Welcome Back!

I have been kind of worried about one of my contacts and today, she popped back online. I am so glad she is back. Seems she was very ill for a while. She is one of my old Yahoo contacts who left before the ship began sinking and we kept in contact here and there. I was so glad when she showed up on Multiply. And I am really relieved she is all right.

So, welcome back, Annie!

Drop by and welcome Annie back at Grandmother's Home

This Place Looks Familiar. . . Oh, Right, Monday!

Yep. All day. Tomorrow is my "speech" day. Someone keep their fingers and toes crossed and say several prayers. I don't have a clue what to say to 100 people I don't know.

What a busy day I've had, too. I am so far behind on paperwork that I can't think straight! I stayed over an hour after work just to get 60 minutes of uninterrupted work done. I will take it off at the end of the week if all goes well. They won't pay me overtime and that's fine. A bit longer lunch hour or getting off a bit early is fine with me. I just need to get my work done.

I am really tired. I had plans tonight but the kids showed up and only just left 10 minutes ago. I really wish they wouldn't do that. I do enjoy having them around but I'm so tired I just wanted to relax and then go to bed. Now, I'll go to bed but it is late and I didnt' have any down time.

Storms are heading this way. I've shut off the air and opened windows with fans on each end of the house. We have to save whenever we can on the utility. Sarah found her one ring pool in the den and said "Cool, my cool." We took it in the back yard, poured about 8 gallons of warm water in it and she had a late night swim. Loved it. Sprinkle were falling but not enough to worry about. the air was a bit cooler but still warm. Thirty minutes in the "cool" then a dry off. I took photos but these are with my film camera and will need developing. I only have 10 rolls! I've decided to put them on disks so I can save on developing and utilize them in my albums. Far too many to get developed but this way I can pick the ones I like best and get them developed.

Well, bedtime is here. Hope you all have a great day, when it arrives in your part of the world. Remember at 9 a.m. central daylight time, I will be standing in front of 100 stranger to give a speech.

I'm pumped!

This was very alarming to me.

This  was sent to me by an online aquaintence. It is frightening. It is not a joke. Watch. And warn.

 

http://www.eyeblast.tv/public/video.aspx?RsrcID=2036

 

A New Chapter of Mist

Alice, you will be happy to know that I put up the chapter tonight. You can go read it and smile. I was closer than I thought to being done with it. See, I did work on it while I was on vacation. I must have done more than even I realized on it. I don't actually remember writing it.

For those not in the know, Mist is a novel I've been writing. . . well, for a while. Alice and her sister, Nancy were reading it online. I have it posted in a private blog on Blogger. Nancy passed away last year but Alice has stuck with me. I've been otherwise occupied or else in too much pain to write for several months. Summer is here though and my pain seems to have become much more bearable. Anyway, I posted a chapter tonight.

You may find post on this blog talking about Mist. I believe there is a tag regarding it. Sorry, but the blog is private and by invitation only. I have limited it, at Alice's urging last year, due to copyright concerns. My original reader were 10 people on 360. Most of them no longer read it and are no longer even contacts. My dear Alice is no fair weather friend and she has stuck with me, prodding me every step of the way, as Nancy did. I miss Nancy and I know Alice does, too.

I would like to bring Mist to a close and I think I am almost there. I'm beginning to see throught the mist to the other side. In a perfect world, I'd be done before the next NaNoWriMo. If you aren't clear on that, please look for the tag regarding it. I believe I go on, ad nasuem about it somewhere in here. The tags for this post will bring up others.

Another Blown Saturday

I woke with a terrible headache this mornning. I took an Imitrex and waited for it to work. I ran over to Dave & Becca's and we went to get something to eat around two. We thought about a picnic in the park but it was so hot! It got up to the 90's today and this just the first week of June! I shudder to think of July and August. Afterward, I kept Sarah for several hours. I was so sick though, that I couldn't really enjoy her much. She played until she got tired and went off to sleep. I hope she sleeps tonight.

To top that off, we heard yesterday, that the power company is going give rate hike of 50% to consumers! The reason? A pay raise for their employees of $1 an hour. How nice for them! Power bills are running $300 and $400 for some families in 2 & 3 bedroom units! That means they will pay $450 & $600 after the hike! My God, these people are criminal! That is higher than the rent on some of their apartments.

We have people who can't pay the power bills and get their power shut off. For people on the housing assistance program, if that happens, the regulations say we must take their housing assistance away! I don't have a choice in the matter. But I can't imagine taking housing away from families and the elderly and disabled. They are on such small income, smaller than their power bills. I am so upset over the thought of it. Never mind how I will pay mine! I worry about David and Becca and Sarah. They have so little as it is and it is frightening. I can't continue to support everyone with the expenses getting so bad. And fuel for the car is just as bad. It is almost to expensive to go to work.

And still the oil companies reported profits in the billions, three digit in the billions! Greed. Raping of the poor.

Has no one at the top thought of what is going to happen when you wipe out the middle class? Who pays most of the taxes that support the government? Who provides stability to the economy? The instability we have is because those who used to spend, no longer have it to spend because we are giving it to the oil executives. Anyone reading history knows that these are conditions that have led to revolutions throughout time. You can't continue to make the rich richer and increase the number of poor.

Of course, Mr Obama is going to save us all and make us rich. Right.He's making the same promises that every democrate in history has made. Just wait for the tax hike to hit.

Ok, that's enough. I can't fix any of it.

Friendly Reminders

In light of the fact that I've been getting a lot of mail on Multiply, I feel it only fair to refer those sending invitations to the related posts. I do so merely as a convenience to me since I find repetition boring and time consuming.

I suggest reading them in the following order:

http://dixiegirlsplace.multiply.com/journal/item/133
http://dixiegirlsplace.multiply.com/journal/item/134
http://dixiegirlsplace.multiply.com/journal/item/1234

I hope no one is terribly offended afterward. Those on my list got here because of their quality or because I am related to them. Those who have left, I haven't missed.

And those who have been rejected were rejected because you simply didn't meet my criteria. It isn't personal. How could it be? I don't know you.

Good Night, Ladies and Any Sweet Princes

Sarah just left and she was not happy to go home. Maw maw is such a nice playmate, it seems. But she is so tired. Becca said I had huge circles under my eyes. Well. I usually do have circles under my eyes. Some kind of genetic thing I inherited but when I am this tired, I acquire the racoon look that was so popular in the 60's.

I'm off to bed and to work in the a.m. For those of you who pray, I'd be sincerely grateful for your prayers. I am really not rested enough but I do have to go back to work. I love the kind of work I've done this week but it is the work I go to tomorrow that draines me the most. So your prayers will be very much appreciated.

I am going to play catch-up this week on other blogs. Some of you have been mysteriously silent and have forced me to reconnoiter and see what has happened to you.

Sunday, Sunday...Comes Monday

O.k., it is all done. Vacation is over, building projects are over, and children have moved all their "stuff". I kept Sarah last night. We stayed up until about 11:30 and finally, we were just give out so, I got her to sleep and Jerry came in and I had him sit by her while I got my shower. She and I both went to bed.

Around 1 a.m., Jerry said Becca called and was going to pick Sarah up but he told her she might not want to do that since we had both crashed and were sound asleep. She told him no, she'd just get her sometime today. I called her around 11:00 and she said they had finally gone to bed about 8 a.m. this morning after having put all the kitchen stuff away.

We went to lunch but I'm so tired that I just wasn't very hungry. I am NOT doing anything else this afternoon. I'll be paying for this week for at least another week. The one good thing I came away with is I am confident that now I can refloor my kitchen and any other room I want. I now have the skills to work in complete home remodeling... I just don't have the energy!

