Wanted: Volunteers to Parse the Bill
Posted at 8pm on Friday, January 16th 2009One of the additional features we want to add to ReadTheStimulus.org is more detail on the actual dollar amounts being appropriated in the bill text. But to do that, we
need to extract out all the individual appropriations and put them in a
spreadsheet. Unfortunately, there's just no way to do that automagically, and so
that means we have to brute force it: have real live humans manually read each
page of the document and enter in the dollar appropriations into a collaborative
spreadsheet.To that end, we're creating an online spreadsheet that can be edited by many folks simultaneously that we'll use to "crowdsource" the effort. If you have time this weekend and want to help out, please email us at
Friday, January 16, 2009
$825 Billion Stimulus Plan
You would think that any stimulus bill was meant to actually stimulate the economy. Not so with this Democrat-sponsored $825 billion boondoggle. You can read the bill at readthestimulus.org. There aren't any hidden earmarks which Obama promised to veto. No, there's just straight out pork called a stimulus. Read it and you will be infuriated about what our elected representatives are doing to this country. You can put lipstick on a pig, but it's still a pig. The sponsors of the site also would like your help:
Should We Want Obama to Succeed?
I hear a lot of conservatives and Republicans saying they want Obama to suceed, but I don't want him to be a success. Success for Obama means that he will be able to implement his liberal program. While that would be success for him, for the rest of us it means a loss of liberty and an expansion of government. It would mean universal government health care, which means rationing and long waits for even minor surgery for the rest of us. His success would mean throwing more money at education which will never reach the classroom. He will be successful at shutting down conservative talk radio. Perhaps the most troublesome "success" will be his policies that will make us the most vulnerable to terrorist attacks on our homeland.
In other words he will succeed at squashing everything conservatives stand for. So I hope he fails miserably and Republicans make a comeback in 2010 in order to stop his far-left agenda. But I do pray for wisdom for him.
In other words he will succeed at squashing everything conservatives stand for. So I hope he fails miserably and Republicans make a comeback in 2010 in order to stop his far-left agenda. But I do pray for wisdom for him.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Random Questions
These are the things I' been thinking about:
*Do you think Democrats know they are hypocritical?
*Why, in fast food restaurant restrooms, are employees told to wash their hands and then are provided only hand dryers? Do the powers that be understand that their employees with newly clean hands have to open the door with the disgustingly dirty handle? Whose was the genuis that came up with that?
*Why are there no purse hooks in mini-mart restrooms? I hate putting my purse on the dirty floor so I end up holding the straps in my mouth, which is precarious because if I happen to talk it would end up in the toilet.
*Why, with the supposed need to raise gas and cigarette taxes for bailouts and new entitlements, don't we raise taxes on alcohol?
*Why would anyone make a movie like "Swing Vote?" The Presidential election comes down to 1 vote? 1 person gets to decide? Why would anyone think, "Hey, this is a great idea for a movie - it could happen, you know!" I didn't see the movie - I just couldn't.
*And speaking of movies, I wonder: (1)Who thought a remake of Sabrina was a good idea? Did they really think someone else could play the roles of Humphrey Bogart and Audrey Hepburn? (2)Who thought another Indiana Jones moviewas a good idea? It was painful to watch Ford attempting to swashbuckle again after all these years. (3)Why do the good and entertaining movies come out in the summer and all the dark, violent movies at Christmas? (4)Why is Woody Allen still making movies? He hasn't made a good move in 20 years. (5)Who thought of putting Robert Downey, Jr. in "Ironman?" Give that guy a raise and an Oscar! And (6) What has given Hollywood the idea that we enjoy their acceptance speeches with their political viewpoints mixed in? Get on and get off - we all know you hate Bush.
*Why are gay men so flamboyant? They didn't used to be? And where did they pick it up? There mothers, their straight fathers? And why do they see the need to broadcast their sexual preference. I don't broadcast my heterosexuality so why do they have to broadcast theirs?
*Why do we allow people to vote when they have no idea what the issues are? Elections are not popularity contests.
*Why do people want to totally disgrace themselves on reality TV shows like "Bad Girls?" I don't watch the show, but I've seen the ads. And what kind of work do they expect to find after they leave the show? Banker? CEO? Minister?
*Why did Lindsay Lohan have to grow up?
*Why do gossip magazines trumpet "How _______ _____ lost weight," or "How ________ ________ stays thin?"Chances are that any diet/exercise program they claim to be following is not the whole story. Besides it's so easy for them because they have personal trainers and housekeepers who cook for them. They should live my life.
*Will Bravo TV ever create another reality show that's not a clone of Project Runway? Please - a little originality!
*Why hasn't Kate Winslett won an Oscar, yet? She turns in incredible performances movie after movie. She gets nominated every year, but has never won. This may be her year, though.
*How do Ebay sellers get all these brand new electronic items that are "New In Box" (NIB) and never opened? This Christmas I was trying to find a Wii Fit, but no store had one. Not one. None. Nada. But I go on Ebay and there are hundreds of them; brand new; in original packaging and more than what would be in a store, if a store had them. I'd like to know where they shop.
*Why does Lifetime TV show 2 episodes of the "Golden Girls" every stinking night? Even 1 episode is too much. I'm exposed to this because I watch "Fraiser" which is on before. And I can't change the channel fast enough before that stupid song starts playing . . . "Thank you for being my friend . . ." There must be another syndicated show they can get. Enough already!
That's all for now. If anyone can answer any of the above, let me know.
*Do you think Democrats know they are hypocritical?
*Why, in fast food restaurant restrooms, are employees told to wash their hands and then are provided only hand dryers? Do the powers that be understand that their employees with newly clean hands have to open the door with the disgustingly dirty handle? Whose was the genuis that came up with that?
*Why are there no purse hooks in mini-mart restrooms? I hate putting my purse on the dirty floor so I end up holding the straps in my mouth, which is precarious because if I happen to talk it would end up in the toilet.
*Why, with the supposed need to raise gas and cigarette taxes for bailouts and new entitlements, don't we raise taxes on alcohol?
