Nate's Mom

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T06:49:00.004-05:00

Praise God, From whom all Blessing flow;

Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly hosts;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
AMEN!

Hope you all have a wonderful day of giving Thanks to God for all He has done, for without Him we would be nothing!
~Nate's Mom

Flowers and a Truck

2009-08-22T14:05:00.002-05:00

Randy's "new" toy

My garden hasn't done as well as I expected it to this year, but I was tickled pink when this beauty raised her head!

~Nate's Mom

Just Thinking

2009-08-21T22:48:00.002-05:00

It's late, 12:15am to be exact. I sit here at my computer looking at Facebook, checking my Google reader, catching up on the latest news on the Drudge Report and getting sleepy, yet I don't go to bed. I open up my photo files to upload pictures of Randy's new truck to my Facebook page and come across a photo I took of our dear friends, Randy and Heather when we braved the blizzard of 2008 to see Dave Ramsey. Little did I know that night what would happen the summer of 2009. It has been a hard summer for we have lost one of our dearest friends. Tears still flow 6 weeks later when I think of him, when I think of my friend Heather who has lost her best friend. She has been amazingly strong and I don't know if I could be that strong if I were in her shoes. There isn't a day and sometimes it seems like a minute that goes by when I don't think about what happened, when I don't think about my friend that is hurting, when I don't think about the smile on Randy's face or the twinkle in his eye. Life is very strange. I can drive myself crazy trying to figure it out but this one thing I know, God is good. He's never failed me and I have to trust in that and in Him. He knew back in 2008 what would happen. He was preparing the way and helping Randy to get things in order. Sometimes I wonder why it was Randy, why wasn't it my Randy or even me? It could have been me or even you. Are you ready? Have I done all I need to do to be ready for that day? Have you? God help me to live each day ready! I sure want to see Randy again and with God's help I will.

Randy, we miss you and we will meet you in heaven. Look for us at Jesus' feet!

~Nate's Mom

You Go Girl!

2009-07-01T16:57:00.001-05:00

Helen Thomas earned my respect today!

~Nate's Mom

Church Camp 2009

2009-06-30T09:46:00.005-05:00

We had a great week at camp! The services were wonderful and I enjoyed spending time with friends and meeting new people. Here are a few pictures:

My little home away from home. Randy worked so hard to get it done for camp and it was great!!

Our little kitchen

I wish I was a good photographer, this sunrise across the wheat field was so pretty!

The Patriotic side of the campground

~Nate's Mom

Garden Week 5

2009-06-30T09:32:00.005-05:00

After a slow start the garden is finally taking off! I was worried at first, but after spraying for bugs, early blight and fertilizer things are looking up!

~Nate's Mom

Garden Week 1 And A Storm

2009-06-03T08:18:00.004-05:00

These ominous looking clouds headed our way - the sirens were blaring and we headed for the basement

They produced this hail

Sounded like someone was throwing rocks at the house!

Our little garden stood strong and didn't buckle under the onslaught - Beets are growing as you can see above (if you look real hard)

Radishes!

Two tiny little carrot leaves - if you squint and turn your head sideways you can see them in the center of the picture. ;o)

Four little corn stalks

The box received it's face lift and now matches the shed.

Stay tuned for a week by week update on the garden project. I know someone out there must be interested!

~Nate's Mom

Flowers

2009-05-29T00:19:00.004-05:00

Knock Out Roses

Double Petunia

Coreopsis

More Knock Out Roses

Day Lilies ready to bloom

Purple Cone flower will be here soon

Supertunias

Not a flower but an exhausted dog resting after a hard day at the "spa".

~Nate's Mom

Another Project

2009-05-28T10:02:00.006-05:00

I was surfing the web on Tuesday and learned of something that I didn't know existed, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) . You can buy a share of a local garden and you will have fresh produce delivered to your door from June until October! The shares range anywhere from $150-$450. Since I've been trying to watch what I eat lately and it involves lots of fruits and veggies I thought this would be a good plan for me. I then visited my dad and he and my brother informed me that it wasn't too late to plant a garden. I then popped back on the world wide web and decided to build a Square Foot Garden. Nate and I started bright and early at Barnes and Noble to purchase the book, I also bought a copy of Pride and Prejudice to read while I'm watching my garden grow and sipping iced tea! HA! That made me laugh out loud! On a side note, I asked the clerk if they offered teacher discounts to homeschoolers and she very excitedly said they did, I just needed to show proof that we homeschooled. I whipped out my handy dandy HSLDA teacher id, she signed me up and from yesterday onward I will just have to show my teacher discount card and I will receive 20% off my purchase! Back to the garden, we went from the bookstore to Home Depot to purchase a few plants and seeds, then on to the local feed and seed to buy all the ingredients for Mel's mix. The man at the feed and seed knew exactly what I was doing and got me everything I needed! I will let the pictures explain the rest to you because this post is getting way to long for me and I know it's too long for you. If you're like me you don't like the ramblings, just show me the pictures already! So without further ado, my little square foot garden!

~Nate's Mom

Mel's Mix Ingredients

I hope they grow!

Nate learning from Papaw

Mel's Mix in progress

My little garden, I'm so excited to see how it will grow! If I kill it all maybe the CSA will work for me next year! ;o)

We were short one piece of wood for the grid, that will go on today!

My hubby leveled and measured and squared it up with the fence and house! I will paint it the same color as our little barn when I get a chance.

OAMC

2009-05-14T14:02:00.006-05:00

Monday I decided I would try the once a month cooking menu I found at Once A Month Mom. I did all the shopping Tuesday as well as, chopped the necessary veggies and put the chicken in the crock pot before bed. I started bright and early, 6:30am, Wednesday morning. I am really pleased with the results. I have a freezer full of yummy goodies and am excited to try them all. I will say it was a day long extravagana that would have been made easier if I had a dishwashing fairy to help me! I did really well keeping up with the dishes until about noon when I discovered that I had forgotten to buy the taco seasoning mix on my list and that the pita pockets were not listed on the mastery grocery list! AAAHHH!!! I ran to the store and headed home to finish up. This is when I just wanted to get done and didn't take the time to wash the dishes. Around 3pm I had to stop and take a break before I had a meltdown because my neck was killing me. After a 20 min. cat nap I cleaned up the dishes and was done for the day. Randy had to help me with the BBQ Baby Back ribs when he got home, I just couldn't bring myself to cut off the membrane and rinse off all that blood! GAG! I have not taken the time to do the cost breakdown but will soon and have it posted if you are interested. Here are some of my final conclusions -

Break the cooking up into 2 days next time, my neck will thank me!

Double check the grocery list before I leave the store!

Double check the master grocery list and read the comments on website to check for any mistakes in recipes, lists, etc.

Read through all recipes and instructions before I go to the store, a couple of the recipes were a little confusing, and I would have purchased leaner ground beef for the recipes that were not brown and drain recipes.

