Tomorrow is Election Day

OK, I'm sure nearly everyone in the country is nervous today. At least, if they aren't, they must have their heads in the sand somewhere the sun doesn't shine and the rain doesn't fall.
I work at the polls tomorrow, so that will ease my nerves a little through the day, especially since I am an Idahoan and don't have to worry about the general direction of voters in my state.
Come on, Americans -- let's do this!!

Making Calls Today

At 9:00 a.m., I went in to make some calls to Ohio voters through the online Romney-Ryan campaign outlet and had made only a couple before the notice came on my screen that there are "No More Voters" to call.
Wow. That's saying something about the organization of the campaign and the impetus of this movement. The identification methods for getting the vote out "on the ground" is better than it has ever been, and now, it appears the only thing left to do is pray . . . no problem!!

A Vote for Mitt Romney

A vote for Mitt Romney is a vote for the return of America as the great country it was and can be again.

Voted Yesterday

Yesterday, Helen Perry and I took Dorothy Browning and Evelyn Chase to the polls to vote early. We had thought we would have an easy time of it, but the lines were long. We talked to some officials about moving up in line due to the ill health of Evelyn and Dorothy. Fortunately, they let the four of us cut in line. We ended up getting finished within an hour. What a relief! Evelyn and Dorothy could never have stood in line 10 minutes, much less a couple of hours. Afterward, we went for pie at Marie Callendar's. I had strawberry-rhubarb ala mode, and it was delicious. Dorothy bought the pie for all of us. I'm feeling lots better today and think Romney is going to win. Just a few more days of this suspense!!!

Huge Storm on the East Coast

The name of the storm is Sandy, and it's already on record as being the second most devastating storm in the nation ever. Katrina was first just a few years ago. The timing of the storm looks to be an advantage for Obama because he is able to use the mainstream media to appear across the nation looking presidential and acting like a leader should--but too late for the lives of the Libyan ambassador and three other brave Americans who were killed because of his lack of leadership when they were struggling for their very lives just a few weeks ago. The Libya story gets almost no play in the media, which has a strong bias for Obama. I'm a little discouraged tonight.

America's Role in the World

"Internationally, President Obama has adopted an appeasement strategy. He believes America's role as leader in the world is a thing of the past. I believe a strong America must--and will--lead the future."

-- Mitt Romney --

Business Is About Dreams

"Business and growing jobs is about taking risk, sometimes failing, sometimes succeeding, but always striving. It is about dreams. Usually, it doesn't work out exactly as you might have imagined. Steve Jobs was fired at Apple. He came back and changed the world."

-- Mitt Romney --

Washington's Liberal Politicians

"Sometime I wonder whether Washington's liberal politicians truly understand the greatness that is America."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

Honoring the Military

"We reserve our deepest respect and admiration for those who volunteer for service and give their lives to help keep our nation secure."

-- Mitt Romney --

Free Enterprise

"Free enterprise has done more to lift people out of poverty, to help build a strong middle class, to help educate our kids, and to make our lives better than all the programs of government combined."

-- Mitt Romney --

American Principles

"We believe in individual initiative, personal responsibility, opportunity, freedom, small government, the Constitution. These principles, these American principles are key to getting our economy back to being successful and leading the world."

-- Mitt Romney --

What Makes America Great

"What makes America the greatest nation in the world is the heart of the American people; hardworking, innovative, risk-taking, God-loving, family-oriented American people."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

When Government Takes Money From the People

"I spent my whole life in the private sector, 25 years in the private sector. I understand that when government takes more money out of the hands of people, it makes it more difficult for them to buy things. If they can't buy things, the economy doesn't grow. If the economy doesn't grow, we don't put Americans to work."

-- Mitt Romney --

The Family Here at Home

"America cannot continue to lead the family of nations around the world if we suffer the collapse of the family here at home."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

Leadership

"Leadership is about taking responsibility, not making excuses."
                                 -- Mitt Romney --

On Dependency

"Dependency is death to initiative, to risk-taking and opportunity. It's time to stop the spread of government dependency and fight it like the poison it is."

-- Mitt Romney --

Religious Liberty

"Religious liberty is the first freedom in our Constitution. And whether the cause is justice for the persecuted, compassion for the needy and the sick, or mercy for the child waiting to be born, there is no greater force for good in the nation than Christian conscience in action."

-- Mitt Romney --

The Invisible Hand of the Market

"The invisible hand of the market always moves faster and better than the heavy hand of government."

-- Mitt Romney --

Welfare Without Work

"People from both political parties have long recognized that welfare without work creates negative incentives that lead to permanent poverty. It robs people of self esteem."

-- Mitt Romney --

Our Blueprint

"Our plans protect freedom and opportunity, and our blueprint is the Constitution of the United States."
-- Mitt Romney --

Trust in God or in the Government?

Mitt Romney's message resonates with the motto engraved on every American coin and bill:
"In God We Trust."
President Obama's message resonates with the motto "In government we trust."
Can it get any more clear?

Reapply Our Founding Principles

Mitt Romney is prepared to reapply America's Founding Principles as documented in

• The Constitution of the United States
• The Bill of Rights
• The Declaration of Independence
• The Gettysburg Address

Reapply American Values

Mitt Romney is prepared to apply three primary values found on every American coin:

• In God We Trust
• Liberty
• ePluribus Unum (out of many, one)

The Sleeping Giant

Mitt Romney is prepared to awaken the sleeping giant of opportunity and energy for every American citizen who wants to work and live the American dream.

Do You Want to Live Your Life?

Do you want to live your life, or do you want the government to live it for you?
Mitt Romney is prepared with ideas and skills to untangle the knots and free Americans to live their own lives.

Americans or Europeans?

Today, Americans face the same questions they faced in the 1700s.
Do we want to lead the world and be free Americans?
Or do we want to go along with the world's status quo and be Europeans?
Mitt Romney is prepared with skills and ideas to keep Americans . . . Americans.

Prioritize and Delegate

An effective president can prioritize responsibilities and delegate lesser ones to others.
Mitt Romney has done it in the past, can do it in the present, and will do it in the future.

President Obama? Not so much.
The proof is in the pudding.

Showing Up for Work

An effective president shows up for work and then does the work.
Mitt Romney has a record of showing up . . . for work . . . and getting the job done.

Mitt Romney's Record

Mitt Romney is prepared to be president.
He has a record of success, hope, transparency, hard work, and patriotism.
He doesn't just say the words. He lives them.