*Why would anyone make a movie like "Swing Vote?" The Presidential election comes down to 1 vote? 1 person gets to decide? Why would anyone think, "Hey, this is a great idea for a movie - it could happen, you know!" I didn't see the movie - I just couldn't.
*And speaking of movies, I wonder: (1)Who thought a remake of Sabrina was a good idea? Did they really think someone else could play the roles of Humphrey Bogart and Audrey Hepburn? (2)Who thought another Indiana Jones moviewas a good idea? It was painful to watch Ford attempting to swashbuckle again after all these years. (3)Why do the good and entertaining movies come out in the summer and all the dark, violent movies at Christmas? (4)Why is Woody Allen still making movies? He hasn't made a good move in 20 years. (5)Who thought of putting Robert Downey, Jr. in "Ironman?" Give that guy a raise and an Oscar! And (6) What has given Hollywood the idea that we enjoy their acceptance speeches with their political viewpoints mixed in? Get on and get off - we all know you hate Bush.
*Why are gay men so flamboyant? They didn't used to be? And where did they pick it up? There mothers, their straight fathers? And why do they see the need to broadcast their sexual preference. I don't broadcast my heterosexuality so why do they have to broadcast theirs?
*Why do we allow people to vote when they have no idea what the issues are? Elections are not popularity contests.
*Why do people want to totally disgrace themselves on reality TV shows like "Bad Girls?" I don't watch the show, but I've seen the ads. And what kind of work do they expect to find after they leave the show? Banker? CEO? Minister?
*Why did Lindsay Lohan have to grow up?
*Why do gossip magazines trumpet "How _______ _____ lost weight," or "How ________ ________ stays thin?"Chances are that any diet/exercise program they claim to be following is not the whole story. Besides it's so easy for them because they have personal trainers and housekeepers who cook for them. They should live my life.
*Will Bravo TV ever create another reality show that's not a clone of Project Runway? Please - a little originality!
*Why hasn't Kate Winslett won an Oscar, yet? She turns in incredible performances movie after movie. She gets nominated every year, but has never won. This may be her year, though.
*How do Ebay sellers get all these brand new electronic items that are "New In Box" (NIB) and never opened? This Christmas I was trying to find a Wii Fit, but no store had one. Not one. None. Nada. But I go on Ebay and there are hundreds of them; brand new; in original packaging and more than what would be in a store, if a store had them. I'd like to know where they shop.
*Why does Lifetime TV show 2 episodes of the "Golden Girls" every stinking night? Even 1 episode is too much. I'm exposed to this because I watch "Fraiser" which is on before. And I can't change the channel fast enough before that stupid song starts playing . . . "Thank you for being my friend . . ." There must be another syndicated show they can get. Enough already!
That's all for now. If anyone can answer any of the above, let me know.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Bobby Jindal: The Next President?
I just read an interview by Cal Thomas with Governor Bobby Jindal of Louisiana. Jindal has a lot of advice for the Republican Party and he has the credibility and integrity to back it up. He is a former congressman who ran for governor after the state's Katrina response disaster. Louisiana's political system has been entrenched in corruption for decades. The corruption was never more visible than in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Jindal campaigned on getting rid of the corruption in government, and this traditionally Democrat state elected him, a Republican.
He is a rising star in the Republican Party. Had he not been so adamant about seeing the job through to the end, he might have ended up on McCain's ticket instead of Governor Palin. Instead he's implementing real change that helps real people. There's been a lot of talk about him, along with Palin, being the future of the party. He is a true conservative - something we've been missing lately with a few exceptions. The future looks good for him and in turn, us.
His last statement needs to be the rallying cry for the Republican Party:
He is a rising star in the Republican Party. Had he not been so adamant about seeing the job through to the end, he might have ended up on McCain's ticket instead of Governor Palin. Instead he's implementing real change that helps real people. There's been a lot of talk about him, along with Palin, being the future of the party. He is a true conservative - something we've been missing lately with a few exceptions. The future looks good for him and in turn, us.
His last statement needs to be the rallying cry for the Republican Party:
"We will deserve to be a majority party again when we show the
American people we are competent, we truly believe the principles we espouse and we've got relevant solutions to the things they care about, whether it's the economy, health care, international terrorism."
Obamacare Will be Ted Kennedy’s Legacy
This just in: Senators on both sides of the aisle as well as operatives on K Street were candid that [Ted] Kennedy’s half-century push for universal health care could receive a boost because of his brain cancer diagnosis and the accompanying understanding that his days in the Senate could be limited.
Once again lawmakers basing decisions on emotions rather than the facts. They want to honor Ted Kennedy by bankrupting the nation. How about a gold watch instead? You can read the whole thing at the link above.
Once again lawmakers basing decisions on emotions rather than the facts. They want to honor Ted Kennedy by bankrupting the nation. How about a gold watch instead? You can read the whole thing at the link above.
Clinton Nomination Hearings
I was checking out Michelle Malkin's blog today. She was live-blogging Hillary Clinton's nomination hearing for Secretary of State. It was a love-fest according to Malkin with the Republicans trying to one-up the Democrats in the "We love you more than they do" game.
Why is it that Republican Senators have to always make nice, compromise, give in to the Democrats? They campaign around their states on profound differences with their Democratic opponents, yet when they get back to Washington, those differences don't seem so different anymore. They are not all like that. Senators Cornyn (R-TX), DeMint (R-NC), Inhofe (R-OK), Coburn (R-OK) and a few others usually don't just go along with the flow. They are not what I call "pragmatic Republicans." (Please note that I did mention my own Senator, John McCain above. As far as I'm concerned he's the worst offender of them all.)
There are issues regarding Bill Clinton's global foundation donors, which were just made public, and Hillary's actions on behalf of some of those donors as a Senator. These issues cannot be ignored. Will she make concessions to Saudi Arabia because they donated millions to Bill's foundation? If not asked and not answered clearly and transparently, we will not know for sure. How can she distance herself from Bill's donors while negotiating with them? Personally I don't think she can. But though the questions might be asked, the vague platitudes will never will questioned by Senate members.
