre-op.
The nurses through out the day did all the normal prodding and poking, checking where the cath tube was inserted, making dad cough, shots, pills, oxygen...but dad is not a complainer and he endured like a real trooper!
He had a TB test and more blood drawn before I hugged him goodnight and left to let him rest. I was blessed to get a couple of different occasions to be alone with him today. When we told the new nurse on duty that we were waiting and hoping to see a Dr. to find out what our next plan of action would be, she said she had the report that nothing would be done before Monday! I don't know if its due to having a full schedule for the heart surgeon, or because its a holiday weekend. One wonders. It's in God's hands though.
Rita, the last thing I told him was that you had called and told me to give him a hug especially from you. I could tell that meant a lot to him!
We had been told the surgeon sometimes doesn't get to pop into the rooms until midnight. Mom insisted on waiting around until then! Finally at about 12:45 we all headed our separate ways. We had a few very funny moments in the waiting room tonight! For those of you who know our family, it will come as no surprise to you that there were times we were afraid of being kicked out of the hospital for being too noisy or too happy! At one point tonight, my 2 sons and hubby and I were there with Mom. My nephew and his girlfriend were there and my brother John. We had the waiting room to ourselves for quite awhile and dad was resting in his room. We made some pretty powerful memories! I took some photos of the craziness that ensued as we all got tired and "juiced" from the caffeine we were taking in!
I know my sister and family are with us in spirit. I wish I could twinkle my nose and bring her and Jackie here from their perspective countries. I have to rest in the fact that God knows their hearts and will bring them comfort. I'm so sorry sis that you aren't here where you would like to be right now.
One more thing for tonight. I'd like to share a real blessing with you all. Please go to http://www.crowniesmom.blogspot.com/ to read a wonderful tribute one of the members of my dad's church wrote about him today. Thanks, more news tomorrow I'm sure.
I'm so sorry this was extremely long!
It seemed to be a day of waiting and calling and more waiting; and for my dear daddy, a day of poking and prodding, and pricking and ... well if you have spent a little time in a hospital with a patient or as a patient, you know the drill.
They found two blocked arteries during the catherization today. Now remember, Dad had 5 bypasses back in 1999. We were not able to see the cardio vascular surgeon today as we had hoped, but he sure put pre-op tests on the fast track. Dad's primary care Dr. came by for rounds and said there was something suspicious about the tear in the aorta! I wasn't in the room to ask questions at that time. I wish I had been there.
Later, a nurse practitioner came in and said due to the finding of the blockages, the cardiologist and surgeon were studying the films to decide as to what would be the best procedure for dad; stints or bypasses. They were leaning toward bypasses. Mom, Dad, and I gave her a look of shock as we hadn't heard the words "blockage and bypass surgery" yet! Dad slept through his cath and all the way back to his room. Mom had stepped out to the Critical Care Unit waiting room to wait with two friends for dad's return from the procedure. It seems that since Dad was still sleeping, he didn't get to hear anything about the findings! So we were taken aback with the words "double by pass surgery"! She apologized for being the one to spring the news on us, as she thought dad had conversed with he Dr. after his cath. Well, we digested that a moment, then moved on.
My poor dad was so exhausted by the end of the day. He had the CAT scan Wed. night after being treated in the emergency room. First thing Thursday morning, they performed the cath on him. Once back in his room, a couple of lung specialists came in to listen to his breathing and to prod and poke dad on his left side. It seems the CAT scan showed three spots on his lungs. Final analysis was they were old from days gone by, possibly because dad smoked in his youth up until his salvation in the sixties.
A technician came in soon after to perform an ultra-sound on both of his carotid arteries. This was took a half hour or more to complete.
A techinician came in to have him perform a 15 minute breathing test as part of pre-op.
The nurses through out the day did all the normal prodding and poking, checking where the cath tube was inserted, making dad cough, shots, pills, oxygen...but dad is not a complainer and he endured like a real trooper!
He had a TB test and more blood drawn before I hugged him goodnight and left to let him rest. I was blessed to get a couple of different occasions to be alone with him today. When we told the new nurse on duty that we were waiting and hoping to see a Dr. to find out what our next plan of action would be, she said she had the report that nothing would be done before Monday! I don't know if its due to having a full schedule for the heart surgeon, or because its a holiday weekend. One wonders. It's in God's hands though.
Rita, the last thing I told him was that you had called and told me to give him a hug especially from you. I could tell that meant a lot to him!
We had been told the surgeon sometimes doesn't get to pop into the rooms until midnight. Mom insisted on waiting around until then! Finally at about 12:45 we all headed our separate ways. We had a few very funny moments in the waiting room tonight! For those of you who know our family, it will come as no surprise to you that there were times we were afraid of being kicked out of the hospital for being too noisy or too happy! At one point tonight, my 2 sons and hubby and I were there with Mom. My nephew and his girlfriend were there and my brother John. We had the waiting room to ourselves for quite awhile and dad was resting in his room. We made some pretty powerful memories! I took some photos of the craziness that ensued as we all got tired and "juiced" from the caffeine we were taking in!
I know my sister and family are with us in spirit. I wish I could twinkle my nose and bring her and Jackie here from their perspective countries. I have to rest in the fact that God knows their hearts and will bring them comfort. I'm so sorry sis that you aren't here where you would like to be right now.
One more thing for tonight. I'd like to share a real blessing with you all. Please go to http://www.crowniesmom.blogspot.com/ to read a wonderful tribute one of the members of my dad's church wrote about him today. Thanks, more news tomorrow I'm sure.
I'm so sorry this was extremely long!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Heart Attack
Hi All!
Thanks for all the warm and wonderful comments and promises of prayer you left for me to find here today. God bless you all.
