Since we have lived in this county, R has been called to jury duty twice. Both times he was released due to a settlement. Guess who now has been called? That's right, in two days times, unless there is an agreement between the parties, I will be presenting myself before the prosecuting and defending attorneys as part of a jury pool at the county courthouse.
When my girls asked me why I had to do this (or face fines and jail time), I explained to them my privilege and duty as a citizen in this great country. They questioned the relationship between privilege and obligation. I had to take a moment to think. We go into American history next year, although through our reading and their personal perusal, they are familiar with the context of the Revolutionary War. I told them of King George III, of taxation without representation, of false accusations supported and people executed or punished simply by word of another without evidence.
Typically it isn't hard for me to come up with comparative explanations, but I am struggling to do so with this one. Any ideas?
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You know, if Rudy decides to run for President, I know two young women whose political hearts he captured last night......
Display Comments »In reference to President Bush:
"Some might call it stubborness. I call it principled leadership."
-Rudy Giuliani.
Me, too, Mr. Giuliani. By the way, Zombyboy likes ya, too, and Emma would gladly buy you a drink :)
Display Comments »Just popping in really quick. I am having to watch the convention on my PBS station as the local NBC opted for Fear Factor. Ironic.
Anyway, I was so encouraged to listen to Zainab Al-Suwaij, Executive Director of the American Islamic Congress and a native of Basra.
A few quotes from her wonderful speech:
"There has been a war raging in Iraq for the last three decades."
"Today[sic], Iraq enjoys a new day."
"The United States has given[sic] the most precious gift any nation has ever given another-the gift of democracy and freedom to determine it's own future."
"I tell you proudly that their noble sacrifice was not in vain."
"We[sic] will never forget what your sons and daughters have done for us."
Display Comments »Tonight as I watched C holding her friend's hand while running across the street, I began to think of how beautiful her name is. They hugged goodbye and I saw the light from the street lamp catch her hair. I was holding K and thinking of how much I love them. My mind was saying C's name over and over,meditating on the beauty of it and when she got back to the porch she said, "Yes, mommy?" The lovely sound had made its way out of my head and slipped across my lips without my realizing it. I smiled asking her if I have ever told her how gorgeous her name is? She smiled shyly and pleased.
Display Comments »Ummmmmm, nope. You find anything of that sort on this tiny speck in the web. But, I will pray for you....
Display Comments »Three days a week I walk three miles with my neighbor. On the other days, we do Firm videos. We lift weights everyday (thanks to R for writing a program for me). My high cholestrol (258 total) motivated me to be more consistent in exercise (it's completely genetic), but I confess that I have other motivating factors, as well.
Conspiracy theories aren't my game and I don't believe that terrorists will overtake this country. I do think that by removing the modern conveniences to which we have become so accustomed they can create a choatic environment that would cause neighbor to rise against neighbor in the quest for survival. I don't think about this every hour of everyday, but it does cross my mind on occasion and I want to be fit enough to have to walk ten or twenty miles should it be required; to carry gear; my four year-old.
Aside from being physically prepared for anything that comes our way, R and I want to exemplify physical activity in front of our children. We want it to be seen as fun and beneficial. By having our girls swim three days a week, we want for them in their adult life to be uncomfortable in their conscience when they haven't exercised. We want them to feel a sense of personal obligation to stay fit.
So, as I push through the discomfort of another set of crunches, curls, and another half mile I have not only myself in mind, although I ultimately benefit and who doesn't want a more shapely body?
Display Comments »Last night I dreamt that I saved a Catholic priest from drowning in the Pacific at San Clemente Beach. There was a surf contest and Billy Joel was doing an outdoor concert. I don't know how I knew he was a priest as he was wearing a Gap hoodie instead of the collar. When I got him to shore, R started to administer artificial resuscitation. He sputtered and became conscious and then reached into his pocket and offered us something that was obscured. I couldn't see it clearly and was frustrated. We asked if he needed a ride somewhere or if we should call a doctor or 911. He assured us he didn't and I quietly told R to walk him to his car. Instead of a car, he had a dune buggy. R was immediately interested and they talked about it for a minute. Then the priest gave something to R and drove off. When R returned to me, I could see what the previously indecipherable object was- his collar.
Display Comments »I can never sleep when my beloved is away. Something in my soul is astir and I miss him as I would if my right leg were missing. He is such a strength and foundation- and he has a nice smile and laugh, too. He makes my glass half-full instead of half-empty. His positive outlook and enthusiasm infect me with good things and a desire to be better; to know better; to believe better.
Display Comments »Joan at Seven Inches of Sense always cracks me up. While I confess to both laughing and blushing when reading some of her posts, her transparency draws me like a moth to the flame.
