Let Us Be Men

I just read the story of Carol Decker for the first time today. You can read updates at their blog.

Almost one year ago today, Carol had an emergency ceasarian section to deliver her second baby, Safiya. Due to severe complications from hypertension from septic pneumonia, arteries to both her legs, one arm and her eyes blocked her circulation that forced amputations. Carol had both her leg's below the knees amputated, her left arm below the elbow amputated, her right ring finger amputated; and is now blind. All of that is due to ischemia from vasopressive drugs used to keep her blood pressure high enough to survive.



Carol now struggles with multiple surgeries, prosthetics complications, blindness, pain, learning to move again and being a young mother to two young little girls. She has a supportive husband who blogs about their progress, helps her function and even does her make-up. Now the Deckers are faced with medical expenses over the 2 million dollar mark and any help or words of love is always appreciated. Please see the this video from KOMO news, it is an amazing story.

I hope we all today, can be a little more thankful for what we do have in this world. That we can share a little bit of hope, prayer and service to those in need.

Carol's story and her supportive husband reminded me of this video about being a "real man". Elder D. Todd Christofferson, shares a touching personal experience and exhorts men to live by the attributes of true, Christlike manhood in this segment entitled "Let Us Be Men".



I hope you find yourselves uplifted today.

A Little Revamping

While my last post was on purging (and gaining) accessories for our home, today's post is on purging and gaining attitudes and activities for our lives.

Every so often, we decide that something has to change, even if just by a small measure. The full potential of happiness that a family can share together isn't happening as much as it could be in so many homes. Good, educational and bonding activities have been pushed to the side and have been firmly placed with forms of media, work, people who bring a negative shadow to your life, stress, mind numbing addictions... every now and then it is time to decide what needs to be lessened in the home.



Hours, timelines and rules often need to be set on the internet, cell phone and the video games usage.

By purging certain activities,we have more room for learning and growth as individuals and families. Less frustration with lagging controllers, frustrated gaming, slow modems, keeping up with other's updates and your own clever updates, deciphering texts, weary eyes and carpal tunnel, bored and lonely kids, sad,lonely and angry partners. All things that can be changed with a press of a button. A willingness to change.



There are too many important things in this life... Why would anyone want to throw those away on something that will not mean anything in the end?

"The American Journal of Psychiatry published an editorial claiming that internet addiction met the criterion for a mental disorder and called on the American Psychiatric Association to officially list it as such", read about it HERE.


The Quarantined

Are you interested in your family's internet/twitter/facebook/blogging/gaming/texting addiction level? Rob Kalin "rokali", former Etsy ceo and Etsy creator posted the link in the forums to this internet addiction test. Answer honestly!



We as a family have decided to put on the pause button in a major life changing way so that we can open our eyes and see what is missing. With all of our free time and cleared heads, there will be more time for creating lasting memories that matter.


There is no device connected

If you are looking to make changes in your media addicted family, please check out this news article and the video game widow's site, GamingSucks.com. It can be a long, lonely and painful journey, but it is one that must be taken. If you need further inspiration from a more spiritual source that may help you see the core of the problem, then check out this wonderful talk by David Bednar entitled "Things As They Really Are". text version, video version, audio versions.


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Special Touches

(mr. lovables took this photo!)

Well, my birthday was, interesting. One very hectic but overall pleasant day... boys (and dog) full of energy and a very tired mommy, but the hubs brought me flowers and a cheesecake, and my mom brought me a strawberry bannana jello-y pie and I read lots and lots of Eragon book 3 (Brisinger) and all was well.

And Oh, my camera, is totally fading. I like to thank my mini photog 3 year old for that. But fortunatly we got a warranty, so I will try and go tomorrow and get that baby replaced. Half the photos are great, the other half are like what I see every morning until I put my contacts in. :(



The Nester has called for those who have, or desire to have these LOVELY feather and egg prints by L. Hebert designs, and is having a linky party. Those who have the prints, are showing where they have been displayed and those who WANT the prints (totally me) are showing where we would display them IF we had them!!



Well, see that weird random wall cave above the couch. I would put the prints in a pretty little row just there, possibly with a feather adorned ribbon behind them in a lovely matted frame, ooo maybe with a mushroom bird perched on the end? You see, I added decorative items on the shelf for this photo, but in reality, nothing can go there unless it is mounted to the wall, as they will be eaten by my 2 toddlers (note, photo taken AFTER they had been put to bed!)

Here you can see a bit of the remodel I have going on... I got some gorgeous ebay vintage pillow slipcovers today... crewel embroidery on my Surefit slipcovered couches (I saved money by getting them on overstock and ebay)! The orange and white fabric thing ornamenting the back of the couch won't really go there, it is a pillow slipcover that needs stuffing! You can see my room inspiration of sfgirlbybay's mellow yellow post.