It was determined this morning that Dad had a heart attack yesterday. He is in having a cath now to define the next step to take. When I know more, of course I will keep you updated.
Here is a link to some helpful information in understanding the tear in the aorta. It seems it sometimes can be treated with drug therapy.
http://www.answers.com/topic/aortic-dissection
Thanks for all the warm and wonderful comments and promises of prayer you left for me to find here today. God bless you all.
It was determined this morning that Dad had a heart attack yesterday. He is in having a cath now to define the next step to take. When I know more, of course I will keep you updated.
Here is a link to some helpful information in understanding the tear in the aorta. It seems it sometimes can be treated with drug therapy.
http://www.answers.com/topic/aortic-dissection
Prayer Request!
Dad with my son Josh.Well, it's true. You never know what a day will bring. I would appreciate prayers for my dear daddy, Pastor Jack Riffe, who was hospitalized last night.
It has actually been a difficult week already for my parents. Their church pays their way each year for them to attend the Crown College Bible Conference in Powell, Tennesse. They had to spend almost $500.00 on their car yesterday for 2 new tires, balance, oil change, and also a major hose that was leaking water into the front passenger floorboard had to be repaired. It appears they won't be attending this year. I am thankful, however, that the Lord allowed Dad's illness to happen before they left town and were away from all his physicians.
My nephew called Wednesday afternoon around 5 p.m. to tell me while having just spoken to my mom on the phone, she broke down and started crying. She proceeded to tell him she was just on the way to the emergency room with his grandpa, my father. He had been experiencing chest pains all day and burping of all things. About two years ago we had a similar scare which turned out to be a gall bladder attack. Also, bear in mind that about seven years ago my dad had five bypasses! But today, he said the burps were not coming from the stomach, but more from the chest! Once in the emergency room, he was given a nitro glycerin tablet. This reduced the pain and the burping. However, he was not totally out of pain, so morphine was then administered. He was quite happy that he was getting reprieve from his arthritis pain through all this! He will probably have the best night's sleep that he has had in awhile! Imagine, not feeling all that arthritis pain! I think when I visit him later today, I may have to ask him if he is willing to share with me! *giggles* OOPS! Anyway, back to the serious stuff - a CAT scan revealed a tear in his aorta and he has also developed a heart murmur which he never had before. His Primary care physician was called and paid him a visit. A heart specialist at Tampa General also checked him out. His own heart doctor was called and told the hospital to put dad into the Critical Care Unit for the night.
My friend, Kim, googled 'a tear in the aorta' and found that it is corrected with sutures, so I think dad may have a little surgery going on later today. Please pray as often as you can. We know he is totally in God's hands. He is a dear man of God, spoken of by many as being the most humble person they have ever met, yet so full of wisdom! He will be 71 years old in June.
Christmas Eve a few years ago, with my two sons.
Shane L*O*V*E*S giving his grandpa his diabetic shots! He says, "Gramps, is it time for me to make you cry like a baby?"
Dad holding Josh some 19 years ago!
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Link to Video of Roger Bennett's Memorial Service
I know a few of you who read my blog may be interested in the link below, so I thought I would post it today. I watched the entire service. It was wonderful!
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Quoted from an article by Singing news editor Danny Jones:
"The 2 p.m. service at Brentwood Baptist Church began slightly late, as church technicians were scrambling to get the on-line streaming service back up and running. Just a few minutes prior, over 50,000 hits were registered within the span of one second--a load that was just too great at that point.
"Even with many people working feverishly to restore webservers, there were many who were unable to access the streaming video of Roger Bennett's Memorial Service on March21, 2007. The family has made the service available for On-Demand Viewing. You can get to the streaming feed byclicking on the link below. With some email programs, you may have to copy and paste the entire link into your webbrowser.
http://tinyurl.com/2fqr6o
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Quoted from an article by Singing news editor Danny Jones:
"The 2 p.m. service at Brentwood Baptist Church began slightly late, as church technicians were scrambling to get the on-line streaming service back up and running. Just a few minutes prior, over 50,000 hits were registered within the span of one second--a load that was just too great at that point.
"Even with many people working feverishly to restore webservers, there were many who were unable to access the streaming video of Roger Bennett's Memorial Service on March21, 2007. The family has made the service available for On-Demand Viewing. You can get to the streaming feed byclicking on the link below. With some email programs, you may have to copy and paste the entire link into your webbrowser.
http://tinyurl.com/2fqr6o
Spring Scenery in Iran
Good Morning Ya'll! I am so happy and touched! My sister told me via Instant Message that I must get on over to Serendip's blog to see her latest post. When I got there, tears sprang into my eyes as I saw this beautiful photo of Spring in Iran in honor of ME! I felt so honored and was overcome with a need to share the beautiful scene. Use the link below to see a side of Iran that I know I have never seen on the news.
Bereft: For Wonderful Pam#links
Bereft: For Wonderful Pam#links
About Passover
Lately, I have become intrigued with the Passover and the beautiful meaning behind each portion of the Seder. I was thrilled to find the following link! If you don't have time to read the entire piece, then please at least scroll down to the symbols of the feast. I am going to incorporate it into our lessons today. Enjoy!
http://www.geocities.com/capecanaveral/lab/6562/apologetics/haggadah.html
http://www.geocities.com/capecanaveral/lab/6562/apologetics/haggadah.html
Monday, April 02, 2007
WOW! Here is someone who really understands Homeschool Moms!
Home School Mothers: the Beatrice Brigade
John Mark ReynoldsEducation, Politics03.29.2007
Hilary Clinton is running for President and using her gender to raise money at every turn.
