Evoy & Evoy

Lovingston Parade

2010-07-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

We participated in our local parade and had lots of fun. Here are some links to local news stories:

http://www.wset.com/news/stories/0710/752499.html

http://www.nelsoncountylife.com/2010/07/05/lovingston-4th-of-july-parade-7-5-10

Enjoy the video.

Drill Baby Drill or Top Kill

2010-05-27T03:45:00.000-07:00

I've resisted writing about the oil spill, unsure that I have something new to say about this environmental catastrophy that hasn't already been said. The clean up is well underway, with engineers using a method called "top kill" to pump mud into the blowout preventer and then will cap the well with cement.

Questions are being asked about how this could happen, how to prevent it from happening in the future and why haven't methods for cleaning up a spill been much improved since the last time this happened.

I wonder if those who wanted to drill more in new areas off the coast of the US still want to do that. What other things can we do to lessen our need on foreign oil?

1) Ride our bikes more. I know this isn't realistic for some but cities and Washington DC in particular have excellent bike trails away from car traffic and are creating more bike lanes on roads. I know several people who bike to work

2) Drive differently. I have a friend in Portland Ore who has never owned a car until recently. She bought an older diesel car and refashioned it to accept french fry oil to run her heap. Awesome! Except that makes her dependent on the french-fry loving community to keep eating and eating

3) Buy locally. This one is easy for some products. Think about buying your fruits and veggies at a local farmer's market instead of your supermarket who depends on trucks to deliver produce. Check out Local Harvest to find local food near you.

Baby steps...

Satire, Protest, or Just Bad Grammar?

2010-05-26T17:10:00.001-07:00

The Power of Myth

2010-05-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

During my pregnancy and early days with my daughter, I read a lot of articles and parenting books. One of the issues addressed was the ADHD and how it has been connected to vaccines. I never liked the idea of multiple vaccines given during a single visit but reasoned that I have to weigh the benefit with the potential harms of giving the vaccine.

The only quasi-evidence about the problems caused by vaccines involved a small percentage of children who also have been identified as having mitochondrial disease. Some of those children have been having health problems after vaccines. It's very distressing and I feel horrible for the parents of those children.

However, in weighing the societal harm of delaying or choosing not to vaccinate, I had to think about the children who would also be protected, by what's called herd immunity, by immunizing my child for all the recommended shots.

So it was interesting/scary to see in the news this week that one of the doctors who insisted that there's a direct correlation between vaccines and ADHD, barred from practicing medicine this week.

I don't want to base my decisions about how to care for my child based on one article, one study, or even a single doctor's advice, and this serious misuse of power is frightening.

I wonder how many people were influenced by a single article, study or interview conducted by this physician, who have made decions that not only affect their children's health but the potential health of infants and elderly who have budding or weak immune systems.

Cape May is Pretty...

2010-04-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

But don't take my word for it. This town where Laurie and I grew up (ok, we actually grew up on the other side of the tracks and the bridge) is the place we call home, and it's being recognized today by Yahoo travel. And one more thing, Cape May has been know for it's bird watching for as long as I can remember. And as a teenager, mocked. And yeah, now that I'm into birds will become the object of the mockery. That's Ok.

Panama: No map, no road signs, no problem!

2010-03-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

A break in heated political discourse to share a few pictures of something else very hot: Panama.

Two Evoy sisters and their families hit the open road to take in the Panama Canal, the rainforest during the dry season, the old city of Casco Viejo, and the beautiful beach town of Pedasi. It was a lovely week of touring, swimming, attempting to use our spanish language skills, and visiting with family, and the occasional political discussion. You know us so well readers, we love the sport!

Most memorable moments included trying to order food; we were quasi successful ordering a happy meal on the way to Pedasi, over-ordered fried rice at a chinese restaurant where staff only spoke spanish and I mistakenly ordered a steamed milk instead of frio leche for Indira. Hilarious moments included me falling while trying to walk out of the Gulf of Panama at Isla Iguana while wearing flippers. Kim will have additional moments to add, no doubt. Also we met a lovely French woman who owns an art shop in the heart of Pedasi where we supported the local economy with purchases of jewelry made of the tagua nut, t-shirt and a hammock. Most impressed moment: eating in an Italian restaurant run by a husband and wife team with no additional staff. Saddest moment; realizing much of the country is still a developing nation in need of much help.

MANY THANKS to Kim and Dave for letting us tag along on what was a real adventure and KUDOS to Dave and Jake for their navigation skills.

Attacking People, not Policies

2010-03-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

Some people watch sports, we talk politics. Both are blood sports. This particular chat started with a discussion about Dennis Miller, former left-leaning comedian-turned conservative political commentator on Fox News. Evidently the straw that broke the camel's back for Mr. Miller was during the last Bush Administration during which time George Bush was being compared with Hitler. That was enough to send Miller to the other side. OK, agreed, comparing anyone to Hitler is going too far.(Although in a clip I watched later, it was the 9/11 attacks that served as the catalyst for his career change.)

Recently I did a Google Images search to see how many websites have links to pictures and references to our current president also with the famous Hitler mustache. What gives? And what's the point exactly? They're genocidal? C'mon.

Tea Party participants had such Obama as Hitler signs and here too.

Miller perhaps was tired of the president bashing, tired of the hatred, but isn't that what TV network news is spewing most of the time? (And yes, our former President Bush was bashed all the time, and I also grew tired of that very quickly, especially when it was only personal and not at all about policies).

Take Glenn Beck using the word "hate" to describe how he feels about the 9/11 families. Hate! Victims of a terrorist attack. They're getting too much attention, according to Beck. "They're spoiling it for everybody," he said. What's useful about this? How Glenn Beck feels about the 9/11 families is his own opinion, but why would he share it with the world? Maybe he's got 9/11 fatigue but to use the word "hate" is beyond comprehension. How else could he have conveyed this? By saying that the news networks were covering this topic too frequently.

Ann Coulter was recently interviewed about the situation in Haiti and veered into Clinton-bashing land, saying sexually explicit things about our former president in a clip I won't show here rather than talk about his work in Haiti, or if she felt the need to criticize him, to discuss his policies. It's fine to criticize the actions and policies of the current and previous administrations. I encourage this freedom we have in a democratic country. But our opinions leaders have been so crass that it's OK to call our former leader a "horny hick" among other things. Is this someone you'd want to invite to a church to speak? She has standing invitations to speak at churches all over the country.

For those who watch another network, Keith Olbermann also goes over the top, in the other direction.

Finally, where's the funny? On Bill O'Reilly. Here's an interview with fake newsman Jon Stewart who calmly and intelligently gives his thoughts about how President Obama is doing. No fan-based flag-waving, but actual analysis and critique.

No Statesman in View

2010-03-01T11:41:00.000-08:00

This is what is wrong with politics in our countries, we have many politicians and we have few leaders. But we have no statesmen, which would require both skills and qualities. Mark Steyn brought it into perspective with his quote today:

While discussing the mid-term election, Steyn makes this observation:

Republicans will take over the committee chairmanships and be content, as they often are, to be in office rather than in power;

Being in office, rather than in power. And democrats are also guilty of the same folly. Sad, pathetic, waste of time, and hurtful to our nation every day. No one steering the ship, just keeping up with keeping their job. Thoughts?

The Gift of Time

2009-12-21T16:51:00.000-08:00

Time is such a gift, although we rarely see it that way. We tend to wish it away, or wish we had more. This weekend we had a snow storm that kept us homebound and without electricity for more than a day. Our family did get on each other's nerves a little bit, but we also played games, laughed and slept in the den by the fire to keep warm.

