Middle America's Worldview

I found this surprising, but healthy for America.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

+ + Partial Birth Abortion Ban Update + +

Friday, April 20, 2007

After more than thirty-four years of Court-allowed abortion on demand—at any time, for any reason—the Supreme Court of the United States has upheld a ban on an abortion procedure.

Hallelujah!

In a 5-4 decision, the Court ruled that Congress’ 2003 ban on partial-birth abortion is constitutional, meaning that the gruesome procedure may no longer be practiced in the United States of America.

This is what he hoped and prayed for when we elected pro-life legislators, even when their early efforts to end this procedure were vetoed by the then-President. This is what we hoped and prayed for when we elected pro-life Americans who would nominate and confirm judicial nominees. This is what we hoped and prayed for when two new Supreme Court justices were added to the bench.

Today, those years of hoping and praying have borne the best kind of fruit—the protection of defenseless lives.

Three years ago, Dr. Kennedy praised Congress and the President for enacting the ban on partial-birth abortion. “Unborn children cannon speak,” he noted, “but Congress and the President have spoken on their behalf. In so doing they have fulfilled what Thomas Jefferson called the ‘first and only legitimate object of good government,’ which is, he said, ‘the care of human life and happiness.’”

Jefferson recognized that we are all endowed by our Creator with an inalienable right to life. That endowment comes when life begins—and, biologically speaking, there is no debate but that human life begins at fertilization. The Scriptures agree about the humanity of the unborn. “For you created my inmost being,” the Psalmist David proclaims. “You knit me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13 NIV).

+ + Thank You + +

Thank you for joining with the Center for Reclaiming America for Christ in prayer. Thank you to the 196,422 of you whose petitions supporting the ban I delivered to the Court last November. Thank you to those of you who have supported this effort from its inception more than a decade ago. Today, your Wilberforcian tenacity in this battle is rewarded.

+ + From the Ruling + +

The ruling, written by Justice Anthony Kennedy, and joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. and Justices Antonin Scalia, Clarence Thomas, and Samuel Alito, affirms that the government has “a legitimate and substantial interest in preserving and promoting fetal life.”

It states clearly that, “The law need not give abortion doctors unfettered choice in the course of their medical practice.”

It acknowledges the common sense reality that “some women come to regret their choice to abort the infant life they once created and sustained.”

You can read the opinion in its entirety by clicking here.

+ + Looking Ahead + +

The ruling is a token of the justness of our cause and our ultimate victory to come, as we continue to cry out for those being lead to destruction (Proverbs 31:8). This is the crack in the foundation of abortion on demand in America.

Savor the victory God has given!

Dr. Gary Cass
Executive Director
Center for Reclaiming America for Christ

+ + Coral Ridge Ministries Applauds High Court Partial-Birth Abortion Ruling:
http://www.coralridge.org/specialdocs/StatementSupremeCourtRuling04182007.htm

+ + Center Analysis: Supreme Court Upholds Partial-Birth Abortion Ban:
http://www.reclaimamerica.org/Pages/News/news.aspx?story=3201

+ + For all the latest:
www.reclaimamerica.org

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
The Center for Reclaiming America for Christ, established by Dr. D. James Kennedy, is an outreach of Coral Ridge Ministries to inform the American public and motivate Christians to defend and implement the biblical principles on which our country was founded. The Center, led by Executive Director Dr. Gary Cass, provides non-partisan, non-denominational information, training, and support to all those interested in impacting the culture and renewing the vision set forth by our Founding Fathers.

Questions? cfra@coralridge.org

I thought this was a interesting snippet regarding Pelosi.

Personally, I think it's dangerous for Pelosi to be going around 'speaking' to these other leaders on her own. It gives a message of a divided country. It's one thing to disagree with the leader, it's another to engage in communication with the enemies on your own.

Reading the snippet below, it appears she is not only engaging in talks on her own, but seriously miscommunicating. We have enough issues without someone trying to put a shine on their pin.

Does Pelosi have a right to negotiate over Israel’s land?
Can it be possible that Nancy Pelosi is agreeable to a meeting with the president of a terrorist-supporting and harboring state, and yet refuses to meet with the President of the United States?
Earlier this week, Ms. Pelosi declined to attend a meeting with President Bush at the White House to talk about funding for the war in Iraq.
One of the things Pelosi said while on her jaunt to Syria was, "There is no division on policy between us and President Bush -- be it on Israel, Palestine or Syria."
Pelosi has been chided over her "foolish shuttle diplomacy." She has also been taken to task for her claim that the Prime Minister of Israel, Ehud Olmert, requested that she act as a messenger to Bashar Assad with the pronouncement that "Israel was ready to engage in peace talks." Prime Minister Olmert’s spokesperson has since set the record straight – and corrected Ms. Pelosi.
According to Ms. Pelosi, Bashar Assad was prepared to "resume the peace process.”
The Washington Post reported that: "Ms. Pelosi not only misrepresented Israel's position but was virtually alone in failing to discern that Mr. Assad's words were propaganda."

Although, it was a quick weekend (didn't feel like much of one at all), it was still nice in respects of some things.

I left work early Friday afternoon and we drove to Bartlesville, Oklahoma, where we attended a "Family Rulz" conference.

Lisa Whelchel and Dennis Swansburg were the guests speakers. I knew of Lisa but hadn't heard of Danny. I was impressed with both.

Friday evening was more of a introduction to the speakers, where as Saturday was the full conference.

Both spoke in 2 sessions that were broken up in a split session (Lisa for the women and Danny for the guys). This was nice, because it allowed everyone to hear both, yet have a special session for just the individual mom/dad.

During all this, the kids were entertained with a movie that Friday night and a magician that Saturday. Everyone enjoyed the conference.

We drove home after the conference, not arriving to Fort Smith till 4:30 p.m. It pretty much killed Saturday.

Sunday we went to church and back home to prepare for the week. I was excited to lead the mens Sunday school yesterday.

The mobile sensor tower caught my eye this morning.

Seems the Boeing company has devised a first SBInet Mobile Sensor Tower that will identify anyone coming across the borders. Their first test was a success in Fort Walton Beach Florida. "The tower houses cameras, radar, wireless data access points, communications and computer equipment, and a tower security system. When combined with Border Patrol agent vehicle modifications, the mobile sensor towers will provide surveillance data to the Common Operating Picture, a critical component of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's comprehensive border security solution."

I think it's an interesting idea. However, to identify them and to push them back is two different things. Personally I think we also need to clean up the means to deport those we find.

The kids and I went to Cub Scouts last night. I have to say, I was most impressed with my kids demeanors and the way the behave, compared to the other kids.

Prior to last nights Cub Scout meeting, we have been working on our Cub Scout electives, tasks, ect. to get them signed off at the meeting. Alot of the extra electives are simple tasks, projects, ect.

I grew tired of having to turn the lights off in rooms with no kids. So I called both in last night before the meeting and we did the 'Conservation elective'. We learned how we as a family can save energy by turning off the lights, TV's ect. , especially when no-one is in the room using them. We also learned of water usage, not to leave the refrigerator door open, ect. I have to say, the only thing they are bad at is the lights left on in the bedrooms.

So now, every time I come across a light left on in a room, I go to the kids and simply state, "I am thinking of a word that starts with a C. It's a word that we learned about recently." It's funny to see the figurative light bulb come on and they run back to the rooms to turn out the lights.

What a weekend. I enjoyed Friday night with the kids. While Kel had some time out with her friends, the kids and I watched Meet the Robinsons at the theaters. It was a cute movie. We will most likely buy it when it hits the DVD market.

The remainder of the weekend was the pits. I had alot I wanted to get done, since it was an actual weekend we didn't have to run anywhere. But alas, it was not so.

The stomach virus hit our daughter first, then Kel, and finally me. Talk about sucking.
Needless to say, it wasn't fun. Fortunately, it hit during the weekend in respect of no losing any work time. I wouldn't want to wish it on anyone.

I slept most of the weekend, when I didn't have to get up every other hour. Last night, I actually slept all the way through. I crashed around 7 p.m. and woke up feeling alot better around 6:30 a.m.

This will be yet, another busy week. I have a board meeting tonight, cub scout Tuesday night, church Wednesday night, and we leave early Friday night for a conference in Arkansas. Never a dull moment.

This caught my eye today. Seems there is a boycott on "The View" out there for Rosie.

I have to be honest. I've only seen pieces of The View, maybe 5 times in the past year. My wife has a tendency to watch it, when she can. She then relates to me some of the antics that goes on.

I was sent a email today regarding a boycott of the products funding The View with a request to not only ban, inform, the companies of the products, but to also inform The View your doing so. I recall this same action occurring for NBC's show "The book of Daniel". I commented on that incident here.

Anyway, it seems a new rise against Rosie on the website Stop Rosie.com, featuring their online petition.

I knew some people didn't like her bully'ing and rudeness, but seems this movement is beginning to pick up some steam.

Michelle Malkin has come into it to help identify the sponsors.



The video is 2 minutes and 41 seconds long.