I love having all this stuff in my freezer (all recipes, instructions, labels and lists can be found at Once a Month Mom) -

14 Fresh Strawberry Muffins - Nate said they are delicious!

8 servings of Low Calorie Strawberry Shake - Once again a thumbs up from Nate!

16 Homemade Granola Bars - I love these!

8 Hot Dog Croissants - Randy took 2 to work this morning and said he could have ate 3!

8 BBQ Chicken Pita Pizzas

8 Chicken Taco Wraps - YUMMY!

Asian Flank Steak

8 Elliot's Gourmet Burgers - These look yummy but I am a little nervous that the fam won't like them, would probably just make up regular patties next time, we'll see.

PW's Flank Steak

8 servings (2 dinners plus some lunches) Slow Cooker Saucy Meatballs

8 servings (2 dinners plus some lunches) Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti

3 full racks of BBQ Baby Back Ribs (3 dinners plus leftovers for lunch)

8 Strong Safety Stuffed Burgers (see notes on Elliot's Gourmet Burgers above)

8 Servings Spaghetti Pie (2 dinners plus leftovers)

5 quart bags of Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder

~Nate's Mom

Slow Cooker Saucy Meatballs

Chipotle Chicken Corn Chowder

Hot Dog Croissants

Spaghetti Pie

Fresh Strawberry Muffins

Low Cal Strawberry Shake

Homemade Granola Bars

Chicken Taco Wraps

The labels you can print on Once A Month Mom are really cool and make everything look so organized!

The 3pm mess that caused the near meltdown!

The yummy stash - minus the ribs, Randy wasn't home yet! ;o)

Homeschool Convention

2009-05-04T10:41:00.003-05:00

View of the Duke Energy Center from our room

Our Room at the Hyatt Regency

Several people have asked if I enjoyed the Midwest Homeschool Convention and I would like to tell you, YES!!! It was like revival or IHC for homeschoolers. The Duke Energy Center is huge and it was filled with thousands of people from all over the country and the world doing what we do! I wish I had felt better, I'm sure those in the sessions with me wish I felt better as well. The constant nose blowing and coughing had to be a distraction. I also wish I felt better because I think the constant nose blowing was affecting my brain. I saw so many people from the homeschool group we used to attend and I couldn't for the life of me remember their names!

My favorite sessions were those with Mary Hood aka "The Relaxed Homeschooler" and Susan Wise Bauer, author of The Well-Trained Mind.

Things I will do differently next year:
- Don't get sick
- Buy one of those crate on wheels thingys to haul all my stuff around
- Take snacks & water because the food is a little expensive
- Be more observant of which parking garage you parked the car, you'll save time this way! ;o)
- Attend all 3 days, I missed Thursday evening this year

My suggestions for you if you plan on attending next year:
- Check the Midwest Homeschool Convention website and pick your sessions before you go - there are many and this saves time
- Have a plan before you walk into the vendor hall. It is HUGE and if you go in there with a credit card and no plan, your husband may not let you go back the next year.
- Allow yourself a splurge purchase. I bought Susan Wise Bauer's "The Well-Trained Mind" third edition and am really enjoying it!

I only took a few pictures, once again, I was sick and my brain wasn't functioning! I also want to say a great big THANKS to my mom for attending the convention with me. She was a real trooper attending most of the session with me and a few on her own. I think she may start homeschooling my dad!

For a picture of the huge vendor hall visit Susan Wise Bauer's Blog

I said all that to say this, the Midwest Homeschool Convention was great and I can't wait to attend next year!

~Nate's Mom

The Pioneer Woman's Perfect Pancakes

2009-05-04T09:28:00.007-05:00

I made these for Nate this morning. I asked him if they were the best pancakes he's ever eaten and he said, "No" with a twinkle in his eye. I said, "Let me rephrase that, besides Pancake Pantry, are they the best pancakes you've ever eaten?" He said, "OH YEAH!" You'll have to take Nate's word for it. I didn't eat any because of reasons number 2 and 5 Pioneer Woman lists on her post, but they sure look yummy.

This is what I had for breakfast this morning:

Green Lemonade

1 head Romaine Lettuce
1/2 bag spinach leaves
1 organic lemon with peel
1 large Fuji Apple
1 - 2 " piece fresh ginger root

Place all in juicer and enjoy!

I can hear the groans, "she's really lost it now", let me just ease your mind, I lost "it", whatever "it" is a long time ago!!!!! ;o)

~Nate's Mom

YUCK!

2009-04-30T18:43:00.002-05:00

I would have to be really really hungry before I would eat this! If you know me well you will understand this - GAG, GAAAG, Cough, Cough, Cough!!!!!

~Nate's Mom

I Think I Could Do This!

2009-04-28T09:46:00.002-05:00

I have a brain block when it comes to sewing but I think even I could make this cute bag. Check it out here.

~Nate's Mom

I'm Off...

2009-04-16T16:36:00.002-05:00

to the Midwest Homeschool Convention! This is my fist big convention and I'm so excited. The last convention I was scheduled to attend was in Indianapolis and I never made it, spent the night in the hospital with a kidney stone, OUCH!!! Hope to see some of you fellow homeschoolers there! My sweet mother has agreed to go with me since my concerned husband did not want me walking to my car at night in the city or staying in a hotel by myself. Talk to you all in a few days!

~Nate's Mom

He Is Risen!

2009-04-11T20:51:00.001-05:00

He is Risen Indeed!

Good Friday

2009-04-10T08:43:00.003-05:00

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

Tie-Dyed Easter Eggs

2009-04-09T12:34:00.003-05:00

1. Find some old 100% silk ties in Hubby's closet.

2. Wrap eggs in tie and white cloth, cover with water and some vinegar and boil.

3. VOILA! Beautiful Easter eggs without all the messy, colored water!

I had so much fun making these Easter Eggs yesterday! They were extremely easy and turned out better than I expected! Find the complete instructions here.

~Nate's Mom

Let Me Introduce You

2009-03-26T15:41:00.002-05:00

Ben and Jerry, meet the Bloggers, Bloggers meet Ben and Jerry! Yes I named the new washer and dryer. After 4 months of waiting, disappointment and anticipation they have finally arrived. I figured they deserved a name and just like Chunky Monkey and Cherry Garcia, these 2 bring me great joy! Yes, Nate is watching the laundry being laundered. At one point after the installation the whole family was on the floor watching the laundry being laundered! It doesn't take much to entertain us! I am just thrilled with this pair and hope we have many wonderful years together!