I'm on the lookout for some damask or harlequin print, round tufted pillows and affordable redwork, anyone know a source? I am a little bummed that I got outbid on a Pottery Barn Flokati rug... but it was for the best, methinks.

PS... how do you like my new headband idea? ;) watch for them in my shop soon...







ps, I used to *really* dislike my profile, but now I like to think as my large sloping nose and forehead as "exotic" ;)



I found this site today, Wimp, and happened upon sweet little 93 year old Clara Cannucciari. She is teaching potato egg drop soup, a Great Depression meal! She's a sweetie, and that soup looks good! I love what she says at the end "when you are done making the soup, you sit down... because your tired [giggle, sigh]."

Also, for Earth Day, we watched Jean-Michel Cousteau's Call of the Killer Whale. We learned that farmed fishing is totally evil and that children today have many many toxins radiating throughout their bodies due to flame retardant chemicals on clothing and diapers and such. It was actually, an amazing episode and just another reminder that we need to love the Earth and take care of it. Bamboo fiber, reclaimed vintage, organic cotton, baking soda and lemon, only flushing when you go number 2... here we come!

Faith

Salt Lake City Temple

As some of you may or may not know, the HBO show Big Love has aired an episode featuring sacred religious ceremonies in the temple that we keep very sacred and dear to us. The temple is a place where we strive to remain wholesome and worthy to enter into it's doors. People have taken the wear and symbolism out of context and consider us Mormons as peculiar and cultish because of these, yet they seem to forget that many religions and even secular events (such as a high school/college graduation...) wear ceremonious clothing and rituals.

I can honestly say, that the temple is one of my favorite places. I was married to my sweetheart for time and all eternity in the temple and have been blessed to be able to attend many times since. It is a place of refuge, of peace, of love, and a place where we go to worship our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

For The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints official statement on the television show Big Love, please read HERE

If you would like to learn more about why we go to temples, watch the video below about the blessings of the temple and a peek at what it looks like inside some of them.



For questions about our faith, please visit HERE.

To find out what members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Days Saints (otherwise known as Mormons) believe about Jesus Christ, please visit HERE.



Thank you for your peace and understanding!

Today is Rare Disease Day

The last day of February has been designated as World “Rare Disease Day” to call attention to the public health issues associated with rare diseases. The Project Charity — The Children’s Rare Disease Network has compiled some facts and figures about rare disease that we thought would be of interest. If you have other facts and figures not on our list, please send them to us. We are particularly interested in international facts on rare disease that do not seem to be available.

Please visit the Official Gallery page to see victims of rare disease.

DID YOU KNOW…

* Approximately 7,000 rare disorders are known to exist and new ones are discovered each year

* Rare disease affects between 25-30 million people in the United States and approximately 30 million people in the European Union

* One in 10 Americans is living with a rare disease

* Children represent the vast majority of those afflicted with rare disease

* Approximately 80 percent of rare diseases are not acquired; they are inherited. They are caused by mutations or defects in genes

* In the United States, rare diseases are defined as those affecting 200,000 or fewer people or about 1 per 1,000

* Rare disease is often referred to as an “orphan” disease

* Orphan or rare diseases are often not pursued by the pharmaceutical industry because they provide little financial incentive for the private sector to make and market new medications to treat or prevent them and because there are not enough patients to make research cost-effective

* Research on rare diseases can often lead to advances in our understanding of common diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and other major health problems

* As a whole, rare diseases represent a large medical challenge. Combine this with the lack of financial incentives to treat or cure rare diseases, and a serious public health issue is created

* The US Orphan Drug Act (ODA) of 1983 has been one of the most successful pieces of health related legislation ever enacted in the United States. Through a system of tax credits, government grants, assistance for clinical research, as well as seven years marketing exclusivity, the Orphan Drug Act has resulted in hundreds of approved orphan medicines, treating over millions of patients worldwide. Similar legislation has been adopted in Japan, Australia and the UK

* The US Orphan Drug Act has also been a detriment to healthcare. Many drug companies have accepted the challenge to be primary providers of rare disease drugs. Because they have no regulation and control over cost of medicines or competition (they are allowed to sell it without competition for 7 years), they can charge astronomical amounts of money for yearly treatments resulting in an extremly profitable business. Insurance companies often do not help pay for many of these drugs for victims of rare diseases who are dependant on the drugs for survival.

So, as we can see, rare disease are not that rare and need just as much support as well known diseases, like Breast Cancer.

