Trail Boss

Thieves Respect Property

2011-12-15T18:18:00.001-08:00

Enter Villian:

"Look at my gloves," he stated jubilantly.

Glancing down I noticed his glow-in-the-dark skeleton gloves. "Those are nice," I replied.

"Yeah, I know," he said as he walked to his desk at the front of the class.

Three minutes later the class phone rang...

I answered, "Room 10, how may I assist you?"

The voice on the other end said, "Did any of your students come in with glow-in-the-dark skeleton gloves?"

"Hmmm. Now that you mention it, yes, one of my students does have a rather nice pair of glow-in-the-dark skeleton gloves. Why do you ask?"

"Well", she began, "He took those off of my table. They belong to another child."

"Oh! So this other child would like to have them back?"

"Yes!" was the response.

Upon questioning the student with the rather nice pair of glow-in-the-dark skeleton gloves, he stated that his kind dear mother had given them to him that very morning as an early Christmas gift for his wonderful demeanor and behavior. When told that another child was missing a pair just like them back in his other class, he said, "Huh, well, that's sad, I have to go work on my spelling, now."

...As he turned away I picked up the phone and said, "Just one more thing... what will your mother say when I phone her and ask about the gloves?"

In a rush the words fell out into the room, "I found them on the floor and I put them on and they fit so nice I thought I could keep them."

Thieves respect property. They merely wish the property to become their property that they may more perfectly respect it. Gilbert K. Chesterson

The Righteous Discontent

2011-12-10T18:28:00.000-08:00

You may not be able to change their opinion nor their behavior... but you can still do right.

Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53 Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid. (Luke 23:50-53)

Thankful for Thankful Farmers

2011-11-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

Breathe on such Dry Bones as We

2011-11-13T12:22:00.000-08:00

To hear a modern rendition click here

Hymn 111

Lord, we confess our num'rous faults,

How great our guilt has been!

Foolish and vain were all our thoughts,

And all our lives were sin.

But, O my soul! for ever praise,

For ever love his name,

Who turns thy feet from dangerous ways

Of folly, sin, and shame.

'Tis not by works of righteousness

Which our own hands have done;

But we are saved by sovereign grace

Abounding through his Son.

'Tis from the mercy of our God

That all our hopes begin;

'Tis by the water and the blood

Our souls are washed from sin.

'Tis through the purchase of his death

Who hung upon the tree,

The Spirit is sent down to breathe

On such dry bones as we.

Raised from the dead we live anew;

And, justified by grace,

We shall appear in glory too,

And see our Father's face.

Isaac Watts

A Worthy Cause: Samaritan's Purse

2011-11-05T15:25:00.000-07:00

"Let my heart be broken with the things that break the heart of God." Bob Pierce wrote these now-famous words in his Bible after visiting suffering children on the Korean island of Kojedo. This impassioned prayer is what guided him as he founded and led the ministry of Samaritan's Purse in 1970. His mission for this organization was "to meet emergency needs in crisis areas through existing evangelical mission agencies and national churches." (From the Samaritan's Purse Website)

Samaritan's Purse Operation Christmas Child

“A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him and departed, leaving him half dead.

But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion. He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he set him on his own animal and brought him to an inn and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper, saying, ‘Take care of him, and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed him mercy.” And Jesus said to him, “You go, and do likewise.” (Luke 10:30, 33-37)

The Christian Worldview in Four Easy Steps

2011-10-25T19:51:00.000-07:00

Well-Meaning Gentlemen with Different Ideas

has written down the The Christian Worldview in Four Easy Steps

from Kevin DeYoung.

Happy Columbus Day

2011-10-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Study the man and you will realize he was like us, human and in need of a savior.

A Worthy Cause: Gabriel House

2011-09-03T07:11:00.000-07:00

Jesus said:
"Whatsoever you have done for the least of these.....you have done it to me."
Mathew 25:40

Gabriel House is a not-for-profit Christian residential home dedicated to the total care and rehabilitation of profoundly handicapped children and children with immune deficiency disorders.
Gabriel House strives to extend hope and dignity to the children at no cost to their impoverished families.

In August my son and I went to Ensenada Mexico. I have gone before with my daughter to build houses with Hands of Mercy but this was something entirely different. Gabriel House is an orphanage for severely disabled children. Some have no families. Many have families that are unable to care for their needs, and have found the Gabriel House a loving place where their children will be cared for.

With Hands of Mercy you work all day Saturday. You have a goal of building a house and presenting it to a family who have saved for years to buy the 40 by 40 plot of ground they will call home. You feel useful and there is always something to do. You work and are rewarded with a job well done and fantastic fellowship.

At Gabriel House there were jobs to do; sanding, painting, washers and dryers to repair, laundry to be washed, dried, folded and put away and a roof to be repaired, but for at least half the day there was nothing to do. When you have nothing to do... you wait... sit... talk to your friends... talk to your son... walk across the street for a soda... walk around the orphanage...

Eventually you figure it out... you don't have to do anything except sit down with some kids, your own included, and toss a ball back and forth. You read a book aloud in Spanish, even though you don't know what 70% of the words mean. You sing songs in English, while others sing in Spanish.

Sometimes Godly service means waiting, sitting, playing. You do not have to do. You have to be there and... be there.

At the border.

Stopping for dinner on the way.

A professional painter being a mentor to my nine year old...

See more of the pictures at my wife's blog

More pictures of the kids at Gabriel House

The Walk

2011-08-01T12:12:00.000-07:00

"I have taught all men repentance and remission of sins,
according to the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
For that Gospel I am here,
with a cheerful mind and courage,
ready to suffer death.
What I taught with my lips I now seal with my blood."

John Huss at the stake to be burned -- 1415

Mountain Man with Style

2011-07-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

Collared shirt, tie and vest: Style

The mountains are calling and I must go.
John Muir

Stand, but Stand in a Holy Manner

2011-07-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

We must not only stand for the truth,
but we must stand for it in a holy manner,
and not as proud persons do;
we must observe that rule,
"Be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you
a reason of the hope that is in you
with meekness and fear" (I Peter 3:15).
We must not bring passion into God's cause
nor must our lives give our tongues the lie. (Richard Sibbes 1577 - 1635)

A Worthy Cause: Covenant Community Services

2011-07-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened and maintained.
Winston Churchill

The family is a haven in a heartless world.

~Attributed to Christopher Lasch

Covenant Community Services serves abused and neglected children by finding, training and supporting foster families to care for children in need of a loving family. They also support and guide former foster children as they transition into adulthood, providing life skills and care through mentoring.

All that and a cup of coffee. Covenant Coffee. Drink a cup, save a child.