I am also thrilled with the homemade laundry soap experiment. It works amazingly well and Heather has written a great review on it here! I have now laundered whites, darks, towels, hubby's stinky work clothes etc. The clothes are clean and the soap is CHEAP, CHEAP, CHEAP! $2 for a 10 gallon batch. If you are using a top loader it is $.01 per load and a front loader $.003 per load!!!! Here are just a few things I noticed. If you equate scent with clean you will not like this soap. There is a very faint, almost no soap smell when the clothes come out of the washer. Fabric softener may help with this. If you equate suds with clean you won't like this soap. It is very low sudsing which is just perfect for High Efficiency machines. All the ingredients can be found at Kroger and will cost approximately $10 to get you started. Give it a try, I think you will be pleasantly surprised! The liquid soap recipe I used can be found here. There are many other versions and tips on the Internet and I've listed a couple of them below.

~Nate's Mom

Tip Nut
Recipezaar

Stepping Up to the Plate!

2009-03-25T12:01:00.001-05:00

~Nate's Mom

They're In!

2009-03-25T11:44:00.003-05:00

The long lost washer and dryer of Black Friday 2008 has finally arrived! I don't think I'll believe it until I see them. They have arrived just in time for the homemade laundry soap experiment of yesterday! Check out the recipe here.

~Nate's Mom

Simple Truth

2009-03-11T10:13:00.003-05:00

I first saw this video clip at Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover Live Event. I found it again today and thought I would share it with you. Funny but true!

~Nate's Mom

Happy Birthday Nate

2009-03-10T08:32:00.002-05:00

12 years old today! Where does the time go? Seems like yesterday we brought you home and now you're almost as tall as me! Daddy and I love you so much! Hope you have a wonderful day!

Test

2009-03-09T20:55:00.001-05:00

Test

2009-03-09T20:55:00.000-05:00

For some reason my posts are disappearing!

Got Bananas?

2009-03-09T13:40:00.002-05:00

Made this yummy Banana Bread last week for the men working on our church building. They loved it and I cooked up another batch today. It makes 4 loaves and I've cut the recipe in half with great success. Try it today!

Banana Sour Cream Bread

~Nate's Mom

Encouragement

2009-03-09T12:39:00.002-05:00

Do you need an uplifting message today? If so, head on over to read what Kris had to say at Weird, Unsocialized Homeschoolers. Don't you just love the name of her blog? ;o) Homeschoolers and non homeschoolers alike can benefit from this great post! It encouraged me today!

~Nate's Mom

Test

2009-03-08T15:18:00.001-05:00

Having trouble with the blog, just doing a test post!

~Nate's Mom

Potato Soup

2009-03-07T10:23:00.003-05:00

I know the cold weather is quickly leaving us but if you took advantage of Kroger's 10# bag of potatoes sale this week, you might enjoy this yummy recipe that we tried. I loved it along with my mother-in-law and my niece Katie. Nate and Randy were very kind and ate a bowl but you can't take their word for it, they don't like potato soup. ENJOY!

Baked Potato Soup I

~Nate's Mom

Gatlinburg

2009-02-24T10:25:00.005-05:00

Randy took me to Gatlinburg for a little getaway. We had a wonderfully relaxing time and didn't want the weekend to end, so Randy stayed home from work yesterday! Yipee! Here are a few pictures I took while we were away. They are in the opposite order so if you care about stuff like that begin at the end. ;o)

~Nate's Mom

We found this little snowman on one of the scenic overlooks. Scout wanted his picture taken. ;o)

Gatlinburg in the snow

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature trail was closed, but the drive there was pretty!

Scout's ride home.

The camera did not make it out again until Sunday morning when we were getting ready to leave. We woke up to over an inch of snow, it was very pretty!

We found this little guy in our suitcase upon our arrival.

Hello and Goodbye

2009-02-19T15:53:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile, I just wanted to pop in and say hello and goodbye! I'm off for a romantic weekend getaway with my sweet hubby!

Until I return, here's a video that gave me a little hope today that someone is willing to stand up and be heard in the midst of the craziness that is going on in our country today! You go CNBC man!

~Nate's Mom

Snow Scenes

2009-01-28T16:03:00.002-05:00

ICE

The Front Porch

View from our backdoor

Zoe

My in laws house from our back door

My little Japanese Maple and some Dwarf Fountain Grass

Nate the hard worker

~Nate's Mom

Real American Hero

2009-01-22T18:14:00.002-05:00

We are Dave Ramsey fans around here and I just listened to a great monologue Dave did on his show today. I thought I would post it here to give those of you who are struggling to make it, hope, and to tell you that have sacrificed, way to go! I live with one of these heroes and I know that a lot of you do to. Hearing this clip made me want to squeeze my man a little harder tonight and tell him thanks for all the sacrifices he makes for me!
Listen here.

~Nate's Mom

God Speed Mr. President

2009-01-15T20:16:00.004-05:00

Tonight, with a tear in my eye and a sadness in my heart, I watched President Bush give his farewell speech. I felt like I was saying good bye to a friend. I have not agreed with every decision he has made but despite what others may think I believe he is a great man who has done what he thought best for our country. I twice had the privilege to shake his hand and to look him in the eye and tell him that I was praying for him. What I sensed on those 2 days was a man who loved God, his country and the people he served. I wonder what wonderful things he could have accomplished if he had not been beaten down by the main stream media and those on the liberal left who fought him on every turn. I don't know what history will say about President George W. Bush, but he will forever hold a place in my heart as a man who served our country to the best of his ability. Thank you President Bush for all you have done to keep us safe since 9/11/01 and for serving the United States of America. May God bless you!

~Nate's Mom

Sketch Tuesday

2009-01-13T11:47:00.004-05:00

Barb at Harmony Art Mom hosts Sketch Tuesday every week on her blog. Nate has never participated but I knew he would love this week's topic - Need For Speed! He was drawing 4 wheelers in church on Sunday night, sorry Bro. Hooker, and I thought he might like to try one today. I think he did a fine job! What do you think?

~Nate's Mom

It Won't Rain Always

2009-01-11T21:42:00.002-05:00

Right now all the cooking blog posts and "what I did this weekend" posts that I so often write on here seem to pale in comparison to the hurt a father and husband must be feeling after losing his entire family in one tragic accident. I did not know the Biggers but will be praying for this man and his extended family as I would want someone to pray for me in the weeks to come. I have heard this song sung by Janet Paschal so many times and felt God's hand of comfort. If you are struggling through a storm in your life maybe the words of this song will help you remember that God is there no matter what. Whatever the hurt or disappointment He is there to see us through and the sun WILL shine, not in our time, but in His.

~Nate's Mom

Happy Birthday Abby

2009-01-08T13:16:00.001-05:00

We hope you have a wonderful day!

With love,

Uncle Randy, Aunt Michele and Nate

A Fun Treat

2009-01-04T19:51:00.004-05:00

The ladies at my parents' church take turns making "Welcome Gifts" for the people that visit their services each Sunday morning. It was my mom's turn this week and we had so much fun making these treats. I found the idea in a Cuisine at Home magazine and used the Mrs. Sigg's Snickerdoodle recipe found at Allrecipes.com. So easy and very inexpensive.