Take a small moment to to pray for victims and research advancements. Make a small donation, put names on a prayer roll or write words of encouragement to a family who is struggling. Here are a couple of children that could use some love:



Hannah was born in July 2008. After birth, she had an enlarged spleen, very low platelets, and an enlarged liver. After many months of tests to try and find a diagnosis, a skin biopsy has diagnosed her with Gaucher's Disease, Type 2 or 3, a very rare genetic metabolic lysosomal storage disease with neurological and physical involvement and a life-expectancy of 2 (type 2) 15 to 20 (type 3) years or so. Hannah's mother is trying to spread the word about Gaucher's Type 2/3 Disease and any support you can give would be much appreciated. Visit her blog to find out about her story.



Baby Mia was diagnosed while still in her mother's womb with a rare heart disease called Critical Aortic Stenosis. She has had multiple surgeries, a heart transplant and many other complications. The McDonalds have insurance but after heart operations, a heart transplant, plus all the doctor visits and a lifetime of medicine... it would financially destroy the best of us, so any donations would be so helpful (they also accept giveaway donations to help raise funds). Visit HERE to find out about this special family and how you can help.



Cora Paige was a beautiful 10 month old girl that shortly passed away after being diagnosed with stage 4 cancer for only 3 weeks. Her parents are working to build a playground in her honor, to leave a legacy that will spread joy to other children. 100% of the proceeds of the sale of my Sugar Garland Necklace (shown below) will go directly to that fund, many other Etsy sellers have similar donations, search "Cora Paige" to find them. Read about it HERE. So far, $15,667.93 has been raised for this fund.



I know that there are SOOO many others out there, but these are the few I know of. Please take a moment to embrace your loved ones right now and enjoy them today in appreciation for the blessings we have in our families.

Verbal and Emotional Abuse. Recognizing Yourself as a Victim and How to Make it Stop.

Fruit of His Labor by dzaet

"Verbal abuse is damaging to the spirit. It takes the joy and vitality out of life. It distorts reality." -Paula Evans

This is a topic that has touched me recently and so I have been doing research on the effects of verbal and emotional abuse and more importantly, how to recognize yourself as a victim. It is often more damaging in the longrun than physical abuse on the victim. Because I am not a professional, I have put together information from experts in this field along with various resources for help.

"Your abuser’s apologies and loving gestures in between the episodes of abuse can make it difficult to leave. He may make you believe that you are the only person who can help him, that things will be different this time, and that he truly loves you. However, the dangers of staying are real." -Helpguide.org

"Domestic abuse often escalates from threats and verbal abuse to physical violence and even murder. And while physical injury may be the most obvious danger, the emotional and psychological consequences of domestic abuse are also severe. No one deserves this kind of pain—and your first step to breaking free is recognizing that your situation is abusive. Once you acknowledge the reality of the abusive situation, then you can get the help you need." - Helpguide.org

When lack of respect/support, abandonment, indirect/direct insults, "joking", ignoring/contributing to financial problems (financial abuse), economic dominance/financial control, insufficient resources to live (money, credit cards,), sabotaging your work, stealing from you/taking your money, blame, excuses, control, intimidation, humilation, belittling... are prevalent on a weekly and consitant basis, domestic abuse may be the basis of your relationship. (financial abuse info at bottom of post).

When your spirit starts to wither away, you are losing your self-esteem/confidence, you start to feel numb or helpless, you avoid certain topics out of fear of angering your partner, feel that you can’t do anything right for your partner and you begin to question your worth or sanity, and especially when it starts to effect other aspects of your life (home, housework, family, business, personality ie. outgoing woman becomes withdrawn...) you need help to figure out the underlying cause. For common questions answered by expert, Patricia Evans (author of the book and the lists below), please visit HERE. For another excellent resource with symptoms, dangers and how to get help, please visit The Domestic Abuse Helpine.

Often times, women will tell themselves "if only he would just hit me, or do something REALLY bad, then I will leave!", however, without setting your boundaries and knowing your breaking point, being conditioned and brainwashed (and perhaps told) that you are "going crazy" or just "too sensitive" are warning signs. Often times, the abuser is seen by those on the outside as a "good guy".

The book "Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay: A Step-by-Step Guide to Help You Decide Whether to Stay In or Get Out of Your Relationship by Mira Kirshenbaum, is an excellent book that touches on many many topics and will help you decipher if you truly are worrying too much in a happy and healthy relationship, if your relationship is salvagable or if it is dangerous to your body and/or spirit and you need to leave.

Below, I have compiled a list of surveys and text from the book The Verbally Abusive Relationship; How to Recognize It and How to Respond by Patricia Evans, a valued expert in this field. I strongly recommend this book if you feel you could be in an abusive relationship, or if you know someone who is. If you are a victim, this book will also give you insight on dealing with the abuser and recovery. Of the 40 women researched and interviewed for this book, only 4 of them stayed with the abuser and the average lifespan of the marriage was 16 years.