I cannot watch these hearings. Spineless Republicans don't want to say anything that might be interpreted as offending "their good friend" Senator Clinton. Even at the cost of possible US security. This is not the case with Democrats. Did you watch them try to take Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito apart during their hearings? They don't care if Republicans like them or not unless, of course, they want a concession from them. Offending the Bush nominees for federal offices has been standard operating procedure for them.
I don't expect Republicans to "offend" although tough questions and follow-ups are now equated with victimizing a person or hurting their feelings. I do expect them to ask the tough questions that are in the best interest of this country and the people.
I suspect they will fall all over themselves fawning and gushing over every one of Obama's nominees. I expect that all of his nominees will be confirmed. Even those who might do us more harm than good.
Why is it that Republican Senators have to always make nice, compromise, give in to the Democrats? They campaign around their states on profound differences with their Democratic opponents, yet when they get back to Washington, those differences don't seem so different anymore. They are not all like that. Senators Cornyn (R-TX), DeMint (R-NC), Inhofe (R-OK), Coburn (R-OK) and a few others usually don't just go along with the flow. They are not what I call "pragmatic Republicans." (Please note that I did mention my own Senator, John McCain above. As far as I'm concerned he's the worst offender of them all.)
There are issues regarding Bill Clinton's global foundation donors, which were just made public, and Hillary's actions on behalf of some of those donors as a Senator. These issues cannot be ignored. Will she make concessions to Saudi Arabia because they donated millions to Bill's foundation? If not asked and not answered clearly and transparently, we will not know for sure. How can she distance herself from Bill's donors while negotiating with them? Personally I don't think she can. But though the questions might be asked, the vague platitudes will never will questioned by Senate members.
I cannot watch these hearings. Spineless Republicans don't want to say anything that might be interpreted as offending "their good friend" Senator Clinton. Even at the cost of possible US security. This is not the case with Democrats. Did you watch them try to take Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito apart during their hearings? They don't care if Republicans like them or not unless, of course, they want a concession from them. Offending the Bush nominees for federal offices has been standard operating procedure for them.
I don't expect Republicans to "offend" although tough questions and follow-ups are now equated with victimizing a person or hurting their feelings. I do expect them to ask the tough questions that are in the best interest of this country and the people.
I suspect they will fall all over themselves fawning and gushing over every one of Obama's nominees. I expect that all of his nominees will be confirmed. Even those who might do us more harm than good.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Hell Has Frozen Over
Unbelievably the Cardinals have made it to the NFC Championship game. After losing every regular season game on the east coast, they won one when it counted the most. The Carolina Panthers were picked by some to make it to the Super Bowl. Who would have put money on the Cardinals? I'm a die-hard Cowboys fan, but since they were not worthy of being anywhere near the playoffs, I've changed my allegiance (just for this season) to the Cardinals. Besides which, they play just a few miles from my house and I figured I should - I don't want to get my tires slashed!
They were never supposed to beat the Falcons to begin with. But the best news coming out of the win on Saturday was realizing that should Philly beat New York, the NFC championships would come to Arizona! Tickets were sold out in 6 minutes after the Philly-NY game. We're having a big party to watch the game ( if they are losing bad, though, we'll play Rock Band!)
The Cardinals are this year's "Little Engine that Could." Congratulations to the Cardinals -keep on chugging!
They were never supposed to beat the Falcons to begin with. But the best news coming out of the win on Saturday was realizing that should Philly beat New York, the NFC championships would come to Arizona! Tickets were sold out in 6 minutes after the Philly-NY game. We're having a big party to watch the game ( if they are losing bad, though, we'll play Rock Band!)
The Cardinals are this year's "Little Engine that Could." Congratulations to the Cardinals -keep on chugging!
2009 Prediction Update
I finally got one right: The Cowboys released Pacman Jones. I'm 1 for 3 and on a roll!
Eric Holder, Next Attorney General?
Eric Holder, Janet Reno's #2 at the Justice Department during the Clinton Administration, has been nominated for Attorney General by Obama. The problem is his past decisions as Reno's #2. From the Elian Gonzalez deportation to Cuba to the tragedy at the Branch Davidian compound to the pardons of Puerto Rican terrorists, his involvement makes him unqualified to be the next Attorney General.
Pragmatic Republican Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) says he'll back Holder because he happens to like Obama and thinks he should give Obama the benefit of the doubt. "I like Barack Obama and want to help him if I can." This is exactly the problem with these pragmatic Republicans - they make decisions based on emotions rather than the facts. Senator Hatch demonstrates that he doesn't really care about qualifications or representing the will of the people, he wants Obama to like him. (To paraphrase Stuart Smalley: "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, Obama likes me.")
What we can do about this. (1) Contact Senator Hatch at (202) 224- 5251 and http://hatch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Offices.Contact. Tell him why he should block Holder's nomination by presenting the facts about Holder. Please be polite and not emotional. Just explain why you oppose his position. (2) Contact Republican Minority Leader, Senator Mitch McConnell (who does not support Holder) at (202) 224-2541 and http://mcconnell.senate.gov/contact_form.cfm. Thank him for his position and ask him to pressure Senator Hatch. (3) Contact Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ), minority Whip, at (202) 224-4521 and http://kyl.senate.gov/contact.cfm and ask him to also pressure Senator Hatch. As minority Whip it is his job to bring Republican Senators in line with the party's position. And (4) Keep contacting them to keep the pressure on. They do respond to these contacts. If it hadn't been for citizens who opposed the immigration bill flooding the phone banks and email inboxes the bill would have become law. We changed the minds of our representatives. They listen.
Pragmatic Republican Senator Orrin Hatch (R-UT) says he'll back Holder because he happens to like Obama and thinks he should give Obama the benefit of the doubt. "I like Barack Obama and want to help him if I can." This is exactly the problem with these pragmatic Republicans - they make decisions based on emotions rather than the facts. Senator Hatch demonstrates that he doesn't really care about qualifications or representing the will of the people, he wants Obama to like him. (To paraphrase Stuart Smalley: "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, Obama likes me.")