How does one get one of those home makeovers they keep showing on these stupid shows?

Everyone have a great week and I hope to be back in form after I get a good rest. Tonight I'll have my bed all to myself... well, Jerry will be there but as tired as I am I doubt I'll notice so much.

Walking the Floor

Well, here it is, at last. The new floor I've been putting down on my vacation. What do you think? I have to say we've had several service people in and when they see it the all say it is beautiful. I, of course, think the same thing but I am predjudiced, I guess.
Here you can see Sarah is really impressed!
The following shots are similar to the previous floor post but now the floor covering is down.

This is a simple peal and stick tile. Previously, I've put down a roll of vinal floor covering in two bathrooms with glue but not this. I can't say it is easier folks. This is a bit labor intensive.

Every tile had to be positioned and we actually had to reposition two because we got off the required "pryamid" method. You don't lay this in a straight line from the corner. You start from the center point and work outward in pyramids. Believe me, if you deviate, it messes things up.

I figure if the adhesive comes loose we can always use a different adhesive. I've told Becca to just use a slightly damp mop to clean it and avoid a having liquids in her bedroom.

We also painted the ceiling in the kitchen and living room and the walls in the living room had to be touched up.

Sarah apparently likes the apartment but I hope they aren't going to be too cramped. It is a small one bedroom with a full basement.

I've posted some new photos of Sarah in the albums for those interested. We took her to the mall to the play area where a little boy seemed to just fall in love with her. He played big brother the whole time we were there. They were so cute together. He had a 9 month old baby sister of his own but she has Down Syndrome. He was just wonderful with Sarah so I know he will be a wonderful big brother.

Monday is back to work day and frankly, every vacation I have to go back to work to get any rest. This will be no different! I kept Sarah overnight on Thursday night and she was so sweet. Had one bout of crying at bedtime for her Mama but she crawled onto my chest and lay down and cried about twice and was then sound asleep. Becca says she does that every night. She fights her sleep and wants her mother when it is bed time. But over all she was an angel both days. They said last night she went right to bed in the new place and never fussed.

Hump Day - All Down Hill

Finally, the floor is DONE! I am soooo tired, you have no idea. I am going to try and get photos tomorrow to post. It is beautiful, folks! Really. I am ready now to do it in my house.

My poor hands are so sore and I cut my thumb. I think it is slightly infected because it hurts like the dickens. I've doctored it and perhaps by morning it will be better. I am going to take tomorrow off. Ha, ha! No work on anyone's house but mine. And I'd like to site somewhere nice and relax.

I hope everyone else is havin a great week. I think Jilly may not be since the rains have set in in England. . . again! But she is about to be grandma again so perhaps she won't notice so much. Congratulations, Jilly and hope all goes well with your daughter and the little one.

Nearly There

Needless to say, I didn't nothing to day except go to church and take a loooooog nap. I will be going back to church soon for the evening service in about an hour but wanted to upload some new photos of Sarah for everyone to see. She is such a pixie and I have to share.

Also, here are some photos of the work on the floor nearing completion. Of course, we forgot to take before photos but you can see what I've been doing for the last week. Tomorrow, I hope to finish it for good.

Here you can see the built in chest and shelves where we had to piece the plywood for the small areas. If you squint at the left side of the photo, you may be able to see where the air vent is set into the wood.

There will be a window seat on top of the chest that is padded. I see Sarah up there on rainy days.
The lines are where we sealed the seams. That is what we have to sand tomorrow. I am hoping my daughter-in-law will do this. It is terrible on my knees. If not, I will have to get a pad to kneel on.

You can see from looking at the wood grain why we hated to cover up the plywood. It is really some lovely wood. I am not sure but I think you could build cabinets out of this stuff!
This is taken from inside that built-closet and toward the hallway. You can see where the plywood sheet ended and we had to cut another strip to fill in to the wall.
Finally, the final corner. You can see my little helper here surveying the work. Size is difficult to gage in photos. That is a 4x8 sheet of plywood. The room took three and a half sheets total.

Vacations and Building Projects

Vacation has begun! I am so glad! Friday afternoon was a breeze because I knew I was going to be off for 10 days! The director allowed the agency to close at 4 p.m. so that was an added bonus. I am waiting for my ride to go over and finish the apartment. We have one or two things left to do and then we are finito!

As I have worked on this floor I am feeling better now about my impending kitchen remodel. I have to replace the whole floor and I want new cabinets. Now that I know what I am doing, the counter tops are going to be the biggest expense I fear. Anyone with ideas on quick, easy and lovely countertops, feel free to advise!

I am really sore in my hands and back but it is just one of those things, I think that happens from exertion rather than the unending mess I deal with regularly. Actually, that has been better as the weather has cleared somewhat. The neck and shoulder are still a problem and Thursday my calves, particularly that left one, was bad.

Oddly, I've learned the difference in the fibro pain and other kinds. I wonder if the pain from overworked muscles is not connected to the same part of the brain as frbro pain. Over work does make the pain worse but this week, the pain has been different because the fibro pain appears to have eased up. So recovery seems faster and the pain less severe! Crazy.

I'm leaving for now. Back soon and hopefully, I'll have some photos of the work near completion. Should have taken some before and after but we forgot. The litter box discovery was shocking and all we wanted to do was get rid of it and get the thing fixed. Toodles!

Floored

I spent my evening flooring the bedroom of my sister's rental unit. As I mentioned in a previous post, the previous tenant ruined the carpet by allowing her animals to urinate on it... repeatedly. the floor underneath was hardwood but in terrible condition and stained by the animals. We ripped the carpet out last weekend and tonight and tomorrow night we are installing a underlayment in preparation for a new floor covering. It will probably be a vinal of some sort if she can afford it. Right now we just need to get a floor down so the new tenants can move in!

And no, I don't get paid for this. Tomorrow I will probably pay the piper. Hauling around 4x8 ft. sheets of half inch luane plywood is not an easy task. I am a perfectionist so ever piece is fitted in carefully. We even cut out the hole for the air conditioning vent. It was a perfect fit with no excess space. After the floor is done, we have to seal the cracks with wood filler to give a smooth surface so the floor covering won't crack in those areas. I've done this twice before on bathroom floors but this is the largest floor project I've had to this point. I must say, I am quite pleased with the results but I am not anxious to do it again, thank you very much.

So, I am going to bed now and hope I am able to crawl out tomorrow. Vacation is two days away! I have to have this done by Saturday. I have NO intention of spending my vacation doing work for someone else.

Night yall.

Who Am I, Really?

Your Career Personality: Brainy, Logical, and Efficient

Your Ideal Careers: Archeologist Astronomer Book editor Business manager Civil engineer Designer Economist Inventor Judge Scientist

The Quick and Dirty Career Test

You Are From Pluto

You are a dark, mysterious soul, full of magic and the secrets of the universe. You can get the scoop on anything, but you keep your own secrets locked in your heart. You love change and you use it to your advantage, whether by choice or chance. You don't like to compromise, to the point of being self-destructive with your stubborness. Live life with love, and your deep powers will open the world to you.

What Planet Are You From?

You Don't Need Extra Attention

You're perfectly happy with who you are, and you don't need attention to feel good about yourself. You prefer to let your actions and accomplishments speak for themselves. Working hard to get people to like you is your idea of a nightmare. You've got a lot going on, and anyone with half a brain will notice that on their own! You come across as: Confident and serious People may wrongly think you're: Stuck up and shy

Are You An Attention Whore?

You Are 77% Creative

You are beyond creative. You are a true artist - even if it's not in the conventional sense of the word. You love creating for its own sake, and you find yourself quite inspired at times.

