View Full Version : Dora's Diaries Part Deux!
I decided to start over with the Diaries. There was WAY too much baggage and personal information floating around cyber space on the first one.
So please feel free to post responses and remarks and thoughts and ideas. Would love to hear from all of you.
Wondering about the wisdom of posting about dates and stuff. What do you think???
This last weekend was wonderful! Whoo Hoo! I have huge blisters on my feet from walking the riverwalk. My feet were killing me, but I was so happy to be on a nice date with a nice guy that I just kept smiling like a nut and hobbled right on along! Ha!
rosebud
02-25-2008, 04:03 PM
:partyAbsolutely loved reading about your weekend adventure. Sounds like you had a really great time and met someone nice.
Theresa
02-25-2008, 04:15 PM
so does this mean part 1 will go away?
Yes...Part I is gone....
On Sunday I played at the Comfort Immanuel Lutheran Church for the 8AM service and for kids church then drove to Boerne to attend church with the family at my brother's church. When we walked in there was STRONG EAU DE SKUNK odor.
Seems a skunk had burrowed under the pier and beam foundation, got frightened by something and sprayed.
Whew! That was a strong smell! Our eyes were burning and it was just us Hammers in attendance that day. So we decided to dismiss.
Today I'm teaching lessons here at the church. All the doors are open wide to try to air the place out. You can still smell the skunkiness...LOL!
The day the skunk went to church! In the first United Pentecostal Church! In the sleepy little town of Boerne, Texas! It was a fight for survival for sure!
commonsense
02-25-2008, 07:14 PM
Apparently the skunk needed salvation....
Sorry to see part 1 deleted but certainly understand your reasons. Now we can look forward to the new Dora and new diaries.
Dora,
I read your post about the skunks and I Smell your pain .:toofunny
We too have had to deal with those smelly things under the church.
We pour ammonia in several containers ( cups or bowls) and place them through out the building . Close all doors and windows and leave the building closed for a few hours. We would use about 32 to 48 oz. to do an area 40 x 90.
The ammonia neutralizes the odor and it does help a lot.Any cheap bottle of ammonia will do the job.
We used this method to rid the odor until DH found where they were getting under the building and blocked the entrance.
Dora,
I read your post about the skunks and I Smell your pain .:toofunny
We too have had to deal with those smelly things under the church.
We pour ammonia in several containers ( cups or bowls) and place them through out the building . Close all doors and windows and leave the building closed for a few hours. We would use about 32 to 48 oz. to do an area 40 x 90.
The ammonia neutralizes the odor and it does help a lot.Any cheap bottle of ammonia will do the job.
We used this method to rid the odor until DH found where they were getting under the building and blocked the entrance.
OH! Thank you! Thank you! Going to try that tomorrow.
I opened all the doors today to let things air out. But when I closed up you could still smell the odour de Skunkie!
OH! Thank you! Thank you! Going to try that tomorrow.
I opened all the doors today to let things air out. But when I closed up you could still smell the odour de Skunkie!
Great! Let me know if you are happy with the results.
I was skeptical when I was first told about this remedy but thought oh well..... why not?
Nothing else was working so a $1 bottle of ammonia and a little time was a cheap enough experiment.
I got a CALL LAST NIGHT!!!! :bliss:party:gaga:bliss:party
When the phone rings I sing the bolded part:
It Must Be Him
I tell myself what's done is done
I tell myself don't be a fool
Play the field have a lot of fun
It's easy when you play it cool
I tell myself don't be a chump
Who cares, let him stay away
That's when the phone rings and I jump
And as I grab the phone I pray
Let it please be him, OH DEAR GOD!!!
It must be him or I shall die
Or I shall die
Oh hello, hello my dear God
It must be him but it's not him
And then I die
That's when I die
After a while, I'm myself again
I take the pieces off the floor
Put my heart on the shelf again
You'll never hurt me anymore
I'm not a puppet on a string
I'll find somebody else someday
That's when the phone rings, and once again
I start to pray
Let it please be him, OH DEAR GOD!!!
It must be him , it must be him
or I shall die, Or I shall die
Oh hello, hello my dear God
It must be him but it's not him
And then I die
That's when I die
When it IS him, I do a little gig! After we hang up, I shout around the living room! LOLOLOL
:bliss:party:bliss:party:gaga:gaga:bliss
We've been having beautiful weather here in Boerne. Took my poodle doggie out for a walk this morning and it was cold & windy. BRRRrrrrr!
I live in an apartment, so no back yard for Jazz (my dog). In the mornings he's pretty desperate to go outside, so I throw on my long coat over my jammies, slide on some ballet flats and dash outside with Jazz.
He's so grateful! Ha!
I usually don't know what my hair looks like...come back inside, look in the mirror and say, "Uh Oh! Can't believe I went outside like that!" Is this too much information??? LOL
That is why I love the country..... no nosey neighbors and etc!
The only eyes watching are the birds, deer, squirrels,wild turkey, and whatever else is lurking behind the trees.
Our house sits in the middle of 5 acres and surrounded by trees on all sides. There is about 12 wooded acres seperating us from our nearest neighbor.
After living in close quarter neighborhoods or by the church, behind the church, in the church our entire married life this is heavenly bliss! :bliss
Theresa
02-26-2008, 09:51 AM
well, now I have to figure out how to subscribe to a thread again LOL
That is why I love the country..... no nosey neighbors and etc!
The only eyes watching are the birds, deer, squirrels,wild turkey, and whatever else is lurking behind the trees.
Our house sits in the middle of 5 acres and surrounded by trees on all sides. There is about 12 wooded acres seperating us from our nearest neighbor.
After living in close quarter neighborhoods or by the church, behind the church, in the church our entire married life this is heavenly bliss! :bliss
Must be nice...guess you could run around nekkid!!! :bliss
I'm lovin' this little song:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zXS0nEOx_20
krawlinson
02-27-2008, 11:19 AM
Dora, I am new to the site. Are you kin to the Hammer's from the Pentecostals of Katy? This is the church I am now attending.:gaga
kelli
Dora, I am new to the site. Are you kin to the Hammer's from the Pentecostals of Katy? This is the church I am now attending.:gaga
kelli
Yes. Shara is my first cousin on my dad's side. Our dads are brothers.
krawlinson
02-28-2008, 10:06 AM
Now I understand some on McKenna's spunk (just from reading your different post)! Gosh that child is a hoot to watch!:cheer
Now I understand some on McKenna's spunk (just from reading your different post)! Gosh that child is a hoot to watch!:cheer
She is so funny! The life of the party for sure! Don't think she got that from me though. :gaga
Well, it's been kind of a weird Friday. Had a dentist's appointment this morning to have old silver filling removed and replaced with white material. So my mouth was numb for several hours. It was overcast and misty earlier in the day. Still a little bit cool but not so breezy.
It turned out to be a beautiful day once the clouds move on by.
Around 1:30PM the ex called and left a message saying that his aunt had committed suicide by overdosing on morphine. She had bone and lung cancer and was in major pain. Ex was quite glib about the whole thing. Apparently, out in California it's considered the "thing" to do when you find you have no family members to care for you and you are saddled with the prospect of living out the rest of your days in complete and utter misery. Ex seemed to think it was a very generous and selfless gesture for her to "off" herself and not become a burden to distant relative or nearby friends.
She had a friend who would check in on her every day who had a key to get in her place. So Auntie overdosed on morphine during the night and the friend found her the next morning. She had made arrangements with the Neptune Society to come pick up her body and do the cremation and notify her relatives. Also, she adamantly expressed that no funeral service be held for her and that no obituary be printed for her.
So sad... It really upset me, because Auntie and I were never able to resolve what happened when we visited in NY over the holidays last year. Ex had poisoned her against me and there was no way I could ever get back in her good graces after that.
Just leaves me with a sick knot in my stomach.
I let my mom know what happened...we're just stunned...
Mom plays Canasta online with a group of ladies and one of their friends had a major tragedy occur. Two of her boys were at school and one was home with her. She and her youngest son went to sleep and the trailer caught fire. A man was driving by and saw the flames. Was able to rescue the mom, but her son was killed in the fire.
My heart just breaks for this lady. Mom has become very good friends with these ladies. She sends fleece blankets to different ones after we have anointed and prayed over them - sort of like sending a prayer cloth.
Please pray for strength and comfort for this lady...she is in her mid 30's...Just devastating...
I had some work to do writing in chords for the Lutheran church music. So I packed up my laptop and my church music and now I'm hanging out at a neat little restaurant/coffee hang out called the Boerne Grill. So I'm almost finished with writing in the chords, Thank God!
One of my voice students is part of the praise band at the Methodist church here. They have a great band of musicians from the Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Assemblies churches. They have a contemporary service at the Methodist church every Saturday. So I'm going to play keys with them tomorrow night. Rehearsal starts at 4PM. We practice for about 2 hours, then service begins at 6PM (?). The pastor is a neat guy...he helps out with the praise singing...has a nice voice. I enjoy the fellowship. Very nice people.
just thought I'd touch base with y'all.
Love and Hugs!
Dora
Ok! So it looks like I'll be in Single Land for a little while longer... I won't be writing about dates any more. Not the wisest thing anyway...
It is soooo cold here and super windy! I went to the bank to make a deposit and had the hardest time opening the door against the wind.
Nice weather today. Beautiful blue skies, cool, not too windy. For the last three days it has been so cold, drizzling rain, blustery winds.
I've been sort of depressed for the last week or so. Got dumped. Oh well...moving right along.
Yesterday evening, after I finished teaching lessons, I packed up my computer and my Elizabeth George book and went to hang out at the coffee cafe' again. It was so cold outside and I think most sane people were staying home all cozy and warm. Stayed until 10PM surfing the net, reading, just hangin' out. Then went home to cuddle with Jazz. Went to bed early-ish since I didn't sleep so well the night before.