~Nate's Mom

Look What Came in the Mail Today!

2008-12-31T16:28:00.004-05:00

Lovely Box

OOOHH the excitement!

I love the inside!

My mom and dad got me a Vera Bradley purse for Christmas. The one she ordered was a lot bigger than expected so we exchanged it for a smaller size. I ordered it Monday and it arrived today! I love getting packages in the mail. Nate wanted to open it and I said, "NO! Do I open your Christmas presents?!" What a mean mom I am! I just love it (the purse that is, not being a mean mom) and had to share some pictures with you my faithful readers! THANKS Mom and Dad!
~Nate's Mom

Meet My New "Friend"

2008-12-30T14:26:00.003-05:00

Randy, Nate and I all got some money for Christmas. Randy's and mine is going in the Emergency Fund but we each made a little splurge purchase and I am so excited! Randy and Nate bought Carhart Bib Overalls with theirs and I bought this:

The Wusthof 7" Classic Santoku knife recommended by The Pioneer Woman! I just tested it on an orange and it cut it like butter! Paper thin slices with ease. I then got out my best old knife to put it to the test and there is no comparison! I can see lots of yummy stuff being made with this thing! I also foresee a sliced finger or two!

~Nate's Mom

Brownie Biscotti

2008-12-23T13:56:00.003-05:00

If you like to dip cookies in your coffee, tea or hot chocolate, these cookies are for you.

Brownie Biscotti

~Nate's Mom

More Goodies

2008-12-19T15:46:00.003-05:00

Chocolate Pecan Caramels

Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

~Nate's Mom

Christmas Cookies

2008-12-18T09:51:00.003-05:00

This past weekend my parents went to New York for a wedding and Nate and I house sit for them. While there we took advantage of Grammy's cookie making goodies and had loads of fun decorating the cookies. We used the Thick Cut Outs recipe from All Recipes and it was a very easy dough to work with, it just makes a ton!

All the cookie cutters

Ready for the oven

Sanding sugar, Royal Icing in a squeeze bottle, sprinkles, confetti, mini snowflakes and candy canes made the job easier!

The artist and his creations

Not only cute but yummy too!

~Nate's Mom

Our Christmas Tree

2008-12-17T11:18:00.008-05:00

If you know me you know I'm the furthest thing from a decorator. You have probably noticed the bare walls screaming out at you in the pictures I post here. This is one of my New Years resolutions, DECORATE! I love pretty things but somewhere down the line the interior design gene skipped right past me! So please keep that in mind when I show you our Christmas tree. I love our tree, it may not make the cut for Better Homes and Gardens but it's ours and it has memories that I am going to share with you today. I can tell you where every ornament came from and I love unpacking them and remembering days gone by as Nate and I hang them on the tree. I hope you enjoy my little trip down memory lane.

Our Motorcycle Trip to South Dakota

A souvenir from my in-laws' trip to San Diego

One of many snowflakes handmade by my great grandma

A snowflake Nate made in Homeschool Art Class

One of the many cinnamon ornaments Nate and I made one year

2008 family vacation souvenir from P. Graham Dunn

House warming present from a neighbor

Sand Dollar purchased in Cocoa Beach Florida on one of our first trips to the beach

A tribute to Zoe from my mother-in-law

A sweet gift from one of my Sunday School Students, Lauryn

17 Christmases ago

Nate made this in Children's Church one year

From our Thanksgiving Trip to the Outer Banks and Kitty hawk

A wedding present

Nate 1st Christmas from my mom

This little guy has been with me for probably 30 years. My grandmother's friend made them for our tree when we were little. I love him!

A lady I cleaned for gave me this star in 2001, her son was in the military at the time, may we never forget!

The front of the star

Some of my favorite ornaments. My mom's friend had an open house with all her hand made floral arrangements and hand painted ornaments. I bought these 3 there. The year is on their scarves, I believe it says 1998! Notice the little brown motorcycle on the bottom right of the picture. Nate must have put that on there. He found it in a box of Randy's childhood memories when my in laws were moving last year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

~Nate's Mom

The Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon Rolls

2008-12-16T13:36:00.004-05:00

The preparation begins

Raising

Nate making the frosting

Yes there's one missing in that pan, you gotta taste 'em before you give them to friends and neighbors!

YUM!

I think we've started a new Christmas tradition around here today! The Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon rolls are easy and delicious! I'm anxious to give them to friends and neighbors and see what they think. The recipe can be found here. The only change I made was the frosting calls for maple flavoring and our little grocery store didn't have any so I used vanilla extract. Still yummy!

~Nate's Mom

Christmas Goodies

2008-12-09T19:01:00.003-05:00

Oreo Snowball Truffles

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles

Simply Sensational Truffles

I spent the day with my good friends Heather and Vicki making these yummy goodies. Of course I forgot my camera and don't have pictures of all the action but here is the tray I fixed for Randy to take to work tomorrow. I had a great time! Thanks Heather and Vicki for letting me join in your fun!
~Nate's Mom

AMAZING

2008-12-09T09:03:00.002-05:00

Get ready to have goosebumps running up and down your arms when you hear these girls sing the National Anthem. Thanks, Larry for sending this my way! In the midst of economic turmoil and uncertainty, don't forget what an amazing country we live in and what we were founded upon. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Some Good News

2008-12-02T22:08:00.002-05:00

Just in case you've quit following all the political news since the election I thought I would give you some good news. Saxby Chambliss won his GA senate race today thus blocking the Democrats from having a super majority! YIPEE!

~Nate's Mom

Thanksgiving 2008, Prayer Request & Black Friday

2008-11-28T21:08:00.009-05:00

Thanksgiving has come and gone for another year. I hope you all had a special day with your families and friends. We sure did and we ate entirely too much food. Someone said a typical Thanksgiving meal has 3,000 -5,000 calories, Weight Watchers here we come! My favorite comment of the day was from my nephew Alex. Someone commented that the food was wonderful and Alex said, "This is more than wonderful, it's GLORIOUS!" That made all the work worth while.

Our little group of 5 turned into a great group of 14! Randy's Mom & Dad, his sister Kim and her family, Randy's Uncle Tim & Aunt Debra and my parents joined us for the festivities. My mom and I had so much fun fixing dinner for everyone. She is the best and I couldn't have done it without her!

Randy's Grandma Hatfield fell earlier in the week and had to have hip surgery this morning. She came through the surgery well but Pray that God will give her the strength she needs to recuperate.

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to reflect on God's blessings. God has been so close to me this past year and I want to thank Him for His faithfulness. Life isn't always easy, in fact most of the time it's not easy, but I'm so glad we have God to help us through the tough times. Isn't God good!