I have a chair in my room that one year ago I sat in, visiting my Aunt Jane, in her nursing home room. One week before that Christmas, God gave me the gift of time, to visit with my aunt in those last days. We had time to tell stories, to laugh and to let Aunt Jane know how much she was loved. Aunt Jane died on New Year's Eve, a little more than a week after I saw her. I wouldn't have had that opportunity if it had not been for a thoughtful nurse that called me, realizing that my aunt's time was short.

So today I give thanks for the gift of time that I had with my family this weekend. We had 2 feet of snow and no electricity, but it really was a gift; a blessing. Again, my Christmas wish has come true, and early. May you all have the gift of time with your family this Christmas.

Happy Anniversary, Gone with the Wind

2009-12-15T16:24:00.000-08:00

When Kim was little (I'll let her fill in the details, as I didn't exist yet) our mom and aunt Marty took her to see Gone with the Wind in the movie theater. It was quite the experience and she wanted to share that with her family.

Fast forward a number of years, and Kim and I took Jocelyn who, at the time, was about the same age Kim was when she first saw it, to see the same movie at the Byrd Theater in Richmond.

It was a real big-screen movie to see, and my first viewing. After getting situated (and almost getting in a fight with two men who grumbled that we were in their line of sight) we ate popcorn, drank giant sodas and introduced the next generation to a movie classic.

Maam, You're Biting My Finger

2009-12-10T15:24:00.000-08:00

During times of stress, I don't recommend doing things that add to your level of anxiety, like getting your teeth cleaned. I visited a new dentist this morning, one who offers gentle sedation. I should have been gently sedated perhaps but then who would have driven me back to work? Work. I am 85% done with a book project for work, one with many authors. I serve as the editorial traffic cop, not author, but this thing has my name on it. So I'm a bit tense about it's completion and perfection. So, I arrive at the new dentist a bit distracted. I give them my insurance card and fill out the paperwork.

Eventually I get called back for the cleaning, which I hate. Who enjoys that? My one friend who flosses every day. That's who. Not even half way through the scrape scrape scraping away, I hear the word "red Subaru" in the lobby and gargle out, "I think that's my car!" I was parked in a doctor's space (at a different practice) and he arrived to work to see my car there. I was asked to leave the chair, reminded to grab my coat, and then hustled down by the very nice building manager who parked me in another doctor's space.

I considered escaping, but reluctantly went back up to finish the dreaded cleaning and within a minute the very nice (and gentle!) hygienist says those awful words, "Maam, you're biting my finger." She didn't yelp or yell or even get mad. I felt terrible for two reasons. 1) It has nothing to do with her work, she was steller and had the dexterity of a concert pianist 2) There is a hygienist from my childhood I secretly wanted to bite, for hurting and berating me through every hated cleaning.

I have been to four dentists since moving to the area. Between moves and jobs and insurance change, I've switched up a few times, trying out new dentists the way people go on blind dates.
My last dentist said that I should have fillings replaced because I'm a woman of a certain age and am likely to be pregnant soon so I should have the dental work all out of the way. Huh? Does he know something that I don't? But, today I found a great one. Will they invite me back? I guess I'll find out in six months.

Jon Stewart Catches Sean Hannity Falsifying VideoTo Make GOP Protest Appear Bigger

2009-11-14T08:20:00.000-08:00

When there's a protest in Washington, DC, the numbers are usually inflated, no matter who is protesting, but this is way beyond an overestimation of people, it's a lie, not an inadvertent mistake. Why is this obvious? Because of the seasonal change you can see on the trees that goes from fall back to summer. Freaky!

Here's Hannity's apology

Time to Go to Work...

2009-11-04T06:08:00.000-08:00

It was a good win for republicans last night. I'm Ok with that. But I'm not celebrating just yet. Because there has to be more than a shift in voting.

In the last presidential election, it was really difficult to tell the difference between republicans and democrats. I credit my sister for pointing that out to me. What republicans used to stand for, they gave up in terms of moving to the center politically, socially and economically. They spent money beyond belief during their tenure and as a result, lost an election for lack of definition of what they stood for.

So, Virginia, you have the opportunity to do something about it. Governor Elect McDonnell, I hope that you are listening. Please get focused on the real purpose of government, which includes safety and security, the economy and infrastructure.

On safety and security, let's give the localities the resources that they need to fight crime. Drug related crime is not decreasing, it's increasing. Rural as well as urban areas need people and resources to be able to fight and prevent crime. Give them what they need.

The economy needs jobs. In order to do that, businesses need tax reductions. Let's face it, government has never been a creator of private sector jobs. Isn't it time that Virginia had the leadership in place that is pro-business? What would happen if there were tax benefits for people to start new businesses (regardless of special interests) in order that jobs may be created? These tax cuts are way past due.

On infrastructure, VDOT needs a do-over. The roads need to be built or fixed, ice removal needs to occur during bad weather, and grass needs to be cut in the warmer seasons. None of this requires full-time employment. This can be accomplished with local contractors at a fraction of the cost, time and time to completion that it takes the state to do it. Put this in the hands of the people.

I'm glad that the republicans are returning to power in Virginia. I'll save my celebration when something is actually accomplished. Now it's time to get to work.

Sisterhood of the Traveling Palm Tree Jeans

2009-09-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

Sunday's WaPo had a great article about sisters written by Deborah Tannen, PhD, my go-to sociolinguist who has written extensively about the way people communicate. I have read her books about communication in the classroom, workplace, at home with married couples, between mothers and daughters, and her latest book is about...sisters. As the youngest sister in a trio of girls, she had two women to compete with and trade clothes with growing up. Although Kim and I grew up at different times, I did borrow a pair of her favorite jeans she left at home and when they fit me years later I wore them, and subsequently lost them. I'm not sure why today of all days I remembered that. And, um, sorry about that (15 years later).

Whether you are friends or rivals with your sister, or somewhere in between, it's a link and a bond that is universal among many women. People are surprised to learn that Kim and I are so close but I don't think it's that unusual. We skipped over the sibling rivalry and infighting that most kids experience who are close in age. So, lucky us!

Keep Politics Out Of the Classroom

2009-09-03T06:23:00.000-07:00

The president is scheduled to deliver a speech to all schoolchildren on September 8. The problem is that this is not a pep-rally, but an attempt to push a political agenda directly to our children. I read some of the comments yesterday that said conservatives should relax, that this message could not possibly be harmful. However, I wonder if you exchanged "President Obama" in the text for "President Bush" if there would be the same reaction. See what you think and whether or not our political agendas should stay out of the classroom. Here is the agenda:

Should the Government Determine Cybersecurity?

2009-08-28T08:53:00.001-07:00

Check out what some senators have been working on this summer:

S.773

Cybersecurity Act of 2009 (Introduced in Senate)

SEC. 18. CYBERSECURITY RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY.

The President--

(1) within 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, shall develop and implement a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy, which shall include--

(A) a long-term vision of the Nation's cybersecurity future; and

(B) a plan that encompasses all aspects of national security, including the participation of the private sector, including critical infrastructure operators and managers;

(2) may declare a cybersecurity emergency and order the limitation or shutdown of Internet traffic to and from any compromised Federal Government or United States critical infrastructure information system or network;

Is this something that we are willing to defer to the government? Is private industry doing a better or worse job at protecting data than the federal government? And what is the real reason the government wants Complete Control over the internet? It seems to me that in times of national crisis, the interet is one the best tools for distributing possibly life-saving information quickly.