Serving Our Country

I jotted down a quote but am not sure who said it.
"Serving our country is above politics."
Mitt Romney is the kind of guy who is prepared to let his service to America speak louder than his words ever could.

Talking a Lot But Not Saying Anything

One Sunday after church, we quizzed our children around the dinner table,
"What did you learn in Sunday School?"
One of our sons replied, "The teacher talked a lot, but he didn't say anything."
His response was funny at the time, but now . . . whenever Obama's tired phrases of fame, blame, and shame are heard, it's not that funny anymore.

Mitt Romney is Uniquely Qualified

Mitt Romney is uniquely qualified to be president of the United States because of his character, his ability to work successfully with others, his heart for America and its citizens, and his success in the world of business.

American Exceptionalism

Definitions vary for the term "American exceptionalism." For now, I like my own: 

The United States of America is a nation apart in that it protects and promotes stewardship rights to individual property and liberty of thought, word and action. It is also a nation apart because its motto is "In God We Trust."  

While it is evident in the present election that many Americans no longer believe in the ideology of American exceptionalism, many still do. 

And I am one of them.

Obamanesia

Ok, you're probably not going to hear Romney use the word "Obamanesia" in an attempt to marginalize the small-minded "Romnesia" that is being used by a certain president and his campaign. Why not? Because . . . really? Mitt Romney has more class than that.
That said, I can use the word "Obamanesia" in reference to the distance Obama is trying to put between his rhetoric, his failed policies and his failed presidency because I have a lot less patience and a lot less class than Mitt Romney has.

A Scripture for Close Elections: 1 Samuel 16:7

" . . . man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

1 Samuel 16:7 (King James Version)

A Scripture for Close Elections: Joshua 1:6

"Be strong and of a good courage." Joshua 1: 6 (King James Version)

Honesty

Honesty is a crucial character trait for any effective leader.
Honesty is part of Mitt Romney's character.

President Obama?
Not so much.

The Sacred Rights of Mankind

"The sacred rights of mankind are not to be rummaged for, among old parchments, or musty records. They are written, as with a sun beam in the whole volume of human nature, by the hand of divinity itself; and can never be erased or obscured by mortal power."

- - Alexander Hamilton, 1775 - - 

Patriotism

"Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." 

-- Adlai E. Stevenson -- 

The Blame and Shame Game

"Any fool can criticize, condemn and complain -- and most fools do."
                              
                                    -- Benjamin Franklin --

Is President Obama Delusional?

It seems like President Obama actually believes whatever comes out of his mouth to be true. Yet, his statements often directly contradict each other. It behooves every American voter to ask the question,  
"Is President Obama delusional or does he just talk that way?" If he truly is delusional, how can he be competent to be president of the United States?

A definition of delusional: "A false belief in spite of invalidating evidence."

(American Heritage Dictionary)

Traditional Marriage

"Like me, the great majority of Americans wish both to preserve the traditional definition of marriage and to oppose bias and intolerance directed towards gays and lesbians."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

Cradle to Grave Assurance

"Now let me be clear. The path I lay out is not one paved with ever increasing government checks and cradle to grave assurance that government will always be the solution. If this election is a bidding war for who can promise the most goodies and the most benefits, I'm not your president. You have that president today."

-- Mitt Romney --

Obama's Reckless Agenda

"President Obama instituted the most anti-growth, anti-investment, anti-jobs measures that we have seen in our lifetime. Now he called his agenda ambitious. I call it reckless."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

Our Judeo-Christian Tradition

"Central to America's rise to global leadership is our Judeo-Christian tradition with the vision of the goodness and possibilities of every human life."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

My Highest Priority

"When it comes to the economy, my highest priority as President will be worrying about your job, not saving my own."

-- Mitt Romney -- 

How it is in America

"And that's how it is in America. We look to our communities, our faiths, our families for our joy, our support, in good times and bad. It is both how we live our lives and why we live our lives."

-- Mitt Romney  --

Reasons for Running for President

"I am running for president to help create a better future. A future where everyone who wants a job can find one. Where no senior fears for the security of their retirement. An America where every parent knows that their child will get an education that leads them to a good job and a bright horizon."

-- Mitt Romney --

The First Victim is the Truth

"It seems that the first victim of an Obama campaign is the truth." -- Mitt Romney --

Big Brother

"It's time for the party of big ideas, not the party of Big Brother."  -- Mitt Romney --

Stephanie Nye - A Mom for Mitt

This is Me at "Art in the Park" - Boise

This is me -- testing from my iPhone in hopes of posting "snippet" videos of other Moms For Mitt Romney. Thanks to Stephanie Nye, I got one video posted before other responsibilities took the wheel, and I abandoned the idea. Oh, well.
Go Mitt!

Is Mitt Romney a Christian?

A voter told me he will vote for Obama since Obama is the only Christian in the race. 

Interesting. 

Both candidates profess to be Christians. 

I assume this voter rejects all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as Christians.

Perhaps he should also consider rejecting Obama as a Christian because his middle name is Hussein. 

If I were a voter whose main criteria for casting a vote was that the candidate be a Christian, I believe I would refer to the advice Jesus Christ gave on the subject, 

"Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." Matthew 7:20 (King James Version)

A Scripture for Close Elections: 1 Cor. 5:8

"Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth."

1 Corinthians 5:8 (King James Version)

Dr. Oz and Michelle Obama

So Michelle was on the Dr. Oz show introducing the new and improved meals children will be eating at school now that legislation has passed to improve the school lunch budget. Dr. Oz pronounced the new and improved lunches more nutritious, and three school-age children pronounced them more yummy. The audience then pronounced the new budget and lunches superior in every way with their applause, and away we go.
And me? I feel like throwing up.

Amazing Grace

It's 9/11 once again  . . . time to reflect on fallen heroes and innocent people they tried to save.
Five of my grandchildren were born since that fateful day, part of the new generation of Americans. I echo the quote from a 9/11 survivor, whose name I didn't catch during the TV broadcast honoring those who died and whose four children have also been born since that fateful day;
"What I hope for my children's generation is that they can never forget the principles of freedom we enjoy as Americans."
 

Can Congress Balance the Budget?

This video explains in common-citizen language why the answer is "No."

http://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/EW5IdwltaAc?rel=0

Fear Vs. Faith

The thought of Barack Obama winning a second term as America's president causes fear in me.
When that thought occurs, I counter it with thoughts of American voters. And faith returns.