Today, I'm excited because I get the day off from playing for the Lutherans on Sunday. So I'm going to visit at Wayne and Elizabeth's church. Also, going this evening to visit, play games and hang out with them. Brad and Bethany are home from college this weekend. Always love it when I get to see them.
This Sunday night, I'm going to go to Bro. Chance's church and enjoy a good ole Pentecostal service. Hope to hang with my friend, Randa Chance. She's a great singer and so much fun! Love her sense of humor.
This should help to cheer me up. I really need to get out more.
Hope this weather stays nice.
Have a great weekend everyone!
HUGS!
Dora
BTW, I'm down to 166 lbs. now.
Here's a new pic
Spent the evening with the family. My cousins, Lucky and Tevia Guidroz were here visiting. Had a great time with them!
tamor
03-10-2008, 09:30 AM
BTW, I'm down to 166 lbs. now.
Here's a new pic
You are looking thin, Girlfriend. How tall are you?
I'm 5'4"
Need to start exercising and getting toned. Bethany wants me to join her gym so we can work out together while she's home for the summer. I'm gonna go check it out.
tamor
03-10-2008, 10:47 AM
I'm 5'4"
Need to start exercising and getting toned. Bethany wants me to join her gym so we can work out together while she's home for the summer. I'm gonna go check it out.
What's your goal weight? By the end of the summer you should be there, especially if you're working out with her.
GodsBabyGirl
03-10-2008, 09:21 PM
I'm 5'4"
Need to start exercising and getting toned. Bethany wants me to join her gym so we can work out together while she's home for the summer. I'm gonna go check it out.
You are looking good! Sis., I was sorry to hear of the break up.
Curves is a great place for women to work out. No males oggling, all women empowering one another to get fit.
I used to go, but haven't been in over a year. Money kinda funny, ya know?
Cheq it out!
Sis Wenona
You are looking good! Sis., I was sorry to hear of the break up.
Curves is a great place for women to work out. No males oggling, all women empowering one another to get fit.
I used to go, but haven't been in over a year. Money kinda funny, ya know?
Cheq it out!
Sis Wenona
Really no "break up" just never had a chance to get started...
Dear Lord help me!!! I'm in that coffee cafe' again surfing, paying bills, hangin' out. But the boutiques across the street are calling me name. MUST RESIST! Get thee behind me!
It's a beautiful day. Sunny. On the cool side. Not a cloud in the blue sky!
I'm trying to eat broccoli/cheese quiche. Ick! It's too dry. So I dumped some salsa on top. Didn't help much. I got about three bites down. Waste of $$$ Sticking with the snickerdoodle coffee.
Jazz has a bad tooth and is causing us all to suffer from his death breath. Got a vet appointment for Apr. 8th. Poor baby's really stinky. Yuck!
My cousins, Lucky and Tevia Guidroz, came up to the church yesterday while I was teaching. Tevia is AMAZINGLY talented. Wow! She plays piano, writes songs, fabulous singing voice. So happy to have her in the family. Wish I could have listened to her play and sing for a while longer. Loved it!
I heard from an old friend Sunday evening...something good MIGHT be on my horizon. Just gonna hide and watch...
I'm taking a few days off during the week of Easter. Have to play for the Lutherans on Thursday - they call it Maundy Thursday. The choir is singing a song about the Cross that I'm not so sure we're gonna be able to pull off so well. The service is very dramatic. They end the service in complete silence.
Then on Easter the choir is actually singing a very soulful, upbeat song that I really like a lot! Yay! I get so HAPPY when we do good music. We (the guitar guys and me) usually play and sing contemporary music as the folks are being seated in the morning. I play their traditional music during the core of the service. Then play and up-tempo chorus as the people exit. Prelude and Post-lude! Whoo Hoo! They're the best part of the service --for me anyway.
Hey! Does anyone have any good ideas for a male or female church solo? It's hard to find good solos these days because everything is more on the praise and worship side. If you have heard any good one, PLEASE PLEASE let me know. Thanks!
I hope you all have a fantastic week!
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
Awkward Moment
So on a recent date, we were driving away from a restaurant where we had just eaten, about to leave Boerne to head into San Antonio for some sight seeing.
He looked at my right hand and noticed a scar. He asked me how I had gotten the scar, so I told him that I was making peanut brittle for my church when I was 12 yrs old.
Then I told him about the scar on my left hand from dropping the power sander on it. OUCH!
As we approached the last intersection out of Boerne, he asked, "So, is there anything else you'd like to show me?"
Puzzled, I pretended to show him my surgery scars!
"No! NO!" he said. "I meant did you want to show me anything else while we are here in Boerne!"
I was laughing my head off. Almost fell out of the car!
Woke up this morning with a bad ear ache, sore throat, flu-like symptoms. El Sicko! Just my luck...a friend was planning to drive in for a visit. May have to put that off...grrrrrr.
Had to put it off for two weeks. Rats! But it's a good thing.
Sorry folks, but nuthin much is happening in my life...same old stuff. Teaching lessons, playing keys for the Lutherans, hanging with the family.
The Goodines are recording a new album! That's a good thing! Can't wait!
So no news is good news and all that...
I'll check in with y'all later!
Hugs!
Dora
SoCaliUPC
04-03-2008, 10:37 PM
Sorry folks, but nuthin much is happening in my life...same old stuff. Teaching lessons, playing keys for the Lutherans, hanging with the family.
The Goodines are recording a new album! That's a good thing! Can't wait!
So no news is good news and all that...
I'll check in with y'all later!
Hugs!
Dora
Dora needs to start posting her FINE SELF pictures up on here!!! Girl be looking GOOD!!!!
Ronzo
04-04-2008, 05:29 AM
Dora needs to start posting her FINE SELF pictures up on here!!! Girl be looking GOOD!!!!
Dora has always been looking good, dude.
Shara McKee
04-04-2008, 02:40 PM
HEY COUSIN!!! Yes, you are beautiful and talented!
HEY COUSIN!!! Yes, you are beautiful and talented!
Well HELLO!!! It's my FABULOUS cousin, Shara! How are things with you???
Love you so much! :bliss
Dora
Well HELLO THERE!!!
FINALLY something exciting happened! My friend, Paula, and her daughter, Taylor (age 17), decided on a whim to come up to visit me this past weekend. They packed up and drove up from North Houston and arrived at about 12 midnight. I was SO HAPPY to see them and we had a BLAST laughing and catching up on the latest until 2AM!
That was Friday night. Earlier that evening, I attended Mariza M.'s senior recital and sang in the choir. WOW! Mariza had a great recital! She wrote several of the songs that were performed and picked excellent music - Total Praise and I've Got the Victory. Her friend, Sergio, played violin and also played guitar and sang a traditional Mexican spiritual. Had the whole congregation on their feet! It was like Tejano/Salsa/Marimba Happy Jumpin' Music!!!!
Mom and Dad enjoy the music recitals, so they were there, too. We love living near Wayne and Elizabeth and love all the students we are privileged to meet at their choir parties, etc.
Lacy Schwein, who is an IBC music grad and long-time music assistant with Wayne and Eliz is going to St. John, New Brunswick Canada to be music minister in the same city as Vangie Inman. They are going LOVE her! She is awesome! We will miss her greatly, but I'm hoping to go up to visit her and Vangie. Whoo Hoo!!!
So - when I got home that evening from the recital, I was a crazy mad woman cleaning my house. Thank God it wasn't too bad in the first place.
I had a meeting scheduled on Saturday with a nice guy I met on a Christian website at Starbucks. Paula and Taylor were lovin' it - checking out his profile and pics online. Ha! So funny!
While I was meeting the nice guy, Paula took Taylor to meet her friends.
After my "date" I went to purchase birthday gifts for my niece, Larrilyn. Her b-day party started at 4PM with family and close friends out at the Hammer Ranch. Larrilyn was a happy b-day camper and got tons of gifts and cards and $$$!!!
Then Paula and I hooked back up and went to eat at one of my favorite places - The Dodging Duck. It's across the street from Cibolo Creek - lots of ducks and geese hang out on the water. The cars have to dodge the ducks and duck dodge the cars...therefore "The Dodging Duck."
On Sunday, I had to drive up to Comfort to play for 9AM children's church. The Elderly Organist was playing for the main service. I was exhausted so fell back to sleep as soon as I got back home.
Around 1PM Paula and I went to Main St in Boerne and walked around downtown visiting boutiques and antique shops. PERFECT WEATHER.
Paula had to leave to pick up Taylor and I had another family dinner planned for 4PM. Had a wonderful time visiting with my good friend!
Our family met with friends, Sherri and Dave Pitts and Claudia Allsinger at Ye Kendall Inn's Limestone Grill. We had the restaurant all to ourselves. The kids love it there because they can go out on the veranda and then down by the Creek to play while all of us grown ups enjoy the view and the great food!
Kerry and Geana and the kids are on vacation. They went to spend some time at the beach and then go on a long road trip for the next two weeks. They have all been working hard and deserve a nice break. From what I hear, Larrilyn broke out in hives from rolling in the grass and Kerri E. is now a lobster from too much sun on their first day out on the beach! Oh the joys!
On Monday, my dear mother helped me enter my 2007 receipts for taxes. Yes! I'm a terrible PROCRASTINATOR!!! Got all my totals together and e-mailed them to my Aunt B who used to be an IRS agent. She is miraculous!!!
So I'm back to teaching and singing and playing piano and working with the Lutherans and loving the Springtme weather! Our little choir and praise band will be singing and playing for a Comfort Choir Fest. All the choirs and special singing groups from the town of Comfort are gathering at the Episcopal Church to raise funds for the community rescue fund. Need to replenish funds and donations since we had a difficult summer last year. Much flooding during monsoons last year - several families lost their homes and needed shelter, etc. It's good to know our music will go toward helping in this effort.
Spring has sprung and hope springs eternal!
That's the latest! Hugs to one and ALL!
Dora
Theresa
04-16-2008, 10:12 AM
pictures, we want PICTURES
Just went through my closet and tried on clothes. Can't wear most of them.
Not much left.
