Podcasting

Lisa turned me onto podcasts about a year ago, telling me I simply had to listen to Rosary Army. At the time I didn't have an iPod or any other version of an MP3 player, but she would play the podcast - excitedly pointing out they too have a "cloffice" - everytime I went anywhere with her in her car. Eventually, I downloaded all four of the Rosaries to pray in my office, and I even saved one onto my daughter's MP3 player to take with me on a business trip that required a long plane ride.

Last year my husband gave me an iPod Touch for a joint Christmas/birthday present and I started building my own library of music and podcasts. Geez, there are a lot of podcasts available on iTunes and other resources such as SQPN!

Lisa advised me to start with Secrets of Battlestar Galactica and I thoroughly enjoyed the final season listening to Jeff & Zina talk about the cultural and religious references found in the series. It reminded me of being in college, sitting up late having intelligent, academic, discussions with other history or English majors. I even found myself talking back to the podcast as I listened.

Also at Lisa's recommendation I started listening to Daily Breakfast with Father Roderick, Catholic under the Hood, and Catholic Moments. Since going to the Catholic New Media Celebration, I've subscribed to nearly a dozen new podcasts and am trying to weed through them to find out which ones I really prefer. A few new favorites are clearly emerging, but I'm having trouble finding time to listen to them all!

So, how many podcasts do you listen to?

And when do you listen to them?

I can't listen at work, because I've discovered that I need the part of my brain that listens consciously to think about what I'm working on, as opposed to having music on in the background.

I listen while I'm doing something solitary like painting the hallway trim or riding my bicycle around the neighborhood. Occasionally I'll listen while I'm preparing dinner and last week I listened in the car while driving back from a conference in Austin, though I really dislike driving with the earbuds in my ears.

I've discovered my family really doesn't like me listening to podcasts when they're around. You know the old adage that the kids don't need you for anything until you pick up the telephone to make a call. It's true with putting earbuds in your ears and turning on a podcast. In the evening it's one thing to sit on the couch with my husband and watch tv together, but it feels rude to sit on the couch and listen to a podcast while he watches television. Why? Is it because listening to a podcast is such a solitary activity?

We were driving to Oklahoma City last month and while my husband is driving I feel as though I can read a book and not be rude, but the minute I put in the earbuds I felt as though I was ignoring my family. I know this probably isn't the case; trust me when I say that my husband will tell you I ignore the family plenty when I read.

If you have any suggestions for me on how you manage your podcasts or even how to prioritize what you listen to and how often, please leave me a comment! I know I could use the advice!

Townhall Meeting on Healthcare

Shelly and I have written several times this year about the rising grassroots movement speaking out loudly against the unprecedented increase of federal spending, so when our Congressman hosted a town hall meeting close to my house, I had to go.

My mom and I showed up last night not quite knowing what to expect. We were confident it wouldn't be rowdy like other town halls we've seen on tv, as our Congressman is known to be an outspoken opponent of the Democrat proposed Healthcare reform plan. However, we did consider the possibility that supporters of the President/DNC plan would show up intending to disrupt the meeting.

Walking up to the school and into the cafeteria, I immediately noticed the age of the crowd. Sure, I saw a few people my own age that I recognized, but the overwhelming age of the crowd was over 60. Those attending didn't look like political operatives or wheelers and dealers - they looked like ordinary people I might see at the grocery store.

Congressman Olson received little disruption from the audience as he went through his presentation on what's happening in Congress and highlighted his stance on the current Democrat Healthcare reform bill. One guy on the front row who looked like he was about to jump out of his seat to debate the Congressman, but to his credit he kept his shout outs in check and waited for the right opportunity to ask his questions.

After the presentation, which laid out various criticisms of the current healthcare bill and alternative proposals to reform healthcare, the Congressman began to answer the questions people had written on cards when they came in the room. The questions touched on every topic imaginable: from the public healthcare option, Cap and Trade, Energy policy, the President's multitude of czars, federal deficit spending, unions, pre-existing health conditions, bank lending, unemployment, the media, term limits, the fairness doctrine (now known as Diveristy of Localism), tort reform Texas style, needing Republicans to work together, and so many more. The last question he answered was from a little girl who asked, "Exactly how tall are you?" The crowd loved it. (He's 6' 3" if you are wondering.)

What was really interesting was how agitated people were during the meeting. It wasn't that they necessarily disagreed with him, but they came to voice their opinions and be heard. Everyone there, including myself, wanted to see our national representative agree with us, to see that he is out there trying to represent us, to confirm our belief that there are people in Washington D. C. who do listen to their constituents.

