Crazy over the Cow Cavalry December 31, 2011
It's true...I have been pecking away in one fashion or the other most of the day on my Cow Cavalry project. And oh, guess what?! I'm starting to regain focus (heh, sort of). :) I discovered another person who I might be able to interview and through whom I might be able to meet some Cow Cav reenactors--by accident (that's the second person on my 'to contact list' that I found by complete accident while following another trail.) The writing is going slowly, but I did some rearranging today ("I think this would go better here...hmm, that would actually connect better if I moved this there...Munnerlyn's 'bio' should go someplace else...") I've been having fun :) The ideas are popping: they fire off at me at various times. It is most irritating when I have a flash of brillance when I'm supposed to be engaged in prayer--this happens far too frequently in both my own morning Bible time and at family worship in the evening. The next 'bad-timing' item is when I have a stroke of inspiration and no paper to scribble on! I'm glad that my right hand is back in the writing business because that means that I can scribble notes a whole lot faster--even with this ol' brace on. Plus--it's still more readable than my left hand's writing.
To top all that off, I discovered yesterday that I have enough movement in my hand to be able to play my guitar again!! Yipee! So I played today too. Certain aspects--such as chords and strumming--are 'blah' sounding because I need wrist movement to execute them well. But if I'm picking single or even just two notes it sounds fine--even if it is a bit slower than usual.
Snip has to be fed sometime in the next hour--although he'd eat at anytime (little hog); but I like to keep him on a schedule (some schedule...he normally gets fed twixt 5:00 and 6:00--how's that for precise?) I've been told that I am not to ride until my wrist is all healed--just in case I fell off again--I might really damage it then. Oh, well--Snippy will just get lazier than ever :) (Not that he minds.) Speaking of eating, I'm about ready for seconds on my snack of mustard greens. (They are extremely mild mustards.) I love greens, except for turnips, and usually eat more than everyone else. Mustards, particularly strong ones, are my favorite, followed closely by collard greens. Real Southern food. If someone asked me what my 'comfort food' was I might just have to say "GREENS!"--and then be looked at weird ;)
Like I said...crazy--and it's not just over the Cow Cavalry. Happy New Year Ya'll!!
To top all that off, I discovered yesterday that I have enough movement in my hand to be able to play my guitar again!! Yipee! So I played today too. Certain aspects--such as chords and strumming--are 'blah' sounding because I need wrist movement to execute them well. But if I'm picking single or even just two notes it sounds fine--even if it is a bit slower than usual.
Snip has to be fed sometime in the next hour--although he'd eat at anytime (little hog); but I like to keep him on a schedule (some schedule...he normally gets fed twixt 5:00 and 6:00--how's that for precise?) I've been told that I am not to ride until my wrist is all healed--just in case I fell off again--I might really damage it then. Oh, well--Snippy will just get lazier than ever :) (Not that he minds.) Speaking of eating, I'm about ready for seconds on my snack of mustard greens. (They are extremely mild mustards.) I love greens, except for turnips, and usually eat more than everyone else. Mustards, particularly strong ones, are my favorite, followed closely by collard greens. Real Southern food. If someone asked me what my 'comfort food' was I might just have to say "GREENS!"--and then be looked at weird ;)
Like I said...crazy--and it's not just over the Cow Cavalry. Happy New Year Ya'll!!
Racheal
Cousins, Guns, and Fun December 30, 2011
Okay, so after a several day hiatus, I am back...and doing some of my typing right handed!
Cousin Beth and her family came down this week for a visit. Beth, Cody, and Gini (almost 2) stayed at Granddaddy's (he enjoyed watching his great-grandbaby toddling around all over the place). We all ate dinner together Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Those silly young folk left to head home at night. (They drove all night on the way down too.) Wednesday Cody helped Daddy fix the fence around the runway--yet again. This time Daddy opted for gaucho wire rather than that smooth electrical wire we've used in the past. (Two years ago, Daddy and I fixed it when my Aunt Terry and three of her kids were down for a couple of weeks. I made Megan help one afternoon and she got a horrid sunburn. I should have told her to put long pants on...)
Yesterday was passed by shooting, watching old TV shows with Granddad, following the 'kid' around, eating, talking and laughing. One of the most engaging parts of the day happened after the gunfire had died down. Remember that fence? Well, it is still standing, but we had four head in there on the runway--a dun cow and calf, a big black heifer, and Moon-bat. Moon-bat is a beautiful, yea gorgeous, animal--red, well formed, and a razor sharp set of horns. One thing--don't trust her as far as you can throw her. She's boss cow and has an attitude--an ugly one at that. So Moon-bat is the only one that there was any suspection of trouble with. Oh boy! Daddy and Cody hopped in the truck and tore off down to the end of the runway where they opened the wire gap (leaving it open). Then they roared up and Moon-bat side-stepped and turned and looked at them. (Bad cow.) I don't know for how long that dance of the pick-up and cow went on, but she would not step over the fencing (even though she could and certainly that's the way she got in there). Finally she started to trot (head held high proudly) and at that pace she finally got to the end of the strip--to the open gate--which took even more coaxing to get her through. Then she trotted almost half the way back toward the house before she stopped and looked back at the two guys in the truck. They eventually got the other three animals out, but we all had gone in before then--Moon-bat was the only one of true interest. Anyway, Beth was laughing and she said, "Cody is going to say, 'We need to get some cows!'" At dinner, he confessed that the cow-chasing had been the most fun part of the day. (Although getting to shoot Daddy's M-4 was pretty sweet t00.)
I got to shoot yesterday, one-handed and all! I started with the .22 S&W revolver (I love that gun) and then moved on to my .38. I had to use my 'bad' arm to steady it since getting both hands on the grip was uncomfortable. So now, three months later, I can tell you that I really like my birthday present. I didn't shoot the grandest with it, but for being one handed it wasn't too bad. At any rate, it was good enough to slow an attacker down. I sprayed dirt all over the place at least twice, but I know that once it was only partially my fault. I cannot stand Savannah's 9mm. If I'm standing next to her when she fires that thing, it hurts me (ears, teeth, bones). So, she was shooting and she pulled the trigger on her 9 right before I pulled my trigger and as that thing blasted beside me, I did my usual flinch--jerking my finger and gun and thereby spewing lead into the dirt in front of the target rather than into the target. The other time I lobstered. 100% my fault. I got to shoot the M-4 carbine too...I used the shooting sticks though because the right arm doesn't want to hold a weapon up at that angle. I had a pretty good group (nothing pro--but not bad). I didn't shoot at much as I would have liked because 'it' started to hurt a bit and I thought I'd better quit. I told my therapist this morning that I was shooting yesterday and she didn't really seem to mind :) Yup, you can't have an extended family get together at Granddaddy's without shooting...
Here are some pictures from this week...
Cousin Beth and her family came down this week for a visit. Beth, Cody, and Gini (almost 2) stayed at Granddaddy's (he enjoyed watching his great-grandbaby toddling around all over the place). We all ate dinner together Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Those silly young folk left to head home at night. (They drove all night on the way down too.) Wednesday Cody helped Daddy fix the fence around the runway--yet again. This time Daddy opted for gaucho wire rather than that smooth electrical wire we've used in the past. (Two years ago, Daddy and I fixed it when my Aunt Terry and three of her kids were down for a couple of weeks. I made Megan help one afternoon and she got a horrid sunburn. I should have told her to put long pants on...)
Yesterday was passed by shooting, watching old TV shows with Granddad, following the 'kid' around, eating, talking and laughing. One of the most engaging parts of the day happened after the gunfire had died down. Remember that fence? Well, it is still standing, but we had four head in there on the runway--a dun cow and calf, a big black heifer, and Moon-bat. Moon-bat is a beautiful, yea gorgeous, animal--red, well formed, and a razor sharp set of horns. One thing--don't trust her as far as you can throw her. She's boss cow and has an attitude--an ugly one at that. So Moon-bat is the only one that there was any suspection of trouble with. Oh boy! Daddy and Cody hopped in the truck and tore off down to the end of the runway where they opened the wire gap (leaving it open). Then they roared up and Moon-bat side-stepped and turned and looked at them. (Bad cow.) I don't know for how long that dance of the pick-up and cow went on, but she would not step over the fencing (even though she could and certainly that's the way she got in there). Finally she started to trot (head held high proudly) and at that pace she finally got to the end of the strip--to the open gate--which took even more coaxing to get her through. Then she trotted almost half the way back toward the house before she stopped and looked back at the two guys in the truck. They eventually got the other three animals out, but we all had gone in before then--Moon-bat was the only one of true interest. Anyway, Beth was laughing and she said, "Cody is going to say, 'We need to get some cows!'" At dinner, he confessed that the cow-chasing had been the most fun part of the day. (Although getting to shoot Daddy's M-4 was pretty sweet t00.)