Just something to think about, again, in terms of our freedom and choices. Read the article here.

Financial Info and Healthcare

2009-08-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

CBS has an interesting article today. It suggests that the IRS will be required to turn over all taxpayer information in order to determine healthcare credits. See the article here. Are they serious? I don't even like the IRS taking my financial information, let alone providing this openly to another organization, more people and using this to determine my healthcare credits. Keep your credits. If they want to help folks in need, there are other ways of finding this information. This is a privacy issue, or maybe privacy is something else that we are losing in this country. (See Section 245(b)(2)(A) of HR3200)

End-of-Life Care

2009-08-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

We're back to politics, folks.

Now I'm not going to pretend I fully understand all of the nuances of the health reform debate but I do know that a lot of misinformation is swirling around the internet and TV talk shows about part of the not-yet-final House bill.

One of the big issues is end-of-life care. It's very important that patients, together with their families and doctors talk frankly about their wishes at the end of life. Let's talk about cancer for example. If a patient has gotten to the point where treatment may do more harm than good because the late-stage cancer can no longer be considered curable or even treatable, there are many options for palliative care and hospice care. Patients can live out their last days in the comfort of their home, not a hospital, with hospice care professionals coming to their homes to take care of them, and allowing the family to be with the patient. But it is the responsibility of the doctor to tell the patient that the options for treatment have run out so that the patient isn't needlessly suffering. That's the first step.

The House Bill touches on this concept of discussing end of life care, not government-sponosored euthanasia as many talking heads have said. The president of a cancer organization spoke about this issue. This organization is comprised not of like-minded politicians but of a multifaceted group of doctors who face end of life issues as a part of their job.

Sunday's WaPo included an Q&A with Ezekiel Emanuel, MD, an oncologist and former NIH ethicist, now Obama's budget chief, who clarified some of the confusion around end of life issues.

In addition, I hope the debate will seriously address the issues facing people in the scenario that I just described, so that we can know for sure not only how health care will be doled out to people in the United States but also can we can pay for the treatment of serious diseases like cancer. This is an issue confronting many people who believed that they had excellent care until they were disagnosed with a life-threatening illness and then went bankrupt trying to obtain care.

Vacation's All We Ever Wanted

2009-08-09T05:05:00.001-07:00

Oh, an homage to the Go Go's is the only proper intro to a post about a beach vacation. I finally unpacked my clothes from the trip to the Outer Banks a few weeks ago, with a residual suntan and slightly more relaxed disposition at work as reminders of my trip.

Staying three houses down from the beach is the ideal place for families with kiddoes. Kim and I set up the tent most mornings and surprisingly I spent more time in the shade than I remembered from my beach days as a kid, a human Shake n Bake in the hot sun and sand.

We had great neighbors! The guy who looked like a motley motorcycle gang member was really nice and moved our chairs out of the water during high tide (the sun hid behind the clouds in the afternoon so we did some shopping). Note to self: low tide is followed by high tide. Noted.

What else? Flying kites, eating seafood and ice cream all made the trip seem like a perfect summer week. What else can you ask for? Another week!

Independent Dog

2009-06-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

July 4th is right around the corner, and I know that you want to be prepared. So here is a website with your patriotic costumes. They even have some for people. (I know that "Independent Dog" is a stretch for the title of this article. The costume was probably not his idea).

Democracy - continued...

2009-06-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

So the president held his press conference yesterday, and I am more concerned about the preservation of democracy now than I was before. Here is his statement:

"I strongly condemn these unjust actions, and I join with the American people in mourning each and every innocent life that is lost," he said. "But we must also bear witness to the courage and dignity of the Iranian people, and to a remarkable opening within Iranian society.

"This is not about the United States and the West. This is about the people of Iran, and the future that they, and only they, will choose," Obama said.

There are 2 major problems with his statement. First, condemning the actions of the government is not the same as saying that you support the oppressed. It is a step in the right direciton. Second, this problem is absolutely about the United States and the West. A truely democratic Iran will probably not cause us alarm when it comes to a nuclear attack. With Mahmoud Ahmadinejad remaining in power, a nuclear attack on Israel and anyone else that he can reach is a real threat. He is a holocaust denier that believes that Israel should be wiped off the map and has threatened to do so. So yes, he needs to be removed and in an honest democratic process.

One more thing to chew on, if our president is not strongly supporting democracy in Iran, it calls into question his belief in the democratic process. Has anyone seen evidence that our president wants to preserve democracy in our country?

In Defense of Democracy

2009-06-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

I take the democracy of the U.S. very seriously. Many will argue that it is not a perfect system of government, but it is by far the best I have seen. In my 40+ years, I have come to appreciate the freedom that we still enjoy in our country. And it is for this freedom that many from around the world have fought to get into our country. I have yet to see someone fighting to get out. Many that want the freedom that democracy offers are willing to risk their lives to bring change in their own country. And today, those folks live in Iran.

So why will our president not take a stand with those dying in the streets of Iran to help them gain the democracy that they so desperately want? We don't have to send any troups, money or U.S. flags to accomplish this. He only needs to speak directly to the protestors, letting them know that America is on their side. From multiple journalists we have heard that the election in Iran was not democracy in action. The votes of their citizens did not matter and a dictator remains. And they are speaking out, as in a democratic society you should be able to do.

If the president's decision not to support democracy in Iran is based on his relationship with the current leadership to maintain control over their nuclear program, he's a fool. The current leadership doesn't have any respect for any country or the U.N. and will continue down their nuclear path regardless of threats to them. And please let's take a look at history - Jimmy Carter's policy with Iran was so weak that the hostages that were taken were released the day he left the oval office, as a sign of their lack of respect for weakness.

Democracy must prevail, not only in our country but others as well. Democratic countries enjoy more freedom and are more stable globally. And if the president won't say it, I will. People of Iran who want democracy, you have my support. And Mr. President, your "political football" comment doesn't cut it.

Virginia Politics and VITA

2009-06-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

In reading this article in the Richmond Times Dispatch, I am concerned about the legality of the firing of the secretary of technology. According to the article, this is what we know:

- Lemuel C. Stewart Jr. was the technology czar (already I'm angry about that term) who was appointed by then governor, Mark Warner
- Mr. Stewart was fired yesterday after a presentation that he gave about Northrop Grumman
- the state of Virginia is paying Northrop Grumman $2.3 billion over 10 years "to supply Virginia agencies with computers, software and maintenance." according to the article.
- Mr. Stewart is questioning "...that Northrop Grumman is not documenting its bills adequately.." and "that the company is "still not meeting [its] contractual obligations," and that invoices to the state are documented insufficiently.", again, according to the article.

Am I missing something? A contractor is not meeting their agreement and the person that is trying to save the state of Virginia money is fired immediately. Please enlighten me if I, as a taxpayer have missed the point, or is this the tip of a billion dollar iceberg.

Vacations and Staycations...

2009-06-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Laurie and I have really done our traveling between Florida and New Jersey most of our lives. So I thought that we would write about some of the things that we've seen and some of the things that you would like to see this summer. Here we go:

Luray Caverns - now I can't remember - either Laurie was there or "on the way". Either way, I remember that blood was shed and one of our brothers lost a tooth. (It was probably too dark to find it). However, the caverns really are something to see. Visit Luray, VA, http://www.luraycaverns.com/.