I think initially, ABC was using Rosie's attitude and demeanor as a means to attract audience. Rosie's bout with Trump enabled The View with many more viewers during the tyrade. However, this same woman, may also be their demise. As more of the population take part of hitting the sponsors and ABC's money belt, their mind will probably change.

Contact ABC

Sponsors of ABC’s “The View”

* All Detergent
* BAM Power Cleaner
* Best Foods Mayonnaise
* Bush’s Baked Beans
* Claritin-D
* Clorox
* Cottonelle Toilet Tissue
* Crest Whitening Rinse
* Disney
* Dove Ice Cream
* Excedrin
* Head & Shoulders Shampoo
* Honey Bunches of Oats
* Humira
* I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter
* Janome Sewing Machines
* Loestrin 24
* M&M’s
* Marshall’s
* Miracle-Gro
* Pepto Bismol
* Pier 1 Imports
* Pillsbury Toaster Strudel
* Reach One Ultimate Clean Toothbrush
* Scrubbing Bubbles
* Sears
* Singulair (Merck - none found)
* Stainmaster Carpet
* Stanley Steemer - Editor’s Note: A Stanley Steemer representative has contacted GOPUSA to say that they are currently in the process of removing their commercials from “The View”.
* T.J. Maxx
* Tide Laundry Detergent
* Vaseline Intensive Rescue Body Lotion
* Woolite
* Zyrtec (Pfizer)

Please check out Falling Panda for their great efforts in pushing this boycott forward.

I heard about this going on in Europe on the way home today. The news on the radio was reporting the Church of England actually thinking of removing the cross from their flag.

???? Say what?


Yes. According to the radio news, it seems the church doesn't want to 'offend' some by the cross. Seems it reminds some of the Crusades.

This seems strange when only last year the church criticized the preferential treatment of the Muslims.

As one said on the radio, "multiculturalism causes conflict". I am leaning to agree.

In our world of multi-culture, it would be logical to have disagreements. But to overlook the truth of history to appease one section of beliefs over another? True fallacy.

This new generation of kids will be mis (or non) informed of their history, all on the account of appeasement. Those that neglect history will only repeat it.

We are finally home. I am glad for it. We cleaned up the house and started laundry as soon as we hit the door. I made a run to town after we unloaded the car and made a list of basics (bread, milk, eggs, ect.)

Since we started driving from Nashville around 8 a.m. this morning and not arriving home till after 5 p.m., no-one felt like cooking. I grabbed some KFC on my errand to town.

One of the highlights for me was the Tennessee Museum. There were alot of Civil War artifacts there. I took around 195 pictures at the Museum alone (literally). I wasn't able to use flash, so some pic's were a little grainy.



Tomorrow is work again. I really dread looking at the business email since it's been 5 days (not counting the weekend).

Up early for our day at Nashville. We hit the Opry Mills last night. It was a nice mall. We also walked over to the Opry House and Opry museum. The Museum had already closed, but we were able to see where they were located for us tonight.

Since our Opry Land tickets hadn't arrived before we left, I called them yesterday. Our tickets should be ready for us at the Box Office tonight. I guess this will be a real test of Ticket Master.

Today our plan is to drive into downtown Nashville. We hope to eat at a Loveless Cafe for breakfast. It suppose to be the 'best' in this area.

We are also planning to split a little this day. Kel will drop me off at the Tennessee State Museum while she and the kids go to the Science Center. Although, I really don't like the idea of us splitting up, I am excited to see the Museum without feeling rushed.

We traveled down to Newport today. Hit the Aquarium first thing, once it opened. I was impressed. It was much bigger then I had expected. The kids had a blast, and I was glad for it. We also hit the mall in the same area on the levy. It wasn't big, but the food was good.

We also took the bus into Cincinnati, Ohio. I found a great deal.

The book is "Civil War - A complete Photographic History Nearly 4,000 images of the war". I purchased it for only 20 bucks. It was a booger to carry around Cincinnati. Id didn't care, I thought it was a great find and I know I will enjoy it.

The hotel room we are in, is also nice. We are located in Newport, Kentucky overlooking the Ohio River at Cincinnati.

Tomorrow we head to Nashville, Tennessee. We will travel through Louisville to get there. We are looking to hit Fort Knox on the way.

I am finally on vacation. It officially started Thursday night, when I was able to get away from work. (smile)

Thursday we drove to Collinsville, Illinois. We stopped at Wilson's Creek National Museum. Sweeny Museum wasn't opened, but we were able to check out the main visitor center. I thought it was all fascinating. We were able to watch a LED show of the battle regarding "Bloody Hill" as well as a short 15 minute film. There were some artifacts we could view at the center. We didn't do the drive (45 minutes), but will definitely have to come back to check out the Sweeny Museum.

We left Collinsville this morning and made our way to Tipton, Indiana. The drive from Collinsville to Tipton was pretty dry. I seen farm land after farm land as far as the eye could see.

We met up with Anne and her husband. It was nice to find our destination. I had to dust off my pool experience (been a couple of years) and play her husband. We also purchased the movie The pursuit of happyness and watched it together. It was an awesome, character driven movie.

We hit Indianapolis tomorrow for the day.

I found an interesting search engine called Good Search.

Every time you use GoodSearch, they will donate one penny ($0.01) to the charity of your choice. It's an interesting idea.

The example the provide is the following.

For instance — if 10,000 people searched 5 times a day, that could easily multiply out to an amazing $182,500 a year in support for the charity! JUST FOR DOING SOMETHING YOU ALREADY DO EVERY DAY!

GoodSearch works just like Yahoo! or any other search engine. You don't need to download any software, sign any agreements, pay any money, or even give them your name. And GoodSearch is powered by Yahoo!, one of the most reliable search engines out there. So you can be sure it's reputable, safe, and secure.

Here is the link that shows how to use the Good Search Engine

You can also download it to IE or Firefox, via a toolbar.

I received a email for "Prison Fellowship" mentioning the Good Search Engine.

Another great find on YouTube!



The video is 5 minutes 43 seconds.

Today and tomorrow. That is my mantra today. I already have my suitcase packed and ready to head out of here tomorrow.

No surprise. My preconceived thoughts to have certain things accomplished while I am up here, did not come through. However, other items have. So I simply take what I can.

Tuesday is the only evening I actually did not stay over an hour at work. Last night, I didn't leave till 6 p.m. It's like that up here. I only have a empty hotel room to go to, so why not work? (shrugging shoulders).

I plan to leave on time (ha ha) today, due to a really early flight out tomorrow. This will allow me to get to bed early tonight.

A fascinating Evolution video I came across last night.




The video is 9 minutes, 59 seconds. Well worth the time.

Although, I do not enjoy leaving the family behind as I come up here in PA, I do learn more of the group I work with each time.

Yesterday, unexpectedly, both boss ladies and a peer came to lunch with me. Normally I only take a peer out to lunch. This becomes a one sided conversation as I listen to my peer's frustration, expectation, ect.

There is a different atmosphere when the group is together. Individually, they are more reserved in discussion. However, each (well 2 anyway) still discusses something about themselves, I didn't know before. I truly find it fascinating to listen to people's experiences, history. This puts a new facet of themselves out there that allows me to gleam a little more understanding about them. The more I know about them, the easier it is for me to understand their view and perception of how the world operates for them.

The lunch was unexpected, but enriching.

Yesterday, I was in the office nearly 12 hours. I didn't get out till 7 p.m., hitting TGIF on the way to the hotel.

I was able to watch "Enterprise" and "Digging up the Truth" before crashing last night. I also picked up some Tylenol PM to assist my rest while I am up here.

I also spoke with the boss lady and it does not appear I will be required to buy another pair of shoes while I am here. I am glad, because I just can't see buying some shoes when I have 2 brown shoes at home in the closet.

I touched down in PA last night around 10:30 p.m. est time. After I picked a car from National and drove to King of Prussia, it was around 11:30 p.m.

Since I drunk 2 cups of coffee on the plane, I didn't get to sleep till well after 1 a.m. During that time, I caught a bit of Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO. I found myself actually enjoying it. He had Huckabee on the show for a bit. I was impressed with Mike's answers.

It was in the 60's for temperature at home, I came into snow on ever side of the road here in PA. Below is a quick shot (via phone) of the parking lot.

Believe it or not, I failed to bring my shoes. Bummer, I will be having to were the white tennis shoes today. I guess I will have to hit the mall this evening after all.

It's been awhile since a good post, so here it goes.

First, I am glad it's Friday. It has been a long week, with everything going on. I had a special school board meeting Monday night, an additional 3 and 4 year old 24/7 all week, the same raw busy running as usual (speech, church, ect.), and a unexpected call from work to top it all off. Seems, I will be running up to Corporate the week of the 19th. This was unexpected but hopefully a good trip.

The nephews should be picked up today before 3 local time. Last night one of them fell out of bed and had a bad dream. I am thinking it is probably due to having to leave today. They tell us, they miss and want to see their dad (nothing for their mom), but do not want to go home. They want to spend the night again, again, again, .....
You get the picture.

