Politically Funny

True Colors

2011-09-13T20:38:00.004-05:00

President Obama signed The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act on March 23, 2010. Before this time there was a lot of discussion. Republican Sarah Palin declared there would be "Death Panels". However, many without insurance or without great insurance had already dealt with death panels. It goes basically like this, your insurance will only pay a maximum of X amount of dollars. You have reached that limit. Ok,so you ask the hospital how much will cost to keep my loved one at the hospital and then they give you the astronomical figure that there is no way your family can afford. You have just met your death panel.
So yes, America does have the best healthcare available. It just isn't available to all Americans. For that matter a lot of basic healthcare isn't available to all Americans.
During the debate about the PPAC Act, Congressman Alan Grayson spoke on the floor of the House Representatives. Here is the video :

Oh, so many people on the right got up in arms over this. Such outrage that he could even suggest that was how they truly felt. How dare he question their humanity, even if the record showed otherwise.
Then it passed and was signed by President Obama. I was truly grateful that had been signed. Though it wasn't the Universal Healthcare I had supported at least it was a step in the right direction. This Act of wanting to protect Americans and provide them with healthcare met with some of the most ugly comments from people on the right. In fact, it severed ties between myself and family member. As I had watched a family member die before her time because of not having health insurance and another family member that couldn't be bothered with even sending her a card, simply thought if you don't have health insurance that is your problem and too bad. Basically, for that person, she just didn't die fast enough.
Of course there are always those that like to say Republicans have compassionate conservativism. Perhaps there are a few left that do. But they aren't the driving force of this party anymore. The driving force of the Republican Party is now the Tea Party and Alan Grayson was RIGHT, if you get sick they want you to DIE.
The absolute proof of this came at their own debate. The Republican Party held a debate on Monday Sept 12, 2011. Please watch the video, listen to the crowd scream for the patient to DIE.

Please do NOT every claim that Republican/Tea Party is the party of Jesus Christ EVER again!!!!!
On a side note I do believe that Karma is a powerful force, so while I will not wish anything bad on these people, I will wish Karma on them 10 fold. May they walk in the shoes of those they condemn to death for being poor.

10 yrs Later

2011-09-12T07:12:00.002-05:00

I had posted this on Facebook and was just going to leave it at that. However, today I feel the need to get back to blogging and this would certainly be the piece to start that again.
10 Years Later

Where was I on 09/11/01 ? I was at home with my daughters. I spent the day heartbroken, then hopeful there would be survivors, then devastated knowing there weren't. And also grateful that my friend Toni was ok and her family was ok. The next day, I was numb just watching the news over and over. 24hr news can be a bad thing for someone with insomnia. This one event, this one tragedy has changed our nation in more ways than we ever could have expected. From being shoulder to shoulder in solidarity to turning on neighbors, questioning their faith and their patriotism. We went from having freedoms to having Grandma molested by TSA agents in her wheelchair.There have been many political mistakes made, costing us both lives and treasure. We are a nation of great National Landmarks. We used to be able to visit them, study them, video them, and take pictures of them without question. This no longer exist. Every American is now a suspected terrorist. This is not the America I grew up in and it makes me sad that this is what we are handing over to our children. So, when I think of 9/11 what do I feel? At first, my heart is saddened by the pain of those that have lost their lives on that day, those that have gone to war because of that day, and those rescuers that died later from the toxic air. But then I become angry. Not just at that piece of filth that came up with the plan for 9/11 or his trolls that hi jacked the planes, but 10 yrs later I become angry with us. We are a resilient strong nation. We are NOT weak people, not in mind nor in spirit. Yet it is hard to see that in the way we have treated each other over the last 10 yrs. The moment you think it is OK for our government to illegally spy on your neighbor, you have forgotten what it is to be an American. The moment you think it is OK to ban someone's religion, you have forgotten what it is to be an American. The moment you think you have the right to questions someone else's patriotism or think you are more of an American they are, you have forgotten what it means to be an American. I truly hope that today people will come together again and remember, we are ALL Americans. " United We Stand, Divided We Fall." Think about that, reflect on the last 10 yrs, and then think of the future you want for the people of this nation. God Bless Us, and God Bless America.

2010-12-09T19:09:00.000-06:00

Like I Said Before...

2010-05-15T02:06:00.002-05:00

I would like to say "Oh I am sooo shocked by this!", but I am not. Yesterday a family member was in car accident and rushed to the hospital. Her car is totalled and she is in great pain. The driver of the other vehicle that hit her did NOT have insurance! Isn't that illegal?? The driver of the other vehicle didn't have a driver's license! OMG isn't that illegal too??? The driver of the other car was in this country ILLEGALLY! And yes, that is illegal too!!! So tell me...who is going to pay for her car? Mr. Illegal that doesn't care about the laws because he is really a wonderful person that just comes here to the do the jobs Americans will not do?? Doubt it!! This person entered our nation illegally and then proceded to break more laws. My family member will have to pay for HER CAR and HER Medical, even though it is the other person's fault!!! I have never liked suing people, but in this case I hope my family member not only sues Mr. Illegal who probably will not show because he has already proven he doesn't care about our laws, but also sues the Company that this person is employed by if he is even employed! I say so the employer because they contributed to this illegal being in our country, staying in our country, thus having the means to wreck into my family.
I would also love to say this is the exception...a fluke. But it isn't, around 6 or 7 yrs ago, the samething played out in a different city with my niece. An Illegal hit her, totalled her Mustang, of course no insurance, no license, etc. He was in jail for 6 hrs and then released. My Niece was stuck having to save up money to buy another car. It is never enough, just to break the law of entering our nation!!!

Feel Good Friday 5/14/2010

2010-05-14T04:27:00.002-05:00

I really like this song. Que Sera Sera by Connie Francis , I like her version much better than Doris Day's. Listen to the words and just know that whatever will be , will be.

The Immigration Law

2010-05-13T01:06:00.003-05:00

I have seen good decent law abiding citizens declared racist and xenophobes. I don't think someone is racist for wanting our Immigration Laws enforced. But I will tell you something that I find extremely racist, people that want to allow one ethnic group the right to break the laws of our nation without consequence. Why is OK for people from Mexico, Central America, and South America that are Hispanic to enter our nation illegally, without proper documentation?? I want to know why that group is supposed to have amnesty for breaking our laws. And yes, I say laws. Laws, because once they enter this nation illegally nearly everything they do here is deemed to be illegal. If they drive, if they work, if they make false documents, or the one I love the most if they vote in our elections.
As an American citizen I am REQUIRED to have a passport in order to re-enter the USA. So, tell me again why Hispanics from other nations should not have to have legal documentation to enter.
Again, if you aren't Hispanic you must adhere to the laws. I have yet to hear anyone
say "Let's end all documentation for ANYONE wanting to enter the USA." Either end the documentation for EVERYONE or keep it for EVERYONE. And yes, by everyone I mean people from Libya, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Poland, Russia, North Korea, Singapore, China, Iraq, etc. (oh, and people from the USA too!) Because if you don't do that for EVERYONE (let them enter without ANY documentation) and only want to do it for people that are Hispanic, then YOU are the racist.

I also wanted to post a link to Border Reporter. It is a blog that I respect. Border Reporter focuses a lot on the humanity and exploitation of illegal immigrants. No matter how you feel or think about immigration laws, Border Reporter is really worth the read.
http://borderreporter.com/

Feel Good Friday 02/26/10

2010-02-26T05:50:00.002-06:00

It's Feel Good Friday!!! Brenda, I love you. I hope you had a good birthday. You mean the world to me.

Forgive Them, For They Know Not What They Do

2010-02-18T23:57:00.007-06:00

I truly try to not write about religion. Politics = Yes. Religion = No!! I suppose because I don't care what people believe when it comes to different religions. If you want to worship a tree that isn't going to effect my life. If you want to go to church on Sunday, that isn't going to effect my life. However, your politics may very well effect my life. Thus, I care what people think regarding politics. This post though is going to be about religion.
I just finished reading an article by John Avlon called Praying for Obama's Death. We have Christians (I am using that term VERY loosely at this moment!) that believe it is their duty to pray for the death of President Obama. Even at my worst, when I could not stand the thought of President George W. Bush for one more day, I did not pray for his death. I did pray for him to go back to his ranch in Texas!
From the article:
"Praying for President Obama’s death has become a sick cottage industry for some evangelicals on the lunatic fringe. Bumper stickers, T-shirts, and teddy bears are sold with the wholesome-sounding slogan “Pray for Obama” but tagged with the more troublesome “Psalm 109:8”—which reads “May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership” followed by “May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow.” "

Avlon interviewed two preachers ,Wiley Drake from California and Arizona’s Steven L. Anderson.
"With the death of Democratic Congressman John Murtha after gallbladder surgery last week, Drake declared that God had again listened to his imprecatory prayers. Drake’s Presidents’ Day weekend prayer hit-list reproduced Judicial Watch’s “Ten Most Wanted Corrupt Politicians” list for 2009, without attribution and aiming for something well beyond indictment. The list includes Senator Chris Dodd, Senator John Ensign, Representative Barney Frank, Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner, Attorney General Eric Holder, Nancy Pelosi and, of course, President Obama. “We have listed here only a few of those that we are praying for,” wrote Wiley, “first for their salvation in Jesus, and if they continue to deny God and do unrighteous things to our country we then agree with God that He take them out.” “Take them out”—not words usually attributed to the Bible."

At this point, I must wonder if the government should list Drake as a Co-Conspirator for the murder of Murtha. Hmmm??
This is the drivel that Avlon had to endure from Andersen:
“I hate Barack Obama. You say, well, you just mean you don’t like what he stands for. No, I hate the person. Oh, you mean you just don’t like his policies. No, I hate him … I am not going to pray for his good. I am going to pray that he dies and goes to Hell.”

Some how, I just don't picture Jesus screaming about hate. Not even on the cross did Jesus spew this hate and venom. No, according to Luke 23:34 he said "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do."
Some how, I think that message will apply here.

Please read the full article here Praying for Obama's Death - Page 1 - The Daily Beast

Equality, Feminism, and Diversity

2010-02-17T02:53:00.003-06:00

Equality, Feminism, and Diversity are 3 topics that can make usually sane people sound like they have gone bonkers (bonkers = technical term for losing your mind for no damn good reason, not to be mistaken as slur toward people that are truly mental ill). On a quick side note, I really get annoyed by the politically correct speech police!!
Back on topic with my 3 topics. What is that makes people so emotional over these issues? In a word, Power. Someone has it and doesn't want to relenquish it. Someone does not have it and wants it. And it is here, along these lines that people with good intentions lose their way.
If you want a minority to have a job position or be accepted into a school based on either gender or race, then I think you have lost focus. Is it truly so bad to want to achieve something soley on your merit?
I do not want any person denied an opporotunity simply based on race or gender, but at the same time I think you should not recieve one based on race or gender either.
It is a very very basic principle.
Should I have to rush one of my children to the Emergency Room, I want them to have the best doctor possible. I do not want them to have the doctor that had less experience, a lower GPA, but happened to be the right color or gender. I also believe if you want a job that has traditionally been done by men, you should go for it! I hope you achieve it. I also hope that you have at least the same qualifications and ablities as your male counterparts.
When my niece was wanting to be a firefighter, 4'11 and maybe 120, I told her that's wonderful as long as she can lift my big butt out of a burning building! So, my husband worked with her over and over until we knew should could pass the requirements that a man would have to.
You see, to do anything else would be saying "I am not equal. I can't really do this job but give it to me anyway because I am a woman." She just was not going to have that!
Do not hire people just for diversity's sake! It is an insult! Hire people because they are the best qualified!!

Just follow the simple rule of removing gender and race from the selection process and the world will be a better place.

Feel Good Friday 02/12/10 Andy Gibb

2010-02-12T00:20:00.001-06:00

Feel Good Friday with Andy Gibb!! Andy Gibb was the youngest of the Gibb brothers. This song was written by all four brothers and went platinum. Mr. Gibb died 5 days after his 30th birthday. His music, looks, and charm have been missed every since.

Alienation of Affection

2010-02-10T17:49:00.002-06:00

According to the National Enquire, John Edwards has asked his mistress to marry him.

Knowing that Elizabeth Edwards is an attorney I am HOPING that she has remembered the law regarding alienation of affection. I also hope she files paperwork and subpeonas the "the sex tape", ya know for evidence. As if the child born from this affair isn't enough evidence of it.

As of 2008 there are only six states that recognize the alienation of affection law, they are Hawaii, Illinois, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, South Dakota, and Utah.
From wiki "At common law, alienation of affections is a tort action brought by a deserted spouse against a third party alleged to be responsible for the failure of the marriage. The defendant in an alienation of affections suit is typically an adulterous spouse's lover, although family members, counselors and therapists or clergy members who have advised a spouse to seek divorce have also been sued for alienation of affections."

In North Carolina it seems the juries really can be generous.
From Rosen Law Firm:
"Even in this decade, the trend of generosity has continued. In August of 2000, a Burke County judge awarded a devastated wife $86,250 for alienation of affection and $15,000 for criminal conversation, totaling $101,250. In May of 2001, in Richmond County, the jury answered the issues of alienation of affection and criminal conversation in favor of the scorned husband and awarded him compensatory damages of $50,000 plus punitive damages of $50,000. Another distraught husband, in Mecklenburg County, received an award of $1.4 million in May, 2001 comprised of $910,000 in compensatory damages and $500,000 in punitive damages.The jury found the doctor who had had an affair with this man’s wife liable for both alienation of affection and criminal conversation. After an appeal the original award of compensatory damages was reversed, the punitive damages award, however, was upheld."

I really would LOVE to Elizabeth Edwards put this "woman" in court , infront of the world and sue her for every penny she planned on taking from Elizabeth's family!!

Feel Good Friday 02/05/10

2010-02-05T07:58:00.003-06:00

Feel Good Friday!!! Celine Dion's Because You Loved Me. I think this song pretty much sums up anything I could say. I hope you all have had people in your lives that have you loved this much. I am very blessed and very, very thankful that I have. You are my strength.