Actually, some of this is now coming back to me. Mom was pregnant and the doctor said that she needed to walk about every 2 hours (we were driving from NJ to FL). I guess Dad thought the doctor said to walk for 2 hours, so we saw every cavern and underground lake from Virginia to Georgia. No worries about sunburn.

Missed Holiday in May

2009-05-28T08:08:00.001-07:00

I owe both of our readers an apology. I totally overlooked and missed Scurvy Awareness Day. I wrote about it last year, but can't believe that I forgot this year. So let's all have an orange today, and maybe we can forget this little incident. And here is a book about Scurvy that you can find at Amazon.

National Skin Care Awareness Month

2009-05-28T07:47:00.001-07:00

I just read that May is National Skin Care Awareness Month. But this is a topic that can certainly be considered at any time, especially now, the beginning of Summer. Here is a site that gives you some quick facts about skin cancer:

* Skin cancer and melanoma account for about 50% of all types of cancers diagnosed combined.
* Skin cancer is one of the more preventable types of cancer.
* More than 90% of skin cancer is causes by excessive exposure to the sun.
* Each hour, 1 person dies from skin cancer.

So lather up with lotion and enjoy the sunshine, safely.

Happy Memorial Day

2009-05-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

I hope that you enjoyed your Memorial Day weekend. And more important, did you have a moment to reflect on those that have served, fought and lost their lives protecting us and our freedoms.

Recently I saw a movie called "Taking Chance", about a marine escort that takes a fallen soldier home to his final resting place. This movie did a great job in showing how many lives are affected by our soldiers, and how people all across America never forget and always appreciate their sacrifice for us all. It's a must see.

Banana Nut Dog

2009-05-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

This recipe is bananas. B-A-N-A-N-A-S

In lean times and good times too, it's always good to use up all the edible food in the fridge, but what is a household to do after they've eaten hot dogs or sausage on the grill one night and then don't feel like that type of meal for another several weeks? You've got leftover buns, hon. Thanks for Jake for naming this new recipe.

Banana Nut Dog
1 half or whole hot dog bun
1 tablespoon of peanut putter
1/2 banana (optional)

Make into a sandwich for a quick on-the-go snack.

Dance like a Chicken Day

2009-05-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

There are so many special days I'm learning about. For all of you folks NOT at a wedding reception today, please make time to do the Chicken Dance. Thank you.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T05:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to Kim and to all the other hard-workin' mommas out there working, blogging, raising families and loving life.

Hope you have a great one.

Laurie

Celebrate Odd Day

2009-05-07T03:58:00.000-07:00

5/7/9 is one of six all odd-numbered dates in a century.

Let's see what math nerds have to say about this day.

Star Wars Day: May the Fourth Be With You

2009-05-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

Cinco de Mayo

2009-05-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo, or the celebration of the victory of the Mexican Army over the French Army in 1862. This historic battle is symbolic of freedom and independence in Mexico. For more information about this battle, visit here.

Democrats Connex to Swine Flu??

2009-04-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

Get your (very basic) facts straight Ms. Bachmann. THAT swine flu occurred under Gerald Ford, MD (Rep).

"I'm not blaming this on President Obama, but I just think it's an interesting coincidence, Ms. Bachmann said.

Happy Arbor Day

2009-04-23T10:03:00.000-07:00

April 24 is Arbor Day. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, here is the brief history of Arbor Day:

Arbor Day is a nationally-celebrated observance that encourages tree planting and care. National Arbor Day was founded by J. Sterling Morton in 1872, is celebrated on the last Friday in April.

If you happen to read my farm blog, you're probably thinking that this is just another excuse for me to encourage you to plant a tree. And you would be correct. Large trees can be planted in yards, and dwarf trees can be planted in containers and grow very well. Just ask the other Evoy.

Being Kermit

2009-04-22T08:01:00.001-07:00

Is there really anyone greener? Fox News has a list of the top 10 green stars. See here.

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-21T10:25:00.001-07:00

April 22 is Earth Day. Folks around the world will be working to make the earth a better, cleaner place to live. You might plant a tree, clean up your neighborhood or recycle something. Visit the Earth Day Network here. The photo came from this website.

Tea Party Update

2009-04-15T11:19:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize, the Washington Post did not have an article about the tea parties, just an article about the tea bags not being allowed for delivery in DC, due to lack of permits. Excepts that the permits were acquired and the secret service overrode the permits, just today, so that the protest in DC could not occur as planned. Curious. Here's the link.

One more update, I said that tea parties were planned in more than 50 cities. It was actually more than 2,000 rallies across the country (see same article). This information coming from the WaPo conversation with Grover Norquist, president of Americans for Tax Reform. I wonder how "irrevelant" conservatives will be come election day. Just a thought.

Honest Debate - Isn't it Past Due?

2009-04-15T10:53:00.000-07:00

Today is tax day and tea party day. And of course there are those just out there to mock freedom of speech. I like the tea party idea, using your voice to bring attention to obvious problems in our federal government and yes, those that transcend administrations.

The main objective to the tea party today is to bring attention to the government spending that is out of control. Does anyone dispute that spending is out of control? The leaders of our country are writing checks without any consideration of how the bills will actually be paid - and by whom. But those of us regular folks with jobs and/or businesses and pay taxes, every day, every week, every year, every paycheck, are beyond angry at how those dollars are spent. And it is time to take a peaceful stand.

Those that oppose the tea parties, however, are not interested in honest debate about the issues. Bloggers and name calling seem to be the way to go, or at the very least, a great way to get attention without actually doing anything. WaPo does have a little blip on their site about the tea parties and and NY Times has just decided to ignore it all together. That tactic is used to diminish the role of Republicans and conservatives in this country, that we don't have a voice and therefore are irrelevant. Let's review.

Of course Fox News is really the only news organization that is taking this seriously. There are more than 50 cities in the U.S. hosting tea parties today. Here's a quote:

Crowds of 5,000 to 10,000 are expected in various cities like New York and Atlanta, according to Mike Leahy, co-founder of Top Conservatives on Twitter, one of the three conservative groups helping to coordinate the protests on a national scale.

If 5,000 folks showed up in each of the 50 cities, then more than 250,000 would have attended and even more are in support of this idea - to bring to the attention of the federal government that it is indeed broken, needs fixing and that that citizens of this country are not going to stand for it.

Personally I believe that this is just the prelude to a much larger movement, that something bigger is on the horizon for this nation. And if folks on the sidelines want to stand there and shout names, that's fine. Just know that this affects you too.

Happy Easter

2009-04-09T05:52:00.001-07:00

God's timing is perfect, always. I have to believe that it is no mistake that this story has made it to the news and on this, the holiest of weeks. Off the coast of Somalia, a cargo ship carrying a U.S. crew was captured by pirates seeking ransom. However, in the course of the negotiations, the captain of the ship offered his life for the lives of the entire crew, not knowing his fate, but wondering, I'm sure, if this will be a fatal decision. A man gave himself for his friends - sound familiar? Here's the verse:

¹³Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. John 15:13

This week in the Christian world, we are celebrating that Jesus rode into Jerusalem as a king, was crucified as an innocent, and rose from the grave on the third day. He was crucified to save us, all of us from eternal death. Perfect timing.

10 Things To Recycle

2009-04-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

I saw this article on Weather.com today and thought that this was great info. Here are the 10 things:

1. Vintage doorknobs, radiators, windows and mantels
2. Toothbrushes
3. Foam packaging
4. Sneakers
5. Toys
6. Wine corks
7. Motor oil
8. Formal dresses
9. Eyeglasses, frames and cases
10. Computers, cell phones and other e-waste

Read more about how and where to recycle these items here. And thank-you Weather.com. What do you recycle?

Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

2009-04-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

I like mine cut down the middle.

Click here for more delish information.

Women's History Month

2009-03-30T06:17:00.000-07:00

Check out the National Women's History Project with news and information about the many milestones and accomplishments of women in history and most recently.

This page recognizes Lillian Wald, "mother of public health nursing"

A few of the 2009 honorees listed below

Mary Arlene Appelhof
1936 --2005
Biologist, Worm Farmer, Educator, Publisher, and Environmentalist
Michigan
Mary Appelhof advocated using the lowly earthworm to recycle food waste into usable fertilizer. In the early 1970s she turned her basement worm container into a career designing composting bins, marketing worms, and authoring Worms Eat My Garbage. As “Worm Woman,” she introduced thousands of schoolchildren and home gardeners to the fascinating, environmentally-significant activity of vermicomposting. http://www.wormwoman.com/acatalog/index.html
http://www.emilycompost.com/mary_appelhof.htm

Gillian Christie
President and Owner of Christie Communications
California
As CEO of Christie Communications, a full-service, organic marketing company exclusively helping ethical businesses, socially conscious organizations and charities broaden their impact through effective communication services, Gillian Christie has been helping organizations make peace profitable. The agency’s non-profit arm, Christie CommUnity Foundation, helps businesses partner with developing nations to facilitate growth, health and economic prosperity in communities such as Sudan, Sri Lanka and Rwanda. www.christiecomm.com

Moving Terrorists to Virginia

2009-03-26T06:06:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of talk this morning about moving the terrorists of 9/11 from Guantanamo Bay to ...Virginia. What? That's where I live. Politico has the story here, and then RedState has the commentary.

The problem with this situation is that there are people fighting for the rights of terrorists (and they are calling them something else now, more on that in another post). Should they receive the same rights and due process as every American citizen? I say not no, but Absolutely NOT! The only place that they should be moved is Alcatraz or Afghanistan, if they would be held and possibly tried there. The U.S. has housed, fed and clothed these people, whose only goal in life is to lose theirs while taking ours. And you can be that I certainly do not want them on the same continent as me, let alone in my back yard.

Spring!

2009-03-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the first day of Spring, and I say "bring it on". I'd like warm, sunny days and a little rain at night. The trees have already started blooming in Virginia, so that means that it's almost time to plant my garden and other flowers to be eaten by the deer. But is doesn't matter because spring is coming regardless - yippee!

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-17T05:41:00.000-07:00

History.com has a great article about Saint Patrick and why we celebrate his life. Read more about it here. In New York there will be a great parade, and in Chicago the river will be dyed green. What will be green for you today?

Plant a Flower Day

2009-03-12T12:33:00.001-07:00

DVT Awareness Month

2009-03-12T10:57:00.000-07:00

Can healthy legs lead to heart and lung health? Well, March is DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. According to NIH, following is information about DVT:

Definition
Deep venous thrombosis is a condition in which a blood clot forms in a vein that is deep inside the body.

Causes
Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh. The clot can block blood flow. If the clot breaks off and moves through the bloodstream, it can get stuck in the brain, lungs, heart, or other area, leading to severe damage.

Prevention
Moving your legs often during long plane trips, car trips, and other situations in which you are sitting or lying down for long periods of time can also help prevent DVT.

Educating people about DVT is truely a lifesaver. Today may be a good day for a long walk.

Airpork One

2009-03-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

Judicial watch posted a laundry list of requests from the Pelosi camp for military air travel. I thought I would help her out by naming her new air transport. Read the article here. And if speaker Pelosi likes the name, I can also help her out with a graphic.

No Smoking Day

2009-03-10T08:55:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is No Smoking Day in the U.K. I'm not really pushing for no smoking, but it is an issue that is pretty important to many folks. A few months ago I did write a short piece about the president and smoking.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

2009-03-09T07:41:00.000-07:00

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. According to the CDC,

It is estimated that as many as 60% of colorectal cancer deaths could be prevented if all men and women aged 50 years or older were screened routinely.

Which means that prevention is key. According to the same CDC website, anyone between the ages of 50-75 should be screened. Read more about this here.

The Truth From Charles Krauthammer

2009-03-06T05:54:00.001-08:00

So back to politics and focusing on the future of our country. The following article by Charles Krauthammer is the most clear and consise description of the deception of our financial crisis, the causes and the solutions. This paragraph pretty much sums it up:

The list is long. But the list of causes of the collapse of the financial system does not include the absence of universal health care, let alone of computerized medical records. Nor the absence of an industry-killing cap-and-trade carbon levy. Nor the lack of college graduates. Indeed, one could perversely make the case that, if anything, the proliferation of overeducated, Gucci-wearing, smart-ass MBAs inventing ever more sophisticated and opaque mathematical models and debt instruments helped get us into this credit catastrophe in the first place.

We're being duped and we need to know the truth about the future of our country so that we can do something about it. Thoughts?

National Grammar Day

2009-03-04T13:12:00.000-08:00

Celebrate by making turkey chili. The site says it's good for the colon.

Happy Birthday Dr. Suess

2009-03-02T13:45:00.000-08:00

I have been a Dr. Suess fan since I was a young reader and now am passing along all of the fun to Indira. Hop on Pop, Horton Hears a Who, and Oh the Thinks You Can Think, are all favorites.

National Doodle Day

2009-02-26T07:59:00.001-08:00

This blog really covers a variety of topics. Tomorrow is National Doodle Day, an awareness day to raise funds for people whose lives are affected by epilepsy and neurofibromatosis. Read all about it here and see doodles by famous folks that are contributing their talents.

Ash Wednesday

2009-02-25T07:33:00.001-08:00

Today is Ash Wednesday, the day in Christianity when we stop to think about Jesus and how he died for our sins. Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent, 40 days prior to Easter Sunday. The 40 days represents the time that Jesus spent in the desert praying prior to his execution and resurrection. It's a great time to take a moment and consider what Jesus did for you. What can you do for him today?

Mardi Gras

2009-02-23T07:02:00.001-08:00

Spring is just around the corner, and Mardi Gras is coming tomorrow, already. Time always seems to fly by, and here February is almost over.

Celebrating Black History Month

2009-02-21T06:11:00.000-08:00

poet Langston Hughes

To celebrate Black History Month, here is a video from History.com about the Harlem Renaissance, a time of great creativity, where artists and intellectuals flocked to New York city to be part of a new type of community in the 1920's. Here, Jazz was born, a uniquely American music style. Great artists emerged, such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Bessie Smith, forever changing the landscape of music and creating a bridge between white and black culture.

Jazzonia

Oh, silver tree!
Oh, shining rivers of the soul!

In a Harlem cabaret
Six long-headed jazzers play.
A dancing girl whose eyes are bold
Lifts high a dress of silken gold.

Oh, singing tree!
Oh, shining rivers of the soul!

Were Eve's eyes
In the first garden
Just a bit too bold?
Was Cleopatra gorgeous
In a gown of gold?

Oh, shining tree!
Oh, silver rivers of the soul!

In a whirling cabaret
Six long-headed jazzers play.

Holidays in February

2009-02-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

I'm out of the loop on holidays this week, but didn't want anyone to miss out. So here they were:

February 12 - Abraham Lincoln's Birthday
February 13 - Get a Different Name Day
February 14 - Valentine's Day
February 15 - International Childhood Cancer Day
February 16 - Presidents Day
February 17 - Random Acts of Kindness Day

And today, February 20, is Hoody-Hoo Day (and I honestly don't know what that is celebrating). Ok, I just Googled this and it looks like a day for folks that are tired of winter to celebrate the coming of spring. So Happy Hoody-Hoo Day.