My nephew Alex and my dad Carl

My wonderful mom, Gayle

The table is set

The gang's all here: Gayle, Kim, Katie, Nate, Deron, Jim, Randy,

Carl, Tim, Alex, Courtney, Debra, Betty

The cast of characters:

Country Green Beans

The Pioneer Woman's Sweet Potatoe Casserole

Slow Cooker Ham

Corn

Mashed Potatoes

My mom's Famous Stuffing

Turkey

Cranberry Pineapple Minis

And we finished the day with my grandma's famous pumpkin pie

and New York Cheesecake

Nate, Gayle, Carl, Randy & Michele

Thanksgiving isn't complete without the Black Friday shopping. Randy and I didn't get up at 4am this year but we did take advantage of a great Door Buster Sale at Sears. Meet our new washer and dryer, YIPEE:

~Nate's Mom

2008-11-26T18:24:00.000-05:00

Why my mom will be making the turkey tomorrow!

~Nate's Mom

Moms' Night Out

2008-11-24T09:22:00.003-05:00

Heather, Sarah and I had a great evening Friday night! We had a scrumptious dinner at the Cheesecake Factory and then it was off for a relaxing hour of pampering! Randy and Nate gave me a gift certificate for a pedicure last Christmas and I was finally able to use it. Tamra, we missed you but hopefully Moms' Night Out becomes a regular thing and you can join us next time! Thanks to our great husbands for giving us the night off! You all are the best! Here are a few of my pictures and Heather has more here.

~Nate's Mom

Cheesecake, YUM!

Heather & Sarah

Factory Burrito Grande!

The Lighting of the Christmas Tree which we didn't know about, resulting in a 30min parking fiasco!!!! Beautiful in spite of it all!

Wordless Wednesday

2008-11-19T10:10:00.001-05:00

Freedom to Homeschool

2008-11-12T15:40:00.002-05:00

I have been blessed to be able to homeschool Nate for the past 6 years. Since the election I have been concerned that our right to continue this will be hindered or even taken away. I received the following email from Michael Smith, President of the Home School Legal Defense Association. If you are a homeschooler and are not a member of this fantastic organization shame on you, they fight every day for your right to do so and you should join NOW! If you've never heard of HSLDA and you are a homeschooler, forgive me but got to their website now and get informed and then join! ;o) If you are not a homeschooler but know someone who does and you support their right to do so I suggest you make a donation to the Homeschool Foundation. These organizations are going to need funds to fight the liberals in this country who would like nothing more than to take this constitutional right away from us. Please read the letter below, visit HSLDA's website to find out what it's all about and consider joining! :

What Can We Expect under an Obama Administration?

Dear HSLDA Members and Friends of Homeschooling:

Since the election of Barack Obama as U.S. president, HSLDA has received more than a few calls from both members and nonmembers. Some are quite concerned about the future of homeschooling under an Obama presidency.

First of all, let us always remember that “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). He also instructs us to be wise, plan, and be prepared in everything we do.

Despite HSLDA’s efforts prior to the election to get an official statement from the Obama campaign regarding their position on homeschooling, we received no response.
So where does that leave us?

We do know that the Democratic Party has an official position of supporting public education. The National Education Association (NEA), which is the national teachers union, is a major supporter of the Democratic Party. We know that the NEA’s position is that every child should be either taught by a certified teacher or supervised by one. Additionally, their position is that the curriculum used by all homeschoolers should be approved by the state, and children should only be able to continue to be homeschooled based upon systematic evaluation by the state.
It is important to remember that under the United States Constitution, the federal government has no authority over private and home education. This is not to say that they will not attempt to exercise authority in these areas. And whenever private educators accept grants and benefits, there are conditions to receiving those benefits, including being subject to regulation.

Just because the federal government has no constitutional authority over home education, however, doesn’t mean that federal bureaucrats or legislators might not attempt to impose some form of regulation over private and home education. We saw this back in 1994, when the reauthorization of the Secondary and Elementary Act (H.R. 6) contained an amendment which would have conditioned funding to the states for public education to require that all teachers be certified in every subject area they teach. The homeschool community rose up; over a million phone calls were made to the U.S. Congress, and the amendment was defeated. During that process, Representative Dick Armey from Texas introduced an amendment which stated that the federal government and Congress have no authority over private and home education. This protective language was passed by the House of Representatives.

With your help and the help of homeschoolers all across America, we will vigorously resist any effort on the part of the federal government to regulate home education. Obviously, this will take resources—which come from our membership—and we would encourage our current members to continue standing with us, and encourage others to join us.

An immediate concern to watch is the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Although we do not know what Barack Obama’s specific position on the treaty is, we know that future Vice President Joe Biden has publicly indicated that this UN Convention should be ratified by the United States.

It does appear that we will soon have the challenge of keeping the UN Convention from being ratified by the U.S. Senate, ratification requiring a two-thirds majority to pass.

Should the UN Convention be ratified, it would impose the United Nation’s view of children’s rights on America. Under the U.S. Constitution, treaties become the Supreme Law of the land, taking precedent over state laws and state supreme court decisions.

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child is not in the best interest of parents or children, as it would undermine the parental authority that our laws currently recognize. For further information on the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child visit ParentalRights.org.

To summarize, homeschoolers should not live in fear, but we do need to be wise, and we will need to be vigilant to protect parental rights and homeschooling freedoms in the future. We stand prepared, with your help, to do that as we’ve done for 25 years.

Michael Smith
HSLDA President

Busy, Busy, Busy

2008-11-10T09:00:00.004-05:00

What a busy weekend we've had! Friday night started off with a bang at the Holden's for a fish fry! Pictures can be found at Melodie's Blog. Cameron and Logan came home with Nate and we enjoyed having them with us if even for a short time! Saturday was spent cleaning the church for me and working on our new building for Randy and Nate. Pictures of the progress can be found here. Sunday was Friend Day at our church. We wanted to double last years average attendance with 236 and we passed our goal with 252! It was a beautiful service! Randy invited his friend from work and we enjoyed having them for dinner. Here is a little video clip of Cameron and Nate jamming on their guitars! If you turn the sound up and listen very closely you can hear Logan singing along, he was trying to make up words to go with the song. We may have the makings of a great band on our hands Melodie! ;o)
~Nate's Mom

You Go Barney!

2008-11-08T20:19:00.001-05:00

OUTRAGEOUS!

2008-11-07T14:02:00.002-05:00

Where is the outrage?! Why isn't this all over the news and why hasn't this woman been fired?! What she did to this defenseless little girl is unconscionable! Is this the "Change" we need?

~Nate's Mom

Encouragement

2008-11-05T16:06:00.002-05:00

Over the next few days I will try to find little bits of encouragement to help you along your way. The first one comes from Dick Morris:

While the Democrats and Barack Obama won big yesterday, even coming close to a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate, Obama will find their options substantially constrained by reality.