How Creative Are You?

You Are Fairly Normal

You scored 50% normal on this quiz Like most people you are normal in some ways... But you aren't a completely normal person. You're a little weird too! Why You Are Normal: You'd rather have rats than cockroaches in your home You prefer fiction to non fiction You think glasses can make someone more attractive You rather be screwed over than screw someone else over If you had to, you rather live without music and still have laughter Why You Aren't Normal: You prefer your family to your friends You prefer the moon to the sun You prefer a good nap to a good meal You would rather be a movie star than an astronaut You would rather be tan than pale

What's Normal About You... And What's Not?

You Have Your PhD in Men

You understand men almost better than anyone. You accept that guys are very different, and you read signals well. Work what you know about men, and your relationships will be blissful.

How Well Do You Understand Men?

To Die for...

The day is georgeous- sunny, breeze, and comfortable, although the desktop says it is 80 degrees. It doesn't feel like 80. I really need to be cutting my yard but I've been trying to help Becca clean the new apartment to get it ready to move in by the 30th.

It is my sister's property and her tenant abandoned the unit a couple of months ago. Dave and Becca want to rent it now, although it is a one bedroom and small. Sarah won't sleep in her own bed anyway so it doesn't matter much. It will save them money for a year, if they are careful and save. Right.

We ripped the carpet up in the bedroom. The previous tenant had a cat and a dog and I swear she kept them locked in there when she went to work. It smelled of cat and when we pulled up the carpet, the smell of urine was horrible. The woman was a pig..My sister will have to put new flooring down. The hardwood floor below would require too much work at the moment. She can't afford it. So, we'll have to clean it and find some tile to put on it until later. Anyone have a fast, easy way to clean a floor that has glue and dirt on it? It is a shame because structurally, the floor is good. Refinished it would be a hardwood beauty.

I am not getting things done, you know. I just have no motivation and I think it is because someone always needs something and I'm the sap who says, "I'll help."

I am off the last week of the month and I am hoping I can do NOTHING! Yes, nothing but what I want to do. We will see. Dave and Becca will be moving that week and I will probably have Sarah a lot but that is a small thing. What I really need is to go somewhere. Of course one needs transportation for that and I have none.

I am going now. The sun is calling.

A Rose By Any Other Name

I find these things rather interesting and usually not even close to the mark. This one, however, is weirdly accurate. My friend, Sheila, posted her's on her blog and I found it so interesting I tried my own name.

What you read here is actually true about me, even the negative parts!
Here is the result. I have deliberately not posted my name. The site address is at the bottom of the page.

My Name Means:

There are 16 letters in your name.
Those 16 letters total to 83
There are 5 vowels and 11 consonants in your name.

What your first name means:

Greek

Female

Of Cynthus (Mount Cynthus on the island of Delos). Famous bearer: Cynthia was one of the names of the mythological moon goddess Artemis, referring to her birth on Mount Cynthus.

Your number is: 11

The characteristics of #11 are: High spiritual plane, intuitive, illumination, idealist, a dreamer.

The expression or destiny for #11:
Your Expression number is 11. The number 11 is the first of the master numbers. It is associated with idealistic concepts and rather spiritual issues. Accordingly, it is a number with potentials that are somewhat more difficult to live up to. You have the capacity to be inspirational, and the ability to lead merely by your own example. An inborn inner strength and awareness can make you an excellent teacher, social worker, philosopher, or advisor. No matter what area of work you pursue, you are very aware and sensitive to the highest sense of your environment. Your intuition is very strong; in fact, many psychic people and those involved in occult studies have the number 11 expression. You possess a good mind with keen analytical ability. Because of this you can probably succeed in most lines of work, however, you will do better and be happier outside of the business world. Oddly enough, even here you generally succeed, owing to your often original and unusual approach. Nonetheless, you are more content working with your ideals, rather than dollars and cents.

The positive aspect of the number 11 expression is an always idealistic attitude. Your thinking is long term, and you are able to grasp the far-reaching effects of actions and plans. You are disappointed by the shortsighted views of many of your contemporaries. You are deeply concerned and supportive of art, music, or of beauty in any form.

The negative attitudes associated with the number 11 expression include a continuous sense of nervous tension; you may be too sensitive and temperamental. You tend to dream a lot and may be more of a dreamer than a doer. Fantasy and reality sometimes become intermingled and you are sometimes very impractical. You tend to want to spread the illumination of your knowledge to others irrespective of their desire or need.

Your Soul Urge number is: 7

A Soul Urge number of 7 means:
With a number 7 Soul Urge you are very fond of reading, and retreating to periods of being alone and away from the disruptions of the outer world. You like to dream and develop you idealistic understandings, to study and analyze, to gain knowledge and wisdom. You may be too laid back and withdrawn to really succeed in the business world, and you will be much more comfortable in circumstances that are tolerant of your reserve, your analytical approach, and your desire to use your mind rather than your physical being.

You are very timid around people that you don't know very well, so much so at times that casual conversation and social situations can be strained. You tend to repress your emotions to the extend that some people have a good bit of difficult understanding you. You tend to be very selective with friends and you don't easily adapt to new environments or to new people very quickly.

The negative traits of the 7 include becoming too much the introvert and isolated from others.

Your Inner Dream number is: 4

An Inner Dream number of 4 means:
You dream of being a very solid citizen that people can depend upon. You strive for organization and predictable order. You want to be recognized as a person with a plan and the discipline to make that plan work like clockwork.

Copyright © 2006 Paul R. Sadowski (http://www.paulsadowski.com)

Adios

I found the following article interesting. Fewer Latino Immigrants Send Money Home. Could it be that pulling in the welcome mat, tougher stance on immigration enforcement, and loud Citizen voices are making an impact? I certainly hope so.

What I suspect, however, is that the problems with our economy IS only just beginning and the illegals, like the citizens are feeling the impact. I didn't mention it before because I had to think about it, but if, in fact, Congress decided to legalize the several million illegals you can watch for the following to happen.

Welfare rolls for food stamps and aid to dependent children will balloon
Medicaid rolls will explode
Government housing rolls will explode.
Violent crime will escalate in response to critical shortages.

There will be more spent on these items than is being spent right now. And it is an unending cycle. Anyone who thinks this is a good idea, well, be prepared for astronomical tax hikes to the middle class. Expect more homeless legal Americans citizens. Those currently on these rolls will be pushed off over time and replaced by the "new illegal citizens".

Please understand me when I say I have no complaint with those who come to this country legally and make the effort to gain their citizenship. I do think we have a policy that is far to liberal because we can no longer support those who live here. But if you legally arrived on our shores, I respect your honesty and wish you the best in attaining your goal of becoming a citizen.

You should be aware that you will join the millions of American citizens who will pay for the expenses of the illegal immigrants.

Mothers' Day

Happy Mother's Day to the all the woman in this most nobel profession. I hope you all have the a day filled with happiness with those who appreciate all your sacrifices.

I'll try and write more later. I have my aunt, uncle and youngest sister visiting this weekend and so I have been busy visiting.

Mirrors

I don't usually post directly to this blog. It is basically a mirror of my Multiply blog and serves as an emergency backup in case of something failing. So sometimes, things I say about people on my list in this blog are actually contacts on that blog.

Multiply has the capacity to allow you to post to a Multiply blog and simultaneously post to Blogger. Multiply also allows cross posting to Wordpress and a few other blogging sites. It is a nice feature.

I have a Yahoo 360 blog but it is being phased out because Yahoo is no longer providing customer service to 360. There are glitches that result in lost posts, readers are unable to access a blog to read it or comment on it, comments are lost or post multiple times. Not sure how many are members of 360 but I know there are a lot fewer.