List "of the Primary Consequences of verbal abuse, which the partner/victim may experience":

1. A distrust of her spontaneity.
2. A loss of enthusiasm.
3. A prepared, on-gaurd state.
4. An uncertainty about how she is coming across.
5. A concern that something is wrong with her.
6. An inclination to soul searching and reviewing incidents with the hope of determining what went wrong.
7. A loss of self-confidence.
8. A growing self doubt.
9. An internalized "critical voice".
10. A concern that she isn't happier than she ought to be.
11. An anxiety of fear of being crazy.
12. A sense that time is passing and she's missing something.
13. A desire not to be the way she is- "too sensitive," etc...
14. A hesitancy to accept her perceptions.
15. A reluctance to come to conclusions.
16. A desire to escape or run away.
17. A belief that what she does best may be what she does worst.
18. A tendency to live in the future- "Everything will be great/better when/after..."
19. A distrust of future and other relationships.
20. A pit in her stomach.

List of typical characteristeics of an emotional and verbal abuser, in which they may have few, many or all and can be difficult to recognize, in no particular order:

 1. irritable
2. likely to blame his mate for his outbursts
3. unpredicatble (you never know what will anger him)
4. angry
5. intense
6. unaccepting of his mate's feelings and views
7. unexpressive of warmth and empathy
8. controlling
9. silent and uncommunicative in private or, frequently demanding and argumentative
10. a "nice guy" to others
11. competitive towards his partner
12. sullen
13. jealous
14. quick with come-backs or put downs
15. critical
16. manipulative
17. explosive
18. hostile
19. unexpressive of his feelings
 
Here is a survey with examples from the book, where it reccomends if more than 2 things apply to you, you are in an abusive relationship:

1. He seems irritated or angry with you several times a week or more although you hadn't meant to upset him. You are suprised each time. (He say's he's not mad when you ask him what he's mad about, or he tells you in some way that it's your fault).
2. When you feel hurt and try to discuss your upset feelings with him, you don't feel as if the issue has been fully resolved, so you don't feel happy and relieved, nor do you have a feeling you've "kissed and made up".
3. You frequently feel perplexed and frustrated by his responses because you can't get him to understand your intentions.
4. You are upset not so much about concrete issues- how much you spend time together, where to go on vacation...- as about the communication in the relationship: what he thinks you said and what you heard him say.
5. You sometimes wonder "what is wrong with me? I shouldn't feel so bad".
6. He rarely seems to want to share his thoughts or plans with you.
7. He seems to take the opposite view from you on almost everything you mention, and his view is not qualified by "I think" or "I believe" or "I feel"- as if his view is right and yours is wrong.
8. You sometimes wonder if he percieves you as a seperate person.
9. You can't recall saying to him "cut it out!" or "stop it!"
10. He is either angry or has "no idea of what you're talking about" when you try to discuss an issue with him.
11. He doesn't "remember" arguments that have effected you.
12. You may be so absorbed in raising a family or developing a career that you ignore the problems in the realationship thinking nothing is perfect anyway.
13. You do not have the self-esteem or confidence which demands that you always be treated with courtesy and dignity.
14. You believe your mate is rational in his behaviour toward you, so that he has "some reason" for what he says.
15. The abuser's behavior is alternately abusive and non-abusive, so that the partner is never sure whether or not the relationship is working. You are quick to forget unhappy feelings during the "up" times.
16. You may believe that if your mate provides for you, he really loves you.
17. You may believe there is something wrong with you.
18. You may never have considered the question "am I being verbally abused?"

This list is for teaching recognition of how the abuse makes you feel "crazy" is in the following checklist:

1. Feeling temporarily thrown off balance and momentarily to right oneself.
2. Feeling lost, not knowing where to turn, searching aimlessly.
3. Being caught off gaurd.
4. Feeling disconnected, confused, disoriented.
5. Feeling off-balance, as if the rug has been pulled from under one's feet.
6. Receiving double messages but somehow unable or fearful to ask for clarification (or asking for clarification but not getting it.)
7. Feeling generally "bugged" by the simple presence of the person.
8. To discover that one was mistaken in one's evaluation of where one stood or what it was all about.
9. Feeling totally unprepared for a broken promise or unfulfilled expectation.
10. Experiencing the shattering of an important "dream".
11. Where one assums goodwill, ill will seems to prevail.
12. One feels pushed around, not in control of one's own direction.
13. Unable to get off redundantly spinning circles of thoughts.
14. What seemed clear becomes muddled.
15. An uneasy, weird feeling of emptiness.
16. A strong wish to get away, yet feeling unable to move, as if frozen.
17. One is befuddled, not able to attack the problem.
18. Feeling vaguely suspicious that something is wrong.
19. Feeling that one's subjective world has become chaotic.