Their handicap is the financial condition of the nation they'll inherit. Think of a trustee or conservator of a bankrupt company.

Those who fear a radical Obama miss the point of the lack of maneuverability of the next president. Behind the mortgage crisis looms the credit-card crisis, the student-loan crisis and the car-loan crisis. Sweating this mess out of the system will take two years of zero growth or contraction.

Power has been bad for the GOP, sapping the party's soul and eroding its purity. But opposition, especially when a socialist like Obama wrestles with the practical problems of capitalism, will be a heady experience for the Republicans. The conservative movement can be reborn in opposition in a way they never could have been as the governing party.

For political historians, it's worth noting that Obama hasn't scored the knockout that many predicted. As I write, it seems clear that John McCain will lose by a few points in the popular vote, not by the double digits so confidently predicted in the media polls. The fact is that most of the undecided voters went to the Republicans.

In the face of a mandate limited by reality and undermined by his inability to sweep the nation as had been predicted, Obama will face a difficult situation. As the economy falters, he'll find himself unable to raise taxes as he wants and stymied in his plans for government takeover.

A very tough future, for a man who won such a heady victory.

On A Positive Note

2008-11-05T09:46:00.000-05:00

1-20-13
Obama's Last Day

The Solid Rock

2008-11-04T23:35:00.000-05:00

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus’ name.

When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.

His oath, His covenant, His blood
Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my hope and stay.

When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in Him be found;
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne.

On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

2008-11-04T05:55:00.002-05:00

My Friend,

From the time I entered the Naval Academy at age seventeen I have been privileged and honored to serve my country.

Throughout my years of service, I’ve been faced with challenges where I could have taken the easy way out and given up. But I’m an American and I never give up. Instead, I choose to show courage and stand up and fight for the country I love. Today, I am asking you to stand with me and to fight for our country’s future.

Our country faces enormous challenges and our next president must be ready to lead on day one. My lifetime of experience has prepared me to lead our great nation. I’m prepared to bring solutions to our economic challenges, bring our troops home in victory and improve our nation’s healthcare system.

Time and time again, my country has saved my life and I owe her more than she has ever owed me. I have chosen to show my gratitude through a life of service to our country and tomorrow, you will have a choice before you.

I humbly ask you to make the choice that will allow me to serve my country a little while longer by casting your vote to elect me as your next President of the United States.

Finally, I ask that you never forget that much has been sacrificed to protect our right to vote. We must never forget those Americans who, with their courage, with their sacrifice, and with their lives, have protected our freedom. It is my great hope that you will exercise your right to vote as an American tomorrow.

I thank you for your kind support, your dedication to our cause, and most importantly I thank you for your vote.

With sincere appreciation,

John McCain

Fasten Your Seatbelts...

2008-11-03T16:43:00.001-05:00

.....tomorrow is going to be a wild ride!

Breaking from Newsmax.com

Fox Poll: McCain Tied in Key States

A just-released Fox News poll of 1,000 voters in each of six key states shows Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain making major last minutes strides to pull even with his Democratic rival, Sen. Barack Obama.

While Obama leads in two of the battlegrounds states, the candidates are now tied, or within 1 point of each other, in four others, according to the Rasmussen Reports survey.

In Ohio, one of the states that McCain’s supporters believe they have to win, McCain has pulled dead even. Obama and McCain are now tied in Ohio, at 49 percent apiece.

Here are the results from the Fox News poll:

Colorado

Obama 51

McCain 47

Florida

McCain 50

Obama 49

Missouri

Obama 49

McCain 49

N. Carolina

McCain 50

Obama 49

Ohio

Obama 49

McCain 49

Virginia

Obama 51

McCain 47

The poll has a plus or minus margin of error of 3 percent.

Sponsored Note: The GOPtrust.com can still buy TV ads in key swing states — help them now and donate...Go Here Now

AOL Straw Poll

2008-11-03T13:02:00.001-05:00

I've searched and searched online looking for the history of this poll but can't seem to find anything it is quite encouraging!

AOL Straw Poll

~Nate's Mom

Call To Fast & Pray

2008-11-03T10:19:00.002-05:00

The following letter is from my dear friend's daughter, she is 14 or 15 and encouraged me so much! I asked her mom if I could share the letter with my friends and she agreed. Please take the time to read it and join me in fasting and prayer today and/or tomorrow. Remember now matter what happens, God is in control and we can trust him. He has never failed us and the person in the White House doesn't change that one bit!

Many of you are probably familiar with the story of the pastor who spoke with Sarah Palin at a McCain/ Palin rally in Lebanon, OH.

In case you haven’t read this yet, I’ve attached a copy of the story. (The story can be found here)

Whether or not this account is totally accurate, I believe the idea of Gov. Palin being a present-day Esther is truly profound.

One whole 10-chapter book of the Bible is dedicated to the story of Esther.

Esther was a courageous woman who stood up for what she believed. Throughout the story, it is apparent that God’s hand was on her. In the end, God used Esther along with her cousin, Mordecai to save his chosen people.

I had the privilege of seeing Gov. Palin about a month ago at a rally in Wilmington, OH. She is also a courageous woman of God with strong beliefs. I have read countless things making fun of Sarah Palin for her firm stance on abortion, same-sex marriage, etc. It always reminds me how badly America needs leaders who will listen and follow God’s direction.

Sarah Palin is not a messiah; she is simply a woman who God has gifted with the ability to lead, and who (I believe) will follow God’s direction in helping John McCain lead this country.

Though I am not old enough to vote, my parents have always taught me the importance of voting. It is our responsibility as Americans to voice our opinion through voting. But more important still, is our responsibility as Christians to pray for those in leadership in this country.

If you recall, in the story of Esther, Esther didn’t just rush in and risk her life, before taking time to pray.

Esther 4:15-17 says,

Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my maids will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”

So Mordecai went away and carried out all of Esther’s instructions.

The story goes on to tell us that Esther summoned her courage, went to the king and revealed Haman’s plot against her and her people. Haman was killed, and the Jews were saved.

It really is an amazing (True) story.

I will be fasting on Election Day- Tuesday, November 4^th. I am asking all of you to join me in this effort.

I won’t go into all the Scripture verses about fasting, but I would encourage you to look some up for yourself (There are plenty of them).

One of the main benefits of fasting is that it helps us focus on prayer. Please pray fervently for John McCain and Sarah Palin, not just on Nov. 4^th, but right now, and every time God lays it on your heart from now until then.

If you feel led to fast longer, please do so!

I would also encourage you to pray for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. I have a hard time believing Sen. Obama is a Christian, considering many of the things he stands for, so I pray for his salvation daily.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

God bless you, and GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Sincerely,

Rebekah S.