At any rate, if something is confusing in a post, more than likely, it is something that is on Multiply. There is a link to that site if you want to visit. I have a lot of other things on that site. Videos, photos, stories, essays, and a blog. Drop by and take a look.

Rain and the End of a Day

Rain has once again kept the day dark and gloomy. I have been miserable all day. I can barely talk, I am so hoarse. My cold is not as bad but I can't get the hoarseness to go away. And I am tired. I am going to bed early tonight. I have to get more sleep. It is just that there is so much to do and I don't ever seem to get a moment to relax except when I am online.

I saw that Ms. Clinton won Indiana and Mr. Obama won N. C. Not surprising in either instance. Indiana was a Clinton state when Bill ran. I don't think that with the current crop of candidates that it will be a win for the nation, no mater which one is elected.

We, as a nation, are reaching critical mass economically, morally, and socially. We have opened too many doors, spent too much money on worthless causes, ungrateful countries, and enemies and we've failed to invest in the country and our own people. My opinion is that it is too late. An injured body can bleed only so long before it lapses into a coma. We're there. If it continues to bleed, the body dies. Someone should pick the flowers. Our enemies will rejoice. Our leches will mourn but they'll also starve to death because they can't make it on their own. Our friends abandoned us long ago so they could hedge their bets.

Frankly, I don't think we ever had many friends. A friend with their hand is out is no friend at all. The most common emotion toward America is jealousy and resentment. No nation should be allow to be so successful, so wealthy, so self sufficient. Makes people mad. And we're arrogant about it too. Well, if you have it, you have it and if you don't you hate those who do. We've been generous to the needy and to the jerks.. A lot of people fought and died to insure this nation and secure it for us citizens. And we've blown it in less than 100 years.

Now, wasn't that a very negative message? So, I've not optimistic.

Ok, I think that is dark enough for today.

A Day Off

As you can see from my welcome box, I am listed on the Million Blog List. You should check it out and list your blog. It is a Wiki to see how long it will take to list a milliion blogs. Interesing, if nothing else.

I have spent the entire day working in the yard and cleaning house. I have company coming this weekend for my sister's graduation from college. I had my son's mother-in-law come and clean the house for me while I did other things. My house is sooooo clean. The woman is absolutely amazing with a few cleaning items! Everything smells clean!

Becca cut the lawn and I played with Sarah, did laundry and cleaned the study - my personal sanctuary. I put away my winter clothes and have several things still to do but it will have to be done when I come in from work the rest of this week.

My car is on the fritz so I'm stranded at the moment. Not sure what is happening. I hope to have it fixed tomorrow.

My cold is better but Mike now has it and Sarah is still recovering. I am still hoarse and cough a bit but much better than I was a day or so ago. Nasty bug this one.

It is late and I am dog tired. I hurt all over and am dreading getting up in the morning. I never know how it will affect me! Will I have minimal pain? Will I be in unbearable pain? Will I be bad but get better or will I be good and get worse? Makes my head hurt juist thinking about it.

But my house is so clean!

Praise Break

I went to church last night and it was a wonderful service. Amazing how refreshed you feel after you have bathed in a pool of worship. The visiting missionary was Bro & Sis. Turner ( I can't remember their first names). They are on their way back to Ireland. His message was Take a Praise Break. He said the studies revealed that employees who are given two coffee breaks a day, actually produce more. He said next time, take a praise break!

He also said something profound that I never thought of before. In answer to the question, Why would God want us to worship him? He said that only an inferior being can give worship. God can't worship himself so he created humans. We, our souls, worship God because the soul is aware of his majesty.

In light of that, the Rev. Oprah's new religion makes sense for those seeking to hide their evil deeds by eliminating God. It demotes God and removes his majesty. When a soul is corrupt, it looks for a place to hide from the eye of God. This new fad makes man the deity and removes the need to worship anyone but self. It convinces the human heart (seat of evil) that the all seeing eye is now closed. Sin is gone because there is no one to judge it. And since there is no sin in this religion, absolutely nothing you do is wrong. You can be a child molester and you're just fine? Wonder how she is going to reconcile all the evil in the world? Because if you don't have a judge and there is no law there is NO WRONG DOING. Yeah, that sounds like a place I want to live and have my granddaughter grow up in! NOT. Incidentally, this is not a religion, folks. Religion is based on the concept of a deity. This is based on self-actualization. It is not a religion. It is a club. I gotta wonder what the eternal perks are.

Well, I'm taking my praise break now. Glory and honor and power be to the most high God. No weapon formed against Him shall prosper. Bless the Lord and let His name be known to the far corners of the world. May all who hear His name desire to seek His face.

King David always says it better than me:

Psalms 18
31 For who is God, except the LORD?
And who is a rock, except our God?
32 It is God who arms me with strength,
And makes my way perfect.
33 He makes my feet like the feet of deer,
And sets me on my high places.
46 The LORD lives!
Blessed be my Rock!
Let the God of my salvation be exalted.
Psalms 63
3 Because Your lovingkindness is better than life,
My lips shall praise You.
Psalms 86
8 Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord;
Nor are there any works like Your works.
9 All nations whom You have made
Shall come and worship before You, O Lord,
And shall glorify Your name.
10 For You are great, and do wondrous things;
You alone are God.

Break's over. Amen

Week End!

It has been a busy week and actually, a fairly good one. The weather had been nice and I've been relatively pain free. Work was very busy and hectic all week and I came home tired most night but there is no rest for the weary. I had company nearly ever evening until nearly 10. Last night was the first night this week I could call my own. I ate supper and read a bit but I still was midnight getting to bed. Just can't seem to break that cycle.

Tonight, I am hoping for a repeat!

Alice emailed me wondering where I was and saying she was suffering withdrawal because I had not posted anything lately. I tell you, I've just been so tired I couldn't think of anything at all. This post is apt to be so boring you'll fall asleep in about 10 words.

It has rained all day here and I suspect that means that the yard work for tomorrow is a no go. I still have a couple of hedges to clear and the grass will need another mowing. But with all this wet, it will be impossible. Typical.

I am going to try and finish a chapter of Mist, Alice. I began working on it this week, actually. I know you have missed it. I seem to have fallen into a slump for several months now and it has been difficult to break out. But I am putting an extra effort into it.

Well, the pizza has arrived and I am going to pop it in the oven. Store bought, not delivery. I'll be back later, I am sure.

Hi Ho, Hi Ho, It's Off To Work I Go!

The weather turned cold overnight last night and I had to close the windows. Tonight, I've had to close the windows and turn on the heat. The wind is out of the north and quite chilly. It is 53 degrees. I just got home from church, got my bath and while my hair is drying, I am writing this post.

The weekend has come to a close and I am exhausted and having problems with pain. I did too much, I fear. I worked yesterday in my yard, raking the grass and bagging it, and cutting the overgrown hedges down and dragging it to the street to be hauled away.

I still have three hedges left and a truck load of cuttings but I did as much as I could. Some of the limbs had grown to a three inches in diameter because I was not able to cut them last year. My oldest son came out to help when my daughter-in-law shamed him into it. Little Sarah helped with bagging the grass and her mommie helped and hauled them to the street too. My yard looks so much better so I can deal with the side effects. My younger son says he will come and haul out the rest tomorrow after work. He worked Saturday so could not be here to help.