I got to shoot yesterday, one-handed and all! I started with the .22 S&W revolver (I love that gun) and then moved on to my .38. I had to use my 'bad' arm to steady it since getting both hands on the grip was uncomfortable. So now, three months later, I can tell you that I really like my birthday present. I didn't shoot the grandest with it, but for being one handed it wasn't too bad. At any rate, it was good enough to slow an attacker down. I sprayed dirt all over the place at least twice, but I know that once it was only partially my fault. I cannot stand Savannah's 9mm. If I'm standing next to her when she fires that thing, it hurts me (ears, teeth, bones). So, she was shooting and she pulled the trigger on her 9 right before I pulled my trigger and as that thing blasted beside me, I did my usual flinch--jerking my finger and gun and thereby spewing lead into the dirt in front of the target rather than into the target. The other time I lobstered. 100% my fault. I got to shoot the M-4 carbine too...I used the shooting sticks though because the right arm doesn't want to hold a weapon up at that angle. I had a pretty good group (nothing pro--but not bad). I didn't shoot at much as I would have liked because 'it' started to hurt a bit and I thought I'd better quit. I told my therapist this morning that I was shooting yesterday and she didn't really seem to mind :) Yup, you can't have an extended family get together at Granddaddy's without shooting...
Here are some pictures from this week...
Racheal
Christmas Weekend December 26, 2011
We combined Christmas Eve and Christmas Day activities on Christmas Eve. Only we switched the order :) Grandpa and Grandma came in for lunch. We were supposed to have trukey, but it wasn't done yet so we had shrimp and scallops. I love scallops!
After lunch we retired to the living room where we proceeded to open presants (which we normally do Christmas Day). Mama and Katherine both got laptops (and very pleased were they) and Daddy also got Mom a massage table...she really liked that! Mama and I had gotten Grandpa some Cream Soda (made with Stevia) because he loves it. Last year he didn't drink what we gave him because it was made with sugar. (He isn't diabetic, but he watches his sugar intake. Also, he shouldn't eat Splenda because his chin breaks out.) Katherine had made both grandparents a stocking (as a family we don't do stockings, but we often give them each one), and Grandpa emptied the entire thing slowly, one item at a time...a tin of smoked oysters...bars of chocolate...cheese.... Grandma didn't spend near as much time delving into her stocking. I opened all my gifts slowly...cutting the tape with my handy-dandy pocket knife--using my right hand! (Maybe that's why it's not feeling as comfortable today.) I got several nice shirts, a 'cat hat' (knitted winter hat with cat ears--made by Savannah), a sling and oiler for my carbine :), a book on Katherine Parr--one of Henry VIII's wives, a wall hanger from some friends titled 'Quiet Strength'--it's a horse head and a girl (a sticky note on it declares "Horse Plague". I got a kick out of that!), an airplane coloring book from KT (I like vintage planes), and two pairs of shoes. I like watching people open what I get them almost, if not as much, as I enjoy opening things myself. I wrapped only a few things myself--on a good day my wrapping skills are pretty flat, but with only one hand, they are even worse! So I parceled out this to one sister and that to the other sister and Daddy wrapped what we got on Thursday.
That evening we had the Uncle L's down for supper. Grandma had made oyster soup (traditional) that only some of us ate. Some because we don't like oysters and some because we are on the GAPS diet and the soup wasn't GAPS approved. (Ahem...I fall into both categories.) Apparently Grandma had been complaining that the traditional oyster soup was not getting passed on (not true, we have always had oyster soup for Christmas Eve as long as I can remember) and Mom told her that of her three girls at least two of them will carry the tradition on. I will too, if I marry a fella who likes oysters. But there is no sense in carrying on a tradition like that if nobody likes the things.
Christmas Day, being the Lord's Day, was spent like a normal Sunday for the most part. (We drove by at least one church that apparently cancelled service because it was Christmas!) Everyone stayed after church for a 'pot-luck' except for two families who had previous arangements. We passed out a few small gifts--Mom nearly always gives the young folks calenders and Katherine had made some beautiful little wreaths out of the wisteria vine and grape vine prunings.
Here are a few pictures from the weekend...
After lunch we retired to the living room where we proceeded to open presants (which we normally do Christmas Day). Mama and Katherine both got laptops (and very pleased were they) and Daddy also got Mom a massage table...she really liked that! Mama and I had gotten Grandpa some Cream Soda (made with Stevia) because he loves it. Last year he didn't drink what we gave him because it was made with sugar. (He isn't diabetic, but he watches his sugar intake. Also, he shouldn't eat Splenda because his chin breaks out.) Katherine had made both grandparents a stocking (as a family we don't do stockings, but we often give them each one), and Grandpa emptied the entire thing slowly, one item at a time...a tin of smoked oysters...bars of chocolate...cheese.... Grandma didn't spend near as much time delving into her stocking. I opened all my gifts slowly...cutting the tape with my handy-dandy pocket knife--using my right hand! (Maybe that's why it's not feeling as comfortable today.) I got several nice shirts, a 'cat hat' (knitted winter hat with cat ears--made by Savannah), a sling and oiler for my carbine :), a book on Katherine Parr--one of Henry VIII's wives, a wall hanger from some friends titled 'Quiet Strength'--it's a horse head and a girl (a sticky note on it declares "Horse Plague". I got a kick out of that!), an airplane coloring book from KT (I like vintage planes), and two pairs of shoes. I like watching people open what I get them almost, if not as much, as I enjoy opening things myself. I wrapped only a few things myself--on a good day my wrapping skills are pretty flat, but with only one hand, they are even worse! So I parceled out this to one sister and that to the other sister and Daddy wrapped what we got on Thursday.
That evening we had the Uncle L's down for supper. Grandma had made oyster soup (traditional) that only some of us ate. Some because we don't like oysters and some because we are on the GAPS diet and the soup wasn't GAPS approved. (Ahem...I fall into both categories.) Apparently Grandma had been complaining that the traditional oyster soup was not getting passed on (not true, we have always had oyster soup for Christmas Eve as long as I can remember) and Mom told her that of her three girls at least two of them will carry the tradition on. I will too, if I marry a fella who likes oysters. But there is no sense in carrying on a tradition like that if nobody likes the things.
Christmas Day, being the Lord's Day, was spent like a normal Sunday for the most part. (We drove by at least one church that apparently cancelled service because it was Christmas!) Everyone stayed after church for a 'pot-luck' except for two families who had previous arangements. We passed out a few small gifts--Mom nearly always gives the young folks calenders and Katherine had made some beautiful little wreaths out of the wisteria vine and grape vine prunings.
Here are a few pictures from the weekend...
Racheal
Merry Christmas!!
Therapy December 23, 2011
Yesterday was my first therapy session. My therapist's name is Luarie and the head therapist is John. Everyone was nice so I quit feeling awkward after just a matter of seconds. This therapy room is set up different than those I've been in before, but I figure that the reason for that is because it's not in a nursing home! Laurie had me strech my hand, wiggle my fingers (she seemed pleased with the range of motion--I've been wiggling my fingers ever since it happened). This most interesting part was when she'd get ahold of a knuckle, place one of her other fingers over the back of my finger and have me try to push it straight. Let's suffice to say that I didn't do so great on that. She also twisted my arm...oh boy, did that hurt! It didn't hurt the wrist itself (which by the way is still to be immoble), but it hurt the muscles deep in my forearm. The other painful part was when she was rubbing my fingers (to help with the circulation and swelling) and she was working on my thumb. My brace has cut into me because I'm still swollen and I had it too tight and that red line is sore. John got some gauzy stuff to put on my thumb and I think it has helped some.
After therapy, Daddy and I went down to 'Gator Guns' which is owned by a half-cousin. He is real nice and gave me a hug when we left. He's around the same age as Daddy and shares the same first name (only he goes by Zeke). It's kind of funny, but his grandpa (Frank) was my great-granddad's (Zebulon) father-in-law. After G-Granddad married Frank's daughter, Frank named the two boys born after the aforesaid marriage, after his sons-in-law (another daughter married Zeb's brother Smiley [even another married a third brother, Hooker]) and two of their other brothers, Aussie (Austin) and Accum (Atticus). That's where Uncle S.A. (Smiley Atticus) and Uncle Z.A. (Zebulon Austin) got their names! Uncle S.A. I met once. He was a D-Day vet; he landed on Utah beach, June 6, 1944. I never met Z.A., but now I've met his son.