Quote for the Day

2008-11-03T10:12:00.003-05:00

I found this quote from Winston Churchill over at Red State this morning:

Winston Churchill, October 29, 1941:

You cannot tell from appearances how things will go. Sometimes imagination makes things out far worse than they are; yet without imagination not much can be done. Those people who are imaginative see many more dangers than perhaps exist; certainly many more than will happen; but then they must also pray to be given that extra courage to carry this far-reaching imagination. But for everyone, surely, what we have gone through in this period ...this is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never-in nothing, great or small, large or petty - never give in except to convictions of honour and good sense. Never yield to force; never yield to the apparently overwhelming might of the enemy.

~Nate's Mom

Why I Love Homeschooling

2008-11-03T09:59:00.002-05:00

TOO CUTE!!!!

2008-11-01T20:31:00.000-05:00

~Nate's Mom

OH HAPPY DAY!

2008-11-01T01:12:00.003-05:00

Photo courtesy of the Drudge Report

ZOGBY: MCCAIN MOVES INTO LEAD 48-47 IN ONE DAY POLLING

~Nate's Mom

2008-11-01T01:09:00.002-05:00

I don't really agree with Arnold on a lot of things, but he gave an incredible introduction speech for John McCain in Columbus, OH today. He knows what it's like to live in a socialist "Spread the Wealth" country and that's why he moved to the USA!

~Nate's Mom

2008-10-31T10:48:00.002-05:00

When Obama/Biden are elected we will be paying for this woman's gas and mortgage!

$1.91!!!!!

2008-10-31T10:11:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I was able to fill my car with gas for a mere $25.70!!!! Thanks to my Kroger Plus card the $2.01 gas was only $1.91! What is the price of gas where you live?

~Nate's Mom

I Apologize.....

2008-10-29T15:56:00.001-05:00

He didn't take his job seriously now did he?

~Nate's Mom

Come What May

2008-10-28T23:38:00.003-05:00

If you are a frequent reader of Crystal Paine's blog Money Saving Mom you may have already watched this movie. If not please visit Advent Film Group's website and sign up to watch it ASAP, it's only available free online for 3 days. It was made by over 40 homeschooled students and it's their first film. In this world of Hollywood movies where life isn't valued and love is just some cheap activity you participate in on a Friday night this movie inspired me and gave me hope for the future of our country. Pass it on to your friends and let me know what you think.

~Nate's Mom

I Love this Article!

2008-10-28T11:53:00.001-05:00

The Seven Reasons McCain-Palin Are a Lock to Win

Dead Heat

2008-10-28T08:28:00.002-05:00

The IBD/Tipp daily tracking poll, who was the most accurate of the 2004 Presidential campaign, has this election in a statistical dead heat! Obama is up by 2.8 points with a 3.5 point margin of error! Check out the internals of this poll here, really telling. It ain't over 'til it's over!

~Nate's Mom

Food, Fellowship & Friends

2008-10-27T20:25:00.002-05:00

We enjoyed some yummy food this weekend. Friday was my birthday and my mom gave me gift certificates to the Cheesecake Factory! Randy and I had a wonderful date night and he enjoyed his first experience at this great restaurant. Saturday it was off to Montgomery Inn at the Boathouse with Paul & Sarah and Bro. & Sis. Hooker. We had a fantastic dinner and lots of great conversation! Here are some pictures of our evening at the Boathouse.

Ribs & Shrimp was the dinner of choice!

I don't like ribs so a pork chop with Mediterranean Pasta was my choice.

Sarah and Sis. Hooker

Bro. Hooker, Paul & Randy all bibbed up and ready to go!
I was behind the camera so no pictures of me. I tend to like it that way! ;o)

~Nate's Mom

Today's Endorsements

2008-10-27T19:58:00.002-05:00

Glenn Beck endorses Sarah Palin/John McCain
Michael Savage endorses McCain

Maybe this will help the 10-12% undecided voters

~Nate's Mom

WAKE UP AMERICA!!!

2008-10-27T08:36:00.002-05:00

My mom sent me this video clip today. It says it all! We better wake up in this country. We have 1 week left. Spread the word, volunteer at your local campaign headquarters and first and foremost PRAY PRAY PRAY!!!!!

This is a little long but really worth your time!

http://oldbluewebdesigns.com:80/USSA.htm

~Nate's Mom

Two Great Ads

2008-10-25T04:08:00.001-05:00

I'm Joe the Plumber - Part 2

2008-10-23T13:28:00.001-05:00

Sarah Palin with Dr. Dobson

2008-10-23T10:30:00.001-05:00

Listen to this great interview here.

~Nate's Mom

Meanness Comes Close to Home

2008-10-23T09:46:00.006-05:00

This is my mom's truck, you can read more about her sign here. My sweet mother was subjected to an obscene gesture by an angry person on the way to work this morning. Why are these people so angry?

Home Shot up over McCain Sign
Car Displaying McCain Sticker Vandalized
Steal A McCain Sign Get a Free Pizza
Traditional Marriage Supporters Vandalized

~Nate's Mom

Don't Lose Hope

2008-10-23T09:32:00.002-05:00

It's easy to get discouraged when listening to and reading the news these days, but don't lose hope. Read this encouraging transcript from The Rush Limbaugh Show about the polls.

The AP Poll
IBD/TIPP Poll
Fox/Rasmussen

~Nate's Mom

I'm Joe the Plumber

2008-10-23T09:29:00.001-05:00

Go Sarah Go!

2008-10-21T22:49:00.000-05:00

Liberal Thinking!

2008-10-21T22:40:00.003-05:00

Barney Frank on the economy:

Immediate increase in spending - Yeah that's the right thing to do when your in debt up to your eyeballs!

Deficit fear needs to take a 2nd seat - Ignoring the problem will make it go away?

Tax Increases - That always helps!

Tax the rich people to recover some of the money - Have you ever gotten a job from a poor person?!

Posts

2008-10-21T09:26:00.002-05:00

I hope you aren't getting tired of the political posts on my blog. I'm a news junkie and this election is SO VERY IMPORTANT. I want people to be informed. Hopefully it will all be over in 2 weeks. Hang in there with me until then!
~Nate's Mom

What If Sarah Palin Said These Things?

2008-10-21T09:19:00.002-05:00

Just a Guy in My Neighborhood

2008-10-21T08:43:00.003-05:00

Fairness Doctrine

2008-10-20T10:46:00.002-05:00

This is what we have to look forward to in an Obama/Biden administration with a Democrat controlled congress!

DEMS GET SET TO MUZZLE THE RIGHT

McCain Supporters

2008-10-20T10:38:00.002-05:00

In light of the hoopla surrounding Gen. Colin Powell's endorsement of Barack Obama I thought I would let you know of all John McCain's supporters. Why isn't this all over the media?!!!