Anybody need clothes??? I have some nice skirts and jackets that have hardly ever been worn.
Thing is...it gets expensive losing weight this fast. I'm kinda happy to be on a plateau right now. But can't go spending a bunch of money on new clothes because I have no idea how long I'll last at whatever size...
I'm size 10-12 at the moment...
Here is my latest pic:
Blubayou
04-16-2008, 02:33 PM
Dora- Good to hear from you! I have been missing your adventures. You are looking great!
Maple Leaf
04-16-2008, 08:55 PM
Well HELLO THERE!!!
. . .
Lacy Schwein, who is an IBC music grad and long-time music assistant with Wayne and Eliz is going to St. John, New Brunswick Canada to be music minister in the same city as Vangie Inman. They are going LOVE her! She is awesome! We will miss her greatly, but I'm hoping to go up to visit her and Vangie. Whoo Hoo!!!
. . .
Dora
I believe that she is actually going to Fredericton (http://www.sunsetchurch.com), New Brunswick, Canada.
I've already heard positive comments about her coming.
commonsense
04-16-2008, 11:54 PM
I believe that she is actually going to Fredericton (http://www.sunsetchurch.com), New Brunswick, Canada.
I've already heard positive comments about her coming.
One year my ABI roomates were from that part of Canada. Another year my roomate was from Manitoba. Oh, Canada!
I believe that she is actually going to Fredericton (http://www.sunsetchurch.com), New Brunswick, Canada.
I've already heard positive comments about her coming.
Oh! Thank you so much for the correction. Let me tell you...Lacy is top notch A-#1. She's amazingly talented and just a good person. I love her bunches!
By the way, I would dearly love to live and work in Canada. Especially if I could hang out with my good friend Vangie! That would be wonderful!!! Any other churches up there needing a music director???
Had to go to the dentist this morning to get prep'ed for new porcelain veneers.
I lost weight so fast and became protein depleted, so my gums receded leaving a gap between my old veneers and the gum line. So now I'm getting newer whiter prettier ones! Yay!
But...OUCH! After all the drilling and grinding and tugging and pulling trying to get the old ones off, my teeth and gums are so sore. And I'm still all wobbly from the anesthesia. Had to wait a little bit in office before trying to drive home.
The temporary teeth are sort of hideous. Just have bear it for two weeks.
Stay tuned for pics!
Ok! I went on a date with a guy from Austin and the poor guy was suffering terribly from allergies. We were going to drive up 16 to see the bluebonnets, but he was sneezing his head off. So we had to turn around and head back to Boerne.
I'm still wearing my temporary teeth and feeling self-conscious about smiling. Getting the new porcelain veneers on Monday. I'll post pics.
Kerry, Geana and the kids are back from vacation, but the kids are all EL SICKO. Kerri E. Has an ear infection and the other two are suffering from allergies and sniffles.
The Pollen is really bad around here. Cypress and Oak pollen blows around in the wind and just covers your whole body when you go outside. They say you should stay inside on high pollen days and change clothes after you've been outside for any length of time. Be sure you don't put the pollen-dusted clothes back in your closet or in with fresh clothes.
That's the tip for the day! You're welcome!
Was watching Regis and Kelly and they had a Sinus doctor on the show and he had them irrigate their noses right on TV! HILARIOUS! Here's little Kelly with saline dribbling out her nose in front of a live audience! Crazy!
I'm gonna go git me one of those nose irrigator thingies! Whoo Hoo! Looks like fun to me!
LaVonne
04-30-2008, 10:17 AM
Just went through my closet and tried on clothes. Can't wear most of them.
Not much left.
Anybody need clothes??? I have some nice skirts and jackets that have hardly ever been worn.
Thing is...it gets expensive losing weight this fast. I'm kinda happy to be on a plateau right now. But can't go spending a bunch of money on new clothes because I have no idea how long I'll last at whatever size...
I'm size 10-12 at the moment...
Here is my latest pic:
I'm a 12, so if you shrink out of those 12's...I'll take them! :)
BTW...you look great Dora, hope you feel as good as you look.
Ronzo
05-01-2008, 08:46 PM
Lookin' good, Dora!
Keep up the great work. I'm proud of you.
I'm a ways behind you in the weight loss department, but I'm down 17 since the end of February.
Thanks Ronzo! Appreciate your kind comments. CONGRATULATIONS on your own weight loss! That's Great!!!
Jazz woke up yesterday morning hurting. He could hardly move. He cried when I picked him up to help him off the bed. So sad...
I called the vet and they said I could give him baby aspirin. So I bought some and gave it to him. He proceeded to throw up about 20 times. Poor little guy.
I called the vet again and got some Rimadyl to help Jazz with the pain. He seems to be tolerating it better than the aspirin.
It's so sad when doggies get sick. Jazz had the sad eyes going. He was miserable.
Have to take Jazz in to see the vet on Monday since he's out of the office 'til then. Hope Jazz hasn't ruptured a disc or something. Lord Help!
Looks like I'll be working with Wayne and Elizabeth in the Fall at IBC. I'm so excited for the opportunity to work with them again. I have been so impressed with the college kids and the staff at IBC. Wonderful people! Life is incredible!
rgcraig
05-03-2008, 06:15 AM
Looks like I'll be working with Wayne and Elizabeth in the Fall at IBC. I'm so excited for the opportunity to work with them again. I have been so impressed with the college kids and the staff at IBC. Wonderful people! Life is incredible!
GREAT news!!!! I'm happy for you.
AmazingGrace
05-03-2008, 07:23 AM
Congrats Dora!!!!
tamor
05-03-2008, 07:40 AM
Looks like I'll be working with Wayne and Elizabeth in the Fall at IBC. I'm so excited for the opportunity to work with them again. I have been so impressed with the college kids and the staff at IBC. Wonderful people! Life is incredible!
Good for you, Dora! Will you be full-time at the school?
They're gonna be back in Adamsville the 14th of this month.
Good for you, Dora! Will you be full-time at the school?
They're gonna be back in Adamsville the 14th of this month.
No...not full-time. Just teaching piano and voice lessons a couple days a week to start.
Blubayou
05-03-2008, 10:53 AM
What a great opportunity!
A couple from the Lutheran church decided to introduce me to their friend. He is a big guy - 6'3" and 285 lbs.
He was in the airforce and got shot down in a helicopter two different times in Somalia. He was in one of the two helicopters shot down in the movie "Black Hawk Down." He suffered gun shot wounds and serious back injuries.
Before going in to the military he play four games for the Houston Oilers. During that fourth game he intercepted the ball and got his legs wiped out from under him, flew up in the air and came down on his neck. So that was the end of that.
He's a really nice guy. Played drums for a Pentecostal church in his younger years. Was raised on a farm in Montana.
But...he spent some time in East Texas and has picked up the lingo.
Pants/blue jeans/slacks are "britches." He is going on a motorcycle trip with his brother this weekend and was looking for some waterproof "riding britches."
We went out to eat the other night, and he wanted to take me to the Texas Roadhouse where they serve peanuts and you just shuck the shells to the floor! But it was absolutely packed, so we went to Carraba's.
We had intended to go to a movie, but everything was sold out. So we went to the Bass Pro shop. That was my idea. I had never entered the hallowed halls of a Bass Pro Shop in all my days. But I figured it was his happy place and I was curious. So in we went.
WOW! I've never seen such a HUGE GIGANTIC MAN-DEN! It was awesome.
He took me directly to the big fish aquarium where a humongous catfish loaped along twitching his whiskers at us. My friend commented that we could make quite the fish fry out of a fish "like kat der." (interpretation - like that there)
We looked up on the rocks with the water cascading down into the aquarium and saw a fake rattlesnake coiled up and ready to strike. "Lookit! Thars a rattler!"
Then we went over the to "ridin' britches section." They were over $200 a pop. He said, "Them's some 'spensive ridin' britches!"
After browsing through the motorcycle riding gear, we mosied over to fishing tackle section. We found an array of items used to "make yer own fishin' fly, like kat der."
The conversation included more phrases like "yunder ov-ere" - meaning yonder over there. And the rattler was "up-ere" - meaning up there. And at Carraba's we ordered Chicken Marsala which was interpreted "yard-bird in mushrooms and wine sauce." It was too much for me to eat all at once, so we got the "yard-bird" to go!
Well, I had a nice time but have to say I don't think he's "the one." The adventure continues...
Cindy
05-20-2008, 09:00 AM
I don't know any East Texans that talk like that. He must be an actor.
LaVonne
05-20-2008, 09:14 AM
A couple from the Lutheran church decided to introduce me to their friend. He is a big guy - 6'3" and 285 lbs.
He was in the airforce and got shot down in a helicopter two different times in Somalia. He was in one of the two helicopters shot down in the movie "Black Hawk Down." He suffered gun shot wounds and serious back injuries.
Before going in to the military he play four games for the Houston Oilers. During that fourth game he intercepted the ball and got his legs wiped out from under him, flew up in the air and came down on his neck. So that was the end of that.
He's a really nice guy. Played drums for a Pentecostal church in his younger years. Was raised on a farm in Montana.
But...he spent some time in East Texas and has picked up the lingo.
Pants/blue jeans/slacks are "britches." He is going on a motorcycle trip with his brother this weekend and was looking for some waterproof "riding britches."
We went out to eat the other night, and he wanted to take me to the Texas Roadhouse where they serve peanuts and you just shuck the shells to the floor! But it was absolutely packed, so we went to Carraba's.
We had intended to go to a movie, but everything was sold out. So we went to the Bass Pro shop. That was my idea. I had never entered the hallowed halls of a Bass Pro Shop in all my days. But I figured it was his happy place and I was curious. So in we went.
WOW! I've never seen such a HUGE GIGANTIC MAN-DEN! It was awesome.
He took me directly to the big fish aquarium where a humongous catfish loaped along twitching his whiskers at us. My friend commented that we could make quite the fish fry out of a fish "like kat der." (interpretation - like that there)
We looked up on the rocks with the water cascading down into the aquarium and saw a fake rattlesnake coiled up and ready to strike. "Lookit! Thars a rattler!"
