Middle America's Worldview

There's been nearly a week of debate over the New York Times
exposing of a confidential government program to monitor the financial
transactions of terrorists. Some have suggested criminal charges be brought
against the Times for publishing national security secrets. At the very
least, the Justice Department ought to determine who in government leaked
the information and prosecute them. While Attorney General Alberto
Gonzales onsiders his options, I want to share excerpts of a letter that
Lieutenant Tom Cotton, currently fighting in Iraq, sent to the Times.

"Congratulations on disclosing our government's highly
classified anti-terrorist-financing program. …I spent the last four days
patrolling one of the more dangerous areas in Iraq. …Unfortunately, as I
supervised my soldiers late one night, I heard a booming explosion several
miles away. I learned a few hours later that a powerful roadside bomb killed
one soldier and severely injured another from my 130-man company. I deeply
hope that we can find and kill or capture the terrorists responsible for that
bomb. But, of course, these terrorists do not spring from the soil. …No,
they require financing to obtain mortars and artillery shells, priming
explosives, wiring and circuitry, not to mention for training and payments
to locals willing to emplace bombs in exchange for a few months' salary.

"You may think you have done a public service, but you have
gravely endangered the lives of my soldiers and all other soldiers and
innocent Iraqis here. Next time I hear that familiar explosion -- or next
time I feel it -- I will wonder whether we could have stopped that bomb
had you not instructed terrorists how to evade our financial
surveillance.
"And, by the way, having graduated from Harvard Law and
practiced with a federal appellate judge and two Washington law firms before
becoming an infantry officer, I am well-versed in the espionage laws
relevant to this story and others -- laws you have plainly violated. I hope that
my colleagues at the Department of Justice match the courage of my
soldiers here and prosecute you and your newspaper to the fullest extent
of the law. By the time we return home, maybe you will be in your rightful
place: not at the Pulitzer announcements, but behind bars."

I received the above and just had to share it. I have heard alot of talk regarding the news outlet, but I haven't heard any action, yet.

Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama , invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution.

Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska , grateful to God and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great land.

Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona , grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution...

Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arkansas , grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing our own form of government...

California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of California , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.

Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado , with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.

Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy.

Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences.

Florida 1885, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida , grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, establish this Constitution...

Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia , relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...

Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii , Grateful for Divine Guidance . Establish this Constitution.

Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings.

Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.

Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana , grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to choose our form of government.

Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa , grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings establish this Constitution.

Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges establish this Constitution.

Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth are grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties...

Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Louisiana , grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy.

Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity ... And imploring His aid and direction.

Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Maryland , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberty...

Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts, acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe ... In the course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ..

Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom establish this Constitution.

Minnesota , 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Minnesota , grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings:

Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.

Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri , with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness . Establish this Constitution .

Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this Constitution ...

Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom .. Establish this Constitution.

Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom establish this Constitution ...

New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience.

New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.

New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty

New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New York , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to secure its blessings.

North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those

North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota , grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...

Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common

Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty ... establish this ..

Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences..

Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance

Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing

South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of he State of South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution.

South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota , grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties .

Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their conscience...

Texas 1845, Preamble. We the People of the Republic of Texas , acknowledging, with gratitude, the grace and beneficence of God.

Utah 1896, Preamble. Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we establish this Constitution.

Vermont 1777, Preamble. Whereas all government ought to .enable the individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man ..

Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator .can be directed only by Reason and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance, Love and Charity towards each other .

Washington 1889, Preamble. We the People of the State of Washington , grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution

West Virginia 1872, Preamble. Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil, political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virgini a reaffirm our faith in and constant reliance upon God ...

Wisconsin 1848, Preamble. We, the people of Wisconsin , grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, domestic tranquility

Wyoming 1890, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Wyoming , grateful to God for our civil, political, and religious liberties .. establish this Constitution.

After reviewing acknowledgments of God from all 50 state constitutions, one is faced with the prospect that maybe, the ACLU and the out-of-control federal courts are wrong!

"Those people who will not be governed by God will be ruled by tyrants." - William Penn

I listened to "Manager of his Home" by Steven Maxwell today. It was a audio seminar for helping your wife succeed as she manages the home. The seminar was for men only.

I will have to say, as I listened to the cd's it really hit hard on me. The cd's were not easy listening. I do not mean the quality, rather the message itself. It points out the father/husband is the primary responsible person of the family and household. It's easy to say the father/husband is the man of the house. The idea may seem pleasant enough, but the accountable responsibility (once understood) is something else.

I have to say, listening to this guy talking, I felt convicted. The discussion ranged from the father/husband being the leader. This covers everything from financial, spiritual, and your looked upon not only by your kids but by your wife as to where the family is heading.

One statement stuck in my mind. If your wife comes up to you and ask you specifically, 'where do you think God wants this family to do/be and what are you doing about it?' That's a really heavy question if you think about it. Most guys, myself included, simply go day to day, not really thinking of a project plan for the family. This question is also a very valid one. Think of working in a office and a issue or project is requested. Your asked by your manager 'whats the plan to address this'? Just as your manager or peer has the right to question this, so does the wife and family.

Fortunately, this particular question has not been asked of me. However, even though the question is not verbally asked, does not mean it should be addressed.

I took a couple of benadryls to help me rest tonight and they are taking their toll.

I wanted to blog on this, because after hearing this message, it really started me questioning, what in the hell am I doing to ensure all the needs of my family?
I suggest every dad and/or husband to listen to this, if possible. It really puts things in perspective and for me it was a conviction for me to do something about it.

Truth is indeed a hard pill to swallow.

An important announcement from our friends at Voice of the Martyrs
Pastor Beaten By Radicals While Police Watch

While distributing Christian literature, Pastor M. Aharon, was mercilessly assaulted by a group of militant Hindus. He was assaulted for converting Hindus and Muslims to Christianity. His face was covered with blood from heavy blows to his mouth and nose. He survived the brutal attack at the hands of Hindu radicals in the town of Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh, located about 300 miles east of Bombay in central India.

During this violent incident, a mob of over 100 Hindu radicals cheered and yelled in support of the attack on Pastor Aharon, inciting the rest of the crowd to turn against him. Police stood by as the extensive attack was being carried out, and the constables even prevented the pastor from escaping. Only after Aharon could barely hold himself up did police begin to escort him from the tumultuous scene. They carried out their attack plan as a secret mission to keep other pastors from spreading the gospel in India.

Pastor Aharon, who has led 700 Hindus and Muslims to Christ and has established 12 churches in this community, has outraged radical Hindus and Muslims. When a VOM contact asked Pastor Aharon what was going through his mind during the attack, he said, "I remembered Christ and many others persecuted for their faith in the last twenty centuries."

Please take this opportunity to request your free subscription to The Voice of the Martyrs monthly newsletter. You will read some of the most courageous stories and find practical ways you can get involved.

Voice of the Martyrs definitely puts out good material concerning persecution.
You can sign up for their free monthly here

As the 4th of July draws near, most of us are in preparation of celebrating our freedom and America's birthday. Unfortunately there are many countries that does not support or allow those same freedoms.

I am totally utilizing my Fathers/Birthday gift.

I was given a HP dvd840e Super Multi DVD Writer. I found this article that gives a really good review on the writer.

I have accumulated alot of information over the years. I usually pull pdf files, articles, freeware programs, ect. of interest. I was also converting my cda's to mp3 files in order to play them in our Van's mp3 player. It also helps out on our long drives to have one cdr containing many songs instead of a book of cd's.

Anyway, I was finally able to get the writer setup and figured out this week. The plug and play, just didn't want to work for some reason. Since then, I have been piling my data cdr's onto the home PC, remove the duplications and burn it all on the dvdr. I literally was able to toss two handfulls (I have big hands((smile)) of cdr's. I converted them down to 3-4 dvdr's. Yes, I had 4.5 gigs of freeware programs. I had nearly 4 gigs of religion info containing programs, mp3's, online videos, pdf's ect. I was able to install the writer on my work PC and back up all my work files. It was absolutely great! Totally being utilized and totally enjoying it.

I haven't posted awhile, so here it goes. I had a conversation yesterday that basically got under my skin. I will not go into detail, but let you know why I became irratated.