Norman Schwarzkopf Endorses McCain
John McCain earned the endorsement of Gulf War commander Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf Wednesday.
FOXNews.com
Wednesday, January 23, 2008

John McCain earned the endorsement of Gulf War commander Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf Wednesday.
Schwarzkopf, who with McCain in 2004 was openly critical of then-Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld over his handling of the Iraq war, said in a statement the Arizona senator "has served our country with honor in war and in peace."
"He has demonstrated the type of courageous leadership our country sorely needs at this time. For that reason, he has my complete support," he said.
McCain is in a tight race for the Republican presidential nomination, but most polls show him leading the pack following his wins in New Hampshire and South Carolina. He and his rivals are in Florida Wednesday ahead of the state's primary on Tuesday.
It is not clear whether Schwarzkopf will campaign with McCain, as former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger has done.
McCain thanked Schwarzkopf in a statement, saying, "General Norman Schwarzkopf's distinguished lifetime of service and uncommon devotion to our nation has earned him the respect and admiration of the American people. I am honored by his support."

McCain gets support from former secretaries of state
By Klaus Marre
Posted: 04/10/07 10:54 AM [ET]
Four former secretaries of state announced Tuesday they are endorsing Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) for president, providing his campaign with a needed boost.
Henry Kissinger, retired Gen. Alexander Haig, Lawrence Eagleburger and George Shultz all said they would support McCain. The former heads of the State Department said the senator’s leadership skills, his record and his vision make him the right choice for president in difficult times.
“The world’s challenges are radically changing and our country needs John McCain’s experience and optimism,” said Kissinger, who served as secretary of state from 1973 to 1977 and won a Nobel Prize for his efforts to end the Vietnam War.
“His record, character, and belief that America’s best days lie ahead make John McCain the right leader for these times,” added Kissinger.
The war in Iraq and the fight against terrorism are central issues in the election, and getting the backing of experienced foreign policy officials could help McCain’s struggling campaign. The senator finished only third in first-quarter fundraising and was also criticized for recent remarks he made in Iraq.
“John McCain has spent his life serving this country on the battlefield and in Congress,” said Eagleburger, who served as secretary of state under the current president’s father. “As our country adjusts to new challenges, John McCain’s experience and record as a common-sense conservative make him the best candidate for our country’s future.”
McCain said he was proud of the support, adding that he and the former secretaries of state “share optimism in America and dedication to winning the war on terror.”

Colin Powell

2008-10-19T12:59:00.002-05:00

Michelle Malkin has a great article on why Powell endorsed Obama today. Great read, find it here.

Universal Health Care Doesn't Work!

2008-10-17T12:44:00.002-05:00

Hawaii ending universal child health care

By MARK NIESSE, Associated Press Writer Mark Niesse, Associated Press Writer – Fri Oct 17, 3:29 am ET

HONOLULU – Hawaii is dropping the only state universal child health care program in the country just seven months after it launched. Read more here

~Nate's Mom

Joe The Plumber: Obama Tax Plan 'Infuriates Me

2008-10-16T07:50:00.001-05:00

Read about it here.

Pray

2008-10-15T08:07:00.003-05:00

Don't forget to spend some time in prayer for the debate today. We serve the God who parted the Red Sea, turned the water into wine, made the blind to see, the lame to walk, and raised the dead to life again. He did all that and I believe in my heart of hearts that He can work a miracle tonight! Let's join together in prayer.

~Nate's Mom

Global Warming?

2008-10-15T08:06:00.002-05:00

Alaska glaciers grew this year, thanks to colder weather

By Craig Medred | Anchorage Daily News

Two hundred years of glacial shrinkage in Alaska, and then came the winter and summer of 2007-2008.

Unusually large amounts of winter snow were followed by unusually chill temperatures in June, July and August.

Read the rest of the article here.

It Never Ends!

2008-10-14T13:36:00.002-05:00

First the little children sing to him ~

Then they march ~

And now Michelle Malkin reports on the Reason #99,999,988 to homeschool: Obama-fied textbooks! Read about it here.

74% of CEOs Believe Obama Disastrous for Nation

2008-10-14T12:23:00.001-05:00

Read the whole article here.

~Nate's Mom

WATCH THIS!

2008-10-12T14:21:00.002-05:00

Please take 11min. of your time and watch this video clip, post it on your blog and send it to your email list.

OUTRAGEOUS!

2008-10-10T21:39:00.003-05:00

This campaign gets loonier (is that a word?) by the day! You have probably seen the headlines by now that the Kangaroo Court in Alaska found that Sarah Palin abused her power but you probably won't hear that they also said she had the right to fire Monegan! I found this ad by the McCain campaign and gives this news a fresh perspective. It seems like we are living in the midst of a circus these days. I'm ready for it to end, but like I told someone today, I'm almost afraid what will happen in the end! We've got to pray people! Do not take the main stream media's word on this or any other issue regarding Gov. Palin, do your own research, get the facts, Google these names, Sen. Hollis French (Democrat), Sen. Kim Elton (Democrat), Steve Branchflower (colleague of both of these men and of Walt Monegan!) What a surprise that they scheduled this in the middle of October, can you say "October Surprise!"?

~Nate's Mom

SARAH!

2008-10-09T22:48:00.008-05:00

My pastor's wife, Sis. Hooker and I had the privilege of seeing Sarah Palin in Wilmington, OH this evening. We arrived at the Robert's Center at 1:50pm to find that there were probably over 100 people in line already, the doors did not open until 4 and the program started at 6pm, Sarah did not arrive until 7 and spoke for about 30 - 40 mins. It was extremely hot in the building and we were standing shoulder to shoulder with some 10,000 other excited supporters. After a lady passed out and 3 or 4 others left because of the heat we were able to inch close enough for Sis. Hooker to get Sarah's autograph for her and Willow's autograph for me. Here are the pictures from another amazing day supporting McCain/Palin for President and Vice President! GO SARAH!
~Nate's Mom

The line when we arrived

Sis. Hooker and Me, we were both surprised that we matched!

The Media

The Vendors

The line was so long by the time the doors opened, it snaked in and out of the parking lot aisles as far as I could see!

My Congressman, Mike Turner

The Pledge of Allegiance with the Boy Scouts

Sarah's Secret Service arrives

They had a big screen showing the bus coming down the road and into the parking lot, I was so surprised when it came right in the side of the building!

They drove the bus right in the buidling!

Happy to be in Wilmington, OH

Gov. Palin

Sarah, Piper, Willow and Trig

Chewing the Bengals Pom Pom

Baby Trig!

Piper entertaining her baby bro

Piper with glasses just like her mom's

The Press Corps getting their shots

I put my camera over my head and took a picture of the crowd behind us, the paper reported there were between 10 and 11,000 people there!

Signing Autographs - I have never been pushed and shoved so much in my life! Everyone was anxious to have the Gov. sign their items. At one point a very stern looking Secret Service Agent shouted, "STOP SHOVING!"

A view from the back as we left