Be Strong and of a Good Courage

And while we're on the topic of God's words, these are the words God used in Old Testament times to counsel Joshua as he began leading Israel. It has timeless application to anyone who is willing to respect God's words and commandments as he or she aspires to assume roles of leadership,
"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest."*

*Joshua 1:9 (King James Version of the Holy Bible)

Bill Clinton's Talk at the DNC

I hear Bill Clinton gave a good speech at the Democratic National Convention. I also hear what a positive president Bill Clinton was because he was instrumental in putting some economic policies in place that worked. Good for him. It is not true that President Obama has mimicked Clinton in his ideology or his policy-making style, nor is it true that Obama has had similar successes to Clinton's. The 2012 election is about what is best for America, not what is best for the Democratic party. Obama's ideology and policies have failed and will fail miserably on every count. The choice is between Romney and Obama, and it's an easy one.

Is God In or Out?

At the DNC, the word God was reinstated in the Democrat Platform after it had been previously cut. The word God was put back in because that's what was written on the ever-present tele-prompter, as witnessed by convention attendees and those who watched the video alike, even though the necessary 2/3 majority vote was clearly not achieved after three tries.
So . . . the word God is now in the official platform of the Democrats again. Who can tell what that might mean . . . if anything?
In the meantime, Americans who understand history and are committed to learning from it will stick to putting their trust in God, the Creator, the healer of nations and individuals, his words and his time-honored principles, not in a word that may or may not represent Him.

Mitt Romney - Authentic

To his wife as she fulfills her role as wife and mother:

"I'm happy in life as long as I have my soul-mate with me."

"What you're doing is more important than what I'm doing."

-- Mitt Romney --

Celebrating Labor Day - 8.3% Jobless

As we celebrate the value of American workers on this Labor Day, here are a few excerpts from a News Release of the Bureau of Labor Statistics - U.S. Department of Labor - August 3, 2012*

THE EMPLOYMENT SITUATION —JULY 2012

Total nonfarm payroll employment rose by 163,000 in July, and the unemployment rate was essentially unchanged at 8.3 percent, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Employment rose in professional and business services, food services and drinking places, and manufacturing.

Household Survey Data

Both the number of unemployed persons (12.8 million) and the unemployment rate (8.3 percent) were essentially unchanged in July. Both measures have shown little movement thus far in 2012. 

Among the major worker groups, the unemployment rate for Hispanics (10.3 percent) edged down in July, while the rates for adult men (7.7 percent), adult women (7.5 percent), teenagers (23.8 percent), whites (7.4 percent), and blacks (14.1 percent) showed little or no change. The jobless rate for Asians was 6.2 percent in July (not seasonally adjusted), little changed from a year earlier. 

In July, the number of long-term unemployed (those jobless for 27 weeks and over) was little changed at 5.2 million. These individuals accounted for 40.7 percent of the unemployed. 

Both the civilian labor force participation rate, at 63.7 percent, and the employment-population ratio, at 58.4 percent, changed little in July. 

The number of persons employed part time for economic reasons (sometimes referred to as involuntary part-time workers) was essentially unchanged at 8.2 million in July. These individuals were working part time because their hours had been cut back or because they were unable to find a full-time job. 

In July, 2.5 million persons were marginally attached to the labor force, down from 2.8 million a year earlier. (These data are not seasonally adjusted.) These individuals were not in the labor force, wanted and were available for work, and had looked for a job sometime in the prior 12 months. They were not counted as unemployed because they had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey.

Among the marginally attached, there were 852,000 discouraged workers in July, a decline of 267,000 from a year earlier. (These data are not seasonally adjusted.) Discouraged workers are persons not currently looking for work because they believe no jobs are available for them. The remaining 1.7 million persons marginally attached to the labor force in July had not searched for work in the 4 weeks preceding the survey for reasons such as school attendance or family responsibilities.

*http://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf

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Equal and Same are Different

All men are created equal is different from all men are created the same.
We all have needs -- shelter, food, water, air, and belonging, to name a few.

That said, some equal people lack these basic needs.

Americans are predominantly Christian, and as such, they believe in following the example of the Good Samaritan in the New Testament. They share and share alike, supplying even strangers with basic needs as a brother or sister would. They also believe in the law of the harvest, i.e., they believe equal people reap what they sow as individuals. They do not believe in deserve and deserve alike.

To Increase Dependence

"If we increase our dependence, we will find an immediate decrease in our freedom to act."

-- Marion G. Romney --

Popularity Contest

I mean, if you're in high school and voting for Chairman of Congeniality, it might work to vote for the person whose main skills are being popular, telling stories and reading speeches. But when it comes to electing a president of the United States, it's get real time.
The last person we need as president right now is one who apologizes for America, who offers more candy from an empty barrel to more citizens, or who uses the word extreme to identify the candidate who promises a return to the founding principles upon which our country was built and maintained.

Redistribution of Wealth

"The utopian schemes of leveling [redistribution of wealth], and a community of goods, are as visionary and impracticable as those that vest all property in the Crown. [These ideas] are arbitrary, despotic, and, in our government, unconstitutional."*

-- Samuel Adams -- 

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Redistribution_of_wealth#cite_note-15

The "Tie of Marriage"

“There is certainly no country in the world where the tie of marriage is more respected than in America.”   

--Alexis de Tocqueville--

Americans Celebrate Success

"Americans celebrate success! We don't apologize for success."
--Mitt Romney--

Romney-Ryan Team: Three Words

Three words for the Romney-Ryan Team:

Bold. American. Leaders.

Pursuit of Happiness Vs. Pursuit of Fairness

Life is not fair. People who know and accept that life is not fair can be happy. Those who do not know and do not accept that life is not fair cannot be happy because they will always yearn for something that cannot be. Cry-babies who fantasize that life can be fair need to surrender their cell phones to the government and start planting rice in their backyards . . . but that would mean they would have to figure out how to distribute backyards to all whiners fairly.
Americans have a history of taking responsibility for their lives. They would rather pursue happiness than fairness.