Recently, Geraldine Ferraro was brought back from the Land of Misfit Political Candidates to raise money for Hilary (!) by reminding us all that she was the first woman to run on a major party slate . . . if the Mondale candidacy sweeping its way through D.C. and Minnesota counts as major.
Hilary (!) is earnest as a tooth ache and determined to show all those smug boys from the fifties that she can win. She probably cannot, but it is depressing to watch her try. You have to pity Hilary (!) married to Bill and trying to look like she doesn’t mind . . . any of it. She wants to be a feminist icon, but if she gets some power in exchange for standing by her man she will be a story as old as Cleopatra.
When the women in the news are Anna Nicole Smith and Hilary (!) a traditional Christian can feel glum about the state of our culture. Both women have been exploited and both have tried to turn that exploitation to their own advantage. Both were obviously unhappy and now one is gone too soon . . . and the other has lonely eyes in a face with a jaw that seems hinged to pour forth platitudes like some sad muppet forced to repeat lines written by a handler.
Whenever I feel very bad, I make sure to speak to home school mothers. These women represent something new. They are not feminists, a phrase they most often reject with scorn. Most live in very traditional households where the husband is the head of the family. However, they are certainly not Donna Reed door mats waiting at home in pearls and high heels for their lord and master to arrive home. They are very strong and fiercely opinionated. They are incredibly well read, devouring more books a year, than most U.C. students read in four years. Book a talk with Plato scholar to hear about big ideas and they show up.
So what are they? They remind me most of the strong women of my great-grandmother’s generation in West Virginia, who could run a farm, fix the roof, write hymns for the church, and who had never heard of bulimia. They did not worry about their body image, because they were secure in the love of their strong men, none of whom would have been allowed a metrosexual makeover if they had wanted it. Those strong women could never have burned a bra, because they never bothered trying to wear pin up girl underwear. Ask those women what they thought and you heard more than you wanted to hear. I knew a few of these women, the last of the old pioneer stock, but only when they were old and tired.
The home school mothers of California are not old. Sometimes their brutal schedules may make them tired, but they are up for more in the morning. When I talk to them I quickly realize, they care more about idea than rhetoric. These women solve problems every day. They educated their children in highly creative ways, inventing curriculum, programs, and social events out of nothing but their talent. They are neither dowdy nor fashion conscience. Their dress is most often sensible, but feminine. They innovate, but within the bounds of tradition. What are they? God bless us, they are ladies, a group many thought had gone extinct around the time of the sinking of Titanic.
In one sense, their lives are a bloodless martyrdom. The media mostly forgets them except for the occasional condescending piece in the Times. They fit no stereotypes, being too numerous and too interesting, so they are ignored. They sacrifice for the well fare of their children.
Talents that could vitalize a corporate board room are turned to teaching children to read. Their children, of course, take such sacrifice for granted. Their mothers make it safe for them to be blissfully unaware of their blessings. So these strong women sacrifice everything our culture deems important. They have no resume inflating career. Yet they give new life and meaning to all the Victorian platitudes lodged, because they are true, in the back of all our minds. “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.”
These are kitchen table Socrates. They don’t trust the government schools that spend billions to produce cookie cutter children. These women use cookie cutters on cookies not children. Like Socrates, they despise uniformity in education and people who teach for money and not love of students . There children are producing reems of stories, hours of music, original plays, and a whole new civilization. If our boys are overseas defending the West, these women are home renewing it.
Home school mothers are the heart of a traditionalist revolution that is driving life back into the homes. To these women, and the men blessed to be married to them, homes are no longer assets or places to share a microwave dinner at the end of an exhausting day of separation. Spreading like some beneficial virus, men and women are returning basic educational, economic, and social functions to home where they have always belonged.
A great poet was brought to see God through the example of one godly woman. Dante had his Beatrice and it was enough. It is harder for men in our materialistic age, so God has raised up thousands of such women. It is time to take a good hard look at what these heroes without epic poets are doing in quiet. I put very little trust in princes, whether elected or not. Rather, if the oldest stories are true the fate of the Republic rests more with these home school mothers.
There are now millions of these strong, independent, God fearing women in the United States. They ask nothing of government, but to be left alone.
These women are not impressed with stardom and glamor, many do not even own televisions. Their men work long hours in their own, often not very glamorous, businesses so that their wives can save the West. The men they admire get things done with decency and honor. They are often quiet men, but as sound as the state credit used to be. Their wives chose them for their virtues, not their muscles. Home school mothers are fiercely liberated and proudly traditional.
Seeing God in Beatrice allowed Dante to find his way back from darkness. Seeing God in these home school mothers could show any man the way back to decency and honor. I know, because I am married to a home school mother and she fires my imagination, gives me hope, and is educating the future of our line.
Mayhaps the West is in for difficult days . . . I could be wrong and Hilary (!) might win, but I would still bet the children of the Beatrice Brigade will prevail in the end. The sacrifice of such matrons cannot be for nothing . . . and there is more real life in one of their questions than I have ever heard in a Hilary (!) listening tour.
Take heart gentleman. They are out there, our Beatrice Brigade, doing the work of civilizing the next generation of culture warriors. My wife, I realized one day, was to me the Fairest Flower in all of Christendom . . . and so she is and so every Beatrice is to the one who sees her well. The land, every corner of it, are filled with such gentle souls . . fair flowers of Christ’s kingdom doing God’s work for God’s pay.
Thank you.
(Modified from an earlier piece.)
John Mark ReynoldsEducation, Politics03.29.2007
Hilary Clinton is running for President and using her gender to raise money at every turn.
Recently, Geraldine Ferraro was brought back from the Land of Misfit Political Candidates to raise money for Hilary (!) by reminding us all that she was the first woman to run on a major party slate . . . if the Mondale candidacy sweeping its way through D.C. and Minnesota counts as major.