Then we went over the to "ridin' britches section." They were over $200 a pop. He said, "Them's some 'spensive ridin' britches!"
After browsing through the motorcycle riding gear, we mosied over to fishing tackle section. We found an array of items used to "make yer own fishin' fly, like kat der."
The conversation included more phrases like "yunder ov-ere" - meaning yonder over there. And the rattler was "up-ere" - meaning up there. And at Carraba's we ordered Chicken Marsala which was interpreted "yard-bird in mushrooms and wine sauce." It was too much for me to eat all at once, so we got the "yard-bird" to go!
Well, I had a nice time but have to say I don't think he's "the one." The adventure continues...
At least he was a nice guy and you had fun! ;)
I don't know any East Texans that talk like that. He must be an actor.
Maybe he picked it up in Montana...
My summer so far has been great! Things are going well with my music studio, thank God! I'm always worried about how things will go during the summer because so many students take the summer off for vacations, etc. But things are steady as she goes and I'm relieved.
I'm still doing the music at Immanuel Lutheran in Comfort. My dad has been playing bass for our Wednesday evening Contemporary Worship service. He's doing a fantastic job! So happy he's using that bass and amp we gave him for Christmas! Mom is involved with Immanuel's Quilting group. They put the quilts together and send them to needy families all over the world. The ladies love mom and she is really enjoying hanging out with them. They are tons of fun! Spicy southern steel magnolias! Gotta love 'em!
Pastor Bob and Marianne (his wife) are on a three-week vacation. So Chad (guitarist and youth pastor) and I have been keeping things going on Weds. nights. We don't seem to be as eloquent (or long-winded) as Pastor Bob, so the folks are sort of shocked when the service is over in 35 to 45 minutes instead of an hour. Ha!
My brother and parents just sold their property in Comfort and are moving back to Boerne to be closer to the church - Boerne UPC. I'm excited because they will live closer to me, so hopefully we can get together more often. Also, we're happy to welcome a new couple who are attending BUPC. They have already been a huge encouragement to my brother and to all of us!
Kerry has decided to move the mid-week service to Thursdays so Mom and Dad can still attend with us at Immanuel on Wednesdays. I teach music lessons at BUPC on Thursdays, so I'll go from teaching to attending Kerry's Bible Study and maybe help with music - we'll see how it all goes.
The Goodines have been touring and recording their new album with Lari Goss and Geron Davis. I'm excited to hear the final project! They went to Europe to do a choir clinic for a huge choir there. They sent pics - check out their website. Looking forward to visiting with them when they get home. We have a complete BLAST when we get together and play Taboo. That game brings out the Wild and Crazy in me!
I've been on a songwriting kick. Seems like the strangest things inspire a really good song. My writing skills tend to be at their best when I'm in the depths of despair. LOL But I'm NOT in the depths at the moment, so I'll let you be the judge of whether or not my songs are HITS or DUDS. Need to start recording this stuff and get it posted on a myspace page. I'll get right on that for ya!
I'm studying Christian Apologetics and have been reading a book called Skeptics Answered by D. James Kennedy. I'm convinced that there is no more powerful witness than living a consistent life showing Christ-centered love and compassion to others. Actively reaching out to hurting souls in your community will open doors to hungry hearts. I'm especially interested in learning how to effectively present the Christian message to Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, etc. Reading, reading, reading....
As some of you may know, I was "hibernating" for about a year - from February 2007 to February 2008. I guess I needed some time to regroup after the Big-D. I finally introduced myself to my apartment neighbors - wrote a nice little note to each one, with my name and phone number in case they ever wanted to chat. It really ROTS that it took me so long to do that. So, yesterday the lady across the hall taped a note to my door and said she appreciated my card and would love to hang out at the pool or go to a movie... Would be so nice to have some good girl friends right next door.
In January, I had stomach surgery and have since lost about 63 pounds. Whoo Hoo! I feel great! I'm taking tennis lessons and my coach says I missed my calling as a ball girl! Ha! I can pick up about twenty balls at once, stuffed in my pockets and rolled up in my shirt. My backhand is so much better now. Yay!
I'm planning to go back to college in the Fall to study Speech Language Pathology. Sending transcripts and taking entrance exams at Our Lady of the Lake in San Antonio. Please keep me in your prayers on this...
Well, that's the latest in my life. Thank you for caring... It would be wonderful to hear from you. Please let me know what's up in your life. Make contact! I know you're out there!
Love and Hugs!
Dora
Here's a recent pic. I haven't been losing much lately...but hoping with the tennis the weight loss will kick in again.
Yesterday, we moved mom and daddy to their new place at Top of the Hill RV Resort. It is a nice place and they have a beautiful hill country view. There is a nice pool and hot tub and club house with a kitchen and work-out room, internet access, laundry room, nice showers and a large meeting room.
They have nice cabins available for rent, too. Hoping the Hammer family will come up to visit for Thanksgiving.
SoCaliUPC
07-01-2008, 08:39 PM
Dora...I am really glad to hear about everything going well for you. There is no one who deserves better!
timlan2057
07-10-2008, 11:34 PM
Here's a recent pic. I haven't been losing much lately...but hoping with the tennis the weight loss will kick in again.
Yesterday, we moved mom and daddy to their new place at Top of the Hill RV Resort. It is a nice place and they have a beautiful hill country view. There is a nice pool and hot tub and club house with a kitchen and work-out room, internet access, laundry room, nice showers and a large meeting room.
They have nice cabins available for rent, too. Hoping the Hammer family will come up to visit for Thanksgiving.
Yow.
Hello, Your Hotness.
Hey! Sorry I haven't been keeping y'all posted as often as I used to. Things have been busy with teaching lessons and church music, etc.
I visited Austin two weekends ago and stayed the night with my cousin, Connie, at her beautiful home on Lake Travis. I drove in to go to church with her at Kenneth Philips' church. Wow! Wanda Philips looks exactly the same as ever. Big UPC hairdo. I was surprised at how many people still have the UPC look. The music was great. I got to see quite a few people I knew from back in the day at Texas Camp in Lufkin.
We went out to eat with Connie's brother, Paul, and his family at Chili's. I've known them for so many years. Neat to see their kids all grown up. They go to K. Phillips's church and still hold the UPC standard as do many in that church.
Connie usually goes to Randy's church since it's near her house. If I lived in Austin, I'd go to Randy's church. I love to watch his TV broadcast.
Also, got to visit with my old friend, Mike Hersh, who used to be our favorite sound engineer for our Christian Life College Mass Choir CD's. Spent many an hour at the studio in Paolo Alto. He's the head engineer for their TV broadcasts and for their recording studio. Mike recently suffered a major heart attack, but is recovery nicely. It was good to see him.
This last weekend I went to Houston for a baseball tournament. My friend coaches a team and they made it to the semi-finals. I got to see My Aunt Lavelle, Shara and Rob McKee and their girls. Also, visited with my good friends Paula and Krea Currie. While the ball games were going on, I went shopping at the Galleria. Got me some SHOES!!!
Yesterday, I got the exciting news that I have been accepted into the Speech Language Pathology program at Our Lady Of the Lake University - San Antonio. I'm getting a partial scholarship, a Pell Grant and the rest will be covered with student loans. I go in on Wednesday next week to get registered. So excited!!! School starts August 25th! Whoo Hoo! I'll be 48 yrs old when I graduate. Ha! I a late bloomer! Oh well! Better late than never. Please pray for me! I'm gonna need it.
We're celebrating my nephew's birthday next Saturday. He is into tornados, BIG TIME! He's going to be FOUR years old and he's the cutest kid on the planet!
Hope and pray all is well with you and yours! Keep in touch!
Love ya! HUGS!
Dora
I am now registered for 12 credit hours. I'm taking College Algebra I, English Comp, Sociology, Social Justice (Religious Studies). Thought I'd be conservative with the study load my first semester so I can get into the swing of things.
The Lutherans had a big BBQ fundraiser in the city park this Saturday. We had HUGE black clouds overhead and at 4PM - about the time we were loading up our equipment - there came a gully washer. It just POURED BUCKETS for about 45 minutes. Then it cleared up and the sun came out. Yay! Our praise band played for 2 1/2 hours.
They held a silent auction and and real live auction with a great auctioneer! They raised $17,000! Great! It goes toward funding several Lutheren community services including the Mobile Free Clinic that sets up in the fellowship hall every other Tuesday.
It was FUN! Dad played the bass and sang "He Looked Beyond My Faults And Saw My Need." He did a great job. Sounds like Bing Crosby or Dean Martin.
I'll leave you with this thought for the day:
There is a balm in Gilead and it's name is Boudreaux's Buttpaste!!!
Question for the day:
Why don't male athletes shave their armpits???
Michael Phelps
08-17-2008, 07:19 PM
Question for the day:
Why don't male athletes shave their armpits???
Because to do so would be to violate nature. God gave us armpit hair to show our manliness. Any man who shaves his pits is on a slippery slope.
Hope this helps.
Bryan
08-17-2008, 07:38 PM
Because to do so would be to violate nature. God gave us armpit hair to show our manliness. Any man who shaves his pits is on a slippery slope.
Hope this helps.
Your namesake shaves his!
Michael Phelps
08-17-2008, 07:39 PM
Your namesake shaves his!
And he's not Apostolic either, is he?????????
THank you, your honor, I REST MY CASE.
It's raining BUCKETS here in Boerne. We really need the rain, so I'm loving it! Thank goodness for tropical storms. They've been spawning thunderstorms in our area. Not that I'm happy about their destruction traits, but hurricanes and tropical storms send LOTS of rain our way and our ground is parched up here. Love seeing the creeks, streams and rivers gushing!
The second weekend of September, I'm going down to Florida to do a vocal workshop for a Praise Team. Their musicians are great, but they need specific help with their vocals. So I'm going to work with them on strengthening their sound using projection techniques. Also, going to help them with harmonizing and working with Praise Leader on adlibbing in a way that encourages congregation participation and worship.