LDS Political Neutrality

From The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Handbook of Instructions:

"Political Neutrality

The Church’s mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, not to elect politicians. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is neutral in matters of party politics. This applies in all of the many nations in which it is established.
The Church does not:

• Endorse, promote or oppose political parties, candidates or platforms.
• Allow its church buildings, membership lists or other resources to be used for partisan political purposes.
• Attempt to direct its members as to which candidate or party they should give their votes to. This policy applies whether or not a candidate for office is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
• Attempt to direct or dictate to a government leader.

The Church does:

• Encourage its members to play a role as responsible citizens in their communities, including becoming informed about issues and voting in elections.
• Expect its members to engage in the political process in an informed and civil manner, respecting the fact that members of the Church come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences and may have differences of opinion in partisan political matters.
• Request candidates for office not to imply that their candidacy or platforms are endorsed by the Church.
• Reserve the right as an institution to address, in a nonpartisan way, issues that it believes have significant community or moral consequences or that directly affect the interests of the Church.

In the United States, where nearly half of the world’s Latter-day Saints live, it is customary for the Church at each national election to issue a letter to be read to all congregations encouraging its members to vote, but emphasizing the Church’s neutrality in partisan political matters.

Relationships With Government
Elected officials who are Latter-day Saints make their own decisions and may not necessarily be in agreement with one another or even with a publicly stated Church position. While the Church may communicate its views to them, as it may to any other elected official, it recognizes that these officials still must make their own choices based on their best judgment and with consideration of the constituencies whom they were elected to represent.
Modern scriptural references to the role of government: Doctrine and Covenants, Section 134

Political Party Participation of Presiding Church Officers
In addition, the First Presidency letter issued on 16 June 2011 is a re-statement and further clarification of the Church’s position on political neutrality at the start of another political season. It applies to all full-time General Authorities, general auxiliary leaders, mission presidents and temple presidents. The policy is not directed to full-time Church employees.
"General Authorities and general officers of the Church and their spouses and other ecclesiastical leaders serving full-time should not personally participate in political campaigns, including promoting candidates, fundraising, speaking in behalf of or otherwise endorsing candidates, and making financial contributions.
"Since they are not full-time officers of the Church, Area Seventies, stake presidents and bishops are free to contribute, serve on campaign committees and otherwise support candidates of their choice with the understanding they:

• Are acting solely as individual citizens in the democratic process and that they do not imply, or allow others to infer, that their actions or support in any way represent the church.
• Will not use Church stationery, Church-generated address lists or email systems or Church buildings for political promotional purposes.
• Will not engage in fundraising or other types of campaigning focused on fellow Church members under their ecclesiastical supervision."

*http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/official-statement/political-neutrality 

To Be Green

A friend of a friend owns a palatial estate in an exotic location built from reclaimed wood. The reclaimed wood is the owner's statement that he is living an exemplary "green" life and is respectful of the planet and its limited resources. The home is the owner's second or third residence and has untold amenities, including a monstrous garage that, in all probability, harbors several high-end vehicles.
I'm probably just jealous, but if I had a lot of money to make statements, I might pass on the reclaimed wood one with so many other conflicting statements going on.

Definition of a Progressive

"Progressive (pro-gres-iv, noun) . . . is someone who worries that NBC, CBS, ABC, CNN and MSNBC are being ganged up on by Fox News."*

*Published in Mallard Fillmore cartoon by Bruce Tinsley

What's Fair?

My four and six-year-old granddaughters like everything to be fair. For example, if one gets a cookie, the other wants one right now.
In the adult world, fairness is a concept with limited value. For example, some people pursue education, work hard and have more money while some people who have not invested in education and hard work feel unfairly treated because those who have done their homework aren't enthusiastic about being unfairly taxed to support those who have not.  

Power Vs. Liberty

The defining question to ask in the 2012 presidential election:
Which candidate is running to protect and preserve the liberty of the American people and which candidate is running to protect and preserve the power of government?

The Designs of Republicans vs. Democrats

It appears the designs of the Republican Party are to restore the greatness of America, to strengthen and retain our rights and privileges, to preserve liberty for ourselves and our posterity, and to maintain the Constitution.
It appears the designs of the Democratic Party are to level the United States in the mix of world nations, to weaken and level the rights and privileges of all while demanding special rights and privileges for the few, to level the future of our children and grandchildren by presenting them with the responsibility to pay a debt they did not incur, to level entrepreneurship and the creativity of the individual, and to level religious freedom according to the dictates of the powers that be.

A Christian Nation

America was founded on principles of Christianity and is often referred to as a Christian nation. America is also a nation of religious freedom where people of all faiths can belong and practice their values and beliefs. Principles of Christianity--accountability, work, the worth of the individual to choose for him/herself and so many more--stand the test of time while nearly everything else ebbs and flows with time like the tide.
At this writing, the bottom line in America remains Christian principles, and those principles are represented by the Romney/Ryan team, in clear contrast to those of the present administration.

Pray for the World's Leaders

It's Sunday and a good day to pray for world leaders--no matter who or where those leaders may be. One idea is to pray that they will be blessed with honesty, wisdom and goodness. Other good days to pray for leaders of the world are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
You don't have to be religious to pray. If you are religious, any religion will do. Prayers in any language and of any and every denomination are heard and answered. Because the sincere prayers of anyone breathing are important to the God of us all, and they do make a difference.

Definition of Democracy

Reminding myself of definitions:
"Democracy is a form of government in which all eligible citizens have an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. Democracy allows people to participate equally—either directly or through elected representatives—in the proposal, development, and creation of laws. It encompasses social, economic and cultural conditions that enable the free and equal practice of political self-determination. 
A democratic government contrasts to forms of government where power is either held by one, as in a monarchy, or where power is held by a small number of individuals, as in an oligarchy or aristocracy.
Several variants of democracy exist, but there are two basic forms, both of which concern how the whole body of citizens—the sovereign power in any variant of democracy—executes its will. One form of democracy is direct democracy, in which citizens have direct and active participation in the decision making of the government. In most modern democracies, the whole body of citizens remain the sovereign power but political power is exercised indirectly through elected representatives; this is called representative democracy.
While there is no universally accepted definition of "democracy,"^[5] equality and freedom have both been identified as important characteristics of democracy since ancient times.^[6] These principles are reflected in all citizens being equal before the law and having equal access to legislative processes. For example, in a representative democracy, every vote has equal weight, no unreasonable restrictions can apply to anyone seeking to become a representative, and the freedom of its citizens is secured by legitimized rights and liberties which are generally protected by a constitution."*