Hilary (!) is earnest as a tooth ache and determined to show all those smug boys from the fifties that she can win. She probably cannot, but it is depressing to watch her try. You have to pity Hilary (!) married to Bill and trying to look like she doesn’t mind . . . any of it. She wants to be a feminist icon, but if she gets some power in exchange for standing by her man she will be a story as old as Cleopatra.
When the women in the news are Anna Nicole Smith and Hilary (!) a traditional Christian can feel glum about the state of our culture. Both women have been exploited and both have tried to turn that exploitation to their own advantage. Both were obviously unhappy and now one is gone too soon . . . and the other has lonely eyes in a face with a jaw that seems hinged to pour forth platitudes like some sad muppet forced to repeat lines written by a handler.
Whenever I feel very bad, I make sure to speak to home school mothers. These women represent something new. They are not feminists, a phrase they most often reject with scorn. Most live in very traditional households where the husband is the head of the family. However, they are certainly not Donna Reed door mats waiting at home in pearls and high heels for their lord and master to arrive home. They are very strong and fiercely opinionated. They are incredibly well read, devouring more books a year, than most U.C. students read in four years. Book a talk with Plato scholar to hear about big ideas and they show up.
So what are they? They remind me most of the strong women of my great-grandmother’s generation in West Virginia, who could run a farm, fix the roof, write hymns for the church, and who had never heard of bulimia. They did not worry about their body image, because they were secure in the love of their strong men, none of whom would have been allowed a metrosexual makeover if they had wanted it. Those strong women could never have burned a bra, because they never bothered trying to wear pin up girl underwear. Ask those women what they thought and you heard more than you wanted to hear. I knew a few of these women, the last of the old pioneer stock, but only when they were old and tired.
The home school mothers of California are not old. Sometimes their brutal schedules may make them tired, but they are up for more in the morning. When I talk to them I quickly realize, they care more about idea than rhetoric. These women solve problems every day. They educated their children in highly creative ways, inventing curriculum, programs, and social events out of nothing but their talent. They are neither dowdy nor fashion conscience. Their dress is most often sensible, but feminine. They innovate, but within the bounds of tradition. What are they? God bless us, they are ladies, a group many thought had gone extinct around the time of the sinking of Titanic.
In one sense, their lives are a bloodless martyrdom. The media mostly forgets them except for the occasional condescending piece in the Times. They fit no stereotypes, being too numerous and too interesting, so they are ignored. They sacrifice for the well fare of their children.
Talents that could vitalize a corporate board room are turned to teaching children to read. Their children, of course, take such sacrifice for granted. Their mothers make it safe for them to be blissfully unaware of their blessings. So these strong women sacrifice everything our culture deems important. They have no resume inflating career. Yet they give new life and meaning to all the Victorian platitudes lodged, because they are true, in the back of all our minds. “The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.”
These are kitchen table Socrates. They don’t trust the government schools that spend billions to produce cookie cutter children. These women use cookie cutters on cookies not children. Like Socrates, they despise uniformity in education and people who teach for money and not love of students . There children are producing reems of stories, hours of music, original plays, and a whole new civilization. If our boys are overseas defending the West, these women are home renewing it.
Home school mothers are the heart of a traditionalist revolution that is driving life back into the homes. To these women, and the men blessed to be married to them, homes are no longer assets or places to share a microwave dinner at the end of an exhausting day of separation. Spreading like some beneficial virus, men and women are returning basic educational, economic, and social functions to home where they have always belonged.
A great poet was brought to see God through the example of one godly woman. Dante had his Beatrice and it was enough. It is harder for men in our materialistic age, so God has raised up thousands of such women. It is time to take a good hard look at what these heroes without epic poets are doing in quiet. I put very little trust in princes, whether elected or not. Rather, if the oldest stories are true the fate of the Republic rests more with these home school mothers.
There are now millions of these strong, independent, God fearing women in the United States. They ask nothing of government, but to be left alone.
These women are not impressed with stardom and glamor, many do not even own televisions. Their men work long hours in their own, often not very glamorous, businesses so that their wives can save the West. The men they admire get things done with decency and honor. They are often quiet men, but as sound as the state credit used to be. Their wives chose them for their virtues, not their muscles. Home school mothers are fiercely liberated and proudly traditional.
Seeing God in Beatrice allowed Dante to find his way back from darkness. Seeing God in these home school mothers could show any man the way back to decency and honor. I know, because I am married to a home school mother and she fires my imagination, gives me hope, and is educating the future of our line.
Mayhaps the West is in for difficult days . . . I could be wrong and Hilary (!) might win, but I would still bet the children of the Beatrice Brigade will prevail in the end. The sacrifice of such matrons cannot be for nothing . . . and there is more real life in one of their questions than I have ever heard in a Hilary (!) listening tour.
Take heart gentleman. They are out there, our Beatrice Brigade, doing the work of civilizing the next generation of culture warriors. My wife, I realized one day, was to me the Fairest Flower in all of Christendom . . . and so she is and so every Beatrice is to the one who sees her well. The land, every corner of it, are filled with such gentle souls . . fair flowers of Christ’s kingdom doing God’s work for God’s pay.
Thank you.
(Modified from an earlier piece.)
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Win A Dyson Slim Vacuum!!
http://www.5minutesformom.com/1343/dyson/ is having a contest! Would you like to win Dyson Slim Vacuum? All you need to do is link over to the 5 minutes for mom website and sign up on Mr. Linky!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Quick Check In
I'm so happy to see you all enjoyed my Red Skelton Jokes post! I loved watching his show as a small girl.