From their we dropped by Unle Rod's work and picked a bunch of cardboard boxes. Well, Daddy picked them up. I sat in the truck listening to Mark Davis "filling in for Rush". Once done there we hopped on over to the courthouse to renew the plates on the truck(hmm, which truck? Granddaddy's or Annabelle? Annabelle has an Indiana licence plate--bummer, that truck originally came from Texas--so I'm going to guess that it was Granddad's pick-up.)
Then...we went Christmas shopping! I think Daddy had a fairly enjoyable time. I suppose it helps that I'm not a huge shopper and so I don't dwadle too much. I love poking around in the old Opera house though--it's like a museum. (Ahem, that'a actually part of the title "Museum and Shops"--or something like that.) I was mesing around with this ostentatious yellow hat that looked like a thirties hat--then I couldn't get it hung back up! (If you'd seen it you'd understand.) And of course, I really only have one hand that is fully functional and Daddy had wandered into the next room (I suppose all those little rooms were the dressing rooms). I ended up sticking it on top of a Harley-Davidson pig (a pig cut-out with the H-D logo on the front) because it would stay there!
We stopped on the way home and I fed Snip and Daddy put mulch down for someone. We had GAPS approved pizza for dinner and I ate my entire half of the R/K pizza. Oh well. I shouldn't have, but I did and I really wasn't super stuffed. (Like I told Grandpa, "I haven't eaten anything since lunch and that was around 12:00!) Do I need to mention that I like food?
After therapy, Daddy and I went down to 'Gator Guns' which is owned by a half-cousin. He is real nice and gave me a hug when we left. He's around the same age as Daddy and shares the same first name (only he goes by Zeke). It's kind of funny, but his grandpa (Frank) was my great-granddad's (Zebulon) father-in-law. After G-Granddad married Frank's daughter, Frank named the two boys born after the aforesaid marriage, after his sons-in-law (another daughter married Zeb's brother Smiley [even another married a third brother, Hooker]) and two of their other brothers, Aussie (Austin) and Accum (Atticus). That's where Uncle S.A. (Smiley Atticus) and Uncle Z.A. (Zebulon Austin) got their names! Uncle S.A. I met once. He was a D-Day vet; he landed on Utah beach, June 6, 1944. I never met Z.A., but now I've met his son.
From their we dropped by Unle Rod's work and picked a bunch of cardboard boxes. Well, Daddy picked them up. I sat in the truck listening to Mark Davis "filling in for Rush". Once done there we hopped on over to the courthouse to renew the plates on the truck(hmm, which truck? Granddaddy's or Annabelle? Annabelle has an Indiana licence plate--bummer, that truck originally came from Texas--so I'm going to guess that it was Granddad's pick-up.)
Then...we went Christmas shopping! I think Daddy had a fairly enjoyable time. I suppose it helps that I'm not a huge shopper and so I don't dwadle too much. I love poking around in the old Opera house though--it's like a museum. (Ahem, that'a actually part of the title "Museum and Shops"--or something like that.) I was mesing around with this ostentatious yellow hat that looked like a thirties hat--then I couldn't get it hung back up! (If you'd seen it you'd understand.) And of course, I really only have one hand that is fully functional and Daddy had wandered into the next room (I suppose all those little rooms were the dressing rooms). I ended up sticking it on top of a Harley-Davidson pig (a pig cut-out with the H-D logo on the front) because it would stay there!
We stopped on the way home and I fed Snip and Daddy put mulch down for someone. We had GAPS approved pizza for dinner and I ate my entire half of the R/K pizza. Oh well. I shouldn't have, but I did and I really wasn't super stuffed. (Like I told Grandpa, "I haven't eaten anything since lunch and that was around 12:00!) Do I need to mention that I like food?
Racheal
A Slideshow...
Picture Slideshow...you can hit play and it will scroll through the half dozen or so pictures at it's own pace or you can view them individually, advancing at your leisure. Enjoy!
Testing... December 21, 2011
Might be too early...but I did some voice tests this afternoon for my Cow Cav project. (Hey, if it's motivational, why not?!) The narration is slowly building. I would rather have a male narrator--BUT my own voice would be the cheepest option *grin* (unless I could find a guy with the right voice who would do it for free) and besides, it's okay--I even sound like I'm from around here (something I don't tend to notice unless I'm listening to a recording of my voice). (I'd post a clip for critique but that costs money...ain't worth it at this point.) I tried reading my first 'outline-narration script' twice. The first time was slower (better in that respect), but more clunky. The second time it was too fast, though smoother. I noticed several places where the wording needs to be changed (of course, the whole thing is going to change and flex the further I get into it). At this point the logical flow seems pretty good (and that is very important). Since I have experience with public speaking/literature interpretation, the voice over stuff doesn't seem too daunting. (Acting in front of a camera on the other hand...scares me :) I think I'll stick to telling other people how to act.)
Racheal
Establishmentarianism December 19, 2011
I had a conversation with a dear brother in Christ at church yesterday, on a topic about which we are both passionate--but from somewhat differing perspectives. While there is much we agree on there is also much we disagree on concerning this issue. "This issue" just happens to be government-church relations. He is a proponent of Establismentarianism while I don't think that it is such a grand idea.
While I do not have an entirely clear grasp on what all Establishmentarianism teaches, this is what I have gathered from listening to this aforesaid brother. It teaches, most basically, that the church and state are not to be separated. But rather that only Christians (and that of only a certain stripe--maybe that isn't exactly the teaching, but it's a natural consequence) of good standing are allowed into government positions. The government's job, according to this theory is to keep the church in line theologically. (Least-ways, that is my understanding--I may misunderstand the teaching.)
First off, let me make it clear that I dissagree with those who declare "the Constitution mandates Separation of Church and State". What it says is "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise therof;"--First Amendment, first phrase. This does not mean that Christians cannot bring their religion with them into government. (Not only is that an unreasonable request, it is impossible. A person's worldview will define the way he approaches life--even if he attempts to gainsay it.) I agree that God is our head--I don't care if the area of life in question is that of Church life or political life--God and His Law are still the final say on whatever the issue is. Where I disagree with my brother is the application of the principles given us through Scripture. I do not deny, but throughly concur that those principles are our standard.
In essence, my brother claims that our government should look like that of the ancient Hebrews, with the twist that it be a representive republic. Okay, that sounds alright in theory, doesn't it? Hmmm. I was really struggling with this yesterday as I sat on the counter listening. I was feeling really mixed up--"I agree with this aspect, but not that. Why? Is it because I am too loyal to my country? Do I make an idol of my country? [I would die to defend her from the encroching enemy. I don't deny that there is much wrong and sinful about our nation, or that the Founders were sinful, fallen men, too. But the fact of the matter is, we are still the freest, most noble country out there--all by God's good grace and mercy.] Do I just have a problem admitting that something esle might be better? Hmm, that statement made the red flags go up. Am I interpreting scripture according to what I want it to say...or am I letting the truth present itself?" Today, I feel much more settled on the issue--and I didn't change my position.
My constant answer to this brother when he begins to ramble on this subject is, "We aren't a theocracy and we weren't founded as one." He agrees then continues to theorize as though we should be a theocracy (which is fundamentally what Establishentarianism is). This begs the question, "What is wrong with a theocracy?" Well...in a perfect world, absolutely nothing...zip, zero, nada. Nihil. Here's the kicker though--we do not live in a perfect world. A theocracy, yes, even a 'Christian' theocracy will lead to tyranny. Why? Um, human nature? Men are fallen creatures, so yes. Even the best of men sin and power is something few human's can resist the lure of.
That is why I think that our Founders were so wise to base their new government on the Presbyterian form of church government. It demands accountability. Also, as a side note, you see or hear occasionally people decrying the fact that the Founders did not write into the Constitution that Jesus Christ was Lord. However, the majority of our Founding Father's took for granted that Christ is King; even Thomas Jefferson, who was not a Christian, understood that morality is the only means of retaining freedom. They did not put it in the Constitution I believe, for two reasons: 1) they assumed that everyone already knew and accepted the fact that Christ is King (one of the rallying cries of the War for Independance was "No King but Jesus!"), and 2) they did not want to come across as setting up a State religion/church. They had just broke from a country that had a State Church.