*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Democracy

The U.S. is a Republic

It's good to be reminded that the form of government in the U.S. is that of a republic.
"A republic is a form of government in which the state is considered a "public matter," not the private concern or property of the rulers, and where offices of states are subsequently directly or indirectly elected or appointed rather than inherited. In modern times, a common simplified definition of a republic is a government where the head of state is not a monarch.
In modern republics such as the United States . . . the executive is legitimized both by a constitution and by popular suffrage.
For instance, Article IV of the Constitution of the United States "guarantee[s] to every State in this Union a Republican form of Government."<sup>*

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republic</sup> 

Pray for Children and Grandchildren

I'm 66. So far, it's been a great life. My children and grandchildren are young with much of life ahead. It makes me sick at heart to know they will have to pay for debt incurred by my generation. This is wrong. I know it. You know it. We all know it. Government can't fix it because government is just an idea with no power of its own. Only people who have the guts to do what is right--not what is politically expedient--can fix it. The Romney/Ryan team have the tools and the heart to start making things right.

What is Worth Fighting For?

My list of things worth fighting for:

• defending ourselves
• family
• property 
• rights outlined in the Constitution

My list of things not worth fighting for:

• power

Presidential Cookie Bake-Off - 2012

My friend, Stephanie Nye, dropped off a plate of cookies featuring two kinds of cookies with this note attached:
"Dear Friends, In 1992, the First Lady Cookie Contest began. Twenty years later, the tradition continues. Your patriotic duty is to taste and vote!"
Most of my family members weren't available, so I asked several friends to help. They tasted the cookies and voted for their favorite.  The oatmeal M & M cookies got eight votes, and the mint chocolate chip cookies received two.
Then, I opened the envelope revealing the winner, and . . . drumroll . . . the winning recipe belongs to . . . Ann Romney!!

*Unfortunately, I have egg on my face (no pun intended) since my daughter, Janette and I were the only two who voted for the mint chocolate chip cookies.

If Somebody Reads This

I wish my husband, Dan, were here to talk about politics with me because I know he would have creative ideas about what needs to happen to turn our country around. Unfortunately, he passed away of a sudden heart attack on November 20, 2004. He was an avid political analyst and patriot. I miss him and his big ideas very much.

The Capacity for Freedom

“Only a virtuous people are capable of freedom.  As nations become corrupt and vicious, they have more need of masters.” 

-- Benjamin Franklin --

The Freedom to Fail

Nobody wants to attach the word freedom to the word fail, yet all humans fail at times due to freedom.
For example, my friend, Suzy*, reports that our mutual friend, Lisa*, doesn't have health insurance. Lisa has several large dogs. Suzy is encouraged that Lisa will be compelled to buy health insurance when Obamacare is implemented since Lisa appears to place dog food ahead of her family's health.
I just wonder. Why is it the business of the federal government or Lisa's friends to prioritize her life?

*names changed

Our Founding Principles

Never at any time in the history of our country have so many Americans demonstrated that they are unclear about what has made and what will make The United States of America a great nation. It's not our wealth, our creativity, our accomplishments, our military, or even our vast variety of citizens. It's our founding principles*, which, when understood, acknowledged and followed, will lead this and any nation or individual away from dependence and despair and toward liberty, happiness and success beyond imagination.

*//quizlet.com/1383222/us-constitution-founding-principles-flash-cards/
*http://www.azpe.org/content.php?section=american&info_id=130

America Requires Positive Leadership

One of these names is not like the others:

George Washington
Abraham Lincoln
Harry Truman
Ronald Reagan
Barack Obama

Don't Get Me Started

And another thing that bugs me about the has-been Obama presidency is the memory of him telling the American people before his election that if something didn't work in his presidency, he would change tactics and do whatever works instead of repeating mistakes.
Yeah, right.

Did Olympians "Build That?"

I'm proud of the the athletes who have devoted years and untold sacrifices toward achieving their status as Olympians. It gnaws at my gut to hear reports of U.S. Olympians who receive phone calls from President Obama after winning medals. I wonder how these dedicated, young Americans would react if, instead of offering his congratulations, Obama spoke from the heart as he did when telling other  Americans who have succeeded in achieving their American dreams, "You didn't build that. Somebody else made that happen."

Blog Therapy

I started this blog during the pivotal presidential election in hopes of making a difference to at least one person, even if that one person is me. So far, I'm on track with that one person, and it feels good. Sometimes, unexpected things happen when I make goals, and this one falls into that category. Whenever I sit down to make an entry, I notice that political steam has been building since the last entry. Entering my thoughts releases the steam, and it's great therapy for this ordinary, patriotic American mom.

Go Team . . . Vote Mitt!!

Israel Our Ally

A recent message from Mitt Romney:
"It was a deeply moving experience to be in Jerusalem, the capital of Israel, last week.
You can't get much closer to the ideals and convictions of the United States than you do in Israel. We're part of the great fellowship of democracies. We speak the same language of freedom and justice and believe in the right of every person to live in peace.
The story of how America -- a nation still so new to the world by the standards of this ancient region -- rose up to become the dear friend of the people of Israel is among the finest and most hopeful in our nation's history. Israel and America are in many respects reflections of one another, and I am happy America has such a great friend and ally.
Thanks,
 Mitt Romney" 

*Check out Mitt Romney's new video on Israel, our ally:

https://secure.mittromney.com/donate/a-cherished-ally

Family Reunion

This weekend, our family gathered at a cabin near Garden Valley, Idaho for a family reunion. We enjoyed lots of eating and talking, exploring the area, a nail-biter Jenga tournament, wading, and board games. Each family provided a meal and an activity. Everyone pitched in for the work and play.  Looking back, it feels like the theme of our reunion was how all the adults, despite differences in personalities and processes, cooperated in concert to help the younger generation grow and make important family connections that will last. 
America needs to be more like a successful family reunion!

Tax Bill from Outer Space!

I didn't do my homework and am now responsible to pay a tax bill I didn't see coming.
I'm not opposed to paying taxes. What I'm opposed to is trusting my financial stability to self-serving  financial planners, then discovering that since I didn't do MY homework when I hired them, I am now mad at THEM when I lost money and things didn't go MY way. I know better and usually do better.
I believe most Americans know better and do better as well.
I believe a majority of Americans will do their homework and vote for Mitt Romney.