This will be a short note just to thank all who have been praying for our revival meetings. God has surely met with us this week. Tonight (Fri.) is our last service, but prayerfully not the last of our revival! We know the evangelist doesn't bring revival all nice and neat in his brief case. He brings the sermons God lays on his heart for us. God brings the revival if we allow Him. I really feel many have allowed true revival this week. My parents and my son Josh have driven up from Tampa several nights this week to be in church with us. It has been a blessing to all be in a service together again! I can't wait to share more later.
This will be a short note just to thank all who have been praying for our revival meetings. God has surely met with us this week. Tonight (Fri.) is our last service, but prayerfully not the last of our revival! We know the evangelist doesn't bring revival all nice and neat in his brief case. He brings the sermons God lays on his heart for us. God brings the revival if we allow Him. I really feel many have allowed true revival this week. My parents and my son Josh have driven up from Tampa several nights this week to be in church with us. It has been a blessing to all be in a service together again! I can't wait to share more later.
My mom, Loretta.
My Dad, Pastor Jack Riffe, with my son, Josh Rios.This was taken after Josh's third time to preach.God bless you all! Thanks for all the great comments you have been leaving. They truly help make my days better!
Thursday, March 29, 2007
RED SKELTON'S RECIPE FOR THE PERFECT MARRIAGE
I just found these to be so hilarious. I hope you do as well! My favorite has to be number 8! Please let me know which are your favorites!
1. Two times a week, we go to a nice restaurant, have a
Little beverage, good food and companionship.
She goes on Tuesdays, I go on Fridays.
2. We also sleep in separate beds.
Hers is in California and mine is in Texas.
3. I take my wife everywhere.....
But she keeps finding her way back.
4. I asked my wife where she wanted to go for our
Anniversary. "Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!" She said.
So I suggested the kitchen.
5. We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops.
6. She has an electric blender, electric toaster and electric Bread maker.
She said "There are too many gadgets and no place
To sit down!" .. So I bought her an electric chair.
7. My wife told me the car wasn't running well because
There was water in the carburetor.
I asked where the car was; she told me "In the lake."
8. She got a mud pack and looked great for two days.
Then the mud fell off.
9. She ran after the garbage truck, yelling "Am I too late For the garbage?"
. The driver said "No, jump in!"
10. Remember: Marriage is the number one cause of divorce.
11. I married Miss Right. I just didn't know her
First name was Always.
12. I haven't spoken to my wife in 18 months.
I don't like to interrupt her.
13. The last fight was my fault though.
My wife asked "What's on the TV?"
I said "Dust!"
Can't you just hear Mr. Skelton say all of these?
I love it.........these were the good old days
When humor didn't have to start with a four letter word........ Just clean
and simple fun
1. Two times a week, we go to a nice restaurant, have a
Little beverage, good food and companionship.
She goes on Tuesdays, I go on Fridays.
2. We also sleep in separate beds.
Hers is in California and mine is in Texas.
3. I take my wife everywhere.....
But she keeps finding her way back.
4. I asked my wife where she wanted to go for our
Anniversary. "Somewhere I haven't been in a long time!" She said.
So I suggested the kitchen.
5. We always hold hands. If I let go, she shops.
6. She has an electric blender, electric toaster and electric Bread maker.
She said "There are too many gadgets and no place
To sit down!" .. So I bought her an electric chair.
7. My wife told me the car wasn't running well because
There was water in the carburetor.
I asked where the car was; she told me "In the lake."
8. She got a mud pack and looked great for two days.
Then the mud fell off.
9. She ran after the garbage truck, yelling "Am I too late For the garbage?"
. The driver said "No, jump in!"
10. Remember: Marriage is the number one cause of divorce.
11. I married Miss Right. I just didn't know her
First name was Always.
12. I haven't spoken to my wife in 18 months.
I don't like to interrupt her.
13. The last fight was my fault though.
My wife asked "What's on the TV?"
I said "Dust!"
Can't you just hear Mr. Skelton say all of these?
I love it.........these were the good old days
When humor didn't have to start with a four letter word........ Just clean
and simple fun
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
A Few Precious Moments
I have had an unusual week. I haven't blogged as much as I normally do, but believe me when I say blogging was on my mind a lot! I just didn't have the time or if I did get a little time, I had to use it to rest these weary ol' joints of mine!
Last Tuesday, Shane finally got into the Dermatologist for the dark spot on his temple. Guess what everybody? It's just an inverted mole called a blue nevus! I was so relieved! The Doc said it looks blue due to the way it reflects the light. He said a whole lot more too but it went right over my head! I was just so relieved that is wasn't a growth of suspicious cells or something that required surgery! I also had the doc look at a spot on Shane's head. He said it's just a mole and to keep an eye on it. It seems Shane is going to have lots of moles just like his father does. Then I pointed out the patch of thicker skin on the inside bridge of Shane's nose. Just an inherited skin condition, blah, blah,blah. Then I showed the doc the bumps on Shane's upper arms. The Doc said he had them too. It's common. So he basically said he didn't want to see us again until Shane got acne or one of his moles changed! What a relief and what a precious gift from God! LOL
Wednesday night, we had three college students come over after church for food and a movie. I had made some Crock Pot Jambalaya from a recipe I snagged from Oh Fiddle dee dee's blog. It was delicious and everyone loved it. The kids were on Spring Break and staying at my parent's home, so no real curfew! One was my nephew, Josh Vernoy. We had a great time! Usually when the kids are here late, my hubby has to "give up the ghost" and go to bed. Not this time however. He was off Thursday, so he forced himself to stay up for the movie. We all had a precious time together.