Umbrella Day

2009-02-10T06:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I do not have any history on the origins of this holiday. But I found it on the internet, so it must be true. Read about it here.

Chinese Lantern Festival

2009-02-09T06:26:00.000-08:00

Today is the celebration of the Chinese Lantern Festival. Here is a link to learn about the history of the festival and how it is celebrated today.

Happy Birthday Charles Dickens

2009-02-06T07:37:00.001-08:00

Charles Dickens was born in 1812 on February 7. He left us with many gifts of literature, including "A Christmas Carol" "Great Expectations" and my personal favorite, "A Tale of Two Cities". That novel includes my favorite quote in literature:

"It is a far, far better thing that I have done, than I have ever done. It is a far, far better rest that I go than I have ever known."

Stress Down Day

2009-02-06T07:28:00.000-08:00

Are you stressed out today? Well it is Friday, but more importantly, it's Stress Down Day. This group really takes relieving stress to a new level. How do you get rid of stress? The photo here is from Toyota's Personal Relaxation Seat.

6 More Weeks of Winter....

2009-02-02T07:27:00.000-08:00

...or as we call it in Virginia, "mild weather". It really hasn't been a very cold winter in Virginia. We've had some cold days, but just yesterday the temp jumped into the 60's.

I really enjoy Groundhog Day, such a fun holiday in the middle of winter; a little silliness to get us through until spring. So Phil saw his shadow this morning. In Pennsylvania. And so did General Lee in Georgia. Well, 6 more weeks of a possiblity of snow, hot chocolate, warm fires in the woodstove, hearty stews and soups - I'm actually looking forward to it.

National Grapefruit Month

2009-01-31T18:05:00.000-08:00

For all of you pouring over the Sunday paper online, with half a grapefruit, and a cup of coffee, this month is for you. National Grapefruit month celebrates this tangy citrus fruit. Many of you know the benefits of vitamin C and let's not forget the protection against scurvy for all the pirates who read this blog, grapefruit juice also boasts a low calorie content.

If you're feeling resourceful in these belt-tightening times, and want to enjoy the benefits of a mid-winter facial, here's a recipe, thanks to the Ocean Spray website.

1 egg white
1 teaspoon Ocean Spray 100% White Grapefruit Juice
1 teaspoon sour cream
1 drop grapefruit essential oil

Happy Anniversary Sleeping Beauty

2009-01-29T07:35:00.001-08:00

Today marks the 50th anniversary of Disney's "Sleeping Beauty". The movie was based on the French fairy tale, "The Beauty Asleep in the Wood" that was originally published in 1967.

National Handwriting Day

2009-01-22T07:56:00.000-08:00

So tomorrow is National Handwriting Day, and, conicidentally, John Handcock's Birthday. This holiday began in 1977, probably as the glimpse into the future saw less writing and more typing. My handwriting has really gotten worse over the years, and yes, because I type 99% of my written communication. Maybe in honor of this day I'll learn caligraphy. Or just choose a nice font.

Inauguration Day

2009-01-20T07:08:00.000-08:00

The inauguration for the first U.S. president, George Washington, was held on April 30, 1789, in New York City.

From the middle of his speech, "I behold the surest pledges that as on one side no local prejudices or attachments, no separate views nor party animosities, will misdirect the comprehensive and equal eye which ought to watch over this great assemblage of communities and interests, so, on another, that the foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality, and the preeminence of free government be exemplified by all the attributes which can win the affections of its citizens and command the respect of the world."

I will add a a snippet from President Obama's speech later on today...

picture from Reuters

"My fellow citizens:

I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition....

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions - that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America....

....So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world…that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive…that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday

2009-01-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

From "I have a dream..." to "...I will faithfully execute the office of President..", this certainly is a day for celebration. I believe that Dr. King would have been proud of our nation.

January 18 Celebrations

2009-01-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

1778 - James Cook is the first known European to discover the Hawaiian Islands, which he names the "Sandwich Islands". (Because I love a good sandwich, I had to add this one. Also MyGeekBaby readers may remember the Preggo Sandwich blog entry about my unending hunger in 2007.

1886 - Modern field hockey is born with the formation of The Hockey Association in England. (although you only see women playing this sport in the United States)

Nice save, goalie!

Dress Up Your Pet Day

2009-01-14T07:49:00.000-08:00

I think that this holiday speaks for itself. Thoughts?

National Blood Donor Month

2009-01-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

You never know when you or your family is going to need it. I didn't really give it much thought until 9/11, when I saw thousands of people across this country, standing in line to help others. So I started donating and there really wasn't much to it. When you have a chance, give a pint and save a life. You can find out where to donate in your community at the American Red Cross website.

Steep in it: Hot Tea Month

2009-01-11T17:52:00.000-08:00

While we are celebrating daily celebrations in E&E we should also note that there are a few month-long holidays, like Hot Tea Month, Oatmeal Month and Hot Soup Month. Makes sense for January I suppose, as we're hunkered down in fleece and beneath blankets on the couch waiting for the spring thaw. So dunk your darjeeling, apple spice or orange pekoe and enjoy the simple pleasure of a cup of tea. I know I will.

Peculiar People Day

2009-01-11T17:30:00.000-08:00

January 10 is Peculiar People Day. This is a holiday of unknown origin. Kim saved this holiday for me (the oddball) to write about. So if you're extraordinary or just a little wacky, this day is for you. Celebrate! Stand on your head! Make up your own song and enjoy what makes you you unique...

Here I am at the Library of Congress looking a bit too mesmerized by the ornate architecture.

National Apricot Day

2009-01-09T05:38:00.000-08:00

Today is National Apricot Day, and why shouldn't we celebrate this sweet and diverse fruit. My favorites are dried apricots, but there are many ways to prepare them. Try one today and celebrate this tasty delight.

National Bubble Bath Day

2009-01-08T06:03:00.001-08:00

I don't mind telling you that this may be my new favorite January holiday. Here is it cold and rainy and there is nothing better than taking a long, hot, bubble bath at the end of the day to warm you up. Also, Mr. Bubble has always been one of my favorites. Enjoy! Find your Bubble Bath day greeting cards here.

Merry Russian Orthodox Christmas

2009-01-07T05:31:00.001-08:00

So in the U.S., we celebrate Christmas on December 25. In Russia, Christmas is celebrated according to the old Julian Calendar, 13 days after the traditional celebration. Read more about Christmas in Russia here.

Epiphany

2009-01-06T10:05:00.000-08:00

Today is the celebration of the Epiphany, the day when the Magi arrived to visit Jesus as an infant. It is celebrated 12 days after Christmas. Here is an article about this Christian festival. This is also the Christmas Eve for Eastern Orthodox Christians in Russia. See more about Eastern Orthodox Christmas here.

Happy Anniversary Alaska!

2009-01-05T06:21:00.000-08:00

January 3, 2009 marked the 50th anniversary of the statehood of Alaska. On January 3, 1959, Alaska became the 49th state of the United States of America. The process actually began in early 1900, according to the offical website.

World Braille Day - January 4

2009-01-05T06:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the 200th anniversary of the birth of William Braille, the inventor of braille. January 4-10th, 2009 is the weeklong celebration of braille and its' affect on the lives of the blind worldwide. See more here.