There were really some great moments that sent chills up my spine - when we all placed on hands on our heart to Pledge Allegiance to the Flag; when the 10th Amendment was read aloud; and when everyone jumped to their feet in wild applause at the Congressman's statement that raising taxes in America is not the solution to our problems.

It was a wonderful opportunity to hear my Congressman speak about what solutions he envisions for our nation, on so many topics. He reassured us that the problems the GOP has had with congressional spending and not being true to their convictions is a thing of the past for the majority of the delegation. The GOP defeat in 2006 had an impact. They know the voters were cleaning house of elected officials who had gone back on their promises.

He reminded us that We, the People, are an integral part of the solution to America's current trouble. Our Congressmen and Senators are fighting for us, but we need to continue to speak with our friends, family, and neighbors about what we believe in and what we want to see happen in our country. We must stand up and pay attention - the issues are just too important to ourselves, our children and grandchildren.

* The picture of Congressman Olson and myself was taken in 2008.

Edward M. "Ted" Kennedy

This morning I woke to the news that Sen. Edward M. Kennedy has died.

Many years ago, I served as a White House intern and I well remember the talk about Sen. Kennedy and how to deal with him. In fact, at one signing ceremony I was nearly run down by him on the South Lawn of the White House; he towered over me and would have knocked me over without noticing if someone hadn't pulled me out of the aisle at the last minute. (Thanks Helen.)

But this morning I have been considering his life and the crushing expectations placed on him.

The youngest of nine children, with extremely powerful politically-connected parents, his formation years as a child were privileged. At the time of his birth, his father, Joe Kennedy had already made a fortune and more, and was backing President Roosevelt both financially and politically. When Teddy was six years old, they moved to England, where the family was feted while his father served as U.S. Ambassador. He could not have kept from developing a feeling of carefree royalty in a bustling family of older brothers and sisters.

Joe & Rose Kennedy's overwhelming ambition for their sons is no secret. Can any of us even begin to conceive the weight that must have descended on Teddy as the family suffered one tragedy after another. When he was just nine years old, his oldest sister received a lobotomy and was institutionalized; at 12, he lost his oldest brother in World War II. When he was 16, his second oldest sister died in a plane crash.

As a young man, did he ever have any real control over his own destiny or was it largely pre-determined by his family connections? Was there ever a moment when he wanted to break out on his own, go his own way, make his own mark? Expelled from Harvard, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1951, but did not receive the intelligence assignment he requested. Within two years he was discharged and back at Harvard, where he played football and earned a B.A. in history and government. He was graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law in 1959.

Teddy's adult life seems to have been directed by his domineering father and charismatic older brothers. When Jack ran for President, Teddy did his part on the campaign trail. With Bobby named Attorney General, there must be an "assignment" for Teddy, but at 28, he wasn't old enough to step up and fill Jack's Senate seat. (Senators must be thirty.) It was arranged to have the seat held by a friend until Teddy was old enough to be elected. He served as Senator from November 7, 1962 until his death.

A year later, President Kennedy was assassinated, and the family destiny and public adoration fell onto Bobby. Then in a cruel twist, Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated. The burden landed squarely on Teddy's shoulders and his life spiraled out of control. His own presidency was not meant to be; on July 18, 1969 his actions (and inactions) led to the death of Mary Jo Kopechne.

Ted Kennedy will be eulogized this week for his role as U.S. Senator, the "Liberal Lion" who served with passion, gusto, and stalwart effectiveness. While many view his accomplishments with great respect, the biography of his playboy years, his indiscretions, his personal problems, his family dynamics, reveals that he also may have had a troubled soul.

This week, some will try to sanctify Ted Kennedy, while others will disparage him, and many will attempt to use his death for their own political gain. Regardless of your political viewpoints, please join me in a prayer for forgiveness of any transgressions and rest for the soul of a man that worked hard for our country.

Strange Places to Pray

If you are a busy parent, or just a busy person, you have discovered you must take advantage of little bits of time when you find it. For instance, I've been known to pray the rosary while waiting in car pool, write thank you notes while at my child's swim practice and as you learned two weeks ago, sit on my kitchen floor for a 3-Minute Retreat.

Recently, while having a discussion with my kids on praying daily, I shared with them the place I probably pray the most - my shower. After laughing hysterically at me, they told me it was a silly and strange place to pray. To me, its perfectly logical. I'm alone and quiet. Its early in the day, so I don't have a lot clouding my thoughts yet. Years ago, as a lawyer, I did my best case analysis and strategy in the shower. Now, most days, I find myself in prayer while getting clean.

What about you? Do you take advantage of quiet time when and where you find it? Where do you find yourself speaking and listening to the Lord?

God, Help Me.