"Verbal Abuse Disguised as Jokes" pg 85

"Abuse disguised as a joke is a category of verbal abuse in which all of the women I interviewed experianced. It takes a quick mind to come up with ways of disparaging the partner either crassly or with wit and style. This kind of abuse is not done in jest. It cuts to the quick, touches the most sensitive areas, and the leaves the abuser with a look of triumph. The abuse never seems funny because it isn't funny.

Disparaging comments disquised as jokes often refer to the feminine nature of the partner, to her intellectual abilities, or to her competency.

If the partner says, "I didn't think that was funny", the abuser may, for example, discount her experiance by angrily saying, "You just don't have a sense of humor!" or "You just can't take a joke!" or he may accuse her antogonism by angrily saying, "You're just trying to start an argument." "You're too sensitive"" You don't know what you're talking about". "You're making a big deal out of nothing" "You twist everything around" "You read too much into my words" "You're looking for a fight". These statements themselves are abusive. (the last five examples I included are taken from the 'Discounting' as a form of abuse and is called "one of the most destructive forms of verbal abuse" by the author. Discounting is when the abuser 'discounts', denies and distorts the partner's perception of abuse and is therefore, one of the most insidious forms of verbal abuse.

It may be obvious to the reader that the abuser's responses do not demonstrate good will or an interest in the relationship. Unfortunately, the partner is usually not that clear about it. Since the abuser responds with anger, the partner may believe she did "take it wrong" and that is what he is angry about, or (as some partners of abusers do) she may wonder if there is something wrong with her sense of humor. The brainwashing effects of verbal abuse cannot be overemphasized... An abuser may also startle or frighten his partner, after which he will laugh as if it were a joke."

The 14 categories of verbal abuse touched on in this book are:

1. Withholding
2. Countering (arguing against her thoughts/veiws/perception and experiance, making you second guess yourself)
3. Discounting
4. Verbal Abuse Disgused as Jokes
5. Blocking and Diverting the real problem (changing the subject)
6. Accusing and Blaming
7. Judging and Criticizing
8. Trivializing (making something seem insignificant)
9. Undermining (witholding support, erodes confidence and determination, sabotaging)
10. Threatening
11. Name Calling
12. Forgetting (involved denial and covert manipulation, forgetting promises...)
13. Ordering and Demanding (You're not wearing that, Get me the remote now, You can't leave...)
14. Denial (I never said that, you're making that up, you're crazy, you get upset about nothing, I don't know where you got that)


An In Depth Look at Financial Abuse
What Is Financial or Economic Abuse?

"Financial and economic abuse is a form of domestic violence in which the abuser uses money as a means of controlling his or her partner. Financial and economic abuse is only one tactic that an abuser may use to gain power and dominance over his or her victim.

An abuser may deny his or her partner money. One way this is accomplished may be by forbidding a partner to be employed. This makes the non-working partner dependent upon the abuser for money. There are some economically abused women who are forced to beg their partner for everyday necessities such as diapers (for children), food and/or health care. If an abuser does permit his or her partner to work, he or she may be required to hand over their paycheck each week to their abuser.

Many times an abuser will give money to his or her partner. However, it may not be sufficient enough to meet the needs of the individual. Any monies that are given to a partner by an abuser will generally have to be accounted for and proof will have to be shown of all purchases.

Many financial and economic abusers will put all of the family bills in their victim’s name. At the same time, the abuser will not allow his or her partner to see bank records, bills or credit records. Many financial and economic abusers are not good with money and he or she will end up destroying the credit of their partners.

Some economic abusers who require their partners to do illegal acts for money. There are also abusers who will use any money brought in for children through welfare, child support checks, or monetary gifts on themselves.

Some financial abusers who refuse to work, putting the burden upon their partners to keep the household running. However, money that is brought in by the working victim is mishandled and squandered by the abuser. Then, the victim is berated if bills fall behind."

-------------------

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic abuse please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline or calling 1-800-779-7233 (SAFE).  Here is another resource on how to help someone who is being abused. Also, it can be hard to understand WHY they choose to stay, the article "Why don't they just leave? at the bottom of the above link can provide some insight.  Remember, there is ALWAYS a way out with qualified people and often times, friends and family are willing to help. Just think, if the abuse hasn't changed now no matter how hard you try to better or explain yourself, will it go on like this forever? No one deserves to be treated and devalued in these demeaning ways. Much love and peace to anyone who is dealing with this extremely serious, devastating and often misunderstood and downplayed issue.