With Love,
Idava

If I Had My Life to Live Over

2010-02-03T04:10:00.002-06:00

Perhaps it is because I will be turning 40 this year or perhaps it because of the large amount of death that has surrounded my family this year, either way I found myself working on my "bucket list". The bucket list is quite simply a list of things you want to accomplish, do or see before you die. I realized how much I had done when I was working on this list. Actually I was quite surprised even. Of course there are still things left to be done. One of the accomplishments was going on vacation with my sister and her family. On the list is still running away with my sister for girl's weekend, just Brenda and me. I have gone on vacation with brother and his family. But now, John has his pilot's license so on my list is to go flying with brother as the pilot. Not sure that is what he wants but he will get over it. Perhaps he should put it on his list too!!
While on my adventure to find things to add to my list of things to do before I die I found this article by Erma Bombeck. My Mom used to listen to Erma Bombeck while I was growing up. I can remember being a child and reading her books. I distinctly remember If Life is a Bowl of Cherries What am I doing in the pits? and The Grass is always greener over the septic tank. Mrs.Bombeck was absolutely genius when it came to being married and raising children.

If I Had My Life to Live Over
By Erma Bombeck

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the "good" living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my children and not worried about grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television, and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner."

There would have been more "I love you's." More "I'm sorry's."

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute, look at it and really see it, live it, and never give it back.

Stop sweating the small stuff. Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.

Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who DO love us.

Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with.

And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, as well as spiritually.

Life is too short to let it pass you by.

We only have one shot at this and then it's gone.

I hope you all have a blessed day.

Martial Law

2010-01-31T22:56:00.002-06:00

For the most part I have never been much of a fan of martial law. So much power in the wrong hands denying people of their basic liberties that is the basis for my distrust. However, I think the saying goes "Drastic times call for drastic measures."
Per wikipedia
"Martial law is the imposition of military rule by military authorities over designated region(s) on an emergency basis—and often, but not necessarily, only temporarily—when the civilian government or civilian authorities fail to function effectively (e.g., maintain order and security, and provide essential services), or when there are extensive riots or protests, or when the disobedience of the law becomes wide-spread."

Mostly everything I cover on this blog is about either the state of Tennessee or the United States. This is going to be an exception to that. Because the actions or lack of that nation of Mexico makes in the near future are going to greatly effect both Texas and other states of the United States. Currently, I think the state of Texas needs to put the National Guard on our border with Mexico. And the answer is "No, this has nothing to due with illegal immigration."

This is about the blood that is being spilled in the border town of Ciudad Juarez. While many in the USA were watching the Grammy Awards tonight 13 people aged 15-20yrs were killed. These were just kids. They weren't the first and they wont be the last. Over 15,000 people have been killed in Mexico in drug cartel incidents in the last 3 years. This violence will spread to our country if Mexico doesn't stop it.
You can read more about this incident here Armed Men Kill 13 Students at Party in Mexican Border City - AOL News

I have never cared much about "illegal drugs" or "the war drugs". For the most part I don't care what adults do in their home. (Notice I said adults, not children. Children should always be protected.) I don't care if an adult drinks a 6 pack of beer, a fifth of Jack, or smokes a joint. I don't care. Just don't get in your car and drive. Most importantly don't be around kids!

At this moment though, I believe those guns and their bullets were funded by drugs bought in the USA. That bothers me. No, not from any guilt on my part. I have not taking illegal drugs or smoked marajuana. I can barely take the medicine a doctor prescribes me. I was never willing to take that chance with my life. Now more than ever, our country needs to make a serious decision regarding. We should either legalize it, thus putting the cartels out of business. Or we need to ramp up the DEA (oh I don't like that idea) or another government agency to make sure that not 1 oz not 1 drop of any illegal substance comes into this nation. Because until either one of those is done, people will keep buyin the drugs and cartels will become more and more powerful. Taking more and more lives and "turf" until we are forced to implement Martial Law in the United States.

Feel Good Friday 01/15/10

2010-01-15T07:41:00.002-06:00

If you got worries, then you're like me.
Don't worry now, I won't hurt you.
And,if you got worries, then you're like me.
Don't worry now, I won't desert you.

And, If you get a chance, you put your dancing shoes on.
The country's calling, and thats where I'm going.
Don't know if you're in my way, but, I'll take you along.
I'll take you along.

It is Feel Good Friday!! Might sound odd but, I heard this song on commercial. And I liked IT! The singer is Langhorne Slim the song "Worries". Enjoy!

Idava

Feel Good Friday 01/08/10

2010-01-08T01:22:00.002-06:00

It's Feel Good Friday. It would also have been Elvis' 75 Birthday!! Even after all these years he is still missed. There has never been another like him. He was a force of nature. Graceland will be having celebrations all weekend. Click here for more details http://www.elvis.com/graceland/calendar/elvis_birthday.asp

2010 Look Out 'Cause Here I am

2010-01-02T20:33:00.002-06:00

I was talking with a friend tonight about this past year and the one we have just entered. He told me that my Aunt would not want for me to keep being sad, to keep greiving, she would want better than that for me. He was right. I know exactly what she would say to me, something that I had once said to her.
She was planning a party for all the family to come and have a good time. HA! I have a large Italian family, "expect someone to piss someone else off" is always on the menu. But this day was important. We all knew that everyone had to get along that day. So, I told my Aunt 2 things that we were going to tell everyone before they came. The first was that if anyone starting anything that I would stand up and start telling all of that person's secrets. Yes, I would do it with out a second thought! The other thing we told people who didn't want to be around everyone besides "too bad" was "Put your big girl panties on and suck it up!!". My Aunt got such a kick out of that saying. She kinda had her own way of saying things. So, she would say " Put your big girl panties on and suck it in!!".
So, to 2010, look out 'cause here I am, I have "put my big girl panties on and sucked it in!"!!

Hello 2010

2010-01-01T15:14:00.002-06:00

If you wake up and don't want to smile
If it takes just a little while
Open your eyes and look at the day
You'll see things in a different way

Happy New Year Everyone! Bonus--- It is also Feel Good Friday!! I like this song a lot. It reminds me of happier times, the Clinton years. Life was good then but this was Clinton's theme song. Why? Probably because the 80's were so hard on our country. Here we are again, so let's hope for a better tomorrow!

Good-Bye 2009

2009-12-31T19:36:00.002-06:00

I'm not ready to make nice
I'm not ready to back down
I'm still mad as hell and
I don't have time to go round and round and round
It's too late to make it right
I probably wouldn't if I could
'Cause I'm mad as hell
Can't bring myself to do what it is you think I should

I suppose many think the end of the old year and the beginning of the new year is a time to start anew. Leave transgressions against us in the past. Forgive and forget? It is a nice thought. I, however, do not believe you can change emotions based on a day in calendar. So, do not think that just because we enter a new year I will be willing to kiss and make - up and be friends again. Not going to happen.
Some say it is an opportunity to make improvements in our lives. Our wonderful list of resolutions for the next 364 days that we hope to make it 30 days. Hmmm, perhaps I should resolve to care a lot less about other people. That would definately bring down my stress. Some how, I just don't see that happening. It must be that having a soul and conscience thing.
Oh well, I think I am still going to be reflecting on 2009 for a few days before I can even consider changes to make in 2010.

"An optimist stays up until midnight to see the New Year in. A pessimist stays up to make sure the old year leaves." ~ Bill Vaughan

George Jones and the Give Hope Project

2009-12-16T10:02:00.001-06:00

Country music fans will see the Jones’ astonishing outdoor light display, have a chance to meet Santa Claus and donate toys to needy families

Franklin, TN – Country music icon George Jones and wife Nancy invite the public to their home on Friday, December 18 in Franklin, TN. The Jones family has once again put up an incredible light display and will also be hosting a visit by the seasonal saint himself, Santa Claus, this Friday from 6-8pm. Each year George and Nancy look for a way to give back to the local community, and have reached out to The Give Hope project of The People’s Church to help take donations of toys to distribute to needy families throughout middle Tennessee.

ADMISSION IS FREE (TOY DONATIONS ACCEPTED AND REQUESTED). THE EVENT IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

DIRECTIONS:

Follow up:

Located within the Nestledown Farms subdivision East of I-65 on Murfreesboro Road. From I-65 Exit 65, proceed East on Murfreesboro Rd /TN-96 E 4.5 miles, turn right (south) on Nestledown Dr and proceed .4 miles to the cul-de-sac.

Toys may also be donated during regular business hours to:
The People’s Church
828 Murfreesboro Rd
Franklin, TN 37064-2905

Feel Good Friday 12/11/09

2009-12-11T04:31:00.002-06:00

It is Feel Good Friday!!! I was blessed to live in a home that played a variety of music. This is from the 1950's. Little Bitty Pretty One by Thurston Harris will make you clap, hum, and sing!!! Enjoy!

Idava

Lost Woman

2009-12-09T15:11:00.001-06:00

Oh how I do love the internet. Today I got an email from my friend Toni that I just had to share.

LOST WOMAN

A woman in a hot air balloon realized she was lost. She lowered her altitude and spotted a man in a boat below. She shouted to him,

"Excuse me, can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don't know where I am."

The man consulted his portable GPS and replied, "You're in a hot air balloon, approximately 30 feet above ground elevation of 2,346 feet above sea level. You are at 31 degrees, 14.97 minutes north latitude and 100 degrees, 49.09 minutes west longitude.

"She rolled her eyes and said, "You must be an Obama Democrat."

"I am,"replied the man. "How did you know?"

"Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is technically correct. But I have no idea what to do with your information, and I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help to me."

The man smiled and responded, "You must be a Republican."

"I am," replied the balloonist. "How did you know?"

"Well," said the man, "you don't know where you are or where you are going. You've risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise you have no idea how to keep, and you expect me to solve your problem. You're in exactly the same position you were in before we met, but somehow, now it's my fault."

Feel Good Friday 12/04/09

2009-12-04T01:02:00.002-06:00

It is Feel Good Friday!! I can remember my sister listening to this song when I was growing up. For some reason it was in my head, so I decided to share with everyone else. Yes, it is one of those tunes that you will hum all day long. Enjoy!!

Idava

Roy Herron Drops Out of Governors Race???

2009-12-02T02:49:00.003-06:00

At 2:45 am I received an email from the campaign of Sen. Roy Herron. Here is the letter:

"Idava,

Tonight, my longtime friend and Congressman, John Tanner, announced he will not seek re-election to Tennessee’s 8th District.

Given the challenges facing this nation, this state, and this congressional district, I feel like I can help make a difference by serving in Congress. And so, I want to let you know immediately of my decision to run.

You deserve a much fuller explanation of my decision than I can give at this late hour. I will be back in touch with you soon to share more. For now, I respectfully ask for your consideration, your support, and your prayers.

Your friend,

Roy"

I like Sen. Herron. I really thought he could have made a huge difference as Governor of Tennessee. He has been a leader in the straw polls so this decision comes as quite a surprise. With Sen Herron out of the Governor's Race, it really opens the door for Jim Kyle. Kyle gives the burning of the barn style stump speeches and people love them!! I think he will fill the void left by Herron. It would take quite a lot for Cammack, McWherter, or McMillan to catch the Herron supporters.
As for the 8th District, I am sure they will miss Rep John Tanner. Rep. Tanner has been serving the people of TN since Jan 3, 1989. I would like wish Rep. Tanner the best luck in his retirement after completing his last year as a United States Representative from Tennessee. For more about Rep Tanner please click here : http://www.house.gov/tanner/

To the people of the 8th District I believe Sen. Herron will represent you well. I can't wait to see the things he can accomplish along side Rep. Alan Grayson!

Obama Keeping His Campaign Promise

2009-12-02T00:18:00.003-06:00

President Obama is planning on sending 30,000 more troops to Afghanistan. If this SHOCKS you, then you were not paying attention!

I can't believe that people are surprised over this. As he campaigned he stated it repeatedly from the begining he would send more troops into Afghanistan. Do I agree with his choice? Not really. I want our troops home. I think at this point we are throwing good after bad, over and over and over. President Obama still seems to have hope to fix a war that 8 years pass due. I do not have this hope. His change seems to be from an Iraq War to Afghanistan War , instead of the much hoped for "no war". Though I do not agree with his decision, I do not think he betrayed or deceived his followers. He is doing exactly what he said he would do since 2007 when he was campaigning for the Democratic Nomination. Say you don't the choice, say you want the troops home, but don't say you weren't warned!

On August 1, 2007 Obama gave a speech at the Woodrow Wilson International Center. Sen Obama opens his speech with the first sentence containing 9/11. In fact, Obama used "9/11 " over 10 times and that is not including the references to NYC , the Twin Towers, or terrorist.
This at the time he was trying to sell himself as the "anti-war" candidate. Remember he didn't vote for Iraq War Resolution like Sen Clinton and Sen Edwards. Funny thing to that, he also was not in the position to vote for or against it, or even "present" as he was fond of doing in the Illinois Senate. The following excerpts are from that 2007 speech.

"And so, a little more than a year after that bright September day, I was in the streets of Chicago again, this time speaking at a rally in opposition to war in Iraq. I did not oppose all wars, I said. I was a strong supporter of the war in Afghanistan."

"It is time to turn the page. When I am President, we will wage the war that has to be won, with a comprehensive strategy with five elements: getting out of Iraq and on to the right battlefield in Afghanistan and Pakistan; developing the capabilities and partnerships we need to take out the terrorists and the world’s most deadly weapons; engaging the world to dry up support for terror and extremism; restoring our values; and securing a more resilient homeland.
The first step must be getting off the wrong battlefield in Iraq, and taking the fight to the terrorists in Afghanistan and Pakistan. "

"As President, I would deploy at least two additional brigades to Afghanistan to re-enforce our counter-terrorism operations and support NATO’s efforts against the Taliban. As we step up our commitment, our European friends must do the same, and without the burdensome restrictions that have hampered NATO’s efforts. We must also put more of an Afghan face on security by improving the training and equipping of the Afghan Army and Police, and including Afghan soldiers in U.S. and NATO operations. "

"We must not, however, repeat the mistakes of Iraq. The solution in Afghanistan is not just military – it is political and economic. As President, I would increase our non-military aid by $1 billion. " Yeah, I don't see that happening now. If we have an extra billion dollars laying around, he might want to spend it HERE!