What we can do about this. (1) Contact Senator Hatch at (202) 224- 5251 and http://hatch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Offices.Contact. Tell him why he should block Holder's nomination by presenting the facts about Holder. Please be polite and not emotional. Just explain why you oppose his position. (2) Contact Republican Minority Leader, Senator Mitch McConnell (who does not support Holder) at (202) 224-2541 and http://mcconnell.senate.gov/contact_form.cfm. Thank him for his position and ask him to pressure Senator Hatch. (3) Contact Senator Jon Kyl (R-AZ), minority Whip, at (202) 224-4521 and http://kyl.senate.gov/contact.cfm and ask him to also pressure Senator Hatch. As minority Whip it is his job to bring Republican Senators in line with the party's position. And (4) Keep contacting them to keep the pressure on. They do respond to these contacts. If it hadn't been for citizens who opposed the immigration bill flooding the phone banks and email inboxes the bill would have become law. We changed the minds of our representatives. They listen.
Twitter is a new internet service that allows you to follow specific people and vice-versa. For example, I'm following Karl Rove and he's following me. If you are interested in knowing where to find what's going on in the conservative realm I suggest you sign up at Twitter.com.
There is an Adobe PDF instruction on how best to use it. Find out about it at Twitter.com.
There is an Adobe PDF instruction on how best to use it. Find out about it at Twitter.com.
Jack Is Back!
It's been 2 years since we last saw Jack Bauer saving the free world. "24" was back last night and it started out with a bang. I thought the biggest surprise last night was (and I won't mention names for those who haven't seen it yet) a former good/dead guy back from the dead as a bad guy. Jack was shocked, too. The show began with Jack being grilled by a Senate panel about all the laws he's broken saving the free world. It was almost eerily realistic as these arrogant Senators who live in their ivory towers preach to Bauer about the rule of law being more important than saving the country. (Would they say the same thing if a terrorist dropped a nuclear suitcase off at their offices? I think not.) Back to the show.
The writers have changed Jack. CTU is gone as the FBI has taken over. So when the FBI subpeonas him, Jack has nothing to lose and doesn't care if they run with his input. He's probably going to prison after the Senate committee gets through with him. The FBI put a tight rein on him, however, they need to let him be Jack Bauer in order to "save the country" once again. It was good to see that Jack.
I thought last night's twist would last the viewers for a week or so, but no. Tonight's episode promises the biggest surprise, yet. Can't wait for that one! Welcome back, Jack!
Note: Check out Rick Moran's analysis of the new Jack at Rightwing Nuthouse: "Jack Bauer In a Post Bush World."
The writers have changed Jack. CTU is gone as the FBI has taken over. So when the FBI subpeonas him, Jack has nothing to lose and doesn't care if they run with his input. He's probably going to prison after the Senate committee gets through with him. The FBI put a tight rein on him, however, they need to let him be Jack Bauer in order to "save the country" once again. It was good to see that Jack.
I thought last night's twist would last the viewers for a week or so, but no. Tonight's episode promises the biggest surprise, yet. Can't wait for that one! Welcome back, Jack!
Note: Check out Rick Moran's analysis of the new Jack at Rightwing Nuthouse: "Jack Bauer In a Post Bush World."
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Posting Status
I have found it difficult to post lately because I'm addicted to Twitter! If you haven't signed up for Twitter and tweeted yet, I suggest you do. You pick people to tweet to and people pick you to tweet to. It's twitter heaven! You can go to http://twitter.com and sign up. One of the benefits is that there are links to relevant articles as well as updates on what's happening in the Republican Party. Join and start tweeting away.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Re: 2009 Predictions
Okay, I'll admit when I'm wrong. So far I've been wrong in two of my predictions: Oklahoma did not beat Florida. Florida was crowned last night as national champions when they beat Oklahoma. I really thought Oklahoma would win although I didn't root for them. How could a Texan root for Oklahoma? You know what 'Sooner' means: 'I'd sooner be in Texas than Oklahoma.' In Texas we call Oklahoma a suburb!
The second wrong prediction was that Jeb Bush is not going to run for Senate in Florida in 2010. I wonder if he thought it was just too soon for another Bush to run for public office. I hope he does run in 2012.
Those are so far two predictions I got wrong. We'll see about the rest.
The second wrong prediction was that Jeb Bush is not going to run for Senate in Florida in 2010. I wonder if he thought it was just too soon for another Bush to run for public office. I hope he does run in 2012.
Those are so far two predictions I got wrong. We'll see about the rest.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Republican Compromise
Mitch McConnell (Senate Minority Leader) has said that Senate Republicans may accept Obama's stimulus package in exchange for including the GOP and not rushing the bill. Well, why wait? The Democrats will do what they want anyway.
McConnell (R- Kentucky) barely won his re-election bid and Republicans have reaped the consequences of their "compromises" in the last two elections. I would have thought McConnell would have learned a lesson from Republican losses, but maybe that is too much to hope for.
The majority of the public don't want this "New Deal" package, yet instead of standing strong with the people, they grovel at the Democrats feet for a few bones. Haven't they learned that the Democrats always promise one thing to get Republican cooperation and then do what they want to anyway.
Republican lawmakers in the Senate (House Republicans are much more responsive to the people) naively keep doing the same thing, giving the Dems what they want believing the Dems will listen to them. It never happens. And they continue to lose seats and wonder why.
This is what causes me to lose faith in the Party. If I weren't a committed Republican I wouldn't vote any longer. I'll never vote for a Democrat and I know that not voting for the Republican candidate is a vote for the Democrat. I just can't do that, but I sure let the Republican Senators know about it. You can do the same thing by going to http://senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm. You can send an email to any Senator not like with the House where you can contact only your Representative. I did this (as millions did) during the immigration debate and it worked. McConnell was leaning toward the bill but came out against it after hearing from so many. So start contacting Senators to let them know when you are uphappy and when you are pleased with them. They need encouragement and praise as much as we do.