Chick-fil-A

It's impressive when business owners practice their religious beliefs in public. Like Chick-fil-A.
They are closed on Sundays in observance of the Sabbath, and they publicly extol their allegiance to the definition of marriage as the union between a man and a woman.
In America, we still have religious freedom and freedom of speech. Those who want to eat fast food have freedom to eat it elsewhere on Sundays, and those who believe in same-sex marriage are not barred from eating at Chick-fil-A between Monday and Saturday. It's still America.

"Be Strong and of a Good Courage"

I like the Old Testament scripture where Joshua is counseled three times by God before taking the children of Israel into Canaan . . . "be strong and of a good courage."* The third time the message is delivered, it is followed by "be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed."*
This is still good advice for today.
I believe the November presidential election is the most important election of my life.
I'm glad for God's words to "be strong and of a good courage" because my personal freedom and independence are important to me. I strongly object to an ever-more-encroaching government depriving Americans of the rights and responsibilities of governing themselves as long as their thoughts, words and actions do not infringe on the rights of others.

*Joshua 1:6, 7, 9 (King James Version)

Reason #1 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney believes in Americans, that they are capable, innovative and remarkable as individuals and as a people. Give Americans life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness with a minimum of rules and regulations, and they will take it from there, surprising the world as they have done in the past and will continue to do in the future with all that can be accomplished.

In the meantime, Romney's opponent marginalizes the abilities of Americans to be responsible for their own decisions, marginalizes the achievements of Americans who have followed and accomplished their American dreams, and marginalizes the idea of Americans rising without government intervention.

Reason #2 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney has common sense that trumps ideological mumbo-jumbo every time.

Reason #3 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney is interested in upholding and defending the Constitution, not marginalizing, disregarding or trying to change it.

Reason #4 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney is not and never was stuck in remedial economics.

Reason #5 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney is opposed to adopting the failed government models of other countries.

Reason #6 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney can run on his record.

Reason #7 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney isn't into passing an inheritance of debt down to his great-grandchildren . . . or mine.

Reason #8 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney leads from the front of the pack, not from behind.

Reason #9 to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney believes in less government, not more.

10 Reasons to Vote for Mitt

Mitt Romney can keep his "story" straight without a teleprompter.

Violence in America

Our nation reels again with news of horrific acts of violence caused by a single shooter in Colorado.
It's no secret that Americans love their violence--on the screen, that is.
Should we be surprised when, as violence on the screen escalates, so does violence in America?

Meanwhile Back at the Ranch

Getting the economy straightened out is front and center now. I get that.
Meanwhile, whether we like it or not, wars and contention are escalating in the world that may necessitate our involvement. Nobody wants to think about that, but some Americans must think about "providing for the common defence."*
Double meanwhile, President Obama continues to pare down the military as if being nice and doing away with the military also does away with the need for one. He also goes about making apologies to world leaders for what he deems as politically incorrect U.S. manners. Can he be trusted to "secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity?"
No . . . NO . . . NO!

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html
*Preamble to the Constitution:
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

And Then There Was Change

Most politicians promise change.
It's hard to recollect a politician who used the promise of change more than Obama did in 2008.
And then there was change.
It appears he's using the promise of change a lot less to sway voters in 2012, if he's using it at all.
Maybe that's because the kind of change he peddles hasn't worked itself out for the country or for himself.
And maybe that's because there's no evidence it ever will.

The Truth Comes Out . . . Again

I'm still trembling (literally) after watching the clip of President Obama challenging the American dream with these words, "If you've got a business, you didn't build that. Somebody else made that happen."*
This statement and those preceding it are raw unprocessed Obama.
It's hurtful to millions of Americans who have made untold sacrifices in the name of their American dreams, including my own family in this generation and those of the past. Look to your own family, past and present, for examples. You will find clear evidence that American dreams are realized through adherence to time-honored principles embedded in the Constitution, not through benefits and infrastructure provided by the government.

* http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/07/17/business-groups-criticize-obama-over-remarks-about-government-role-in-success/#ixzz20u1jFYRA

Water Party Today

This afternoon, my three youngest granddaughters, ages one to five, came for a water party in the brook that runs through my backyard. We splashed and waded, caught water skippers and sent leaf "boats" from one end of the brook to the other. Afterward, we dried off and shared mac and cheese with chocolate milk. It was great fun under sunny skies.
Lately, I've been wondering what kind of world these little ones will live in as adults.
I want for them a continuation of opportunities for their own American dreams. 
That means less government and less debt, not more.
Mitt Romney for president.

For the Strength of the Hills

Today in church, we sang the patriotic hymn, For the Strength of the Hills, based on verses written by Welch poet, Felicia D. Hemans (1793-1835).*

One stirring stanza in the hymn is: 

"We are watchers of a beacon

Whose light must never die;

We are guardians of an altar

'Midst the silence of the sky.

Here the rocks yield founts of courage,

Struck forth as by thy rod.

For the strength of the hills we bless thee,

Our God, our fathers' God."*

Hermans' "appeal lay in her ability to write emotional verses expressing the sentiments of her time"* And ours. 

*http://digital.library.upenn.edu/women/hemans/biography.html
*http://www.losthymnsproject.com/14_Texts/For_the_Strength_of_the_Hills.pdf

Mitt Romney and the NAACP

It was brave of Mitt Romney to accept the invitation to speak before the NAACP. It might have been safer if he had changed elements of his consistent message, but he didn't. And he was booed when he said a goal of his presidency would be to repeal Obamacare.

Meanwhile, President Obama turned down the same invitation. 

Mitt Romney is now being criticized for supposedly setting the NAACP up to boo him.

Ya gotta love America--even though--politics can be confusing to an average citizen.

George W. Bush Did It

Congress is upset about news of the US Olympic Team uniforms being made in China.

Newsmax* quotes Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid as saying, "I think they should take all the uniforms, put them in a big pile, and burn them and start all over again," House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi added, "they should be wearing uniforms that are made in America," and House Speaker John Boehner said, "You'd think they'd know better."

Something tells me with a little digging, this uniform fiasco can be blamed on George W. Bush,

*Newsmax, July 13, 2012-- http://www.newsmax.com/US/Olympics-uniforms-made-China/2012/07/12/id/445194?s=al&promo_code=F749-1 

We Need A President, Not a Salesman

President Obama is well-known for carefully crafting his "story" to match his audience. In an interview with CBS News' Charlie Rose, he made this incredible statement on point:
"When I think about what we’ve done well and what we haven’t done well. The mistake of my first term – couple of years – was thinking that this job was just about getting the policy right. And that’s important. But the nature of this office is also to tell a story to the American people that gives them a sense of unity and purpose and optimism, especially during tough times."*
President Obama appears to be in a bubble of denial, not even attempting to connect the dots on his failed policies. It's a stretch to believe he is completely clueless. Look, even an infallible salesman can only get away with selling products that don't work for so long! 
We need a president, not a salesman. 
Today, more than ever, we need Mitt Romney.


*+http://www.mediaite.com/online/obama-on-biggest-mistake-of-his-presidency-to-cbs-policy-was-right-salesmanship-was-lacking/

"Home of the Brave"

The history of American music is like a brush stoke on the canvas of music history.

I realized that recently while taking a crash course at BSU.

A nation's music is often descriptive of its character. No surprise there.

The surprise is in realizing that American music is as diverse, as innovative, as stunning, and often as startling as Americans themselves--everything from John Philip Sousa's Stars and Stripes Forever to Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring to Stevie Wonder's Suspicion, and that's not even a start.

Yup. The home of the brave is like that.

Leftist Values

In his book, Still the Best Hope, Dennis Prager describes three primary value systems presently vying for world authority. In Prager's words, "The future will be Leftist, Islamist, or American."
He continues with, "Left refers to the values associated with the Western welfare state, secularism, and the vast array of attitudes and positions identified as left, from Karl Marx to contemporary socialist democrat parties, and today's Democratic Party in the United States. Identifying leftist values and explaining why people adopt them is far more difficult than identifying and explaining American values or Islam and its values."

Islamist Values

In his book, Still the Best Hope, Dennis Prager describes three primary value systems presently vying for world authority: Islamist, Leftist and American. 
He states, "The three ideologies are incompatible."
According to Prager, "Islamist does not refer to the 1.3 billion people around the world who identify with Muslims. I am referring to those within the Muslim world who wish to see as much of the world as possible governed by Sharia, Islamic law.
The word Islam means submission to Allah, and that submission is manifest by adherence to Islamic law in a state that is governed by Sharia, and whose leaders are Muslim clerics, though strictly speaking, there are no clergy in Islam."

American Values

I probably learned in elementary school that every American coin is etched with the words 

• LIBERTY
• IN GOD WE TRUST, and 
• E PLURIBUS UNUM (out of many, one)

Back in the day, I could read the words on coins without verifying them with a magnifying glass.

Dennis Prager reminds us of these core American values in his book, Still the Best Hope.  

Prager's thesis is distilled in this statement:

"There are three ideologies competing for the allegiance of mankind. This competition shapes much of the present world, and the outcome will shape humanity's future. They are Islamist, Leftist, and American."

Still the Best Hope

I'm reading Still the Best Hope by Dennis Prager. In a nutshell, Prager describes the three primary value systems presently vying for authority in the world:

• Islam
• American
• Leftist

This book is a must read for those interested in figuring out what is really going on in America today.

"For Such a Time as This"

Individuals who want to make a difference can relate to the Biblical story of Mordecai, who influenced Queen Esther with the question, " . . . who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"* Consequently, Esther approached the king at the peril of her life, thereby saving her people.
I believe every citizen is born to make a difference, however insignificant that difference may appear through the lens of others. With courage and commitment, I can stand up and speak up for what I believe, joining others in making a difference now.
*Esther 4:14

"Thy Liberty in Law"

A tenet of my religious faith is, "We believe . . . in obeying, honoring, and sustaining the law." Adherence to this tenet doesn't mean I must like or agree with all the laws.
For example, I don't believe money earned by hard-working citizens should be freely distributed to able-bodied citizens who are not required to work for it. This destructive pattern breeds dependence and even contempt from the very citizens whose lives it is designed to bless. If welfare recipients were required to participate in continuing education, citizens on both sides of the dole could ultimately benefit.

Happy Fourth of July!

I spent the Fourth of July studying for a final exam with no fireworks except those going off in my brain. The exam is scheduled for tomorrow at BSU -- Music 100 -- a five-week-three-credit-hour-40-hour-instruction-80-hour-studying sprint that has been downright fun. The best part is the good grade I'm going to get on the exam. I take that back. The best part is that Boise State offers citizens who are age 60+  the sweet deal of paying $5. per credit hour in addition to the learning.
What a country . . . Happy Birthday America!

"Confirm Thy Soul in Self Control"

The idea that government can improve America by attempting to control everything from the weather to the health choices of citizens is hardly rational.
It's like, let's concern ourselves with controlling the above, but hands off culprits who go door-to-door impregnating teenagers who then require government assistance to raise their children.
How ridiculous is that?
How about less failed government control and more citizens practicing self control.

"God Mend Thine Every Flaw"

God's help would come in handy mending the flaws our country faces now.
I know, I know. Some citizens don't believe in God, and that's their right.
Still, most of us believe.
I believe God will help when we study and attend to His priorities, when we give Him credit for knowing what to do and how to do it, and when we align our behavior with His timeless principles.

Who Made This Mess?

Sometimes, I discover a mess in the house and ask myself, "Who left this mess?" Then, I am reminded  that I live alone. I review my responsibility and clean it up.
Granted, President Obama is not wholly responsible for the mess in our economy. That said, his decisions have made the mess bigger. There is no evidence that he will take responsibility or clean up the aftermath of his failed economic policies.
Instead, the country is being ask to move forward toward vistas of unbridled messes ahead.
Mitt Romney is more invested in cleaning up the mess than in assessing blame to everyone else who helped make it.

"Sweet Freedom's Song"

I stumbled across the phrase "sweet freedom's song" while singing "My Country 'Tis of Thee" today. Has it always been there?
I wonder. Which makes the most difference in the world, the official documents of freedom like The Declaration of Independence and The Constitution or little catch phrases like sweet freedom's song, that etch themselves deep into our hearts--phrases like "I have a dream," "In God we trust," "This land was made for you and me," "with liberty and justice for all," and ". . . of the people, by the people, and for the people?"
I know what my answer would be.

Just Say No

Just because a direction is deemed constitutional doesn't mean it's the right direction for the country.
Constitutional is not the same as "Americans want ObamaCare." Not by a long shot.