Preparing handouts with information on vocal function and exercises to help strengthen the voice and to help them zero in on perfect pitch, etc. Also, going to work with them on BLEND and synchronizing vocal licks, etc.
I'm really really excited! Haven't traveled out of Texas since General Conference in 2005. Please pray all goes well and that our efforts are anointed.
Mr. Steinway
08-18-2008, 10:26 AM
Dora, You may have already mentioned this, but I can tell that you've lost a lot of weight since your operation. Have you had any complications?
Dora, You may have already mentioned this, but I can tell that you've lost a lot of weight since your operation. Have you had any complications?
Haven't had any complications to speak of. I catch myself feeling weak, but just need to do a protein shake and that fixes that. I'm feeling GREAT! Thanks for asking.
Woke up feeling tired. Took Jazz out for his morning walk. Made some strong coffee, but feeling like crawling back in bed. It rained all night long. Love to hear the rain pouring down. It's a soothing sound. We have been in drought conditions for quite a while, so the rain is definitely welcome.
I signed up a new student yesterday. He is 12 yrs old and plays guitar. He wants to learn to sing, but I'm afraid it's gonna be a tough row to hoe. He got out his guitar and sang "Hey! Good Lookin" so off key! It was like nails on the chalkboard.
So I worked with him to see if he could match pitch at all. I was able to match low to medium pitches, but higher notes he couldn't hear. I think I can work with him on intervals and use familiar melodies to help him improve. But he's going to have to work hard. Cute kid.
Ok...need to give Jazz a bath and get myself up and running.
Have a nice day with Jesus, everybody!!!
Dora
Blubayou
08-19-2008, 10:29 AM
By the way, Dora, it is good to see you back posting. I have missed you.
Cindy
08-19-2008, 11:22 AM
Love your posts Dora, and hoping for continuing great results for you. God bless you.
Question for the day:
Why don't male athletes shave their armpits???
uhhh, I do, but it's not like something I keep up real consistantly. Like once every 2 weeks or 1 month or so.
uhhh, I do, but it's not like something I keep up real consistantly. Like once every 2 weeks or 1 month or so.
Seems like shaving the pits would be more hygienic and more comfortable.
Just a thought. Ha!
Seems like shaving the pits would be more hygienic and more comfortable.
Just a thought. Ha!
It wasn't comfortable the first 2 or 3 times haha. But that's any "new" area that isn't used to be shaved.
It wasn't comfortable the first 2 or 3 times haha. But that's any "new" area that isn't used to be shaved.
HA!!! Thanks for sharing!
Your welcome -ha. How comes to fitness/working out?
Your welcome -ha. How comes to fitness/working out?
I'm doing better with the treadmill thing. My dad mounted a TV on the wall at eye level in front of the dreaded treadmill. Hopefully watching TV will help pass the time while I'm on the Hamster Wheel (that's what I call the Treadmill).
I still think my treading should generate electricity or something. Think I could get some carbon offset points for every minute I tread.
Also, I have devised a way to strap my laptop to the LED Display panel of the Hamster Wheel/Treadmill. It's sort of an aerobic practice in itself trying to type and tread at the same time. Challenging!
I prefer to play - volleyball or tennis - but it's hard to find a partner. It really ROTS! I have so much fun playing and getting a workout at the same time. Would like to sign up for Fall tennis lessons. Have to see if it's in the budget and if I have enough time.
We're still experiencing thunderstorms. It's so dark outside. Makes for a good snuggling-up-with-the-poodle-on-the-couch day.
School starts on Monday! I'm kind of nervous. Need to go up to campus and find my classrooms. I impulsively got a nice HD PDA at the university bookstore. I haven't unwrapped it yet because I'm thinking I need to return it. I really need something to help me stay on track with my crazy schedule. Wonder if an iPhone would be a better option???
Okay...those are my musings for the day. Hope you all have a wonderful day with Jesus! Bless you!
Hugs!
Dora
Thank God it's FRIDAY! Hallelujah! PTL! ...and all that!
Oh yes indeed.. Man it's been a busy week for me, sadly the weekend will be busy in other ways, but atleast they aren't work related :)
I went up to visit my cousin, Connie, again in Austin this Sunday. Drove up in the morning and met her at Randy Philips's church. They have about 800 members and are meeting in a high school auditorium for now. They have purchased property and are about to launch a building program. I really enjoyed the music and Randy did a great job treaching (teaching/preaching). He's so down to earth and personable.
Well, Connie and I were having a great time hanging out so I decided to stay the night with her. Her hubby was gone on a fishing trip and she was all alone and I was too tired to drive home that night...yahdayahda...
So this morning I left Austin at 8AM. Got a little turned around on my driving directions and wound up running late. So I was stressed out/anxious about being late to class on the first day at Our Lady of the Lake University.
I finally made it to IH-10 and turned on to the entrance ramp and got clipped by a passing car that I didn't see coming. My van started turning then fell over on the driver's side. I felt like I was having an out-of-body experience. One second I was driving right-side up and the next I was sideways with my arm scraping along the pavement. I thought, "Need to lift my arm up."
I had to have 8 stitches. My left arm is about a 6 inch gash of hamburger meat around my elbow. Also had to have one stitch on my hand. Dear Lord, it hurt so bad while they were cleaning it. Had a tetinus shot and a shot of morphine. Still feeling fuzzy...
I need to go take a shower and wash all the glass splinters off. Some glass got embedded in my head. Not bad though. So happy no hair was scraped off.
This could have been the end for me, but God was watching over me. Thank you, Jesus!
steve p
08-25-2008, 02:46 PM
Sorry to hear of your accident. Glad your gona be ok!!
Blessings
Car Accident - Oops! My BAD
On Sunday (8/24/08), I had the day off from playing for the Lutherans, so I decided to go visit my cousin, Connie, in Austin. Connie teaches 9th grade English and I'm taking classes at OLLU/San Antonio starting Monday, Aug. 25th. We always have such a great time visiting.
I drove up in the morning and met her at Randy Philips's church for the 11am service. They have about 800 members and are meeting in a high school auditorium for now. They have purchased property and are about to launch a building program. I really enjoyed the music and Randy did a great job "treaching" (teaching/preaching). He's so down to earth and personable.
My original plan was to stay and visit until about 7pm then drive home. Probably would have been the smarter thing to do, but I wanted to stay and just enjoy the evening - just us girls having a fun day before school starts. Figured I could definitely make it back in time for my 10:30am class.
Monday morning arrived and I left Austin at 8AM. Got a little turned around on my driving directions and wound up running late. I was so upset that I was going to be late to class on the first day. Horrible!
When I reached IH-10E, I had finally made it to the last leg of my journey in the seemingly deserted little town of Comfort. I yielded at the crossing, looked both ways then proceded across two lanes to enter the freeway ramp. Well, I missed seeing a little red car and he hit the rear passenger's side of my van at about 45 mph.
My van started spinning then fell over on the driver's side, smashing all the glass when it hit the pavement. Felt like I was having an out-of-body experience. One second I was driving right-side up and the next I was sideways with my arm scraping along the pavement.
The van came to a stop on the grassy hill of the median. I looked down and found my cell phone and dialed 911. Before they could answer, I heard a police officer asking me if I was alright. Amazing!
I immediately called mom and dad to let them I was ok, but probably wouldn't make it to school and that I needed them to come take me to Urgent Care. I didn't know exactly how badly I was damaged.
The engine was still running, so I rolled down the passenger's side window, then turned it off. With the help of the police officer, I sort of "rock climbed" my way out of the van. I was wearing the cutest blood-spattered sunflower yellow 4" wedge-heeled shoes you've ever seen. Had to hike through the weeds over to the ambulance that had magically arrived.
OMG! It must have been 90 degrees outside, but I was trembling with teeth chattering as if I were standing nekkid in a blizzard. My arm had sprayed blood all over my little grey dress from Target (Tar-zhjay!). I was a MESS! Had some glass splinters implanted in my scalp and my skin was glistening all over with tiny glass fragments.
The nice EMS people wrapped my wounds and took my vitals and advised me to get my rear on down to the emergency room ASAP. I'm uninsured so didn't want to take the expensive ambulance ride. About 15 minutes later, Mom and Dad arrived to look things over and take me to Urgent Care.
My left arm has about a 6 inch gash of hamburger meat around the elbow. That took 7 stitches. Also had to have one stitch on my hand. Dear Lord! The cleaning process was so painful. Was wishing they had laughing gas. Received a tetinus shot and a shot of morphine. Nice fuzzy feeling from the Morphine. So grateful for DRUGS!
As I write this, it is early Tuesday morning. I tried to sleep from 9pm to 12 midnght, but the pain meds were wearing off. (Yes! I'm whining.) Ow! Ow! Ow! Think I need to have the left hand X-rayed because the third knuckle is swollen 3 times normal and hurts like crazy. I'm discovering glass particles in odd places like inside my ears, nose and eye-lids. Have to be careful not to rub.
I'm so thankful for God's caring hand on my life. I know His angels were watching over me. So glad I'm having a birthday on Sept. 1st and not a funeral!!!
Thanks for reading!
Hugs!
Dora
I had a rough night. The Vicodin wasn't quite strong enough to cut the pain. Woke up several times.
Dad picked me up at 9AM this morning to take me to class at OLLU - 30 minute drive.
Feeling very sore like someone beat me with a baseball bat.
I made it to my Sociology class. The professor, Dr. Moon, is from South Korea and has a strong Asian accent- difficult to understand. With his experience and ethnicity, I think he'll be able to give us a unique perspective on Sociology, so I'm gonna stick with it. Heard several students say they were going to drop the class immediately. Oh well, I think it will be interesting and fairly easy to make a good grade.
Today he went over the syllabus and introduced the subject and gave us a reading assignment for discussion and a quiz on Thursday.