"I understand that President Musharraf has his own challenges. But let me make this clear. There are terrorists holed up in those mountains who murdered 3,000 Americans. They are plotting to strike again. It was a terrible mistake to fail to act when we had a chance to take out an al Qaeda leadership meeting in 2005. If we have actionable intelligence about high-value terrorist targets and President Musharraf won’t act, we will. " Get it? Even in 2007 he was saying, he would not only fight in Afghanistan but would go into Pakistan!

To read the full speech from Aug 1, 2007 click here Obama's Speech at Woodrow Wilson Center - Council on Foreign Relations

Click here for this evening's speech http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/12/01/obama.afghanistan.speech.transcript/index.html

Tennessee Technological University PRIDE!!

2009-11-16T13:29:00.004-06:00

Image above: On the front row are Commander Charlie Hobaugh (left) and Pilot Barry Wilmore. On the back row (from left) are astronauts Leland Melvin, Mike Foreman, Robert Satcher and Randy Bresnik, all mission specialists. Image credit: NASA

My brother John and I are both graduates of TTU. TTU is located in Cookeville, TN and has one of the best Engineering programs in the nation. Needless to say I was quite happy when I recieved an invitation as a TTU Alumni to attend the shuttle launch because Barry "Butch" Wilmore is also a TTU Alumni! The only thing that could have made this day better is if he was wearing a purple and gold space suit!!!
Here's a little information about Mr. Wilmore:
EDUCATION: M.S. Electrical Engineering, Tennessee Technological University (TTU). M.S. Aviation Systems, University of Tennessee. B.S. Electrical Engineering, TTU. Mt. Juliet High School, Mt. Juliet, TN
SPECIAL HONORS: Air Medal (5), 3 with the Combat 'V' designation. Navy Commendation Medal (6), 3 of which also hold the Combat 'V' designation. Navy Achievement Medal (2) and numerous Unit decorations. Aviation Officer Candidate School (AOCS) “Distinguished Naval Graduate”. Initial Naval Flight Training “Commodores List With Distinction”. U.S. Atlantic Fleet “Light Attack Wing One - Pilot Of The Year” (1991). U.S. Atlantic Fleet "Strike Fighter Aviator of the Year" (1999). Recipient of the Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic “Scott Speicher Award” for Weapons Employment Excellence (1998). Tennessee Technological University “Sports Hall of Fame” - 2003 Inductee (Football).

NASA EXPERIENCE: Selected as a pilot by NASA in July 2000, Wilmore reported for training in August 2000. Following the completion of two years of training and evaluation, he was assigned technical duties representing the astronaut office on all propulsion systems issues including the space shuttle main engines, solid rocket motor, external tank, and also served on the astronaut support team that traveled to the Kennedy Space Center, Florida, in support of launch and landing operations. Wilmore has been assigned as pilot on the STS-129 crew. The mission is targeted for launch in November 2009, and will deliver two Express Logistics Carriers (ELC racks) to the International Space Station. The mission will also feature three spacewalks and will bring back to earth NASA Astronaut, Nicole Stott.

Michigan Militias???Seriously?

2009-11-16T13:07:00.002-06:00

My first reaction to this video is "What a bunch of crazies!". Then I had to watch it again and really listen to what these people were saying. The more I listened more angry I got with them. They talk about being worried when a democrat is president that they might lose their rights. That the Constitution will be destroyed. Are you kidding me? Where were these people during the 8 yrs of Bush & Co? I suppose they have NEVER heard of the Patriot Act let alone read it! What do they think of Bush's over 700 signing statements? Gee, I wonder what they would think if Obama had someone inflitrate their organization the way Bush had people in the anti-war groups. Oh what would they think of that? "As long as Republican does it, it is OK!" yeah that is probably what they would think. But if Obama were to do it they would probably shoot the person in the group.

You can read the full report from CNN here : Militias: Patriots or extremists? – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs

This is shameful!

2009-11-16T03:06:00.002-06:00

I just read an article from The Curvature regarding Rape Kits going untested. After a woman has been raped, goes to the hospital to be tested, is probed and prodded for a roughly 4 hr exam, and until 2009 has had to pay for these kits, they aren't sent off for months and even years??? What the hell?
Excuse me, if I am not kind in my words at this point but how can anyone look at these women and say testing this material wasn't that important? How do you look at the next woman raped by this man because they had no rush on find who he was? Why even bother if you aren't going to test the kit for 6 months to 8 yrs??? I am so sorry for those that actually do their job and do it well regarding this matter, because this has brought shame to the entire field. You can read the full story here: Rape Kits: Yes, Still Going Untested : The Curvature

Paula Deen

2009-11-16T01:16:00.002-06:00

Paula Deen will be signing her new book It Ain't All About the Cookin' at Costco in Nashville. My daughters and I had the great privilege of having dinner at her restaurant, The Lady and Sons, in Savannah, Georgia this July. Rosa, my 16 yr old , adores Paula Deen! I do believe she is going to be very surprised this Tuesday. I hope you can make it!

Where : Nashville West Costco

6670 Charlotte Pike

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday Nov. 17, 2009

More Info: Call 615-354-5100.

Herron Wins Again!

2009-11-15T19:16:00.002-06:00

Sullivan County Democratic Straw Poll was hosted on Nov. 14, 2009.
Herron campaign News Release is below:

Sen. Roy Herron (D-Dresden) decisively won the second Democratic straw poll in the race for Governor on Saturday. The poll was held at an event hosted by the Sullivan County Democratic Party in Blountville.

With his strong win in the first straw poll in Rutherford County, Sen. Herron has now won the first two Democratic straw polls by large margins.

"I am humbled and grateful to the voters of Sullivan County," Sen. Herron said. "The people here in northeast Tennessee are just like those I represent in middle and west Tennessee: hard-working, family-loving, God-fearing people. I'm grateful for their kindness to me today."

Sen. Herron received more than 57% of the votes cast and more than the other four candidates combined. Full results are below:

1. Sen. Roy Herron - 85

2. Mike McWherter - 20

3. Sen. Jim Kyle - 12

4. Ward Cammack - 11

5. Kim McMillan - 9

6. Undecided - 12

Video from the 1st Annual Rutherford County Grow Tennessee Straw Poll where Herron won. You can read about that straw poll here http://politicalfunny.blogspot.com/2009/09/1st-annual-rutherford-county-grow_20.html .

Feel Good Friday 11/13/09

2009-11-13T02:47:00.003-06:00

It is Feel Good Friday!! I could not think of a more deserving song this Friday. On Wednesday this song won "Song of the Year" at the CMA Award show. This was not easy, the competition had great songs as well. People are Crazy was definately a personal favorite. I am so happy it was nominated. A special "Thank You" to all of the song writers out there.

Ree Drummond ~The Pioneer Woman Cooks

2009-11-10T02:50:00.003-06:00

Ree Drummond is The Pioneer Woman. My sister found her web site around 2 years ago. Brenda isn't much for the cooking thing but, she loved this web site. So of course I had to check this out. I cook. I love cooking. Ree breaks everything down to the basics, the photos are great, and she talks to readers not at them or down to them. Everyone is on a level playing field in Ree's kitchen. It isn't easy teaching someone how to cook, it is a mix of science and art. To be able to do it online is amazing. I can't wait for her start posting videos! If you have not been to her site please click on this link The Pioneer Woman Cooks - Ree Drummond .
Ree has written a new book titled The Pioneer Woman Cooks: Recipes from an Accidental Country Girl. From the publisher :
My name is Ree.

Some folks know me as The Pioneer Woman.

After years of living in Los Angeles, I made a pit stop in my hometown in Oklahoma on the way to a new, exciting life in Chicago. It was during my stay at home that I met Marlboro Man, a mysterious cowboy with steely blue eyes and a muscular, work-honed body. A strict vegetarian, I fell hard and fast, and before I knew it we were married and living on his ranch in the middle of nowhere, taking care of animals, and managing a brood of four young children. I had no idea how I'd wound up there, but I knew it was exactly where I belonged.

"The Pioneer Woman Cooks" is a homespun collection of photography, rural stories, and scrumptious recipes that have defined my experience in the country. I share many of the delicious cowboy-tested recipes I've learned to make during my years as an accidental ranch wife--including Rib-Eye Steak with Whiskey Cream Sauce, Lasagna, Fried Chicken, Patsy's Blackberry Cobbler, and Cinnamon Rolls--not to mention several "cowgirl-friendly" dishes, such as Sherried Tomato Soup, Olive Cheese Bread, and CrEme BrUlEe. I show my recipes in full color, step-by-step detail, so it's as easy as pie to follow along.

You'll also find colorful images of rural life: cows, horses, country kids, and plenty of chaps-wearing cowboys.

I hope you get a kick out of this book of mine. I hope it makes you smile. I hope the recipes bring you recognition, accolades, and marriage proposals. And I hope it encourages even the most harried urban cook to slow down, relish the joys of family, nature, and great food, and enjoy life."

Are you ready for the BONUS????
Ree Drummond will be signing her book at Davis-Kidd Bookstore on Dec. 8, 2009 @ 7PM!!
Davis-Kidd Booksellers - Nashville
2121 Green Hills Village Dr
Nashville, TN 37215
(615) 385-2645

Rep Cooper Vs. Rep Gordon

2009-11-10T00:32:00.002-06:00

Yes, it is still all about the Health Care Reform Bill. I wanted to know how two Democrats from neighboring districts could vote opposite of each other on this bill. My Congressman, Bart Gordon, voted against this bill. But before he did that he voted yes to the Stupak Amendment. Why? If you are going to vote against the bill anyway, why vote to make sure that anti-choice amendment is put in it? Of course, because in 2010 you want to be able to tell the little republicans in your district that you didn't vote to fund abortions, as if they support you. How many Republican fundraisers were for you Congressman Gordon? Do you truly believe the majority of your backers, the ones that actually campaign for you, are republicans? If you believe that you aren't as bright as I thought you were. Some thing you might want to recognize is that if the republicans run someone against you, all that person needs to win are the republicans in this district and for a few us to NOT vote for you. You understand, since you didn't vote for us.
From Mr. Gordon's web site we get this pathetic reason for the no vote: “I firmly believe that any responsible health care bill must do two things: improve access to health care for small businesses and the uninsured, and reduce health care spending. This bill does one but not the other, it falls short of sufficiently cutting health care spending.” Now isn't that special! This is from the same man that voted FOR the Iraq Resolution (war vote). Gee, how much is that costing us? Where are those WMD?? We are going to be paying for that war and rebuilding that nation for years? But that was OK?? Mr. Gordon, do you even realize the health care cost associated with YOUR war vote?? Shame on you and your pathetic excuse for not voting for this bill!
If only I were in district 5 with Congressman Jim Cooper. Congressman Cooper voted for this health care reform bill while still recognizing its flaws.
From Congressman Cooper's web site: "My reason for voting yes is to advance the cause of health care reform by forcing the Senate to act. Without passage of this House bill, the Senate could delay reform indefinitely. That would be the worst possible outcome because our current health-care system is not sustainable. Congress needs to pass good health legislation in the next few months for the good of the country. "
Thank you Congressman Cooper for caring about the good of this country with this vote. I think if there was a serious financial problem with this bill, Congressman Cooper would have been yelling about it from the rooftops. In ending let me say this "Thank You Congressman Cooper from a fellow Tennessean".

Liberal

2009-11-09T02:09:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I was called a liberal, as if that was a bad thing! HA! Call me a liberal and I will gladly say "Thank You!". But this reminded me of a email I received several years ago and thought I would share with everyone today.

Joe Republican
Joe gets up at 6 a.m. and fills his coffeepot with water to prepare his morning coffee. The water is clean and good because some tree-hugging liberal fought for minimum water-quality standards.
With his first swallow of water, he takes his daily medication. His medications are safe to take because some stupid commie liberal fought to ensure their safety and that they work as advertised.
All but $10 of his medications are paid for by his employer's medical plan because some liberal union workers fought their employers for paid medical insurance - now Joe gets it too.
He prepares his morning breakfast, bacon and eggs. Joe's bacon is safe to eat because some girly-man liberal fought for laws to regulate the meat packing industry.
In the morning shower, Joe reaches for his shampoo. His bottle is properly labeled with each ingredient and its amount in the total contents because some crybaby liberal fought for his right to know what he was putting on his body and how much it contained.
Joe dresses, walks outside and takes a deep breath. The air he breathes is clean because some environmentalist wacko liberal fought for the laws to stop industries from polluting our air.
He walks on the government-provided sidewalk to subway station for his government-subsidized ride to work. It saves him considerable money in parking and transportation fees because some fancy-pants liberal fought for affordable public transportation, which gives everyone the opportunity to be a contributor.
Joe begins his work day. He has a good job with excellent pay, medical benefits, retirement, paid holidays and vacation because some lazy liberal union members fought and died for these working standards. Joe's employer pays these standards because Joe's employer doesn't want his employees to call the union.
If Joe is hurt on the job or becomes unemployed, he'll get a worker compensation or unemployment check because some stupid liberal didn't think he should lose his home because of his temporary misfortune.
It is noontime and Joe needs to make a bank deposit so he can pay some bills. Joe's deposit is federally insured by the FSLIC because some godless liberal wanted to protect Joe's money from unscrupulous bankers who ruined the banking system before the Great Depression.
Joe has to pay his Fannie Mae-underwritten mortgage and his below-market federal student loan because some elitist liberal decided that Joe and the government would be better off if he was educated and earned more money over his lifetime.
Joe also forgets that his in addition to his federally subsidized student loans, he attended a state funded university.
Joe is home from work. He plans to visit his father this evening at his farm home in the country. He gets in his car for the drive. His car is among the safest in the world because some America-hating liberal fought for car safety standards to go along with the tax-payer funded roads.
He arrives at his boyhood home. His was the third generation to live in the house financed by Farmers' Home Administration because bankers didn't want to make rural loans. The house didn't have electricity until some big-government liberal stuck his nose where it didn't belong and demanded rural electrification.
He is happy to see his father, who is now retired. His father lives on Social Security and a union pension because some wine-drinking, cheese-eating liberal made sure he could take care of himself so Joe wouldn't have to.
Joe gets back in his car for the ride home, and turns on a radio talk show. The radio host keeps saying that liberals are bad and conservatives are good. He doesn't mention that the beloved Republicans have fought against every protection and benefit Joe enjoys throughout his day. Joe agrees: "We don't need those big-government liberals ruining our lives! After all, I'm a self-made man who believes everyone should take care of themselves, just like I have."