Roughing It

Wood doll family -check her shop for paint your own kits by gemmie lou

This week has been a little bit rough. My grandmother passed away, which is fine. She lived a very long life and has been suffering a bit from dementia and a weakened body. I have not seen her since my father's funeral about 6 years ago, boy she was a hoot. My great uncle was kidding around, trying to make us smile at the funeral and told everyone to show some leg for the family photo, and she lifted up her skirt and flashed some skin! She has been a widow for almost 30 years. Her husband, son (my dad) died of the same disease and her daughter also has the same disease. Leukemia. Her death wasn't so rough on me emotionally though. We have all been prepared for it and are happy that her body will be renewed and her spirit reunited with her ancestors.


My grandma, Myrtice with Jimmy Carter when she worked at the Moultrie, Georgia newspaper.

This week has been rough because of decisions. Lots and lots of decisions to make this week. Deciding to take a moral stand, deciding to sever relationships or play the bad guy, when you are really trying to be the good guy...


Bunny Noses print by planBshop


Don't Shop, Adopt pin my The Dog Coat Lady

One tiny example, I was shipping a package and I see a man stuffing a scared looking pit bull in the trunk of his car (pits get stolen A LOT around here). After much deliberation, I called the police. I knew the guy saw me, and I tried to be discreet, but don't know how successful I was. Puppy mills (read about the bust this week HERE), crooked cops (6th paragraph down) that have effected innocent people, and other stories of abuse, poverty, neglect, war, death, babies and financial crisis have gotten me down a bit.


Bible passage Bookmark by My Treasured Creations

A lot of challenges we face have little to do with monetary/concrete/physical things, but the kind of mental battles you know you have to decide on that may hurt or help a person, and hoping it will help them but knowing it will hurt them too.


Love One Another print by persimmon and pink

One thing I heard the other day, was a tv pastor type (which I don't usually listen to by the way!) was talking about how we get down on ourselves when we see others suffering. He said, "no matter how sick we make ourselves, it won't help them. No matter how poor we make ourselves, we won't help them". He went on to talk about how we shouldn't feel guilty about what we have (well, unless you are rich from dishonesty of course!) because others are suffering, but we can still find ways to help others.


Fairy Love Angel by bonne singer

I think, that weeks like this, I reflect back and am so grateful for what blessings I do have. Also, it seems that I find ways in which I could improve. Perhaps I haven't been turning to the Lord for help and seeking for guidance in the scriptures as much as I should have. I haven't been nurturing my testimony like I need to. But, soon it will be another week. Things will soon pass, hopefully for the better. Next week, may or may not be just as rough, but I will try to remember the things I can do to remain uplifted no matter the challenges.

Here is a quick little feature, since today's theme seems to be a bit on the religious side. I browsed through countless pages of religious art on Etsy, and got sad because so much of it was anti and kitch, so I went with these cute boards and baby Jesus pictures instead! TikaKids makes cute activity magnetic boards and crayon totes that are perfect for keeping your little ones entertained at church/doctor offices/car rides. She offers both religious and not religious themed puzzle magnets for her boards.


For Unto Us a Child is Born by KotterKreations





Baby Jesus ACEO by Katerina Art

Tired

I have about one hundred projects in my head, 5 custom orders to finish, several orders to ship, a growing mountain of amazing supplies... and absolutely no motivation to do them. Then, there's dinner, and laundary, kids... Not to mention that our car air conditioning is broken and it is going to cost $800 to repair... just in time for Texas summer weather.

I was thinking about my issues and trying to map out schedules, and even though I knew about the earthquake in Japan, and am absolutely horrified, I saw some pictures that definately has humbled me.

This man is half buried under the collaped school. (REUTERS/Stringer)
I am amazed at how many natural disasters have occured these past couple of weeks, how many lives are gone, maimed or forever changed... and then I go about my daily life as if nothing has happened. It always leaves me with a sense of greater call that I need to do something. Besides prayers and donations, what can I do with 2 little ones at home? I have been wandering, if hurricanes get names... then what about earthquakes and tornados?

Rescued newborns from a collapsed hospital. (AP Photo / Cheng Chaosheng, Xinhua) This image has really struck me.


Housewife collages by DadaDreams.

On another note, tired as I am today, we had a quick, but yummy dinner. I rolled some sweet potatoes in foil and baked them for about an hour and a half, and then make some pre-cooked ham! It was easy, yummy and the only seasoning we needed was just butter for the potatoes. I even sneaked my baby his first bite of solid food, and he somewhat ate it, yumm!

A New Day

I have been sooo busy these past couple of weeks with custom orders and life, that I have greatly neglected my blog. Yesterday morning, my cousin Jordan died of a rare blood cancer commonly known as "rhabdo". We are all so deeply saddened by this. He was only 26 years old and a newlywed, he had only been sick for about 7 months. You can read about it on his family's blog. Our hearts are turned to heaven in prayer.