June 23rd: One Year Anniversary of my Surgery

2011-07-09T19:18:00.000-07:00

Two days after surgery

Two weeks after surgery

Nine months after surgery

Iron Man: Actually its a titanium alloy but Iron Man has a better sound to it.

Beautiful Evening in the West

2011-06-02T21:05:00.000-07:00

Perfect temperatures and a beautiful sunset.

Here it is, the beginning of June and God is giving us March, all over again.

Thank You God.

Not Sinful, Just Stupid

2011-03-06T20:32:00.000-08:00

Jury Duty

2011-02-28T16:12:00.000-08:00

I was ready...
I brought two books...
I brought a pocket full of quarters...
I waited for seven hours...
They never called...

I want to be on a County Jury

so that I can experience our system in action

and do my part to Protect and Serve

and provide Justice to all.

But I was not needed.

Sigh, disappointment, maybe next year.

BUT WAIT...

What's this?

A summons for all of next month for the Federal Courts up north.

Drive two hours,

stay overnight

with the potential of serving on a six month trial.

Six months!

Never mind!

Nature Like Ours part 2: Coward

2011-02-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life and came to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” (1 Kings 19:3 - 4)

The man who prayed for fire and rain now flees from Jezebel who has pledged to kill him. Where is that faith in God? Yet, God uses him. God comes to him, provides for his needs, ministers to him and reveals Himself to Elijah.

And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. (1 Kings 18: 11 - 12)

Barnabas was a Good Man, Full of the Holy Spirit

2011-02-20T15:24:00.000-08:00

Barnabas was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. (Acts 11:24)

1. He was set apart by God to preach the Gospel. Acts 13:2-3
2. He sold property and laid the money at the disciple's feet. Ats 4:36-37
3. He sought Saul out and brought Saul to the believers. Acts 11:25-26
4. He took on Mark when Saul/Paul refused. Acts 15:37-39

Nature Like Ours

2011-02-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

Elijah the prophet came near and said, “O Lord, God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that you are God in Israel, and that I am your servant, and that I have done all these things at your word. Answer me, O Lord, answer me, that this people may know that you, O Lord, are God, and that you have turned their hearts back.” Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. (1 Kings 18: 36 - 38)

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit. (James 5:17 - 18)

Books read in 2011 - Latest: The Know-It-All

2011-01-27T21:20:00.000-08:00

The Know-It-All: One Man's Humble Quest to Become the Smartest Person in the World - A.J. Jacobs The written ramblings of a man's journey through reading the Encyclopedia Britannica. Since he is reading through the Encyclopedia he does of course cover some ribald topics. So reader... BEWARE.

Right to the Edge: Sydney to Tokyo By Any Means - Charley Boorman - The continuing travel journal of Charley and his quest to meet strange new people, drive their cars, trucks, trains, airplanes and of course motorcycles. Yes, he does have a British Potty Mouth so... reader BEWARE.

The African Queen - C.S. Forester - The book is very similar to the movie. The main difference being the book has a greater spiritual aspect to it involving Rose's apparent loss/forgetting of God and a return to God. Charlie seeing her pray with tears comments that she was created with infinitly better clay than himself. The movie ending has a more providential flare to it involving the destruction of the K. Louisa that was not in the book.

World Made By Hand - James Howard Kunstler - War and lack of oil has returned the USA to the 1800's and yet hope remains, not for a return to the way things were but to a new future. Think The Postman. (Huh! guess I have been watching Lord of the Rings too much lately with that "hope remains" comment.)

The Giants Novels - James P. Hogan - Science Fiction trilogy about how a 50,000 year old corpse in an astronaut suit ended up on the moon.

The Audacity of Growth

2011-01-23T14:38:00.000-08:00

While trimming the Mulberry Tree, which has the great audacity to grow into the overhanging power lines each and every year, I noticed the rope that we had looped around a branch last spring. The kids have used it as a Tarzan Swinging Vine, a step up into the tree, a swing and the always popular "whip my sibling tool of death."

It is a good rope that began its' life as a rope for toddlers at church to hold onto as they walk from the classroom to the playground. The tree had grown around this wonderful rope and here I stood, chainsaw in hand. I had no choice.

So I began, small surgical cuts, holding my breath, as I began to free this valiant captive of uncontrolled growth and mischievous mulberryness. Little by little, slowly, carefully until at the end I carefully peeled back the small pieces remaining and released the rope. The rope is still there waiting for tomorrow, waiting for the kids to come back outside and play.

Righteous Before God and a Doubter?

2010-11-24T17:42:00.000-08:00

"I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time."

Of Two Evils, Choose Neither

2010-10-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

Vote how you will, but pray about it.
Enough said, by me.

During the General Election of 1880, a gentleman having written to express his deep regret that Mr. Spurgeon “should have descended from his high and lofty position as a servant of God, and preacher of the everlasting gospel into the defiled arena of party politics,” the Pastor replied...

Read the rest at BaptistGadfly

Just Doing My Part To Save The Planet

2010-10-28T17:56:00.000-07:00

I do not like this Uncle Sam,

I do not like his health care scam.

I do not like these dirty crooks,

or how they lie and cook the books.

I do not like when Congress steals,

I do not like their secret deals.

I do not like this speaker Nan ,

I do not like this 'YES, WE CAN'.

I do not like this spending spree---

I'm smart, I know that nothing's free.

I do not like your smug replies,

when I complain about your lies.

I do not like this change and hope.

I do not like it. nope, nope, nope!

Go green -

recycle Congress in 2010!

I received this in an email from my Uncle Mark. Apparently it has been in circulation for a while at places such as

http://www.independent.org/blog/index.php?p=7562

Christmas List 2011... to be continued

2010-10-15T20:22:00.000-07:00

Ural T

Yankee Handyman by Stanley

A farm with a cow or three

The Library

2010-10-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

Never lend books, for no one ever returns them; the only books I have in my library are books that other folk have lent to me.
     - Anatole France, 1844 - 1924

A collection of good books, with a soul to it in the shape of a librarian, becomes a vitalized power among the impulses by which the world goes on to improvement.
     - Justin Winsor, 1878

The library is not only a diary of the human race, but marks an act of faith in the continuity of humanity.
     - Vartan Gregorian

When I read about the way in which library funds are being cut and cut, I can only think that American society has found one more way to destroy itself.
     - Isaac Asimov, 1920 - 1992

The public library is the most dangerous place in town.
     - John Ciardi, 1916 - 1986

All quotes are courtesy of Uncle Mark and some quote place he subscribes to.

Things Teachers Say

2010-10-08T20:28:00.000-07:00

Turn in your homework.

Sit down. Quietly please.

Walk!

Hurry up!

You did great, super, fantastic.

That was amazing, beautiful, brilliant.

I am so proud of you.

You worked so hard and did so well.

You make me smile. :-)

Let's call your mom and dad and tell them what a good job you did.