I was educated in Oklahoma public schools the first 10 years of my education (let the jokes begin) and had a wonderful college Geography professor at the University of Missouri-Columbia (he favored a literary approach along with maps- right up my personality alley), yet I still can't tell you if my home state is considered part of the south or the southwest or the midwest. Regardless, Joan's Southern Woman prescription is just what I was taught and am teaching my daughters. This isn't for Womens Studies majors (unless said major applies a bit of gloss to her lips and mascara to her lash and runs a brush through her hair), so all you uber feminists can save your unhappy male-bashing comments for support, er, discussion groups.
Display Comments »Mmmmm, for a girl born and raised east of the Continental Divide, I sure do love the brew that comes from "High in the Rocky Mountains" companied with a bit of Norah.
Display Comments »I have six Gmail invites available. I realize that most people are already on the Gmail wagon, but if anyone would like one, e-mail me :)
Display Comments »I am soooooo tired. A nap on my comfortable bed. Yes, that would be just lovely....
Display Comments »1)Two words: silicone and saline
2)Bright Lights; Big City
3)In-N-Out-Mmmm-mmmm
4)The Virgin River Gorge
5)Starbucks Mocha Frappé (one shot, extra chocolate, skim milk please)
6)Quarters-only parking meters with no quarters and machines that take only twenties
7)Delayed plane-parking ticket anxiety
8)Too much perfume, body lotion, sweat
9)Slot machines ring-ring-ringing in my ear
10)The lovely face of my first-born walking up the ramp-ahhhhhhh.
A refreshing 2 1/2 mile walk followed by crunches and weights this morning with my best friend and lover is now being supplemented with delicious homemade biscuits and gravy. Little girls in dresses and bows, my man in khakis, me in black and turquoise on our way to worship as a family and the body of Christ- a beautiful morning.
Display Comments »My idea of a perfect day is to have a pipe leak into my unfinished (thankfully) laundry room. I think that a pipe of the toilet variety would be preferred. Oh, yes! Shop vac-ing, pulling back carpet, ripping up padding-this is the day I planned.
Now, on the non-facetious side of things, at least I am not buryng a spouse or child, right?
Many, many thanks to my neighbor, Heather, for helping rounding up the vac, sop up water, wash linens, etc. That's a real friend, you know: someone who will roll up their sleeves and dig into potentially poopy water to help you out.
P.S. It wasn't mine. Remember, we have three children in this house, one of them under five.
P.S.S. I am now off to a hair appointment (that's another post all together) to get the Julia Roberts out of my hair.
Display Comments »Wow! That is all I can say.
Zombyboy is always a very good writer. So, this incredibly well-written post is no surprise and it adequately demonstrates one of the reasons that he was selected a Blogging Knight of the Round Table.
Display Comments »Man! I love Dave's letters.
It's long, but worthy. Please note my emphasis to understand the blog title.
Dad -
You probably have not heard but the Regiment has been involved in a fight on the outside of Fallujah for the past week.
On August 9th, the insurgents in the city kidnapped the two Iraqi National Guard battalion commanders within the city subsequently killing at least one of them. It is another clear example of the savagery of the enemy here. The city is now without any coalition influence other than our fires. The local militia that was created as a solution to the April fighting has become a defensive army that is in collusion with the insurgents. The police are complicit with the enemy and the city is literally run by terrorists.
Read more This one's for you, Teresa Ketchup-Kerry » Display Comments »For those who believe that prayer works (i.e. no skeptics need apply), please pray for my "dad." This family has loved me like their own child these past 20 years. I have called them "mom" and "dad" because that is what they have been to me.
He has Prostate Cancer. Apparently there are stages, and his is high. My heart is heavy with concern.
Display Comments »really likes this song.
Narrow daylight entered my room
Shining hours were brief
Winter is over
Summer is near
Are we stonger than we believe?
I walked through the halls of reputation
Among the infamous too
As the camera clings to the common thread
Beyond all vanity
Into a gaze to shoot you through
Is the kindess we count upon
Hidden in everyone?
I stepped out in a sunlit grove
Although deep down I wished it would rain
Washing away all the daness and tears
That will never fasll so heavily again
Is the kindess we count upon
Is hidden in everyone
I stood there in the salt spray air
Felt wind weeping over my face
I ran up through the rocks to the old wooden cross
It's a place where I can find some peace
Narrow Daylight entered my room
Shining hours were brief
Winter is over
Summer is near
Are we stronger than we believe?