All summer I have heard God telling me to “Be Still.” I’ve heard Him say it at church in the readings, the Homilies; I’ve heard it through songs and music that pop into my head or come on the radio. As a working mom, my time is already largely spent away from my family, and making time to develop a relationship with God outside of Mass is a challenge. "Be Still" and do what exactly?

Jim Beckman's book God, Help Me. How to Grow in Prayer, begins by noting that many young adults were never taught to pray. While we have grown up with programs and events, a whole generation is defenseless against today’s attacks on the faith. I immediately recognized myself as one of those (not so young anymore) adults raised on CCE classes that were less about learning the catechism and more about feeling good in our knowledge that God Loves Us.

In fact, I chose this book from the Catholic Company reviewers program because I was curious how to grow in prayer. Growing up “praying” meant a specific prayer and as an adult praying a Rosary is the closest I’ve come to a structured meditation of prayer. I suspect I’m not alone in saying that I haven’t been formally exposed to the specifics on using prayer to broaden my relationship with God.

God, Help Me! is divided into three parts. Part One addresses why prayer is important and defines the cultural realties that prevent us from developing a capacity for true intimacy with God.

In the first chapter Beckman addresses the major excuses of why we don’t pray today, predominantly a lack of time. But, the most intimate relationships in our lives are with those people with whom we purposefully schedule quality time. So it is with God, and regular, consistent, daily prayer is our doorway to embracing that loving relationship.

Beckman also addresses the daily influences within our culture that steal our attention and diminish our ability to pray, including living in a godless society of isolation, independence, “tolerance,” and sexual confusion. We are constantly busy, over-saturated, and blind to our spiritual journey. Distracted prayer is not conducive to a deep prayerful life.

Part Two focuses on understanding meaningful prayer, how the Holy Spirit speaks to us, the ebb and flow of desolation, and how to discern what messages are coming from God vs. our enemy. Beckman elaborates on the core principles and dynamics of a good prayer, which requires consistency and honesty. (Chapter five is a key chapter) He also identifies key roadblocks to achieving good prayer.

Part Three demonstrates what can happen in our lives when prayer comes alive. Real experiences illustrate the gift of Christian imagination and discernment in prayer to connect with spiritual realities. Beckman encourages the development of good habits. “Little things done consistently become a formidable force in our lives.”

The challenge of committing to purposeful prayer is to take our natural habits and push past them to develop new, healthy “supernatural” habits, similar to adopting a physical work out schedule that over time supersedes our natural habit, or desire, to be at rest. Our spiritual life is a journey, always moving, either toward or away from God. Beckman presents an effective analogy of that spiritual journey compared with the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. (You’ll have to read the book for the fascinating details.)

The book closes with testimonies and five appendices of additional information on finding closeness with God through structured prayer.

This book, like the prayer it recommends, requires an alert and active mind for thoughtful processing. For a working mom who multi-tasks everything, especially reading, I note the irony that as I read this book these sentences really stand out to me.

“The pace of our life, the constant noise in our environment, the barrage of media and images – all contribute to a poverty of silence, which is the breeding ground of the interior life. Years of this rapid, noisy pace leave us somewhat impaired, sort of ‘attention deficit’ when it comes to prayer. We have a difficult time quieting ourselves, stilling our hearts and listening.”

Even in these few hours I’ve taken to read the book and write the review, I've been distracted, even guilted, about the time it's taken. The kids are calling, doors are opening, the TV is loud in the other room, the phone rings, the dryer buzzes, and my husband interrupts me to talk. My house is never still except when all are asleep.

However, if you too feel the call from God to “be still” and don’t know what to do with that message, I encourage you to read this book.

Back to School Prayer

As my two oldest kids head back to school this morning, like so many other across the country and our great state of Texas, my best wishes and prayers go with them.

Father of all mercies
We ask that you would bless
the youngest and littlest of learners,
the most helpless and powerless of persons,
with Your infinite and loving mercy,
granting them the strength to learn, concentrate,
and act appropriately towards their teachers and fellow students.
We also ask that You would watch over them,
at home and at school
and grant them proper direction so that they may learn
of Your wonderful virtues.
We ask this in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen
David Bennett

Never underestimate...

I received this stunning video in an email last week. Please take a few minutes to watch it; you will want to stand up and cheer, applaud, salute, and you might even shed a tear.

According to the email, the video is the result of a Mom in Alabama asking her high school son to help with a commercial for the Tea Party she was involved in organizing. Her note reads,

"I asked Justin if he could help me make a commercial for my group's Tea Party. He sat down at the laptop for about an hour, and then brought this to me and asked, ' is this okay, Mom?' After I finished watching it, my stomach was in my throat. Everyone that I have sent it to has really enjoyed it, so I wanted my friends to see it. I am so proud!"