That being said, the Founders were not shy in supporting Christianity (what is primarily meant by 'religion' in their documents). As an example, take this excerpt from President George Washington's 'Farewell Address':
"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish
them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked: Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice ? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect
that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.
It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule, indeed, extends with more or less force to every species of free government. Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric? [That is, the morality taught by the Christian religion.]"
Back to the topic on hand though, what is wrong with Establishmentarianism? I quote, "Heretics wouldn't be allowed to spread their teachings." (Okay, so that wasn't a direct quote.) My question is, "How are you going to keep them from teaching?" "Well, they would get punished." I wish now I had said it, but I didn't (I didn't want thing to get too heated, I've lost my temper at the poor fella before). This has been done before. He said, "Punish the heretics," and the first thing that popped into my head was the thousands of Protesant martyrs during the Reformation. He'd say, "Well that murder wouldn't happen" [keep in mind, he obviously assumes that Reformed people woulds be in power were this to come about], but why not? What happens if we did have an establishmentarian government and the 'wrong' people got in control? Then what? Is this worth the risk of loss of freedom, property, and life that almost surely follows on the heels of such a governmental system? In some ways it's as bad as the Marxism that we both hate. If you look back over history, you will find that neither system has worked the way they were supposed to. Tyranny has been the result.
Perhaps that could have been clearer and I don't know if my presentation was either logical or persausive, but I really must go now...
While I do not have an entirely clear grasp on what all Establishmentarianism teaches, this is what I have gathered from listening to this aforesaid brother. It teaches, most basically, that the church and state are not to be separated. But rather that only Christians (and that of only a certain stripe--maybe that isn't exactly the teaching, but it's a natural consequence) of good standing are allowed into government positions. The government's job, according to this theory is to keep the church in line theologically. (Least-ways, that is my understanding--I may misunderstand the teaching.)
First off, let me make it clear that I dissagree with those who declare "the Constitution mandates Separation of Church and State". What it says is "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise therof;"--First Amendment, first phrase. This does not mean that Christians cannot bring their religion with them into government. (Not only is that an unreasonable request, it is impossible. A person's worldview will define the way he approaches life--even if he attempts to gainsay it.) I agree that God is our head--I don't care if the area of life in question is that of Church life or political life--God and His Law are still the final say on whatever the issue is. Where I disagree with my brother is the application of the principles given us through Scripture. I do not deny, but throughly concur that those principles are our standard.
In essence, my brother claims that our government should look like that of the ancient Hebrews, with the twist that it be a representive republic. Okay, that sounds alright in theory, doesn't it? Hmmm. I was really struggling with this yesterday as I sat on the counter listening. I was feeling really mixed up--"I agree with this aspect, but not that. Why? Is it because I am too loyal to my country? Do I make an idol of my country? [I would die to defend her from the encroching enemy. I don't deny that there is much wrong and sinful about our nation, or that the Founders were sinful, fallen men, too. But the fact of the matter is, we are still the freest, most noble country out there--all by God's good grace and mercy.] Do I just have a problem admitting that something esle might be better? Hmm, that statement made the red flags go up. Am I interpreting scripture according to what I want it to say...or am I letting the truth present itself?" Today, I feel much more settled on the issue--and I didn't change my position.
My constant answer to this brother when he begins to ramble on this subject is, "We aren't a theocracy and we weren't founded as one." He agrees then continues to theorize as though we should be a theocracy (which is fundamentally what Establishentarianism is). This begs the question, "What is wrong with a theocracy?" Well...in a perfect world, absolutely nothing...zip, zero, nada. Nihil. Here's the kicker though--we do not live in a perfect world. A theocracy, yes, even a 'Christian' theocracy will lead to tyranny. Why? Um, human nature? Men are fallen creatures, so yes. Even the best of men sin and power is something few human's can resist the lure of.
That is why I think that our Founders were so wise to base their new government on the Presbyterian form of church government. It demands accountability. Also, as a side note, you see or hear occasionally people decrying the fact that the Founders did not write into the Constitution that Jesus Christ was Lord. However, the majority of our Founding Father's took for granted that Christ is King; even Thomas Jefferson, who was not a Christian, understood that morality is the only means of retaining freedom. They did not put it in the Constitution I believe, for two reasons: 1) they assumed that everyone already knew and accepted the fact that Christ is King (one of the rallying cries of the War for Independance was "No King but Jesus!"), and 2) they did not want to come across as setting up a State religion/church. They had just broke from a country that had a State Church.
That being said, the Founders were not shy in supporting Christianity (what is primarily meant by 'religion' in their documents). As an example, take this excerpt from President George Washington's 'Farewell Address':
"Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of patriotism, who should labor to subvert these great pillars of human happiness, these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. The mere politician, equally with the pious man, ought to respect and to cherish
them. A volume could not trace all their connections with private and public felicity. Let it simply be asked: Where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths which are the instruments of investigation in courts of justice ? And let us with caution indulge the supposition that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect
that national morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.
It is substantially true that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government. The rule, indeed, extends with more or less force to every species of free government. Who that is a sincere friend to it can look with indifference upon attempts to shake the foundation of the fabric? [That is, the morality taught by the Christian religion.]"
Back to the topic on hand though, what is wrong with Establishmentarianism? I quote, "Heretics wouldn't be allowed to spread their teachings." (Okay, so that wasn't a direct quote.) My question is, "How are you going to keep them from teaching?" "Well, they would get punished." I wish now I had said it, but I didn't (I didn't want thing to get too heated, I've lost my temper at the poor fella before). This has been done before. He said, "Punish the heretics," and the first thing that popped into my head was the thousands of Protesant martyrs during the Reformation. He'd say, "Well that murder wouldn't happen" [keep in mind, he obviously assumes that Reformed people woulds be in power were this to come about], but why not? What happens if we did have an establishmentarian government and the 'wrong' people got in control? Then what? Is this worth the risk of loss of freedom, property, and life that almost surely follows on the heels of such a governmental system? In some ways it's as bad as the Marxism that we both hate. If you look back over history, you will find that neither system has worked the way they were supposed to. Tyranny has been the result.
Perhaps that could have been clearer and I don't know if my presentation was either logical or persausive, but I really must go now...
Racheal
Update December 15, 2011
We went to the Doctor yesterday for another x-ray and the verdict is in--I don't need surgury (which was a vague possibility). Dr. K said that I will never have the complete ability to swing my hand back perpendicular to my arm. That doesn't worry me much--it won't hinder my guitar playing! He said that what happened when I landed (he assumed that I reached for the ground--which I don't think I did--but that really doesn't matter) was that the radial bone shifted 15* back...
The funny part of this whole deal is that yesterday afternoon and on into this morning, the ol' wrist is giving me more trouble than it has for days. It started after the x-ray tech helped me put my brace back on...Savannah is a much better helper in that capacity :)
After seeing the doctor Daddy and Mama took me out to eat at the Olympia Resturant again. MMM...that grouper was good! I didn't drink near as much coffee as last time because I got my mouth open fast enough to say I didn't want any more ;) Post-lunch we went to the mall. As most of you know, I do not like going to malls--once in a great while is alright--but even at that a couple of hours is the max amount of time I can be there and keep my sanity. I wanted to go to the mall to Christmas shop and as usual I was hungry by the time we left. On our way to the mall, I remarked that I'd never been to this one before. Mom said, "Yes, you have," and she was right. Once we got in I saw some fountains in the plaza area (or whatever the middle section of a mall is called) that I remembered seeing before--years ago, shopping with Grandma and Mama and sisters when I was a little girl (probably whiney because I was hungry, tired, and more than likely in need of a restroom). Oh no, I was no saint or joy to shop with; I doubt that I'm a joy to shop with now and I'm certainly no saint (in the 'goody-two-shoes' use of the word) :) Overall though, I enjoyed myself...even with my heel hurting me.
The funny part of this whole deal is that yesterday afternoon and on into this morning, the ol' wrist is giving me more trouble than it has for days. It started after the x-ray tech helped me put my brace back on...Savannah is a much better helper in that capacity :)
After seeing the doctor Daddy and Mama took me out to eat at the Olympia Resturant again. MMM...that grouper was good! I didn't drink near as much coffee as last time because I got my mouth open fast enough to say I didn't want any more ;) Post-lunch we went to the mall. As most of you know, I do not like going to malls--once in a great while is alright--but even at that a couple of hours is the max amount of time I can be there and keep my sanity. I wanted to go to the mall to Christmas shop and as usual I was hungry by the time we left. On our way to the mall, I remarked that I'd never been to this one before. Mom said, "Yes, you have," and she was right. Once we got in I saw some fountains in the plaza area (or whatever the middle section of a mall is called) that I remembered seeing before--years ago, shopping with Grandma and Mama and sisters when I was a little girl (probably whiney because I was hungry, tired, and more than likely in need of a restroom). Oh no, I was no saint or joy to shop with; I doubt that I'm a joy to shop with now and I'm certainly no saint (in the 'goody-two-shoes' use of the word) :) Overall though, I enjoyed myself...even with my heel hurting me.
Racheal
Research December 13, 2011
Research can be so much fun...while I wasn't doing any real serious research a minute ago, I was doing some preliminary searching in a couple of books that I have hauled back and forth for the last several years. They are: 1) Florida Cow Hunter: The Life and Times of Bone Mizell by Jim Bob Tinsley (I don't think I have ever read 100% of the way through this highly interesting and entertaining book, but I've read a vast majority of it. If you have any interest in reading real-life cowboy stories about a hilarious, often inebrated Florida cow hunter I highly recommend this book.) 2) Four Centuries of Florida Ranching by George H. Dacy (I have read bits and snippets out of this well-written book before. I found it several years ago on a bookshelf over at Granddaddy's and pulled it--at that point in time I was all fired up over a book I was--still am, sort of--working on.) 3) Peace River Pioneers by Louisa K. Frisbie (same here, I've read parts of it and looked at the pictures.)
I got started looking into these three books (my go-to books for anything relating to Florida in the 1800's) for more info on a certain Jacob Summerlin. This cattle baron was forced into the Cow Cavalry (this is a preview of something I want to work into my Cow Cavalry documentary). One source I read had given me the impression that he might have been a Unionist. (However that didn't quite match up--after all, he was also a Blockade Runner.) Upon further, non-in-depth reading this afternoon, I feel compelled to change my tune somewhat. From 1861-1862, Jake Summerlin sold his cattle to the Confederacy for $10 a head. He never actually saw the money (the "IOU's" didn't quite pan out--the CSA was really stapped for money.) With that being the case, it is somewhat understandable that he ended his contract with the Confederate government and started selling cattle to the Cubans for real-live gold. Anyhow, in the end, he still continued to serve his cause by providing beeves (and yes, that is a real word) to the Confederates--even though it was under the auspices of the 1st Battalion Florida Special Cavalry.
I got started looking into these three books (my go-to books for anything relating to Florida in the 1800's) for more info on a certain Jacob Summerlin. This cattle baron was forced into the Cow Cavalry (this is a preview of something I want to work into my Cow Cavalry documentary). One source I read had given me the impression that he might have been a Unionist. (However that didn't quite match up--after all, he was also a Blockade Runner.) Upon further, non-in-depth reading this afternoon, I feel compelled to change my tune somewhat. From 1861-1862, Jake Summerlin sold his cattle to the Confederacy for $10 a head. He never actually saw the money (the "IOU's" didn't quite pan out--the CSA was really stapped for money.) With that being the case, it is somewhat understandable that he ended his contract with the Confederate government and started selling cattle to the Cubans for real-live gold. Anyhow, in the end, he still continued to serve his cause by providing beeves (and yes, that is a real word) to the Confederates--even though it was under the auspices of the 1st Battalion Florida Special Cavalry.
Racheal
P.S. I don't know why they called him 'King of the Crackers' particularly over any other cattle baron from these parts; maybe it's because he donated land for the building of Bartow, owned his own 'port' at Punta Rassa, and granted the land for the Summerlin Institue (a school). Good guesses?
A New Page December 12, 2011
I added a new page today...the 'Articles' page. You can find it under the 'Links' tab. There is only one essay there at presant: The Star Wars Menace'. I wrote this for school and it is basically a critique of George Lucas' philosophy as displayed throught the Star Wars films (as a Word document it s 12 pages long--12 font). I have no idea how many articles I may end up posting, nor how frequently I'll do so...
Racheal
The Army__Navy Game December 10, 2011
Yup...the Army got whipped--again. According to the commentators the Army has had a 9-game losing streak. Hump...I got to watch them get beat by the Air Force a few months ago and now they lose to the Squids!?
I was sitting in here at my computer working on a project when Katherine walks in and hands me my phone: "It's Grandpa." "Hello." "The Army-Navy Game is on. You've missed half of it." "Okay, I'll be right out." I think he was suprised that I actually did come out immediately. Anyway, I took care of his eye-drops and kept him up on the score (both he and Grandma were nodding off.) It was a pretty close game though. The ending score was 27-21 in favor of the Navy (of course). They only managed that because they kicked it through the field goal--twice. That was pretty impressive.
My arm has really swollen up today...I keep loosening up my brace...then tightening it up again in a few minutes. The worst part is that it cuts into my thumb and I can't loosen the thumb hole...
It is also Grandpa's 89th Birthday today. Happy Birthday Grandpa!!
I was sitting in here at my computer working on a project when Katherine walks in and hands me my phone: "It's Grandpa." "Hello." "The Army-Navy Game is on. You've missed half of it." "Okay, I'll be right out." I think he was suprised that I actually did come out immediately. Anyway, I took care of his eye-drops and kept him up on the score (both he and Grandma were nodding off.) It was a pretty close game though. The ending score was 27-21 in favor of the Navy (of course). They only managed that because they kicked it through the field goal--twice. That was pretty impressive.
My arm has really swollen up today...I keep loosening up my brace...then tightening it up again in a few minutes. The worst part is that it cuts into my thumb and I can't loosen the thumb hole...
It is also Grandpa's 89th Birthday today. Happy Birthday Grandpa!!
Racheal
Visiting December 9, 2011
After coming home from Port C. and writing my post yesterday, we went down to Uncle L. and Aunt C.'s for dinner (4:00 is kind of early for dinner). The food was all good...particularlly Mom's baked beans. My cousin Danny (who we haven't seen in two years) was there. He ate with his left hand just for fun because I had to. (I'm already getting better with my left-handed eating.)
After dinner he showed Mom, Katherine, and I some awesome cloud pictures he'd taken...and a few of some of the plane models he builds. Then we all sat around (Savannah and Ashley joined in) and bounced a ball for a couple of hours...Grandpa actually came over and joined in too! (Such activity is good for him...)
After dinner he showed Mom, Katherine, and I some awesome cloud pictures he'd taken...and a few of some of the plane models he builds. Then we all sat around (Savannah and Ashley joined in) and bounced a ball for a couple of hours...Grandpa actually came over and joined in too! (Such activity is good for him...)
Mid-morning this morning, Danny came down (in fact, he's still here and discussing firearms with Daddy). He wasn't going to stay for lunch but it was done and we didn't have to twist his arm too hard to get him to stay :)
Speaking of arms...what'd ya think of that brace? Rather than putting me in a regular cast, they stuck me in this thing--I can take it off if I want to; I don't at this point. Its construction is pretty neat though. It is cinched up with plastic wires by turning the knob on it (the bump on the left side). If you pull the knob up the wires can be loosened up. (This picture was taken right after dinner...I lost the spark an hour or so later--I wasn't feeling the greatest. And that's an optical illusion...I did not have my right hand clenched...I bearly got my fingers tightened down that much!)
Speaking of arms...what'd ya think of that brace? Rather than putting me in a regular cast, they stuck me in this thing--I can take it off if I want to; I don't at this point. Its construction is pretty neat though. It is cinched up with plastic wires by turning the knob on it (the bump on the left side). If you pull the knob up the wires can be loosened up. (This picture was taken right after dinner...I lost the spark an hour or so later--I wasn't feeling the greatest. And that's an optical illusion...I did not have my right hand clenched...I bearly got my fingers tightened down that much!)
Racheal
"It Comes With the Territory" December 8, 2011
"The first of many..." At least that's the report I heard of what the All-Around Rodeo Champion and pro-horse trainer said upon hearing the news. Matt has taught me quite a bit the few times he came and helped with Snip and I greatly respect this kind hearted man's opinion...I just hope he's not correct this time.
After checking the behavior of Ginger, (a mare over at the same place I keep Snip), before putting Savannah on her, I saddled up Snippy and took off. Well and good. He continued the previous days bothersome pulling to the left when we were headed east (old habits from last year die hard). I spent part of my ride trying to get him to go straight--particularly when headed east. I was going to call it a day after one more round when it happened...
We were trotting along (headed east), about 6-10 feet from the weedy fence line when a rabbit (at least I assume it was a rabbit--that's what it sounded like) dashed through the dog fennel and spooked my horse. Normally I get him under control--yesterday I had no choice. I screamed (somewhat unusual for me) as I realized I was a goner. (I don't think I yelled "NO!"--but it was equivalent; as Daddy put it, "This is really going to suck.") I hit the ground somewhat on my right side, grass-burning my shoulder pretty bad and my face under my eye (thankfully, it isn't as bad as the shoulder).
I laid there for a minute--my head hurt from the impact. Then I told myself, "You need to get up and get back on." So, I got up and immediately noticed that my right wrist was stangely stiff. I got ahold of Snip's reigns (he's such a good horse really; he stopped as soon as I fell off) and prepared to mount. I never made it up...that wrist I was talking about baulked at the notion. I ended up looping the reigns over my left arm and walking all the way back to the house, while holding my wrist as straight as I could. About half-way there (or maybe sooner) I said, "I think I broke my wrist..."
As soon as I got to the house, I hollered at Savannah (who was still riding Ginger). I had to yell at her twice before she got the message. Once she dismounted and tied up the horses (I was unable to tie Snip up...releasing the grip on my wrist increased the pain--although at this point it wasn't too awful), she had me sit in the car while she called Mom, then Daddy. Before they got there I was crying with pain. Mom showed up first with Katherine (Daddy didn't push his 'luck' on the way over--he was right in front of a policeman). The first thing Mama said was "Did you put ice on it?!" No...I sure didn't think about it--I was concentrating on holding myself together (I got somewhat shocky) and poor Savannah didn't either. Immediately Savannah ran into the house and filled a bag full of ice...that bag of ice lasted me for the next several hours at the ER. As soon as Daddy showed up I got out of the car and transferred myself to the pickup and we headed to the hospital. Thst was about 5:30. It was around 8:30 -9:00 when we left--me with splint on wrist. I was right...I did break it.
After checking the behavior of Ginger, (a mare over at the same place I keep Snip), before putting Savannah on her, I saddled up Snippy and took off. Well and good. He continued the previous days bothersome pulling to the left when we were headed east (old habits from last year die hard). I spent part of my ride trying to get him to go straight--particularly when headed east. I was going to call it a day after one more round when it happened...
We were trotting along (headed east), about 6-10 feet from the weedy fence line when a rabbit (at least I assume it was a rabbit--that's what it sounded like) dashed through the dog fennel and spooked my horse. Normally I get him under control--yesterday I had no choice. I screamed (somewhat unusual for me) as I realized I was a goner. (I don't think I yelled "NO!"--but it was equivalent; as Daddy put it, "This is really going to suck.") I hit the ground somewhat on my right side, grass-burning my shoulder pretty bad and my face under my eye (thankfully, it isn't as bad as the shoulder).
I laid there for a minute--my head hurt from the impact. Then I told myself, "You need to get up and get back on." So, I got up and immediately noticed that my right wrist was stangely stiff. I got ahold of Snip's reigns (he's such a good horse really; he stopped as soon as I fell off) and prepared to mount. I never made it up...that wrist I was talking about baulked at the notion. I ended up looping the reigns over my left arm and walking all the way back to the house, while holding my wrist as straight as I could. About half-way there (or maybe sooner) I said, "I think I broke my wrist..."
As soon as I got to the house, I hollered at Savannah (who was still riding Ginger). I had to yell at her twice before she got the message. Once she dismounted and tied up the horses (I was unable to tie Snip up...releasing the grip on my wrist increased the pain--although at this point it wasn't too awful), she had me sit in the car while she called Mom, then Daddy. Before they got there I was crying with pain. Mom showed up first with Katherine (Daddy didn't push his 'luck' on the way over--he was right in front of a policeman). The first thing Mama said was "Did you put ice on it?!" No...I sure didn't think about it--I was concentrating on holding myself together (I got somewhat shocky) and poor Savannah didn't either. Immediately Savannah ran into the house and filled a bag full of ice...that bag of ice lasted me for the next several hours at the ER. As soon as Daddy showed up I got out of the car and transferred myself to the pickup and we headed to the hospital. Thst was about 5:30. It was around 8:30 -9:00 when we left--me with splint on wrist. I was right...I did break it.
You may not be able to see the cracks very well, but there is a vertical crack in the radial (the bigger bone), as well as a horizontral fracture along the cap. There is also a minor crack on the right corner of the ulna.
There are more details that I find necessary to skip beacuse in a matter of a few minutes we have to headed down to Aunt C. and Uncle L.'s for a belated Thanksgiving day dinner...Suffice to say, I'm doing fine despite the ache in my arm...
There are more details that I find necessary to skip beacuse in a matter of a few minutes we have to headed down to Aunt C. and Uncle L.'s for a belated Thanksgiving day dinner...Suffice to say, I'm doing fine despite the ache in my arm...
Racheal
Pearl Harbor Day December 7, 2011
Probably President Franklin D. Roosevelt's most enduring words are contained in his declaration of war on Japan after the Japanese Emperial Navy droped several thousand pounds of explosives on the shipage at Pearl Harbor and Hickam, Kaneohe and Ewa airfields.
My knowlegde of this time comes in many respects from repeated viewings of the movie (I suppose it could be called a docudrama), Tora! Tora! Tora! (or Tiger! Tiger! Tiger! the Jap signal for the attack to begin.)
My knowlegde of this time comes in many respects from repeated viewings of the movie (I suppose it could be called a docudrama), Tora! Tora! Tora! (or Tiger! Tiger! Tiger! the Jap signal for the attack to begin.)
This large scale suprise attack woke the sleeping giant and preciptated us into World War Two. The following is a brief summary of action...I got this off of the Freeper Page.
On Sunday, December 7th, 1941 the Japanese launched a surprise attack against the U.S. Forces stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. By planning his attack on a Sunday, the Japanese commander Admiral Nagumo, hoped to catch the entire fleet in port. As luck [or rather, providence] would have it, the Aircraft Carriers and one of the Battleships were not in port. (The USS Enterprise was returning from Wake Island, where it had just delivered some
aircraft. The USS Lexington was ferrying aircraft to Midway, and the USS Saratoga and USS Colorado were undergoing repairs in the United States.) In spite of the latest intelligence reports about the missing aircraft carriers his most important targets), Admiral Nagumo decided to continue the attack with his force of six carriers and 423 aircraft. At a range of 230 miles north of Oahu, he launched the first wave of a two-wave attack. Beginning at 0600 hours his first wave consisted of 183 fighters and torpedo bombers which struck at the fleet in Pearl Harbor and the airfields in Hickam, Kaneohe and Ewa. The second strike, launched at 0715 hours, consisted of 167 aircraft, which again struck at the same targets. At 0753 hours the first wave consisting of 40 Nakajima B5N2
"Kate" torpedo bombers, 51 Aichi D3A1 "Val" dive bombers, 50 high altitude bombers and 43 Zeros struck airfields and Pearl Harbor. Within the next hour, the second wave arrived and continued the attack.
The "day that shall live in infamy" in our household has always been one that we have specially noted. Perhaps it matters too me in a way that for other young people it might not--simply because I am a military brat and any and all attacks on my country, past, present, and future, are events that have called men like my father into the line of duty. While he never served over seas, my Grandpa is a WWII veteran, and lost several of his friends in the war. Both of his brothers were vets as well. Uncle Byron was in the Army (I have no idea if he saw overseas service), and Uncle Wilber (who I never met) was in the Navy. My heritage is steeped in military service.
On Sunday, December 7th, 1941 the Japanese launched a surprise attack against the U.S. Forces stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. By planning his attack on a Sunday, the Japanese commander Admiral Nagumo, hoped to catch the entire fleet in port. As luck [or rather, providence] would have it, the Aircraft Carriers and one of the Battleships were not in port. (The USS Enterprise was returning from Wake Island, where it had just delivered some
aircraft. The USS Lexington was ferrying aircraft to Midway, and the USS Saratoga and USS Colorado were undergoing repairs in the United States.) In spite of the latest intelligence reports about the missing aircraft carriers his most important targets), Admiral Nagumo decided to continue the attack with his force of six carriers and 423 aircraft. At a range of 230 miles north of Oahu, he launched the first wave of a two-wave attack. Beginning at 0600 hours his first wave consisted of 183 fighters and torpedo bombers which struck at the fleet in Pearl Harbor and the airfields in Hickam, Kaneohe and Ewa. The second strike, launched at 0715 hours, consisted of 167 aircraft, which again struck at the same targets. At 0753 hours the first wave consisting of 40 Nakajima B5N2
"Kate" torpedo bombers, 51 Aichi D3A1 "Val" dive bombers, 50 high altitude bombers and 43 Zeros struck airfields and Pearl Harbor. Within the next hour, the second wave arrived and continued the attack.
The "day that shall live in infamy" in our household has always been one that we have specially noted. Perhaps it matters too me in a way that for other young people it might not--simply because I am a military brat and any and all attacks on my country, past, present, and future, are events that have called men like my father into the line of duty. While he never served over seas, my Grandpa is a WWII veteran, and lost several of his friends in the war. Both of his brothers were vets as well. Uncle Byron was in the Army (I have no idea if he saw overseas service), and Uncle Wilber (who I never met) was in the Navy. My heritage is steeped in military service.
I was raised to honor and respect our veterans and with a love of country. That is why certain politicans (and presidents) make me so furious. Men, like those stationed at Pearl Harbor that day, have fought and died for this country from it's founding to the present day. So, when Obama has the gumption to claim that the prinicples of our founding 'don't work', he plain and simple spits upon the
graves of our fallen vets and in the faces of those still alive. If it doesn't work (freedom and liberty that is--see Norman Rockwells 'Four Freedoms' if you need a hint as to the meaning of the American Dream) then why in the world, 70 years after the attack on Pearl, are people still emulating America? Why do people want to be like us, to come to our country? If we are the sorriest bunch of people that ever walked the face of God's green earth, WHY would ANYONE want to flee their own country and come to ours?
Let Obama chant that limited government stinks...that the three-way seperation of government is weak...that he ought to be dictator. On this day, remember what the men of our grandparents generation were fighting...boys became men in the war against tyranny of the same Marxist sort that we, my friends, are facing today. (Now, Japan might not have actaully been Marxist--I'm more familar with the European Theatre--but they did have a world dominiation mindset that paralleled that of Hitler. However, from the little I do know about Japan at that time I would err on the side of saying that they were Statist of a certain variety, even if not Marxist--but how many versions of Statism can one have without overlapping principles??)
Pray regularly for our Troops; even if you don't know any of them by name, you can still lift them up before the Great Protector. One of my prayers is that the Christian witness in the military would spread like wild-fire. I would love nothing more than for 'my military' to also be 'God's military' in the sense that the member of it are Christians. This may sound redundit, but "May God Bless America"...we need His mercy. Amen.
Remember Pearl Harbor...
graves of our fallen vets and in the faces of those still alive. If it doesn't work (freedom and liberty that is--see Norman Rockwells 'Four Freedoms' if you need a hint as to the meaning of the American Dream) then why in the world, 70 years after the attack on Pearl, are people still emulating America? Why do people want to be like us, to come to our country? If we are the sorriest bunch of people that ever walked the face of God's green earth, WHY would ANYONE want to flee their own country and come to ours?
Let Obama chant that limited government stinks...that the three-way seperation of government is weak...that he ought to be dictator. On this day, remember what the men of our grandparents generation were fighting...boys became men in the war against tyranny of the same Marxist sort that we, my friends, are facing today. (Now, Japan might not have actaully been Marxist--I'm more familar with the European Theatre--but they did have a world dominiation mindset that paralleled that of Hitler. However, from the little I do know about Japan at that time I would err on the side of saying that they were Statist of a certain variety, even if not Marxist--but how many versions of Statism can one have without overlapping principles??)
Pray regularly for our Troops; even if you don't know any of them by name, you can still lift them up before the Great Protector. One of my prayers is that the Christian witness in the military would spread like wild-fire. I would love nothing more than for 'my military' to also be 'God's military' in the sense that the member of it are Christians. This may sound redundit, but "May God Bless America"...we need His mercy. Amen.
Remember Pearl Harbor...
Racheal
Laundry, Dishes, and Stuff December 6, 2011
It doesn't seem like I've done that much today, although I don't really know how much time I wasted either. The first thing I did was research how to teach a horse how to slide stop...it sounds like I need to be working at it at a slower speed to start with.
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Several hours later: Hey! I think somebody published this and I wasn't ready for it...Oh well...I'll pick up where I left off.
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I have worked Snip by now, of course and attempted to implement some changes into the workout. He was a booger today no matter what. Sometimes, critters get it into their minds that they want to be boss and that leaves us people in a situation where we have to remember that they are non-rational creatures. (I won't use the word 'unintelligent' for an animal becuase, as anyone will say who has had any interaction with animals, they must have some sort of intelligence...just not rational intelligence.) Anyway, lets just say that I had a few times during the session that I had to get ahold of my own quick irritablity. (I lost my temper big-time with him once last year--I don't ever recall being that kind of mad like that before; at least not for the length of time that I stayed mad. Usually I just flare up and then it's over; but I went past that stage into a cold rage. I kind of scared myself...)
By the time I was ready to go home, I was filthy. I cleaned out Snip's hooves (still not his favorite part of the post-ride care) and as usual, he leaned his weight on me while I was cleaning out his front hooves...stinker! Due to the fact that he was wet and dirty the whole side of my shirt turned brown (hmm, natural tie-dye anyone?) Then he tried the side-stepping techinque he started yesterday on the back hooves. At least I didn't have to put my back to his haunches and punch him with my elbow today (actually that was kind of fun; not really something you'd want to do every day though.)
Wow. I sound like I'm complaining. I'm not really, just describing what the latter part of my day was like. Most of the time though, he's a good horse. I got skeeter bit too :)
Well, I am ready to publish this now...so here goes!
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Several hours later: Hey! I think somebody published this and I wasn't ready for it...Oh well...I'll pick up where I left off.
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I have worked Snip by now, of course and attempted to implement some changes into the workout. He was a booger today no matter what. Sometimes, critters get it into their minds that they want to be boss and that leaves us people in a situation where we have to remember that they are non-rational creatures. (I won't use the word 'unintelligent' for an animal becuase, as anyone will say who has had any interaction with animals, they must have some sort of intelligence...just not rational intelligence.) Anyway, lets just say that I had a few times during the session that I had to get ahold of my own quick irritablity. (I lost my temper big-time with him once last year--I don't ever recall being that kind of mad like that before; at least not for the length of time that I stayed mad. Usually I just flare up and then it's over; but I went past that stage into a cold rage. I kind of scared myself...)
By the time I was ready to go home, I was filthy. I cleaned out Snip's hooves (still not his favorite part of the post-ride care) and as usual, he leaned his weight on me while I was cleaning out his front hooves...stinker! Due to the fact that he was wet and dirty the whole side of my shirt turned brown (hmm, natural tie-dye anyone?) Then he tried the side-stepping techinque he started yesterday on the back hooves. At least I didn't have to put my back to his haunches and punch him with my elbow today (actually that was kind of fun; not really something you'd want to do every day though.)
Wow. I sound like I'm complaining. I'm not really, just describing what the latter part of my day was like. Most of the time though, he's a good horse. I got skeeter bit too :)
Well, I am ready to publish this now...so here goes!
Racheal
Prepping for Christmas December 5, 2011
Yes, I set up the tree today (we have a plastic tree that we've used for several years; we did have a live tree a couple of years ago); put on the lights, and assisted with the ornaments. We girls all have certain special ornaments that only we are allowed to put on...the first one that pops to mind are the miniture brass lamps Daddy got us in Turkey (each one is different). They all have corrosion on them because they got wet once...
Katherine is still poking around out there setting stuff up...I just got home from working Snip and am working on getting Grandpa's eyes done. So I still have my dirty clothes on and my boots. I finally got smart a couple of days ago and figured out that if I tip my spurs up, I can walk through the house without crashing the rowls into the wooden floor (which understandably Mom doesn't appreciate). It is so much easier than walking on my toes...
Snip was a bit ornery today. It seemed to be his 'I want to eat' behavoir. He shouldn't have been acting like that though, because he'd been fed real good today (and he was hogging down grass when I got there). But I didn't give up and I didn't get frustrated (hey, I'm improving--er, I'd better not say that, I might just lose my temper tomorrow ;) ), and we quit after he behaved himself.
It is great to be home. I am referring to church yesterday. I love my church people up North, but this is home down here. I am glad to find that at 7, Sammy is still a sweet-heart (and that I can still pick him up!) Stonewall also let me man-handle him (not usual for him), and I got to hold Elijah...he's such a happy baby and adorable!
My creativity in writing is waning...I'm just hungry...and Daddy is discussing a certain topic of interest to both of us (I'll leave ya to guess what it is... *wink*....here's a hint: it makes noise.)
Katherine is still poking around out there setting stuff up...I just got home from working Snip and am working on getting Grandpa's eyes done. So I still have my dirty clothes on and my boots. I finally got smart a couple of days ago and figured out that if I tip my spurs up, I can walk through the house without crashing the rowls into the wooden floor (which understandably Mom doesn't appreciate). It is so much easier than walking on my toes...
Snip was a bit ornery today. It seemed to be his 'I want to eat' behavoir. He shouldn't have been acting like that though, because he'd been fed real good today (and he was hogging down grass when I got there). But I didn't give up and I didn't get frustrated (hey, I'm improving--er, I'd better not say that, I might just lose my temper tomorrow ;) ), and we quit after he behaved himself.
It is great to be home. I am referring to church yesterday. I love my church people up North, but this is home down here. I am glad to find that at 7, Sammy is still a sweet-heart (and that I can still pick him up!) Stonewall also let me man-handle him (not usual for him), and I got to hold Elijah...he's such a happy baby and adorable!
My creativity in writing is waning...I'm just hungry...and Daddy is discussing a certain topic of interest to both of us (I'll leave ya to guess what it is... *wink*....here's a hint: it makes noise.)
Racheal
Christmas Gig December 3, 2011
Z's III played the accompaniment music for the 'Seminoles RV Club' annual Christmas dinner. Savannah played the violin (of course), Racheal (I wonder who she is...) played the guitar (another 'of course') and sang as well. Katherine wowed people with her skills on the Bodhran (Ireland's national instrument). Our cousin Ashley added her voice to the throng. She managed to keep the ball rolling when I lost my place in the words...
I rode down with my grandparents; Uncle David came too (even though he had no reservation). Upon arrival I decided where we should set up and I tuned my guitar. It can be hard to tune your instrument when there is a buzz of voices and laughter in the background...After that I poked myself in between two of my favorite fellows--Charlie (he is a WWII vet; flew P-51 Mustangs) and Ellis (a Pennsylvania dairy farmer). I stood there and talked with them until the food was about ready to come out and then removed myself from the way. I had one man offer me his extra salad (I don't know how he ended up with two), but I'd already eaten so I said, 'No, thank-you.' Then another fella I didn't recognize came round and asked if he could get me anything; he sat across from Grandma and apparently she told him that we were on a special diet (he mentioned that), but he still wanted to make sure that I was fine. I thought that was nice and really appricated the thoughtfulness. Many of the Seminole members that I met, oh, five years or so ago when we first started doing stuff for them, are no longer in the group--some of them have died and some have just dropped out because they no longer can RV. The nature of the group has stayed pretty much the same--nice.
How about a few pictures of us in our 'fancy duds'. We always wear black, white, and red when performing...
I rode down with my grandparents; Uncle David came too (even though he had no reservation). Upon arrival I decided where we should set up and I tuned my guitar. It can be hard to tune your instrument when there is a buzz of voices and laughter in the background...After that I poked myself in between two of my favorite fellows--Charlie (he is a WWII vet; flew P-51 Mustangs) and Ellis (a Pennsylvania dairy farmer). I stood there and talked with them until the food was about ready to come out and then removed myself from the way. I had one man offer me his extra salad (I don't know how he ended up with two), but I'd already eaten so I said, 'No, thank-you.' Then another fella I didn't recognize came round and asked if he could get me anything; he sat across from Grandma and apparently she told him that we were on a special diet (he mentioned that), but he still wanted to make sure that I was fine. I thought that was nice and really appricated the thoughtfulness. Many of the Seminole members that I met, oh, five years or so ago when we first started doing stuff for them, are no longer in the group--some of them have died and some have just dropped out because they no longer can RV. The nature of the group has stayed pretty much the same--nice.
How about a few pictures of us in our 'fancy duds'. We always wear black, white, and red when performing...
Racheal
I'm Back!! December 2, 2011
I suppose some of you have begun wondering whether I fell off the edge of the world or something...well I didn't. We just only got our internet up last night and the computers up and running as of under 30 minutes ago.
Our trip was rather an uneventful one--excluding the final hard day (last Sunday). On that day Daddy discovered that the truck had a oil leak in the rear axle and was spewing oil. We got home on it with just two stops to fill it up (if I remember correctly). He also changed one of the tires on the trailer--it didn't pop but it was thinking about. After we got home, he discovered that one of the tires on the other trailer shed part of its tread (it looks pretty weird). But back to the tire-change...we were sitting on the side of the Interstate and the traffic was moving very, very slow. It wasn't too long after that that we got off and headed across country. That was the most eventful stuff, but thankfully none of it was really dangerous or life-threatening.
Since our arrival home we've been cleaning and arranging and the house still isn't "fixed". It look and feels a whole lot better though. The girls and I have been practicing every afternoon for tomorrow's gig. We are playing the music for a sing-along for Grandma and Grandpa's RV club Christmas Rally. For only playing everything together for 4 days we sound alright.
Wednesday I started my Snip riding sessions again. I was fixing to leave when some visitors arrived--our dear pastor and church Guv'na showed up. They were attending a graduation ceremony at the prison where another of our church men is head Chaplain! It was quite funny. I stood at the fence and talked cows with Dr. T for a few minutes before donning my boots and hat and heading west to where Mr. Snip resides. He's behaving himself pretty well...in another day or so I may actually be able to regain my former confidence...Day three was better than day two...which was better than day one :) The biggest problem continues to be neck-reining and the stopping. (Heh heh...I'd like to see myself bouncing around like a ball when I 'm trying to stop him fast!) Wednesday afternoon Snip was trotting along nicely and my right stirrup fell off! I about went over his head but managed to keep my seat. Then today, I rode under a tree-branch (and yes, I was there on purpose; I knew the branches were high enough that he couldn't scrape me off) and a dead twig raked across my hat (I have a hard straw hat) and poor ol' Snipper spooked! I got him under control in about two steps. It was harder when the neighbor's dogs charged the fence barking...
Our trip was rather an uneventful one--excluding the final hard day (last Sunday). On that day Daddy discovered that the truck had a oil leak in the rear axle and was spewing oil. We got home on it with just two stops to fill it up (if I remember correctly). He also changed one of the tires on the trailer--it didn't pop but it was thinking about. After we got home, he discovered that one of the tires on the other trailer shed part of its tread (it looks pretty weird). But back to the tire-change...we were sitting on the side of the Interstate and the traffic was moving very, very slow. It wasn't too long after that that we got off and headed across country. That was the most eventful stuff, but thankfully none of it was really dangerous or life-threatening.
Since our arrival home we've been cleaning and arranging and the house still isn't "fixed". It look and feels a whole lot better though. The girls and I have been practicing every afternoon for tomorrow's gig. We are playing the music for a sing-along for Grandma and Grandpa's RV club Christmas Rally. For only playing everything together for 4 days we sound alright.
Wednesday I started my Snip riding sessions again. I was fixing to leave when some visitors arrived--our dear pastor and church Guv'na showed up. They were attending a graduation ceremony at the prison where another of our church men is head Chaplain! It was quite funny. I stood at the fence and talked cows with Dr. T for a few minutes before donning my boots and hat and heading west to where Mr. Snip resides. He's behaving himself pretty well...in another day or so I may actually be able to regain my former confidence...Day three was better than day two...which was better than day one :) The biggest problem continues to be neck-reining and the stopping. (Heh heh...I'd like to see myself bouncing around like a ball when I 'm trying to stop him fast!) Wednesday afternoon Snip was trotting along nicely and my right stirrup fell off! I about went over his head but managed to keep my seat. Then today, I rode under a tree-branch (and yes, I was there on purpose; I knew the branches were high enough that he couldn't scrape me off) and a dead twig raked across my hat (I have a hard straw hat) and poor ol' Snipper spooked! I got him under control in about two steps. It was harder when the neighbor's dogs charged the fence barking...