Take that out of your mouth, nose, ear.

Wait! Don't take that out of your NOSE!

Please use a tissue.

Don't throw up on the carpet, go outside and throw up on the grass please.

Where is the blood coming from?

At least you didn't lose an eye.

Don't share.

Don't share hand sanitizer.
Don't share used tissue.
Don't share hats.
Don't share already chewed gum.

Share!

Don't eat your crayons, pencils, paint, shirt, belt.

Don;t crawl under the bathroom stall doors.

Get
    off
       the
         counter.

Quit
   sliding
      down
         the
           railing.

Yes, I know it is fun. It is not covered by insurance.

WHAT! ARE! YOU! DOING? Never mind, don't tell me, don't do it again.

Bueller, Bueller!

Does that work at home?

And...your point was?

Reeaally...

I'm sorry, what are you trying to say?

Use the bathroom at recess time.

Do you need to use the restroom? Again?

What are you doing in the urinal?

You flushed his backpack in the toilet?

You stepped in the toilet? You mean you were standing on the toilet when your foot fell in?

You punched him in the face because he looked at you funny? Really?

It doesn't matter how annoying she is, you can not hit and scream at her.

You get what you get and you don't throw a fit.

Keep your hands, feet, Kleenex, crayon, pencil, shoe, backpack, snot, spit to yourself.

Don't tell me about that rated R movie, I'm too young to see it.

Tomorrow is a new day.

Be careful out there.

Surgery Really Cut Into My... Books I Have Read in 2010... 39 DONE

2010-09-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

This are the books I've read so far in 2010. I will continue to update through-out the year.

Christless Christianity - Horton - Horton writes every thing I've been thinking about the church for the last ten years. Making Christ into something of our own image definitely isn't new.

My Men are My Heroes - Kasal -This is the story behind the famous photo. It reveals with gritty reality the Battle of Fallujah.

Bruised Reed - Sibbes - This was my second time through this book. It is a great reminder that God delights in our weakness and often uses the "bruised reed" to bring himself glory.

The Cellist of Sarajevo - Galloway - See my wife's review here. I like books where NORMAL people are heroes.

Driving Over Lemons - Stewart - I always enjoy these types of books. People who have a dream and just go for it, no matter the cost.

Buller's Victory - Hough - Historical fiction about WWI naval battles against German U-boats. I always enjoy naval history.

Mr. Bligh and Mr. Christian - Hough - Nonfiction book on the Mutiny of the Bounty. I got a real sense of what Bligh was like in this book, and I can see how a dedicated devoted British naval officer, like Mr. Christian, would have mutinied against him.

The Last Voyage of Captain James Cook - Hough - This book is a tragedy. We get a glimpse into Bligh's future as we see the man he will eventually become.

Long Way Round - McGregor & Boorman - This chronicles in diary format the motorcycle trip of McGregor and Boorman from London all the way around the world. Man, I am sooo going on their next trip! Come on, guys. You need me, right?! Right!

Long Way Down - McGregor & Boorman - Oops! I missed the trip. A good adventure read. Boys Stuff, although McGregor's wife went along for part of the trip. It is amazing the different people they meet and the experiences they have.

- Jupiter's Travels: Four Years Around the World on a Triumph - Ted Simon - The inspiration for the Long Way 'Round trips. It takes place in the 1970's and my how things are still the same.

The Lightning Thief - Rick Riordan - This is a fantasy book for teenagers. Think Greek Mythology meets Harry Potter, but not so dark and scary.
The Sea Monsters - Rick Riordan - book two in the series.
The Titan's Curse - Rick Riordan - book three in the series.
The Battle of the Labyrinth - Rick Riordan - book four in the series.
The Last Olympian - Rick Riordan - book five in the series

Star Trek: Best Destiny - Diane Care - Yes, more fluff. A young James T. Kirk as a whining, smart alec, snot nosed kid who learns that he is the problem and his dad is actually alright.

Marco Polo - Charles P. Graves - A little kid's book about Marco Polo from a six year old on. Good brief synopsis of Marco.

Arguing With Idiots - Glenn Beck - A conservative plea for brainpower over small minds, lies and pig government. Oops! Did I think that out loud?)

Danger in the Desert - Roger Cohen - Exploration bio of Roy Chapman Andrews, The Dragon Hunter, another good book about the man, who some claim is the Original Indiana Jones. He was an interesting character from the twenties and thirties who lead expeditions for the American Museum of Natural History to the Gobi desert in search of Dinosaur bones.

Revenge of the Whale: The true story of the Whaleship Essex - Nathaniel Philbrick - The true story that Herman Melville used as a basis for Moby Dick. Definitely a tragedy, but also a tale of endurance in the face of overwhelming odds. Whaleship sunk by a mad whale and then three months in a long boat, slowly starving to death. Not cool.

Filling up the Afflictions of Christ - John Piper - A bio of three men who gave their all for Christ, William Tyndale: Martyr who Translated of the Bible into English; John Paton: early missionary to the New Hebrides Islands; and Adoniram Judson: Early missionary to Burma.

the Hidden Smile of God - John Piper - A bio of John Bunyan, William Cowper and David Brainerd and the way God uses afflictions, trials and turmoil to spread His Kingdom in our lives and in the world.

the Legacy of Sovereign Joy - John Piper - A bio of Augustine, Luther and John Calvin.

Midshipman Bolitho - Alexander Kent - First Book in the Richard Bolitho series about a British Captain in the late 1700's.
In Gallant Company - Alexander Kent - Book three in the Richard Bolitho series about a British Captain in the late 1700's.
Sloop of War - Alexander Kent - Book four in the Richard Bolitho series about a British Captain in the late 1700's.

Sharpe's Tiger - Bernard Cornwell - Napoleonic wars. British in India.
Sharpe's Triumph - Bernard Cornwell - Battle of Assaye, India
Sharpe's Fortress - Bernard Cornwell - Siege of Gawilghur, India

Out Of My Mind - Sharon M. Draper - An eleven year old cerebral paralysis girl cannot speak, but is brilliant. Very realistic fiction and a must read for every intermediate and middle-schooler.

Fahrenheit 451 - Ray Bradbury - Oops, its too late. It has already come true, except for the nuclear war bit.

Out Of The Silent Planet - C.S. Lewis - First in the series. Normal dude is abducted and taken to a local planet. There he learns that the Bible is true.

Perelandra - C.S. Lewis - Ransom the hero travels to an "unfallen" planet where its' first two people have a choice to make.

That Hideous Strength - C.S. Lewis - The third in His space trilogy. Definitly the most mature of the three. The beginning is hideously slow, but it picks up nicely half way through. Merlinus Ambrosium makes an appearance at England's darkest hour.