I have the regular school board meeting next Monday night. I will be taking a friends daughter with mine to a irish dance class this evening. I will have the son tag-a-long with us. Kel has to prepare for a float tomorrow while we are away.

Tomorrow holds for us a annual cub scout derby, the float, and a irish dance. A busy Saturday to say the least. Our regular church visit will be Sunday. So essentially the weekend is shot already.

Next week looks just as busy.

So, if I resort to only one good updated blog per week, hope you 5 readers will understand. (smile)

We had a great weekend away at Tulsa. The kids and I were able to play a game of LaserQuest. There were 26 players involved (2 birthday parties were happening) in the game we participated. Out of 26, guess who actually won? Yeah, I actually had the highest score. I was surprised at that as well.

Our daughter participated in the Jr. Vet class at the Zoo. I think she really enjoyed it. She was able to, among other things, dissect a chicken wing. LOL

In other news, I ran across this article involving YouTube and BBC. Since I have become addicted to YouTube, I found it interesting.

YouTube Strikes a Deal with the BBC
Joe Lewis | Staff Writer

In a move that seems to run contrary to recent trends, YouTube has
actually come to an agreement with a major content provider. The
BBC announced on Friday that it has struck a deal with the popular
video-sharing site that will see the UK based broadcasting company
share in advertising revenue generated by YouTube traffic.

After highly publicized breakdowns in negotiations with CBS and
Viacom, it looks like Google and YouTube have finally managed to
court a suitor into the video-sharing fold, avoiding any potential
copyright snares that might ensue with current BBC content on the
site.

The BBC's Tim Weber has more on the particulars of the agreement:

"One of the BBC's two entertainment channels will be a "public
service" proposition, featuring no advertising."

"It will show clips like trailers and short features that add
value - for example, video diaries of David Tennant showing
viewers around the set of Dr Who or BBC correspondent Clive Myrie
explaining how difficult it is to report from the streets of
Baghdad."G

I remember the song "Working for the weekend" by Loverboy back in the day.

Seems that is what we do anymore. At least for those that have a weekend off . Time is flying so fast anymore, we turn around and the weekend is among us already. I know I will blink twice and the weekend will be over.

Irregardless, I am looking forward to the weekend. We plan to go to Tulsa to visit family. Our daughter has a Jr Vet class scheduled for tomorrow. I also plan to play a laser tag game with them as well.

So today will fly like norm and I will working for the weekend.

It's been real nice to actually have a weekend off without the worry of going to work. My primary job still enters my mind, but it's the first full weekend in quite some time to not have to be somewhere for 10 + hours.

I was able to enjoy sleeping in till nearly 8 a.m., play with the kids, straighten the garage, move one of the kids furniture around in their bedrooms, enjoy some time with Kel's family, and that was only Saturday.

I know Kel is looking forward to being able to go to church with all of us (me included ) today.

I finished up reading Biblical Demonology: A Study of Spiritual Forces at Work Today. It is a fascinating read with detailed information.

I have started a new one entitled, The Believer's Guide to Spiritual Warfare: Wising Up to Satan's Influence in Your World. It also looks to be a good book.

I have also been attempting to learn some additional freebie programs. One is called VirtualDub. I am trying to get the best out of video making. I guess we will see where it goes. I have some ideas, but as you know putting those ideas into action, is another thing.

All in all, I have and continue to enjoy my first weekend off.

I should also mention (though not the least importance), Kel and I actually had a nice date Friday night. We went to see the movie Music and Lyrics.I thought it was cute. I really cannot recall the last movie Kel and I went to see. It's been that long.

I watched this vid yesterday and it really hits to the heart of the matter with America church today. The video is 24 minutes long, but well worth the time. The speaker does not babble around as many do, but keeps driving home the message.

A video well worth watching.

I had a brief moment at Walmart during my pepsi run today. I usually like to check out the electronics to see if anything came out on dvd's. I was checking out the new music cd's when I see a new cd put out by Ashley Tisdale.

Ashley Tisdale plays on "The Suite Life of Zach and Cody", on the Disney channel. I have seen it enough times with the kids to recognize the name. I wasn't aware of her putting a cd out. I knew she played in 'High School Musical'. Yes, we own both The Suite life and High School Musical dvd's.

Anyway, I kept looking at the picture on the cover, because it didn't look to be the same girl. I ran the cd under the barcode to listen to a piece of her song. It actually played a piece of a video of her singing. Let's just say.....It definitely didn't look like the same girl I am use to seeing on Suite Life.

Not being naive, I know sex sells. But, come on. She was born in 85 making her (counting fingers), wow 22? I didn't realize she was 22. Well, that explains it.

Ashley's official site

Tuesday was vote day for Pocola. A new school board term came up. There were only 2 candidates to choose from. I personally do not really know either one. I was (I guess should not be) surprised neither really campaigned. I only seen one (the one that that won the term) put a ad in Spiro paper, the other did nothing. Rather, I was told he did nothing. Neither called nor contacted me. Personally, I contacted the board members during my campaign.

It does sadden me candidacy puts so little effort in creating a platform of "why I want this responsibility", rather than lean on whoever is better known in town.

I called the Election Board today to get the final vote. 102-80. Not much of an outcome for the town either, if you consider there was nearly 4000 in population for the year 2000.source.

Oh well. We have a special board meeting this next Monday night. Looks like we will be bringing in the new guy.

I took a snapshot while I was at work today. Notice the arrows pointing to the security.



I am sure you see them at the front entrance, but they are also in the back doorways as well. Eventually they will be so sensitive, they will be able to auto-log the products going through the security scanners.

Check out RFID in Clothing and Anti RFID for some interesting reading regarding RFID.

Think of every product having an RFID that provides the necessary information to identify it. Then pass the products through the security sensors.

You see the greeters when you come into the Walmart. They normally say hello, ect.

However, if you happen to leave, you might have been one of the customers been stopped with the loud "We're sorry, there must have been a mistake....an associate will assist you momentarily". Then the greeter becomes the security agent. They check the bags ect. to determine what might still need to be scanned.

Yesterday, I came back from my route and had the unfortunate sight of one Walmart associate on either side of some girl, with a 3rd associate following. The poor girl was bawling and crying. She kept saying over and over "Please no. It was my first time." I am sure she was caught stealing. sigh.

With all the hype of illegal music download, especially in college campus, I thought this gem was interesting.

Ruckus makes free, legal music downloading available to all college students
Date: 01/07
Ruckus music announced this week that due to the overwhelming number of requests that they receive on a daily basis from students at universities not affiliated with Ruckus, that they will provide their free, legal music download service to all college students.

In a recent communication to OSHEAN members, Mairin Brzica, Director, Campus Sales for Ruckus Network said:

“While we do not want to turn all of these students away, it is important we make clear that our business will continue to be based on strong partnerships with universities. We will continue to sign on new schools - upcoming new partners include Texas Tech University, Oregon State, University of Illinois Chicago and many more - and as an affiliated partner your school will continue to receive several important benefits.”

Brzica continues, “First, our video library, which will soon be available with an expanded offering, will only be available to students at your school and other affiliated schools. In addition, the cache server at OSHEAN that provides media locally across your campus network will provide you with significant bandwidth savings and much faster download speeds. Students will have a far better overall experience. “

Get more information

Ruckus Music Service Subscription Levels at OSHEAN Partner Schools

It continues to amaze me how the week flies. It's already the 9th of February. I am up once again before 5 a.m. At least today, I have a foreknowledge of when my day will end. Yesterday lasted longer than expected.

I have another school board meeting next Monday night. Looks like a large agenda. Most shouldn't take long though. Seems whomever wrote it, still did not get it down correctly. Sigh.

In some way, I am looking forward to this weekend and next being my last Pepsi weekends. I look forward to sleeping in till 8 a.m. for at least one morning.

Not much to comment. Just work, school, more work this week.

This week sure did fly by. Not that all do anymore.

I will run to grab my Pepsi check today. We all stayed home yesterday due to the weather and we simply didn't want to travel.

Last night, I worked with the kids to catalog all their dvd's and movies. I had them open every one of them to ensure a) a dvd was in the case and b) the right one was in there.

We did nearly all the tapes as well. I need to finish up some remaining in brae's room.

Unbelievably, we logged nearly 260 dvd's and over 70 tapes. I wanted to do this for some time, but never got around too it. This will now allow us to know exactly what we have and which remaining tapes (those that we really want) we need in DVD format.

We will catalog the games today.

Speaking with Kel the other day, we decided on my last day to work at Pepsi. It has been troubling me more than usual lately. I will be giving them my resignation today.
Yes, I will actually miss it. I really enjoyed working on the weekends. However, with additional activities coming up and my realization the kids will not be getting any younger, I know I need to spend more time at home with the family.

One thing is for sure. I still intend to utilize my time on the weekends with the kids and projects.

I will have to be checking this book out and look forward to seeing the dvd.

Daryl Hannah, Sex Slaves & the New Global Sex Trade


Every year, an estimated 14,000 girls are smuggled into the United States from Eastern Europe and Asia and forced into secret sex slave rings. Actress Daryl Hannah, who recently revealed her own near-miss with a sex-slave ring, is now hoping her experience may help spotlight an issue that is long over-due to get American and worldwide attention.