Friday, while I was on the front porch discussing our lawn with our TrueGreen guy, I knew I had to witness to him before he left. He himself was very open and in a very talkative mood. I heard about his 22 month old son, lots of his family history, etc.I had noticed Shane coming to the front door for a while and then leave for a bit. He did this several times, sometimes making a comment and joining in on mine and Nick's conversation. One time though, I heard Shane whisper, "Mom", so I turned to him and he slipped a gospel tract into my hand. My heart smiled within me and I felt so wonderfully blessed in that moment! I will cherish that "precious moment" forever in my heart and mind! Here was my little man taking the initiative to witness to Nick. The best part is that Nick received the tract very warmly, looked through it, then promised me he would read it in its entirety when he got home. I told him it was a gospel tract when I handed it to him and he started pouring out about not having gone to church in so long, but had been raised Southern Baptist. I kindly laid my hand on his arm and sweetly said, "That's not really what it's all about is it Nick? The important thing isn't whether you have been in church or not, but whether you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and knowing for sure that you are going to Heaven when you die. This tract explains how you can know beyond a shadow of a doubt and it will give you scriptures as well." We spoke a little more on the subject. I invited him to our family oriented church but he lives in Lakeland, which is quite a distance away. We finished our paper work concerning the business of the yard, then as he walked away, he reiterated that he would read the tract at home. I hope he did. I have added Nick to my prayer list for salvation.I've told Shane how happy I was that he realized we had a perfect opportunity for sharing Christ right in our own front door. He really blessed my heart that day!
Sunday, our church began revival meetings with Evangelist Dave McCracken. What a unique man of God with a unique style of preaching. He has brought us 4 very powerful sermons so far. After tonight's service, he felt led to ask for testimonies. It was amazing! One man after another stood up and shared how God has been working in their lives. One confessed his complacency, another, crying like a baby, shared how he has been allowing work to keep him too busy. He said he remembers our pastor saying in the past, "If you are too busy for God, then you are TOO busy!" God really moved tonight and we were all talking after church about how we are anticipating Wednesday night's service! The altar has been full after each service. It has been precious! Please pray that true revival will break out in our church and community. I have asked God for it to begin with me.
Last Tuesday, Shane finally got into the Dermatologist for the dark spot on his temple. Guess what everybody? It's just an inverted mole called a blue nevus! I was so relieved! The Doc said it looks blue due to the way it reflects the light. He said a whole lot more too but it went right over my head! I was just so relieved that is wasn't a growth of suspicious cells or something that required surgery! I also had the doc look at a spot on Shane's head. He said it's just a mole and to keep an eye on it. It seems Shane is going to have lots of moles just like his father does. Then I pointed out the patch of thicker skin on the inside bridge of Shane's nose. Just an inherited skin condition, blah, blah,blah. Then I showed the doc the bumps on Shane's upper arms. The Doc said he had them too. It's common. So he basically said he didn't want to see us again until Shane got acne or one of his moles changed! What a relief and what a precious gift from God! LOL
Wednesday night, we had three college students come over after church for food and a movie. I had made some Crock Pot Jambalaya from a recipe I snagged from Oh Fiddle dee dee's blog. It was delicious and everyone loved it. The kids were on Spring Break and staying at my parent's home, so no real curfew! One was my nephew, Josh Vernoy. We had a great time! Usually when the kids are here late, my hubby has to "give up the ghost" and go to bed. Not this time however. He was off Thursday, so he forced himself to stay up for the movie. We all had a precious time together.
Friday, while I was on the front porch discussing our lawn with our TrueGreen guy, I knew I had to witness to him before he left. He himself was very open and in a very talkative mood. I heard about his 22 month old son, lots of his family history, etc.I had noticed Shane coming to the front door for a while and then leave for a bit. He did this several times, sometimes making a comment and joining in on mine and Nick's conversation. One time though, I heard Shane whisper, "Mom", so I turned to him and he slipped a gospel tract into my hand. My heart smiled within me and I felt so wonderfully blessed in that moment! I will cherish that "precious moment" forever in my heart and mind! Here was my little man taking the initiative to witness to Nick. The best part is that Nick received the tract very warmly, looked through it, then promised me he would read it in its entirety when he got home. I told him it was a gospel tract when I handed it to him and he started pouring out about not having gone to church in so long, but had been raised Southern Baptist. I kindly laid my hand on his arm and sweetly said, "That's not really what it's all about is it Nick? The important thing isn't whether you have been in church or not, but whether you have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, and knowing for sure that you are going to Heaven when you die. This tract explains how you can know beyond a shadow of a doubt and it will give you scriptures as well." We spoke a little more on the subject. I invited him to our family oriented church but he lives in Lakeland, which is quite a distance away. We finished our paper work concerning the business of the yard, then as he walked away, he reiterated that he would read the tract at home. I hope he did. I have added Nick to my prayer list for salvation.I've told Shane how happy I was that he realized we had a perfect opportunity for sharing Christ right in our own front door. He really blessed my heart that day!
Sunday, our church began revival meetings with Evangelist Dave McCracken. What a unique man of God with a unique style of preaching. He has brought us 4 very powerful sermons so far. After tonight's service, he felt led to ask for testimonies. It was amazing! One man after another stood up and shared how God has been working in their lives. One confessed his complacency, another, crying like a baby, shared how he has been allowing work to keep him too busy. He said he remembers our pastor saying in the past, "If you are too busy for God, then you are TOO busy!" God really moved tonight and we were all talking after church about how we are anticipating Wednesday night's service! The altar has been full after each service. It has been precious! Please pray that true revival will break out in our church and community. I have asked God for it to begin with me.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Love While You Can
One day someone special will be gone.
And on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of your bedroom,
you might be struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there
isn't any more.
No more hugs,
no more lucky moments to celebrate together,
no more phone calls just to chat,
No more "just one minute."