Patriots - David Drake - A sci-fi retelling of the battle of Fort Ticonderoga during the Revolutionary War. Ethan Allen and all that. Nice, clean and full of good family values.

Dune - Frank Herbert - Everyone has heard of this one. Just think... all religions combined into one... anyway well written sci-fi religious messiah stuff.

By Any Means - Charley Boorman - Another travel around the world book. Easy reading with trains, planes, motor vehicles and motorcycles. Oooh, look there is another one.

Are You My Friend?

2010-09-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

The two kindergartner girls were strolling toward the playground. Running to catch up, a third child grabbed their arms and said in the saddest voice, "Are you my friend? Are you my friend?"

The two girls replied, "Yes, we're your friend. Can you let go our arms."

A true friend never gets in your way unless you happen to be going down.
Arnold H. Glasow

It is one of the blessings of old friends that you can afford to be stupid with them.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Teachers...What Do You Make?

2010-08-28T09:29:00.000-07:00

Now go out there and make a difference teachers, homeschool moms and dads, and anyone else who TEACHES.

Twenty-five Percent Equals Thirty-three Percent

2010-08-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Twenty-five is 25% larger than twenty.

Twenty-five students means more 25% more potty requests,
25% more "will you tie my shoelaces"
and 25% more "I'm thirsty".

With twenty children it takes me two days to listen to each student read and determine what skills they need to become successful for the next grade.

With twenty-five children it take three days to assess the whole class, 33% longer.

I hope I do not have my paycheck reduced by 33%.

Here is to a great new school year.

George and George

2010-07-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

From the Deleware official website is this:

Little Known Facts about the American Revolutionary War

King George almost abdicated the throne when the British lost!

After Yorktown, George III vowed to keep fighting. When parliament demurred, the King wrote a letter of abdication -- then withdrew it. He tried to console himself with the thought that Washington would become a dictator and make the Americans long for royal rule. When he was told that Washington planned to resign his commission, the monarch gasped: "If he does that, sir, he will be the greatest man in the world."

Neck Xray

2010-07-01T12:40:00.000-07:00

Everything is healing okay. Today's ex-ray shows the plate and the three screws holding my vertebrae together(bright white pieces, like the letter m on its side) and if you look close, between the screws, you can see the the small cages with bone that has been added as a spacer for the vertebrae to keep the nerve clear.

Self-Portrait

2010-06-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

I am sick of this stupid neck brace and it has only been one week.

Rockin' the Dad Life

2010-06-29T14:51:00.001-07:00

Drug Induced Dreams

2010-06-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

He had the poor cat buried in the kitty litter box.

I saw him.

He had kitty poop and litter spread all over his body and the poor kitty was struggling to get away.

I saw him.

I yelled, but he wouldn't stop, so I started smacking him on the head.

Then I woke up.

No more morphine, vicodine, or codeine for me.

Spotlight On The Arts

2010-06-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

-Chad Frye, a school chum of Daisy wrote:

I’ve noticed a certain sense of entitlement amongst people in America. They have to be first.
click here to read more and see great pics.

Old Man Comes Home from Hospital

2010-06-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

http://daisyhomeschoolblog.blogspot.com/2010/06/what-difference-day-or-two-can-make.html

Homemade Catapult

2010-06-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

A little scrap wood, a dowel, pipe cap, string, some screws and a donated bicycle inner tube.

The sides are attached with wood glue and four screws for each side. On the arm, the cup is attached with two washers and a small bolt so it can be replaced with something lighter if need be.

The rubber strap attached to the dowel limits the forward motion.

The rubber strap is tied in place. The two screws on the base and on the base of the firing arm have a small bit of soaker hose on them to protect the rubber strap. The rubber strap is in place and almost ready for firing.

The string is here to end the forward motion. It has some knots in it for adjusting the launch arc.

Here is Dragonfly launching a Ping Pong ball. Ping Pong balls do not break windows. Eggs add excitement to the event as we found out later.

Anterior Cervical Discectomy?

2010-06-21T17:03:00.000-07:00

Surgery:

No pain:

Vertebrae Fusion will commence Wednesday morning sometime. I have been prepping myself by watching the following video.

"Cervical surgery can be intimidating. This video animation explains how an Anterior Cervical Discectomy is performed and how the spine will heal from surgery."

My Favorite Animal

2010-05-28T19:18:00.000-07:00

My Mom sent this to me today. I love that women.

My Favorite Animal

Our teacher asked us what our favorite animal was, and I said, "Fried chicken." She said I wasn't funny, but she couldn't have been right, because everyone else in the class laughed.

My parents told me to always be truthful and honest, and I am. Fried chicken is my favorite animal. I told my dad what happened, and he said my teacher was probably a member of PETA. He said they love animals very much.

I do, too. Especially chicken, pork and beef. Anyway, my teacher sent me to the principal’s office. I told him what happened, and he laughed, too. Then he told me not to do it again.

The next day in class my teacher asked me what my favorite live animal was. I told her it was chicken. She asked me why, just like she'd asked the other children. So I told her it was because you could make them into fried chicken. She sent me back to the principal’s office again. He laughed, and told me not to do it again.

I don't understand. My parents taught me to be honest, but my teacher doesn't like it when I am. Today, my teacher asked us to tell her what famous person we admire most.

I told her, "Colonel Sanders."

Chick-fil-A

2010-05-20T19:25:00.001-07:00

It Was Probably Me

2010-05-19T19:55:00.001-07:00

Church Is Not like... #5

2010-05-13T15:29:00.000-07:00

..but sometimes we will teach a Sunday School Class or fill in for a teacher who is ill.

Sharing is Such Sweet Sorrow

2010-05-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

Listening to the smacking of gum is not enjoyable. The six year old boy, of course, believed that he was being sneaky.

ME: "Spit out the gum."

Offender: "What gum?"

Blank stare from me.

Offender: "He has some too." Pointing at the Dealer.

As he walked to the trashcan, I mistakenly asked where the gum came from.

Offender: "He gave it to me." Pointing at the Dealer again.

ME: "Where did the gum come from?"

Dealer: "I found it on the playground."

ME: "You found a pack of gum on the playground?"

Dealer: "No, just some gum."

ME: "You mean you found a piece of gum on the playground? Was it in a wrapper?"

Dealer: "No, it was all smashed up."

ME: "Do you mean, in a ball?"

Dealer: "Yeah."

ME: "Did you eat it?"
Dealer: : "No I chewed it.... but I shared it with him."
ME: "STOP. Don't tell me anymore. I am sorry I asked."

True story. Hopefully they will both get dewormed soon.

I Do Have An Anniversary Coming Up #2

2010-05-08T15:42:00.000-07:00

Of course I will not be able to ride it for a month after the surgery.