It is just the begining

2009-11-09T02:07:00.001-06:00

Politics isn't for the faint of heart. It can become dirty, nasty, ugly, and down right disgusting. Politics can bring out the selfish, the greedy, the cheaters, the thieves, the liars, the users and the deceivers in full force.This Saturday evening we watched the House of Representatives pass the Health Care Reform Bill. http://docs.house.gov/rules/health/111_ahcaa.pdf Click there to read the bill. If you want to see how your representative voted you can click here Final Vote Results for Roll Call 887 .I am very happy this passed. It has been a long time coming with good people putting in long hours and their careers on the line. After a summer of town halls decrying "Socialism" here we are. If only that were the worst of it. The conversations I have had over the last week would be enough to make some one's skin crawl with the vitriol. It is enough to make one's stomach turn when listening to someone that has been on state funded health insurance for themselves and their kids complain about this health care bill being "socialized medicine." Yes, this person is definitely a hypocrite, and that is the nicest thing I can say at the moment.Most people know that this became a huge issue for me last year as I watched my Aunt Bobbie fight to get health care insurance and die because of a lack of it. I have recently been told "When it's your time to die that is God's decision and whether they have insurance or not won't make a difference." If this person actually believed this their family wouldn't be going to the doctor and hospital constantly, on the state funded health care insurance.I suppose some of these people will not understand until they lose someone they love, as I did. This where Politics can find Heroes. The ones that will fight to stop injustice, bring truth, and be honorable. Those that are virtuous, ethical, righteous, trustworthy, and sincere can also be found fighting for those less fortunate than themselves and often taking huge risk. We watched 220 Representatives vote for Health Care Reform , now we wait to see how many honorable Senators we have.

Feel Good Friday 10/23/09

2009-10-23T00:28:00.002-05:00

It is Feel Good Friday and I say FEEL THE LOVE!!! I was lucky enough to grow up this wonderful music playing in our home. This video is double even. Enjoy the sweet sounds of the Everly Brothers singing Bird Dog and Till I Kissed you.

Love to you and yours,
Idava

Bring Out Your Dead

2009-10-22T23:11:00.003-05:00

Names of the Dead

"Every year, more than 44,000 Americans die simply because they have no health insurance.

I have created this project in their memory. I hope that honoring them will help us end this senseless loss of American lives. If you have lost a loved one, please share the story of that loved one with us. Help us ensure that their legacy is a more just America, where every life that can be saved will be saved."

Rep. Alan Grayson (D) has created a web site for us to name our loved ones lost because they didn't have health insurance. Grayson has become a champion for those in need of health care insurance. But long before he gave the Republican health care plan, "Don't get sick, if you do get sick die quickly.", that launched him to center stage he was already a champion.

Grayson is an attorney that has spent the past few years fighting war profiteer and fraud from the Iraq War. Grayson has been described as "waging a one-man war against contractor fraud in Iraq" by a Wall Street Journal reporter.

He doesn't need to fight for health care, for those are in need. According to disclosure forms he has minimum net worth of $31.12 million. I think he does it because it is the right thing to do and he remembers when he didn't have a $31 million net worth.

Grayson grew up in the Bronx the son to teachers. As a child he was not in good health. He was taken to the hospital four times a week by his mother. He was lucky enough to have health care insurance, without it he would not be alive today. This is something Rep Gayson remembers.

Rep. Grayson was admitted to Harvard. But this was not an easy ride for him. Unlike others he not only earned his placement to Harvard but he also worked to help pay his tuition. He cleaned toliets, worked as night watchman, and still he earned his Bachelor's degree in only 3 years with honors.

Rep. Grayson is more than a member of Congress, he is our Champion.

The Zeitgeist Movement

2009-10-22T21:41:00.004-05:00

Trailor For Zeitgeist Movie

Zeitgeist - The Movie

I was asked to watched 2 movies by an old friend, Christa. The above video is a trailor for one of the movies. You can find them both at link above. She wanted to know my thoughts. So, I thought I would also share them here.

I would love to be able to say I was shocked but sadly I wasn't. In regards to 9/11 I have watched so much on that, and still have unanswered questions. Like, how is it we have video of a plane landing on the Hudson River, remember Capt Sully, but no video of a plane hitting the pentagon? I am happy it showed it WTC 7. Do you realize how many Americans are still clueless that building 7 fell , let alone that it feel after 5 pm? There is a lot of information out there. I remember Conyers holding hearings in the basement of Congress, but now, nothing. That pisses me off. If you notice, people of New York where 9/11 happened, did not vote for Bush in 2004. They knew. My friends up there are still angry, as everyone else should have been.
Regarding Religion I have always viewed organized religion as easy mind control. That the seperation of church and state was to protect the STATE from the church influence not the other way around.
I loved , loved seeing John Perkins on the addendum. I told you he was awesome. We grow up thinking, believing that everything our Nation does, knowing that it does so in our name, is honorable. Finding out otherwise for many is quite heartbreaking. The stages they go through , remind of the 5 stages of grief. Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Sadness and Acceptance we have to remember this when people get pissed off after hearing the truth. No one likes being played for a fool and that is one the first things that crosses their minds.
It was nice to see this compilation of different videos. I had seen some of them seperately. I think I will have my kids and Sean watch it this weekend.

Glenn Beck's program 10/19/09

2009-10-20T15:49:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I made a deal with a friend. Trust me I was on the losing end of this deal to begin with. But I am a fair person and never mind listening to the other side. On occasion I have been known to play "Devil's Advocate" simply out of boredom. So here is the deal he had to watch a video of mine as a liberal and I had to watch Glenn Beck's Program. My video was Gordon Sinclair's report The Americans. My friend, John, LOVED it. Now, he asked that I try to be unbiased about Beck's program. I tried. Here is the report I sent to my dear friend. Though our politics are different he is my friend.

John,

I kept my word and I watched his program. You have to remember I like consistency, and hypocrisy tends to upset me.

So let's break this down. Within the first 10 minutes of the program Beck admits that he is not a journalist. That he is simply giving his perspective. After that he was saying that the White House was not treating Fox fairly. I don't recall him (at CNN at the time) or anyone else at Fox complaining that the previous administration was not fair to MSNBC. I think news stations should be able to ask questions at press conferences and just as I would have loved to have seen Bush on Countdown , I think Obama should go on Shepard Smith's show. Why Shepard? Because so far, he is the only one over there I still respect. Sadly though, I have not watched him awhile.

Now he wants everyone to ask questions, to be bold. Ask why? Why? WHY? I think we should ask why. We should ask questions no matter what party is in power. But now I must ask where were the questions from Beck regarding The Patriot Act, Blackwater, Warrant less Wiretaps, US Customs agents having the right to examine ALL electronic equipment AND keep this private informatiosn, Sec. Bakker representing the Saudi Royals in a law suit against 9/11 families, our military not having proper equipment, Jack Abramoff, Jeff Gannon/Jim Guckert, 2 of Bush's relatives (brother Jeb and Cousin George) working for Lehman Bros. , the cost of the Iraq War, the Wolfowitz Doctrine, the Carlyle Group, or Brandon Mayfield .

Next he wants everyone to know that Free Speech is gone. I don't recall him complaining about Free Speech Zones during the last 8 years. If you spoke out against President Bush or his Policies you were considered unpatriotic and un American. He didn't seem to mind it then. Where is the consistency??
Now he is discussing Anita Dunn. It seems at a High School Ms. Dunn mentioned she liked the politics of Mao and Mother Teresa. He makes his point over and over and over about how horrible it was that she mentioned Mao. Yet he never mentions that Bush so liked Mao he read his biography and then told Rove he should also read it.

Beck is now discussing volunteering for service organizations. It appears that Obama would like people to volunteer in their community. Beck seems to think that inspiring service is a bad thing. The Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) harnesses the collective power of the entertainment industry and channels its unique assets to raise awareness and funds for critical health, educational and social issues in order to make a positive impact in our community and throughout the nation. The EIF has helped many organizations including Boys and Girls Club, Stand up to Cancer, Key to the Cure and Diabetes Aware. Beck is Outraged that the EIF has gotten ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX to join together for 1 week to do programs that highlight community service. Remember community service is helping the Red Cross, a local food bank, the homeless shelter, the USO, Toys for Tots, Habitat for Humanity,The Angel Tree, etc. Yes, these organizations may actually get a little publicity or new volunteers.

According to Beck Free Speech is gone. I remember Free Speech Zones under Bush. He didn't seem to mind then. Free speech zones were commonly used by President George W Bush. Free speech zones were set up by the Secret Service, who scouted locations where the U.S. president was scheduled to speak, or pass through. Officials targeted those who carried anti-Bush signs and escorted them to the free speech zones prior to and during the event. Reporters were often barred by local officials from displaying these protesters on camera or speaking to them within the zone. Protesters who refused to go to the free speech zone were often arrested and charged with trespassing , disorderly conduct and/or resisting arrest.

Beck now wants to discuss Net Neutrality, but then he just goes back to the choice is either Freedom of Speech or Big Government. As a guest ,he brings on Phil Kerpen. Mr. Kerpen is of course for Freedom of Speech and stopping our big government from taking it away. Read what was posted above about Free Speech Zones. Mr. Kerpen is director of policy for Americans for Prosperity, as well as a contributing editor for National Review Online, a Fox Forum contributor on FoxNews.com, and chairman of the Internet Freedom Coalition. After the show, I decided to check out Mr. Kerpen, since it appeared that Beck endorsed this man. This is the first paragraph on his web site ( http://www.philkerpen.com/ )

"With trillions of dollars of bailouts, feckless stimulus spending, government takeovers of private industries and horrifying long-range deficits, the radical left has amply demonstrated that it runs the show in President Obama's Washington, and it's making the place a laughingstock."

Wow. Needless to say, after reading that I know this man does not care too much for facts. Obviously by Beck having him on his show, neither does he. Because we all know that the Bank Bailouts were in Oct of 2008 (Bush was President), the insurance bailouts were in Sept of 2008 ( Bush was President), Auto bailouts were Dec of 2008 (Bush was President), Stimulus spending (from May 2001 through 2008 there were stimulus checks sent out and Bush was President), government take overs of private industries ( 9 Banks were certainly nationalized in Oct of 2008 and Bush was President), horrifying long-range deficits (from 2002-2008 and Bush was President) and now I love how this little inept man blames all of that on the radical left and President Obama.

Lastly , Glenn Beck is still hiding some huge mystery behind the blue curtain. Reminds me of the Wizard of Oz.

The conclusion for me is that Mr.Beck has a very skewed perspective on things. A view that I personally find lacks reason, logic, and consistency. I think he is very disingenuous. I do not think he is stupid or dumb, on the contrary I think he knows exactly what he is doing. Perhaps that is why it bothers me even more. Now, that is just my perspective.

Feel Good Friday 10/16/09

2009-10-16T20:08:00.003-05:00

It is a Feel Good Friday!!!! I hope everyone loves this song as much as do. It is kind of how I do things. Knowing I will get there no matter what, step by step, one by one climbing Jacob's Ladder. Love Huey Lewis and the News!! My Aunt Pole and her husband Jim took me see them in concert in Paso Robles, Ca. Great Times!!

Repeal Their Antitrust Exemption !!!

2009-10-15T09:29:00.002-05:00

TWO DAYS AFTER HEALTH INSURANCE LOBBY TRIED TO SUCKER-PUNCH HEALTH CARE REFORM EFFORT ...
SCHUMER: REVOKE HEALTH INSURANCE INDUSTRY'S ANTITRUST EXEMPTION AS PART OF HEALTH CARE OVERHAUL

Under 1945 Law, Insurance Industry Among Only Handful Of Industries—Like Major League Baseball and Railroads—To Be Exempt From Federal Antitrust Laws Schumer Says Industry's Special Status Should End In Order To Bring Greater Competition To Marketplace; Calls For Floor Amendment To Health Care Reform BillAmendment Should Be Based On Senator Leahy's Bill That Is Focus of Senate Judiciary Committee Hearing Today

WASHINGTON, DC—Days after the health insurance industry openly declared it will use the emerging health care reform overhaul as an excuse to raise premiums on millions of Americans, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer (D-NY) urged Wednesday that the legislation should include a new provision to revoke the industry’s anti-trust exemption.

By virtue of the McCarran-Ferguson Act, passed by Congress in 1945, the insurance industry is one of only a handful of select industries in the United States, such as Major League Baseball and railroads, to be exempted from federal antitrust laws. Schumer, a co-sponsor of a bill authored by Senate Judiciary Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) to repeal the exemption, said the health insurance industry should lose its special status as part of the landmark health care bill scheduled to reach President Obama’s desk later this year.

“The health insurance’s antitrust exemption is one of the worst accidents of American history. It deserves a lot of the blame for the huge rise in premiums that has made health insurance so unaffordable. It is time to end this special status and bring true competition to the health insurance industry,” Schumer said.

Schumer called for attaching a floor amendment to the health care bill that Majority Leader Harry Reid plans to bring to the floor later this month. Schumer said the amendment should be based on Leahy’s legislation.