Then I went to the IT Help Center to get set up for my online class: Social Justice & Christianity. Can't wait to dig in to this one. OLLU suffered a huge fire over the summer due to arson. So the classrooms and labs have been switched around.
I went to 3 different buildings before I found the IT Help Center. After hobbling around in the scorching heat, I was feeling nauseated. Think the techie girl thought I was on drugs or something. (Vicodin will do that to ya!) Anyway, she got me all fixed up with a student password and showed me how to access my online class. It's a neat system!
On the way home, I the meds started wearing off and I was feeling horrible. Decided I would wait until tomorrow to get back to teaching. Had to call my students and let them know I couldn't teach today. They were all very understanding. I love my students! They're really great people!
It's raining buckets here...love it!
Going to start working on my reading homework.
Hope you have a good day!
Hugs!
Dora
Yesterday my parents helped me get a blue RAV4. It's a 2008 and mom talked 'em down $1500.00. She's amazing! I'm so excited to have a nice vehicle, but not so excited about having to make monthly payments. Oh well...gotta do what I've gotta do.
At church this morning, Pastor Bob let folks know I was in an accident and I stood and sort of displayed my bandaged arm like the models do on the Price Is Right. That got a good laugh. Such sweet people. Got lots of hugs today. I needed that.
Went to eat with Mom, Dad and Kerry for my birthday. Geana made me a batch of her amazing cookies. They are so yummy! A sure cure for what ails ya!
I was working writing a paper for my Social Justice & Christianity class. Decided I needed to a little distraction for a minute or so. Need to get back at it. The assignment is due Sept. 2nd. Don't want to have to do homework tomorrow.
Hope you all have a delightful Labor Day!
Hugs!
Dora
Thanks for the birthday message from AFF.
I've been cleaning my apartment, watching hurricane news and doing homework.
WHOO HOO! Hot times in TEXAS!!! Ha!
Hugs!
Dora
rgcraig
09-01-2008, 01:58 PM
Happy Birthday Dora!
Wish it was on the calendar here we'd known in time to wish you a birthy hapday!
I received an e-mail from AFF this morning wishing me a Happy Birthday. I love ALL Y'ALL wonderful people!!!
Hugs!
Dora
Checking to see if my brazen commercialism signature is posting....
YAYYYY! There it IS!!!
I use this website to order my skincare products because I have a hard time finding Pevonia in department stores or at salons. It really works for my sensitive skin and I enjoy the convenience of mail order. Thanks for putting up with this commercial.
Thought it was so funny on this website when I found they have a company that sells what I used to sell as "The Cloth" as a cosmetic cleanser for a decent price. It's a microfiber Mitt sold as a luxury item. I might be shooting myself in the foot here, but you can get the same thing at AutoZone and Walmart and Home Depot. Just ask them for a package of 20 microfiber cloths and you can use some on your face and some for doing your windows and some for getting oil stains out of your clothes and some for buffing up your car!
Ok! I'm gonna RAZ RHONI!
To celebrate my birthday, my boyfriend came down to visit me and brought me a gorgeous bouquet of flowers! Pink and white stargazers and yellow lilies and huge red roses! He stopped by HEB and picked up huge shrimpies and brought them to my place and cooked them up for me. Then we had a big make-out session on the couch! Whoo Hoo! He's a great kisser and my toes were curling from the THRILL of it all! LOLOLOLOL
TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI
JUST KIDDING! (THIS HAPPENED IN MY DREAMS! HAAAA!!!)
Rhoni
09-06-2008, 10:22 AM
Ok! I'm gonna RAZ RHONI!
To celebrate my birthday, my boyfriend came down to visit me and brought me a gorgeous bouquet of flowers! Pink and white stargazers and yellow lilies and huge red roses! He stopped by HEB and picked up huge shrimpies and brought them to my place and cooked them up for me. Then we had a big make-out session on the couch! Whoo Hoo! He's a great kisser and my toes were curling from the THRILL of it all! LOLOLOLOL
TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI TMI
JUST KIDDING! (THIS HAPPENED IN MY DREAMS! HAAAA!!!)
Dora,
Don't do that...it makes me hungry for those sweet and passionate kisses...I have almost forgot but not quite:roseglasses
BTW...girl you look so good I bet you have men eating out of your hand right now...enjoy the romance and fun...date around:friend
Dora,
Don't do that...it makes me hungry for those sweet and passionate kisses...I have almost forgot but not quite:roseglasses
BTW...girl you look so good I bet you have men eating out of your hand right now...enjoy the romance and fun...date around:friend
No "dating around" for me. Hate the rat race of it all.
Singing..."One guy at a time, Sweet Jesus! That's all I'm askin' from You!"
Rhoni, I hope you get some kissing action sometime soon! Ha!
Rhoni
09-06-2008, 12:00 PM
No "dating around" for me. Hate the rat race of it all.
Singing..."One guy at a time, Sweet Jesus! That's all I'm askin' from You!"
Rhoni, I hope you get some kissing action sometime soon! Ha!
I'm :singright there with you girl. Actually...right now the last thing I need is a good kiss because it just calls for another one, another one...and you know:friend
*hugs*
Rhoni
I've been up watching the hurricane coverage since 7pm. Looks pretty bad. They have shown many pics of my old stompin' grounds i.e. Seabrook and Kemah. Oh! My crazy ex called to let me know that he is going to ride out the storm on his boat at the Kemah Boardwalk. He'll probably wind up in the employee parking lot of the NASA space center. God help him...
My cousin, Stephen High, has been evacuated along with his parents, Uncle Dave and Aunt Billye. I've heard from a few of my friends and they are reporting various degrees of really bad weather. I'm really worried about conditions in Texas City where the Herrins live. I hope they evacuated and I hope their homes and their new church survive with minimal damage. Please pray for our Gulf Coast friends.
Michael Phelps
09-13-2008, 09:20 AM
I've been up watching the hurricane coverage since 7pm. Looks pretty bad. They have shown many pics of my old stompin' grounds i.e. Seabrook and Kemah. Oh! My crazy ex called to let me know that he is going to ride out the storm on his boat at the Kemah Boardwalk. He'll probably wind up in the employee parking lot of the NASA space center. God help him...
My cousin, Stephen High, has been evacuated along with his parents, Uncle Dave and Aunt Billye. I've heard from a few of my friends and they are reporting various degrees of really bad weather. I'm really worried about conditions in Texas City where the Herrins live. I hope they evacuated and I hope their homes and their new church survive with minimal damage. Please pray for our Gulf Coast friends.
I have been watching also, Dora, as you know I still have family in Houston. Two weeks ago it was Gustav threatening my wife's family in Louisiana, this weekend it's Ike. So, we'll watch some football today, but also wind up checking back and forth on the hurricane.
Dora, how far are you and my folks from the coast?
We're less than 300 miles from Galveston, but Corpus Christi is about 200 miles from us. If Ike had come in to Corpus, we would have experienced high winds and rain. Thankfully, we were spared this time.
However, I still have many family members and friends who are having to deal with power outages, etc.
I used to live in Seabrook and Kemah. The little green house that used to be my g-parents' home in Seabrook where I lived for 3 years is probably either under 6 feet of water or has been reduced to rubble and is laying all over hwy 146.
Please keep our friends and family who live on the Gulf Coast in your prayers. It's a tough situation. So thankful that folks seem to have heeded evacuation warnings and the loss of life was minimal.
Rhoni
09-14-2008, 07:21 AM
We're less than 300 miles from Galveston, but Corpus Christi is about 200 miles from us. If Ike had come in to Corpus, we would have experienced high winds and rain. Thankfully, we were spared this time.
However, I still have many family members and friends who are having to deal with power outages, etc.
I used to live in Seabrook and Kemah. The little green house that used to be my g-parents' home in Seabrook where I lived for 3 years is probably either under 6 feet of water or has been reduced to rubble and is laying all over hwy 146.
Please keep our friends and family who live on the Gulf Coast in your prayers. It's a tough situation. So thankful that folks seem to have heeded evacuation warnings and the loss of life was minimal.
Dora,
Glad to hear that your family and yourself are safe :friend. Keep us updated as to what is going on there.
Blessings, Rhoni
I'm completely sleep deprived. I've been running on about 4 hours of sleep a night trying to keep up with all my homework projects. Ugh!
So I got the stitches taken out of my left arm about two weeks ago. Then I came down with a plague - bad sinus infection that became bronchitis. Went through three different kinds of antibiotics before the meds finally kicked the crud.
Algebra is killin' me! I flunked one of my tests and cried like a big baby. How humiliating. So I had a pow-wow with my instructor and he said not to worry about one test. He'll be dropping the lowest grade. At our meeting, he gave me an evaluation test and said I did well on it. Said I just needed to get more practice doing the problems. So I've been LIVING for Algebra for the last week or so.
So, Thursday I was on my way to school and got rearended by an uninsured motorist. I was at an intersection when the light turned green I proceeded about half a car length into the intersection when I heard the sirens of a firetruck. I slammed on the breaks just as the firetruck whizzed through the intersection. The lady behind me was following too close and slammed into my rear bumper. GRRRrrrRRrrrrRrrrrRrrrrrr
I was seriously annoyed 1) because my new RAV4 was damaged, 2) because I was going to be late for my Sociology class and needed to take a Quiz, 3) because of the hassle of it all. GGGGrrrrrRRRRrrrrrrrrrrrRRRr
So we exchanged information and I dashed off to class. My Korean instructor was kind enough to give me a few extra minutes to finish my quiz. I think I did well on it despite the circumstances.
Today I met with a police officer to file a report of the accident for my insurance company. I'll have to put my little RAV4 in the car hospital for a few days to straighten out the bumper. But I'm happy that I didn't get hurt and that the damage to my vehicle is pretty minor. Thank God for small favors.