Men in Black

I blogged last month that I would work to finish the tower of books on my nightstand and I've kept that promise so far. My latest book to read is "Men in Black, How the Supreme Court is Destroying America" by Mark R. Levin. Even before law school, I had a fascination with the United States Supreme Court and its justices. This book was on the New York Times Bestseller list in 2005, when it was published, and on my "must read" list ever since.

Mark Levin has organized this book with each chapter focusing on a major issue that has been decided by the Supreme Court, starting with the concept of Judicial Review, moving to Abortion, Religion, Immigration and Freedom of Speech to name a few. He covers all the hot topics of Constitutional Law.

The details provided by Mr. Levin of each case, the decision and written opinions are meticulous and easy to follow with extensive notes. He lays out his argument that the Court has been moving away from using the actual Constitution as a basis in deciding cases for decades in a thought provoking and convincing manner. Over and over he illustrates, through case study, how the Court has ignored our founding document and many times, their own precedent, to adjust the outcome of the case to fit the justices' own social, moral or political beliefs.

I found the evidence of this path the Supreme Court is on, taking us further and further away from the Constitution and our country's founding, simply overwhelming. There were several times I had to put the book down and walk away because I was disturbed. Since I knew most of these cases from my Con Law classes in Law School, the outcomes weren't surprising, but to see it all put together in one place really hit home. These are unelected, unaccountable Justices, appointed for life, usurping the power reserved in the Constitution for the other 2 branches of the government by substituting their own Judgment for that of the Legislative and Executive branch.

This is a very methodical and well written book for those who are interested in seeing how the Court, over the years, has given themselves the ability to create, shape and legislate new laws from the bench. It is also a good read for all those people who wonder if elections really matter.

Catholic New Media

At the beginning of the summer, Lisa and I attended the Catholic New Media Celebration in San Antonio. Father Dave Dwyer, host of a popular XM/Sirius radio show and website called “Busted Halo,” gave the first plenary talk.

If you haven’t taken a look at Busted Halo, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Dave Dwyer became an ordained a Paulist Priest in 2000. Pre-priesthood, he produced and directed programs for MTV and Comedy Central. He also worked as “Happy Dave”, an on-air personality for a hit music radio station. He created Busted Halo in response to a calling to reach young adults in their twenties.

At the time of the Catholic New Media Celebration, the Year of St. Paul was coming to an end, making way for the Year for Priests. Fr. Dwyer focused his plenary on the passion of St. Paul towards his vocation, his a calling to answer the needs of the people. St. Paul worked to reach those outside the formal church building to bring people together, to remind them that the church is the People of God. In other words, he didn’t preach to the choir, he preached to the general public.

Father Dwyer compared the work being done by Catholic podcasters and bloggers with St. Paul. He pointed out numerous similarities shared by St. Paul and Catholics using new media. Both have two names (a birth name and a “user id”). Both have “day jobs” (Paul was a tentmaker.) Both reach people all over the world discussing the Sacred and the Secular. And like St. Paul, Catholic new media is exploring a variety of “new” communication tools that require us to be creative on a regular basis.

A good example of Catholics using new media to educate people about the Church include CatholicHack, SaintCast, Catholic Under the Hood, and Busted Halo. Check them out.

My favorite is called Googling God, a “how to” series of videos introducing young adult Catholics to our beliefs, traditions, saints, and the sacraments, including Confession.

Those Little Moments: Where's Jesus

The post below is actually a reprint off my personal blog from Thursday, April 03, 2008. I had a request to share this story with you.

So we were at Mass on Easter Sunday (2008)... Our 4 year old son leans over and asks me where Jesus is. I'm thinking ... is this a question about Jesus Rising on Easter? I quietly tell him Jesus went back to heaven, but he is with us all the time. He says, "No, he's not here, God's here, but where's Jesus?" Okay. Now what? We are in the middle of Mass and can't have a whole conversation.

He then points to the altar and says again, "God's here, where's Jesus". A huge light bulb went off suddenly and I began to smile from ear to ear. For Easter Mass, the pastor said Mass alone. There wasn't a deacon by his side. Our sweet son was thinking the priest was God and the missing deacon was Jesus.

It's those little moments you will cherish forever.

3-Minute Retreat

I saw a message on FaceBook yesterday evening from Catholic Mom, Lisa Hendey, recommending Loyola Press’ new iPhone app called 3-Minute Retreat. I added the app while in the middle of preparing dinner, and as I turned away from my phone to go back to my cooking, I found myself drawn to take the 3 minutes to try it out. So, I sat down on the floor right where I was, in my kitchen and proceeded through the day's retreat.