Schumer made this declaration a day after the Senate Finance Committee approved a milestone health care bill by a bipartisan vote of 14-9. On the eve of that vote, the health insurance industry launched an eleventh-hour broadside against the reform effort in an effort to sink its chances. On Monday, the health insurers’ trade association, America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) issued a flawed report that attempted to show that the emerging bill would force health insurers to raise premiums on their customers much more than they otherwise would. Soon after the report’s issuance, the company that developed it on behalf of AHIP acknowledged that it did not include the bill’s many cost-saving measures in its analysis.

Throughout the debate on health care reform, Schumer has been a lead proponent of a public option that would lower health care costs by competing alongside private insurers. The public option would put patients ahead of profits; unlike private insurers, it would have no profit motive whatsoever and would have greatly reduced marketing costs. Private health insurers have scorned the prospect of just such a new competitor.

While the fight for a public option continues, Schumer said Wednesday that the health care reform bill should also seek to impose competition on other ways, like repealing their antitrust exemption. The McCarran-Ferguson Act was enacted in 1945 to protect the insurance industry after the Supreme Court ruled that it was subject to federal regulation under the Constitution’s Commerce Clause. The legislation ceded oversight over the insurance industry to states by exempting the so-called “business of insurance” from federal laws. A repeal of McCarran-Ferguson would have the effect of restoring the federal government’s power to curtail price-fixing, collusion and other anti-competitive practices that may exist within the health insurance industry.

Tennessee Economic Council on Women

2009-10-15T02:16:00.004-05:00

The Tennessee Economic Summit for Women, presented by the Women's Economic Council Foundation, Inc. and the Tennessee Economic Council on Women, began in 2004 with the goal of helping the women of Tennessee to become economically self-sufficient.
Since 2004, thousands of women have gathered at the annual event to hear expert speakers discuss women's economic issues such as medical costs, financial planning and literacy, business ownership and development and political participation. Speakers have included Patricia Schroeder, Marie Wilson, Sandra Day O'Connor, Robin Gerber, Helen Thomas, Gail Evans and Governor Phil Bredesen.
In 2009, the tradition of offering excellent and timely information and the opportunity to meet and network with the most dynamic women in Tennessee will continue. Join us for a day of motivation, appreciation and elevation as we continue to move ourselves, our family and our communities forward.

For more information please go to :
http://www.womenseconomicfoundation.org/

Tennessee Technological University

2009-10-15T01:22:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: Jerred Griggs, 20, of Sparta was placed under arrest Wednesday evening. Police say Griggs brought the two victims to the campus where they met Brown, who reported he was staying with a student there. He gained access to the residence hall by using a TTU student’s stolen identification card. Brown took one person into the laundry room of Dunn Hall and robbed him there, then tried to rob the other person outside. TTU police say he and Griggs conspired to commit the robbery together. The incident was drug-related.

My brother and I both attended TTU. I can say honestly those were really great years in my life. It was a time of knowledge, not just from books but from living life. Going to college opens so many doors that I had never even thought of. I look back at my time at TTU with appreciation and a smile. So I must say I was truly disheartened to receive this message yesterday morning:

Tennessee Tech University FROM TTUNEWS: Possible armed robbery in Cooper/Dunn Res Hall. Officers are on-scene. Students in Capital Quad remain in room until further notice. Everyone else avoid the area.Wednesday at 7:49am ·

Sadly the first thing that goes through my mind was "Please, let it stop there. Don't let this be like Virgina Tech."

Tennessee Tech University TTUNEWS: Following the report of a possible armed robbery in Cooper/Dunn residence hall this morning, students remain locked down in Capital Quad. No shots have been fired. No injuries have been reported. TTU police are urging everyone to avoid the area around the quad while the search continues. Report any concerns or suspicious activity to campus police at 372-3234.

I was so thankful reading that no shots had been fired and no one was injured. Friends of mine were posting comments wondering if TTU , the place they went to, would still be safe our children. I hope so.

Tennessee Tech University TTUNEWS: University police have a person in custody related to the reported armed robbery this morning in Dunn Hall. The lock down has been lifted from Capital Quad. Wednesday at 8:58am ·

This appears to be a drug deal gone bad. Darrion Jerome Brown, 19 , of Nashville has been arrested. Police claim that Brown met with another person in the laundry room of Dunn Hall to buy drugs and that instead, he made the other person give him “all the money and the drugs.” Now, if this is completely true then I do not have a lot of sympathy for the "victims" either. You want buy/sell illegal drugs, do it at your own house and stay away from schools!!! At least that might decrease the chance of your actions effecting other people's lives. How many students and parents were worried sick over this?? I hope they all go to jail!

Tennesse Ghost

2009-10-14T19:51:00.003-05:00

Jim O'Rear will sign and discuss his book, Tennessee Ghosts

Saturday October 24, 2009 1:00 PM

Opry Mills Mall
Barnes and Nobles
515 Opry Mills Drive, Nashville, TN 37214
615-514-5000

Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee

2009-10-14T19:32:00.002-05:00

Today, Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is one of the largest and most comprehensive of over 200 food banks and food distribution centers nationwide. During the 2006/2007 fiscal year, Second Harvest distributed more than 37.4 million pounds of food to hungry men, women, and children. Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee was named 2003 Affiliate of the Year by America's Second Harvest. The Food Bank is proud to share this prestigious award with the thousands of supporters and leaders who have supported Second Harvest over the past 30 years.

Second Harvest’s vision of ending hunger is more important than ever. Hunger is a big problem, and it cannot be solved without everyone’s help. There are 35 million Americans deemed by the government to be food insecure, and there are more than 8 million children receiving food assistance. One in five people in a soup kitchen line is now a child. In Middle Tennessee alone, 47% of the people Second Harvest serves are children.

If you or someone you know is in need of emergency food assistance, Second Harvest can help. Please call 615. 329. 3491, and we will direct you to an Emergency Food Box site near you.

http://www.secondharvestmidtn.org/

If you can donate food, money , or you time PLEASE go their site. We can make a difference.

Michael Moore

2009-10-10T17:37:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Michael Moore put out an open letter to President Obama regarding the announcement of President Obama being chosen the for the Nobel Peace Prize. The letter was titled "Congratulations President Obama on the Nobel Peace Prize -- Now Please Earn it!". I thought this letter was written in hast. Mr. Moore was obviously caught up in the moment. Today, he posted a new letter. This one he put thought into and I can stand behind it.
Here is the letter he posted today:

Get Off Obama's Back ...second thoughts from Michael Moore

Friends,

Last night my wife asked me if I thought I was a little too hard on Obama in my letter yesterday congratulating him on his Nobel Prize. "No, I don't think so," I replied. I thought it was important to remind him he's now conducting the two wars he's inherited. "Yeah," she said, "but to tell him, 'Now earn it!'? Give the guy a break -- this is a great day for him and for all of us."

I went back and re-read what I had written. And I listened for far too long yesterday to the right wing hate machine who did what they could to crap all over Barack's big day. Did I -- and others on the left -- do the same?

We are weary, weary of war. The trillions that will have gone to these two wars have helped to bankrupt us as a nation -- financially and morally. To think of all the good we could have done with all that money! Two months of the War in Iraq would pay for all the wells that need to be dug in the Third World for drinking water! Obama is moving too slow for most of us -- but he needs to know we are with him and we stand beside him as he attempts to turn eight years of sheer madness around. Who could do that in nine months? Superman? Thor? Mitch McConnell?

Instead of waiting to see what the president is going to do, we all need to be pro-active and push the agenda that we want to see enacted. What keeps us from forming the same local groups we put together to get out the vote last November? C'mon! We're the majority now -- the majority by a significant margin! We call the shots -- and we need to tell this wimpy Congress to get busy and do what we say -- or else.

All I ask of those who voted for Obama is to not pile on him too quickly. Yes, make your voice heard (his phone number is 202-456-1414). But don't abandon the best hope we've had in our lifetime for change. And for God's sake, don't head to bummerville if he says or does something we don't like. Do you ever see Republicans behave that way? I mean, the Right had 20 years of Republican presidents and they still couldn't get prayer in the public schools, or outlaw abortion, or initiate a flat tax or put our Social Security into the stock market. They did a lot of damage, no doubt about that, but on the key issues that the Christian Right fought for, they came up nearly empty handed. No wonder they've been driven crazy lately. They'll never have it as good again as they've had it since Reagan took office.

But -- do you ever see them looking all gloomy and defeated? No! They keep on fighting! Every day. Our side? At the first sign of wavering, we just pack up our toys and go home.

So, at least for this weekend, let us celebrate what people elsewhere are celebrating -- that America now has a sane and smart man in the White House, a man who truly wants a world at peace for his two daughters.

Many, for the past couple days (yes, myself included), have grumbled, "What has he done to earn this prize?" How 'bout this:

The simple fact that he was elected was reason enough for him to be the recipient of this year's Nobel Peace Prize.

Because on that day the murderous actions of the Bush/Cheney years were totally and thoroughly rebuked. One man -- a man who opposed the War in Iraq from the beginning -- offered to end the insanity. The world has stood by in utter horror for the past eight years as they watched the descendants of Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson light the fuse of our own self-destruction. We flipped off the nations on this planet by abandoning Kyoto and then proceeded to melt eight more years worth of the polar ice caps. We invaded two nations that didn't attack us, failed to find the real terrorists and, in effect, ignited our own wave of terror. People all over the world wondered if we had gone mad.

And if all that wasn't enough, the outgoing Joker presided over the worst global financial collapse since the Great Depression.

So, yeah, at precisely 11:00pm ET on November 4, 2008, Barack Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. And the 66 million people who voted for him won it, too. By the time he took the stage at midnight ET in the Grant Park Historic Hippie Battlefield in downtown Chicago, billions of people around the globe were already breathing a huge sigh of relief. It was as if, in that instant, one man did bring the promise of peace to the world -- and most were ready to go wherever he wanted to go to achieve that end. Never before had the election of one man made every other nation feel like they had won, too. When you've got billions of people ready, willing and able to join a cause like this, well, a prize in Oslo is the least that you deserve.

One other thought. The Peace Prize historically has been given to those who have worked to throw off the yoke of racial discrimination and segregation (Martin Luther King, Jr., Desmond Tutu). I think the Nobel committee, in awarding Obama the prize, was also rewarding the fact that something profound had happened in a nation that was founded on racial genocide, built on racist slavery, and held back for a hundred-plus years by vestiges of hateful bigotry (which can still be found on display at teabagger rallies and daily talk radio). The fact that this one man could cause this seismic historical event to occur -- and to do so with such grace and humility, never succumbing to the bait, but still not backing down (yes, he asked to be sworn in as "Barack Hussein Obama"!) -- is more than reason enough he should be in Oslo to meet the King on December 10. Maybe he could take us along with him. 'Cause I also suspect the Nobel committee was tipping its hat to all of us -- we, the American people, had conquered some of our racism and did the truly unexpected. After seeing searing images of our black fellow citizens left to drown in New Orleans -- and poor whites seeing their own treated no better than the black man they had been raised to hate -- we had all seen enough. It was time for change.

Thank you, Barack Obama, for giving us the opportunity to redeem ourselves. Now for the tasks ahead. We need you to do all that you promised to do. We need it. The world needs it.

My prediction for the future? You become the first *two-time* winner of the Nobel Peace Prize! Yeah!

Fred (that's Norwegian for "Peace"),
Michael Moore
MMFlint@aol.com
MichaelMoore.com

Get Off Obama's Back ...second thoughts from Michael Moore MichaelMoore.com

President Obama's Comments Regarding the Nobel Peace Prize

2009-10-09T12:06:00.003-05:00

President Obama gave a very humble speech today. I think our nation can achieve all the greatness this world has to offer.In doing so we must be a responsible nation, a respected nation. There is a difference between fearing a nation and respecting it. I hope we become the latter once again.

President Obama Nobel Peace Prize Winner

2009-10-09T04:34:00.003-05:00

Normally, I do not post on Friday except for the Feel Good Friday video. That being said , this is a very special moment. The President of the United States of America, President Barack Obama has been chosen the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize! Yes, I am proud!

From wikipedia:

The Nobel Peace Prize (Swedish, Danish and Norwegian: Nobels fredspris) is one of five Nobel Prizes bequeathed by the Swedish industrialist and inventor Alfred Nobel. According to Nobel's will, the Peace Prize should be awarded "to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses."

Alfred Nobel's will stated that the prize should be awarded by a committee of five people elected by the Norwegian Parliament. Norway and Sweden were at that time still in union, and with Sweden responsible for all foreign policy, Nobel felt that the prize might be less subject to political corruption if awarded by Norway. The Peace Prize is presented annually in Oslo, in the presence of the king, on December 10 (the anniversary of Nobel's death), and is the only Nobel Prize not presented in Stockholm. "In Oslo, the Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee presents the Nobel Peace Prize in the presence of the King of Norway. Under the eyes of a watching world, the Nobel Laureate receives three things: a diploma, a medal and a document confirming the prize amount."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nobel_Peace_Prize

Feel Good Friday 10/09/2009

2009-10-09T01:17:00.002-05:00

James Marsters has a very clean pure sound. I find peace in this song. This is the music you want to fall asleep to and hear first thing when you wake up.

Michael Vick

2009-10-08T00:11:00.002-05:00

I didn't write anything about Michael Vick the football player. Nor did I write about Michael Vick the dog fighter. But now, Michael Vick the convict with the Reality TV Show, yeah that has to be mentioned. It is sad that we reward bad behavior in this nation. I wonder who the commercial sponsors of this show will be, Alpo? Probably not.

BET's new entertainment boss, Loretha Jones, said the Vick project was consistent with the network's new strategy of emphasizing "family values, cultural uplift and community pride."

http://www.dailyfinance.com/2009/10/07/who-needs-nike-michael-vick-to-star-in-his-own-reality-show/?icid=mainhtmlws-maindl4link6http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailyfinance.com%2F2009%2F10%2F07%2Fwho-needs-nike-michael-vick-to-star-in-his-own-reality-show%2F

Happy Birthday to ME 2009!!!