I do love working in my yard. I don't have flower beds and such but it is a large yard. Sarah, as small as she is, can play in that great big yard for hours and probably not walk the same area twice. We bought this house because of the big yard, in 1990, when the youngest was 7. We bought a trampoline, a basketball goal, a children's pool, and some sand. They played out there all the time. A few times we considered selling out and leaving but I truly love my home, delipated though it has become, and my yard is so private that I doubt I'd be happier somewhere else.

I do hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. I am not feeling great but I it was a lovely weekend and worth the price.

High Alert!

It is the WEEKEND! Now get out there and enjoy it!

I am on my way to Sam's Club to get a couple of rotisserie chickens for supper, pick up Becca and Sarah and sit on the patio and watch her play.

Hope you all have a sunny, dry, cool weekend! I may blog more later but maybe not. . .

545 People - A Political Statement

I got this in my email today. I have no idea if this is, in fact, written by Charlie Reese. I don't know if the statement at the end is true. If Charlie Reese didn't write it, I apologize to the author and ask that you let me know who you are so I can give you the highest credit. This is the best political statement I've ever read!

This is the simplest, most understandable and truest explanation of the woes of the nation and who caused them, as well as how to cure them. This should be sent to every person in the U.S., including the "545".


"545 People"
by Charlie Reese:

Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.

Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits?

Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, we have inflation and high taxes?

You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.

You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.

You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.

You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.

You and I don't control monetary policy, The Federal Reserve Bank does.

One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president and nine Supreme Court justices - 545 human beings out of the 300 million - are directly, legally, morally and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.

In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered but private central bank.

Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.

What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall.

No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.

The president can only propose a budget.

He cannot force the Congress to accept it.

The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes.

Who is the speaker of the House?

She is the leader of the majority party.

She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want.

If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.

It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can not replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts - of incompetence and irresponsibility.

I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people.

When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.

If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.

If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red.

If the Marines are in IRAQ, it's because they want them in IRAQ.

If gas is high, it's because they won't drill off Florida or in Alaska.

If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it that way.

There are no insoluble government problems.

Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power.

Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like 'the economy,' 'inflation' or 'politics' that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do. Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.

They, and they alone, have the power.

They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses - provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.

We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!

FYI: Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.

Glass Houses and Environmental Garbage

Check out this page learn more about what Mr. Gore is doing to help conserve energy and "go green".
Glass Houses

"People who live in glass houses should not throw stones."
Remember what I said about leaders and followers? If he can't follow his own plan, what makes him an expert?

Count the Gumballs - Illegal Immigration

I seem to have started a debate with my Patriots video. It has broadened in to the subject of illegal immigration and the pros and cons of illegal immigrants. Incidentally, there is no PRO. in allowing law breakers to become citizens. We have enough criminals as it is and once you allow one law to be broken, you open the door for others. Never mind the simple fact that the American economy can't support the shear volumn of people we are expected to support. Who do you think is going to pay the bill.

Ginger, more people, means LESS food, regardless of who's farming. You are looking at potential famine in a country already struggling to balance its budget and pay its bills. Add a million or two and their children and you have not seen the economic nightmare.

You are talking about more money spent to house, educate, feed, and give medical treatment to for FREE. I work in a government agency that doesn't have enough funds to assist CITIZENS with housing assistance so they won't have to live in shelters. You're telling me we should add a couple of million more low income families to the mix so they can come in and push honest legal citizens into homeless shelters?

Because that is what will happen. THERE IS NO MONEY TO SUPPORT THEM. Low income is low income and the greater the numbers of low income families, the more money that is required from the taxpayer to support them with food, shelter, education and medical. The middle class is paying for free housing, free medical, free food for low income families and believe me when I say we are being forced to cut people off every year because the Federal government can't provide more money. HUD cuts housing assistance ever single year by 10% at least.

So, those of you who think you have nothing to worry about should know the facts. Number speak for themselves. If you are pro illegal immigration you should be aware of what YOU will lose by allowing the numbers to continue. You are going to pay people, never think for one minute that there is anything way at all you will benefit from this. Sorry, Ginger, you better plant a garden cause you aren't going to be able to afford to feed your own family and you will pay for their college while all those illegals get to go tuition free!

And don't think for one minute they will continue to work for those menial wages, hon. Once they become citizens they will form unions, strike for higher wages, better housing, and better working conditions... the things accorded legal citizens. And the owner will continue to hire illegal immigrants because they can't afford to hire citizens! That is where your logic breaks down. You think it will be solved by legalization but if the farm owners wanted legal citizens they'd hire them. They don't want them for the very reason you state the illegals should be made citizens.

Learn to count, folks. Watch the gumballs.

Test Run

Sunday aftrernoon ended up sunny and warm. Go figure. My weed garden is too high to go out and enjoy it.

Why is it too high, you ask? Because you can't mow in the stinking rain. It rains a week and the weeds grow another 5 inches and then on Sunday, when I am too exhausted to mow and have two church services, it is sunny.

So, soon I shall be surrounded by giant ragweed and other assorted nuisances. I will be overcome with allergies. I truly think when all humanity is extince ( probably soon) that the planet, if it still stands, will simply become a huge nursery fro every ugly plant on the planet.

Personally, I'm a Christian and we believe the earth will be consumed by fire. Hmmm, wonder if I can do a test run in my yard?

The muse has abandoned me and I have to get dressed for service.

Amusing Animations

Every once in awhile, I find something or my dad sends me something that is so amusing I want to share it. The following is one of those things. I couldn't put it in the video section so I've had to blog it. After you watch the first, you will find the second even funnier. Have fun.

Animator vs. Animation


Animator vs. Animation by *alanbecker on deviantART


Animator vs. Animation II


Animator vs. Animation II by *alanbecker on deviantART

Whole Lotta Shaken

I slept through the whole thing. Really, I did. My husband called from his job at 4 a.m. to wake me up and say, "We just had an earthquake."

Ah, the sleep of the just.

I don't get a lot of rest and so, to be awakened from a wonderful sound sleep is quite annoying. I raised my head and looked around. The roof was still on, the wall still standing, and the windows unbroken. In the darkness, as near as I could tell, everything looked ok. I lay back down and went back to sleep until 7 a.m.

I did feel the aftershock around 10 a.m. and it freaked me out far more. I am on the bottom floor of a 10 story Public Housing building that is probably 30 years old or more. It felt as if the building was skating for about 5 seconds. I had this image of the top floor swaying but I can't be sure of that. I only know that in that five seconds I realized the impact those 10 floors would have should the shaking continue. There was no time to react.

So all that earthquake preparedness stuff is just junk. There is no time to get out of a building when the shaking starts. I am two offices away from an exit but that 10 floors will fall a lot faster than I could run, I suspect. And once out that door, I am in a large parking lot where I am sure a large amount of the brick, cement, and metal will end up. I would have to make it to the street to be sure of being safe from a falling building. It would take all of two or three minutes to get there... If I were composed enough to run.

The mid-west got all shook up.

For those wondering, I am sitting in Southern Indiana, in the toe of the boot, right at top of the New Madrid zone. Not the best place on the planet to retire.

There was more than one quake in the United State on Friday. For more factual information on quakes around the globe on the 18th, check out the USGS site: USGS

Up The Garden Path. . . to the Church

Three words, obtained from Writing Fix:
An apple
A church
A beggar

This is where they led me. It isn't finished as you will see. The begger has not made an entrance. This is actually part of something else but I thought I share. For the true writers, take the three words and see what they lead you.

Pastor Whitmore put his lunch on the desk beside his Bible. Martha packed his lunch every day, in the same kind of brown paper bag and folded the top down the three times. He knew exactly what was in the bag -- a sandwich of whole wheat bread with some kind of meat, a small bag of his favorite chips, and a bright, red apple. She provided a Stanley Thermos with ice, cold tea. Never failed. He was as certain of it as he was of his name. And tonight, when he got home, he would hand her the neatly folded bag and tell her what a wonderful lunch she had given him.