McConnell (R- Kentucky) barely won his re-election bid and Republicans have reaped the consequences of their "compromises" in the last two elections. I would have thought McConnell would have learned a lesson from Republican losses, but maybe that is too much to hope for.
The majority of the public don't want this "New Deal" package, yet instead of standing strong with the people, they grovel at the Democrats feet for a few bones. Haven't they learned that the Democrats always promise one thing to get Republican cooperation and then do what they want to anyway.
Republican lawmakers in the Senate (House Republicans are much more responsive to the people) naively keep doing the same thing, giving the Dems what they want believing the Dems will listen to them. It never happens. And they continue to lose seats and wonder why.
This is what causes me to lose faith in the Party. If I weren't a committed Republican I wouldn't vote any longer. I'll never vote for a Democrat and I know that not voting for the Republican candidate is a vote for the Democrat. I just can't do that, but I sure let the Republican Senators know about it. You can do the same thing by going to http://senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm. You can send an email to any Senator not like with the House where you can contact only your Representative. I did this (as millions did) during the immigration debate and it worked. McConnell was leaning toward the bill but came out against it after hearing from so many. So start contacting Senators to let them know when you are uphappy and when you are pleased with them. They need encouragement and praise as much as we do.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
A New Grandchild
My son and daughter-in-law told us that they were expecting another baby. We were thrilled and joyous at the news. My son posted on his blog how different the response was this time as compared to the first reaction. I didn't react well and was very angry the first time as I expressed my disappointment in him. He and his girlfriend were not married at the time and she was not yet a Christian (although she was a Republican). I attacked him and her. This time I recalled my last reaction with so much shame. I asked for forgiveness. I often react out of my emotions selfishly - thinking about me instead of the one in pain. I love my son and daughter-in-law. God's grace made it right between us. I am so blessed with such a family.
Friday, January 2, 2009
John Travolta's Son Dies
John Travolta has lost his 16-yo son in a tragic accident. Please pray for the family.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Predictions for 2009
These are random predictions for the next year. Maybe some of them will actually happen.
Sports:
* Oklahoma will beat Florida for the national championship.
* Tiger Woods will return to the PGA stronger and better than ever before and add more championships to his record.
* The University of Arizona football program will be dominant in the PAC 10 while Arizona State flounders. ASU head coach Dennis Ericson will be fired.
* The Detroit Lions will have a winning season and possibly go to the playoffs since they will have the easiest schedule.
* The Miami Dolphins will not make it to the playoffs because of the much harder schedule they will have.
* Brett Favre will retire and un-retire in a matter of months, maybe weeks.
Dallas Cowboys:
* Jerry Jones will continue to screw up the Cowboys by making more bad trades and draft picks.
* The Cowboys will let Brad Johnson go and sign a good back-up quarterback who will start when Tony Romo is benched in December.
* They will consider signing Brett Favre after he un-retires.
* Tony Romo will have more fumbles and interceptions than the last 3 years combined and will blame Jason Garrett, the offensive line, his receivers, Wade Phillips, the new stadium, the crowd, artificial turf, grass turf, the guys selling beer in the stadium, Barack Obama, traffic, inflation, products he endorses, crabgrass, rain, lightening, flies, but not Jessica Simpson!
* Wade Phillips will stay as head coach because it doesn't matter who the coach is, Jerry Jones still runs the team.
* Jason Garrett will sign with another team and be proclaimed an offensive genius since he won't be working for Jerry Jones anymore.
* T.O. will be re-signed; Pacman Jones will be gone.
* Right after the 2009 season Tony Romo will be traded and continue to have problems holding on to the ball with his new team. He will become a back-up quarterback and given the month of December off.
* Romo and Jessica Simpson will not get married.
Entertainment:
* Heath Ledger will deservedly win an Oscar for his role as the Joker in "The Dark Knight."
* Meryl Streep will win best actress Oscar for her role in "Doubt."
* Kate Winslett will, undeservedly, again not win an Oscar though she will be nominated in 2 acting categories.
* Tom Cruise's star power will continue to fade.
* Barack Obama will be named People magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" as well as Time's "Person of the Year."
Obama:
* Obama will be given credit for winning the war in Iraq.
* Obama will raise payroll taxes. Bush will be blamed.
* Obama will fire all US Attorneys including Patrick Fitzgerald as soon as he takes office.
* There will be no tax cuts this year. Bush will be blamed.
* There will be a minor terrorist attack on the homeland for which Bush will be blamed. Obama will let the UN handle it after waffling on what to do.
* Obama will send Hillary Clinton to the Middle East to broker a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, but in the end will fail as Hamas' goal is to destroy Israel.
* The mainstream media will continue its love affair with all things Obama and more and more of the public will turn to the internet for its news.
Politics:
* A form of universal health care will pass and we'll see the beginning of rationing.
* Joe Biden will continue to embarrass himself. Bush will be blamed.
* Hillary Clinton will make monthly appearances on the Sunday news shows while Joe Biden will be seen mostly at State funerals overseas.
* The Republican Party will get itself together and energize the conservative movement in time for the 2010 mid-term elections.
* Jeb Bush will announce he is running to replace Mel Martinez as Florida Senator.
* Congress will spend most of its time hauling Bush officials before investigative committees to try to get enough information to prosecute President Bush, VP Dick Cheney and Karl Rove.
* The economy will continue in recession until tax cuts are put in place, which won't happen in 2009. Bush will be blamed.
* Israel, knowing it can no longer depend on US support, will take pre-emptive actions against Iran and Syria.
*Newspapers circulations will continue to decline as advertisers move their ad dollars to alternative media. We'll see more newspapers dropping daily deliveries.
Personal:
* My husband and I will lose weight and our health will be restored.
* I will have a daily quiet time and do my Bible Study Fellowship homework on a daily basis instead of waiting until the day before.