I'm ready for things to get back to some semblance of normalcy! That's all I want...just a few weeks of NORMAL!
nahkoe
10-04-2008, 07:48 AM
Algebra is killin' me! I flunked one of my tests and cried like a big baby. How humiliating. So I had a pow-wow with my instructor and he said not to worry about one test. He'll be dropping the lowest grade. At our meeting, he gave me an evaluation test and said I did well on it. Said I just needed to get more practice doing the problems. So I've been LIVING for Algebra for the last week or so.
Let me know if I can help. :dance I love tutoring Algebra, and my students have all said I'm good at it. I know distance isn't probably the easiest, but I know of some resources too that might help if you get stuck.
Your instructor is probably right that you just need practice though. Sometimes repetition is the only thing that'll help.
Here is a description of my instructors if you're interested.
> I just took my Social Justice test. It's an online course and the
instructor is "an openly gay" Catholic theologian. She has her Doctorate of
Divinity and I don't think she got hers for $200 like some people we know. She's a true intellectual and a socialist liberal (is that redundant or
what?). The first article we had to read and comment on was regarding allowing
gays in the priesthood. Of course, she has a problem with referring to God as a
male. She says we should refer to God as "The Deity" or when we write we should try mixing it up by occasionally referring to God as "She" or "Her." She DEFINITELY has a problem with wealthy, heterosexual, white men as authority figures. Amazing all these
details I'm gleaning from her writings. I've never met her in person...should
stop by her office on campus one of these days.
>
> My Sociology teacher is Dr. Moon. He's from South Korea and has a strong
Asian accent. He can hardly complete a sentence and it makes it quite difficult
to obtain knowledge of the subject from his lectures. But I seat myself right in
front of him on the front row and try very hard to understand him. He has an
endearing naive quality and compares his native Korean culture with U.S.
culture. Wow! Interesting stuff. I think I would have a difficult time
adjusting in his country. I'm actually enjoying the class and find the course content fascinating.
>
> My Algebra teacher is ex-military and he ain't gonna hand out any freebies.
He barely gives us enough information during class time to prepare for tests.
His methodology is to give a list of Algebraic topics and says go to the library or
get some instruction online or go to the on-campus tutoring office to learn the
material. I've been using Algebra Workbook for Dummies and it's working for
me. I also like You Tube math videos. It helps to see an instructor work the
problems on the board.
>
> English is a breeze class for me, but the grade is based on attendance, so I'm
really trying to never miss a class. I MUST get at least a 2.75 gpa this
semester in order to keep my financial aid and scholarship for next semester.
Also, the 2.75 gpa is a requirement for qualifying for the communication
disorders program. So I'm working my head off trying do well in all my
classes. I'm a teeny bit stressed.
Almost fell asleep sitting at the piano in church this morning. The sermon was about Paul's conversion on the way to Damascus. We had communion this morning as we do every other Sunday. The ladies bake flat cakes of communion bread. It's a special recipe and tastes so good with the red wine. I take the piece of bread and hold it in my mouth, then take the tiny cup of red wine and let it soak together. It's a wonderful combination of flavors! I always have to hurry and gulp it down so I can sing the communion song with the congregation.
I have to do Algebra homework the rest of the day. Going to park myself at my dining room table, watch youtube snippets about plotting 7 points of a parabola, and work as many problems as I can to get ready for the next test. Please pray for my brain!!!
Hugs to one and all!
Your friend,
Dora
nahkoe
10-05-2008, 11:13 AM
Wow...that sounds like quite an interesting group of instructors! lol
I don't like your math prof. There, I said it. lol I'm a math snob. I don't like his teaching style at all. Too many students are going to slide right through the cracks with that style. I'm glad you're keeping up though, that's great. :)
Good luck with the parabolas! They took me awhile to really get, but I made it. :) You can do it too, I'm sure of it. :)
Here is a description of my instructors if you're interested.
> I just took my Social Justice test. It's an online course and the
instructor is "an openly gay" Catholic theologian. She has her Doctorate of
Divinity and I don't think she got hers for $200 like some people we know. She's a true intellectual and a socialist liberal (is that redundant or
what?). The first article we had to read and comment on was regarding allowing
gays in the priesthood. Of course, she has a problem with referring to God as a
male. She says we should refer to God as "The Deity" or when we write we should try mixing it up by occasionally referring to God as "She" or "Her." She DEFINITELY has a problem with wealthy, heterosexual, white men as authority figures. Amazing all these
details I'm gleaning from her writings. I've never met her in person...should
stop by her office on campus one of these days.
>
> My Sociology teacher is Dr. Moon. He's from South Korea and has a strong
Asian accent. He can hardly complete a sentence and it makes it quite difficult
to obtain knowledge of the subject from his lectures. But I seat myself right in
front of him on the front row and try very hard to understand him. He has an
endearing naive quality and compares his native Korean culture with U.S.
culture. Wow! Interesting stuff. I think I would have a difficult time
adjusting in his country. I'm actually enjoying the class and find the course content fascinating.
>
> My Algebra teacher is ex-military and he ain't gonna hand out any freebies.
He barely gives us enough information during class time to prepare for tests.
His methodology is to give a list of Algebraic topics and says go to the library or
get some instruction online or go to the on-campus tutoring office to learn the
material. I've been using Algebra Workbook for Dummies and it's working for
me. I also like You Tube math videos. It helps to see an instructor work the
problems on the board.
>
> English is a breeze class for me, but the grade is based on attendance, so I'm
really trying to never miss a class. I MUST get at least a 2.75 gpa this
semester in order to keep my financial aid and scholarship for next semester.
Also, the 2.75 gpa is a requirement for qualifying for the communication
disorders program. So I'm working my head off trying do well in all my
classes. I'm a teeny bit stressed.
Almost fell asleep sitting at the piano in church this morning. The sermon was about Paul's conversion on the way to Damascus. We had communion this morning as we do every other Sunday. The ladies bake flat cakes of communion bread. It's a special recipe and tastes so good with the red wine. I take the piece of bread and hold it in my mouth, then take the tiny cup of red wine and let it soak together. It's a wonderful combination of flavors! I always have to hurry and gulp it down so I can sing the communion song with the congregation.
I have to do Algebra homework the rest of the day. Going to park myself at my dining room table, watch youtube snippets about plotting 7 points of a parabola, and work as many problems as I can to get ready for the next test. Please pray for my brain!!!
Hugs to one and all!
Your friend,
Dora
seguidordejesus
10-05-2008, 01:59 PM
So your math teacher doesn't teach you math? That's kind of weird.
nahkoe
10-05-2008, 02:09 PM
So your math teacher doesn't teach you math? That's kind of weird.
Unfortunately, not all that uncommon anymore. Especially in pre-college math classes (not sure what Dora is in). It makes life interesting as a tutor. And so very, very frustrating cuz students don't realize they're sinking until they're completely sunk and it can take weeks to figure out where they started taking on water...and the class isn't stopping to wait for them during those weeks either.
Wow...that sounds like quite an interesting group of instructors! lol
I don't like your math prof. There, I said it. lol I'm a math snob. I don't like his teaching style at all. Too many students are going to slide right through the cracks with that style. I'm glad you're keeping up though, that's great. :)
Good luck with the parabolas! They took me awhile to really get, but I made it. :) You can do it too, I'm sure of it. :)
Please send me your phone number. I desperately need Algebra help.
Need equations for focus, directrix of a parabola, etc. HELP!!!
Thanks so much!
d
Went to the math office to get some tutoring...but she wasn't much help. My instructor has us doing pre-calculus stuff and I'm still wondering what happened to Algebra I! Good grief! Lord HELP!
I'm trying to find the equation of the points of the latus rectum based on the focus point and the distance from the focus point to the vertex. Also need to know the equation to find the distance from the ending points of the latus rectum to the directrix.
Ugh! Going El Nutso here!
Hugs!
Dora
Oh! I'm getting A's in Sociology and English! Hallelujah!
tamor
10-07-2008, 01:19 PM
Oh! I'm getting A's in Sociology and English! Hallelujah!
Good job!!
nahkoe
10-07-2008, 02:36 PM
Went to the math office to get some tutoring...but she wasn't much help. My instructor has us doing pre-calculus stuff and I'm still wondering what happened to Algebra I! Good grief! Lord HELP!
I'm trying to find the equation of the points of the latus rectum based on the focus point and the distance from the focus point to the vertex. Also need to know the equation to find the distance from the ending points of the latus rectum to the directrix.
Ugh! Going El Nutso here!
Hugs!
Dora
Did you get the PM I sent? Did that link help at all?
Blubayou
10-07-2008, 02:52 PM
Dora- that math talk sounds like a cross between Greek and medical terms!!! I went into education because it had the least amount of math in the curriculum. I admire your "get up and go" by going back to school- I went back at 42 years old to get my master's degree. You Go Girl!
I'm sooooo tired! Studying for midterms. I took my Sociology midterm yesterday. (my Korean instructor calls it Soh-shee-Arr-roh-gee) Think I did pretty well.
I've been studying my head off for my Social Justice class. The material states that Christians are obligated to promote peace and nonviolence no matter what. Don't know if I can agree with that across the board. Many things about this class a putting huge questions in my mind...
Last night, SIL made peach cobbler for us and we celebrated my daddy's birthday. He's 70 years old. I can't believe it. He's still so handsome and wonderful. Love him so much. I pray he stays with us for at least another 30 years. 100 is the new 70!
Ok! Gotta run!
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
rosebud
10-10-2008, 09:22 AM
I'm sooooo tired! Studying for midterms. I took my Sociology midterm yesterday. (my Korean instructor calls it Soh-shee-Arr-roh-gee) Think I did pretty well.
I've been studying my head off for my Social Justice class. The material states that Christians are obligated to promote peace and nonviolence no matter what. Don't know if I can agree with that across the board. Many things about this class a putting huge questions in my mind...
Last night, SIL made peach cobbler for us and we celebrated my daddy's birthday. He's 70 years old. I can't believe it. He's still so handsome and wonderful. Love him so much. I pray he stays with us for at least another 30 years. 100 is the new 70!
Ok! Gotta run!