O.K. so it's now obvious that I don't prefer Ian Thorpe. The definitive reason I don't is that he is pompous. He lacks humility in sport. You can be the best; you can be competitive; you can produce results. I am not talking confidence. I am talking being able to shake your competitor's hand. I am talking about sportsmanship. I was very proud of Michael Phelps winning the Bronze. Of course, I would have preferred he win the Gold (but my motives were less than honorable; for I desperately wanted to see Ian knocked from his high horse). Michael Phelps has exhibited congeniality, determination, and he swam his personal best in the Men's 200 Freestyle competition. He swam across the lanes to shake the hand of Ian, whom he admired and respected as the fastest swimmer (who wouldn't want to race the fastest swimmer? A high bar produces the best results). Ian barely gave him the time of day, and after the ceremony, Michael reached over to offer his congratulations, and Ian shook his hand limp wristed and with wry grin.
There. That's why I dislike Ian Thorpe. Confidence is attractive; cockiness isn't.
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Congratulations to Ian Thorpe for winning the Olympic gold in the 200 Freestyle. The olive branch crown was lovely on his still-wet locks, however, the booger/snot on his right cheek wasn't as appealing. Hat tip to my dearest R for "having the observation skills necessary to locate said booger/snot." Thanks, dear, for making the medal ceremony more bearable for us devoted patriotic American fans. (I will post a close up shot as soon as I can find one).
Michael Phelps adds to his medals by swimming a personal best and earning a bronze. We still love ya, Michael :)
Display Comments »The Olympics is doing nothing for me getting my house cleaned.
I love watching even the mundane sports like Shuffleboard and Archery. I do draw the line at Bowling, though. Well, wait. Now that I think about it.....
Competitive to a fault, I love watching the best of the best. All of my girls have R's determination and my competitiveness and I do believe that one day we will be sitting in the stands watching one (or more) compete for the glory of her country and sport for the gold.
I love how the Olympics bring back memories of the dreams we had as children. I love seeing the glittering little eyes as we watch. I love the pride in country it inspires. I love the respect it demands. I love that every four years (actually two, now) my children can find a hero worthy of emulating. I love the Olympics. Can you tell?
Display Comments »As you may or may not already be aware, members of the Watcher's Council hold a vote every week on what they consider to be the most link-worthy pieces of writing around... per the Watcher's instructions, I am submitting one of my own posts for consideration in the upcoming nominations process.
Here is the most recent winning council post, here is the most recent winning non-council post, here is the list of results for the latest vote, and here is the initial posting of all the nominees that were voted on.
Congratulations, Michael Phelps and Erik Vendt on Olympic gold and silver (respectively) in the 400 Individual Medley. Extra accolades to Phelps for setting a new world record (breaking your own just set last month).
Congratulations also, to the U.S. Women's 4x100 Freestyle Relay Team for taking the silver and to Jenny Thompson for acquiring her eleventh medal.
O.K. so I said I was going to bed, and after I post this, I am.
But I skipped over to La Shawn's and found this exciting news :)
Hats off to the Conservative Brotherhood that includes several my of daily reads: Juliette, La Shawn, and Booker Rising.
How wonderful and encouraging. The NRO article by writer Dan LeRoy includes a few quotes from several of the members who the liberal media would rather paint as a meager bunch swimming desperately against the tide. These bloggers, who are all excellent writers, prove differently and are finding their effectiveness to be far reaching; even to the attention of The National Review.
Congratulations to all.
Display Comments »Went to see The Village tonight. Will write the disappointing acting and screen-writing, yet socially thought provoking movie review tomorrow.
Now, time for some good sleep. Please.
Display Comments »The music of Diana Krall was introduced to me by my mother. Of course, my mother introduced me to almost every genre of music there is. Except country. Thank goodness (sorry, Patrick).
I have been ad ardent follower of her music since I received her first CD burned and sent to me by my mom. She has a voice of liquid. It goes so smoothly into my soul that I am utterly inebriated by it before I can even recognize the buzz.
Read more The Girl in the Other Room » Display Comments »Val at Babalú has posted some terrific writings about Cuba by bloggers from all over the 'sphere.
I just spent some time over there reading (your personal Table of Contents) and now I am hungry; wanting my Cubop; ready to buy several new books; step-up my political activism; reminiscing; and wiping my eyes.
Well, go read!
Display Comments »Enjoyed a delicious cup of coffee this morning while Kris and I looked at our September Lucky mags via telephone, making note of that which we liked and that which we didn't (we both rather liked the lovely red dress that is on the far right of that opening page, by the way). High gloss shine and caramel colored coffee are never better enjoyed than with a friend.
Display Comments »R and I stepped off the plane into the heat and desolation of Iraq and climbed aboard an old school bus, throwing our backpacks onto the seat next to us. The bus stopped infront of a McDonald's and everyone stepped off the bus and into the little piece of America in the desert.