Sometimes, what we care about the most goes away.
Never to return before we can say good-bye, to say "I Love you."
So while we have it, it's best we love it.
And care for it and fix it when it's broken,
and take good care of it when it's sick.
This is true for marriage .... and friendships .
And children with bad report cards;
And dogs with bad hips;
And aging parents and grandparents.
We keep them because they are worth it,
Because we cherish them!
Some things we keep --
like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with.
There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.
Life is important, and so are the people we know
And so, we keep them close!
And on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of your bedroom,
you might be struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there
isn't any more.
No more hugs,
no more lucky moments to celebrate together,
no more phone calls just to chat,
No more "just one minute."
Sometimes, what we care about the most goes away.
Never to return before we can say good-bye, to say "I Love you."
So while we have it, it's best we love it.
And care for it and fix it when it's broken,
and take good care of it when it's sick.
This is true for marriage .... and friendships .
And children with bad report cards;
And dogs with bad hips;
And aging parents and grandparents.
We keep them because they are worth it,
Because we cherish them!
Some things we keep --
like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with.
There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what.
Life is important, and so are the people we know
And so, we keep them close!
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Smarten UP Ms. Walters!
When I read the following, I had to subdue the need to scream, and say a prayer for this woman! I just want to cry when I see so many hold an ungodly, trouble maker up in higher esteem than their own decent President. I just don't get it. Oh wouldn't it be wonderful to hear Ms. Walters or any of the other MSM (Main Stream Media) speak so kindly of our good President?
God help us!
Barbara Walters recently scored an exclusive interview with Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez. Here’s part of how she described the experience to Robin Roberts on Good Morning America:
Roberts: "Barbara, fresh off the plane. He is a very passionate man that's very apparent."
Walters: "Yes, but, you know, when you meet him, when you see him in the navy blue suit and not the red shirt that he's in, um, he's passionate about his dislike for George Bush. He does like this country and he's passionate about his feelings about America. And he feels that with a new President, that we can be friends. He cares very much about poverty. He's a socialist. What he's trying to do for all of Latin America, you know, they've been trying to do it for years, is to eliminate poverty. But this is not the crazy man that we have heard."
God help us!
Barbara Walters recently scored an exclusive interview with Venezuelan dictator Hugo Chavez. Here’s part of how she described the experience to Robin Roberts on Good Morning America:
Roberts: "Barbara, fresh off the plane. He is a very passionate man that's very apparent."
Walters: "Yes, but, you know, when you meet him, when you see him in the navy blue suit and not the red shirt that he's in, um, he's passionate about his dislike for George Bush. He does like this country and he's passionate about his feelings about America. And he feels that with a new President, that we can be friends. He cares very much about poverty. He's a socialist. What he's trying to do for all of Latin America, you know, they've been trying to do it for years, is to eliminate poverty. But this is not the crazy man that we have heard."
Friday, March 23, 2007
Socialism & Education
Many of you who read my sister's blog (www.jungle-hut.blogspot.com) are aware that President/Dictator Hugo Chavez is quickly turning Venezuela into a full blown socialistic country. One of Rita's earliest concerns was the mandate that all children ages 18 months to 18 years of age must attend a government school for at least 8 hours a day. We know that the younger you can get the child's mind, the easier it is to control them later. Most of us also know and would agree that parents understand and know what their children need far better than any government entity would.
The following came to me today from the "American Family Association". Please hold these families menioned here in your prayers.
How would you feel if a group of 15 fully armed police officers walked into your home, grabbed your 15-year-old daughter, and left without telling you where they were taking her? Not only that, but you soon found out that your daughter was being arrested because she was being home schooled, and she would not be allowed to come home until she was placed in a public school!This is already a reality for some families —not in America— but in Germany.
Melissa Busekros of Erlangen, Bavaria, was taken from her parents, Hubert and Gudrun Busekros. Why worry about this if it isn't in America? Because America is becoming like Europe more and more. Not only that, but here are two families who have nearly no hope that the government will listen to them. I don't like saying this because it seems so extreme, but if we continue on the way we are going this will be happening in America, unless we work to stop it now.
Using the same law, police recently took five "well-educated" children from their parents for the same reason. Police took into legal custody Rosine, Jotham, Kurt-Simon, Lovis and Ernst Brause, the children of Bert and Kathrin Brause. The state will not allow Bert and Kathrin to regain custody of their children unless they agree to place them in a public school.
The judge concluded that the children were well-educated but accused the parents of failing to provide their children with an education in a public school. The judge noted that one of the daughters expressed the same opinions as her father, stating that they have not had the chance to develop "independent personalities!"
Please take the following quote in context. I'm not trying to be an extremist, but a realist. One of the first acts by Adolf Hitler when he gained power in Germany was to create the governmental Ministry of Education and give it control of all schools and school-related issues. In 1937, Hitler said: "This Reich stands, and it is building itself up for the future, upon its youth. And this Reich will give its youth to no one, but will itself take youth and give to youth its (the state's) own education and its own upbringing."
The following came to me today from the "American Family Association". Please hold these families menioned here in your prayers.
How would you feel if a group of 15 fully armed police officers walked into your home, grabbed your 15-year-old daughter, and left without telling you where they were taking her? Not only that, but you soon found out that your daughter was being arrested because she was being home schooled, and she would not be allowed to come home until she was placed in a public school!This is already a reality for some families —not in America— but in Germany.
Melissa Busekros of Erlangen, Bavaria, was taken from her parents, Hubert and Gudrun Busekros. Why worry about this if it isn't in America? Because America is becoming like Europe more and more. Not only that, but here are two families who have nearly no hope that the government will listen to them. I don't like saying this because it seems so extreme, but if we continue on the way we are going this will be happening in America, unless we work to stop it now.