I Do Have An Anniversary Coming Up

2010-05-06T15:09:00.000-07:00

#4 Church is Not...

2010-05-05T15:09:00.000-07:00

a concert to entertain.

#3 Church is Not like...

2010-05-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

a feedlot.

#2 Church is like...

2010-05-03T15:10:00.000-07:00

grazing sheep under the watchful eye of the shepherd.

Church is like...

2010-05-02T11:04:00.000-07:00

Now go therefore into all the world...

When seconds count

2010-04-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

When seconds count, the police are only minutes away.

Why I carry

2010-04-29T16:43:00.000-07:00

... because police officers are too heavy to carry.

I got this joke from my father-in-law.

I Would appreciate prayer for My Pain in the Neck

2010-04-14T19:49:00.000-07:00

This is what my spine should look like.

The MRI shows a bulging disk and a squished nerve.

The end result is that here I am at 39

and I am feeling like Statler & Waldorf.

It could always be worse.

I could always look them.

Afflictions are Preparations?

2010-04-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

The winter prepares the earth for the spring, so do afflictions sanctified prepare the soul for glory. —Richard Sibbes

In mid February I awoke with back and arm pain.

After five days of useless pill popping
my wife suggested that I call the doctor.

Why? I love pain! I eat pain for breakfast!

The doctor said, "The ex-rays show that something is wrong
and you need to go see a different doctor
who knows about bones and disks and things like that.
Take these horse pills for the pain"
So after six weeks of waiting
I was able to see the Specialist and get an MRI scheduled.
Of course he told me to stop taking the pain meds
and gave me some anti-inflammation meds.
So now I am whining about the pain again.

Grace of God and Tombstones

2010-02-28T16:34:00.000-08:00

Bradford (1510 - 1555)

"'There, but for the grace of God, goes John Bradford." said John witnessing a fellow prisoner being lead to execution. After his two year imprisionment he and John Leaf(Lease) were themselves taken to Newcastle Prison where they were chained to a stake in preperation for their own execution. Turning to Leaf, Bradford said,

"Be of good comfort brother; for we shall have a merry supper with the Lord this night!"

Acquitted

2010-02-11T19:29:00.000-08:00

By the righteousness of faith we are acquitted from sin,

and by the righteousness of works we are acquitted from hypocrisy.

Thomas Manton - Puritan (1620-1677)

Packed with Reality

2010-02-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

"If we do not preach about sin and God's judgment on it, we cannot present Christ as Savior from sin and the wrath of God. And if we are silent about these things, and preach a Christ who saves only from self and the sorrows of this world, we are not preaching the Christ of the Bible. Such preaching may soothe some, but it will help nobody; for a Christ who is not seen and sought as a Savior from sin will not be found to save from self or from anything else."
J. I. Packer

#1 Reason To Homeschool Through College

2010-01-19T20:41:00.000-08:00

It takes a special place to create such a wonderful work of art.

That's Why I Chose Yale - A You Tube Video.

I Cannot Eat That: Why We Homeschool # 5

2010-01-18T19:39:00.000-08:00

A teacher has made the fateful decision
to eat school lunches everyday during 2010.
Her blog and pictures make the adventure come alive.

Her first post states that
"Oftentimes what is served barely passes muster
as something edible."
She has also included pictures of the gourmet meals for our enjoyment,
if not for hers.

Yum, Yum, Yum!

Ike To The Rescue

2010-01-17T19:52:00.000-08:00

My niece is on this little boat.

USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, At Sea (NNS) -- Only hours after departing for its 2010 deployment, Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) diverted from flight operations to assist the U.S. Coast Guard in a rescue at sea the night of Jan. 2, saving the life of a stranded mariner.

I Knew They Would Come For My Kind

2010-01-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

School Teacher Arrested

A public school teacher was arrested today at John F. Kennedy International Airport as he attempted to board a flight while in possession of a ruler, a protractor, a compass, a slide-rule and a calculator.

At a morning press conference, the Attorney General said he believes " the man is a member of the notorious Al-Gebra movement. " He did not identify the man, who has been charged by the FBI with carrying weapons of math instruction. Read the whole story here

Horton is Not an Elephant

2010-01-08T19:45:00.001-08:00

I am halfway through Christless Christianity, and this quote really hit me.

"The church exists in order to
change the subject from us and our deeds
to God and his deeds of salvation,
from our various missions to save the world
to Christ's mission
that has already accomplished redemption.
He sends us into the world, to be sure, but not to save it.
Rather, he sends us into the world
to witness to Christ as the only Savior..."
(Horton, Christless Christianity, page 141)

Why We Homeschool #4

2010-01-06T19:33:00.000-08:00

I received the following email today from the Education Powers That Be.
The important parts are highlighted in red.
The gist of the whole thing is "NO CLASS PETS"

*The Center for Disease Control has announced an outbreak of human Salmonella associated with water frogs in 31 states including California. Amphibians such as frogs and reptiles such as turtles, are recognized as a source of human Salmonella infections. This outbreak has been associated due to contact with water frogs including African Dwarf Frogs. Water frogs commonly live in aquariums or fish tanks.

It is important for the protection of health and safety of students and staff that Board Policy 400.57 be followed, specific that:

“All animals brought to school must be:

1. In good physical condition;

2. Vaccinated against transmittable diseases;

3. In clean, safe and suitable cages or containers or otherwise appropriately controlled;

4. Accompanied by a statement from a California licensed veterinarian that certifies that the animal is free from all communicable diseases and suitable for children of the age range of the animal’s intended classroom placement (Administrative Regulation 400.57, p. 1) .

In addition the following hygiene practices are recommended to be followed:

Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching any amphibian (e.g., frog) or reptile (e.g, turtle), their housing, or anything (for example, food) that comes in contact with them or their housing. Adults should assist young children with hand washing.
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after cleaning habitats.
Amphibians (e.g., frogs) and reptiles (e.g., turtles) should not be kept in child-care centers.
Do not allow amphibians or reptiles to roam freely through the classroom, especially in food preparation areas.
Keep amphibians and reptiles out of kitchens and other areas where food and drink is prepared or served to prevent contamination.
Habitats and their contents should be carefully cleaned outside of the classroom. Use disposable gloves when cleaning and do not dispose of water in sinks used for food preparation or for obtaining drinking water.
Do not bathe animals or their habitats in sinks where food is prepared or drinking water is obtained.
Children aged <5>
Watch for symptoms of Salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. Call your health care provider if you or a family member have any of these symptoms

Additionally, it is strongly advised that water frogs and other amphibians not be allowed at school until this outbreak can be contained.*

This is one of our "classrooms" at home. You will notice the animal "helping" my daughter. This particular cat, Dora, is up to date on her shots, but does not have a statement from a California licensed veterinarian that she is free from communicable diseases. The vet did say that she is over-weight and needs a good teeth brushing.