As I tapped the icon, there appeared a nice picture of a family, with words to read and reflect on, while playing soothing music. A nice aspect of their app is you proceed through the retreat at your own pace, clicking the continue button when you are ready. The theme was “A Loving Person," and the reading was Matthew 5:43-48.

You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.

The Retreat ended with this beautiful prayer.

Jesus, Prince of Peace, make my heart an instrument of your love and peace. Help me bring your peace, patience, and comfort to others. Amen

Isn't that just beautiful in it's simplicity? The reading and prayer really spoke to my heart. After I was finished with my prayer and reflection, I quickly wrote down this prayer in my list of favorite prayers that I collect for moments when I need prayerful inspiration.

Lately, I’ve been having a little trouble loving my “enemy”, not really an enemy of course, but those whom I vehemently disagree with, in attitude, values and position. I was struck at how timely this reading and message was for me. It came at precisely the right moment to remind me that we are called to love everyone, not just those we agree with, but to love all, especially those who we find difficult to embrace. Something I needed to remember at those time when I get frustrated in life.

My first 3-Minute Retreat was so relevant to things I have been feeling and am amazed how such a simple and loving reminder affected my evening. Being a loving person and striving to be an example of Christ's peace is constant work and I know I can use the reminder from time to time.

After last night's wonderful experience with this Retreat, I can't wait to see what they have in store for me today. Thank you Lisa Hendey for spreading the news of this app. You always have excellent recommendations to share.

Even if you don't have an iPhone, Loyola Press offers this 3-Minute Retreat on the internet also.

Planned Parenthood's Houston Expansion

**If you are looking for information on the upcoming Prayer and Protest at the Planned Parenthood Houston's new Super Center building, please visit my recent post by clicking here.**

I was stunned several months ago to learn that Planned Parenthood is in the process of renovating a building in Houston that when completed, could be the largest free standing late term abortion facility in the world. You read that correctly, 78,000 sq feet of clinic where babies up to 6 months (25 weeks) will be killed, according to the state of Texas. Since a Texas law change in 2003, Planned Parenthood in Houston has been forced to outsource their late-term abortion practice due to inadequate facilities. The new building is expected to comply with Chapter 171 of the Texas Health and Safety Code,

Sec. 171.004. ABORTION OF FETUS AGE 16 WEEKS OR MORE. An abortion of a fetus age 16 weeks or more may be performed only at an ambulatory surgical center or hospital licensed to perform the abortion.

The building is at the corner of Elgin and I-45 S (Gulf Freeway), overlooking my alma mater, The University of Houston, campus. I vividly remember seeing this building everyday as I would cross campus to my classes. Back then, it was just a 7 story bank building. Not only is the building sitting next door to UH, but also to Texas Southern University. The location is centered at the intersection of four "super-neighborhoods" of inner city Houston. These 4 neighborhoods are poor (combined average median per-capita income is $11,637) and approximately 90% minority residents. Raging Elephants has an informative video looking at this new Houston Planned Parenthood clinic and their choice of location.

Several pro-life organizations in Houston and across Texas are working together to stop this renovation from proceeding, through boycotts, publicity and peaceful prayer vigils. Texas Families Against Planned Parenthood is a coalition of these various pro-life groups that is focusing its efforts on this new facility. Visit their site and sign up for their email list to stay up to date with the progress and upcoming events.

Events, such as, prayer vigils on the public sidewalk outside the construction fence every Friday. According to stories, some of the workers will come and pray with them during their lunch break, asking God to forgive them for working on this building, but unable to quit during these hard economic times.

The website also lists the contractors and subcontractors working on the site. You are asked to respectfully contact them and express your concern for their participation in building the world's largest free-standing late term abortion center. This type of intervention has been successful in either stopping the building of a clinic or seriously hampering their progress in other cities.

Take a moment, join with me in praying for the lives that potentially will be lost in this center, the workers at the site, the decison makers involved, and for those who will enter their doors should the clinic become operational.

*Update* Visit my recent post on this topic for an update on the progress of the facility and an upcoming Prayer March and Silent Siege.

First Post-Ike Mass Celebrated

It's been 11 long months since Hurricane Ike ravaged the Texas Gulf Coast. While Shelly & I's families had very minimal damage and minor inconveniences due to the storm, there are areas near here still struggling to get back on their feet. That's why when I read this headline, First Post-Ike Mass Celebrated on Bolivar Peninsula, in my Texas Catholic Herald today, it caused tears to well up. This 27 mile long barrier island was a permanent home to approximately 3800 residents. They were the hardest hit by Hurricane Ike in September 2008. To compare the before and after Ike pictures of Bolivar is shocking to say the least.