Using the same law, police recently took five "well-educated" children from their parents for the same reason. Police took into legal custody Rosine, Jotham, Kurt-Simon, Lovis and Ernst Brause, the children of Bert and Kathrin Brause. The state will not allow Bert and Kathrin to regain custody of their children unless they agree to place them in a public school.
The judge concluded that the children were well-educated but accused the parents of failing to provide their children with an education in a public school. The judge noted that one of the daughters expressed the same opinions as her father, stating that they have not had the chance to develop "independent personalities!"
Please take the following quote in context. I'm not trying to be an extremist, but a realist. One of the first acts by Adolf Hitler when he gained power in Germany was to create the governmental Ministry of Education and give it control of all schools and school-related issues. In 1937, Hitler said: "This Reich stands, and it is building itself up for the future, upon its youth. And this Reich will give its youth to no one, but will itself take youth and give to youth its (the state's) own education and its own upbringing."
Try This!
Just try this. It is from an orthopedic surgeon............This will boggle your mind and you will keep trying over And over again to see if you can out smart your foot, but you can't. It's Preprogrammed in your brain!
1. WITHOUT anyone watching you (they will think you are GOOFY) and while sitting where you are at your desk in front of your computer, Lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.
2. Now, while doing this, draw the number '6' In the air with your right hand. Your foot will change direction. I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about It!
You and I both know how stupid it is, but before the day Is done you are going to try it again, if you've not already done so.
Send it to your buddies to frustrate them too
1. WITHOUT anyone watching you (they will think you are GOOFY) and while sitting where you are at your desk in front of your computer, Lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.
2. Now, while doing this, draw the number '6' In the air with your right hand. Your foot will change direction. I told you so!!! And there's nothing you can do about It!
You and I both know how stupid it is, but before the day Is done you are going to try it again, if you've not already done so.
Send it to your buddies to frustrate them too
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
House For Sale
I found this ad for a lovely home today. You must click on the link and see it too! Once you're there, click once on scroll bar and it will continue scrolling on its own.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Our President in Enterprise After the Tornado
Unable to verify the account below or its source, but its just
one of those stories that "fits" the pattern that has emerged
about this apparantly honorable man that is the President..
I trust as it circulates on the net it will be confirmed
or exposed. Will keep my eyes on the "urban myth"
sites which are in the business of confirming or
debunking these stories.
Its refreshing to note most of those I've researched
about George Bush have been confirmed. Some are
listed below.
The returned salute at his helicopter to the Marine guard.
The returned salute at the hospital bed of a Col. Birdwell,
a soldier wounded as a result of the attack on the Pentagon.
His many visits to the survivors of those killed in action .
President Bush was reportedly one of 156 candidates
considered for the 2002 Peace Prize, which was awarded
in October 2002 to former President Jimmy Carter.
President Bush fulfills his promise to jog with a soldier
who lost his leg in Afghanistan.
one of those stories that "fits" the pattern that has emerged
about this apparantly honorable man that is the President..
I trust as it circulates on the net it will be confirmed
or exposed. Will keep my eyes on the "urban myth"
sites which are in the business of confirming or
debunking these stories.
Its refreshing to note most of those I've researched
about George Bush have been confirmed. Some are
listed below.
The returned salute at his helicopter to the Marine guard.
The returned salute at the hospital bed of a Col. Birdwell,
a soldier wounded as a result of the attack on the Pentagon.
His many visits to the survivors of those killed in action .
President Bush was reportedly one of 156 candidates
considered for the 2002 Peace Prize, which was awarded
in October 2002 to former President Jimmy Carter.
President Bush fulfills his promise to jog with a soldier
who lost his leg in Afghanistan.
A soldier at Walter Reed stuck his limb up to the President as
he was leaving after awarding medals to many of the soldiers,
and President Bush cupped his limb with both hands and said
"God Bless You." He then knelt down and kissed him on the
forehead.
A picture of President Bush hugging a 911 victim.
Subject: President in Enterprise
There is a man at Ridgecrest who is an ABI officer. He got up last night and told us about having the honor of being paired with one of the secret service men who were with President Bush Saturday in Enterprise. He said when they started walking through the rubble at the school they came upon four students waiting for the President. They were in an area where on the floor there was a emblem that read EHS Class of 65. When the President approached the students he asked which one of you are the president (I assume president of the student body)? One of of the girls kind of raised her hand and said I am then she hung her head and started to cry. President Bush wrapped his arms around her and the other three joined them. Barry, the ABI officer said President Bush started to cry and said "It's tough being the president isn't it." Barry said he talked with them a little longer. He said he was very close to the President but couldn't hear every word that was spoken, but he could tell that the President was quoting scripture. After a while the President started walking again and said he wanted the emblem preserved whatever it took. The Mayor then spoke up and said they would take care of it and President Bush turned to him and said "I was speaking to the President." I bet that the Mayor closed his mouth then!!! and then President Bush said "by the way where are my children"? The four students who were lagging behind came running up to him and walked the rest of the way over to the church with him. The media were sent to a different area Barry said. When President Bush got inside the church to meet with the families of those that had been killed the secret serviceman turned to Barry and said this is as far as we go. This is his time with them. Barry then asked him if the President was protected and the secret servicemen said yes, he is protected, but not by us. Barry could hardly contain himself as he was telling us this last night. He said he told the secret service man that he wished everyone could witness what he just did then they could see that the most powerful man in the United States was just another human being, a father, a comforter, a friend and had true compassion for these people. However the media does not portrait that, big surprise! Of course I don't tell this story with the humility that Barry did because he was there, but I thought you might like to hear it. You might want to share it
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