Here is our backyard. Please notice my son's hand is actually touching(gasp) the chick. Again no vet cert is available upon request.
Come on, live a little.

Tombstones

2010-01-05T18:48:00.000-08:00

Two different reactions to death

"If we desire to end our days in joy and comfort, let us lay the foundation of a comfortable death now betimes. To die well is not a thing of that light moment as some imagine: it is no easy matter. But to die well is a matter of every day. Let us daily do some good that may help us at the time of our death. Every day by repentance pull out the sting of some sin, that so when death comes, we may have nothing to do but to die. To die well is the action of the whole life.";
Richard Sibbes, Puritan (1577-1635)

On his deathbed, the cattleman asks,
"What's that you always say Rafe?"
"Tis a poor thing to fear the inevitable"
"Who said it Rafe?"
"Someone who wasn't dying."
Louis L'amour - Crossfire Trail

Not So Common

2010-01-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

Why We Homeschool #3

We received my daughter's God's World News a few days ago. Yes, I know that it is for "Grades 4-5", but there are always interesting stories in it. One caught my eye, "Kicked Out". It describes how two children, one in Newark and the other in Delaware were suspended for bringing knives to school.

The first, a six year old, had joined the Cub Scouts and was wanting to try out his new tool at lunch, a folding knife with a fork and spoon. His sentence; 45 days of reform school. (Read the NY Times report)

The second was an eleven year old girl who brought a cake for her class and (gasp) a knife to cut it with. The teacher used the knife to cut the cake and then reported the girl to the office for bringing the knife to school. The State Police were even notified.(Read the NBC Chicago report)

At the end of the World News Article it stated that a Representative from Delaware's 23rd District introduced a bill to "allow school officials to use"... wait for it...

"common sense in such situations."

Really! We now need a law to use common sense. This is another reason why we homeschool.

Abraham Introduces John

2010-01-02T08:16:00.000-08:00

Papa Elf and Church Attendance

2009-12-30T14:55:00.000-08:00

We watched ELF again this Christmas. A human raised by Papa Elf, thinks he's an elf, acts like an elf, but doesn't really fit in at the workshop. Two elves talking remark, "If he hasn't figured out he's a human by now, he never will." Over-hearing this starts the great adventure to locate his real father who turns out to be on the Naughty List and not exactly a shining example of fatherhood.

Throughout the movie we see repeated examples of his "Elf" upbringing; positive attitude, innocence, kindness, friendliness, and a great ability to cut out snowflakes.

My point? Upbringing is important. More specifically, fathers are important.
In Touchstone Magazine, Robbie Low reports on a study that found that children raised with church attending fathers were more likely to attend church as adults than if they came from homes where only the mother attended regularly. In fact, even if the father only attended sometimes, that child had a greater chance of attending church in their adulthood.

Father's Att.	Mother's Att.	Child's Att.
Regular	Regular	33%
Non-Practicing	Regular	2%
Regular	Irregular	38%
Regular	Non-Practicing	44%
Irregular	Non-Practicing	25%

(taken from Gospel-Powered Parenting)

Conclusion: Father's raising their kids to attend church is one thing. Raising them to love God is another. Reading the Bible, praying, having fellowship with other believers are all areas of our lives that can be taught and modeled to our children. If I do not place importance on these areas then why should my children?

So Yes, the burden is on me.

For families without a dad? As the the author of Gospel-Powered Parenting says,

"God is the God of the fatherless. Timothy was raised by his mother and grandmother, and yet he was great leader in the early church."

Fortunately, for us, God is bigger than us and our feeble attempts to raise the perfect family.

The Lady of the Manor

2009-12-28T08:50:00.000-08:00

Of course she is tired now, the sun is up.

I have become a slave in my own home. Early each morning, between the awful hours of 3:00 and 5:00, I am disturbed. First the small, whiskered face, with the cold nose shoved into mine. Then the trilled purr in my ear. Then the scratching of the bed posts. A thrown pillow only offers a short silence... next the small rude Prima Donna is walking over my head. Finally, that hairy, shedding, furball-hacking monster is turning on the radio. Why was the "sleep" button ever invented? Oh, now I know! So that crazy felines can up the ante and drag me from my warm bed.

I stumble down the hall, muttering... open the container... scoop the food into the bowls... nothing... the cat isn't even in sight... I look in the living room... there she is, staring at me, from under the Christmas Tree... (I am going to have to put that tree back in storage)... she wants to play... NO... I return to the food bowls... I whistle and the Lady of the Manor's sister strolls in, followed by bold, head held high, Queen of this domain, "Yes, you may go now, but you shall be punished later for your insolence", she dismisses me with a shake of her tail.

I hate that thing this early in the morning. I wickedly slide shut the doors, locking her in the kitchen. I return to bed for a few more hours of sleep... only to be awoken by scratching at the door as she demands her subjects pay obeisance...

Repost from the beginning

2009-12-27T12:01:00.000-08:00

Four thousand or so years ago Job said to God, "You put my feet in the stocks, And watch closely all my paths. You set a limit for the soles of my feet."Job 33:11 Jesus is the Trail Boss. He chooses the path, the watering holes and where the chuckwagon will set up for the night. In our culture of independence, that chafes. Time to get over it.

Give Thanks

2009-11-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

First of all, then,
I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions,
and thanksgivings be made for all people,
for kings and all who are in high positions,
that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life,
godly and dignified in every way.
This is good,
and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,
who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men,
the man Christ Jesus,
who gave himself as a ransom for all,
which is the testimony given at the proper time.

(1 Timothy 2:1-6)

I grew up in a thankful house. This picture hung on the wall by the dinner table. At Thanksgiving, I remember everyone sitting at the table talking, catching up on each others lives and eating, but mostly I remember this picture and the normal, everyday meals.

Lesson Learned?

2009-11-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

When I was a school aged child I had the advantage of experiencing natural consequences. Three of my friends and I wet balls of toilet paper and threw them at the ceiling of the bathroom. I was caught and was able to spend some quality time with the janitor. He watched as I used a long handled broom to knock down the toilet paper off the ceiling. Then he watched as I swept them into a dust pan and empty them into the trashcan. Then, he watched as I mopped the floor. Finally, he asked, "Did you learn your lesson?" I responded with a contrite, "Yes, sir"

This week a first grade student of mine spit food through a straw at other students. He was suspended for a day. He was not required to clean up the mess. He didn't even have to apologize to the other children. He was just sent home for the day.

What lesson did he learn?

At least once a month some child at my school floods the bathroom, or knocks over a trashcan. They usually say, "I don't know why", when asked why they did it. Then they are "appropriately" punished. Either a lost recess or a short suspension, but never do they have to clean up the mess.