2009-10-06T02:42:00.003-05:00

Today I turn 39 years old. What is the best way to measure how those years have been spent? How much stuff I own? Where I live? My education? My bank account? Who've I met? Who I know? How much I have traveled? No. Those just are not good enough measurements for me. I think prefer the standard of how much I have loved and have been loved. By that measurement I have lived a very blessed life. I have always known that help was no more than a phone call away. At the other end of that phone was someone who loved me and would help me no matter what, because I was family. Brenda (my sister) and her husband Pete drove all night to move me from another state back home no questions asked. John ( my brother) and his wife Teresa who let me live at their home. My nieces and nephews that have helped me with everything from cleaning my house, moving, cooking, taking my kids to cheer practice, going to my kids games and competitions. My Uncle Johnny for baking me cookies even when he was supposed to be a big tough guy. My Aunt Pole for laying down all of her credit cards when I was in the hospital because she thought I could get better care. My Aunt Bob for laughing whenever I was in deep shit trouble and just saying "that's the Bob in her coming out". My Grandma, whom I am named after for telling dirty jokes and making me smile. Sean, my husband, who has stood by through everything, putting his happiness second to mine. My wonderful daughters Rosa and Seanna that have shown such strength and character , I could not be more proud. My Mom and Dad that have always put my needs, even my wants, before their own. They stood by me my entire life. Not leaving my side when I was in the hospital and holding my baby when I wasn't able to so she would know she was loved.
So, how will I spend my birthday today? I will spend it as I have spent the last 39 years of my life surrounded by love and my family. That is truly the best gift there is.

Happy Birthday Pole!!

2009-10-05T02:03:00.002-05:00

Today is my Aunt's birthday. No, Pole isn't her real name it is her nickname. My family is HUGE on nicknames. Everyone has one, or two. Her "real" name is Shirley. However I have never called her that in my entire life. Anyway, today is her birthday and I hope she has a very happy birthday.

Want to meet the Gov of the TN??

2009-10-03T02:03:00.003-05:00

Hello Democrats. Please join us for a Meet and Greet with Ty Cobb, Democratic Candidate for House District 62 and Governor Bredesen on Saturday, October 3rd from 5pm - 7pm in Shelbyville, TN.

There will be live music and plenty of Fish and Chili. Come out and get to know Ty and learn how you can get involved to help Keep 62 Blue!

If you can join us for canvassing earlier in the day please sign up District 62 Special Election Phone Banks & Canvassing

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information go here Ty Cobb Fish Fry with Governor Bredesen - Tennessee Democratic Party .

Feel Good Friday 10/02/09

2009-10-02T03:43:00.002-05:00

I spent yesterday with my best friend, Angela. She had been in the hospital for a week with the flu, asthma, and pneumonia. I am not a morning person, but for her well I was in Cookeville by 9 am. I offered my services ready to wait on her hand and foot, which she laughed at!! The best part, besides just spending the day with her and later seeing her mom, was when she played the ringtone of her cell phone. When I call her this is the song that plays on her phone. How cool is that? I hope everyone else likes it as much as I do.

Amber Alert

2009-09-30T08:06:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: Seven-day-old Yair Anthony Carillo was found in a home in Ardmore, AL at approximately 10:00 PM after investigators located the suspect involved in the Tuesday attack. Authorities currently have 39-year-old Tammy Renee Silas, of Ardmore, AL in custody for the attack of Maria Gurrolla and abduction of Yair Carillo, charges against Silas are pending. For more information

Kidnapped infant Yair Carillo recovered in Alabama - WKRN, Nashville, Tennessee News, Weather, and Sports
Missing From:
Nashville, TN
Missing Date:
9/29/2009 12:00 AM
Contact:
Metropolitan Nashville Police Department615-862-8600
Circumstances:
A TN Statewide AMBER Alert has been activated by the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department for 4 day old Yair Anthony Carrillo. The child was taken by a white female who was posing as an immigration worker. She had come to the residence and demanded the mother give her the baby. When the mother refused to comply she stabbed the mother approximately 8 times. If you have seen the suspect, vehicle or child, please contact the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department at 615-862-8600 or TBI at 1-800-TBI-FIND.
Missing Child

Name: Yair Anthony Carrillo
Hair Color: Black
Eye Color: Brown
Skin Color: Hispanic
Age: 4daysold
Gender: Male
Description: The child was last seen wearing a blue and white striped onesie.
Suspect
Name: Unknown Unknown
Hair Color: Blonde
Skin Color: White
Age: 30YO
Height: 5FT4
Weight: Heavyset
Gender: Female
Description: The suspect's hair is pulled back into a pony tail. She was last seen wearing a black shirt and blue jeans.Vehicle Information
Color: Black
Vehicle: 4doorsedan
Description: The vehicle was described as looking like a police car.

USA, We're # 37 !!!

2009-09-28T22:08:00.002-05:00

Paul Hipp has done an amazing job here. You can go to his web site to purchase his music www.paulhipp.com. He also has more videos on youtube.com

Opry Goes Pink

2009-09-28T13:03:00.002-05:00

The Grand Ole Opry is joining the fight against breast cancer by “going pink” during two Opry performances Friday, October 2. On each of the night’s shows, Opry superstar Carrie Underwood will take the stage to “flip the switch,” turning the Opry’s signature barn backdrop pink in support of the groups Women Rock for the Cure and Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. The shows will also include performances from Underwood, Terri Clark, Mindy Smith, and other artists to be announced as well as special activities recognizing breast cancer survivors and the continuing fight against the disease. Tickets and packages may be purchased by calling (800) SEE-OPRY. Grand Ole Opry : Press Release

Joshua DuBois

2009-09-27T23:22:00.003-05:00

Joshua DuBois, the Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships, will speak at Belmont University. A Pentecostal minister, DuBois joined President Barack Obama's staff as a Senate aid and later directed the religious outreach for his presidential campaign. Dubois was announced as director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships on Feb. 5, 2009. The office has a four-point focus on economic recovery, abortion reduction, responsible fatherhood and interfaith relations. DuBois received his undergraduate degree from Boston University and a master's degree in public affairs from Princeton. The event is free and open to the public.

Date:
September 30, 2009

Time:
Wednesday 10:00am

Location:
Belmont University - Massey Performing Arts Center (MPAC)

1900 Belmont Blvd. Nashville, TN 37212

Contact:
Benita Walker (benita.walker@belmont.edu)

Rep Carolyn Maloney of NY's 14th District

2009-09-26T23:47:00.002-05:00

Clifton Maloney, the husband of U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney ,has died on a mountain climbing expedition in the Himalayas. He was resting in a high-altitude camp after a successful ascent to the summit of the world's sixth-highest mountain when he died.Carolyn and Clifton Maloney married in 1976. He is survived by hiswife, two daughters, his mother, his sister and nine nieces and nephews.

Please keep this family in your prayers.

Make it Blue Monday

2009-09-26T02:28:00.003-05:00

The Williamson County Democratic Party is hosting "Make it Blue Monday".
The event is to be held at Kimbro's Cafe. Tennessee Democratic Party Chairman Chip Forrester is the keynote speaker. Music is to be provided by James House and Todd Sharp.

Kimbro's Cafe
214 S. Margin Street
Franklin, TN

214 S. Margin Street franklin, tn 37064 - Google Maps

Sept. 28, 2009
6:00PM- 9:00PM
Suggested door donation: $20

Feel Good Friday 09/25/09

2009-09-25T03:04:00.002-05:00

It is Feel Good Friday. I love this song by REO Speedwagon, Time For Me To Fly.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

CATS!

2009-09-24T01:11:00.003-05:00

In 1986 I went with the Drama Group from my high school to Los Angeles. We watched CATS the Shubert Theater. It was beautiful and I will remember it always. Several years back CATS came to TPAC. I thought "Wow! I can take my husband to see this beautiful musical!". I had truly never thought it would come here. He loved it! So, what could make it better? In January of 2007 we were able to take our daughters to this wonderful musical. They loved it so much. Even still they watch the DVD. Now they have passed on the love of theater to my great-niece, Lucy. She spent the night at my house and Rosa was watching CATS. Lucy was mezmorized! She wanted to be a cat. We try to make wishes come true, even if only for a moment. So my daughters got out the Halloween make-up and 3 of them became CATS!

And for those that have not seen CATS here is my favorite part...

Charity

2009-09-23T06:30:00.003-05:00

Many people forget that in these tough times, when we think we have it hard, there many more that have it much worse. For that reason I have decided to make Wednesdays "Charity Day". I will focus on a different charity each Wednesday. It is my Mathew 25:31-46 section. As I posted before on this blog, that is my favorite part of the Bible. We should always remember and take care of "the least among us".

Ronald McDonald House of Nashville

"The Ronald McDonald House in Nashville, open since July 1991, is a home providing hot meals, laundry facilities and a place to rest. It has all the benefits of a house, such as a playroom, library and 2 kitchens. More importantly, the Ronald McDonald House provides an environment of emotional support from staff members, volunteers and other families who are going through similar circumstances.

Since the House opened, over 10,000 families have stayed at the Ronald McDonald House in Nashville. In 2008 more than 500 families were served. These families came from all of Tennessee’s 95 counties, 65 counties in Kentucky, as well as 39 other states, two territories and 12 foreign countries.

The Nashville House requests that families pay $15 per night. However, the primary goal is to keep these families together, so we never refuse service because a family is unable to pay. In 2008, 67% could not afford to pay anything and 10% paid only a partial fee. The average monthly occupancy in 2008 was 100%, the average daily waiting list consisted of 6 families and the average length of stay was 19 nights."

To read more and donate please go to http://www.rmhcnashville.com/

F.O.D. Protect Insurance Companies

2009-09-22T19:48:00.002-05:00

Protect Insurance Companies PSA from Will Ferrell

What more can I add to this great video? Will Ferrell should get an Oscar!! I love the part regarding the child falling off the bike. We have a rule at my house "We don't go to the hospital for stupid!". This video is too good!!

Mad as Hell Doctors

2009-09-21T00:18:00.002-05:00

Today the Mad as Hell Doctors will be in Nashville.

Hospital Corporation of America
Charlotte Ave & 25th Ave. S.

5:00pm
From the web site :
Mad as Hell
You CAN handle the Truth
There's no nice way to say it. The financial cost of health care is killing our citizens, hobbling our economy, crushing small business, and threatening the solvency of our government. In the meantime, the Health Care Industry is spending almost two million dollars a day lobbying Congress and manipulating public opinion to accept “reform” legislation that leaves a vicious, for-profit system intact. The "public option" is a trap. We need real reform that finds immediate savings, controls costs, and accomplishes the moral imperative of true Universal Access. A Single Payer plan is the only real path to a Health Care System that is socially, ethically and fiscally responsible. And yet, our elected officials refuse to even discuss the possibility of a Single Payer plan!
If that doesn't make you mad, we recommend checking your pulse.

http://www.madashelldoctors.com/

Please, if you can attend this event it is vital. We need health care for all Americans. It is a right not a privilege. Anyone that disagrees with this should also know that at one time, education was ONLY for wealthy men. Education was a privilege. So, if you have a public education k-12 and/or a degree from a PUBLIC university then you are a product of a battle that someone else raged saying Education is a RIGHT not a privilege! Now, you need to take that education and step up to help others obtain a RIGHT that is not just a privilege for the privileged few!!!

1st Annual Rutherford County Grow Tennessee

2009-09-20T15:06:00.007-05:00

Last evening I attended the 1st Annual Rutherford County Grow Tennessee dinner. What a great event hosted by Rep. Kent & Cecil Coleman, Rep. John & Marilyn Hood, Sen. Andy & Cherry Womack, and Ms. Sandra Y. Trail and held at MTSU's James Union Building. I truly must commend Jonathon Fagan, Chairman of the Rutherford Democratic Party, for doing an outstanding job.
The focus of the evening was meeting all 5 candidates in the Democratic Gubernatorial Primary and holding a straw poll. Ward Cammack, Sen. Roy Herron, Sen. Jim Kyle, Kim McMillan, and Mike McWherter all gave wonderful speeches about Tennessee's future.

Ward Cammack:
" We need to think big about education and recognize that everybody isn't going to go to college. You can look at it today. There is proof in that. But we need to recognize that we need to give our students , teachers, and parents verifiable success , proven pathes, and we can do this by continuing to emulate the success that we had seen through the partnering of, for example, Hemlock Corporation of Clarksville with Austin Peay, Volkswagon with Chattanooga State Technology Schools. We can do this all over the state to build up the opportunities for our students in every single one of our communities. Why would we not do that?"

Sen. Roy Herron:
"Well ladies and gentlemen let me tell you what I'm tired about and what's on my my heart. Is that I'm tired of lies by some, not all by any means, but some Republicans tell about Democrats. And most of you have heard of if. You've heard them preach from the pulpits and talk from Sunday school lecterns. And too many Republicans have said 'You can't be a person of faith and be a Democrat.' They said our values are wrong. Ann Coulter called us Godless. That's what they say about us. As a matter a fact some of them are trying to decide that Jesus never even rode a donkey. And if he came back today, they would tell you he would ride on the back of an elephant."

Sen. Jim Kyle:
"There are some men who are running for Governor and women who are running for Governor. Who are just some of the finest people I have ever been around. And I am please to sit at this table and we've had a lovely dinner tonight. But there are some men running for Governor that aren't here tonight. And they've said some odd things in the last couple of days. And I'm going to address those so you'll know where Jim Kyle is. We've had a candidate running say that he 'Would stand at the state line to prevent the Federal Government from coming in here. ' The same Federal Government that helped us balance our budget last year. Now, we had another candidate for governor tell us that 'Tennessee was an island of clear thinking in a country gone wrong.' Now ladies and gentlemen I want to remind them and tell you Tennessee is a part of the United States of America. We are One Nation Under God. "

Kim McMillan:
"Being Governor is a hard job and it takes a lot of hard work. It is going to take somebody who is dedicated to this this state, to working hard, and to the people of Tennessee to make sure that things get done. To continue to move Tennessee forward it's going to take somebody who wants to do that hard work. And I submit to you, that Iam prepared to do that hard work. Because I can tell you that my entire life, from the time I was adopted as a child until the I went to law school, became a lawyer, became a banker and a legislature, and a mother and a wife, I have realized you can't get anything unless you work hard at it. And being Governor is no different."