Mitt Romney's guiding statement(s) about this;


"As you might imagine, I disagree with the Supreme Court's decision and I agree with the dissent. What the court did not do on its last day in session, I will do on my first day if elected president of the United States. And that is I will act to repeal ObamaCare."

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2012/06/28/transcript-romney-remarks-on-high-court-ruling-upholding-obama-health-care-law/#ixzz1zCL45vXP

Act to Repeal ObamaCare

Today, the Supreme Court announced its decision that the ObamaCare "tax" is constitutional.
Today, Mitt Romney announced he will "act to repeal ObamaCare"on his first day in office.
Today, it is more crucial than ever to elect Mitt Romney as president in November.

It's Not About the Constitution

The question is not whether ObamaCare passes constitutional muster.
The question is whether U.S. citizens want government to snatch even more control over their lives and their wallets.

I Can't Afford It

Sometimes I want something I can't afford.

What I can't afford might be good or bad for me. 

I get to decide what I want.

Still, the fact remains.

I can't afford it. 

I can't afford President Obama to be reelected. 

He's had his day, and things didn't work out 

Because his ideas are expansive, expensive and controlling. 

They snatch choices from me,

Not just money.

I can't afford that.
I can't afford the idea
That big government knows what's best for me.

And I just wonder.

Who can?

Happy Birthday to Me!

I'm 66 today and one year into retirement from my job as a middle-school teacher.
What am I doing today? Attending a music class at BSU ($5. per credit for people over 60), talking to my Colorado, Indiana, Hawaii, and Utah kids on the phone, and having a picnic at the newest park in Meridian with my Boise kids and grandkids.
God Bless America!
Next time I celebrate my birthday, I hope to celebrate it after the successful inauguration and seamless installation of Mitt Romney as 45th president of the United States.

Renee for President

Many ordinary American citizens have qualifications for the presidency that President Obama lacks. 

Number one, they have clear proof they were born in the U.S. 

Number two, they prove daily through words and actions that they"will (and do) to the best of (their) ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States." 

It's a plus when a president has more than the basic qualifications. Besides, most citizens who qualify aren’t interested in pursuing or preparing for the job. 

Mitt Romney is pursuing the job. He has the basic qualifications and so much more. He is prepared for it. 

Liberty and Justice for All

Americans are enveloping themselves in a culture of entitlement that contrasts sharply with the past. Sunshine, air, and gravity are "givens" that come with no strings attached. However, for starters--food, energy, health, and homes must be grown, harnessed, maintained, and built. Who deserves any of it or all of it and why? Do all deserve every? Do every deserve all? If a line is to be drawn, where is it to be drawn and by whom? If a line is not to be drawn, who gets to provide everything for all and how will they do that?
Just wondering.

The President's Oath of Office

Which of the two candidates running for the office of president is best prepared and qualified to take this oath? 
"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States."
I believe people who read and study the Constitution will answer this question the way I do.  
Mitt Romney

Choking Hazards

My ten-month-old grandson tries to put everything large and small into his mouth. We don't worry about most of the large things because they won't fit. It's the small things that can cause choking.
A lot of words come from the mouths of politicians. Some of their words have large scope, some have small. The rub comes when words spoken with seemingly small scope become choking hazards later.
There seems to be quite a bit of choking going on in the White House these days.

Words Have Meaning

President Obama has a gift for stating words clearly and convincingly.
After all, that's why he is . . . President Obama.
Lately, I've noticed something about when he is using this gift.
The words are very clean, almost sanitary, spoken with perfect diction and conviction.
Beautiful form.
But what do they mean?

"Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain."
-The Wizard of Oz-

History in the Making

Today, President Obama invoked executive privilege in the historic Fast and Furious issue which resulted in the death of an American border patrol officer and the deaths of over 170 Mexican citizens. Decades from now, my grandchildren can read this and know their Grandma Hawkley participated in a small way by watching, listening and waiting to see what the truth is and how that truth will come out.
God bless America.

A Weigh-In Quiz

According to the American Heart Association's 2012 Statistical Fact Sheet:
"Among Americans age 20 and older, the following are overweight or obese (BMI of 25.0 and higher):

- For non-Hispanic whites, 72.3 percent of men and 59.3 percent of women.

- For non-Hispanic blacks, 70.8 percent of men and 77.7 percent of women.

- For Mexican Americans, 77.5 percent of men and 75.1 percent of women."*

Which one of the following can accomplish the task of lowering these percentages: 

1. individuals who assume responsibility for improving health and lifestyle choices
2. corporations that select, serve, and market food 
3. websites that feature updated diets and nutrition facts 
4. government that provides new programs

Hint: Three of the above four possibilities are incapable of eating. 

*American Heart Association

www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@sop/@smd/documents/downloadable/ucm_319588.pdf

Happy Father's Day!

Just for today, I want to talk about two important fathers--my own and my children's.
My father liked to put pansies in a Dixie cup and set them on the kitchen table.
My husband brought roses, no reason, even when we couldn't afford them.
It's the little things I miss most.

The Obama Years

Something I learned as a mom:
If there's someone easier to tune out than a whining child, it's a whining politician.
Something else I learned as a mom:
After a few times of being tuned out, children learn that whining doesn't work.
In the meantime, after a few times of being tuned out, politicians learn . . . not so much.
Mitt Romney is not a whiner.

That Smile

Early in Mitt Romney's campaign for president, I attended a rally where he spoke.  I don't remember most of what he said, but it was similar to what he is saying now. What I remember is that smile. Mitt Romney likes people. He likes being around them. He likes talking to them and hearing what they have to say, even if their opinions conflict with his own. He has a sincerity about him that doesn't rely on the polls or a teleprompter. I came away from the rally knowing. Mitt Romney is a genuine American.

Flag Day

What the American flag means to me:
Red. A soldier's blood. Grew still and cold today. While mine pulses on.
White. God's light. Be still and know. Illuminating freedom, faith and family.
Blue. I boldly stand. Still with others. Or alone.

Bailouts

Occasionally, one of my children called from school with a desperate request that I deliver misplaced homework or lunch money. This service was never convenient, but I usually came through. That's because, even though they had behaved irresponsibly, I wanted to help them, and I could.
As a lowly taxpayer who has to carefully plan for financial stability, I am upset when forced by the present administration to participate in economic bailouts to mature institutions that have behaved irresponsibly amidst vast resources. I don't want to help, and besides--I can't.
With Romney, there's less chance I'll have to.