He sat down in the stuffed leather chair behind his desk. As he sat down, he echoed the long, tired sigh that only old chairs can produce. He put his head back and closed his eyes. Anyone looking in would think he was in prayer, with his elbows on the arms of his chair and his hands clasped under his chin. He knew they would because the church secretary, Kate Winsome, had thought just that when she had come into the office unexpectedly last week.

“Oh, Pastor, I didn’t mean to interrupt. I was just putting away the books. Please go on with your devotions and I’ll come back later.” She had turned on her heel and pulled the door shut with a quiet but firm snick.

For a moment he had been amused and thought about telling her he was only resting his eyes. And then the idea came to him. He could rest quietly in his chair and if anyone did pop in, they would never know he wasn’t praying. Of course, he seldom rested anyway and that is why he always needed to take these catnaps. He had not slept well in years. And after this last one, it had only gotten worse.

They had discovered the body of the missing woman yesterday. She had not been given a name. Of course, they would not be able to identify her for some time. But it didn’t matter. He would still not be able to sleep. Oh, he went to bed every night at the same time, just like the experts advised. He didn’t eat a big meal after six o’clock. He got up at the same time every day. His whole life was on a schedule right down to the number of times he went to the bathroom. He put his clothes on every day in exactly the same order. Pants first, then socks, then shirt, then shoes, then his tie and coat. Yes, everything was scheduled, everything but sleep.

He had tried all the sleep aids he had ever heard of, warm milk, over the counter pills designed to cause drowsiness, melatonin, and exercise. Yet, he was always tired. He had begun to crave rest the way an alcoholic craves a drink. It still evaded him, slipping off into the darkness that devoured his soul.

Portentous idnit'? Now, what next? Actually, I already know.

Getting To Know You... uh Me!

Welcome to the 2008 edition of getting to know your Friends. Change all the answers so they apply to you, and then send this to your friends including the person who sent it to you. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little things about your friends that you might not have known!

1. What time did you get up this morning?
Get up every mornin' at 6:45 a.m. except Sat. & Sun. I don't usually go to bed until after midnight.

2. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds. I've learned as I get older they really are a girl's best friend.

3. What was the last film you saw at the cinema?
This must be British in origin. We don't do cinema... we go to the picture show... well, down south we do. Some go to the movies. The movies... hmmm, can't remember the last one. I don't do a lot of movies or television.

4. What is your favorite TV show?
See #3 but I like really good mysteries and a few sci-fi. And I like (gasp) Medium. Also, CSI, House, Star Gate (all varieties) If they all came on the same channel the same night, I'd watch t.v. once a week.

5. What do you usually have for breakfast?
Whatever I can fix in 15 minutes or my husband has already fixed. Grits, biscuits and gravy, sausage buscuit, cereal. I get up at 6:45 and have to be at work at 8.

6. What is your middle name?
I never tell that. My grandmother and I shared our middle names. She was beautiful but I am not really fond of the name.
7. What food do you dislike?
Not many . Southerners are taught to eat what is set before you and not complain. So, I like pretty much all food... except squash.

8. What is your favorite CD at moment?
Don't know the name but it is a Jackson Mass Choir cd of my son's. I love putting it in the car and cranking up the volumn. Church on wheels! He has another I like that I absolutly covet in a godly way; Alvin Slaughter!

9. What kind of car do you drive?
I drive what runs. At the moment it is a white Chevy Lumina that is about to die. I call it the Imminent Corpse.

10. Favorite sandwich?
See #7 I really love a good sandwich and am partial to ham and cheese. No sandwich is complete without French's Mustard. There is NO other mustard.

11. What characteristic do you despise?
Liars, bar none.

12. Favorite item of clothing?
Actually, probably this pair of sweats I am wearing. I get so cold and it hurts when I get cold. So, I wear them virtually all the time when I am home in the winter.

13. If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation, where would you go?
Tahiti, my dream vacation. I keep asking God to bless me with a free trip and accomodations. I presume he is having difficulty with the travel arrangements.

14. Favorite brand of clothing?
Something that fits and makes me feel very sleek and together. I dont' care if it is Wal-mart chic or Saks class... as long as it is on sale.

15. Where would you retire to?
See #13. But that isn't exactly true, although nice to think about. I think I still want the cabin in the mountains or the cottage on the deserted beach. I'm trying to decide. Again, I' ve talked to God about it and I think he's having trouble deciding, too.

16. What was your most recent memorable birthday?
I don't have one... wait, my 6th. Uh, that wasn't recent but it is the only memorable one I have. I had a real party and I got a set of "luggage". Three little cases that nested. They were powder blue and had poodles on the top. I also got a gold bracelet from my father, whom I had not seen in over a year. At least, my grandmother said it was from him. I've since lost the bracelet in a move. I remember lots of children there but I have an impression I was "alone". Must be loads of meaning in that.

17. Favorite sport to watch?
Braves Baseball when they are actually playing Braves Baseball! Didn't watch a single game last year.

18. Farthest place you are sending this?
Have no idea. I don't ask where anyone is from. My family are all in the southern U.S. I will post it on the blog so I suspect world wide.

19. Person you expect to send it back first?
I place on expectations on anyone. I don't presume that if they don't respond they aren't friends

20. When is your birthday?
October 28

21. Are you a morning person or a night person?
Didn't you already ask me this? On, no different question. I am a nightowl. I hate getting up in the a.m.

22. What is your shoe size?
Size 8

23. Pets?
None since Sandy died. Don't want to think about another.

24. Any new and exciting news you'd like to share with us?
I'm breathing?

26. How are you today?
Rotten day . Woke with a migraine that turned into a nightmare. Took two Imitrex before I kicked it. Got so bad I thought I was going to vomt.

27. What is your favorite candy?
Peanut Butter Cups

28. What is your favorite flower?
All of them.

29. What is a day on the calendar you are looking forward to?
Tomorrow - I figure it is always a blessing to see tomorrow.

30. What is your full name?
Now why would I need to give that out? Cynthia is my first name.

31. What are you listening to right NOW?
The clicking of the keyboard. The hum of the computer.

32. What was the last thing you ate?
Potted Meat sandwich. Poor man's pate'. Did you ever read what's in that stuff? Don't or you won't be able to eat it.

33. Do you wish on stars?
No, I just stare for hours at them when I can. I live in the city and stars are rarely seen.

34. If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Midnight blue

36. Last person you spoke to on the phone?
Becca, the daughter-in-law that God blessed me with. I talk to her about a dozen times a day... she calls me.

37. Favorite soft drink?
Diet 7up or Diet Coke. Homemade lemonade

38. Favorite restaurant?
Anywhere someone else is buying.

39. Hair color?
Brownish-blondish whose blond has turned more and more to gray and left the dirty brown.

40. What was your favorite toy as a child?
books

41. Summer or winter?
Summer on the Gulf in Alabama

42. Hugs or kisses?
Why chose one?

43. Chocolate or Vanilla?
Chocolate

44. Coffee or tea?
iced tea or hazelnut coffee

45. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back?
If they have time and want to

46. When was the last time you cried?
Seems like all the time but that can't be right

47. What is under your bed?
I think a body. But I don't know if they are coming or going. (dust thou are and to dust thou returnest)

48. What did you do last night?
Slept as much as possible.

49. What are you afraid of?
Not making it to heaven

50. How many years at your current job ?
10

51. Favorite day of the week?
Friday - I get out of Hell for two days!

52. How many towns have you lived in?
We aren' t even going to count those!

53. How many people will you send this too?
No idea

54. How many will respond?
Maybe none.

What A Mess

I hate politics and I despise politicians. I don't like even one of our candidates, even a little bit. As far as I can tell, they are all pretty much alike. They lie. They double-talk. They say one thing in New York and another in New Jersey and another in New Mexico.