* My husband and I will agree on a church to join and the Lord will lead me to serve in some way.
* I will be offered a job.
* I will still not be able to grow anything and more plants will needlessly die.
* I will learn to play drums on the expert level on Rock Band 2 and my kids will start letting me play it with them.
* Next Christmas I will not connect our Christmas Tree to "The Clapper" having learned my lesson this Christmas.
Sports:
* Oklahoma will beat Florida for the national championship.
* Tiger Woods will return to the PGA stronger and better than ever before and add more championships to his record.
* The University of Arizona football program will be dominant in the PAC 10 while Arizona State flounders. ASU head coach Dennis Ericson will be fired.
* The Detroit Lions will have a winning season and possibly go to the playoffs since they will have the easiest schedule.
* The Miami Dolphins will not make it to the playoffs because of the much harder schedule they will have.
* Brett Favre will retire and un-retire in a matter of months, maybe weeks.
Dallas Cowboys:
* Jerry Jones will continue to screw up the Cowboys by making more bad trades and draft picks.
* The Cowboys will let Brad Johnson go and sign a good back-up quarterback who will start when Tony Romo is benched in December.
* They will consider signing Brett Favre after he un-retires.
* Tony Romo will have more fumbles and interceptions than the last 3 years combined and will blame Jason Garrett, the offensive line, his receivers, Wade Phillips, the new stadium, the crowd, artificial turf, grass turf, the guys selling beer in the stadium, Barack Obama, traffic, inflation, products he endorses, crabgrass, rain, lightening, flies, but not Jessica Simpson!
* Wade Phillips will stay as head coach because it doesn't matter who the coach is, Jerry Jones still runs the team.
* Jason Garrett will sign with another team and be proclaimed an offensive genius since he won't be working for Jerry Jones anymore.
* T.O. will be re-signed; Pacman Jones will be gone.
* Right after the 2009 season Tony Romo will be traded and continue to have problems holding on to the ball with his new team. He will become a back-up quarterback and given the month of December off.
* Romo and Jessica Simpson will not get married.
Entertainment:
* Heath Ledger will deservedly win an Oscar for his role as the Joker in "The Dark Knight."
* Meryl Streep will win best actress Oscar for her role in "Doubt."
* Kate Winslett will, undeservedly, again not win an Oscar though she will be nominated in 2 acting categories.
* Tom Cruise's star power will continue to fade.
* Barack Obama will be named People magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive" as well as Time's "Person of the Year."
Obama:
* Obama will be given credit for winning the war in Iraq.
* Obama will raise payroll taxes. Bush will be blamed.
* Obama will fire all US Attorneys including Patrick Fitzgerald as soon as he takes office.
* There will be no tax cuts this year. Bush will be blamed.
* There will be a minor terrorist attack on the homeland for which Bush will be blamed. Obama will let the UN handle it after waffling on what to do.
* Obama will send Hillary Clinton to the Middle East to broker a peace deal between Israel and Hamas, but in the end will fail as Hamas' goal is to destroy Israel.
* The mainstream media will continue its love affair with all things Obama and more and more of the public will turn to the internet for its news.
Politics:
* A form of universal health care will pass and we'll see the beginning of rationing.
* Joe Biden will continue to embarrass himself. Bush will be blamed.
* Hillary Clinton will make monthly appearances on the Sunday news shows while Joe Biden will be seen mostly at State funerals overseas.
* The Republican Party will get itself together and energize the conservative movement in time for the 2010 mid-term elections.
* Jeb Bush will announce he is running to replace Mel Martinez as Florida Senator.
* Congress will spend most of its time hauling Bush officials before investigative committees to try to get enough information to prosecute President Bush, VP Dick Cheney and Karl Rove.
* The economy will continue in recession until tax cuts are put in place, which won't happen in 2009. Bush will be blamed.
* Israel, knowing it can no longer depend on US support, will take pre-emptive actions against Iran and Syria.
*Newspapers circulations will continue to decline as advertisers move their ad dollars to alternative media. We'll see more newspapers dropping daily deliveries.
Personal:
* My husband and I will lose weight and our health will be restored.
* I will have a daily quiet time and do my Bible Study Fellowship homework on a daily basis instead of waiting until the day before.
* My husband and I will agree on a church to join and the Lord will lead me to serve in some way.
* I will be offered a job.
* I will still not be able to grow anything and more plants will needlessly die.
* I will learn to play drums on the expert level on Rock Band 2 and my kids will start letting me play it with them.
* Next Christmas I will not connect our Christmas Tree to "The Clapper" having learned my lesson this Christmas.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Princess Caroline
I am bothered by the serious consideration of Caroline Kennedy to fill Hillary Clinton's Senate seat. She has no qualifications but some Democrats claim she is qualified to be appointed to Clinton's seat. What qualifications? The biggest qualification seems to be her name. The fact that she is JFK's daughter, according to some Democrat, proves that not only is she qualified but would make a great Senator for New York state. One of the other qualifications mentioned is that she has written books. But her books have been compilations of other's books, poems and stories. Also mentioned is that she has been an education advocate. But what did she actually do for education? Has there been an improvement in New York's education system because of her advocacy? And she's a lawyer, but has she been an extraordinary one?
She said in an interview that she "is not a conventional choice." What kind of qualification is that? Does New York need an unqualified, inexperienced Senator during these difficult financial times in the state?
Where are all the others who want this appointment? They have been either strangely silent or ignored by the press. Maybe they are making their case directly and confidentially to Governor Patterson. In my opinion New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo can make the most legitimate argument for the appointment.
I wonder what Chuck Schumer thinks about all this? He was overshadowed by Hillary Clinton when she was first elected, but he's a pro at getting himself into the limelight. I can't help but think that he doesn't want to have to deal with the daughter of Camelot. He would be overshadowed again and considering the love affair for Kennedy he may have a harder time making it back into the limelight.
I believe Caroline Kennedy is trying to sneak in the backdoor to the Senate seat. If she had announced her intention to run for election in 2010 rather than be appointed the Dems wouldn't be so split over the situation. It would be better for her to be appointed to an important Ambassadorship by Obama and then run for the Senate. She would at least have some legitimate experience.