In addition to recovering from the physical devastation from Ike, the Archdiocese made the difficult decision not to rebuild either of the parish churches on the peninsula, instead, to combine their parishes with those on nearby Galveston island to create one large parish with several satellite churches and mass sites. I can only imagine the effect that news had on the community still living on the peninsula. Instead of watching the two Catholic Churches on the peninsula be rebuilt, they watched as what was left of the sanctuaries were bulldozed. So, when I read they resumed celebrating mass after so many months of pure devastation, I had tears of relief for these strong and resilient people.

Archival Feast Day

I think I've mentioned before that I work as an Archivist for my "day job." Today archivists across the nation are heading to Austin for the annual conference of the Society of American Archivists. It's very fitting because today is the feast day of the Patron Saint of Librarians & Archivists, St. Lawrence, a 3rd century deacon responsible for the written archives and records of the early Catholic church.

On August 6, 258, six other deacons along with Pope St. Sixtus II were captured by Emperor Valerian and martyred. As the Church librarian and archivist, Lawrence was expected to have a list of all the members of the early church, and the locations of the alleged golden treasure belonging to the Vatican. Captured by soldiers on August 8, he was told to produce the wealth of the church, especially the names of all Roman nobles who were Christians.

Lawrence went through the city and gathered together all the poor and sick people supported by the Church and brought them forth saying, "This is the Church's treasure!" According to tradition, for his presumed impudence, Lawrence was then slowly roasted on a grill on the site of the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Rome, in the hope that he would publicly renounce his religion and reveal the names of the wealthy Christians.

The annual Perseid meteor shower that occurs near his feast day in August is sometimes called "The Tears of St. Lawrence" in Italy.

Paul C. over at Saint Cast has a Saint Cast episode about St. Lawrence from last year. Enjoy!

We have a winner!

Last week I posted about using Weight Watchers to put an end to creeping weight gain. All told I've lost 12 pounds after 8 weeks of the program and even my father commented this weekend about my "new" appearance.

That post also offered a Weight Watchers points clicker to one of our readers who left a comment. We were pleased to have four comments, including one delicious sounding recipe for brownies! I can't wait to try them.

This morning I pulled a random number and am pleased to announce that the points clicker goes to Bego who keeps a blog titled another cup of coffee. I laughed when I pulled up her blog this morning to contact her because this weekend she wrote a post titled "so, I never win ANYTHING". She won a Macbook Pro last week. Hm... I know good things come in threes. Maybe she should pick up a lottery ticket tonight.

Thank you to all our readers who leave us comments. We appreciate knowing you're there. Lisa already has a great idea for another giveaway. It's a little bigger than a clicker and I know you'll like it!

This is my Body

The Sunday readings over the last few weeks have focused on the Bread of Life.

Exodus 16:2-4; God tells Moses, “I will now rain down bread from heaven for you."

2 Kings 4:42-44; Elisha uses twenty barley loaves to feed hundreds of people, and has food leftover.

John 6:1-14; Jesus feeds a crowd with five loaves and two fish, and twelve wicker baskets are needed to gather the fragments.

And today's Gospel reminds us that Christ is not filling our stomachs.

John 6:41-51.

‘I am the bread of life.....this is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that a man may eat it and not die. I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I shall give is my flesh, for the life of the world.’

The single most important part of Mass is the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
Do this in memory of me.

How many times have I routinely followed the Liturgies and not truly felt the weight of what we are remembering, what Christ has done for us?

This inspirational video (h/t Lisa Hendey Faith & Family Live!) very powerfully connects you visually with the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Community Organizers vs The Mob

Unless you've been living under a rock, avoiding Facebook and Twitter, you're probably aware that citizens, both Republican and Democrat, are attending town hall meetings hosted by their US Representative and questioning the government healthcare plan.

In return for their dedication and duty, ordinary citizens who have the audacity to question this 1200+ page bill and request answers, are being labeled "angry mobs". Even worse, these citizens, some of whom have never protested a thing in their life, are being disparaged directly by the DNC.

Those of us who stand up and question a bill being considered by OUR government are being called desperate, angry, intimidating, well-organized, extreme, and thuggish. Oh, and we're also too well-dressed (many of us coming straight from our jobs...) and therefore we have well-funded allies who are scaring us with lies and funding our efforts.

Apparently you can't be "grass-roots" if you don't support the "progressive reform" movement. You can't have an independent thought, talk with your neighbor and find out they share a similar thought, ask one another "What can we do", and decide jointly to find more neighbors and meet at the local Chick-fil-A to talk while the kids play on the playset. Then as a small group, you meet other small groups and attend a town hall to ask your Representative why this bill is being pushed through so quickly and express your concerns.