Mike McWherter:
"As I travel across this state the reoccuring question I get all the time is "Mike, knowing what the tough economic challenges are in this state's future, why in the world would you want to run for Governor right now?" Well, it is a favorite question and I will tell you as we look out across the landscape of Tennessee we've seen thousands of jobs literally disappear as factories have closed over the last several years. Our state unemployment rate right now is running at 11%. That is the highest it's been since 1982. You need a Governor that will put the creating and saving of jobs front and center on the agenda. And that is why I am running for Governor."

Congressman Bart Gordon spoke for a moment and introduced his good friend and fellow Congressman Lincoln Davis, the evenings keynote speaker. Mr. Smitty then gave us the results of the evening's straw poll.

Undecided -12, Ward Cammack -13, Mike McWherter-32, Kim McMillan-58, Sen. Jim Kyle -81 and the Winner is Sen. Roy Herron with 119 votes. Here is Sen. Roy Herron's speech from last evening:

Flooding in Rutherford County

2009-09-17T14:34:00.002-05:00

The Christiana area of Rutherford County has been hit with sever flooding today. The Heart of Tennessee Chapter of the American Red Cross is working tirelessly to help to the people of the area. A service center at Christiana Elementary School on Highway 231 South in Christiana has been opened to supply food, bottled water, snacks, toiletry items and clean-up kits. Crossway Baptist Church, 4194 Shelbyville Highway, in Murfreesboro has been set up as a shelter for those that have been evacuated from their homes. For more on this story please go to

WWW.DNJ.COM

1st Annual Rutherford County Grow Tennessee

2009-09-17T01:17:00.002-05:00

The 1st Annual Rutherford County Grow Tennessee dinner will take place this Saturday Sept. 19th at MTSU. Congressman Lincoln Davis will be the keynote speaker. Gubernatorial candidates Sen. Jim Kyle, Kim McMillan, Sen. Roy Herron, Mike McWherter and Ward Cammack will be given an opportunity to speak to the guest. This event is a fundraiser and also a straw poll of the gubernatorial candidates for 2010.
I am proud to say this event has sold out and honored to say that I will be attending this event. I look forward to reporting back to my readers the details of the evening.

Paranormal Time!

2009-09-16T22:26:00.003-05:00

I really admire the Ghost Hunters/ TAPS guys Grant Wilson and Jason Hawes. I have seen them the last 3 years. These guys have not let fame go to their head. They are really down to earth and smart. Let's not forget they have a great team working with them from Steve, Dustin, Joe, Andy, Tango and everyone else that contributes. What they do is more than a TV show. They help people try to find answers, try to find the truth.

Here in Nashville we have our own group. We have the American Paranormal Society created by Donna Marsh. From the website :
"Founded as the Adsagsona Paranormal Society in September 2003, our unique group is now known as the American Paranormal Society (APS) in order to better reflect our interests -- investigating ghosts and hauntings around the United States. The APS strives to gather scientific evidence, offer paranormal education, assist others with spirit presences in their lives, and further paranormal research as an acceptable scientific endeavor."
Open House and Meeting
Come by and meet the APS, hear about the 10 most haunted places in Nashville, learn a bit about photographing ghosts and more.
Oct 10, Sat, 10:30am
Cosmic Connections
1701 Portland Avenue
Nashville, TN 37212

I hope you can make it!!
http://www.tnghost.org/apsociety/index.html

American Legion Day

2009-09-16T04:17:00.002-05:00

WASHINGTON (Sept. 15, 2009) - The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a resolution designating September 16, 2009, as "The American Legion Day." The measure, House Resolution 679, was sponsored by Rep. Debbie Halvorson, D-Ill., and passed this afternoon with wide bipartisan support.Halvorson praised the 90-year old veterans service organization, the largest in the nation, for its continuing work to aid wounded warriors and military families, for Legionnaires' legacy of community volunteerism and for the organization's significant role in establishing important national legislation. "On September 16, 1919, The American Legion was granted their federal charter by Congress, and 90 years later, they have kept their commitment to serve not only as a resource and a voice on behalf of veterans across America, but also as an organization dedicated to the betterment of America through community service," said Halvorson on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives. "Since their founding charter, The American Legion has not wavered from the guiding principles and vision that can be found in their Four Pillars of Service. "

http://ourvoice.legion.org/story/2385/house-joins-senate-proclaiming-sept-16-the-american-legion-day

Harry Potter is Coming to Universal Orlando!

2009-09-16T01:56:00.002-05:00

I can't wait!! Yet all we have for an opening date is Spring 2010. For all the Harry Potter fans I do hope this lives up to our expectations. Hogwarts here we come!!! I don't think I have ever been so excited about going to a school!!! It will be "Magical". Universal is using a 20-acre area that will re-create scenery from the J.K. Rowling books and subsequent films.
•Some merchandise will be exclusive to Islands of Adventure. "We're going to bring to life all the great food and candy and gadgets and what-not that are in the books and films," said Paul Daurio, show producer of Wizarding World. "But more importantly we're going to have an entire line of product that's been developed specifically for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter that can only be found here from the books and the film."

•Guests will be able to purchase wands at Ollivanders wand shop via interactive (and undisclosed) methods. In Potter movies, wands select their owners. "We've developed a way to make that experience real," Mark Woodbury, president of Universal Creative, said.

•The Owl Post will send out letters with a postmark from Hogsmeade, Rowling's village that will be made three-dimensional at Wizarding World.

What's confirmed
•Maps of the area indicate that two existing coasters at Islands will be refashioned for Wizarding World theming. Dueling Dragons becomes Dragon Challenge (now with Chinese Fireball and Hungarian Horntail trains). Flying Unicorn, a family coaster, morphs into Flight of the Hippogriff.

•A slew of stores from the Potter stories — including Zonko's, Honeydukes and Three Broomsticks — will be included in Hogsmeade. Butterbeer, a staple of the stories, will be available there.

For more infor : http://www.orlandosentinel.com/travel/attractions/orl-bk-wizarding-world-of-harry-potter-open-spring,0,399138.story

Davis -Kidd Bookstore

2009-09-16T00:00:00.002-05:00

Bestselling Authors & Food Network Stars
The Deen Brothers
sign
Take It Easy
Monday, September 21
7:00 pm
Davis-Kidd Booksellers
2121 Green Hills Village Dr
Nashville, TN 37215
(615) 385-2645

Jamie and Bobby Deen--Paula's sons, offer a new collection of recipes to get dinner on the table in under 45 minutes.

Description:

If you haven't got time to waste, Jamie and Bobby Deen have the meals to make. Imagine getting dinner on the table for your family in forty-five minutes or less. In this inspired and indispensable new cookbook, Paula Deen's sons show you how to whip up 125 delicious Southern-style recipes quicker than you can say, "Come and get it "
The Deen brothers know a lot about cooking good food fast. They hosted the Food Network hit "Road Tasted," appear regularly on "Good Morning America," and are co-owners (with their mom) of Savannah's famous The Lady &Sons Restaurant. Their fast-paced lifestyles require no-fuss meals without a lot of prep. Jamie's a family man who's got to work, serve supper, and still chase after his three-year-old son. Bobby, one of People magazine's most eligible bachelors, appreciates a good meal before heading out to work at his restaurant or for a night on the town. They're the perfect guys to write a guide to swift dishes that don't stint on taste or Southern authenticity.
This mouthwatering collection offers dishes that really deliver on flavor yet can be prepared within a budget. There are no hard-to-find ingredients or tricky techniques to follow, just the tasty, irresistible cooking that the Deens have come to be known for. For lunch, dinner, or late-night snacks, if you've got meat in mind, how about Speedy Mini-Meat Loaves with Baked Sweet Potato Wedges? If chicken's your choice, Broiled Pesto Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes is a satisfying possibility. And if you're really on the go, there are whole chapters devoted to simple grilling and crockpot cooking.
Lighter fare includes Turkey and Black Bean Burgers with Corny Salsa and Jerk Shrimp Kebabs with Tomatoes, Onions, and Peppers, and main-course salads such as Jamie's Nutty Orange Chicken Salad. If you have kids, they will love Yummy Orange Beef Fingers. In fact, in honor of Jamie's son, there's a whole chapter devoted to kids' food called "Jack's Favorites" (which might become your kids' favorites too ). And what's a meal without dessert? Jamie and Bobby offer their favorite temptations, ranging from Chocolate Peanut-Butter Malteds to Quick Blackberry Cream Pie.
Seasoned with wonderful never-before-seen color photos of the entire Deen family and sprinkled liberally with Jamie's and Bobby's down-home charm, and including signature dishes from The Lady &Sons Restaurant, The Deen Bros. Take It Easy is a treat in itself for anyone with a full life and an empty stomach.

Patrick Swayze

2009-09-14T20:03:00.003-05:00

Patrick Swayze has died.
If you watch the video above it is from the movie Dirty Dancing. I was 16 when I watched it and fell in love as only a teenage girl can. He was larger than life on that screen. As I watch the young girls today talk and dream about Robert Pattinson I can fondly remember Patrick Swayze. As Johnny Castle he was the best dancer I had ever seen. He made dancing beautiful, sexual and beautiful. Oh how I wanted to be Jennifer Grey!!! His movies were such a part of my life that on my honeymoon my husband and I watched only 2 videos( yes, before DVDs, 1989). One was a stand up comedian and the other was Roadhouse. "The name is Dalton" said Jeff Healy.

In 1990 Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore starred in the blockbuster movie Ghost. This is truly a love story. Showing that love can conquer everything, even death. Patrick was a great actor. He more than proved himself in this movie while playing the character Sam Wheat. He proved he could dance in Dirty Dancing. But what you may not know is that he could sing. Here's Patrick singing She's Like the Wind.

Born Aug 18, 1952 Patrick Swayze has died today, Sept 14, 2009 at the age 57. He leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Lisa Niemi. Our Prayers are with her and their family and friends.

Beyonce is a Class Act

2009-09-13T22:40:00.006-05:00

Beyonce won Video of the Year!!! Being the classy person she is , she invited Taylor on the stage with her. I will post video when available. For now here is the list of nominees and winners.

2009 MTV VMA Nominees & * Winners

Video of the Year
* Beyonce, "Single Ladies"
Lady Gaga, "Poker Face"
Eminem, "We Made You"
Kanye West, "Love Lockdown"
Britney Spears, "Womanizer"

Best Female Video
* Taylor Swift, "You Belong With Me"
Lady Gaga, "Poker Face"
Beyonce, "Single Ladies"
Katy Perry, "Hot n Cold"
Kelly Clarkson, "My Life Would Suck Without You"
Pink, "So What"

Best Male Video
* T.I. featuring Rihanna, "Live Your Life"
Eminem, "We Made You"
Kanye West, "Love Lockdown"
Jay-Z, "D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)"
Ne-Yo, "Miss Independent"

Best Pop Video
* Britney Spears, "Womanizer"
Lady Gaga, "Poker Face"
Beyonce, "Single Ladies"
Cobra Starship, "Good Girls Go Bad"
Wisin Y Yandel, "Abusadora"

Best New Artist
* Lady Gaga
Drake
Kid Cudi
Asher Roth
3OH!3

Best Rock Video
* Green Day, "21 Guns"
Coldplay, "Viva La Vida"
Fall Out Boy, "I Don't Care"
Kings of Leon, "Use Somebody"
Paramore, "Decode"

Best Hip Hop Video
* Eminem, "We Made You"
Kanye West, "Love Lockdown"
Jay-Z, "D.O.A. (Death of Auto-Tune)"
Asher Roth, "I Love College"
Flo Rida, "Right Round"

Best Breakthrough Video
* Matt & Kim: "Lessons Learned"
Death Cab For Cutie: "Grapevine Fires"
Gnarls Barkley: "Who’s Gonna Save My Soul"
Anjulie: "Boom"
Cold War Kids: "I've Seen Enough"
Chairlift: "Evident Utensil"
Bat For Lashes: "Daniel
Major Lazer: "Hold The Line"
Passion Pit: "The Reeling"
Yeah Yeah Yeahs: "Heads Will Roll"

Best Video That Should Have Won A Moonman
* Beastie Boys, "Sabotage"
Bjork, "Human Nature"
David Lee Roth, "California Girls"
Dr. Dre, "Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang"
Foo Fighters, "Everlong"
George Michael, "Freedom"
OK Go, "Here It Goes Again"
Radiohead, "Karma Police"
Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers, "Into the Great Wide Open"
U2, "Where The Streets Have No Name"

Shame on Kanye West!

2009-09-13T21:59:00.004-05:00

Tonight this thug stole from Taylor Swift a moment in time that she will never be able to get back. Shame on him! I certainly hope the VMAs ban this immature rapper from ever entering their ceremonies again! He truly needs to apologize to BOTH Taylor Swift and Beyonce. But I seriously doubt that he is man enough to do that and mean it. You see, if was a man he would have NEVER done what he did to begin with.

Tired!!