Read more R and I stepped off » Display Comments »My hit count is up to 9,659. I keep thinking that I should do something when I hit 10,000, but I can't think of anything unique and fitting.....
Display Comments »Mmmmmm, I love veggie pizza and a cold diet coke and crisp Romaine lettuce.
And guacamole with chips.
And fresh, hot, homemade cinnamon rolls with coffee and cream.
I love lying around reading 100 pages of a good book; napping at will; sitting outside with R and watching the girls ride their bikes; curling up and watching a movie together; night time snuggle talks with my babies.
I love do nothing days, and today was finally a do nothing day.
Display Comments »I knew when I placed the link to review my site on Blogarama that it held the potential for dissenters to take vengance, but I had faith in people that although we may disagree politically, surely they wouldn't give me a lower rating simply because their politics differ from my own.
I have been proven wrong by a TracyV:
Rated 5 on Friday, 06 August 2004
Great site, but I can't understand how someone with a brain can be for Bush in '04!! Bush is a criminal. Sorry, but it is true! tracyv
Rated By: tracyv
I thank you, TracyV, for being open about who you are and your maturity in your review.
Display Comments »Update: How in the world did I miss Jerry's accurate and detailed assessment?
What says the John-John Kerry Camp to the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth (i.e. the men who served with Kerry and who better to asses a man's character than his peers?) to this ad? Or how about this one?
Via Pipe Line News
Display Comments »I don't know when I've slept better and not known why. I woke up at 5:15 A.M. and anyone who knows me well knows that isn't typical. I prefer the quiet of late night rather than the early morning. However, the window was open and the cool earthy morning smell was blowing across the sill. It reminded me of something I can't even remember and I was drawn to go and breathe it into my being.
Read more Reveille » Display Comments »I knew The Commissar was good, but this was pure creative genuis.
Even though I didn't make the cut [*cough*], I still enjoyed reading it.
Display Comments »This is the latest from Dave. A few weeks ago while listening to NPR, I heard of the death of a Marine (and the wounding of several others) due to a car bomb and my heart skipped. The silence of Dave's parents assured me of his living, but I prayed for the fallen Marine and his family. In this latest letter, Dave intimates us with SSgt Clark and familiarizes us with this Marine's contribution to the Corps; his men; the war. He also accurately and informatively categorizes the enemy he and his Marines are fighting.
Read on.
Dear Dad -
We have been very active since my last update. Fallujah remains a closed city but we have made real progress in targeting and destroying the enemy where we find him. We know that our efforts have been effective and have a significant effect on the extremists inside the city. At the same time, we have gotten better at communicating our desire to improve the lives of the average citizens should they elect to cooperate.
Read more Relieved and Sad » Display Comments »I actually slept in today (if sleeping until 9 a.m. is considered sleeping in and believe me, if you have kids, it is).
We awoke to Amy's man quietly slipping out to retrieve a delicious breakfast of sweet and greasy doughnuts, bakery muffins, sausages, juice, milk, and a special treat of coffee and chai for Amy and me. My friend and I decided to give the children reign over the box of doughnuts and we split the last homemade Cinnabon cinnamon roll. That's right....homemade. Amy has a book of Top Secret Recipes. For the first time ever, I walked past a Cinnabon at the airport and wasn't remotely interested as I had gorged myself on them at breakfast that morning. Let me tell you, they are perfect. And now, I have that recipe to the delight of my family. Thanks, Amy. We had relaxing weekend as is often the case with good friends.
Friday and Saturday, my girls cleaned up the medals (they all placed in the top three of each event they swam except one) at the championship conference swim meet. The girls would like to someday be the All-Sister Medley Relay Team for the Olympics. A swims a beautiful fly; E a fluid breaststroke; C a gorgeous backstroke; and that leaves K to perfect the freestyle.
E and I rung in her 13th year cuddled up watching Colonial House after a fun birthday party with her best girlfriends at a local indoor aquatic park. I am really looking forward to watching this young woman grow and have been blessed by her gentle and kind heart.
We are finished with swim team for the month of August. But, I got a message yesterday that soccer practice for C begins tomorrow. Summer? I enjoyed a full week of it. Now, back at it.
Display Comments »So, I see all those looking for information on Janet McElligot have found me. In the last day, 18 out of 34 hits were from people using search engines to find Janet McElligot. I linked an article that I found quite interesting via Pipe Line News. This was some information I knew that the main stream media would carefully and purposefully avoid because it goes directly against their goal of decimating the character and integrity of President Bush.
To those using the many search engines that led you here, I hope you found something to either challenge your thinking or solidify it.
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HammerHead