This is "MOB" behavior.

Let's see what the President of the United States says:

This is the moment our movement was built for.

For one month, the fight for health insurance reform leaves the backrooms of Washington, D.C., and returns to communities across America. Throughout August, members of Congress are back home, where the hands they shake and the voices they hear will not belong to lobbyists, but to people like you.
Home is where we're strongest. We didn't win last year's election together at a committee hearing in D.C. We won it on the doorsteps and the phone lines, at the softball games and the town meetings, and in every part of this great country where people gather to talk about what matters most. And if you're willing to step up once again, that's exactly where we're going to win this historic campaign for the guaranteed, affordable health insurance that every American deserves.

There are those who profit from the status quo, or see this debate as a political game, and they will stop at nothing to block reform. They are filling the airwaves and the internet with outrageous falsehoods to scare people into opposing change. And some people, not surprisingly, are getting pretty nervous.
So we've got to get out there, fight lies with truth, and set the record straight.

That's why Organizing for America is putting together thousands of events this month where you can reach out to neighbors, show your support, and make certain your members of Congress know that you're counting on them to act.

But these canvasses, town halls, and gatherings only make a difference if you turn up to knock on doors, share your views, and show your support. So here's what I need from you: Can you commit to join at least one event in your community this month?
In politics, there's a rule that says when you ask people to get involved, always tell them it'll be easy. Well, let's be honest here: Passing comprehensive health insurance reform will not be easy. Every President since Harry Truman has talked about it, and the most powerful and experienced lobbyists in Washington stand in the way.

But every day we don't act, Americans watch their premiums rise three times faster than wages, small businesses and families are pushed towards bankruptcy, and 14,000 people lose their coverage entirely. The cost of inaction is simply too much for the people of this nation to bear.
So yes, fixing this crisis will not be easy. Our opponents will attack us every day for daring to try. It will require time, and hard work, and there will be days when we don't know if we have anything more to give. But there comes a moment when we all have to choose between doing what's easy, and doing what's right.

This is one of those times. And moments like this are what this movement was built for. So, are you ready?
Please commit now to taking at least one action in your community this month to build support for health insurance reform.
Let's seize this moment and win this historic victory for our economy, our health and our families.
Thank you,
President Barack Obama

I guess when you fight "the Mob" they call you a "community organizer."

Tax cut for 95% of Americans?

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner hit the Sunday lecture circuit last weekend. Let’s take a look at the talking points in his interview with George Stephanopoulos on ABC News This Week.

Geithner starts by saying “there are signs the recession is easing.” Really?

Then he says they are going to make American’s more confident about their future … “by just making people understand we're going to do what's necessary to get growth back on track.”

Anytime a government official says they’re going to MAKE you do something, a red light should go off you in your head. Just how does the government define “What’s necessary?” Their answer to a recession was to add more to the debt than all previous presidents -- from George Washington to George W. Bush -- combined.

He throws in a few facts now and then when he says,

“We need recovery to be built on private demand, private spending. Businesses taking a chance again on the American economy. Putting investments to work. Starting to rebuild their employment base. That's the ultimate test for recovery.”

Exactly what has the Obama administration done to help private demand, private spending? Look at how have they treated businesses and investors during these first six months! Businesses aren’t going to invest or rebuild their employment base when they can see what’s coming down the road. The stimulus bill didn’t stimulate private business. Cap and Trade? Taking over Healthcare? This doesn’t help private companies.

Geithner thinks that to build a more productive economy, the government needs to be…"making investments in health care reform, in education, in infrastructure, fixing our financial system.”

I think what he meant was radically re-engineer the market-based U.S. economy.

Stephanopoulos points out to Geithner that … “Congressional Budget Office estimates, that your budget will add 9 trillion dollars to the national debt over the next decade.”

And how does Geithner respond? Read this one carefully.

"George it is absolutely right and very important for everyone to understand we will not get this economy back on track, recovery will not be strong enough to sustain unless we can convince the American people that we're going to have the will to bring these deficits down…”

Mr. Secretary, HOW do you bring down deficits? Well, first you blame the current situation on the previous administration, the one that’s been out of office now for over six months and then you hit the American people with this:

“…We're going to a range of other things and that's going to be a very difficult challenge for this country. We can do this, it just requires the will to act. … We're going to have to do what's necessary… We have to bring these deficits down very dramatically. … And that's going to require some very hard choices.”

Hard choices for whom Mr. Secretary?

Stephanopoulos tries to lead Geithner to the answer “…To bring the deficits down,… That means more revenues. The President has said that taxes won't go up for any Americans earning under $250,000, but it doesn't appear that he's going to be able to keep that promise if you're going to bring the deficits down.”