2009-09-10T01:53:00.005-05:00

Oh Me! Oh My! I am still tired. WOW! What a vacation. Luckily we all survived it. Ten of us left out at 6 am Thursday morning to go to Atlanta, Ga. Since I had booked the room using hotwire I was told by the hotel I would be put in a King room. Yeah right! Thankfully, when I got there they were able to put us in rooms with double beds. Other wise I was going to eat that money and stay at a different hotel. We got to Atlanta around 11:00 est, checked into the hotel , and headed straight to the Aquarium. Georgia has an awesome aquarium!! We all watched the Imax film which was great. I think my favorite part was the tropical aquarium. The bright pinks against bright blues and yellows was just amazing. After leaving the Aquarium we headed to the Varsity Restaurant. The Varsity is an Atlanta staple that has been around since 1928. Everyone should go there at least once just for the onion rings. Back to the hotel we went to unload our cars then off to DragonCon. Oh you got to love Atlanta traffic...NOT! If I thought the car traffic was bad it was nothing compared to the 2 hours in line to get our DragonCon badges! Now that is 10:30 pm what did we do? Go to the hotel and get rest? NO! Off we had to go to Kroger before we went back to the hotel. Why? Because I was not going to pay $18.95 for 2 eggs. We have found an awesome parking garage ...WHOO HOO!! So now we are off to start the DragonCon adventure. I have Seanna in line to see James Marsters. Sean has taken Rosa and Claranda to get in line to see Peter Facinelli. How did that work out? Not so great , sign posted saying changes have been made Pete will not be there until tomorrow. So off they go to get in line for TAPS. The guys from the show Ghost Hunters. Claranda absolutely loves that show and this was such a treat a for her. So many people are in line to see James Marsters but Seanna waits patiently. She was wearing a shirt I had made for her on CafePress that said "Team Spike 'Cause Real Vampires Don't Sparkle". When James saw that he said "Yes! Love it!" and then signed her Spike doll. We left the Hilton and went on to the Marriot to pay for the photos they girls would be having done with James Marsters and Peter Facinelli. On to the Hyatt for the paper work to sign Rosa up for the Dawn Contest. Lots and lots and lots of walking!!! Called my sister and her family they spent the day at the mall shopping and we were going to meet up for dinner. I so love Mexican food!!! We went to El Azteca off Roswell drive. The food is great and the service is awesome! They had a clown/magician that came to our table. He was excellent. He even pulled a scarf out of Seanna's sleeve. Hmmm, how did that get there? Then they had their band play at our table. Again it was just awesome. Time to go back to the hotel Rosa has an early photo shoot! So it is Saturday and I have to get up at the crack of butt but thankfully Sean is taking Rosa to this photo shoot while I stay at the hotel with the other 2 kids. Brenda and her family are going to the Atlanta zoo today. This day is run , run, run, and run. Rosa had her photo set at 9:45 then turned in her registration for the Dawn Contest,and then they came back to the hotel. Seanna is now sick and not feeling like doing anything. But alas, the show must go on and on she went. I did her hair and make up and we were off to the Marriot for her photo shoot with James Marsters.Sean took Rosa and Claranda to see Peter and get Rosa's phot autographed. UGH. Another line. James told Seanna she looked fabulous. Of course with that her smile swelled and so did her head. Time for food so we headed to the Peachtree Center Mall food court. Yes, you can do good deeds on vacation! Two years ago , the first time I went to Atlanta for DragonCon my kids and I volunteered to help with the Jerry Lewis Telethon that was being hosted at our hotel. This year, after leaving the food court, Sean and I gave blood for the local Red Cross. Every pint donated can save 3 lives! After donating blood and feeling whoosie it was off to the Hyatt ( more walking..RUNNING). Sean, Rosa, and Claranda went to the car to Rosa's outfit. Seanna and I went straight to the hotel...but we got lost. UGH. But we made it in time! Rosa was in the bathroom changing into her Dawn Costume. We got her changed and checked in. Backstage I was able to do her hair and make up. She was beautiful. The staff treated her like a star and she truly loved it. I loved watching my butterfly come out of her cocoon. She was amazing. We didn't get back to the hotel until around 11:30 that night. I talked to Brenda who said the Zoo was lacking funding and had changed so much in just one year. It was sad. She said Rosa would have cried if she had seen the animals in the condition they are now in. Get some rest and start again! Sunday morning and we are off to DragonCon again! First to the Marriot to get the picture of Seanna with James. Now off to the Hilton to stand in a long line to get that photo autographed! And if I thought her head was huge before...OMG when he personalized this photo I didn't know if she would fit back in the car!!!! Find Sean, Rosa, and Claranda and we off to meet Brenda at the Fernbank Museum...woo hoo MORE WALKING! Now Lucy isn't feeling too great. She seems to be coming down with a cold. The museum is OK but NOTHING like ones in Los Angeles. Back to the hotel for us. Lucy was asking to go swimming so all the kids went swimming. We were hoping that the swim would make Lucy and in one aspect it did. She was really happy in the pool. But that evening her fever spiked to 102. That's not good. Brenda and Pete went to the store and got her some meds. We got it down to 100.3 and then she went to sleep. Either something strong was going or my combination of chili cheese fritos and grape cola was not a good idea. Because at 4 am I was in the bathroom doubled over that potty. It was not pretty but it was purple! Sean comes to the bathroom and says "Hey, we don't have to go to Six Flags today." To which I said "Yes we do". Sean , " No we DON'T!". I said " I already bought the tickets." Then my loving husband said "Oh, ok, so we are going to six flags!". Got to love him! OK time for check out and off to DragonCon to buy the last couple of things, then off to Six Flags!! Met Brenda and her family at Six Flags and got some great photos. Amanda and I did the cupid shuffle with Mr. Six Flags. The girls got soaked on the ThunderRiver ride. Then it was time to hit the road and head home around 5 in the evening. We finally got back home Monday night around 9:30pm. It was a great great weekend!!!

Feel Good Friday

2009-08-14T01:55:00.001-05:00

Ok, normally Feel Good Friday is about about music. Not today! Today I am going to mix it up just a little with cartoon that I loved as a child. For that matter, I still love it! Now, go find your laughing place!!!

2009-08-07T13:36:00.002-05:00

For those of that you do not know, my daughters are in Girl Scouts. We are leaving this afternoon to go "camping". I am not a fan of camping. It doesn't bring out the best in me. Instead it tends to bring out the cranky, itchy and bitchy me!!! It is hot, stinky, bugified, and down right ICKY! However, as my Mom always told me "We are going on an adventure". As I grew up I realized that "adventure" was code for surviving hell. So, this weekend I am going on an adventure with my daughters. They will love this weekend. It is filled with singing, camp fires, smores, horseback riding, swimming, and laughter with friends. I will love the many photos and videos I get of the girls enjoy this time. And that is what it is all about right?

Respect Restored

2009-08-03T22:00:00.002-05:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Keith Olbermann is the host on MSNBC's nightly show Countdown. It is nice to see our news program holding our elected officals accountable. This is what they are supposed to do. Our press is the unofficial 4th branch of the government. They are the watchers. The press is to be our eyes and ears in government. To see and listen and then be OUR advocate in the media.
The previous 8 years we have seen media used to do the bidding of the government. For a refresher, one only needs look as far as Judith Miller a journalist for the New York Times.
Somewhere, the Press lost its way. Perhaps it is partially our fault. We the people didn't see the news as flashy enough. Celebrities on their 4th rehab stint are more interesting than what Congress is doing with our money. Well, that is until we personally run out of money. Then we want to know what the hell happened! What happened? We had a Congress that didn't represent us, a Press that didn't advocate for us, and citizens that couldn't be bothered with the truth.
Now, we have people that are paying attention, a Press that is aware and making us aware, and finally...we have a Congress placed on notice!

Health Care

2009-07-27T15:09:00.002-05:00

I have been the person on the other end of that phone call. All the while still telling myself I was blessed just to be lucky enough to buy this insurance that was putting my life at risk. And I was. You see, even though my HMO said they would not pay for the specialist my family doctor said I needed, I was at least able to go to a doctor. (Yes, this was back when I had "good" insurance in 1996. It has gone down hill since then.) I say it was good insurance because it didn't take a lot out of the paycheck and the co-pays were small. Now, there are deductibles and the percentage of how much they will pay of what they think the procedure should cost. Even with insurance you can go broke in a hurry now. Still, that is better than nothing. For those of you contemplating the Health Care Bill in D.C. right now let me show you what not having insurance does. My Aunt, Violet Norris, worked her entire life. From age 16 to 61 she had a job supporting her family. In 2006 she had blood in her urine. Did she go to a doctor in 2006? No. Why not? Because even though she had a full time job it did not offer insurance. For someone who is working to have to miss a day's pay from being at the doctor plus a full doctor bill, well, that just isn't even an option. It is simply a last resort.

People will try to say that this America and you HAVE to be seen and taken care of. Either these people are simply ignorant to the real world or they are liars. The only time you HAVE to be seen is in an ER situation at which time all they HAVE to do is stablize you.

In 2008, she finally broke down and went to the doctor. By this point the doctor said he had to remove her kidney. Violet had renal pelvic transitional cell carcinoma. They removed the kidney in May 2008. In June we were told it was Stage IV. At this point she is no longer working and in constant pain. Yet it is a battle to try to get her some type of insurance. You would think having worked from age 16 to 61 it would be no problem for her to obtain SSI. You would be wrong. She was denied repeatedly. At one point she was even told that you can work with Stage IV cancer it is just like having a twisted ankle. I don't like to wish bad things on people but if I was going to it would be on this person. This person that worked for SSI that obviously has no clue the effects of chemo treatment.

Of course the cancer spread, that is what it does. It had gone into her lymphnode system. Still she was strong in spirit. In Oct 2008 she started both a chemo and radiation treatment. But it was too much for her body. She hired an attorney to help with the SSI after being turned down again. In December she was finally approved for the SSI. Hospice was called in to help her with pain management.

On February 21, 2009 she died from complications due to renal pelvic transitional cell carcinoma. Yes, that is how it is listed on her death certificate. If you ask me though, she died from complications of a system where a person that worked for 45 yrs did not have basic health insurance. Had she had insurance in 2006 and gone to a dr then and started treatment then she would certainly have had a better chance of being alive now.

Please remember this when you discuss health care with your friends, family, and co workers. Then know at any point it could be someone you care about.

The Ocean

2009-06-23T01:28:00.002-05:00

I love the ocean. I get this from my Mom. So, these next 2 videos are for you, Mom. I love you. I hope you can enjoy watching the ocean.

Father's Day

2009-06-21T21:03:00.003-05:00

This picture is of my Dad and brother John. I love them both dearly.

For Mom

2009-06-05T23:33:00.002-05:00

Mom,

Shadoe made this for you.

For John

2009-06-05T23:13:00.003-05:00

John,

She did it!! Shadoe looked so beautiful. I have more video of her graduation for you. I promised you I would get video for you, I kept my word. I hope you like it.

Love and Miss You,
Idava

Class of 2009

2009-06-04T01:00:00.003-05:00

Congratulations Shadoe! We are all so proud of you!!

This is what it is all about

2009-06-01T17:57:00.004-05:00

This is what it is all about !! Having fun in the sun. After spending the day helping the Boy Scouts with their day camp the girls hit the pool!!

2009-05-28T20:41:00.002-05:00

Memorial Weekend 2009

2009-05-24T14:46:00.004-05:00

How will you spend this Memorial Weekend? I hope you spend it with people that love you. While you are enjoying your family, friends, and food please remember our soldiers. Be grateful for the sacrafices that have been, those that are being made, and those that will be by those that wear the nation's uniforms.

Oh my the years pass by

2009-05-10T16:35:00.005-05:00

My daughter Rosa turned 16 this past April. We had her birthday party yesterday. This is the video that played before she entered the room.

Feel Good Friday 05/08/09

2009-05-08T05:01:00.001-05:00

You got to love Billy Idol!!!

For Becky

2009-04-27T00:49:00.002-05:00

Becky is important to my family. She is going to be marrying my nephew Willie. On Saturday her Mom, Juanita, passed away. As expected Becky is heart broken. No one can ever replace your mom. We all know this and we know we can not make the pain go away. All we can do is be a family and be here for each other. You are our family, let us be here for you.

Happy Birthday Amanda !!!

2009-04-21T01:58:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Amanda! We love you very much.

Happy Birthday Rosa!

2009-04-20T02:04:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Rosa! We all love you.

Feel Good Friday 4/17/09

2009-04-16T23:50:00.002-05:00

I have been on both sides of this song. I have had to call family and friends to help me. Fortunately for me, I have also been able to help them in return. It is what my parents taught me and what I try to teach my children. Help when you can, because the next person that needs help might be you or someone you love. And of course, you would want someone to help you and your loved ones.

Susan Boyle is Amazing

2009-04-15T23:36:00.002-05:00

I like a lot of different music but there have been very few singers that I thought were amazing. Susan Boyle is one of those singers. Her voice is truly beyond belief, heavenly. Over and over people are saying "She has the voice of an angel." I must admit I completely agree. She has done her nation proud. There is no way Britney Spears, Madonna, Beyonce, or any other cute little current top 10 singer can hold a candle to her voice. Even with all of the recording mastering engineering and technology the others will never even be in her league. Her voice is pure, it is devine.
Susan Boyle Sings on Britain's Got Talent 2009 Episode 1 @ Yahoo! Video

Quote 4/14/09

2009-04-14T22:17:00.001-05:00

" I dropped a tear in the ocean. The day you find it is the day I will stop missing you. " Unknown

Happy Anniversary 4/14/09

2009-04-14T22:09:00.002-05:00

This is for my brother John and his wife. He is on the otherside of the world right now , but I know his heart is with his family. Congratulations on 19 yrs.

Happy Anniversary 04/05/09

2009-04-05T09:22:00.002-05:00

Pete and Brenda , Happy Anniversary! Congratulations on 29 years together, 3 kids, and 1 beautiful Lucy. I love you!

Feel Good Friday 4/03/09

2009-04-03T06:27:00.002-05:00

I truly believe Billy Joel is one of the greatest entertainers of my life. His songs always tell a story, one most people can relate to. His music is timeless.

Feel Good Friday 3/27/09

2009-03-27T05:26:00.002-05:00

In memory of Dan Seals who lost his battle with cancer on March 25, 2009. He was only 61. Dan had several #1 hit songs, this one being my sister's favorite. His family will be in our thoughts and prayers. To learn more about Dan Seals click here Dan Seals - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia .