This Day . . .

"This day I marry my best friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love."


These were the words we used to for our wedding verse. It was true then, and still is now. Seven years ago today, I was incredibly honored to marry my best friend. I was thirty-three years old, and had nearly given up on finding real love. It had taken me thirty-three years, and I went through a lot of frogs, but I finally found my prince. Thank you, Jesus!








The years have gone by quickly. They’ve been amazing years too. We never had that awkward period of adjustment that everyone talks about. The dreaded first year was wonderful. So was the second. And third. As well as every year since. In a way, we really do still feel like newlyweds.


It hasn’t been the picture of perfection though, it’s too real for that. We’ve had some bad times, but mostly good times. There has been pain, but mostly joy. We’ve even had a few disagreements, but never anything serious. I can honestly say we have never had a knock-down, drag-out type of fight. We’ve never yelled at each other, called one another names, or disrespected each other in any way. I guess you could say we’re boring!


As the years have passed, I have remained thankful that God would bless me with such a wonderful man to spend my life with. He is a really good man. It is not a stretch for me to say that he has more honor, integrity and good character than most pastors I’ve known personally and probably more than a whole lot more that I don’t know personally. His faith and his walk with God are very real and very strong. He doesn’t just talk the talk, he walks the walk. He is a good leader, good husband, good provider, good father, and still my best friend. And I am a much better person because I have him in my life.


And honey, if you’re reading this, I still do!

Search Me, O God

When I first got saved, 10 years ago, I had a voracious appetite for the Word of God. I stopped watching TV, changed my relationships and associations, and most definitely changed my activities. I read the Bible all the time. Seriously, any free time I had. I just couldn’t get enough of it. I read the whole Bible three times the first year. Except for Psalms.


I just couldn’t get into Psalms. It wasn’t that I didn’t think there wasn’t good content to be read; it’s just that I couldn’t structure it right. I had a tendency to read like a machine, start at the beginning and go straight through to the end, but I found I couldn’t do that with the Psalms. Eventually I found a way to read them. And guess what? I found that I loved them! Such beauty, such love, such pain, such humility, such need for God, such need for grace, such honesty. Brutal honesty at times. I found so much contained within the Psalms that spoke directly to me, and whatever situation I found myself in. Now I love Psalms, and have tons of underlining, highlighting and notes to prove that.


Recently when I was in Psalms and came to a passage that really caused to me pause and think on it for a moment. I was in Psalm 139 (one of my favorites anyway), at the last two verses really jumped out at me. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life.” ~ Psalm 139:23-24


What a brave prayer! Read it again and let it sink in. Did the Psalmist really want God to search him and see into the deepest parts of his heart and mind? Yikes! My first reaction was, I really don’t think I would want God to do that to me. But then I realized how absurd that is because He does anyway. He knows the parts inside of me that are still dark and cold. He knows when I hold offense or unforgiveness in my heart. He knows when I sin in thought, even if I don’t actually sin in action.


He knows me far better than I know myself. And that's why I think this prayer is so brave. The Psalmist is asking God to examine him, test him, and then show him anything that is within him, that is not pure and pleasing to God. Why would he do that? Why would we do this? Is this something we really want to know? Isn’t ignorance bliss? No, in this case it's not. The answer to why is in the very last part of the prayer. When God shows us the sin in our lives (thoughts, words, actions, and attitudes), He is leading us along the path of everlasting life, the path of righteousness, the path to Him.


So now, despite my great trepidation, I will try to be as brave as the Psalmist, and pray this prayer on a regular basis, because I know that He corrects me lovingly and for my own good, because He is a good Daddy. That doesn’t mean I have to like it though! (Still working on attitude!) I realize this is not without challenge because once He shows me, I really am responsible for changing. And I will probably have to let go of some things that I’d really rather hang on to. But I know He will be there, and He will give me the grace I need. And I know that according to Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Amen!

Controversy & Personal ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

~~~

There is something that I just have to vent about. Once again on this last Monday, all day long, I heard about one thing. It is a story that most people really don’t know, or could care less about, but for me, it is appalling. On March 23, 2003, PFC Lori Piestewa, along with the rest of her convoy, including best friend Jessica Lynch, made a wrong turn in the Iraq desert and drove into an enemy town, where they were attacked. Everyone except Lynch, who was taken as a POW, was killed. Lori had been a single mom of two children, who are now left in the care of her parents.


The story is sad. All of the fallen soldiers are heroes, simply because they laid down their lives in defense of their country. However, for Lori Piestewa, that is not the end of the story. She was the first known Native American woman to die in combat. And for that distinction, she has been revered, honored and I might even say worshiped. Celebrations and memorials are continuous. A Valley mountain and freeway has been renamed for her amid great controversy. Even Extreme Home Makeover has bought into the hype by providing her parents and two children left behind a new home, for no reason other than that she was the first Native American woman to die in combat.


This is a bitter pill for many of us, because while she is only one of the many of Arizonan’s killed in action, she is the only one who gets any recognition for it. When then Gov. Janet Napolitano heard of Lori’s death, she pressured, bullied, and it’s been debate that she even broke laws to force the change of the name of the previously mentioned freeway and mountain. She called for the resignation of someone who challenged her, and had a staff member call and threaten others who fought it. She even had the audacity to rudely dismiss the tearful pleas of the numerous other families who’d recently lost loved ones in Iraq and Afghanistan, to consider changing the names of these sites to honor all of the fallen, rather than just one. She wouldn’t even hear them out. It was a shrewd political move that ensured the reelection of our most liberal governor to date, because people who’d never even voted before, showed up in droves to vote her in for a second term out of gratitude (or manipulation). Make no mistake, Napolitano couldn’t care less for the combat death of Lori or Piestewa family, this was purely political.


Lori Piestewa, a single mom from the reservation in northern Arizona, died a hero serving her country. I believe that. But the way she is now worshiped is a brutal slap in the face to the memory of all of our other fallen heroes. She made a wrong turn and is now revered a hundred times more than any other of our lost sons and daughters. She died without firing a single shot, something her Hopi family (the same family who is calling all Native American’s to return from the war any way they can because this is not their war) is very proud of, and is celebrated and revered more than any decorated soldier. Around here, the only ones who remember any of the other numerous heroes killed in action, are the families. They get no press. They get no ceremonies. They get no memorials. And that to me is unconscionable.


And . . .


The other current event that I’d like to discuss is personal. I am so excited to announce that I have just been offered my first paid writing job! A lovely lady from Train Up Children, found me through FaithWriter’s and contacted me, to have me write lesson plans for preschoolers. I am thrilled at this wonderful opportunity to get paid doing something I love, while helping little children to know and love Jesus. Praise the Lord! By the way, obviously I checked out the site before I agreed and true to the name, it really looks like a fantastic site, with tons of teaching materials for your children.

Give Me Liberty, Or Give Me Death! ~ All About America

Anyone who really knows me, understands that I am a passionate patriot. I love America immensely. It offers freedom, hope and opportunity like no other country in the world. As such, I will be posting All About America every Wednesday, because I am proud to be an American! The content will vary and may include photos, facts, commentary, quotes, excerpts of speeches, etc. I will use different sources and make every attempt to site the source. Sometimes I may offer commentary, other times, if I think the content speaks for itself, I may not. I hope you enjoy All About America as much as I do, and that you’ll come back and visit often. And may God Bless America!


This has been taken from my second favorite book of all time, The American Patriot’s Almanac by William J. Bennett and John T.E. Cribb. It is filled with tons of amazing information and history, and anyone who loves history or consider themselves to be patriotic, will love this book. I did a full review of this book and if you would like to see it, simply click here.

~~~

On March 23, 1775, with hostilities between Americans and British troops breaking out in New England, Patrick Henry stood in a packed St. John’s Church in Richmond, Virginia, and mad a fiery argument to the Second Virginia Convention that the time had come for the colonies to gather their strength and commit themselves to action. His ringing words still remind us that freedom must be defended:


Shall we gather strength by irresolution and inaction? Shall we acquire the means of effectual resistance by lying supinely on our backs, and hugging the delusive phantom of Hope, until our enemies shall have bound us hand and foot? . . . The battle, sir, is not to the strong alone; it is to the vigilant, the active, the brave. Besides, sir, we have no election. If we were base enough to desire it, it is now too late to retire from the contest. There is no retreat, but in submission and slavery! Our chains are forged, their clanking may be heard on the plains of Boston! The war is inevitable – and let it come! I repeat it, sir, let it come!

It is in vain, sir, to extenuate the matter. Gentlemen may cry, peace, peace – but there is no peace. The war is actually begun! The next gale that sweeps from the north will bring to our ears the clash of resounding arms! Our brethren are already in the field! Why stand we here idle? What is it that gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty, or give me death!

A Proverb A Day . . .

When I began to read my Bible today, I was thrilled to see I was beginning Proverbs again. I can say with absolute certainty that Proverbs is my favorite book of the Bible. And I’m in it quite often. The way I read my Bible, is to begin with a full page or two of Psalms, Proverbs, or Ecclesiastes, then spend some time in my normal reading from the other books. I basically go Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiasts, Proverbs, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, etc. So, as I said, I’m in Proverbs a lot.


But I love that book! There is so much wisdom, instruction, and good old fashioned common sense contained within it. And everything applies to life today. Want to know about relationships? It’s in Proverbs. Want to know about good character? It’s in Proverbs. Want to know about money? It’s in Proverbs. Want to know about how to live your life in a productive and honorable way? It’s in Proverbs. Likewise, if you want to learn how not to be or act, it too is in Proverbs. Do you see a theme here?


Every single time I read Proverbs, something jumps out at me. I’m not kidding every time. So I began my reading today with the beginning of Proverbs, which according to my current Bible, the New Living Translation, explains The Purpose of Proverbs. The first few lines, verses 2 – 4 really jumped out at me. They are:


“The purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline, and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs, people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct, and doing what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will make the simple-minded clever. They will give knowledge and purpose to young people.” Prov. 1:2-4 (NLT)


WOW! Can you imagine what our society would be like if this stuff was actually taught? How much better off would we be if Proverbs was required reading and teaching, in the home, the schools, and the boardrooms all across America? What if all the tremendous amount of money and effort that goes into teaching liberal tolerance, sexual exploitation of children, alternative lifestyles, etc, what if that actually was used for good? What if, bear with me now, what if the content of Proverbs was actually taught in our churches?


Imagine how society would be if discipline wasn’t a bad and dreaded thing to be fought and rebelled against. Imagine if we studied Proverbs to learn how to handle money, bills, and debt? Imagine life if everyone focused on good character and how to be better people, honest, honorable and with high integrity. Imagine if people actually behaved in a way that was consistently right, just, and fair!


Alas, I know it is just wishful thinking . . . But once again I commit myself to learning and growing through Proverbs, and yes, of course, the rest of the Bible too. In it I’ve learned how to be a good wife and mother. In it I’ve learned (somewhat anyway) to tame my tongue. In it I’ve learned to seek and follow God’s will for my life, because His way is certainly better than mine.


No, I’ve not yet gotten to the finish line. I know I still have a long way to go, to be the person God created me to be. But I also know that I am not alone on this journey. Jesus is always with me. And He has given me both the Holy Spirit and His Word to guide and direct me. And once again I am thankful for it all! I’d love to give you more verses to ponder, but if I added all of the verses that speak to me, this would be about 6,000 words long. So instead, I’ll just recommend that you spend some time in Proverbs. After all, as I always say, “a Proverb a day will keep evil away.”

My Great Epiphany!

Ok, so I mentioned on my Facebook page the other day, that I had an epiphany, but didn’t elaborate at the time. I guess people really do read all those blurbs, because I’ve had several people mention it since, both in person and through e-communication. So, I’ve decided to go ahead and divulge this great “Ah-ha” moment that I had.


Many of you know from reading this blog over the last year that I didn’t come from a close or healthy family. I’ve divulged much of my testimony in various posts throughout the year. But for those of you who may not know, I grew up in poverty and a single-mom household that was dysfunctional. My mother has a lot of . . . issues. Depression, hopelessness and a victim-mentality rule her life. I experienced hunger and humiliation, emotional and sexual abuse, and neglect. My growing up years were based on survival and as such, I was fiercely independent and headstrong. In many ways, I was more like the parent of the household, for myself, my little brother and my mother.


Obviously we are not a close-knit family. Even to this day we are not close. I try to honor my mother as best as I can, but her choice has been to remain distant from my life. I love her, and I pray for her, but I have strong and healthy boundaries, and will not allow myself to get sucked into the drama and dysfunction that I once knew. And I feel good about my life and know that God is ok with it too. What remains is in His hands. My mother gives what she can, which is very little, but now I can accept that, and further I'm happy for that.


The summer before my senior year, I signed up for the Air Force in delayed enlistment. Within two weeks of my graduation, I was off to basic training. I was thrilled and excited and full of fear too! When I left, I said a quick goodbye, with a quicker hug, to my mother and turned to face my new life. Then I noticed something. Others, guys and gals, who were making the same journey, were holding onto their families tightly and crying. I was shocked and confused by this. I just didn’t get it. It never occurred to me to cry, that this might be a sad or lonely thing. As far as I was concerned, it was an exciting new adventure and I was free!


Through the years since, I’ve seen this type of thing many times. I’ve seen tears at saying goodbye to and missing family, a longing to be together, through the good and the bad, talking to parents and siblings often on the phone, and getting together for holidays and even just because. I came to realize that that was “normal,” and I was not. I still didn’t get it, and I didn’t understand it, but I accepted it. My normal was independence, distance and friends – not family. In fact, I held tight to my belief in family by choice, not by chance, meaning my friends and pets were my family, not those I was blood related to.


Fast forward to now and my recent epiphany. We were watching The Biggest Loser the other night and the remaining contestants all got to go home for the week. It was touching and emotional and just… nice. When it was time for them to go back to the ranch though, it was so clear how hard this was for many people – especially the moms who had to say goodbye to their children. I was incredibly moved by these scenes.


I began thinking about how would I handle a separation like that from my beloved husband and precious daughter? Just thinking about it made me cry. Literally. And that was it! That was my great epiphany! I realized then that I had made it to “normal.” All of a sudden, I got it. And I realized once again, the amazing faithfulness of God. He took my deepest longing to have a family that I loved fiercely and enjoyed too, and He gave it to me! I realized that He gave me an Eph. 3:20 family, that He gave me beauty for ashes, and He restored all that the locust had stolen. And I was, and am, so very grateful! Thank you, Jesus!


“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us.” ~ Ephesians 3:20

Tragedy and Recovery ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

~~~

With so much that continues to go on in the world today, it remains difficult to choose what to talk about. From Obama taking money from AIG in 2008 (for more on that story click here) to Peolsi telling illegal immigrants that enforcing immigration policy is un-American (for more on that story click here) to more Planned Parenthood's caught on tape trying to hide statuatory rape crimes (for more on that story click here) to ACORN participating in the upcoming Census (for more on that story click here) to global warming cultists inconveniently being stranded by cold weather (for more on that story click here). There are two things though, that I would like to discuss today. The first is the tragic and senseless death of Natasha Richardson. What makes this so sad, is not her celebrity, though certainly more of us have a deeper awareness of her because of it, but because it just doesn’t make sense (hence the senseless).


Natasha suffered what appeared to be an innocuous fall and bumped her head. No one knew that even as she was joking about it, death was creeping up on her. Since the accident, I’ve heard several experts say that if she would have gotten proper testing, then treatment, it probably wouldn’t have ended this way. They further explain that any time any type of head injury is incurred proper medical attention should be taken. That sounds great in theory. But imagine how the insurance companies, particularly HMO’s, would react to that. And further imagine how much worse ER waiting rooms would be, if everyone who bumped there head in any way came for a CAT scan or MRI, because they tell us, time is of the essence. The theory sounds good, but actually, it doesn’t seem to mesh with reality. One thing that does mesh with reality is that this family, and families all over our communities, needs much prayer and support for dealing with the tragic and senseless of death of loved ones – mothers, fathers, children, parents, siblings, etc.


The second is the U.S. economy. I personally, am so tired of hearing what all the “experts” have to say, and I certainly don’t put much stock into it, after all, the experts are who got us into this mess. And contrary to popular belief, it will NOT be the experts, or the U.S. Government, who gets us out.


Bailouts, recovery, stimulus, whatever you want to call it, it’s welfare. And it’s wrong. Rewarding bad behavior never works. There is plenty of blame to go around, as to how this all happened, but waiting for someone to magically “fix” it is no better. The United States economy will turn around because of one thing – the spirit and determination of the working American people. Those who are willing, will pull themselves back up, be strong and do what they always do – get on with life. It won’t be The One, Congress, the experts, or those who live off “entitlements.”


I think we would all be shocked at how quickly the economy could turn around, if we had a brief (six month or so) moratorium from the news. Imagine how life could be without the constant barrage of doom and gloom we hear and see every day. Fear mongering accomplishes nothing productive. But hard work and common sense does.


I have been thinking much of an old song by Chris LeDoux, one that I’m sure most of you don’t know. Unfortunately, there’s no youtube video to share either. I really wish there was. But I have included the lyrics, and I think you’ll recognize the truth and wisdom contained herein.

The Working Man’s Dollar

Well, I'm just a Workin' Man's Dollar In the pocket of his old blue jeans
I ain't like my Wall Street brother He's in a bank so shiny and clean
Well, I'm faded and I'm wrinkled Tattered and stained with sweat
But I'm the 1st one called when Uncle Sam Needs a hand with theNational Debt

I've been wages for the farm hand For drivin' an old John Deere
I've been laid on a bar in a tavern To buy a workin' man an ice-cold beer
I've been tipped to a truck-stop waitress Taped where I was torn
And in the hand of a child I was laid on a plate In a church on Sunday morn

CHORUS:

They say I'm the root of all evil
I bring lust, power and greed
But this Workin' Man's Dollar only buys the things
A workin' man really needs

VERSE:

Well, they say I'm worth about fifty-cents In this modern inflated age
But don't tell that to the young man slavin' To make it on a minimum wage
Or that single workin' mother She's been scrapin' to make ends meet
To make a house a home Keep food on the table And shoes on her baby's feet

Well, I know my days are numbered I'm gettin' threadbare and wearin' thin
And they'll replace me with another But I'd do it all again
Cuz I've seen this great big country Passed from hand to callused hand
And I've got to say that I'm mighty proud That I belong to a workin' man

REPEAT CHORUS:

They say I'm the root of all evil
I bring lust, power and greed
But this Workin' Man's Dollar only buys the things
A workin' man really needs

Proverbs From Poor Richard's Almanac ~ All About America

Anyone who really knows me, understands that I am a passionate patriot. I love America immensely. It offers freedom, hope and opportunity like no other country in the world. As such, I will be posting All About America every Wednesday, because I am proud to be an American! The content will vary and may include photos, facts, commentary, quotes, excerpts of speeches, etc. I will use different sources and make every attempt to site the source. Sometimes I may offer commentary, other times, if I think the content speaks for itself, I may not. I hope you enjoy All About America as much as I do, and that you’ll come back and visit often. And may God Bless America!


This has been taken from my second favorite book of all time, The American Patriot’s Almanac by William J. Bennett and John T.E. Cribb. It is filled with tons of amazing information and history, and anyone who loves history or consider themselves to be patriotic, will love this book. I did a full review of this book and if you would like to see it, simply click here.

~~~

Many American Colonists started each year by opening the latest edition of their favorite almanac. The most famous was Poor Richard’s Almanack, published by Benjamin Franklin from 1733 – 1758, while he was a printer in Philadelphia. Readers appreciated the almanac’s weather predictions, astronomical data, and agricultural information. But they especially loved its humor, verses and practical advice, all dispensed by the pen of “Poor” Richard Saunders, a fictional astrologer whom Franklin invented to be the editor of his publication.


Some of Poor Richard’s proverbs are still quoted today. Many of the aphorisms came from earlier writers, ranging from Greek to English, but were often “Americanized” for Franklin’s readers.


Here are some proverbs from Poor Richard:

~ A penny saved is a penny earned.

~ Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.

~ With the old Almanack and the old year, leave thy old vices tho’ever so dear.

~ He that riseth late must trot all day, and shall scarce overtake his business at night.

~ Well done is better than well said.

~ People who are wrapped up in themselves make small packages.

~ Little strokes fall great oaks.

~ If a man could have his wishes, he would double his troubles.

~ One today is worth two tomorrows.

~ He that by the plow would thrive, himself must either hold or drive.

~ Laziness travels so slowly that Poverty soon overtakes him.

~ Better slip with the foot than with the tongue.

~ Look before, or you’ll find yourself behind.

~ Humility makes great men twice honorable.

~ Keep thy shop and thy shop shall keep thee.

~ A Lie stands on one leg, Truth on two.

~ Deny self for self’s sake.

~ To be humble to Superiors is Duty, to Equals is Courtesy, to Inferiors is Nobleness.

~ An old young man will be a young old man.

~ Fish and visitors stink in three days.

~ Diligence is the Mother of good luck.

~ God helps them that help themselves.

~ He that speaks much, is much mistaken.

~ Creditors have better memories than debtors.

~ He that would live in peace and at ease, must not speak all he knows, nor judge all he sees.

~ Where there’s marriage without love, there will be love without marriage.

~ Don’t value a man for the Quality he is of, but for the Qualities he possesses.

~ He that cannot obey, cannot command.

~ After crosses and losses men grow humbler & wiser.

~ As we must account for every idle word, so we must for every idle silence.

Audie Murphy ~ Character Counts

The Character Counts Meme posts every first and third Tuesday of the month. I’d love to have you join me for spotlighting, celebrating and honoring people of good character, who’ve led exemplary lives and who’ve lived with honor, integrity, dignity and sacrifice, and those who’ve inspired others by overcome great obstacles in their own lives. I believe that when we celebrate and exhort good character traits, we can turn the tide, and see more of them. At least I’d like to try! If you are joining us, please leave your name and link at the Mr. Linky down below and don’t forget to leave a comment! Blessings!

~~~

Audie Murphy was a true American hero, serving in the Army during WWII and later became a successful actor. But his life didn’t begin that way. Audie came from a very humble and challenging background. He was born in Texas to poor sharecroppers, Emmet and Josie Murphy, who were of Irish descent. He was the sixth of twelve children, nine of whom survived beyond their eighteenth year.


His father, Emmet, deserted the family in 1936, leaving Josie to try and raise the family alone. Audie dropped out of school in the eighth grade to help support the family. He earned a dollar a day, working for anyone who would hire him to plow or pick cotton. He became highly skilled with a rifle and was able to help feed the family through his hunting successes. When a friend commented on his skill, his response was, “Well, if I don’t hit what I shoot at, my family won’t eat today.” His mother died when he was fifteen years old, and he came into agreement with his oldest sister, Corrine, decided they had no choice but to put the youngest three in an orphanage (he reclaimed them after his service in the war).


Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Audie tried to enlist, but was turned away because of his age. He attempted once again when he sixteen, after getting his sister to help adjust his birth date to show that he was eighteen. He first tried to join the Marines and then the paratroopers, but was turned down by both because he was too small. The regular Army accepted him, but wanted to make him a cook or something else non-combatant, but Audie insisted on becoming a combat soldier. He received his training, but still had to fight to get overseas and into battle. His persistence paid off.


Not only did Audie participate in combat, in just twenty-seven months of service he became the most decorated soldier of World War II. In June 1945, one month after Germany’s surrender, he returned home a hero, and was discharged from the Army as a First Lieutenant. He had received the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, the Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts. Murphy participated in campaigns in North Africa, Sicily, Italy, France and Germany, as denoted by his European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with one silver battle star (denoting five campaigns), four bronze battle stars, plus a bronze arrowhead representing his two amphibious assault landings at Sicily and southern France. During the French Campaign, Murphy was awarded two Presidential Citations, one from the 3rd Infantry Division, and one from the 15th Inf. Regiment during the Holtzwihr action.


In addition to the numerous awards and decorations he received from the U.S. for his service, he also received several from other nations. The French government awarded Murphy its highest award, the Legion of Honor. He also received two Croix de Guerre medals from France and the Croix de Guerre 1940 Palm from Belgium.


Following the war, Audie became an actor, making more than forty movies. He starred in To Hell and Back, which was based on his autobiography, and also in The Red Badge of Courage. He suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder, and was plagued by insomnia, depression and nightmares. During the 1960’s he even became addicted to doctor prescribed sleeping pills. When he recognized that he had become addicted to the drug, he locked himself in a motel room where he took himself off the pills, going through withdrawal for a week on his own.


Murphy was an advocate of the needs of America's military veterans. He eventually broke the taboo about publicly discussing war-related mental conditions. In an effort to draw attention to the problems of returning Korean and Vietnam War veterans, Murphy spoke out candidly about his own problems with PTSD, known then and during World War II as “battle fatigue” and also commonly known by the World War I term "shell shock." He called on the United States government to give increased consideration and study to the emotional impact that combat experiences have on veterans, and to extend health care benefits to address PTSD and other mental-health problems suffered by returning war veterans.


Audie Murphy died on May, 28, 1971 during Memorial Day weekend, in a plane crash, at the age of 46. On June 7, 1971, Murphy was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, with a full-honors ceremony. A special flagstone walkway was later constructed to accommodate the large number of people who visit to pay their respects. His is the second most-visited gravesite, after that of President John F. Kennedy.


Audie Murphy was a true American hero, who overcame great adversity in his personal life, who believed in the cause of freedom, and who knew that freedom isn’t free, but was worth dying for. Even with all his honors, he remained a humble man, downplaying his own acts, but always praising and honoring his fellow soldiers.


“The true meaning of America, you ask?” Murphy once said. “It’s in a Texas rodeo, in a policeman’s badge, in the sound of laughing children, in a political rally, in a newspaper… In all these things, and many more, you’ll find America. In all these things, you’ll find freedom. And freedom is what America means to the world.”

About Education

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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One of the things that is destroying this nation, is the liberal agenda in the public school systems. There is much to fear at our schools, and I’m not just talking about drugs and violence.


In many schools, Planned Parenthood is firmly entrenched and actively indoctrinating the students into their belief system. PP is a vile organization, promoting the sexualization of children and teens, murder of babies (at various stages of life), advancing the homosexual agenda, and is guilty of both racism (yes, still) and protecting child molesters by covering the crime and urging under-aged girls to lie about the perpetrator – and I don’t mean a 16 or 17 year old girl with a 18 or 19 year old boy, more like a 14 year old girl with a 25 year old man. They are in the business of abortions and they “educate” children into sexual relationships they are not mature enough for, in order to stay in business, by providing more abortions.


Another problem with the current education system is the re-writing of history and distortion of truth in the textbooks. References to America being founded on Christianity have been removed. Studies of the Founding Fathers have been cleared of any reference to their beliefs. And now, either Christianity is omitted completely or it is shown in a negative way. That often goes for Judaism too. But not for Islam. The religion of Islam is taught, in reverence, without critique or criticism. Once again, the liberals indoctrinate the students into tolerance of what they desire, and intolerance of what they don’t.


I’m sure there are some traditional public schools that are basically good. And I believe there are some great teachers who try to not yield to the pressure of the standards set forth by the liberal agencies that are in control. Further, I realize homeschooling and private schools are not options for many people. But it is essential that parents be involved – understand what is being taught, join the PTA or PTO, get on the school board, and be heard. And we need are responsible for teaching our children what is true, right and correct, when it is contradictory to what they are learning at school. Our children’s well-being and future depend on it.

The Truman Doctrine ~ All About America

Anyone who really knows me, understands that I am a passionate patriot. I love America immensely. It offers freedom, hope and opportunity like no other country in the world. As such, I will be posting All About America every Wednesday, because I am proud to be an American! The content will vary and may include photos, facts, commentary, quotes, excerpts of speeches, etc. I will use different sources and make every attempt to site the source. Sometimes I may offer commentary, other times if I think the content speaks for itself, I may not. I hope you enjoy All About America as much as I do, and that you’ll come back and visit often. And may God Bless America!

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In 1947, Greece and Turkey were faced with Communist-led rebels who were determined to overthrow their governments. U.S. President Harry Truman vowed to support Greece and Turkey, by offering funds and advisors to the two vulnerable nations. He went before Congress on March 12, 1947, to request $400 million to help. The president laid out a policy that became known as the Truman Doctrine – a pledge that the United States would help nations struggling to resist anti-democratic forces. Truman’s words still resonate, and are still important. It’s amazing, how much his words of yesterday, still apply today.


At the present moment in world history nearly every nation must choose between alternative ways of life. The choice is too often not a free one.

One way of life is based upon the will of the majority, and is distinguished by free institutions, representative government, free elections, guarantees of individual liberty, freedom of speech and religion, and freedom from political oppression.

The second way of life is based upon the will of a minority forcibly imposed upon the majority. It relies upon terror and oppression, a controlled press and radio, fixed elections, and the suppression of personal freedoms.

I believe that it must be the policy of the United States to support free peoples who are resisting attempted subjugation by armed minorities or by outside pressures. . .

The seeds of totalitarian regimes are nurtured by misery and want. They spread and grow in the evil soil of poverty and strife. They reach their full growth when the hope of a people for a better life has died. We must keep that hope alive.

If we falter in our leadership, we may endanger the peace of the world – and we shall surely endanger the welfare of our own nation.

Choosing Life in Finances

It’s time once again for the next part in Choosing Life! I’m excited that my Choosing Life column for Take Root and Write is being published twice a month, on the second and fourth Monday of each month. As such, I’ll republish my article here, the following day after it posts on my column there. TRW is a wonderful place to read amazing articles from over 40 different columns and women. I encourage you to check it out.

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"This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live." ~ Deut. 30:19


With all the doom and gloom news out there, pertaining to the economy, I felt it would be a good idea to talk about Choosing Life in our Finances. Times are tough right now, that’s for sure. Families all over America, and the world, are feeling the pinch. There are many reasons for this. Truth be told, some of these things we have no control of, but we do have control over some of it.


It is common sense, and recommended, to have an emergency savings fund set up, with three to six month of salary set aside. Because emergencies, situations, and life just happens. Yet most families don’t have a month, or even a half-month, of salary saved. And for most of these families it’s a matter of priorities. Whether it’s with their time, talent or treasure, people make a way for whatever is a priority to them. And up till now, savings hasn’t been a priority to many people.


While it’s true that the majority of people and families live paycheck to paycheck, and beyond their means via credit, it’s also true that this is a choice they’re making based on the priorities they have. Children often have a ridiculous amount of clothes and toys, and for parents, they too often have a ridiculous amount of clothes and toys. Is it really necessary to have a new big screen, flat-panel TV, or the latest version of a gaming system? What about cable with 400 channels, cell phones or computers for each family member, TV’s in all the bedrooms, and for that matter, do children really need to each have their own bedrooms? Or how about eating out frequently, regular spa treatments, or daily stops at Starbucks for a $5 coffee? Of course the answer to all of these questions is no, but these are the priorities many of us have had.


Any of the above choices, and so much more, is choosing death financially, if we don’t first choose life financially, by reprioritizing, and putting the first things first. How do we do that? We sacrifice our need for instant gratification. We choose to not use credit, but purchase with cash. We choose to simplify, save money and invest wisely (it is possible). And we choose to make short-term sacrifice for long-term gain. (Good planning and hard work lead to prosperity, but hasty shortcuts lead to poverty. ~ Prov. 21:5 NLT)


None of the above items or services are bad things, and living well certainly isn’t a bad thing, but we must live wisely. We should purchase the items we want, after taking care of what our family needs – including the savings account. (Put first things first. Prepare your work outside and get it ready for yourself in the field; and afterward build your house and establish a home. ~ Prov. 24:27 AMP) A $5 coffee doesn’t need to be a daily item, but it can be a special treat, an indulgence we allow ourselves once in awhile. Prosperity is a reward, not a right. And living beyond our means is not prosperity, it is enslavement. (The rich rule over the poor and the borrower is servant to the lender. ~ Prov. 22:7 NKJV)


There are many resources available for financial fitness. The Bible has much to teach about finances – especially in Proverbs. Financial Peace University is an amazing Bible-based program which helps people to overcome the burden of debt and live well. There are many other books and programs, both Biblical and secular, which offer a wealth of wisdom about how achieve financial fitness. (Get all the advice and instruction you can, so you will be wise the rest of your life. ~ Prov. 19:20 NLT) By taking control of our finances, by shaking off the shackles of debt, by having a real savings account, and by living within our means, we are choosing life financially.

Huh?, So Sad, and Goodbye ~ Current Events Wrap Up

Ok, it’s Thursday, and you know what that means… It’s time for The Current Events Wrap Up meme, hosted by the amazing Julie Arduini at her The Surrendered Scribe blog. The Current Events Wrap Up meme is the vision God gave Julie for discussing what is going on in the world, nation and even our own lives. This is really a fantastic meme and we would love to see it grow. There is so much happening these days and it would be amazing to have a team of conservative commentators discussing their thoughts. Please go and check out Julie’s blog, and if you like current events or news, think about joining in and/or spreading the word!

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Ok, from the world of “what the heck are people thinking…”

~ A woman in Florida, Latreasa L. Goodman, 27, calls 911 three times to report the emergency that she was at a McDonald’s and had ordered and paid for a 10-piece Chicken McNuggets. However, after paying, it was discovered that McDonald’s had run out of Chicken McNuggets. Stating that McDonald’s doesn’t give refunds, the cashier suggested other items from the menu. This apparently was the emergency that warranted three calls to 911.

While I do believe McDonald’s could have handled the situation better, what the heck was this woman thinking?


~ A man from Canada, Desiderio Fortunato, was pepper sprayed by a U.S. border patrol agent for telling the agent to “say please” when he was told to turn off his car. He refused to do so, because he wanted to be asked politely. He apparently had no problem with complying with the order, but wanted to be treated with courtesy. The border patrol states that the agent did nothing wrong.

I too, long for a more polite, courteous society, but I’m not sure I would have been so adamant about it in post-9/11 days, with a border agent. However, did the agent have go as far as pepper spraying the man, seriously, what the heck was he thinking?


This is just so sad…

On Saturday, Feb 28th, two NFL football players and two friends (also football players, but not pro), went fishing off the coast of FL in the Gulf of Mexico. The boat capsized when the men were pulling up anchor. One has been found. Four days later, the others are still missing.

This story is particularly sad to me. Yes, I’m sure the NFL status has brought more attention to the story than what would have happened if they were not. However, that’s really not my interest in it. We watch one station for news here – the NBC affiliate (we don’t get Fox News, so it's just NBC). Bruce Cooper, father of NFL football player, Marquis Cooper, has been a sports broadcaster here, at the NBC station, for more than 20 years.

Bruce Cooper has a wonderful reputation. He is known to be a really great guy. Seriously, everybody loves Coop! He is just one of those guys who seems to be amazing, down to earth, real, and oh, so nice! Coop always has a smile, a big, infectious one, and is highly regarded and respected here. Oh, and he’s a Christian too. I didn’t know that before. I mean, how many media people does that apply to? But he is. And not just one of those sound-bite Christians either. In recent interviews, he has talked about prayer (which doesn’t mean much these days), talked about his faith (ok, a little warmer), talked about God (slightly warmer, since most people talk about ‘god’), but beyond that, he has talked about and called on the name of Jesus. And to go just a little further, he’s been quoting Scripture. And I’ve been hearing that Marquis is just like his dad.

For Marquis, it has always been about football, fishing, family, and faith. He’s recently added to the family part, with a wife he loves very much, and a 3 year old daughter he lives for.

Anytime something like this happens, it is a tragedy. But when it is someone “known,” it seems to touch you just a little more. Marquis grew up here. He went to high school less than 10 miles from where I live. No, I don’t know him. And no, I don’t know his father. But in a way, they’re family. I don’t know why these things happen – especially to the good guys. But they do. And while most would say that all hope is gone, still these families hope, and pray, because they know that our God is a miracle working God. And even if the miracle doesn’t happen, Coop knows, that he knows, that he knows, that one day he will be reunited with his son.

For now, I’ll continue to join the families in hoping and praying for a miracle, for peace, for comfort, and for closure in this very difficult time.


And a brief, but heartfelt goodbye…

Also on Saturday, Feb. 28th, we said goodbye to a beloved radio newsman. Paul Harvey died at the age of 90, in a hospital here in AZ. He was a pioneer in broadcasting, beginning in 1933, and had millions of fans.

Harvey received many awards through the years. He was named Salesman of the Year, Commentator of the Year, Person of the Year, Father of the Year, and American of the Year. He was elected to the National Association of Broadcasters Radio Hall of Fame and Oklahoma Hall of Fame, and appeared on the Gallup poll list of America's most admired men. In addition he received 11 Freedom Foundation Awards as well as the Horatio Alger Award. In 2005, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the United States’ most prestigious civilian award, by President George W. Bush. On May 18, 2007, he received an honorary degree from Washington University in St. Louis.

Oh, how we will miss his voice, his style, and the way he told “the rest of the story.” Goodbye, Paul, well done.

Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address ~ All About America

Anyone who really knows me, understands that I am a passionate patriot. I love America immensely. It offers freedom, hope and opportunity like no other country in the world. As such, I will be posting All About America every Wednesday, because I am proud to be an American! The content will vary and may include photos, facts, commentary, quotes, excerpts of speeches, etc. I will use different sources and make every attempt to site the source. Sometimes I may offer commentary, other times, if I think the content speaks for itself, I may not. I hope you enjoy All About America as much as I do, and that you’ll come back and visit often. And may God Bless America!


This has been taken from my second favorite book of all time, The American Patriot’s Almanac by William J. Bennett and John T.E. Cribb. It is filled with tons of amazing information and history, and anyone who loves history or consider themselves to be patriotic, will love this book. I did a full review of this book and if you would like to see it, simply click here.

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When Abraham Lincoln gave his second inaugural address at the U.S. Capitol on March 4th, 1865, the end of the Civil War was in sight. Sherman had cut through the South, and Grant was slowly tightening the Union vise around Lee’s army at Petersburg. Yet Lincoln did not speak of triumph. Instead, he turned to the task of healing a broken nation. He reminded his listeners that the war would end the evil of slavery, and suggested that it was God’s will that both North and South pay for that evil. He urged his countrymen to maintain their faith in God’s wisdom as they began to “bind up the nation’s wounds.”


Lincoln’s second inaugural address, like his Gettysburg Address, is inscribed on an inner wall of the Lincoln Memorial.


… Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another draw with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said “the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.”

With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan – to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.

Elizabeth Ann Seton ~ Character Counts

The Character Counts Meme posts every first and third Tuesday of the month. I’d love to have you join me for spotlighting, celebrating and honoring people of good character, who’ve led exemplary lives and who’ve lived with honor, integrity, dignity and sacrifice, and those who’ve inspired others by overcome great obstacles in their own lives. I believe that when we celebrate and exhort good character traits, we can turn the tide, and see more of them. At least I’d like to try! If you are joining us, please leave your name and link at the Mr. Linky down below and don’t forget to leave a comment! Blessings!

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On September 14, 1975, Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton, was canonized by the Roman Catholic Church, becoming America’s first American-born saint. She was born in New York City on August 28, 1774. She grew up in a wealthy family, as an Episcopalian. Her mother died when she was just three years old.


When she was just nineteen years old, she married William Seton, who was a wealthy business man, and they had five children. Elizabeth enjoyed a privileged social position and was devoted to several charitable activities. In 1803, everything changed for the Seton family. William’s shipping business lost several ships at sea, forcing the business to bankruptcy. Soon thereafter, William developed tuberculosis and his doctors sent them to Italy for the healthier climate. Unfortunately, soon after reaching Italy and while they were still in quarantine, William died.


While waiting for a passage back to the United States, Elizabeth stayed with a wealthy Italian family and was exposed to, and deeply impressed by, their devout Catholic faith. She returned to New York with little money to raise her children and soon made a decision that would make their lives even harder – she converted to Catholicism. It was a difficult time in American history when Catholics often suffered great prejudice. She was then rejected by her friends and family, and struggled to support herself and her children.


A rector in Baltimore heard of her dire situation and invited her to establish a school for girls there. In 1808, Elizabeth embarked on a fantastic new life. She settled in Baltimore and began the Paca Street School, the country’s first Catholic elementary school. Then a year later, she founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph’s, a religious community of women devoted to teaching and serving the poor. As the community grew, it opened schools and orphanages in New York and Philadelphia.


On January 4, 1821, at the age of 46, Elizabeth Seton died of tuberculosis, like her husband William before her. By then the Sisters of Charity were spreading across the country. Today Seton’s legacy includes thousands of sisters who work in hundreds of schools, hospitals, and social service centers throughout the world. Her home in Manhattan is now a shrine in her honor and there is a statue of her displayed at Saint Raymond’s Cemetery in the Bronx. Today, her remains are entombed in the Basilica that bears her name – the Basilica of the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.


Elizabeth was a woman of prayer and service, who was dedicated to following the will of God, and had deep devotion to the Eucharist, the Sacred Scriptures and the Virgin Mary. The 23rd Psalm was her favorite prayer throughout her life. She understood loss and sacrifice, and through service to others experienced fulfillment and purpose. She proved that one person, of good character, can make a difference.


“We must pray literally without ceasing—without ceasing—in every occurrence and employment of our lives . . . that prayer of the heart which is independent of place or situation, or which is rather a habit of lifting up the heart to God as in a constant communication with Him.” ~ Elizabeth Ann Seton.