What would happen if we had a political candidate who told the truth... all the time? He wouldn't get elected. Americans focus on their wants. I want to pay less taxes so I'll vote for this one. I want my closet full of guns, so I'll vote for this one. I want to marry my same sex partner so I'll vote for this one. I want to have an abortion when I'm 5 months pregnant so I'll vote for this one. I want free this and free that, I'll vote for that one. We vote for the person who we think will give us what we want, regardless of their ethics, morality, world view, or predjudices. We so misuse the greatest weapon on the planet. Probably because we are just as corrupt.

I hear people who do the same job as I do say they would lie and steal if they were the person across the desk! How can I believe you are trustworthy and ethical if you tell me that? NO WONDER WE GET IDIOTS FOR ELECTED OFFICIALS. LOOK WHOSE VOTING!

I don't even want to vote for the current crop! But as a citizen I will vote. It boils down to picking the lesser of three evils. If Obama is the candidate, I'll probably vote for McCain. If Hillary is, I might consider her and I don't even like the woman a little bit.

I was actually leaning toward Obama a bit but after the exposure of his religious affiliation, I can emphatically say "Not a chance." Any person who can sit under a racist pastor and not bat an eye or speak out against it WHEN IT IS HAPPENING rather than when he wants my vote would not be someone I can trust. His values are skewed. If a white political candidate were associated with such a person, they would be vilified and hounded to the ends of the earth. Their political career would be over. He may try and renounce it now but what was he doing on Sunday mornings when it was happening?

I am not naive enough to think my single vote will matter but I won't ever be accused of supporting that kind of person. Ethics are already lacking in much of America. If we truly believe we are all equal, there can be no association with people or organizations who spout racist propaganda. If you want me to treat you equally, you better maintain the standards of someone who actually supports and believes in equality. Attending racist sermons of bigots won't do it. Paying tithes to support the ministry of such a person tells me you are a dues paying member of the club. And I don't give a flying flip what color you are!

Caeser's wife had to be above reproach because her associations and actions reflected on Caeser. The associations of these candidates is NOT above reproach. The rest of the world may have forgotten White Water but I remember. The bottom line was -- they lied.

Am I a demoncrat or a reprobate? Neither, I am a Bible believing Christian who is disgusted by people who don't put the right principles first. I can't fix it but I don't have to like it.

I'll be praying about my vote. Praying for the courage to actually cast it!

Old Glory and the Pledge of Allegiance

Alice O posted this under a previous blog "Social Statements vs Military Actions". I am posting it here because I feel it would be wise for every American, every legal resident and even the illegal residents to hear it. I don't presume they will all visit my blog but every person on American soil should understand exactly what it means to be an American. Until you do, you don't belong here.

This video is almost as old as me and it states in eloquent words what a loyal and dedicated American feels about our flag and our country.





"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for all."

Saturday In the Park. . . Not

Another Saturday has rolled around and I have more to do than the day will allow. I have my sister's taxes, my bank statments, my house to clean, and some junk that needs to go! I was planning on going to church tonight because Becca wanted to go. There is a visiting minister that she knows and wants to see. That means everying has to be done by 5:00 and I have to be ready for church by 6:00 and there by 7:00. It is now noon. I don't think everything is going to get done.

I'm really tired of never completing a task. I hate unfinished cleaning jobs, junk sitting in the floor that needing to be moved, bills piled up waiting for me to write the check, my desk is cluttered and laundry piled up.

You may ask why I have to do all this by myself. Because my husband, who works from 10-6 Thursday through Sunday can't seem to do any thing around the house when he is off. He manages to wash a load of dishes if I bitch loud enough. I don't own a dishwasher. See, my problem is I was a stay at home mom until 1989. After that, I managed to juggle all the housework, two small boys, and a full college class load. Once I went to work, I was able to juggle teenagers and work and housework. My husband has never felt I couldn't do it all and still thinks we have elves that could come out at night if we just wait long enough and keep quiet. I ask him to do something and he palms it off on my son who won't do anything he ask him. I can get my son to do certain things. It is all in the delivery. I have no idea why they can't stand each other. I told them both that if they can't get along down here they are going to have a real problem when they get to hell. Yes, I did.

I've realized I'm angry. It isn't fair that I do all the work, pay 75% of the bills, and manage the finances while he works less hours and sits asleep in a chair in front of the television. I am aware of his health issues but none of them involve chronic pain and limited mobility or an inabilty to sweep, wash dishes, make beds, or dust. He can't pee without a cathater and he has a problem with three fingers on one hand that are stiff because he dislocated them three years ago. But since he wouldn't do physical therapy, who cares.

My oldest son will be moving out. . . I hope, in two or three months. My sister's tenant abandoned the unit and Mike is coming up very soon for housing assistance. He can rent from her and be on his own. I don't want to take care of all these people anymore. I've told Mike he better keep this job, even if he had to scrub toilets. No more gas money after this month and no more car insurance from me. He needs both to work but I figure two months is plenty of backup until he gets started.

O.k. I never intended to make this a gripe session. It is what it is. I have things to do. I don't hear much from anyone anymore so I doubt many will even see this any way. I can limit access but it goes to Blogger anyway, so it doesn't matter.

The weather is cold again. So frustrating. A little sunshine, a little warm so we can wear cotton and then, it turns cold enough for a coat. I want to go home. I hate cold weather.

So, I'm off for lunch with Becca and Cheyenne. My treat, of course. Hope you all have a better Saturday and that I haven't spread too much gloom.

Social Statements VS Military Actions

It appears that the issue of the illegal flying of the Mexican flag above the American flag is not dead. Here is a comment from the video page I found quite interesting.

ginger1 wrote today at 12:24 PM
It is wrong to fly a mexican flag on top of the United States Flag. BUT what do you say when the americans have toppled Saddam Hussein, and the american soldier put an AMERICAN FLAG on the Iraqi soil ? The iraqi people were outrage and have KINDLY asked the american soldier to remove the american flag. Simply because the american soldier DID NOT KNOW that he is doing wrong. I won't be surprised if somebody would have told this mexican guy what he is doing is wrong. He would have put that flag down. Instead of humiliating him like that.

I always try and address such statements. In respect to the writer, I have quoted her exactly. My response follows:

I strongly suggest anyone questioning this do a thorough review of history. A conquering force flying their flag on conquered soil is very well documented in numerous wars throughout history. There are photos and paintings of it happening in many nations during wars.

During the American Revolution, Civil War and other military actions of other nations the conquering force removes the flag of the conquered force and replaces it with their own. It is common practice of military forces. Soldiers of ALL nations, typically place their flags on conquered soil. Review the tapes of other war actions and you will see the conquering force waving their flag over territory they have taken. When embassies are taken in combat or altercation, the conquering force hauls down the flag of that country and puts up their own. It is a statement that they have taken that ground in a fight. It is not unusual behavior at all. Just because someone whines about it doesn't mean their troops wouldn't do the same thing in a similar situation. They would. They have.

Whether it is right or wrong or illegal is unknown to me and since my position is not in regards to a war action, has no real interest for me. Suffice it to say, it is not isolated to American troops; it is common practice of every military organization on the planet.