Essentially, the conversation started out fine. It was more of a discussion of where each stood in a specific subject in addition the topic was about acquiring information from a specific source. Frankly, I stated, I am the type of individual that likes to ask detail questions. However, when I ask specific questions to this source, I do not receive specific answers. This tells me one of two things. It is either a) they do not know the answer or b) they are hiding something. I conveyed to the person on the other end of the phone yesterday, I realize it may appear I am picking this source. However, after time, I feel it is one of the two above options, they dont know or is hiding something. I also tried to convey to this individual the "I don't know but let me get back to you on that" answer is not a bad answer. I personally learned the hardway, you can only BS so long.

Anyway, I was trying to convey this to her yesterday. I was also trying to convey the fact, "the more information we have, the better decision we can make." I get frustrated when it becomes 'a pulling of the teeth' to get valuable information in order for us to make a sound decision. In my line of work, the devil is found in the details. So what is her reply on how she evaluates and decides?

She knows she isn't book smart but has a lot of common sense. (her own words) So she just prays and puts it to God. She then goes into detail on her belief and faith that everything will be ok and work out.

OK. Now you have the synopsis, hear my aggravation point.

I belive in God. I believe that God will provide his beievers with any means necessary. I personally have had this experience more in my life than I deserve. However, I do not believe to throw my arms up in the air and wait on God. I get very frustrated with those who say they pray and wait on God to do everything for them. These are the ones that ask God for something, when that thing may be there all along for them. Now I will tell you why I believe this.

It was pointed out to me, a passage in the bible (since this is the source of our knowledge on God) where the disciples attempted to go to Asia, but God did not allow them to do so. In the book of Acts, the disciples was spreading the truth. They attempted to go out and inform everyone of this truth. They were doing something. This simple fact may be little, but I found it to be profound. The fact is the disciples were doing something. They were not expecting God to do it for them, rather they were having to be with-held from certain places.

In addtion, what does the bible say regarding anything you need or want?

Matthew 7:7-8 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

These are all action items. We seek. We knock. We ask. It has come to my belief and philosophy, we humans should attempt to do all we can do. When that achievement cannot be done, that is when God steps in and does it. Take a look at the history of the Bible. God normally does the impossible to show us He is God. In many examples, this feat is done after the people fail.

So, yes, I believe that God will provide and take care of us. But, come on, do your part first.

I continue to grow amazed of the information I find regarding the Civil War. I, probably like most, didn't realize the amount of foundation of this country that was laid out during the Civil War.

There was a lot of controversy in the last couple of Presidential elections regarding dodging the draft for war. The media and many other outlets attempted to define draft dodgers as un-Patriotic or undeserving to run such an office.

During the Civil War a draft was also in place to pull candidates into the frey. However, a stipulation was put in place.

The Enrollment Act of 1863 was created to conscript men into the Army. The conscript demanded a quota of enrollments for each state. The quota was based on the population, ect. If that quota was not met, a draft by the War Dept. was put in place for that state.

The North had a $300 exemption in the conscript. If a person could drum up this 300 dollars, they would be exempt for war. A substitute would go in his place.

There are some noted draft dodgers that chose their beginning enterprises, rather than the war. Among those were, a 23 year old John D. Rockerfeller, financier Junius Spencer Morgan, and 27 year old Andrew Carneige.

Do you recall the founders of the now companies?

The 23 year old John D. Rockerfeller started the oil buisiness as a side job, which turned out to be his main job.

The financier Junius Spencer Morgan took advantage of the Civil War by investing in gold. Later creating the J.P. Morgan & Co.

The 27 year old Andrew Carnegie was working as a superintendent of the Pennsylvania Railroad's Western Division. In my opinion more patriotic than the other two, Carneige had invested in shares of stock, Adams Express Company. The first dividend gave him a desire to investing. He made a investment in the Columbia Oil Company for ten thousand dollars. It returned 1.25 million. Not to be drafted, he paid the fee to be substituted. He later became the richest man in the world.

These are just 3 men who chose wealth over war.

A:

Philosopher of science Dr. Michael Ruse has said, "evolution, akin to religion, involves making certain a priori or metaphysical assumptions, which at some level cannot be proven empirically." In fact, evolution underpins the religion of humanism. The people who composed the Humanist Manifesto, which claims that humanism is "a philosophical, religious, and moral point of view," built their entire way of thinking on the basis of evolution.

In other words, evolution would be their worldview.

Julian Huxley and his humanist friends were very clear in claiming that the evolutionary story was the foundation for their new humanist theology. They knew that the long evolutionary past of millions of years, if accepted by society, would remove the Judeo-Christian God from the culture. In place of God would be the "time and chance" of evolution!

No-one currently alive was there during the beginning. Irregardless of the facts, one's faith has a part of their way of thinking.

Sadly, though, when taken to a logical conclusion, if there is no God, people are free of divinely sanctioned laws and codes. In other words, they can do what is right in their own eyes … and justify the selfish desires of their hearts, just as the Bible describes in Proverbs 30 and Romans 1.

Note this is the same theology of liberlism and all other pagan religions, including secular, evolutionist.

These humanists understood that evolution was really an anti-God religion, and they said so in their Manifesto.

Evolutionary scientists don't want to admit that they are also very religious people, who put a blind faith in time and chance, instead of a real faith in a loving and infinite God.

The writer simply reiterates seculur humanists realizes it's simply a different faith based religion or worldview. As with any form of religion, that religion wishes everyone else to accept their means of thinking.

Religion can be defined as such.

re·li·gion (rĭ-lĭj'ən)
n.

Belief in and reverence for a supernatural power or powers regarded as creator and governor of the universe.

A personal or institutionalized system grounded in such belief and worship.

The life or condition of a person in a religious order.

A set of beliefs, values, and practices based on the teachings of a spiritual leader.

A cause, principle, or activity pursued with zeal or conscientious devotion.

Note regarding evolutionist or secular liberals, the second and fourth definition above still applies to their belief system.

A couple of quotes to consider.

"A religion is essentially an attitude to the world as a whole. Thus evolution, for example, may prove as powerful a principle to coordinate men's beliefs and hopes as God was in the past. Such ideas underlie the various forms of Rationalism, the Ethical movement and scientific Humanism.

"Humanism: An outlook that places man and his concerns at the centre of interest. Modern Humanism, which does away with traditional Christianity, is characterised by its faith in the power of human beings to create their own future, collectively and personally."

There is a thought process out there. The idea the Civil War was fought over for slavery. You then have 'experts' make the remark "yes and no". So what was the Civil War fought over and why is there an ideology it was fought to end slavery?

After reading a few books regarding the Civi War, it currently is my thought, slavery only came into the Civil War after the Union was losing the war.

Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated into office February 23,1861. The Civil War officially began in April when the Confederates attacked Fort Sumter.

Nearly two years later Lincoln finds his Union army losing to the Confederate Army. Morale is down. He is being attacked on both sides of the party, politically. Lincoln's sole purpose is to maintain the Union.

"It was an inescapble fact that slaves constituted more than half teh Confederacy's workforce." (source 1863 The rebirth of a Nation)

Lincoln knew he had to do something drastic. He created The Emancipation Proclamation. He was unsure how it would be accepted. It turned out to be mixed. Once he produced this document and changed the meaning for the Union to fight the Civil War, it changed everything.

I could go into more detail, but my point here is simple. The Civil War was not based on Slavery. Only after the Union was losing the battle, and it appeared England was becoming sympathetic to the South. Once the Emancipation came out, the rally for the Union changed by giving them something more to fight for.

Can I say, I am thankfull for Friday? Man it's been a busy week. I was able to get some projects done this week. In addition the yard is done as of 1 hour ago. I had planned to do that Saturday. However, it seems we have company coming over tomorrow for lunch, so I had to get it done, now.

Work was a stresser. Home was a stresser. I am glad it's Friday.

I will be having to go to PA next week. I fly out Sunday and return the following Saturday. I will literally be gone on my birthday. It will be fun to make up for it when I get back home.

I am looking to get a part time job. Yes, we are extremely busy. I have been listening to Dave Ramsey on the radio for some time and just now found his book. I haven't had a chance to read it. But I am sure the theme will be more money coming in and less going out.

I rented Firewall to watch tonight. I am looking forward to it.