Daryl Hannah

Actress Daryl Hannah is hoping to bring awareness to the devastating effects of global sex trafficking going on around the world -- after revealing her own near-miss with a sex slave ring.

Hannah, now 46, revealed that in the late 1970s she was offered a chance to model for an album cover in Las Vegas. However, she soon realized the offer was actually a scam to force her into a sex slave ring. Upon the realization, she and another girl were able to escape from a window and get back to Los Angeles unharmed -- however, thousands of other girls are not so lucky.

Hannah is hoping to bring awareness to this issue through a low-budget film that's in the works. The former "Splash" actress will be going undercover with hidden microphones and cameras to document what's really going on in brothels around the world.

"The more I learn, the more I am moved to take action," Hannah said.

"The Natashas" Reveals the Shocking, Dark Reality of Global Sex Trade Rings

In all, an estimated 1 million young women are sold worldwide for sex every year. In the Middle East, the women are known as "Natashas" (regardless of what country they came from), and they're the subject of an eye-opening and highly recommended exposé, "The Natashas: The New Global Sex Trade," by Canadian investigative journalist Victor Malarek.

The book reveals that girls as young as 10 are sold into this "21st century slavery," and forced to work in brothels, massage parlors, strip clubs and in apartments as private sex slaves in just about every corner of the world, including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, the United States and Canada.
Malarek reveals how women are smuggled into various countries under false pretenses, only to be beaten into submission, raped repeatedly and sometimes murdered.

A Necessary, Yet Shocking, Wake Up Call

The Natashas: The New Global Sex Trade

"The Natashas: The New Global Sex Trade" is an eye-opening investigation that reveals the uncensored truth about the fates of over 1 million women and children sold into secret sex rings every year. Truly a riveting and important book worth your time!

"They think they're going to be waitresses, nannies, work in a hotel, that kind of thing. Then they get busted and broken," said Malarek. "Once women are beaten into submission, they never question their pimps after that. They do as he says or he will kill them, and the other girls see it."

A $12-Billion Industry, Supported by Officials

Sex trafficking, though hardly ever talked about, is the third most profitable black-market commodity.

"This is a $12-billion-U.S.-a-year industry, and it represents the world's third largest criminal money-making venture behind drugs and weapons," Malarek says.

While the women receive nothing (and are lucky to even get food), the gangs behind the sex rings earn huge profits, selling women for $500 to $10,000 (and the pimps that buy them easily make back the money, Malarek says).

Adding to the already desperate scenario, the people who are supposed to be rescuing the women are often in on the scam. In some countries, Malarek says, "the largest number of users of these trafficked girls, these slaves, are United Nations peacekeepers, international aid workers and international police officers, who come to bring freedom and democracy."

"You had people being arrested for war crimes, including on charges of rape, and then in comes this international group which is essentially doing the same thing, but calling it R-and-R -- rest and relaxation. That's the irony," he says.

Malarek has uncovered many of the scandals reported in "The Natashas" first-hand, by visiting countries from Bosnia to Isreal to the Ukraine. Though what you will read is shocking, "The Natashas: The New Global Sex Trade," is an indispensable cry for help from women and children forced into sex rings, and represents a major call to action for people worldwide.

Overview

Money can put us in bondage. God wants to free us from this bondage and help us put money in its proper place by considering it his rather than ours. This six-session course will challenge the way you see money.

Session One

Money Belongs to God
Only by recognizing where money comes from can we be free of its power.
Psalm 24:1; Mark 4:14�21; 10:17�31; 1 Corinthians 4:7

God wants to help us get rid of the word mine when it comes to money. We need to think of our money not as ours, but rather as what it truly is: his.

Session Two

Money Traps Us into Wanting More
Instead of satisfying, money makes us hungrier.
Mark 10:17�22; Colossians 1:9�13; Hebrews 13:5

The strange thing about accumulating money is that it makes us want more. Only God can reorient this natural tendency.

Session Three

Money Lulls Us into Thinking We Have Power
Money isn�t just money; it is power, but its power can go either way.
Proverbs 30:8; Luke 16:1�15; 1 Timothy 6:17�19; Ecclesiastes 5:10�15

Money has the power to hurt and corrupt, or the power to heal and help. It also has the power to consume.

Session Four

Money Fails to Buy Happiness
True pleasure comes from contentment rather than from wanting more.
Matthew 6:25�34; Philippians 4:10�13; 1 Timothy 6:6�10

Even if we don�t admit it to ourselves, we think that money can bring us happiness. We want to make more money so we can buy more stuff and go more places. But money rarely brings us long-lasting pleasure.

Session Five

Money Convinces Us It Will Bring Us Prestige
Real prestige can only come from God.
Luke 12:16�21; 21:1�4; James 2:1�5

For many of us, how much we make, how much we have saved, or the kinds of things we own are indicators of what we�re worth. However, God infuses us with real prestige when we invest our money compassionately.

Session Six

Money Is to Be Used for God
Open your mind to the possibilities of using your money for God�s glory.
Isaiah 55:1�9; Acts 4:32�35; 1 Timothy 6:10�12

Money brings all sorts of impossibilities to our minds. But when we look in our wallets, God wants us to see possibilities: for making a difference, for contentment, and for freedom that we�ve never known before.

I came across this vid on YouTube describing things and people being chip. It's worth your 9 minutes to watch.

No, this isn't the mark of the beast. However, it definitely is a means to desensitize people in accepting it later on.

I came into town with no issues.

Saturday I spent it with the family. I had taken today off with Pepsi. I needed the rest and time with the kids and wife.

I took the kids to Spiro Mounds today. It was the only time I really could. They are closed any other time, I am off work.

I had planned on taking the video camera and doing a walkthrough with it. But I didn't. I was raining anyway, so we only hit the inside. Although, I haven't been there for years, I knew it was pretty small. It didn't take long to walk around.

I enjoyed the day with them, but it went way too fast.

Well, this is my official last day up here. I depart around 7 a.m. est tomorrow morning. I am sure I will be up by 2:30 or 3 a.m. in the morning ready to get out of here. I already have my stuff pretty much packed. They call for snow today, so we will see how that goes. With any luck, no delays.

I have to provide a overview on a application today. Funny, I am not the senior analyst, and I am the only one presenting something while everyone is in town. I was told yesterday, I had sit one on one with the senior analyst to teach him this application. One of the big boys at Corporate would like to see how a senior analyst does on it (rolling eyes). People put too much stock in titles. Don't get me wrong. The guy is nice, but why do I have to hand hold the others to train them. I am finding many people are much to re-active as opposed to pro-active. I have been trying to sit with this group for 4 months already.

I ended up in bed around 11 last night. I did manage to work on some home videos last night. I also happened to watch the Scifi channel (Kel gasps in surprise). There was a really good movie about Vlad Dracul. I liked it anyway. I noticed this review gave it a C.

We will order in lunch today for the team. I ate the last of my salad last night. So I shall leave work today and hit TGIF's on my way to the hotel. I did pretty good while I was up here in my eating habits. It was also remarked to me yesterday, I looked like I lost weight. That made me feel good.

While I was up here, I only hit the mall once (probably will again tonight). I basically hit work and the hotel. Doesn't get any simplier than that.

I can tell why some people get wrapped up in their work. I see it up here, everytime I come. There are those individuals that have their work as their identity. Everything revolves around it. Their success or failure at the work force drives their value of themselves. When they put those same "unrealistic" goals upon others that do not share that same view, it gets complicated in working with them. Personally, my world is currently in Oklahoma. Being away from them (even for a short time) is a reminder of it. That, and re-watching the home videos is a stark reminder of how fast time truly does fly.

It's early Wednesday morning. Amazingly 2 days have already passed. One of my peers took me ( I actually drove having the rental ) over to Whole Foods Tuesday for lunch.
It's similar to Trader Joe's, but seems a little more expensive. The place was larger and had a big salad bar, sandwiches, wraps, ect. I had a Creole wrap that was good. I was able to find the dried stuff Kel likes. So I snagged them.

Yesterday, I had a talk with the boss lady. During our updates, I pointedly asked "So you mentioned wanting me to come up here more often. How often are we talking about?" You see, I normally come up here once a quarter per year. She replied, "Oh, you know a couple more times." I finally was able to try to pin point it down. Seems she would be glad to see me up here once every other month (6 times a year) if I could. IE not traveling elsewhere, ect. Not sure how that will effect my part-time job, having to leave every other month. But that wasn't suppose to be forever (Although, I was hoping for another year at least). I guess one thing, it will acquire us many more points on the credit card to get those restaurant gift cards. : )

Last night, I went by the mall. I was still good on the eating. I purchased a Cobb Salad at TGIF's and picked up the new Avatar dvd for the kids. I will probably watch it with them Friday night. I actually enjoy the storyline in it.

I crashed at 9 p.m est last night, not seeing the State of the Union. I picked up some melatonin at Whole Foods and made good use of them.