She said in an interview that she "is not a conventional choice." What kind of qualification is that? Does New York need an unqualified, inexperienced Senator during these difficult financial times in the state?
Where are all the others who want this appointment? They have been either strangely silent or ignored by the press. Maybe they are making their case directly and confidentially to Governor Patterson. In my opinion New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo can make the most legitimate argument for the appointment.
I wonder what Chuck Schumer thinks about all this? He was overshadowed by Hillary Clinton when she was first elected, but he's a pro at getting himself into the limelight. I can't help but think that he doesn't want to have to deal with the daughter of Camelot. He would be overshadowed again and considering the love affair for Kennedy he may have a harder time making it back into the limelight.
I believe Caroline Kennedy is trying to sneak in the backdoor to the Senate seat. If she had announced her intention to run for election in 2010 rather than be appointed the Dems wouldn't be so split over the situation. It would be better for her to be appointed to an important Ambassadorship by Obama and then run for the Senate. She would at least have some legitimate experience.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
A Savior Has Been Born To You
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them,
"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,
"Glory to God in the highest,and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.
So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.
When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. (Luke 2:8-20)
Blessed Christmas to all.
Monday, December 22, 2008
The Dallas Cowboys Are Dead To Me
Not really - A life-long and franchise-long love affair with the Cowboys doesn't die. Superbowl losses to the Steelers during the 1970's didn't kill the love. Roger Staubach's early retirement because of having too many concussions didn't do it. Personnel didn't matter (most of the time) because the Cowboys were - and still are - America's Team. And when Danny White took over for Staubach and couldn't get the Cowboys into "the BIG one," there was always next season after working through the 5 stages of grief. (Note: It was always unfair to compare White's achievements to Staubach's. The only Cowboy so far who has had Staubach-like magic was Troy Aikman.)
I didn't even throw the Cowboys away from my heart when Jerry Jones bought the team and had a very public dinner with Jimmie Johnson while beloved Tom Landry was still officially coach. Most Dallas fans, myself included, almost walked away from America's Team. Without Landry and GM Tex Schramm it really was no longer America's Team. Why it was almost not Dallas' team anymore. Then that 1-15 first season under Jones/Johnson! All hope for next season was almost gone. But still I hung on and all the fans came back the next season. I'm not a fair-weather fan; my expectations are so high after all these years that dissapointments take a little time to work through. And what Johnson did with the Cowboys over the next few years is legend. Players like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, Daryl Johnston (Moooooose), Jay Novacek, Deion Sanders, Michael Irvin are also Cowboy legends.
Then it was over as Dallas struggled with finding the right coach and most of those all-stars were gone. Still, gotta love them 'Boys. Ups and downs, I've stayed with them.
3 years ago Tony Romo came on the scene. Bill Parcells was coach and loved Romo. I read that he took Romo under his wing and believed in the guy's talent and potential for greatness. I also read about Romo's work ethic; he stayed for a couple of hours after practice just throwing passes to just about anyone who would stay with him while he practiced. Hope sprang. Romo had some magic and his enthusiasm was electric. He was like a little boy who had just thrown his first touchdown pass in Pop Warner. He threw to everybody, not just his tight end. But after Thanksgiving that first year that he was the starting quarterback, he seemed to lose a little steam. December wasn't too good and he lost his first playoff game. That was okay because it was his first playoff and he had began starting after the season began. He'd do it next season. I loved the Cowboys even more and believed that next year would see them in the Super Bowl.
That was last year. He did fantastic in the first half of the season and the Cowboys rewarded him by renegotiating his contract mid-season and giving him multi-million dollars to play for the team for the next 5 or 7 years.
Then came Jessica Simpson. The same Jessica Simpson who had bared her ditz for millions during her MTV reality show about her marriage to Nick Lachey. Wow! It proved that the elevator didn't go all the way to the top. I'm not saying she's stupid - she's just ditzy. They had just begun dating and in that first game she attended (wearing a pink Cowboys jersey) things hadn't gone well for Tony in the first half. What absolutely shocked me, however, was that he looked up at her as he was on his way to the locker room. Now I have no idea what was in his head during that game, but it looked as though he was nervous trying to impress her. The Cowboys did no better in the second half and my family jokingly blamed the loss on her.
Romo had again lost steam after the Thanksgiving Day game. The Cowboys had two weeks to practice for the Giants since they had a bye the first week. And while most of the team practiced for the whole two weeks, Romo took several days off and went to Cabo San Lucas with Jessica and her family. What was he thinking? Did he think that just because the Cowboys had given him a new fat contract that he had "arrived" and was entitled to a few days off because he had worked so hard during the season? Surprisingly enough the team lost to the eventual Super Bowl champions. There were lots of Romo mistakes. Was his head not in the game or did the little vacation with Simpson cause him to lose focus? I started having doubts about his ability to keep his intensity through the whole season.
Over the summer the relationship with Simpson was on and off again. He was seen clubbing in exclusive bars in Chicago and LA. There were photographs of him with beautiful women who weren't Jessica Simpson. I wonder when he had time to work on his game and mental toughness other than training camp.
This season began so well that sports anchors talked of him being one of the best quarterbacks. Terry Bradshaw rated him a very close second to Ben Rothelsberger. The others on Fox's NFL show rated him number one in the league. Then Romo was injured and out for 4 weeks, but he returned to his winning way. Then came December. And after every loss I claimed that the Cowboys were dead to me. It was that love/hate relationship again.
Last Saturday's unnecessary loss to Baltimore was crushing. IF the Cowboys make the playoffs this year I don't believe Romo has the focus or mental toughness to win a playoff based on his history of the past two years. I don't believe in the Cowboys right now and I don't have hope for next season. This Sunday they play Philly in Philly which they need to win in order to have a chance at making the playoffs. Frankly I don't think they deserve to make the playoffs - they are a mediocre team right now.