Geithner deflects. He hems and haws. He says we don’t have a choice as a country and it’s going to be hard.

Surprised? You shouldn’t be.

Weight Watchers and Comment Contest

Like many other moms out there, I have struggled with what we sighingly call "leftover baby weight" ever since I had my last child.

My "baby" is going to be seven years old this month.

Four years ago I lost most of the extra weight, but slowly it crept back with a vengenance, nearly doubling. This summer I refused to buy another pair of pants in a larger size, so I signed up for the Weight Watchers program conveniently offered at my employer. Like everything else in life, it's a conscious daily decision to change my habits and change my lifestyle.

It shouldn't come as any surprise, but Weight Watchers works. After 8 weeks on the program, my pants that were too tight are now baggy in some places and loose around the waist. Even though I walked around the first week hungry all the time, I committed to the program and during the second week something in my body adjusted to eating fewer calories.

I'm not going to detail the entire Weight Watchers program and their points system here, but if you're familiar with it, you know that foods are assigned points and you are allowed to eat X number of points each day.

This brings me to our first ever comments contest. We know that our friends are reading along now and then, and we really enjoy sharing our thoughts with you.

Any person that leaves a comment on this post between now and Sunday, August 9, will be entered into a drawing for a brand new, in the box, Weight Watchers points clicker that fits on your keychain.

The comment can be anything from sharing a tip about your own healthy lifestyle to a simple "Hi."

We're looking forward to hearing from you.

Justice Clarence Thomas

With the recent hearings for Supreme Court nominee, Judge Sotomayor, I am reminded of another set of confirmation hearings in 1991, that was not nearly as civil. If your knowledge of Justice Clarence Thomas is limited to the public lynching that occurred during his confirmation hearing 18 years ago, you are missing out on the story of a truly amazing life journey.

There is something special, not only about his own life story, but about his love of young people. Justice Thomas is somewhat known for his encouragement and support of the goals, dreams and achievements in the young. Probably attributable to his own struggles and the support he received from his grandfather while growing up.

This May, while our President was talking down the accomplishments, goals and dreams of graduates at commencement ceremonies, Justice Thomas was delivering a very different type of message; to a local high school graduating class in Maryland. One headline titled the speech, "Always do right, Even when it's hard." I encourage you to take a moment and read the article highlighting excerpts from his speech. It is the type of speech I wish I'd heard at my own graduations. Inspiring, honest and humble.

The story of how he came to be invited to that high school to speak is equally impressive. He met two students, football players being recruited by Nebraska, while sitting in coach on a plane ride. After hours of speaking on the plane, the students went back to school and asked their principal to invite Justice Thomas to speak at their graduation. To everyone's surprise, he did just that.

For an even clearer picture of how and why Justice Thomas thinks the way he does, you must read “My Grandfather’s Son”, his autobiography. It is a very heartfelt and personal book that helps you understand the forces in his life that shaped him and why he is such a powerful figure on the Supreme Court. Justice Thomas recounts how his faith, courage, and perseverance inspired him to rise up against all odds and achieve his dreams.

I speak and write about Justice Thomas with an undeniable bias. To me, he is an incredible thinker, jurist, speaker and personable human being. Meeting him, while I was still a law student, shaped my thinking in a way I wouldn't have thought possible before. My autographed picture of him and I is still sitting framed on my desk after more than a decade. And I have no plans to ever move it.

Thank you

If you haven't been over to MckMama's blog about Stellan, but you've wondered how Stellan is doing, I have some good news.

While he isn't entirely out of the woods, as you can clearly see, he is responding to treatment and has improved a great deal. God hears our prayers. Why this child and not others, I can't answer. But I do feel very strongly that God has a plan for Stellan and He is working through MckMama and Stellan to reach us.

If you feel moved to help this family beyond prayers, they have a few special requests. I think we could all learn from this generous family.

We want to help you. How can we?

We have been so honored that so many of you are wanting to help us. We are so grateful for your willingness to be generous and thankful that God has placed you in our lives. ....

Our family would be tickled pink if you would take your willingness to give and to serve and to donate blood and to lavish love and whatnot and go and spread that out to other needy babies, children and families.

Want to send Stellan a stuffed animal? We'd rather you drove to your local children's hospital and give one to a baby who has none. Wish you could hug us? We feel that love so strongly and thank you for it. Can you get to a shelter and hug a family who has no arms around them? Feel led to open your pocketbook? How generous! Please don't send us money. We would rather you gave on Stellan's behalf to Sufficient Grace Ministries, Until Journey's End, the Liz Logelin Foundation or String of
Pearls.