Funny Hat Day

2009-01-02T07:21:00.000-08:00

Indira and Melinda were happy to participate in this special day.

Who else will throw their hat in the ring?

kim - although I didn't find my own hat, I could not help but post this one, truly unique cat in the hat.

Hurrah for 2009

2009-01-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

At the end of most years, I'm kind of glad it's over. I like a fresh start. But 2008 was a most excellent year in many ways and I have a lot to be thankful for. Indira was born in January, we survived the first three months of her life, and endured chicken pox during month four. During 2008 we visited folks and had visitors and together ate some great meals with family and friends, while also experiencing an exciting election season. I got to experience Christmas through the eyes of a child again and that makes the holidays a lot of fun.

I'd say that's a pretty good year and I'd be nostalgic for it but there's so much to look forward to in 2009. For one, this idea of Kim's to update readers on national (and some, er ah, silly) holidays is going to keep us busy. While looking for cup cake recipes for Indira's first birthday, I discovered National Chocolate Cupcake Day. So stayed tuned...we've got a lot of ground to cover.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year

2008-12-30T08:36:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that 2008 is almost over and 2009 is just hours away. In the new year, Laurie and I thought it would be fun to celebrate as many holidays, observances and awareness days that we can find. So check back from time-to-time to see what we are celebrating each day. And have a very Happy New Year!

Freedom to Smoke

2008-12-08T07:46:00.000-08:00

You know that I'm the last person to support anything or anyone with a liberal agenda. But I have to speak out in defense of (yes, I am defending our president-elect) the president and smoking. The news reports about Mr. Obama and smoking are ridiculous. Smoking cigarettes is still legal, and at this moment we still have the freedom of choice to smoke or not in the U.S.. If Barack Obama wants to smoke in the White House, then so be it. He's got enough to worry about without the sanctimonious press preaching to him about the dangers of smoking. I say "smoke em if you got em."

Penny For Your Eye?

2008-11-05T07:45:00.000-08:00

So, while Laurie are on opposite sides of the political fence, fortunately we are on the same side when it come to traveling and holidays. Some of the best times for me have been in my travels with Laurie.

When Laurie was studying abroad in London in the mid-90's, I visited her there and we spent a day in Cardiff, Wales. Children were running around in the afternoon with a scarecrow-like figure on a wagon/cart and saying what we thought was "penny for your eye". It turns out they were saying "penny for the guy" as they were celebrating Guy Fawkes Day. Here is the history of this holiday. So Laurie, today I say to you, "Happy Guy Fawkes Day", and if you need a penny for your eye, I'll send you one.

Conservatives and Christians

2008-11-05T06:58:00.000-08:00

Why are conservatives and Christians so hated in this country? I have asked myself this question many times over the duration of this presidential campaign. Like any other group, conservatives and Christians have their issues. But at the heart of their politics, lies the truth about the U.S. and how it should be run, using Biblical truths as the moral compass.

In October I read this and heard about this video. It is the man that was just elected a Virginia state senator and his feelings about this group of people:

At a campaign stop, Senator Mark Warner (D-VA) [CORRECTION: Former Governor Mark Warner, running for the Senate seat being vacated by John Warner], includes homeschoolers in a list of people who "threaten what it means to be an American." His entire list consists of people who believe in Christ, people who believe in life, people who believe in the Second Amendment, and people who believe in educating their own children. Warner summarizes as the threat as "people who have all sorts of different views."

Really, homeschoolers, the NRA, Christians, people who believe in the sanctity of life are all threatening America? And please, tell me what would the alternative be if we are not fighting for these issues? If you are not using the Bible, what is your moral compass?

And the Winner is...Socialism

2008-11-05T06:33:00.001-08:00

Some might disagree, but socialism was the big winner in this 2008 election. And here are the details about how it is on the way:

- Capitalism was a big loser. If the new adminstration is going to "spread the wealth", what reason do I, as a business owner, have to go to work and make more money? Our success will not be rewarded, it will be taken away. I believe in taking care of others and my community. Now the government is going to force me to do this in ways that I probably will not agree. Which brings me to the next issue.

- Abortion will be front and center. This means that the sanctity of life is at risk in a way that it has never been, with people making decisions about who gets to live and who doesn't.

- The Fairness doctrine is making a comeback. Chuck Schumer was discussing this as late as yesterday, masking his decision with reducing pornography on the airwaves. What is really at risk is talk radio for conservatives. After all, why should we all have a voice when our opinions will now be decided for us. That's socialism at it's best.

- Supreme Court Justices - is the constitution at risk? With the appointment of judges by the new president elect, I doubt that any conservative issues will even be considered, again silencing those who oppose the new administration.

- Immigration - it's not necessary to be citizen to vote, get a driver's license, be educated. Unfortunately U.S. citizens are the only ones who pay income tax. More spreading of the wealth.

- Card check - this is where the unions eliminate secret ballots, which has been a cornerstone of our democracy. People will have to vote for fear of losing their jobs, not because of their personal desires. Will this be the model for the future of voting in this country?

-National Security - the new administration is already interested in meeting with our enemies. It that really going to make us stronger or just a world wide mockery of our lack of strength? It was the strength of forefathers that made us into a nation, not a nice little sit-down with King George. Sometimes wars have to be fought to bring change.

That's all I've got for today. I hope things do not go in the direction of socialism, but the wheels are already in motion. And with a democratic senate and house, there will be little, if any, opposition. Is this really what is best for our country and what will make it stronger?

A Change Will Do You Good

2008-11-05T06:16:00.001-08:00

I never thought I would quote Cheryl Crow but after last night's victory, I feel giddy. I'm happy. A layer of bitterness has been removed from my shoulders. Obama's speech brought tears to my eyes. I feel patriotic again.

And...my guesses were close

Obama will win with 53% of the vote.
Battleground states he'll win: Ohio, Penn and Virginia

Change can come in many ways - improved job opportunities and health care for more citizens, a new attitude that we're all in this together, we're not simply the overlords of the planet, an improved and open way of communicating with other countries and their leaders, improved morale for the citizens who have felt left out and ignored, corporate responsibility for the unregulated financial system, and holding ourselves accountable for the decisions we make for ourselves and our families.

From McCain's concession speech:
I urge all Americans ... I urge all Americans who supported me to join me in not just congratulating him, but offering our next president our good will and earnest effort to find ways to come together to find the necessary compromises to bridge our differences and help restore our prosperity, defend our security in a dangerous world, and leave our children and grandchildren a stronger, better country than we inherited.

Happy Election Day

2008-11-04T12:10:00.001-08:00

I haven't been this enthusiastic about voting until today! I'm excited about new possibilities. Change is imminent and I couldn't be happier about it.

BUT, I want to see actual change implemented to improve the lives of the citizens of the United States. Seeing campaign promises actually come to fruition can help us to trust our government representatives. But often they're just empty dollars spent on ads. Let's hope for something new.

Safe Candy

2008-10-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Hershey Company of Pennsylvania still makes the majority of their products in the United States. Here is a list of their manufacturing plants and the products made at those plants. These should be safe foods for you and your children during this holiday season.

Melamine and Halloween Candy

2008-10-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

More melamine tainted products are being recalled. Pirate's Gold Milk Chocolate is sold at Costco and has been recalled. See the article here. And here and here are links to the list of other items recalled in the last few weeks.

The State of the U.S. Economy and The Olive Garden

2008-10-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, the economic sky is falling, not just in the U.S. but worldwide. What I don't understand is the source of information that Wall Street is utilizing. Have they taken a look outside? It's almost like they are flying an airplane and then crash because they forgot to actually look out the window.