The good thing about this week? They got Abu Musab Al-Zarqawi. Fan-xing-tasic.

I was finally able to watch the High School Musical dvd with the kids.

I found it strikingly similiar to the original Grease back in my day. Yes, some things definitely differ, but the overall theme, and storyline seemed very similiar.

A couple of things I noticed that are the same in each movie.

A new girl comes into the school system.
The boy everyone looks to for leadership wants to change his profile.
Once the leader changes, everyone seems to change.
There is a girl that is 'mean spirited'.
The new girl is shy but comes out of her shell during the movie.


How they changed the plot, a little.

Rather than the emphasizes on individuals, per say, High School Musical has the whole group (or student body) changing their individual profiles. The movie has each student wishing to come out of their quoted profile and expand out of their 'thought to be' elements. In this respect, I see High School Musical conveying to the audience, 'we are all the same' and we as individuals need to show ourselves as, not only individuals with different interest and talents, but also as a whole. This is different with Grease, as Grease storyline revolved around 2 main characters.

Overall, the movie was very cute with a decent message. High School Musical already shows to be a phenomenal success.

I am nearly done reading The Davinci Code. I had started it on my vacation and trying to finish it before this weekend. Kel's aunt wishes to read it as well.

I have to say first, Dan Brown's writing is easy read. The storyline moves well and it keeps you interested. There are ever changing moves in the plot. I am enjoying reading it.

So, why the big controversy over this book? It is as one talk show host stated, "insecurity" for the christian faith? Personally, I don't think so. Insecurity is founded on ones belief structure being damaged or where the person is unsure of his or her own faith. I don't think it's a matter of insecurity for the rise against the book.

Throughout the book, it has continued deep overtones for feminity. Truly, the book has been created for a feminist or more for the female audience. There are two primary characters in the book. Each learn from each other as they continue to dodge danger after danger in chases, ect.

I think the biggest issue of the book is the books education aspect. By that I mean 'what the book is really saying or educating the audience with'. With respect, everyone knows it's fiction. Or at least I hope they do. However, over 70% of Americans chooses not to read a non-fiction book once they leave highschool. Think about that. Over half the population of America acquire their knowledge by magazines, tv, or some other means other than research in non-fiction. This is why some groups point out the 'tv shows' or 'magazine articles' ect. as indoctrination. Sadly, many Americans are lazy upon knowledge.

I would suggest the book as a good read, knowing its fiction. I would also suggest some other sources as well. The book "Cracking the Davinci Code" is a good read. The documentary "The Real Davinci Code" is also a good find.

So all in all, a good read. But just leave it as that.

As far as the movie goes, I heard one critic stating the following.
"It will be enjoyable for the readers. For the non-readers of the book, they will be lost." She was a bit dissapointed due to the movie not moving along as well as the book.

I slept in my own bed last night and it was great. We arrived home late evening yesterday and we are still in the process of doing laundry.
We drove in heavy rain from the other side of Little Rock, Arkansas to home. Yet, we did make it safely home.

The kids didn't make it very long being home. Their Nanna and Pappa already snagged them this evening and will keep them tonight and most likely tomorrow night. This will give Kel and I a night alone. Hmm, I wonder what we will do alone after being in the same hotel room for the last 2 weeks with the kiddos.

I refuse to check my buisiness email till tomorrow morning.

Kel and I had to get our news fix. Yes, I watched a bit of the Fox channel as well as G4. She watched E. One of the things I was surprised to hear was Batwoman was making a reappearance, as a lesbian. LOL
Check it here. Unreal.

We are traveling back home. We initially were going to stay a couple of days at Orlando and not even head back till Monday. We hit Gatorland, then a couple of outlet malls. We then proceeded to I-75 North toward home. We didn't make it too far out of Orlando, but we are heading home none-the-less.

For some reason, I woke up this morning stressing on an old job I had about 8 years ago. Odd that I would be thinking of an old job.

We hope to be home no later than late Monday. We still are not 'trying' to run home, rather take it easy on our trip home. Yet, I feel we all are ready to sleep in our own beds again.

We should be going through Georgia today. We stopped in a Marriott within Ocala, Florida last night. I hope we don't see as many wrecks as we had coming here.

The vacation is half over already. Today was a very relaxing day (except for a emergency issue that was resolved). Today, we didn't run from one ride to another, rather we slowly floated around a lake at Discovery Cove. It was very nice and did I mention relaxing? sigh.

Basically we hit Disney Friday and hit Downtown Disney first. Saturday we stayed half the day at Animal Kingdom. We basically hit all the rides by half the day. Our son started collecting the Disney Racer cars, our daughter the pins. I wanted the kids to get the penny press's. So I hit the penny machines.

That Saturday evening we cruised over to MGM since we had reservations at the Scifi Diner. We actually was able to hit a couple of the shows and rides that evening at MGM. We had a great time and were able to hit many of the rides, ect. we didn't expect too. The big extra was us seeing the parade that contained the Power Rangers, our sons hero's.

Sunday we hit Epcot. We again hit all the rides we wanted too. On the second day, we already learned the best way to do this is to hit the ones having the early hour. This allows us to hit the rides we want without the long waiting line. We didn't do the walk around the world, yet.
That Sunday evening, we hit Magic Kingdom. We had a supper reservation at Crystal Palace. We mainly walked main street and was able to watch the parade.

Monday morning we hit Magic Kingdom again. We watched the shows and hit the rides. Magic Kingdom is basically like a wheel with the 'lands' as the spokes. The castle lies in the middle. We started out watching Stitch great escape and worked our way around the other lands. The one thing I was looking forward too, but was disappointed in was 'The presidents hall'. It was suppose to be about the presidents but it was mainly about 'Freedom and equality'. Yes, it was a good message per se. However, it really wasn't what it was suppose to be. Plus it used the Civil War as a example of slavery(going with that equality thing). After reading about the Civil War, it wasn't a war about slavery (that was brought into it after the war started). So again, misleading the people. Oh well, Magic Kingdom was cool, but hot in weather.

Tuesday, we hit Discovery Cove. We swam with the dolphins and lazily relaxed. This by far was the most relaxing of the trip. I told the kids it was nice to just float, swim, ect. We didnt' have to run from one ride to another. sigh.

Vacation officually started for me yesterday evening when I fully shut down the laptop. Ahh felt good to shut it completely down. It's normally on all the time.

First day out we drove and drove and drove. We crossed about 4-5 states in our journey. We are crashed at a Best Western in Byron, Georgia. It has free wireless net access, so I can check my email and blog when able. I didn't bring my work laptop, purposely. So I get to use Kel's. We drove since 3:20 a.m. our time. We lost an hour crossing over to the new time zone. So its about 8:55 p.m. here. So that's about 16 hours straight? Most traffic was in the small part of Tennessee, and Georgia. Alot of wrecks in Georgia.

Going to crash.

It was a nice weekend. We were able to get the living room, hallway and bathroom ready for the painting. We are having some friends paint these while we are away. Kel literally has us packed and ready. We are officially packed and ready. I will be mowing the yard Monday or Tuesday, right before we leave to get it cut down well.

We also had time today to play with the kids on games, ect while we cleaned house. We had purchased Rags to Riches and watched it as well. I never seen it, so it was new to me. Not a bad movie, pretty cute. However, in the now, a single guy acuiring 6 girls for adoption, would probably be looked at more closely.

The kids had written a song a piece by themselves. I was actually impressed with what they came up with. They also gave breakfast in bed to Kel as well as give her a program, where they sung, and did knock knock jokes.

All in all, a very nice weekend.

It's nearing time for bed and only Monday, Tuesday left to wait for a getaway.

4 days and counting. We are outta here next Wednesday.

Unexpectedly the kids are off to their Nana and Papa's for the night. I rented two movies for Kel and I. We are watching 'Rumour has it'. It's ok, but not all that. Those that have watched it, may understand. Basically, one guys has sex with 3 generation of women. It's a attempted spinoff of 'The Graduate'.

I also grabbed 'A sound of thunder'. Yeah, that ones for me. As I looked through the movies and read the back of them, it just seems they all sound the same anymore.

The plan for this weekend was to clean the house, and finish preparing for our trip.
However, it appears Kel's mother has plans for tomorrow.

Seems like anymore, I am pissing and moaning about something on my blog. If it's not about the political situation its about my busy life.

Well, why break a going thing. I have been really humping it at work these past, now, week and half. Since we are going on vacation in like 6 days, thank God, everyone wants their pet project done now.

I been counting it up. I have rolled out nearly 50 interfaces since last Monday. I kid you not. One of my peers asked if I am going for the record. In addition, I have worked on new projects and a merge of two facilites. The merge consist of two facilites currently on two separate systems, going to one system. Basically a conversion of the systems. So for the past nearly 2 weeks, I have been basically turning on the music (loud) during my non-conference calls and hacking away. No news. No interruptions. So in a nut shell, work has been busy. Top if off this week prior of vacation, I am on call.

The problem with on call, other than it comes out to 5 bucks a night, I get the most stupid calls. Tired and exhausted, the family crashes (including me) before 9 p.m. tonight. This is highly unususal for me to go to bed and be asleep so early.

Low and behold, 11:30 p.m local time, I get a call from work. What is it about? Interfaces down...network outage...no. Some facility showing their radiology connection is down. OK. The facility says a (name withheld) consultant says she is working on it. OK. But I can't find her number anywhere.

I get up and look on my contact list for her number. As I begin to look, I see she is on sametime. We use Lotus Notes at work and Sametime is the equivalent of its IM. I simply tell her this. She doesn't first see her then know how to add her to her contact list. Sigh. This is what I get woke up for?

So as usual, once I get woke up, I have a hard time to get back to sleep. Yeah, I know more pissing and moaning.

I have noticed a continueing disturbing trend with the American Public. Rather than a continued fight for the current rights of the state and the people, there is a tendency to only rise on the removal of those rights. This is a slow rise to boot.

The history of American shows it to be the youngest country in the world, but the most prosperous. Many have fought and laid down their lives for the simple right to vote, attend public meetings, ect. Only to have their descendants neglect in the simple task to register for voting.

I attended a district board meeting recently. One of the two attending representives mentioned the fact there were so many (about 4 inches of paper)new legislation items entered daily, no one can physically view it all. They must simply rely on the special interest groups to inform them what is more important at the time. This basically puts the groups that scream the loudest or has the representives same interest or ear in power. No longer are there many in the public that have any clues as to what new legislation or changes are being put in place. Much worse, many of the public citizens are clueless of their current representives.

The main form of information are the portals from TV. It already has been determined the majority of these are bias.

So what are the public left with? Simply those citizens wishing to be adequately informed. This requires work. Unfortunately, many of the public view this as un-necessary work or simply un-interested in this until it effects them on a personal level.

This brings us to my concerning view of the American People. They are called to action by having to react to a cause against their rights as opposed to be proactive and fight for their current state and individual rights.

Wake up America, your rights, legislation are being removed, changed in front of your very eyes.

As I had stated before in a prior blog, I was bumbed by not finding my backup of geneaology files.

Well, we went to Tulsa this weekend and spent Friday night with my wife's Aunt. She also has a laptop and cable internet access. I had to check on my Ebay and seen where I had installed the Family Tree Maker on her laptop. I thought, hmmm.

I checked into the FTW folder and low-behold a Geneaology folder was in there containing all my lost files! I must had given her all my backups, letters, pics ect. Totally elated, I could have hugged her.

It was pretty obvious by her response, she had never really looked at them. However, at that point, I didn't care. I will be able to pull off all the files when she comes back in my town (I didn't have my memory stick and she doesn't have a cd writer). I was able to email most of the gedcom files to myself. I checked the folder and it about 100 megs of data.

So, this allows me to check, update my info, after 5 years of me not touching it, without having to re-enter my already contained data.

I have no clue what the parameters are as to how they evaluate this.

Is it really May already? Man, this year is flying.

I guess the news will be covering the illegal alien parade today. I understand the arguments, I see the points on both sides. However, the points spoken on either side, touches around the given subject, without really addressing it.

They are illegal immigrants pouring into United States. That is the concerning subject. It's not a needed working class. It's not a means to emphasize those wishing better for themselves and their families. It's not about immigration. It's about illegals invading our country with the expectation of amnesty. Pure and simple.

I will probably turn the news on and off during the day. However, it probably will be pretty much repetitive after the first hour of broadcasting.

It's ironic, by obvious organization (but by whom?), the illegals pick Labor Day to not do any labor. I recall their first walkout showing Mexican flags in the streets. The bias news had to comment on this. Low and behold, across the nation, it was quickly changed to United States flags during demonstrations.

The news needs to ask, who is organizing this massive stunt, rather than perpetuating the incorrect cause.

May 1st, International Workers' Day, commemorates the historic struggle of working people throughout the world, and is recognized in every country except the United States, Canada, and South Africa. This despite the fact that the holiday began in the 1880s in the United States, with the fight for an eight-hour work day....

I have created an additional Blog, purposely to promote my site Get Rid of Toxins and to post articles regarding toxins, detox, ect. This will allow me to post the information I am unable to on my site, in addition to further promote.

Yes, you can call it innovative, good idea, or just plain tacky.

I purchased 20 pages when I initially created the website. Quite frankly, a lot of information and articles are availible out there. So, I hope you bookmark, add it to your list for the information value alone.

I have added it to my 'sites I read daily' on my left column.

OK everyone check this out below. It was an article I snagged from Webpronews.
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Telecommunications giants scored a victory over Net Neutrality advocates in the U.S. legislature yesterday as the proposed "Markey Amendment,"a provision to prevent Internet providers from creating access chokepoints was voted down in the House of Representatives.

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Editor"s Note: Did the House Energy and Commerce Committee sell out the Internet? Or do you think Net Neutrality supporters are overreacting? Share your thoughts on this very important issue in WebProWorld.

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The amendment"s defeat has caused a firestorm of accusations against the telecom industry and the legislators siding with them in the debate. A diverse and growing opposition believes that Congress members like Rep. Joe Barton (R-TX) and Rep. Bobby Rush (D-ILL), who pushed for the amendment"s defeat, are acting not in favor of their constituency but in favor of the big-money telecom industry.

Telecoms, like AT&T and Verizon, want to create a two-tiered Internet where customers and content providers can be charged for premium content delivery at higher speeds and quality than other content. The harshest critics believe that ability will give ISPs the ability to block, slow, or degrade content unfavorable to them, including access to websites and email.

The Markey Amendment, proposed for addition to the Communications Opportunity, Promotion and Enhancement Act (COPE), was created to protect what proponents call "Network Neutrality,"a philosophy that the Internet should remain free and open to encourage innovation, startup business, and free speech. Called the "Internet"s First Amendment,"this concept is supported by Internet and technology giants like Google and Microsoft.

The amendment expressly warned the telecom industry "not to block, impair, degrade, discriminate against, or interfere with the ability of any person to use a broadband connection to access, use, send, receive, or offer lawful content, applications, or services over the Internet."It was voted down by a vote of 34-22 in the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

The COPE Act will now move to the full House for a vote, and then to the Senate if passed. The Senate Commerce Committee is expected to propose its own Net Neutrality legislation in the coming weeks.

"The House vote today ignores a groundswell of popular support for Internet freedom," said Ben Scott, policy director of Free Press. "We hope that the full House will resist the big telecom companies and reject the bill. But we look to the Senate to restore meaningful protections for net neutrality and ensure that the Internet remains open to unlimited economic innovation, civic involvement and free speech."

Free Press recently spearheaded a campaign through the websites blog SaveTheInternet.com, a nonpartisan initiative that attracted over 250,000 petition signatures and over 500 weblog authors in just a few days. While the initiative is not apolitical, it is diverse along party lines with membership ranging from libertarian Gun Owners of America, to the Consumers Union, to MoveOn.org.

SaveTheInternet.com doesn't view it as a total loss, however. The attention the coalition has generated seems to have made a large impact on the voting. Before the initiative launched, Net Neutrality provisions were shot down 23-8 in the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet.

"The telcos have spent hundreds of millions of dollars and many years lobbying for their position; we launched four days ago, and have closed a lot of ground,"reads the website.

"The Commerce Committee is headed in the opposite direction of where the American public wants to go," said Columbia Law Professor Timothy Wu, a pro-market advocate and one of the intellectual architects of the Net Neutrality principle. "Most people favor an open and neutral Internet and don’t want Internet gatekeepers taxing and tollboothing innovation."

Barton and Rush Under Scrutiny

Congressmen Barton and Rush have been put under the microscope by opponents lately for their financial relationships with the telecommunications industry. Both vocal opponents of Net Neutrality provisions in the Commerce Committee, Barton and Rush led the charge in defeating the Markey Amendment.

Many find it no small coincidence that out of Barton"s top three campaign contributors, the second and third largest ones are SBC Communications (now AT&T) and Comcast Corporation. Tied for 12th among contributions is the National Cable & Telecommunications Association.

The Chicago Sun-Times points out that Bobby Rush, the only Democrat to sponsor the bill, recently "received a $1 million grant from the charitable arm of SBC/AT&T"for a community organization Rush is associated with called the Rebirth of Englewood Community Development Corporation.

To see which committee members voted against the Markey Amendment click here.

It's Monday night and I am still awake with no nap. Sigh. It's nearly 10 p.m. local time. So what is that...like 20 hours straight?

Kel had a 6 to 9 p.m. confernce to attend tonight. I watched Millions with the kids. Our son didn't make it to the end. He crashed. Our daughter made it through but not an additonal movie in bed.

Since both kids crashed and Kel was out on a conference, what do I do? I finished up some emails, troubleshooting and currently running a requested script for work. Yeah, fun fun. I also put up nearly 3 loads of laundry. Talk about getting behind on that one. So now it's 10 p.m local time and my wife came home with a cell phone to her ear. Perhaps I can chat with her before we both crash.

The script is 92% done.

I had a issue with Blogger publishing, so my weekend update didn't come into effect till today.

It stormed like crazy tonight. Kel and I was awake probably around 2 a.m. After talking awhile, we finally got up.

Our last PTA meeting is today at 3:30 local time (12 hours from now). Kel also has a mom's meeting regarding home school later that evening.

The kids and she went on a GATE outing yesterday. They went to Tulsa at the zoo and did not return till nearly 8:30 p.m. local time. It allowed me to run some errands and spend more time on looking at things, I normally wouldn't have time to look at.

Work Monday was very busy, but it made time fly by. I looked up and over half the day was already gone before I barely realized it.

Update:Monday morning before 8 a.m. local time.
Kel's dad had asked me to provide a printout on their family geneaology. I researched mine while in highschool and was lucky to find someone in California (online) that had already done the bulk of the research on their side (surname Snook). I use Family Tree Maker as my choice. However, this research was done back in 99. Since we were up since 2 a.m., I figured I would try to get this request out of the way. I had to re-install the software on the PC, but low and behold, I could not find any backup files nor my gedcom file......anywhere. Sigh. Fortunately, I had the sense to create a printout, but it's frustrating I can not seem to find my cd's. I found some old gedcom on 3.5 floppy, but not all of it. Hmm, did I even have a CD writer 6-7 years ago?

This weekend we simply stayed home and did some serious house cleaning. This time, I really threw away many of my old papers, ect. In addition, while our kids visited their nana and papa Saturday night, Kel and I spent 4 hours going through, preparing all of the PTA documentation, things for Tuesday's meeting. We(more she than I) now have everything in one tupperware for the new president. Kel typed everything up for the president, while I cleaned up the briefcase and created walkthroughs for the online bank and PTA website. I hope those things we have started and provided for the school and kids, continue.

We started to actually pack for our Disney trip Sunday afternoon. There is only around 22 days before we actually leave. However, this trip seems overwhelming and we honestly wish to have the best of it. This will be the first actual vacation we really had. All the othe other "trips" have been to a Doctor, or out of necessity. We simply made the best of them. This will also be the longest duration for me from work. I always bring it with me. This time, I actually plan on not taking my laptop for the trip. I shudder at the thought of no internet access, email checking, ect for nearly 12 days. We are actually using ziplock bags for our packing. It was an idea Kel read somewhere. You put a full set of clothing in one ziplock bag per day. This way you mark each family members Name and Day. Then you simply pull the bag for each day. At the end of the day, you can put the clothes back in, keeping the dirty clothes from smelling up the place. As we packed each of, starting out with the youngest first, we find what we still need to get for the trip. Let's just say, I have plenty of socks and Kel has plenty of under wear. But if we only wore those, it would scare the little children.

Today, Kel and the kids are going on a GATE trip out of school. They will be gone for all day and not return till after 6 tonight. I will home working all day regardless. However, since I have the possibility of a free evening, I think I will go see my dad. I need to run some errands in Fort Smith anyway.

I woke up early this morning from a bad dream (5 local time). It allowed me to get some blogging done, as well as letting the dogs out. However, I don't like waking up with bad dreams. It wasn't like a nightmare, rather unsettling. It consisted of my son being used by some guy I didn't know. The dream was my son and I at a gas station and as I entered in the gas station, my son disappeared for a moment. I then spotted him talking with a couple of guys at a table. He immediately came over to me as we paid out and we went back to the vehicle. But as I got into the vehicle, he did not. Rather, he was walking in the middle of the street. The actual gas station ended up in the middle of the street and even though I was parked by the gas pump, many cars was behind me and trying to go around. I was afraid for my son, until he came back into the car. Once in the car, I talked with him, and found out he simply bought 20 dollars of lottery tickets for the guy. Nothing trivial, but during the dream, it was a feeling/worry of someone using my son.
It was a weird dream, but I had this fear for my kids when I woke up. I'm sure it's just a dream. Perhaps its just a accumulation, with all the news of kids, stress from everything and with the changes coming up after summer. I sincerely worry about not only my kids, but the younger generation itself.

We are on a verge of deciding a lot of changes regarding our family and how we do things.

PTA will be done, for us, next Tuesday. It will be the last one we attend as officers. Although, I enjoyed being part of something bigger, I think it's time. Since, we will be ending our activity (wish consisted of more time than I realized), we are looking for additional activities.

Kel is looking into creating a Girl Scout Troop in this area. I am looking to start up a Cub Scout in this area. Currently, we have neither for our town. As I look into this, I find myself looking forward to it. It's interesting on how to setup a Den or Pack (cubscouts) from nothing. There are some packs in the towns nearby, but none within our town. I am looking forward to getting this started.

Additionally, we are seriously considering Home schooling. I am still researching both the scouting and home schooling. As I learn more of each, I find a unknown world opening up before me. I did not realize there were so many options and opportunities regarding home schooling. Examples: There are over 100,000 kids currently being home schooled in Oklahoma alone. There are many many structured groups regarding home schooling. The available curriculums far out weighs the current public school system. I watched a DVD demo regarding the Becka curriculum and was very surprised to see the grade level knowledge of the kids in comparison of the expectations placed in public schools. The Becka curriculum demanded more and the kids excelled in memory verse, ect.

Do I think home schooling is for everyone? No. While there are many positives to be found, there are also examples of the other end of the spectrum. While it has been conveyed to me Oklahoma is the best state within the Continental United States to home school due to protection of the state constitution, I see a means for parents to abuse it. I spoke with a parent on the other side of the state, and quite frankly, it scared me. Oklahoma may be the best state to provide home schooling, it doesn't have requirements. This is then placed on the parents in what is taught to their children. Knowing this, you can already see the implications it may bring on the child. If you have lazy parents, it will fail the kids. I do not find myself with this concern regarding our own. So currently, I think if the parents have the means and can facilitate it, I think home schooling would be a outstanding plus for the kids.

With these two things looming ahead, I can see a major change in how we would raise our children. We could incorporate the value system of the scouting along with the high curriculum at home. This would provide us with a unparallel chance to structure our kids in a good way. Of course none of this would even start till after the summer vacation, but the decision and preparation would be necessary before then.

I have to say, I really feel sorry for the kids of our generation. They really have it tough in some areas. On one of the end of the spectrum, they are supposed to have the maturity to have abortions, sex, ECT. with out parental knowledge (see Iowa supreme court, and teen sex). Yet, on the other side of the spectrum, they are ignored when attempting to be mature (see child mom dies when calling 911 and kids call as drunk bus driver hits car).

There should not be any argument the ultimate one responsible for children lies in their own parents. But let's face it, not everyone is a great candidate to be a parent. Just because you have kids, doesn't mean it makes you a good parent.

I ran across 12 things a parent should do for their child and found it interesting.


1. To know Christ as Savior, early in life. Psalms 65:1, 1 Timothy 3:15
2. Have a hatred for sin. Psalms 97:10
3. Will be caught when guilty. Psalms 119:71
4. Protected from evil in each area-spiritual, emotional, physical. John 17:15
5. Have responsible attitude in inter-personal relationships. Daniel 6:3
6. Respect for those in authority. Romans 13:1
7. Desire right kind of friends and protected from the wrong friends. Proverbs 1:10-11
8. Kept from wrong spouse and saved for the right one. 1 Corinthians 1: 14-17
9. Will be kept pure until after marriage and the same for who they marry. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20
10. Totally submit to God and actively resist Satan. James 4:7
11. Single-hearted sold out to Jesus. Romans 12:1-2
12. Hedged in so they cannot find a way to wrong people and places. Hosea 2:6


I did a little research, biblically, and found some verses referring to children. I am posting them with my comments in italics.

Matthew 19:14 - Jesus said, Suffer the little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
This is bound to be the most known. What may not be known is a child moral values are already set by the age of 9. This is why it is imperative to teach right and wrong at such an early age. In addition, it is also why so many groups are thrusting their own ideology on children at such an early age.

Ephesians 6:1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right.
Notice it states, "in the Lord". I have seen and heard some parents use this verse, as well as the commandment against their kids. I have always thought it important for kids to obey their parents. There are many biblical verses referring to kids obeying and honoring their parents. But on the other side of this coin, the parents should bring them up with righteousness, teaching and knowing Gods' laws. We see this in verse 4.

Ephesians 6:4 And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
As parents, we are suppose to teach, nurture, provide encouragement, and good quality skills for them.

Psalm 127:3-5 . Lo! children are the heritage of Jehovah: the fruit of the womb is the reward which he bestows. As arrows in, the hand of a strong man so are the children of youth. Blessed is the man who shall have filled his quiver with them; for they shall not be ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.

God provides children to us as a heritage and rewards. There are a couple of things to note in the above passages. One, heritage is defined as Something that is passed down from preceding generations; a tradition. Children are provided by God, Himself. Parents are bestowed the inheritance and responsibility to pass on our knowledge and skills. Second, the reference to fruit of the womb is the reward, makes reference to God providing children as a blessing. I at times find this difficult to see, when a 21 year old single might have 4 kids and pregnant again.

2 Corinthians 12:14 Now I am ready to visit you for the third time, and I will not be a burden to you, because what I want is not your possessions but you. After all, children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.NIV
This one actually threw me. Although in context the apostle is speaking to the church he is about to visit. But it is interesting he notes children should not have to save up for their parents; rather again it's the parents responsibility to the children.

Throughout the bible there is recurring themes regarding children.
1) They are viewed as blessings and gifts from God.
2) It is the responsibility of the parents to raise them, providing them with the knowledge of God and teaching them accordingly.

Looking at what is thrown at kids in today's culture, one should not be surprised seeing the outcome in many of the youths. Many kids today are pushed into adult roles way too young, without the proper guidance. For me, I simply need to pray more for my own as well as all of them in today's time.

It seems no sleeping in for me for the weekend. I was awakened Saturday by work (the continued on-call luck) to a non-issue. Since I was up early anyway, I decided it would be best for me to grab my supplies for a home project. We had the A.C. fixed Friday night. It appears we were 2 lbs shy of freon. Fortunately, and blessedly, we have cool air again. I knew it was too hot in this bloody house. In the continued interest of keeping the 3 mutts (dogs) off the A.C. unit outside, I wanted to build a wall around it.

I ran to Lowes for the supplies, it took a bit to find the necessary items. To make things simple, for a simpleton like me, I grabbed some 2x4's, nails and some lattice work. The idea would be to keep it simple, but efficient.

Since, I was to go out, prior of the kids waking up, how about grabbing some donuts, and that pool we been talking about. This is my wife suggesting a more efficient run for me.

I grabbed the stuff at Lowes and managed to fit the 4x8 lattice work in and 2x4's within our van. I would be bopped in the back of the head but oh well.

I then proceeded to Walmart on Rogers street. No pool. I then went to the one on Zero street. Yes, as unreal as it seems, this area can support 2 super center Walmarts and 2 smaller ones. I had a girl find the requested pool. As usual it was someone not within the dept area and the items were located somewhere else. It was by hardware none-the-less. So I am looking at this behemoth of a box, thinking, ok, it will surely fit with all the other wood in there.

The nice lady found me a cart in order for us to roll or push it onto, as opposed to lifting it on the regular shopping cart. Since she was so nice, I decided to do the most of the lifting and pushing onto the metal cart. There went one nut, busted. But I restrained the grimace, a bit.

I proceeded up to the counter where everyone was 4-5 people lined back. I readily found the old lady cash registar with the equally old lady counting her pennies for her supplies. Once I finally was able to pay out, I was asked if I needed assistance. Looking at the "2 man lift" on the box that reached my head, I replied "Yes, please". I waited for about 10 minutes before the group of guys about 6 feet away was done drawing straws.

The poor loser of the straw drawing followed me out to the van. After, I removed the lattice and boards, we began to put the item in the back of the van. Yes, I removed the back seat before leaving the house. Rather than lifting it, he simple began pushing it over into the van. After some muscle and the second nut (mine) busted, it was in. We nimbly dodged the metal cart from hitting us as it flipped during our course of action.

The kid then took the cart and ran off. I replaced the wood and climbed in. The lattice found its way closer to the back of my head. I then had to find the donut shop on the way home. This was accomplished readily enough as it was close to the store.

After grabbing a box of donuts, I proceeded home. I had a good view of the sky as the backend raised the front pretty good. If it was Herbie the love bug, I am sure the sentence from him would be "Get that fat bit** off my end." But it wasn't, so I just imagined it as I proceed home.

I made it there with the axle still surviving.

I have to say at this point, I was able to get my project done yesterday, but the pool box remains in the van.

I hadn't seen these before, so I thought I would share them. The Email title was "Pictures to horrible for the Media"
Hopefully, they will not eat up the bandwidth. The email asked to share and pass on.
Happy Good Friday to everyone and continue to pray for the troops, our leaders , those that are lost, and this Nation!

I actually was able to acquire some sleep the last two nights. I only received a call around 9:30 p.m. and again 6 a.m. for Wednesday and no calls last night from work.

Yesterday I managed to get most of our yard mowed as well as all of the neighbors yard. With the new lawnmower we purchased last year, it doesn't take long.

In addition to fixing the garbage disposal last week, I think (hope) I fixed the air conditioner last night. These are considered great accomplishments, as I am not mechanically inclined. Mr. fix it, I am not.

I heard on the radio yesterday, I am unable to find the reference, stating Maryland has or is attempting to pass a "No Gossip" ban. I cannot personally see how this could be enforced, to what extent. It appears it is oral and in public. Crazy.

Arksansas Governor, signed into law no smoking in all buildings across the state. Many are up in arms on this, as it effects everybody. If that isn't bad enough for smokers, evidently it also contains the inability for someone to smoke in ones car if a 5 yr old or younger is in the car with the smoker. Excessive?

Rough day, Tuesday. It almost seemed like an additional Monday in play. However, Monday wasn't this bad. As you know by my whining, I am on-call this week. I was called nearly 5 times Monday night alone for network issues (nothing I personally can do for them) within 3 facilites. This all occured around 2 a.m. and 2:30 a.m.
This was proceeded by another stressfull school board meeting. It appears, they wish to remove the parents input, that they have had in place for 4 plus years, called teacher request. The elementary school is growing, and it's become cumbersome to have half the student body doing request. Because realistically, you just cannot make everyone happy. I and another member, of 5, raised our concerns because the admin wanted to immediately do away with the tradition without first informing the public. Our school isn't really key on PR and this would not help the district itself. Plus the fact, I personally asked the Super to have this on our agenda in the beginning of the school year and again middle of the school year for the primary reason of not wanting to wait till the last minute, while 100 plus parents have already turned in their teacher request for next year. So, I and another member stopped the truck from running and probably pissed off Admin. We spoke more of this one topic then it took to discuss the full nights meeting.

I then wake up 6 a.m. Tuesday morning to find the internet is out. I of course do the routine. Unplug the modem, router, reboot the pc, ect. I went to the extent of /renew and /refresh the ipconfigure in my machine trying in vain to call that net service. I resorted to call Cox cable and reported the fact no internet service. After 3 calls into them, I was informed "yeah, I don't even see your modem online" Nice.

Running the kids to school, I called my boss lady informing her of my sitch. I hit the coffeehouse and plug in. At least I was able to acquire my all time favorite coffe drink, the Mocha Grande. Caught up on my email, and worked on some issues till about 11 a.m. and boom. I lost internet. I asked the guy up front if they could determine if they lost internet, other than me not able to get crap. "No man, that happens at times, it must be Cox" Nice.

Kel called shortly after that to inform me of the ultimate information regarding Beka. She has been dropping hints of her interest for the last 3 months now, which I have as far successfully ignored. Since, I didnt have net access anyway, I updated my bosslady, driving to the seminar and was indoctrinated with a new (new means to me) way of education. In my area homeschooling isn't really mainstream. But, it appears in my last 3 years, I have been introduced to many things outside of my realm of prior knowledge. So, I take it in stride and simple listen and ask questions. Initially I have had serious reservations when the discussion was brought up, for a number of reasons. However, from what I am currently seeing, getting flak and educating those not aware of it aside, it is looking interesting.

So I find myself up again tonight around 2 a.m. est after work does a server upgrade. I am not informed by my company (thats too much to aske for), rather by the vendor the upgrade is complete. Oh well.

It allowed me to return some replies in other blogs and update everyone that comes across this blog.

This morning, I personally didn't want to get up. I didn't have any meetings scheduled at work for a change, but I knew once I get out of bed, the week would officially have started.

This is our view for this week.

Monday: The kids have their first of 3 day testing. Kel has (hopefully) the last of the PTA yearbook to be put in order. I hate to tell her, but some teacher had dumped two additional disposable camera's to be printed late. I have a school board meeting tonight.

Tuesday: The kids have their 2nd day of testing at school. Kel is going to a seminar for at home school this night. I have a 2 a.m. conference call I have to attend this night for work. Yes, a scheduled 2 a.m. call.

Wednesday: The kids have their 3rd day of testing at school. I don't think we have anything scheduled this night.

Thursday: The kids last day of school this week. The lucky dogs have Friday off again.

Friday: Kel plans to have some quality time in with the kids.

I like writing these down, it doesn't look so bad once their on paper. I am on-call this week as well. Hopefully, it will be a quite week regarding that aspect.

Having read in the newspapers, viewing it on tv, I find it increasingly disturbing on the PC front. Schools unwilling to allow the red, white and blue to be displayed on their chlothes as opposed to simply saying no to the mexican flags. Yes, I understand they want consistency by stating none for all as opposed to be viewed as bias by saying none to all but...

Being a school board member, living in a glass house, I am seeing parts of this similar thinking being expressed as well. Your in a public office and viewed to represent the state. It doesn't matter your not officially a public servant only on the public meetings, rather your always viewed as such. Thus, if someone wanted to split hairs, they can complain if you express one sided ideology or religion, ect. Some have the view if your part of a public body, you need to be transparent and "non-bias" on all accounts or subject matters. So you have individuals that have been appointed on their merits and character being requested to change their ideology and worldview once that office is attained, in the name of being fair. PC hit again. It's like rust buidup that is spreading down the pipes of our society. Unfortunately, it has taken over so much, I don't think anything can really stop it at this point.

I have started reading a interesting book titled, "Witchcraft goes mainstream". I only recently started it. I found it at Grapevine Mill Mall within the Bible outlet store. So far it looks to be a good book. The author has studied paganism within America since the 60's forward. From what I read of the book so far, it touches on how paganism has moved in our American culture like a steady moving turtle. Slow, but non-stopping. Then in the 90's after hollywood brought out a new hippier view of witches, the young culture took it on as a fad. Now, this younger generation has grown, married, and teaching their views on their own children. The author states, once a small group using the anti-christian view for rebellery has now become a adopted religion of itself.

He points out something else, that is chilling to me. These new religions from the 60's, 70'2, on onward have one common thread among them. They are all ant-Christ. Meaning, each of them (whether pagan, non-deity, deity, heretic, witchcraft, aethist)does have one commonality among them. That commonality is the rejection in the belief of Jesus Christ as their personal saviour. It appears not only has this common thread been found among them, they are being pulled together for a cause because of it. It appears the old term "the enemy of my enemy is my friend" comes home in this commonality within the anti-christian worldviews.

I checked online and continue to find startling facts regarding in who excactly does believe in God.

A new survey by Harris Interactive of 2,306 adults that shows belief in God varies quite widely among different segments of the American public.

Guess who does not believe it God? Ten percent of Protestants, 21 percent of Roman Catholics, and 52 percent of Jews do NOT believe in God.

Who believes in God? While 79 percent of Americans believe there is a God, only 66 percent are absolutely certain of it. Nine percent do not believe in God and 12 percent aren't sure. And weirdly, not everyone who calls himself or herself a Christian or a Jew actually believes in God.

Who worships at a religious service?Just over half (55 percent) attend a religious service a few times a year or more. Thirty-six percent attend once a month or more often, and just 26 percent say they attend every week. Forty-one percent of women and 31 percent of men attend once a month or more. Protestants (47 percent) are more likely to go to church once a month or more often than are Roman Catholics (35 percent). Jews are least likely to go with 16 percent saying they go to synagogue once a month or more. Church attendance is highest in the Midwest and lowest in the West.

Belief in God by geography and ageEighty-two percent of Midwesterners and Southerners believe in God, compared with 75 percent in the East and West. Our beliefs get stronger as we age. Of those 25 to 29 years old, 71 percent believe in God. That number jumps to 80 percent for people over 40, and hits 83 percent for those 65 and over.

Other fascinating facts about who believes in God:

• 84 percent of women believe in God, compared with 73 percent of men.
  
• 91 percent of African Americans believe in God, compared with 81 percent of Hispanics and 78 percent of whites.
  
• 87 percent of Republicans believe in God, compared with 78 percent of Democrats and 75 percent of Independents.
  
• 82 percent of those with no college education believe in God, compared with 73 percent who went to college.
  

I didn't find a date on when the poll was taken but it does give a brief view on where we stand. I would personally be curious on the grounds of what their belief in God really is as well. Given this information, the pollsters may only believe in a God as opposed to the specific JudeoChristian God. That in itself could be significant and dropping the percentage even further on those actually believing Jesus Christ as a personal saviour.

As we continue to see the assault on redifining the definition for separation of church and state, removing any article of religious value, inability to publically announce ones faith, or pushing for the fear of speaking of faith in the work force, I find myself becoming more and more a minority.

Talk about a double standard. Check out this article on Stop the ACLU that I get to read on my arrival home.


At least here was some good news for those believing in traditional marriage.....
A Surprising Win This week (now last week), the Massachusetts Supreme Court declined to allow out-of-state homosexual couples to get "married" in Massachusetts. The decision avoids the spectacle of lawsuits all over the nation challenging the 1996 Defense of Marriage Act, which gave states the right to refuse to recognize same-sex "marriages" performed in other states. This is a surprising
victory in one state court for which we are thankful, but we must continue
our efforts to protect normal marriage everywhere!

Gee, I see San Francisco liberal mania continues.....San Francisco Tolerance?
San Francisco has portrayed itself as a city built first and foremost on "tolerance." This is the place whose mayor "married" same-sex couples in
defiance of state law and whose most high profile community event is the
annual "gay pride march" where public nudity is common. But,lately, the
"city on the bay" has made it clear that its tolerance has limits.

Last year, the city council voted 8-to-3 to reject the mooring of the
historic battleship, the USS Iowa, in San Francisco. Why? Because the
city council opposes the war in Iraq and doesn’t like the Pentagon policy
that prohibits open homosexuality in the military. Even liberal Senator
Dianne Feinstein was shocked and called the council’s action "a very petty
decision."