What lesson do they learn?

Hammers and Work

2009-11-23T12:00:00.000-08:00

My son and I pounded nails today. Do you remember being seven years old and wanting to hit something with a hammer. Today was that day.

For three hours my son and I nailed siding and flooring for a Hands of Mercy house that will go to a hard working and very needy family outside of Ensenada, Mexico.

He said that hitting nails was like pushing worms back into their holes.

He then spent another hour cleaning up loose nails from the church parking lot where we worked. I am proud of that boy. He never once complained or gave up, even when those little nasty galvanized weaklings crumpled over and he had to pull them out and start over.

A little water

2009-11-16T18:42:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege of watching a friend's child be baptized this past Sunday.

Each time I witness this event, I am gladdened. Yes, "gladdened" is a real word. I look forward to the day when, God willing, my children get dunked.

Baptism is that public outward sign that a person has, "Believe(d) on the Lord Jesus Christ..." and is saved.

The Philippian Jailer Converted

About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas. Then he brought them out and said, “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God. (Act 16:25-34)

Why Farmers are the Heartbeat of America

2009-11-02T20:02:00.000-08:00

Wisdom, Portals and Abomination

2009-10-15T20:08:00.000-07:00

Sometimes children pick up phrases and words
that you do not really want them using
at the neighbor's house or in Sunday School.

During our devotions tonight, my daughter was reading the beginning of Proverbs 8. When she finished she had some questions about some of the words.

"What are Portals?"
"What does Prudence mean?"
"What does Abomination mean?"

After hearing us explain the meanings she made this statement:
"I thought Abomination was the name of our government."
No, dear, that is Obama Nation.

The Blessings of Wisdom

Does not wisdom call?
Does not understanding raise her voice?
On the heights beside the way,
at the crossroads she takes her stand;
beside the gates in front of the town,
at the entrance of the portals she cries aloud:
“To you, O men, I call,
and my cry is to the children of man.
O simple ones, learn prudence;
O fools, learn sense.
Hear, for I will speak noble things,
and from my lips will come what is right,
for my mouth will utter truth;
wickedness is an abomination to my lips.
All the words of my mouth are righteous;
there is nothing twisted or crooked in them.
(Proverbs 8:1-8)

Swientific

2009-10-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

I was recently informed that each time a child is absent from school their parents are contacted for a reason. If the parents say their child has a cough and a fever a tally mark is made on a handy pad of paper. This count is then forwarded to the district nurse, who then tally's up the districts count of "cough with fever". This is then sent to the County Health Dept. who use this number to tally just how many individuals have the H1N1 virus.

Sounds scientific to me.

Subtraction

2009-10-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

Twenty-one minus seven is... a teacher at ease.
Twenty-one minus seven is... small groups all day long.
Twenty-one minus seven is... reading one on one with each child.
Twenty-one minus seven is... one third of the class out with some type of sickness.

Today was a peaceful day, except for the one child who used descriptive language on the playground and then borrowed my favorite stamp.

Flu season has an upside... at work. Too bad I brought it home to the family.

Carry Me

2009-10-07T19:52:00.001-07:00

... but maybe not so roughly.

The Teacher, the Hothead, and the Negotiator

2009-10-01T18:46:00.000-07:00

I present the following conversation between a teacher, a boy, and a girl...

Scene: First grade public school classroom, this A.M.

Teacher, "You just lost your recess, we do not hit girls."

Boy, "...but she hit me first!"

Teacher, "We do not hit girls."

Teacher queries the girl. "So... why did you hit him?"

Girl, "He wouldn't get out of my way!"

Teacher, "So you punched him, because he would not get out of your way?"

Girl, "Yeah!"

Teacher, "Well in that case you lose your recess also."

She pondered this a moment, gazed thoughtfully up at the ceiling, and then looking the teacher straight in the eye said, "You know.. um... I think maybe he and I can work this out."

Teacher, "You know, dear, I do believe you can, right here, in this room, during recess. Okay, time for math."

If she was in high school and I was her guidance counselor I would strongly encourage a career as a Negotiator.

Self-Incriminating Evidence

2009-09-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

Scene: Public School Office, this A.M.

The Recess Duty Teacher brought in the two boys.

The first was crying and holding his hands over his left eye. With no bodily fluids leaking forth, I asked the teacher what happened.

She replied, "He punched him... in the eye."

The second boy exclaimed, "I did not hit him, I didn't shove him, I did nothing... besides he did it too."

Proverbs 19:5 A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape.

Only for the Moral

2009-09-09T17:37:00.000-07:00

"We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." John Adams from his Oct. 13, 1789 address to the military.

Trashcans and Self-control

2009-08-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

Flu Season is here. I can tell. The first week of school is completed and two children have already missed school due to illness.

I love when parents keep their sickies home, but it is a joy to my heart when a child jumps out of their chair, dashes through the maze of desks and reaches the wastebasket before releasing their breakfast. Self-control is a wonderful thing.

Bragging

2009-08-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

My niece is in the Navy. The following is from her base's newspaper.

Sailors immortalize VFA-106 history on mural
By Cathy Heimer, Jet Observer

The rich history of the “Gladiators” has been immortalized by a pair of talented Sailors, who used their art talents to showcase more than 63 years of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 106.

Face of God

2009-08-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (Hebrews 13:2)

Ever since her mother’s death in 1985, Mary Ellen has been living on the streets. Her only belongings are tightly wrapped in discarded plastic bags to prevent them from getting wet or being chewed on by rodents in the night. Badly in need of a bath and wholesome meal, Mrs. McCord still refused to accept my money—she simply asked that I would provide her a meal and a few moments of my time.

To read the rest of the story and see the incredible photograph of Mary Ellen, please visit my brother-in-law's blog.

Building a Tomb for Pharaoh

2009-08-02T18:30:00.000-07:00

Monomorium Pharaonis

Pharaoh ants require special treatment.
If you spray for these ants you'll just scatter them throughout your home.

So, Yes I sprayed, because we have been battling Ants of one kind or another all summer, and all ants are the same.(Does that sound "specist"?) I run the sprinklers for them outside, but they prefer the water from the faucet inside with a side of canola oil from the side of the oil bottle. Have they scattered. I do not know. I do know that they refuse to take the bait I have put out for them that specifically says, "Attracts Pharaoh ants." Apparently they can not read.

I suppose I shall have to resort to just smashing the little guys with my thumb.

Whitewashed

2009-07-29T18:34:00.000-07:00

Apparently, when you paint over the paint in a little boy's room you need to do extensive sanding and cleaning or the blue paint will not bond. It will then commence to peel off in interesting designs revealing the paint from eight and half years ago.

The above shows the almost finished room, awaiting the rental of a steam cleaner.