So I'm no economic wizard, but I do have a little common sense. And in the last few days, I found that the state of our economy IS strong, according to The Olive Garden.

Last weekend was our wedding anniversay, so my husband and I decided to celebrate with dinner at the Olive Garden. Except that on a Friday night at 8pm, we couldn't even get close to the door. On Saturday night we tried again, we able to get closer to the entrance but didn't actually step inside. So today, on a rainy Monday afternoon, we tried once again for lunch. And guess what we found? I completely full restaurant. We did get in and enjoyed a great lunch with the delicious salad and endless breadsticks, then ultimately I was way too full for the over-the-top chocolate desserts. But what about that bad economy? Oh yeah, let me get back on track.

I don't think that us middle class yahoos (or Joe the Plumbers, to be exact) got the message about the economy. We still have jobs, still have a little business and can still get out and eat a meal every now and then. And if Wall Street wants to know what's happening on Main Street, they should step outside and enjoy the pasta. Maybe things aren't quite as bad as they think.

The Charlottesville Bypass

2008-10-23T06:18:00.000-07:00

The Daily Progress has an excellent article this morning. It looks like Lynchburg and Danville are finally fed-up. They have put in a route 29 bypass that has been a huge timesaver for north/south travelers. Charlottesville, however, refuses to build the bypass for which they have already received funds. Their argument - that it won't really save time. Nonsense! For anyone traveling north or south on route 29, they have to allocate an extra 20 minutes just to weave through the numerous (and unsynchronized) lights in Charlottesville to reach their destination. Lynchburg and Danville have done their job, now it's time for Charlottesville to do their job or repay the $50 million already received for the project. Here's the full article.

What Would President Obama Do?

2008-10-21T06:41:00.000-07:00

The directors at RedState have put together an informative article about the goals of an Obama administration, with the support of the House and Senate. Take a look at these 12 policies and let us know if you think that this will strengthen our country or weaken our freedom. I believe that these policies will be devastating to our country and will be the beginning of the end of the middle class. Thoughts?

Colin Powell Endorses Obama

2008-10-19T08:33:00.000-07:00

On Sunday's Meet the Press, Colin Powell, a military man who served during both Bush Administrations gave his personal and political endorsement of Barack Obama. (Note: he was shown in a Sept 20 recording of a news program saying that he wouldn't vote for Obama simply because he is black, "We have to move beyond this.")

Powell introduced his position by explaining that has been a friend and colleague of John McCain for 25 years and has held several meetings with Obama during the last two years and both would be good presidents. However, in the end, and due to choices made by both candidates during the campaign, in choice of running mates and irrelevant attack ads on TV, eventually lead him to decide to vote for Obama.

Ability to inspire, steadiness during the campaign, having intellectual curiosity, and trying to find solutions for all economic populations of the U.S. were some of the reasons cited by Powell for supporting Obama. Priorities for a new president includes conveying a new image of American leadership to American and to the world. "We need to restore a sense of confidence."

Criticisms for the McCain campaign included McCain's selection of Sarah Palin (who had said he admires), who does not feel has the readiness to lead the country if she were to become president. I think this is telling. Powell was not criticizing her beauty pageant past, but her political power and depth of knowledge. He does not feel that McCain has enough of a grasp on our economic issues to be in the presidency. McCain has admitted as much during the last year.

Powell also felt this his party has slammed Obama for reasons that have nothing do to with him. Powell said that leaders in the GOP have lead whisper campaigns gossiping that Obama is a Muslim, when he is in fact a Christian. But Powell pushed the issue further. What if Obama was a Muslim? We have American-born Mulsims fighting in our military in support of U.S. issues. Shouldn't they have a voice in this election?

What Would Oprah Do?

2008-10-17T04:46:00.000-07:00

A small digression in this hot political season for a bit of fun - a social experiment if you will.

Yoga instructor turned Oprahite, Robyn Okrant, decided to follow Oprah's advice for an entire year. 600 hours and more than $3,000 later, she's decided this exhausting experiment is a bit much. Not a crazed fan, but more of a social scientist, Ms. Cook found the advice to range from logical and good (i.e. giving to charity, adopting pets) to the weird, (i.e., buying leopard print flats that Oprah said were a MUST).

More on her blog

Happy Columbus Day

2008-10-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I forgot. I forgot that it was Columbus Day and that the banks would be closed and the post office would not be delivering mail. I didn't send cards, or purchase gifts. And my family will have to get along without a special meal, no celebration.

Columbus Day is about celebrating the man who discovered America. That's pretty significant considering how many of us have now lived in this country since 1492. And how far we've come. Unfortunately we just sweep this holiday under the rug each year. I don't know about you, but I'm going to try to be a little more thoughtful about this next year in recognition of how Christopher Columbus changed the direction of our lives, for the better.

Why People Use the E.R.

2008-10-09T05:53:00.000-07:00

An article in Slate, and a follow-up discussion in WaPo about the Slate article provide some interesting details about why people are using the ERs around the country.

From the Slate article

The problem is that this story of the healthy, cavalier, uninsured E.R. abuser is largely a myth. E.R. use by the uninsured is not wrecking health care. In fact, the uninsured don't even use the E.R. any more often than those with insurance do. And now, a new study shows that the increased use of the E.R. over the past decade (119 million U.S. visits in 2006, to be precise, compared with 67 million in 1996) is actually driven by more visits from insured, middle-class patients who usually get their care from a doctor's office. So, the real question is: Why is everybody, insured and uninsured, coming to the E.R. in droves? The answer is about economics. The ways in which health information is shared and incentives aligned, for both patients and doctors, are driving the uninsured and insured alike to line up in the E.R. for medical care.

Obama Clinches 'Joe Cabernet Sauvignon' Vote

2008-10-09T05:49:00.000-07:00

A break in our regularly scheduled rant for some comic relief from The Onion:

WASHINGTON—Following a strong performance by the Democratic nominee in Tuesday's presidential debate, political analysts overwhelmingly agree that Sen. Barack Obama has all but clinched the much-sought-after "Joe Cabernet Sauvignon" voting bloc. "Once again, Obama has proved his ability to speak directly to all the regular truffle-oil-guzzlin', Nabokov-readin', opera-attendin' folks who play such an important part in deciding this election," MSNBC commentator Chris Matthews said of the Illinois senator's strong connection with the nation's hardworking gallery owners, literary critics, and gourmet-cheese purveyors. "His strong rapport with the average haut monde Joseph could tip the scales Nov. 4." Sen. John McCain's recent attempts to reach out to this constituency by wearing an elegant silk ascot were not well received, having been described in most quarters as "pandering of the most contemptuous variety."

Rights, Privileges and Responsibility

2008-10-08T07:15:00.000-07:00

This is how the election will end up, with Americans defining their country. One of the questions in the debate last night was about healthcare. Each candidate was asked if healthcare in this country was a right, a privilege or a responsibilty. Barack Obama said that it was a right and John McCain said that it was a responsibility. I agree with John McCain.

My opinion about our great country is that the downfall will be entitlement. I believe that each person has to take responsibility for themselves. When we start viewing the government as the responsible party and begin to think that benefits are rights, we are changing the nature of democracy and capitalism. If benefits become rights, there is no motivation for innovation or for success. Everyone will have the same and no matter how hard you work, everyone will receive the same. And that is socialism.

I want to continue living in a democracy. However, the outcome of this election may determine if we are moving toward a socialist state. Comments?