But the supervisors were just getting warmed up. They unanimously passed a
resolution last week attacking the Catholic Church because of its opposition to homosexual adoption. The board called the Church's teaching that children should be placed with mothers and fathers,"hateful and discriminatory" and said the teaching "shows…insensitivity and ignorance."

This weekend it was evangelicals' turn to get pummeled by San Francisco's Government. More that 25,000 evangelical youth held a two-day rally sponsored by a wonderful group called Teen Mania, run by Ron Luce. The purpose of the rally was to inspire Christian teens to resist the "siren song" of our popular culture with its constant emphasis on sex,drugs, etc.
Sounds like the sort of thing most cities would welcome, but not the radicals who control San Francisco. Once again the supervisors passed a resolution condemning the rally as "an act of provocation."
Protestors called the event a "fascist mega-pep rally," and a state assemblyman said
the Christian kids were "loud, they’re obnoxious, they're disgusting and they should get out of San Francisco."

So, San Francisco has found the limits of its tolerance. Same-sex "marriage," homosexual adoption, abortion-on-demand, and public celebration of decadence are okay, but the U.S. military, Catholics and evangelicals are beyond the pale. You will recall that the leader of the House Democrats is Rep. Nancy Pelosi who is from San Francisco. She hasn’t said much about the "thought police" who run the city. Perhaps the House leadership ought to offer a few resolutions of its own
condemning the San Francisco supervisors and see how she votes!

Crazy month in general. As most probably noticed, I haven't had time to post worth a flip. I had a few things I wanted to write out, but simply haven't had the chance to do it.

Today is my Friday. We plan to leave by 4 a.m. local time tomorrow and heads to Cantun, Texas! I will let you know how unnaturally hard this trips seem to be. It's primarily a means to get away from everything. We have been planning on this since the beginning of the year. The place is basically a huge open yard sale with shops and sellers. We have been planning to go with Kel's parents, her aunt and our friends (said friends with the 2 kids that hang over here all the time). As I write this, both of our vehicles are in a shop. One is having a transmission dropped to be repaired and the other is being checked out for a knocking sound under the dash. Fortunately, it was already pre-planned to drive Kel's van. We were to pick up the friends at 4 a.m. and meet her parents, aunt at another location around 4:30 a.m.. Then the caravan was heading west.

Let's just say the issues didn't hit our cars, but the friends bills hit wrong and their fridge just went out today. Kel's parents also seem to have similiar issues. Kel wonders if God is saying to stay home. It's only been barely 6 weeks since Kel's postop as well. Kel and I already plan on leaving irregardless if everyone else bails on us. We simply need to get away for awhile.

It's Sunday already. We had our final yardsale on Friday again. Kel had to be at work early that morning. I took the kids to school and then came back, setup the thing. Kel's dad helped pull the remaining stuff out. We were actually able to keep everything on tables, as opposed to the last one. The wind was blowing like crazy and it simply cut right through you. Irregardless, people still came. I worked and then would step outside to check on things. Our friends came over to run it this time, since Kel and I had to work that day. Now, if I can just get the remaining stuff out of our garage, it will be good.

I have to say, Friday night was great. It was nice to simply get away with my wife on a date out. It's very rare we get to actually go out to a nice place alone. I love the kids and truly enjoy spending quality time with them. However, I personally needed some time out with my wife. We went to a Japanese place called Shoguns. It reminds me of Kabukees in Amarillo. You get to watch the cooks literally cook everything in front of you as they perform with the fast filleting knives and create fire volcanoes from the mounds of onions.

Saturday morning, we went over to Kel's parents to pick up the kids. I took over our Foot Bath and Miracle Foot Massager to use on them. It was the first time Kel's mom and aunt had one. It was pretty nasty, but not as much as I expected. Her Aunts was the worst of the two. We enjoyed the company and had lunch with them.

That evening we watched the movie Dreamer. It was a really good family movie. I would recommend it. We did our own footbaths while we watched the movie. We also had found two new gamecube games for the kids while we were out Friday. So they also enjoyed playing their new surprises. Yes, I had to try out one of them as well.

This morning, we are enjoying some quite time, before getting ready for Church.

Next week, we are already looking at a busy week. Monday night, more moms are coming over to work on the PTA yearbook. Tuesday night, I have a 3 hour school board conference. Wednesday night, so far nothing. Thursday night, we will have to be prepared for our 4 a.m. Friday morning leave to Cantun!

So where did this month go? As I lay in my bed at 3 a.m. contemplating on getting up, I could not help but wonder, 'wow, already end of the week, already end of the month'. It continues to amaze me the time continues to fly.

I don't know about any other families, but it seems ours continue to be on a fast-trac. I guess this is why time freaking flies. This week, a group of moms came over one night to start the PTA yearbook. We have another yard sale scheduled tomorrow and Kel plans to take the kids to see the airforce show. Our son's speech lessons has lessened to 3 times a week, but that still takes our time to run to those after school. Compounding this, I am trying to really get my new Get Rid of Toxins website out as well as the Gary Buckles website. Next week, we are already looking at a three hour special School Board one night, kel has a dentist appointment, another group meeting to work on PTA yearbook again, the 3 speech days. In addition, we are all taking off next Friday to go to Cantun, Texas. I am really looking forward to next weekends run. We will get a chance to escape awhile.

Regarding PTA, our time is nearing its end. I wasn't able to attend the last meeting due to our daughter having a bad earache. However, from what I hear, it was pretty comical. 25 teachers showed up along with maybe 5 parents. The majority motioned and ruled for the next meeting to be at 3:30, right after school. Coincidently (not really), next meeting will choose the next set of officers. A nominee committe was chosen as well. Again, it appears they quickly chose 2 teachers, until another teacher stated a parent really needs to be on this nominee. It has been quite obvious we have 3-4 teachers doing a takeover on the PTA. The sad thing is, at this point no or very few parents want's anything to do with PTA. Oklahoma PTA left a bad taste in most parents mouth, and the 3-4 teachers have found a new compassion to be involved. Oh well. I will again contact Oklahoma PTA to do a follow-up today. At this point, the current officers are creating a nice package to give the new officers. Everything done the past 2 years are out in the open for all to see. I will be interested in seeing how next years PTA will do. I am very concerned with the impact this will be on the kids, as they should be the focus point.

I have been able to listen to a bit of the news this week. Seems like the radical left wingers are getting more radical. Hillary Clinton has made another 'I don't know' comment on the fact that her husband is working to push the Dubai port deal, while she screams it's wrong on the Senate floor. Just this morning, I hear she attempted to speak scripture referrencing what Jesus would do, regarding some bill against immigrants. Is there really anyone, able to make breath show up on a window pane, that believes or supports Hillary Clinton at this point anymore?

Also, what's the deal with these child molesters getting off in courts and calling their choices a disease?

Oklahoma, along with other states, was in a bad need for some rain. It has been basically raining since Friday night. Don't get me wrong, I like it. For the first day of spring, the degrees down to 50's, with possible sleet and snow tomorrow.

Candles contain toxic ingredients including lead wicks that create dangerous air quality

My family and I have started to use candle warmers about a month ago. These allow you to heat the actual wax rather than burn the wicks within the candle themselves.

Ours look something like this.....



Kel pointed out the smoke, ect and before I ran across this article. I happen to be looking up some information regarding toxins and found it.

So for those still burning candles, it's something to think about. One thing we noticed is the glad candles seem to do better than most. But even after awhile, the wax remains but the scent drops dramatically after awhile. Which makes sense if you think about it. The scented oil evaporates over time.

I just wanted to share this.

Man, what a week! Can I get a H3LL yeah. We had a yardsale that went totally crazy. I personally didn't think it would be much considering it's Friday. We originally was going to have it next week. But since we had 8 families that was kind enough to fill our garage with their stuff, we decided to have it early.

I was very surprised as people kept coming in droves. I had not realized so many people were off Fridays. I would go out and check on Kel and there would be at least 3-5 people out there rummaging around. Fortunately over 1/2 of the crap was sold. It went very well. Our kids were selling soda and water part of the day and actually made 13 bucks. They were selling them 25 cents for the soda and 50 cents for water, if that gives you an idea of how many they sold.

It was a very nice day today. Tonight it's suppose to be 60 percent chance of rain and 80 percent for all day tommorrow and Sunday. So a soggy weekend.