Little boys are somewhat hard on carpets, especially when they leave a half eaten banana under their bed for several weeks before the dad finds it and almost launches his cookies in disgust.

Too Busy To Blog

2009-07-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

Me, my dust mask, my sander, and conservative talk radio. I'm good to go!

This is a huge job. I did break down and buy the palm sander.

See this junky peeling paint! Now I have to sand it all down and start over.

I'll be around eventually.

A Humane President

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

President Lincoln would be proud.

I cannot tell what this is. My cousins believes he is killing a polar bear.

56 Men

2009-07-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence?

*Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died.

*Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army;
another had two sons captured.

*Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War.

*They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor.

What kind of men were they?

Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, Nine were farmers and large
plantation owners; men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence
knowing full well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.

*Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the
British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags.

*Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost
constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding.
His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward.

Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of *Dillery, *Hall, *Clymer, *Walton, *Gwinnett,
*Heyward, *Ruttledge, and *Middleton.

At the battle of Yorktown, *Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had
taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington
to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.

*Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died
within a few months.

*John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives.
His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year he lived in forests and caves,
returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.

Remember: freedom is never free!

(Found somewhere on the internet)

Tribulus Terrestris

2009-06-03T15:46:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day with the family. Riding the bike path alongside the dry river bed. Enjoying the flowers, and their...

THORNS!!

Slowly, methodically checking for any nice Tribulus Terrestris Spinae left to puncture the new tube on my daughter's bicycle.

For Whom Shall We Mourn

2009-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is an appropriate response to the Tiller tragedy by Vision Forum Ministries:

(click on the text below to view the complete article)

George Tiller is dead. For whom shall we mourn?

First, we mourn for the many children he murdered whose names will never make headline news, but whose murder were painful, violent, and bloody at the hands of this man. Second, we mourn for the future children who may be killed as a result of the way the pro-abortion movement will capitalize on this unlawful killing. Third, we mourn for a nation that has broken covenant with God, and that is deserving of God’s just wrath for its complicity in child sacrifice.

Finally, our mourning must lead us to prayer for the Church. God forbid that the blood of the innocent would be on our hands. If we would humble ourselves before the Lord and simply refuse to tolerate abortion in our own ranks, who knows what great things might be lawfully done, with God’s blessing, to bring murderers like George Tiller to an appropriate and earthly justice?

The Power of His Voice

2009-05-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

The voice of the Lord makes the deer give birth,

And strips the forests bare;

And in His temple everyone says,

"Glory!"

Psalms 29:9

The Gift of Poverty, Disgrace, and Misery

2009-05-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Whatsoever is good for God's children they shall have it,
for all is theirs to further them to heaven;

therefore, if poverty be good, they shall have it;

if disgrace be good, they shall have it;

if crosses be good, they shall have them;

if misery be good, they shall have it;

for all is ours, to serve for our greatest good.

Richard Sibbes 1577 - 1635

For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness
to those who have been trained by it.
Therefore lift your drooping hands and
strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet,
so that what is lame may not be put out of joint
but rather be healed.
(Hebrews 12:11-13)

Richard Sibbes is Dead

2009-05-19T16:01:00.000-07:00

Born over 400 years ago Richard Sibbes, "The Sweet Dropper", dedicated his life to God and the edification of the believers and followers of Christ.

“When struggling against the corruptions of our own hearts,

buffeted by temptations, and mourning over the weakness of our faith,

and the coldness of our love,

let us still remember, that Christ will not break the bruised reed,

nor quench the smoking flax.

As Captain of our salvation, he combats

and conquers our rebellious inclinations,

as well as our outward and spiritual adversaries,

and hath furnished us with the shield of faith, wherewithal to defend ourselves,

and enable us to repel the fiery darts of the devil."

(Richard Sibbes, The Bruised Reed, 1630)

A Covenant

2009-05-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

My county has an average of 3,000 children in the foster care system during any given month. The orphanages of George Muller's day have gone out of favor, but the need is still there.

So what do you do with 3,000 children who have lost their parents or have been removed from their homes?

God directed one family to do something about this problem and in 2001, Covenant Community Services was created. It's mission is the “Placing (of) abused and neglected children in families that model the love of Jesus Christ." The mission is fulfilled as they recruit, train and certify foster families to provide safe, stable and loving homes for children to develop and grow in God’s love and grace.

What better place for an abused or neglected child than in the loving home of a Jesus loving family!

Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice,correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause.
(Isaiah 1:16-17)

Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to
visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. (James 1:27)

The Obama Effect on Test Scores

2009-05-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

The Obama Effect
NEA Today, May 2009

There's no doubt that the new President could help close the achievement gap in this country though the pursuit of sensible federal policies to support students and teachers. But a recent study, not yet published, suggests that his election alone--notwithstanding anything he might actually do as President--already has helped.

During the study, researchers gave a 20-question test to 472 Black and White test-takers. Before the election, there was a significant gap in scores. Immediately after, it was "statistically nonsignificant." "Obama is obviously inspirational," one of the researchers told The New York Times, and yet even they were surprised...

Wow! The One is truly amazing. Guess we don't need educational reform. President Obama has already solved the achievement gap problem. Maybe if patients touch the hem of his suit, we would solve the health care crisis also.

Do I even need to mention the statistical problems rife within this article? "Recent" study? Not yet published? Immediately? Significant versus statistically nonsignificant? This is the NEA's PROFESSIONAL journal.

Which End Is Up?

2009-05-08T16:24:00.000-07:00

#1

Which is the correct way to fly the Union Jack?

#2

How do I get banned from entry into the British Empire?

Jaquie Smith is the new King John, circa 1215 A.D. and she is banning American Citizens from stepping on British soil. Next step will be the overturning of the Magna Carta. I guess these United States are next in line.

Dead Men Do Tell

2009-05-05T21:15:00.000-07:00

John Newton, Clerk, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa,

was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ,

preserved, pardoned and appointed to preach the Faith he had

long laboured to destroy.

Directions are for Losers

2009-05-03T18:11:00.000-07:00

"Read each step carefully before starting. It is very important that each step of instruction is performed in the correct order. If these instructions are not followed in sequence, assembly difficulties or death will occur."

"Visit our website for assembly video clips."

"Never scoot your furniture on carpet."

I put together a new bookshelf for my daughter. A chance to be a hero. A chance to be a master engineer. A chance to mess up and put the colored backing on... backwards. Grey side up! Well, we did buy two, better luck next time.

Always read the directions.

I love those who love me,
and those who seek me diligently find me.
Riches and honor are with me,
enduring wealth and righteousness.
and my yield than choice silver.
I walk in the way of righteousness,
in the paths of justice,
granting an inheritance to those who love me,
and filling their treasuries.
Proverbs 8:17-21