Also, if you want to donate to help the people in Myanmar, this is the most reputable and effective charity around that will get the most for your money and will get the relief to the victims quicker than others because they have resources in neighboring countries. Visit here to make a donation and find out more.

Today is Mother's Day, and so "Thank you Mom", and all other mommas out there who labor with love, and even those women who aren't moms yet and still have motherly love and influence, you do a world of good. Here's my sweet mom with all of her grandsons.



We had an excellent General Conference for our church that has truly enriched us and I am excited for the next one in October, read/watch/listen to it here. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has launched a new website that is more user friendly and it is so beautiful and wonderful to visit. See it Here.

Also, here is a very interesting perspective by Jay Leno...
I hope you will all read to the end. Jay Leno puts it into perspective and
makes us think about the pathetic negativity. That's right, Jay Leno!!


People CLAIM Jay Leno wrote this essay, in actuality he only said a small piece in a monolougue and it has been added to by others until it became this. Read about the metamorphasis HERE.... I will post the whole thing becuase I think it is an interesting read.

'The other day I was reading Newsweek magazine and came across some poll data I found rather hard to believe. It must be true, given the source, right?

The Newsweek poll alleges that 67 percent of Americans are unhappy with the direction the country is headed, and 69 percent of the country is unhappy with the performance of the President. In essence, 2/3's of the citizenry just ain't happy and want a change.

So being the knuckle dragger I am, I started thinking, ''What are we so unhappy about?'' Is it that we have electricity and running water 24 hours a day, 7 days a eek?

Is our unhappiness the result of having air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter?

Could it be that 95.4 percent of these unhappy folks have a job?

Maybe it is the ability to walk into a grocery store at any time, and see more food in moments than Darfur has seen in the last year?

Maybe it is the ability to drive from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean without having to present identification papers as we move through each state?

Or possibly the hundreds of clean and safe motels we would find along the way that can provide temporary shelter?

I guess having thousands of restaurants with varying cuisine from around the world is just not good enough.

Or could it be that when we wreck our car, emergency workers show up and provide services to help all, and even send a helicopter to take you to the hospital.

Perhaps you are one of the 70 percent of Americans who own a home. You may be upset with knowing that in the unfortunate case of a fire, a group of trained firefighters will appear in moments and use top notch equipment to extinguish the flames thus saving you, your family and your belongings.

Or if, while at home watching one of your many flat screen TVs, a burglar or prowler intrudes, an officer equipped with a gun and a bullet-proof vest will come to defend you and your family against attack or loss.

This all in the backdrop of a neighborhood free of bombs or militias raping and pillaging the residents. Neighborhoods where 90 percent of teenagers own cell phones and computers.

How about the complete religious, social and political freedoms we enjoy that are the envy of everyone in the world?

Maybe that is what has 67 percent of you folks unhappy.

Fact is, we are the largest group of ungrateful, spoiled brats the world has ever seen. No wonder the world loves the U.S. , yet has a great disdain for its citizens. They see us for what we are. The most blessed people in the world who do nothing but complain about what we don't have, and what we hate about the country instead of thanking the good Lord we live here.

I know, I know. What about the President who took us into war and has no plan to get us out? The President who has a measly 31 percent approval rating? Is this the same President who guided the nation in the dark days after 9/11? The President that cut taxes to bring an economy out of recession? Could this be the same guy who has been called every name in the book for succeeding in keeping all the spoiled ungrateful brats safe from terrorist attacks?

The Commander-In Chief of an all-volunteer army that is out there defending you and me? Did you hear how bad the President is on the news or talk show? Did this news affect you so much, make you so unhappy you couldn't take a look around for yourself and see all the good things and be glad?

Think about it...are you upset at the President because he actually caused you personal pain OR is it because the 'Media' told you he was failing to kiss your sorry ungrateful behind every day.

Make no mistake about it. The troops in Iraq and Afghanistan have volunteered to serve, and in many cases may have died for your freedom. There is currently no draft in this country. They didn't have to go.

They are able to refuse to go and end up with either a ''general'' discharge, an ''other than honorable'' discharge or, worst case scenario, a ''dishonorable'' discharge after a few days in the brig.

So why then the flat-out discontentment in the minds of 69 percent of Americans? Say what you want, but I blame it on the media. If it bleeds, it leads; and they specialize in bad news. Everybody will watch a car crash with blood and guts. How many will watch kids selling lemonade at the corner? The media knows this and media outlets are fo r-profit corporations. They offer what sells , and when criticized, try to defend their actions by 'justifying' them in one way or another. Just ask why
they tried to allow a murderer like O.J. Simpson to write a book about 'how he didn't kill his wife, but if he did he would have done it this way'...Insane!