Only America gets criticized for anything we do, until someone wants in our wallet, then we're best friends. However, citizens of any country have the right to complain about any action taken in their countries. Although their own governments might not be so liberal. I've no doubt that the Geneva Convention, the United Nations and NATO have clear guidelines of war time behavior and actions. The situations are not similar because my issue is not a war situation. Like it or not, Iraq is a war zone.

What is happening in the United States is not a conquering force taking ground in a military action, is it? Unless since I went to bed the illegals have declared war.

These people are not soldiers conquering a country.They are squatters and illegal residents breaking the laws of this country by being here and insulting the citizens and legal residents by such behavior. This is a social statement from criminals. If this person happens to be a legal resident, he is doubly insulting this nation. Since he feels such loyalty to his homeland, he should go back. We don't need him here.

What I find surprising is those who support illegal behavior. They often are the ones who yell the loudest when their civil rights are violated. The beauty of this country is that as long as you do it legally, you can say pretty much whatever you want . . .unless you are a WASP. There are legal, civil ways to express your gripe. Had it been only a Mexican flag flying over his restaurant, no one would have said a word. But he subordinated the emblem of the country that so graciously allowed him to have business here.

Incidentally, one should remember that several statements are indicated by these flag issues. The first being that they are going to take America away from its citizens. In the first instance I saw was an upside down American flag topped by an Mexican flag. The American flag flown upside down is a distress call. Ironic, isn't it? The second is that they hold no honor, respect, or loyalty to this country. They don't want to be Americans, they want to be Mexicans allowed to reap the benefits legal residents and citizens work for.

It is fortunate that as a result, any possible sympathy that any loyal Americans may have felt for the criminals is being quickly eroded by these actions.

I respect and welcome those who have struggled and come to this country honestly to make a better life for themselves and their families. They understand the value of being a legal citizen. I know several families personally and they are a credit to America. They take great pride in their citizenship status and they identify as an American but are still able to retain their ethnic identity. That is not who these people are and their actions prove that.

I hope to God there are more patriots.

And finally, the old childhood argument that "He did it first so I should be able to do it too!" is just silly. If the war time action were wrong, and we know this is common practice, it still would not make this issue right. As Mama said, "Two wrongs don't make a right."

I point out that when you are a guest in someone's home, you follow THEIR rules of behavior, regardless of what other people do. I may have a pig in my parlor but I certainly would behave better in theirs.

The Week Begins

Spent the morning at church and then the afternoon with Sarah and Becca. Lovely weather meant we had to go "side". Sarah loves to walk! I hate walking! LOL! But we walked around and she ran. She then threw a hissy fit when we came back in.

Then she was down for a nap. We all overslept and had to rush to get to church. We were 30 minutes late but we only missed some singing and Bro. Nally's ordination. We got to hear some more singing and some wonderful preaching from Bro. Troy Johnson from Princeton. He is a Haven boy and came home for a visit to preach. It was truly a good message and one I needed to hear.

God has been sending me these little notices for about a week or so now and I've needed them. I've been asking for some direction and some answers. I've had an email and a blog say virtually the same things that this message said tonight. God has brought me to this place. It is only for a "hour". Bro Johnson used the text where Jesus told the mob who were arresting him that "this is your hour". Meaning that they were being allowed to do this but their power over him was not going to be long. He also talked about Jesus telling Judus to "do quickly" what he had to do. He said that this was again, Jesus warning those "powers" that their time was limited. I feel as if God has given me a few explanations and that is always a comfort.

As a side note, Bro Johnson was diagnosed with cancer last summer. Imagine how powerful this message was coming from someone battling such a great trial. I was astounded because I think I would be a basket case in his shoes.

So, thus ends my Sunday. am getting ready for bed. I hope all of you have a great week!

Sunny Saturday

Today was a nice day over all. My pain was minimal and I had Sarah most of the day. My sister and I went to get her around 11:00 and we went to lunch together. Then Phyllis went to work and Sarah and I spent the afternoon together. We were out side for a bit and came in where upon she had a temper fit because she wanted to stay outside. She took a nap after about half an hour of fuss.

After a two hour quiet we picked up mom and brought her over. The rest of the afternoon, we spent in the yard and inside cleaning. Then, we took a supper break. I took them home at 9:30 and picked David up from work on the way.

I just talked to Becca and Miss Sarah crashed when she got home. She's down for the night.

I am on my way, too! Church tomorrow.

I've posted a set of photos from just before Easter until today.

Who Said That?

Friday has rolled around at last and I couldn't be happier. I got off 30 minutes early today and have only just managed to sit down to try an jot a few things on the blog. I've been rather silent lately. Too much going on, too little sleep, too much to much.

I've been popping in to those where I see some one has posted something but it would seem that everyone is rather silent at the moment. I wonder if weather elsewhere is better than here and you are all out frolicking in the sunshine. We don't have sunshine in S. Indiana at the moment.

In fact, we have far more water than we need. Flooding was a concern last night for some. I am, thankfully, on high ground but if those on the other side get flooded I'm trapped on a dead end street.

I've run out of ideas lately too. Usually, I have no problem finding some soapbox to jump on but lately, there is so much wrong that I find myself not wanting to talk about any of it. It is sort of like sensory overload.

I've been praying for God to make me nicer. I've become quite jaded in my world view and I never wanted to be that kind of person. I find myself annoyed at people's stupidity and I spend a lot of time talking to God when I am alone. The conversation goes something like this.

"I can't believe they did that. It is just too stupid!" I said.

God remains silent.

"How is it possible?"

Still no answer.

"Look I just want to know, was I ever that stupid? I mean, I never did anything like that. By the time I was their age, I was running my own household. Very well, too."

There is a rustling of white robes and a clearing of the throat.

"Well, yes, I remember that but it can't compare to this! Even I wouldn't be this stupid."

More silence.

Finally, I throw up my hands. "I'm just amazed at the amount of stupidity there is on the planet! I mean, if it could be packaged, we'd be able to make anything grow in the desert! We'd have bumper crops everywhere on the planet!"

"Yes, well, you're pretty good at shoveling the stuff."

I look around. Who said that?

Patriots Still Exist

You know, this illegal immigrant thing is not getting the kind of outcry from citizens that it should be getting. We've been very passive in our actions and reactions. The criminals have been very vocal and completely unchallenged by the citizens of this country. Well, we're nice people and allow everyone free speech.

However, recent activity by foreign criminals has shown exactly what this passivity on our part has resulted in. This is becoming more and more common as we remain passive. I think now it the time to stop and I think the gentleman in this film is the clarion for that.

It is illegal to fly a foreign flag above an American flag on American soil. Yet, this is going on unchallenged. These people believe that the American citizens have no power to challenge their "rights" to squat in this country and flout our laws while dining on our largess. I'm sick of it. And I am sick of those people who disrespect my country but take money out of my pocket while breaking laws I have to follow. And crying prejudice and discrimination while doing it.

So, I urge you to forward this to every American citizen you know. I urge you to contact every congressman, senator and state legislator you possibly can. Flood their offices with calls, letters and email about this outrage. Demand that the immigration bill now proposed is stopped. We don't need this bunch of criminals here. If you don't want to become a loyal American citizen, GO HOME! We don't need your kind here.

If we remain quiet much longer, America will no longer exist and your rights as citizens will disappear. This has already begun. We've become fat and lazy because we've never had to fight to survive. Our parents and grandparents and great grandparents did that. You, this current generation are going to completely lose your identity. It is going to be subordinated to a foreign, criminal element. The actions of these people are telling you, "WE, illegal immigrants, are going to run this country."

Remain silent and passive and your children will be required to learn a foreign language and fly an foreign flag. If you can't open the attachment, watch it at the link above. To prove my point, they are now saying this man may be charged with a crime!