In case your wondering, yeah, I woke up at 5 a.m. this morning without an alarm. That's actually 4 a.m. my normal time zone.

1st day down, 3 to go.

I was still up and moving along this morning. It's 9:31 p.m. currently.

I was able to go to Trader Joes after I left work today. Below is my haul.

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Basically, a couple of salads, 3 soups, some chocolate covered goodies, dried fruit and some "spicy Soy & Flaxseed Tortilla Chips (not shown).

I worked on my new video for youtube. I also am currently watching the Atlantis special on the history channel.

During all this, I am also importing home dvd's onto the laptop to add some titles, ect and burn them back onto DVD's.

Now I am growing tired. The lack of sleep is catching up with me.

Sigh, last night was a bummer for the realm of sleep. I didn't get the bed till one a.m. eastern. Then around 3:30 a.m. some alarm went off in the hotel. I literally pulled the clock radio out of wall, thinking some knucklehead has preset it before me. I finally found a button on the wall to push to stop the siren. Then weird dreams kept me fitfully awake.

I am up and already showered. Perhaps today will go fast so I can get some sleep tonight.

Looking online this weekend, I see there is a Trader Joes' merely 5 miles away from Corporate. I will definitely be checking this out, perhaps this evening.

I made it to King of Prussia, PA with no issues. Fortunately, the roads were not bad up here. My departure time was 4:30 p.m. central time. I finally touched down (going through Memphis) 9:58 p.m. eastern. I then had to grab a car at National and drove up to King of Prussia from Philly.

So now it's 12:11 a.m. eastern and I am about to hit the bed.

I was actually scheduled off this last Friday. So, my week went quick (quicker than normal). We ran up to Tulsa to see the From Abraham to Jesus exhibit. I really enjoyed it. We even made it out of there without purchasing any items at the bizarre. You couldn't take any pics nor vids though. : (

At the end of the walkt hrough, they had a actual piece of the Dead Sea Scrolls. That was really cool. It was worth the money to go.

This morning I am warming up the van to go to Pepsi for the day. The so-call weathermen changed their minds 5 times last night and now decide it will only rain this weekend. Yeah, we really have gone far from sticking our wet fingers in the air.

Tomorrow, I will be flying out to Corporate. I am glad to not see the ice storm, everyone had feared. I need to get my things together for tomorrow's trip. At least I will be able to attend Church in the morning.

It's Tuesday, but my hump day. I am actually off Friday! Woo hoo.

Yesterday was a bust for me. I didn't get anything I wanted accomplished and it just flew by. Perhaps today will mesh better.

I have to fly out to PA next Sunday. I booked a evening flight. I return the following Friday. This way, I will have this Friday off with the family, most of Sunday (before I fly out) and return the following Friday, spending a bit more with them. I plan to work on my website, ect. when I am up there alone.

I also started another project with the home videos. I had to buy a S cable to hook up our mini-camcorder to our DVD/VHS recorder yesterday. So last night, I played with it and was able to push the tape onto a DVD. I went further in acquiring a software that converts VOB (dvd) files to AVI (plays on the computer). Since I have been playing with the free Window movie maker 2 software, it will allow me to now add titles, ect to those home videos. I plan to get all of them converted over, titled, ect. and then provide copies to the rest of the family this Christmas. I been wanting to do this for some time, but just didn't have the means nor time to do it before.

I will be taking those home DVD's with me to work on next weeks evenings.

I was starting a new blog from a homeschool dad perspective. Mostly to acquire contacts, ect.

While I was working on adding new links, I came across a cool find. Christian.net has free movies on their site. I guess everyone is getting in on a youtube type of portal. This free movie can be viewed online. It discusses Creation/Evolution. I haven't watched all of it, as I just found it. However, I am impressed from what I have seen so far.

Last night the little guy and I went to cub scouts. He had a blast. It's only for an hour, but he really enjoys it.

Yesterday, I spent all my free time replacing the kids closet doors. We had those bi-fold type.

Now they have sliding doors. Much easier to handle. I grew tired of the bi-fold doors popping out of those gliders on top.

I actually managed to do it, ( Not the handyman ) even though I had to shave 1/2 inch off each door due to the carpet. Not a bad job, if I say so myself. : )

I just need to put some handles on them.

Last night I grabbed some new closet doors for the kids rooms. We had those fold out doors on hinges. The top rail would keep expanding and the doors would pop out of them. I would then have to re-screw them back in. So, I called around to see what was out there and grabbed some sliding doors instead. I think the kids are excited because they are new. I need to get them on today.

We also went grocery shopping, yes again. This time we primarily bought organic. I was again surprised how much more was out there.

Among some items, were organic ketchup, mustard, sugar, rice, pasta, mac and cheese, and coffee ( yeah coffee! ).

I also had our monthly School Board meeting. It went better than expected, yet somewhat disappointing. That's all I am going to say on it.

Just another busy week as usual for this home. Last night all those activities. Tonight I have a cubscout meeting with our son, while Kel has basketball practice with our daughter (our son will miss the basketball practice). Tomorrow night is church with Teamkids. Thursday morning we have the appraisal coming over. Thursday night I think we are actually free for the evening. Kel takes the kids to skating Friday and Basketball games Saturday. On top of this, regular work, part time work on the weekend and I am on-call this week. Oh well. Such is life.

I thought this was well written. Source

Dems Will Disappoint The Left
By Doug Patton
January 8, 2007

Fans of the 1980s sitcom, "Family Ties," will recall the characters of Steven and Elise Keaton, liberal former sixties activists raising their three children, including son Alex, whose "rebellion" against his parents' liberalism manifested itself in staunch Reagan conservatism.

In one particularly poignant episode, Elise and Steven, who have settled into an idealistic but decidedly middle-class lifestyle, reconnect with a radical former comrade from their college days. Their old friend has not changed a bit, and when he proposes starting an "underground" newspaper like the one on which they worked together in college, Steven, desiring to relive their glory days, readily agrees. However, when he submits to his friend an article about the Democrats' chances of recapturing the White House in 1984, he is scorned for having "sold out" to the establishment. The friend protests that Steven no longer is calling for the destruction of the entire political system.

"You sound like a member of the PTA," the friend observes, to which Steven Keaton sheepishly replies: "I am a member of the PTA."

I thought of that episode when I saw antiwar protester Cindy Sheehan disrupting the press conference of U.S. Rep. Rahm Emanuel, D-Ill, chairman of the House Democratic caucus and one of the chief architects of the Democrat takeover of Congress. Emanuel was outlining his party's plans for lobbying reform, but Sheehan and her followers had only one thing on their minds as they chanted, "De-escalate, investigate, troops home now!" Unfortunately for the Democrats, a whole lot of those people comprise the activists of their party.

Cindy Sheehan and her activist followers are likely to be terribly disappointed by the leadership of the 110th Congress. There will be individual members, particularly in the House, who will try to fulfill the heart's desire of the deeply liberal base of the Democratic Party, but the leadership knows better than to try to do everything at once. And that won't be enough for the Cindy Sheehans of the world.

In fact, they may find themselves even more frustrated with the new crop of Dems than many conservatives were with the last twelve years of Republican rule. Cindy and her friends are about to be kicked to the curb by the Democrats in much the same way that many GOP leaders abandoned those of us who expected great things from them, beginning back in 1994. Just as passionate pro-lifers, believers in traditional marriage and advocates of enforcing America's immigration laws became disenchanted with many Republican leaders, the base of the Democratic Party is about to become very frustrated with those they have just voted into power.

Perhaps this is inevitable, and we will always be frustrated with the people we elect to represent us, since political survival in Washington, DC, is by compromise with those who don't share ones views, and political survival usually trumps statesmanship.

Congressional Democrats, like the Republicans before them, will no doubt be more interested in holding power than in blazing new trails, and the conventional wisdom in Washington is that holding power means compromise.

As for me, I would prefer that political parties be defined not by the compromise that taints the deliberations of their practitioners, but rather by the ideology that sets them apart from each other.

Give me the ideas of committed citizens who gather voluntarily at county, state and national conventions every four years to hammer out platforms that stand for something.

Give me the passion of the hotheaded liberal and the firebrand conservative, doing battle in the political arena, following the dictates of their respective consciences, over the milquetoast and pabulum of today's compromisers and betrayers of those who sent them to office.

Then Cindy Sheehan and I would both have representation.

----------

Doug Patton is a freelance columnist who has served as a political speechwriter and public policy advisor. His weekly columns are published in newspapers across the country and on selected Internet web sites, including Human Events Online, TheConservativeVoice.com and GOPUSA.com, where he is a senior writer and state editor. Readers may e-mail him at dougpatton@cox.net.

I had a pretty good day as a Pepsi worker today. We were busy enough to be steady, but not crazy busy. Another guy commented this as well. So evidently, most had a steady but not crazy day.

My diet continues to do well for day 5.

During my day at Walmart, I couldn't help but check out to see if they had any more organic foods out there. To my surprise I am seeing more and more of them. There is suppose to be a big Organic Food store up in Fayetteville. Kel and I will be checking it out as soon as possible. She is needing a Target fix anyway. (smile)

I surprised Kel with a basket of bathing stuff today. I told the kids she was off limits and kept them in the living room with me. We watched the third "Liberty Kids" dvd together. I wish there were more of them. I seen where another dad commented on a forum, he wished one would be made for the Civil War. I agree.

I am drinking my tea (nearly 9 p.m.) and about to watch at least one episode of Highlander before heading into bed.

I am glad it's Friday. It wasn't too bad today. I enjoyed some time with the kids and their home school. I didn't see the wife all day today. She left around 6 a.m and returned for 10 minutes around 4:30 p.m

The kids are also at their Nana and Papa's tonight. I have the house to myself for awhile. I am enjoying watching one of my Christmas gifts, The Highlander series.

The kids and I watched a cool show today. I will have to acquire more of them. It's called "The Liberty Kids" and it's about the time of the Colonies. We watched the Boston Tea party and Give me Liberty. I had to pull out one of my books showing the kids pictures of the Tea party and the Boston Massacre. It makes it easier to discuss some history when they actually find a interest in it. I think these shows are great for it. Kel had scored them for a buck a piece. Yes, on dvd. Needless to say, we will be looking for more of them.

I am doing good on my diet. You can read about it here. I am past day 4. I still haven't killed anyone. Quite the contrary. The kids even said, I was less grumpy. LOL

I just couldn't get into work today. Don't get me wrong, I worked. I just didn't feel like it today.

The kids and I went to Team Kids at Church tonight and had a blast. The theme was "your body is your temple" and you should eat healthy. Gee, more encouragement. ( smile )

I hope to get some stuff done tomorrow. I will pick up the check for Pepsi. I am hoping it will be a good one, considering it's 30 hours plus a holiday. I guess we will see.

I also will need to travel to Corporate the week of the 22nd, this month. At least it will not conflict with next Monday's board meeting and next Tuesday's cub scout meeting. Always something.

Back to the drawing board. It will be tough to get back into the swing of things now the Holidays are officially over. We have basketball practice tonight and Thursday night, sigh. Church is Wednesday night. Kel and the kids will be out of the house Friday night. Yeah, it was nice to have everyone together for awhile.

I worked 30 hours over the weekend for Pepsi. The check should be good this week, but I am sure stiff this morning.

I truly hope everyone has a safe New Year. I am off my main job, but I will be working for Pepsi tomorrow. Today with Pepsi it was busy, but not absolutely crazy. I am still amazed how much soda goes through the stores each day.

This morning, before 8 a.m. two guys were discussing which soda to use for mixed drinks. I guess they will bring in the New Year with a hangover. I am surprised how many actually plan for it. I heard 3 different individuals conveying as such. Not for me. I can do without the mental lapse and hangover.

Kel refilled the fridge and cabinets today with the grub. This time around, she grabbed only the healthy stuff. Starting on the second, I will be going on a detox diet. It will last 3 weeks. The major concern, is No Coffee! You can read my daily experience here. I will post my expectations and the reality of it. (Smile)

The family talked last night. We call them family meetings where we basically discuss what we are doing the following week, or if there is a decision to be made (make the kids part of it).

Last night we had a family meeting to discuss Friday. As we were discussing it dawned on me, this is the last weekend of the year. ( yeah, I know, duh)

I really didn't realize it was already here. So, I guess the New Year resolutions will start next Tuesday.

Christmas is over and in some way, I am glad. I like it, but it's also nice to get the house back in shape. Today, we cleaned house, and took all the Christmas stuff down. I was actually off today, making a 3 day weekend for me (had to work Saturday). I enjoyed being with the family.

We don't have the house tip-top yet, but the buisiness picking up the trash tomorrow will dread seeing our haul. There is a pile and a half of trash bags to haul off. Having my family over one evening and Kel's the other makes for a lot of wrapping paper and boxes.

We also hit the Christmas after sales today. We primarily go for the after shave, bath stuff, ect. We happen to hit Sears on a whim. While Kel looked around for any clothes on clearance, the daughter and I was checking out the exercise stuff. There was a treadmill just sitting there. A motor one, not a manual one. The manual one was priced for 100 bucks. This one didn't have a mark on it. On a whim, we asked. We pulled it over to have them scan it. Believe it or not, it scanned for 120 bucks. It must had been a mistake. Alas, mistake or not, I grabbed it. So a nice Christmas present to Kel. I spent a good hour putting it together While I was putting it together, Kel checked the net for the machine. It was priced 279 dollars at the lowest. Yes, a true find! So now we just need to use it. (smile)

It's back to work tomorrow, but at least it makes for a short week.

"I heard something." The cold hand moved away from mine as I jumped in my skin. " I heard something" was the statement again. It wasn't my wife. It wasn't even 2 a.m. yet.

My daughter stood over me with wideness in her eyes. I still had grit in mine. She heard something and thought it must be Santa. My wife and I tried to suggest we lay here in bed another 30 minutes. Both kids crawled in and there was no going back to sleep.

We came to find Santa had indeed arrived, leaving crumbs and a empty glass behind. We allowed them to open the bags. 30 minutes after that, with a cup of coffee in hand, we then proceeded to give them their gifts from us. The kids had a blast.

Kel crashed around 4 a.m. back to bed. I crashed on the couch as the kids continued to check out their loot. Later I tried Star Wars Lego 2 with them and the Guitar Hero. My fingers are already tired. LOL At least the Guitar Hero has songs from the 80's. (smile)

The living room looks like a explosion of toys.

Merry Christmas everyone.

I woke up around 2:30 a.m local time. I was troubled with the issues regarding my family. Not my immediate wonderful wife and kids, rather my family. In the beginning of the year, I had a foreboding feeling change was upon us. I mentioned it to Kel without realizing just how significant that change would be. Nearly the end of the year now and so much have been changed within our home and hearts.

I am having that foreboding feeling once again. I awoke with arguments still in my mind. This Christmas with my family will become a changing one. Not so much as a dreaded altercation, rather a past due discussion. I will not enlighten my readers on the issues, per se. However, I feel diplomacy has come to an end.

4 days till Christmas and 3 for the Eve. Unbelievable. I hope everyone has their stuff bought, ect. I spoke with a lady last night at church and she still plans to buy Christmas cards. Wow, I thought 'forget it' to myself at this point.

I looked all over our little area ( Fort Smith, Arkansas - Poteau, Oklahoma )to no avail for an item. I was kindof shocked not to find at least one. Crud, when I called a particular store, the lady actually said "oh, we get alot of calls for those, but we don't carry it". WTF? So we have a demand for it, but no suppliers. Welcome to the logic of my neck of the woods.

So here comes the internet to the rescue, yet again. I had found it online, called the store the following morning, requested it shipped out, and it came in last night. I had to sign for the thing to prove I acquired it. So, last night I rested easy, knowing Kel had another item under the tree. (smile)

Personally, I enjoy acquiring the gifts for the kids and Kel. It's the one time of the year, I actually buy something without feeling guilty. I never had much when I was a kid, and it makes me feel good to be able to provide those things to my family and others. Call it a selfish act on my part ( in some way ).

If I don't get around to blogging again, I wish my fellow bloggers and readers a wonderful Christmas and my joy, blessings follow you to the New Year.

Christmas = Christ should be first.

"I appreciate you working so hard." There were the words I heard at 5 a.m. this morning. These words were spoken by my wife as I rolled out of bed to my part-time Pepsi job. I work full time during the week on the primary job, and 20 hours on the weekend for the part-time. I don't mind really. Except some mornings are a bit harder to get out of bed than others, like this morning.

I was thinking about this today. I have a great wife who is supportive, trusting, great mother, and a true friend.

I am reminded of Proverbs chapter 31 verse 10; "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."

I feel my wife is my deepest treasure on this earth. I honestly do. I look at these other marriages (they mainly keep together for some other reason than love) and it's a continued reminder of how good I have it.

We have differences and we have arguments, but in the end, we still love each other. And somehow manage to go to bed together. (smile)

In reality, every time I go to work on the weekends, she works just as hard with the kids and house. So when she tells me again "I appreciate you working so hard." I will have to reconvey to her "I appreciate her work just as well."

I have to tell you this one. Dealing with interfaces, we pretty much move data around. Getting the data, massaging the data, and moving the data from point A to point B in the correct format.

Today, I had a facility reset their FTP connection, because it just wasn't happening. Once it was reset, boom, access and I was able to get the files and send them on their merry way.

Having to look on the server for those files (manually and to verify I have access), I happen to note a folder named "Pearl Jam". Hmm, that's a rock group. ( I always liked 'Rooster' ). I happen to check in the folder and to my surprise, 4 CD labels with files in mp4 formats. Ahh songs on the server.

I had to ask.

I asked the tech, via instant message, if he had a honeypot on the server. ( To explain, a honeypot is a tempting file for a hacker or someone lurking on a server. Once the trespasser attempts to pull the file, a log is kept and the lurkers IP is captured )

He didn't know what I was talking about, so I asked about the 'songs'. He promptly told me "it was put there for a co-worker of mine, who will remain nameless".

Needless to say, in about 3 minutes the files were gone.

Another week is simply flying by.

I had received my new laptop from work last week. As of yesterday, I have all my info and programs transferred over. So, my Christmas came early. (smile)

I will be sending the old one back, probably today.

I made some additional edits on my Get Rid of Toxins website. I placed a feedback form on it. I also created another article and submitted it to Hello Healthy. I guess we will see if it's accepted. I wrote about the increase in organic foods being availible in the market.

Work is still going like crazy. I'm trying to get some projects done prior to end year.

The family is doing well in health. Just crazy to get everything done.

Now I heard everything, almost.

BERLIN (Reuters) - German sex educators plan to launch a spray-on condom tailor-made for all sizes.

Jan Vinzenz Krause from the Institute for Condom Consultancy, a Singen-based practice that offers advice on condom use, told Reuters on Thursday the product aimed to help people enjoy better and safer sex lives.

"We're trying to develop the perfect condom for men that's suited to every size of penis," he said. "We're very serious."

Krause's team (spraykondom.de) is developing a type of spray can into which the man inserts his penis first. At the push of a button it is then coated in a rubber condom.

"It works by spraying on latex from nozzles on all sides," he said. "We call it the '360 degree procedure' -- once round and from top to bottom. It's a bit like a car wash."

Krause said the plan is to make the product ready for use in about five seconds. He said it would function more effectively as a contraceptive because it would fit better and not slip.

However, before the new condom can be sold in shops, the firm must ensure that the latex is evenly spread when sprayed, as well as optimise the vulcanization process.

Krause hopes the high tech condom, which will be available in different strengths and colours, will on the market by 2008.

He said the spray can would likely cost some 20 euros ($26) as a one-off purchase. The latex cartridges -- sufficient for up to 20 applications -- would cost roughly 10 euros, he said.

Krause said he had hit upon the idea when considering the difficulties some people faced using condoms, and drew inspiration from spray-on plasters now used in medicine

I am beat today. Pepsi was busy today. The day went quick though.

Last night was pretty cool. We drove to Muskogee to check out the Garden of Lights and the castle. There were tons of those blowup yard christmas things. I am not sure what they are called.

I have found all the ingredients of the Lemonade diet. I noticed the lemons at Walmart were 44 cents each! Un-freaking real. I will be waiting till they go on sale. I really cannot do it till after the holidays anyway. However, I was surprised to find the sea salt and pure cayenne pepper.

I have been busy on my Get Rid of Toxins website. I have added additional pages and created some video's to show the products.

I also created an article that was posted on Hello Healthy. You can check my article here if you want too.

I was scheduled off today and tomorrow. However, I seemed to have worked enough today that it didn't feel like I was off. I am looking forward to being off tomorrow.

We drove around tonight looking at the outside Christmas lights after basketball practice. A local church also had a drivethrough that was really cool. They do it every year and this makes the second one we went too. Tomorrow night we plan to drive to Muskogee to a castle. It suppose to have alot of lights, ect. as well.

The product is the compact fluorescent lightbulb, a quirky-looking twist of frosted glass. In the energy business, it is called a "CFL," or an "energy saver." One scientist calls it an "ice-cream-cone spiral," because in its most-advanced, most-appealing version, it looks like nothing so much as a cone of swirled soft-serve ice cream.

Check out this little fact on them.

One thing hasn't changed: the energy savings. Compact fluorescents emit the same light as classic incandescents but use 75% or 80% less electricity.

What that means is that if every one of 110 million American households bought just one ice-cream-cone bulb, took it home, and screwed it in the place of an ordinary 60-watt bulb, the energy saved would be enough to power a city of 1.5 million people. One bulb swapped out, enough electricity saved to power all the homes in Delaware and Rhode Island. In terms of oil not burned, or greenhouse gases not exhausted into the atmosphere, one bulb is equivalent to taking 1.3 million cars off the roads.

How it works.

A "normal light bulb" is also known as an incandescent light bulb. These bulbs have a very thin tungsten filament that is housed inside a glass sphere. They typically come in sizes like "60 watt," "75 watt," "100 watt" and so on.

The basic idea behind these bulbs is simple. Electricity runs through the filament. Because the filament is so thin, it offers a good bit of resistance to the electricity, and this resistance turns electrical energy into heat. The heat is enough to make the filament white hot, and the "white" part is light. The filament glows because of the heat -- it incandesces.

The problem with incandescent light bulbs is that the heat wastes a lot of electricity. Heat is not light, and the purpose of the light bulb is light, so all of the energy spent creating heat is a waste. Incandescent bulbs are therefore very inefficient. They produce perhaps 15 lumens per watt of input power.

A fluorescent bulb uses a completely different method to produce light. There are electrodes at both ends of a fluorescent tube, and a gas containing argon and mercury vapor is inside the tube. A stream of electrons flows through the gas from one electrode to the other (in a manner similar to the stream of electrons in a cathode ray tube). These electrons bump into the mercury atoms and excite them. As the mercury atoms move from the excited state back to the unexcited state, they give off ultraviolet photons.

The thing I find fascinating is on each package you see the output (60, 75, 100 watt). The amount of electricity for the regular bulb output is more than these new fluorescent bulbs. This is the main thing that sold me. Plus the bulbs last either 5 or years, dependant on what you buy.

Currently we changed out our office, living room and kitchen. Kel noticed the 60 watt bulbs having a yellow hue to them (I didn't notice). The 100 watts are Kel's favorite. We have them placed in the living room. I have 75 watts in the kitchen and office. Just be sure not to look straight at them. They are bright!

It was a nice weekend. We traveled to Hooker, Oklahoma to visit some of Kel's family. We made it rhrough Tulsa even though the "blizzard" went through Oklahoma the night before. Once we passed I-35, it was clear all the way.

Just the fact of having a sit down and nice talk with the family was nice. No stress. No 'have too' todo's. Yeah, it was nice. We played some spades and a horse racing game.

We made it back home today before 6 p.m. I told the kids, I had a movie for us to watch. I pulled out our 2001 Christmas video of the family Christmas. It was wild to see the kids so young. LOL

Check this out.

Highlights:

The court finds that 1) the appeals are not moot; 2) San Diegans for the Mount Soledad War Memorial and Mike Shelby are aggrieved parties for the purposes of the appeal; and 3) the transfer of the cross under Proposition A does not in itself violate the First Amendment establishment clause or the California Constitution…and the attorney's fees award has been reversed!

Full story found in this link,

http://stoptheaclu.com/archives/2006/11/30/great-mt-soledad-news/

This is actually my Friday. I am scheduled off tomorrow and the next day. I asked Kel if there was anything preventing us for sleeping in tomorrow (8 a.m would be a good sleep-in).

There are alot of stuff needing done today. The normal cleanup around the house, catchup on some work stuff, get the kids classes going, plus some extra class time since we are traveling Friday.

The kids have a choir thing on Thursday night where they will sing about 7 songs. Unfortunately, we simply didn't have much time to take them with the Texas trip ect. Even though I jotted down the notes and the songs to look them up for the words, I really don't see how they can memorize them all in such a short time.

The kids had basketball practice last night. I was reminded of it, that same evening. Sigh. Kel and Britt didn't even make it to the house. I met them with basketball shoes at the school. This is another one of those activities, I don't think we really have the time for.

We are traveling to Hooker, Oklahoma on Friday. Yes, it's a real location. We are meeting Kel's family up there for this years Christmas get together. We were going to have the kids create some gifts this year, but another one that we are running out of time for. Kel is going to pick the material up today on her way back home (she left before 6:30 a.m. local time this morning for work).

I need to accomplish some task before day end on my job as well. Being around the holidays, many are out on vacation and it's hard to get all the necessary parties involved.

So much to do, so little time to do them all in.

It's been awhile since I blogged. I better provide an update to my 5 readers. (smile)

Basically, we arrived home last Tuesday. Kel snagged a virus on the way home. She was pretty sick the better part of last week up to Sunday.

Our daughter got ahold of it late Saturday night. But it seems hers lasted 24 hours only, fortunately.

I worked for Pepsi for about 5 hours on Thanksgiving. I only had to babysit Walmart, and it was pretty much dead. For the most part, there were more Walmart employees than customers.

Friday morning we braved and survived the Black Friday sales. I took the kids with me, since Kel was grabbing the kids Christmas specials.

The kids and I hit only two places. All four of us were back home by 7 a.m. local time. The kids and I hit Walmart first then Best Buy. We were through the lines 26 minutes flat at Walmart. It was a first time record. Best Buy was a madhouse. We were in lines for an hour(the short line at that).

All in all, there really wasnt that many sales out this year, in my opinion. Nothing jumped out to us as a really good deal.

I worked my part time this weekend as well. Saturday, Kmart had a sale on 12 packs, 5 for $10. I was pulling 12 packs all day. More than once, I had simply transferred the soda from my cart to the customers shopping cart. Sunday wasn't as bad, since the ad was only for one day.

Monday- What can I say? It was Monday. Kel and our girl went to a Cheetah girl concert in Tulsa. That left the boy and I bach-ing it alone in the home. After speech we grabbed a cheese pizza on the way home. We played PS2 Lego Star Wars and then crashed watching Xiolin Showdown. I had a good time with him.

We made it home today, Tuesday. We drove all day, but we made it home around 3:30 p.m.
Kel had me up around 4:20 a.m. So I had 20 minutes more than expected. (smile)

None-the-less, we are home and looking forward to our own beds.

Unfortunately, after we had stopped at a Cracker Barrel and ate some breakfast, Kel got sick. We had to pull over 3 times on the way home. Not sure if it's due to the food. She is in bed and still pretty sick to her stomach. Probably, caught a bug.

We are leaving tomorrow morning. Yes, finally going home. We will leave when Kel gets up tomorrow. So, it will probably be 4 a.m.

My week with the family has gone quickly. We should receive confirmation tomorrow if/that we get to leave Tuesday. I will probably take another day off work to get us home. At least as early as a 10 hour drive can. I have enjoyed staying with Kel's Aunt and Uncle. I find it interesting, they have certain tv shows they watch each night. Many of which I never have seen. So we were introduced to some shows we would never had seen.

Kel received an email from the Doc's office stating his white blood cell count had increased. She is concerned we may have to stay longer, but I have faith we shall be heading home Tuesday.

I made it to Texas with no issues. It actually worked out really well.

The School Board meeting was better than I expected. No patron participation to drag on. That's all I can really say. We left at 10:30 p.m., which is the latest I have ever attended. However, it was well worth it.

I kept waking up all last night. I guess the anticipation of getting to my family. I was able to get sleep a little after midnight, but I woke up around 2 a.m. I then woke up around 3:30 a.m. and finally just arose around 4. I finished the last bit of packing (throwing my P.C., wireless router, ect in ) and headed out.

This was the first time I tried Southwest Airlines and was a bit impressed. There were no 'assigned seats' so you simply chose where you wanted. The plane wasn't loaded at all and I had an row to myself.

It's nice to be with the kids and Kel. Looks like I will be camped out here with them for some time. How much, is yet to be determined.

This is a must read for all.

Please click here regarding Dem's plan.

After tomorrow,I will be heading to Texas myself. I am looking forward to seeing Kel and the kids.

I was tired today. I had one of those days where I simply 'felt it'. I was ready for my shift to be done. I wasn't the only one. The Coke guy said he was tired too. He looked tired. Evidently I look like crap anyway. Last Friday, a friend of Kel's seen me and informed her, I looked tired and pale. Gee thanks. Oh well, the weekend is over.

I am glad to hear our son is doing good. It helps with the stress. I have the school meeting tomorrow. I am already stressing on it. I know logically, it's just a meeting. I have had 1000 of them. I just hope it goes well. I have to remind myself, as stressed as I am, the other members are as well.

I was going to pack tonight. But, it's not going to happen. I arrived home nearly 6 p.m. After a shower, clothes washing and eating, I pretty much melted.

I am currently watching a fascinating show entitled C.I.A. Secrets-Passing Secrets.

I will probably be hitting the bed before 9 tonight.

My week alone at the house went way to fast. It is already Saturday morning and I haven't accomplished nearly all I wanted to.

I did get some things done, like I wanted. But again, not all. I am about to go into Pepsi for my 10 hour day. It will also go quick.

I had my school board depositions yesterday. I will have today and tomorrow with Pepsi. Monday's work, school board that night and I leave early Tuesday morning to meet up with Kel and the kids. I have to admit the house is awful quite without them.

I know these next 3 days will fly even faster and then I will be with the family again. I will drive up to Tulsa and take the flight from there to Texas.

I have to personally thank God for some blessings He has already provided.

1) The good news of Bradens 90 percent chance this will truly remedy the issue.
2) Not really knowing how to handle the co-pay, a friend has provided the means
3) Out of the blue, I assisted one of Kel's employers secetary with her computer and the lawyer actually paid me the price of the Airplane fare to Texas.

I didn't expect any of this to occur, but God does have a funny way to provide the means. Even if the means is going to one such as undeserving as myself. With that, I will simply say, His grace and love shall always overshadow me.

I wanted to share these links.

Here is a 73 minute YouTube video entitled "23 minutes of Hell

23 minutes of Hell

Within the above video, he mentions Mary K Baxter. I looked up her webpage and she also has a means for you to download her story regarding Hell. It is in MP3 format.

Her webpage is found here.

I haven't listened to Mary Baxter's story yet. I am downloading it tonight.

One more YouTube video I found to be really good. It's less than a minute long.

This one is entitled Rapture are you ready?

I am having a hard time sleeping tonight. We received word yesterday morning on our sons results. In addition, the school board is coming up pretty quick.

Interesting, Kel and the kids left Sunday morning and technically as of Tuesday, they were gone less than 3 days. Yet, I miss them like crazy. I wanted to talk to the kids yesterday evening, but by the time I could, they were already in bed. Perhaps I can hear them today.

It's currently 3 a.m. local time. I have another 4 scheduled conference calls today. In addition, I need to run to the local town (about 15 minutes away) to work on someones P.C. This week has flown.

Last night I cooked myself Oyster stew. I was able to, since the wife and kids were not here. They can't even stand the smell of it. LOL

Today will be election day for the United States. Across the Nation the people will have their one chance to voice their opinions regarding who will or will not be held in office. A lot of people around here watch the football games with fever. I will actually be watching the news tonight to see what occurs.

Oklahoma will have the following on their ballot. Personally, I will be voting on both sides of the fence, both Democrat and Republican. As a registered Independent, this is the only one (other than the main Presidential votes) that I will be able to attend at the polls.

Governor
Brad Henry (D)
Ernest Istook (R)

Lietutenant Governor
Jari Askins (D)
Todd Hiett ( R)
E.Z. Million (I)

State Auditor
Jeff A. McMahan (D)
Gary Jones ( R)

State Treasurer
Scott Meacham (D)
Howard Barnett (R )

Superintendent of Public Instruction
Sandy Garrett (D)
Bill Crozierr (R)

Commisioner of Labor
Lloyd L Fields (D)
Brenda Reneau (R )

Insurance Commissioner
Kim Holland (D)
Bill Case (R )

Corporation Commissioner
Cody Graves (D)
Bob Anthony (R )

District 2
Dan Boren (D )
Patrick K Miller (R )

District Judge Office one
Danita S. Williams
Mariaon Daly Fry

State Senator No 4
Kenneth Corn (D )
Thomas E. Lannigain (R )

There are also 4 state questions and one proposition.
The proposition asks if a 50 cent tax can be placed on cell phone usage. I don’t see that passing.

These and 12 Judges up for election should make for more than a few to come out to vote in Oklahoma.

Kel called yesterday around 12:30 p.m. to let me know they made it to their aunts house safely. I was glad to hear it. In addition they went onto the hotel near the hospital around 7 p.m.

Now I wait with anticipation to hear the results of our son's procedure.

I know I will begin cleaning the house today as I work. I have free reign all this week and plan to utilize it to its fullest extent. Primarily, I will hit a room individually and do a thorough cleaning.

Yesterday evening, I took my dad over to Hastings. He wanted to look for a game. In my surprise I found the movie Target. I grabbed it for 11 bucks. I have been looking for it the past 3 months. Blockbuster nor the other rentals in my area hadn't even carried it to rent. So, I watched it last night. Great, great movie.

I should also have my evaluation from my primary job today as well. I have been waiting since July for it.

2 a.m. and both Kel and I are awake. She stayed in bed till 3 a.m. and was ready to go.
I filled the car with gas while she checked her email on my P.C.

The kids were awaken at 3:30 a.m. and all three are already headed out. I feel anxious and worried already.

We said a prayer before they left. Kel feels like this will be the last trip, where resolution will be found. She also feels it will not go as we expect it too. But then again, we find ourselves in a new world of alternative medicine and homeschooling. Something, I would never have dreamed of.

It has come upon this dad one of the fears of having a daughter. I shall explain.
Here is the conversation of my now (gulp) 9 year old daughter today.

daughter: Dad, I need to call my friend Rachel.

me: (on a conference call with mute) What? Rachel who?

daughter: My friend Rachel. She may have heard from Allie and Allie may not have my number.

me: Uh. I think your a bit young to be calling.

daughter: Dad. Allie had to have some blood work and I am really nervous about it. Rachel is my first homeschool friend and she is 11. Can I please call her?

me: (looking into this sincere 9 year old eyes. Man, she seemed to be a teen already).

I made the call. Explained to the mom on the other end and she allowed her daughter to speak to mine. I was still on the conference call and only heard a bit of the conversation. Basically it was, "have you heard from Allie" and my girl giving this other 'friend' our home number. Oh man, it's already begun.

Later this evening as we are leaving for church, she is looking in the hallway mirror and asked out loud..."Is that a zit? My first zit."

I looked in astonishment and it did look like a zit. Geez, shouldn't she be like 13?

Oh man, I am feeling old.