Stop buying the negativism you are fed everyday by the media. Shut off the TV, burn Newsweek, and use the New York Times for the bottom of your bird cage. Then start being grateful for all we have as a country. There is exponentially more good than bad.

We are among the most blessed people on Earth, and should thank God several times a day, or at least be thankful and appreciative.

'With hurricanes, tornados, fires out of control, mud slides, flooding, severe thunderstorms tearing up the country from one end to another, and with the threat of bird flu and terrorist attacks, 'Are we sure this is a good time to take God out of the Pledge of Allegiance?'

Jay Leno (and others), 2008


My little brother, on his way to boot camp. We love you, Jae!!

10 Most Historically Innacurate Movies

I just had to include this Yahoo article, since I am a huge war/historical drama buff... so in part it's here to edumacate my readers, and in part it's here as a bookmark for myself :)


10,000 B.C.
Director Roland Emmerich is usually a stickler for realism (see: sending a computer virus via Macintosh to aliens in Independence Day). So we hate to inform him that woolly mammoths were not, in fact, used to build pyramids. Heck, woolly mammoths weren't even found in the desert. They wouldn't need to be woolly if that were the case. And there weren't any pyramids in Egypt until 2,500 B.C or so.


Gladiator
Emperor Commodus was not the sniveling sister-obsessed creep portrayed in the movie. A violent alcoholic, sure, but not so whiny. He ruled ably for over a decade rather than ineptly for a couple months. He also didn't kill his father, Marcus Aurelius, who actually died of chickenpox. And instead of being killed in the gladiatorial arena, he was murdered in his bathtub.



300
Though this paean to ancient moral codes and modern physical training is based on the real Battle of Thermopylae, the film takes many stylistic liberties. The most obvious one being Persian king Xerxes was not an 8-foot-tall Cirque du Soleil reject. The Spartan council was made up of men over the age of 60, with no one as young as Theron (played by 37-year-old Dominic West). And the warriors of Sparta went into battle wearing bronze armor, not just leather Speedos.


The Last Samurai
The Japanese in the late 19th century did hire foreign advisers to modernize their army, but they were mostly French, not American. Ken Watanabe's character was based on the real Saigo Takamori who committed ritual suicide, or "seppuku," in defeat rather than in a volley of Gatling gun fire. Also, it's doubtful that a 40-something alcoholic Civil War vet, even one with great hair, would master the chopsticks much less the samurai sword.


Apocalypto
This one movie has given entire Anthropology departments migraines. Sure the Maya did have the odd human sacrifice but not to Kulkulkan, the Sun God, and only high-ranking captives taken in battle were killed. The conquistadors arriving at the end of the film made for unlikely saviors: an estimated 90% of indigenous American population was killed by smallpox from the infected Spanish pigs.


Memoirs of a Geisha
The geisha coming-of-age, called "mizuage," was really more of a makeover, where she changed her hairstyle and clothes. It didn't involve her getting... intimate with a client. In the climactic scene where Sayuri wows Gion patrons with her dancing prowess, her routine - which involves some platform shoes, fake snow, and a strobe light - seems more like a Studio 54 drag show than anything in pre-war Kyoto.


Braveheart
Let's forget the fact that kilts weren't worn in Scotland until about 300 years after William Wallace's day and just do some simple math. According to the movie, Wallace's blue-eyed charm at the Battle of Falkirk was so overpowering, he seduced King Edward II's wife, Isabella of France, and the result of their affair was Edward III. But according to the history books, Isabella was three years old at the time of Falkirk, and Edward III was born seven years after Wallace died.


Elizabeth: The Golden Age
In 1585, when the movie takes place, Queen Elizabeth was 52 years old - Cate Blanchett was 36 when she shot the film - and was not being courted by suitors like Ivan the Terrible (who was dead by then). And though the movie has her rallying the troops at Tilbury astride a white steed in full armor with a sword, in fact she rode side saddle, carrying a baton. She was more of a regal majorette than Joan of Arc.


The Patriot
Revolutionary War figure Francis "The Swamp Fox" Marion was the basis for Mel Gibson's character, but he wasn't the forward-thinking family man they show in the flick. He was a slave owner who didn't get married (to his cousin) until after the war was over. Historians also say that he actively persecuted and murdered native Cherokees. Plus, the thrilling Battle of Guilford Court House where he vanquishes his British nemesis? In reality, the Americans lost that one.


2001: A Space Odyssey
According to this film, in year 2001 we would have had manned voyages to Jupiter, a battle of wits with a sentient computer, and a quantum leap in human evolution. Instead we got the Mir Space Station falling from the sky, Windows XP, and Freddy Got Fingered. Apparently the lesson here is that sometimes it's better when the movies get the facts all wrong.