To blame all this on Romo is a mistake. According to the Dallas Morning News "We should never be shocked by these late-season crash-and-burns because they happen every December. For 12 straight seasons, the Cowboys have failed to have a winning record after November. But to see the offense, in particular the passing game, fall apart at season's end is stunning." 12 years ago Jimmie Johnson left, Barry Switzer was fired and the best and brightest retired or were traded away.
A coaching change may be the most important move for the Cowboys during the off-season. No one should give up on Romo - his potential and ability are doubtless. But he really needs help in the mental toughness area. He's got to work on maintaining his intensity and focus through the whole season and into the playoffs. After Saturday's loss to Baltimore the Cowboys were dead to me again. I'm not sure I can watch the Philly game. It hurts every year the Cowboys aren't Super Bowl champions.
I have loved the Cowboys through good times and bad - though not so much during the bad. I may be angry at the team and accuse them of being a bunch of losers like the Redskins, but there's always next season. After all they always come back and we love them for it.
I didn't even throw the Cowboys away from my heart when Jerry Jones bought the team and had a very public dinner with Jimmie Johnson while beloved Tom Landry was still officially coach. Most Dallas fans, myself included, almost walked away from America's Team. Without Landry and GM Tex Schramm it really was no longer America's Team. Why it was almost not Dallas' team anymore. Then that 1-15 first season under Jones/Johnson! All hope for next season was almost gone. But still I hung on and all the fans came back the next season. I'm not a fair-weather fan; my expectations are so high after all these years that dissapointments take a little time to work through. And what Johnson did with the Cowboys over the next few years is legend. Players like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, Daryl Johnston (Moooooose), Jay Novacek, Deion Sanders, Michael Irvin are also Cowboy legends.
Then it was over as Dallas struggled with finding the right coach and most of those all-stars were gone. Still, gotta love them 'Boys. Ups and downs, I've stayed with them.
3 years ago Tony Romo came on the scene. Bill Parcells was coach and loved Romo. I read that he took Romo under his wing and believed in the guy's talent and potential for greatness. I also read about Romo's work ethic; he stayed for a couple of hours after practice just throwing passes to just about anyone who would stay with him while he practiced. Hope sprang. Romo had some magic and his enthusiasm was electric. He was like a little boy who had just thrown his first touchdown pass in Pop Warner. He threw to everybody, not just his tight end. But after Thanksgiving that first year that he was the starting quarterback, he seemed to lose a little steam. December wasn't too good and he lost his first playoff game. That was okay because it was his first playoff and he had began starting after the season began. He'd do it next season. I loved the Cowboys even more and believed that next year would see them in the Super Bowl.
That was last year. He did fantastic in the first half of the season and the Cowboys rewarded him by renegotiating his contract mid-season and giving him multi-million dollars to play for the team for the next 5 or 7 years.
Then came Jessica Simpson. The same Jessica Simpson who had bared her ditz for millions during her MTV reality show about her marriage to Nick Lachey. Wow! It proved that the elevator didn't go all the way to the top. I'm not saying she's stupid - she's just ditzy. They had just begun dating and in that first game she attended (wearing a pink Cowboys jersey) things hadn't gone well for Tony in the first half. What absolutely shocked me, however, was that he looked up at her as he was on his way to the locker room. Now I have no idea what was in his head during that game, but it looked as though he was nervous trying to impress her. The Cowboys did no better in the second half and my family jokingly blamed the loss on her.
Romo had again lost steam after the Thanksgiving Day game. The Cowboys had two weeks to practice for the Giants since they had a bye the first week. And while most of the team practiced for the whole two weeks, Romo took several days off and went to Cabo San Lucas with Jessica and her family. What was he thinking? Did he think that just because the Cowboys had given him a new fat contract that he had "arrived" and was entitled to a few days off because he had worked so hard during the season? Surprisingly enough the team lost to the eventual Super Bowl champions. There were lots of Romo mistakes. Was his head not in the game or did the little vacation with Simpson cause him to lose focus? I started having doubts about his ability to keep his intensity through the whole season.
Over the summer the relationship with Simpson was on and off again. He was seen clubbing in exclusive bars in Chicago and LA. There were photographs of him with beautiful women who weren't Jessica Simpson. I wonder when he had time to work on his game and mental toughness other than training camp.
This season began so well that sports anchors talked of him being one of the best quarterbacks. Terry Bradshaw rated him a very close second to Ben Rothelsberger. The others on Fox's NFL show rated him number one in the league. Then Romo was injured and out for 4 weeks, but he returned to his winning way. Then came December. And after every loss I claimed that the Cowboys were dead to me. It was that love/hate relationship again.
Last Saturday's unnecessary loss to Baltimore was crushing. IF the Cowboys make the playoffs this year I don't believe Romo has the focus or mental toughness to win a playoff based on his history of the past two years. I don't believe in the Cowboys right now and I don't have hope for next season. This Sunday they play Philly in Philly which they need to win in order to have a chance at making the playoffs. Frankly I don't think they deserve to make the playoffs - they are a mediocre team right now.
To blame all this on Romo is a mistake. According to the Dallas Morning News "We should never be shocked by these late-season crash-and-burns because they happen every December. For 12 straight seasons, the Cowboys have failed to have a winning record after November. But to see the offense, in particular the passing game, fall apart at season's end is stunning." 12 years ago Jimmie Johnson left, Barry Switzer was fired and the best and brightest retired or were traded away.
A coaching change may be the most important move for the Cowboys during the off-season. No one should give up on Romo - his potential and ability are doubtless. But he really needs help in the mental toughness area. He's got to work on maintaining his intensity and focus through the whole season and into the playoffs. After Saturday's loss to Baltimore the Cowboys were dead to me again. I'm not sure I can watch the Philly game. It hurts every year the Cowboys aren't Super Bowl champions.
I have loved the Cowboys through good times and bad - though not so much during the bad. I may be angry at the team and accuse them of being a bunch of losers like the Redskins, but there's always next season. After all they always come back and we love them for it.