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
That cracked me up! I just turned 49 a couple of days ago and was thinking....okay what is it 40's are the new 30's????.... and then when I climbed out of my husband's truck I told him how could I be only 49 when I feel like 80 about now, was feeling a little sore and stiff that day:winkgrin to much house cleaning and the ol bod was just not feeling up to snuff....
My mom when she was in her 80's and we were trying to get her to go to an Adult Day care program (for some socialization) and she said "no way, I do not want to sit around with a bunch of old people"! So age is all in the mind I suppose.......at least that is what I'm telling myself as I enjoy my last year of be 40!!!:sad
tamor
10-10-2008, 10:00 AM
My mom when she was in her 80's and we were trying to get her to go to an Adult Day care program (for some socialization) and she said "no way, I do not want to sit around with a bunch of old people"! So age is all in the mind I suppose.......at least that is what I'm telling myself as I enjoy my last year of be 40!!!:sad
Love your Mom's way of thinking!! :ursofunny:ursofunny
I can so relate to feeling O-L-D at the ripe old age of 44! I'm exhausted/sleep deprived and just took a DOOZY of a midterm online in Social Justice - all ESSAY QUESTIONS. ARGGGHHH!!!
I'm expecting the children's musical packet to arrive today. I have to type up the script and the lyrics for the songs and make CD's for the kids who have solos. Good grief! The madness never ends! Have to admit I enjoy staying busy. I'm not a happy camper when I have too much "dead air down time."
I'm so upset about politics! How partisan and politically biased is it that the investigative panel has decided that Palin violated the law in the "Trooper-gate" situation??? The blatant liberal agenda of the left makes me furious!
Looks like we are going to have an anti-American, White people hating, socialist as our president in a few weeks. What a disaster for our country! Look for your paycheck to be taxed out of existence.
On that happy note...I'm going back to sleep. Thank you, God!
Blubayou
10-11-2008, 11:21 AM
Dora- Tell us what your really think!!!!
I've been talking to a preacher friend from back in my High School days. He has a real Phd. in Divinity and he's quite the character. He knew my Paw Paw Guidroz and greatly admires C.L. Dees and J.T. Pugh and others... He says I need to follow my heritage and recognize my purpose and get serious about using my voice for ministry. He says he's going to help me make an album with David Huff. So I sent David my songs and we are talking about putting the thing together. I'm sharing this info with some trepidation because I'm always worried that some things are too good to be true. I'm just gonna move forward and see what happens. Life is one big ADVENTURE!
I'll keep y'all posted on how all of this goes...whether it goes or not...maybe it really will happen...that would be a good thing...
going back to sleep....
Blubayou
10-11-2008, 11:34 AM
Praying with you on this endeavor.
rgcraig
10-11-2008, 06:49 PM
Dora - that's great news!
I pray that it goes just like the Lord wants it to!!
READ FROM THE BOTTOM UP:
I think I may have hacked off my Social Justice instructor...uh oh
| From: Dora Hammer | Subject: Response | Date Sent: October 14, 2008 10:30 AM | To: Jane G | | | Response: At times I feel like everything I submit is being unfairly criticized. Am I self-absorbed and greedy because I'm working hard to improve my financial situation? One of the main reasons I am pursuing a career in Communication Disorders is to help others. I look at improving my lot in life as a version of putting the airplane oxygen mask over my own face before I can reach out to help someone else. My tax returns for the last 4 years show that my income is below the poverty line. I'm struggling to pay my bills and just make it from day to day. Still, I am genuinely concerned about the impact my consumerism has on the global community. I tend to avoid shopping at Wal-mart, but when you're broke you go to Wal-mart to get your medicine for $4 a bottle. Are we supposed to symbolically self-flagellate in order to be able to "relate" to the anawim? Yes, stand with them and advocate for them! When we are struggling in our own experience, we need to lift our countenance and reach for a higher purpose and realize that even in our struggle we can make a difference for those who are in deplorable unimaginable suffering. I'm a bit frustrated with your responses...without personal interaction, I feel like you're making assumptions about my assumptions and something is getting lost in the process. | | |
My instructor's response to my paper regarding Global Connections (i.e. purchasing pajamas from Vietnam where the workers may be in sweatshop conditions):
Not sure what your first page has to do with the assigned question... | do these candidates help us see the connections/injustices promoted by our economic structures and foreign policies? | I was struck by your reflection and your class status: "I can provide quite nicely for myself..." while that is something many in our nation cannot take for granted, perhaps you might think about what will you do with this privilege to change the economic system that keeps places like Wal-Mart going. Our homes and our dinner tables are covered with goods imported from all over the world sustaining "our way of life" while they then in turn have to import basic food stuffs, often going without because they can't afford it. | We (i.e. Americans) can do business differently if/when we take responsibility for hurtful and exploitive practices as well as see our consumerism for what it is: a from of greed and self-absorbtion. On a positive note the vdieo clip shows how local communities can and continue to make enormous differences in terms of how class functions in the US.
Dora,
I had a sociology professor from Taiwan who worked in a sweat shop as a kid. We asked her opinion and she said she is 60% for them and 40% against. I think she might even have been more for them but toned down her percentage to be politically correct. She said it helped them out when they needed it. They put the power for Max Factor in the little cases with no masks or anything.
Dora,
I had a sociology professor from Taiwan who worked in a sweat shop as a kid. We asked her opinion and she said she is 60% for them and 40% against. I think she might even have been more for them but toned down her percentage to be politically correct. She said it helped them out when they needed it. They put the powder for Max Factor in the little cases with no masks or anything.
Really? Wow! That is very interesting... I would love to know more about this.
Really? Wow! That is very interesting... I would love to know more about this.
Well, I told you pretty much all I know! LOL! But, yes, my curiousity was really piqued when she brought it up because I wondered if she would follow mainline thinking, having been there. She was pretty careful to follow mainline thinking on everything else, but in this area she seemed to think that it had really helped her family otherwise they would have been worse off than they already were. I had this class about 2 years ago.
This instructor is really pushing us in our thinking about the human struggle, poverty, becoming more aware of suffering, and advocating for improving the common good. She says we should "agitate" politically for change.
I'm grateful to have been made aware of facts and statistics regarding poverty, hunger, poor working conditions, etc. in our nation. I definitely feel the call to make community service a bigger part of my life.
This instructor is really pushing us in our thinking about the human struggle, poverty, becoming more aware of suffering, and advocating for improving the common good. She says we should "agitate" politically for change.
I'm grateful to have been made aware of facts and statistics regarding poverty, hunger, poor working conditions, etc. in our nation. I definitely feel the call to make community service a bigger part of my life.
Sure, that's always noble. I wonder though sometimes about people who are so opposed to shipping work overseas....when we have so much and they have so little and people are upset about jobs going over there. Well, I like to eat and so do they. Maybe it's not such a bad thing.
Please pray for my dad. He had a mild heart attack. So we are taking him to the hospital to have a heart cath to check for blockage and to possibly place a stint.
This really hit me hard...love my daddy so much.
I'm thoroughly disgusted with politics! Who decided that McCain was the "best" Republican Nominee??? Why won't he make the point that even Bill Clinton agrees that the dems are responsible for the worst financial crisis of our time.
His response to the question about appointing pro-life judges, McCain responded that he would not base his decision on a litmus test. What a lame answer.
Otherwise, Obama was swatting away every challenge like so many annoying flies.
Mom, Kerry and I are up at the hospital waiting for dad to come out from having a heart cath and possibly a stint place. Please keep dad in your prayers.
rgcraig
10-16-2008, 07:00 AM
Dora,
Praying all goes well with your dad!
Please pray for my dad. He had a mild heart attack. So we are taking him to the hospital to have a heart cath to check for blockage and to possibly place a stint.
This really hit me hard...love my daddy so much.
Praying for your Dad!
Blubayou
10-16-2008, 08:24 AM
Praying for your dad!
Dad has 80% blockage in his main artery. They had to place a stent and he will probably have to have bypass surgery. Don't know when. But the doctor seemed optimistic about his recovery prognosis.
I've been awake since 3AM, so sleepy
Rhoni
10-16-2008, 02:44 PM
Dad has 80% blockage in his main artery. They had to place a stent and he will probably have to have bypass surgery. Don't know when. But the doctor seemed optimistic about his recovery prognosis.
I've been awake since 3AM, so sleepy
Dora,
I'll keep praying for your DAD. By-pass surgery is difficult but Jehoveh Rophe is still on the throne.
:friend
Hugs,
Rhoni
Up at the hospital with dad. He has been miserable all day because they had him flat on his back for 12 hours. He just got up and walked around. Then they brought him a tray of food. He feels weak but no pain. Glad he is finally able to lift the head of his bed and get more comfortable. He's looking a lot better now. Thank God!
Thanks to all of you for your prayers. I stayed with mom last night. We both slept like logs. Dad is coming home this morning! Yay!
Think I failed another algebra exam. I'm so depressed about that...
Going to talk to the campus counselor about my algebra professor. Need to see if I can drop the class without losing my scholarship and financial aid. I'm feeling sick about this.
When an instructor assumes that all the students already know the material, it's a tough situation. It's been 20 years since I've been in an algebra class. He doesn't lay a foundation and build up from there. He's all over the place. He throws out a topic like parabolas or quadratic equations and say go out and learn all you can about this.
I know I can do this...so frustrated...
Blubayou
10-21-2008, 09:03 AM
Dora- think about getting a tutor or studing with the smartest person in the class!
I spoke to the head of the math department today. I'm hoping it helps. We'll see what happens.
I spoke to the head of the math department today. I'm hoping it helps. We'll see what happens.
You can do it, Dora! :clap
Rhoni
10-22-2008, 12:56 PM
I spoke to the head of the math department today. I'm hoping it helps. We'll see what happens.
They let me take business math in place of Algebra. See if you can get that option.:friend Math is not my subject either.
Blessings, Rhoni
I can do algebra, but I need a teacher. Thank you, very much! It's like trying to teach yourself to play the piano. It's not such a great way to go.
rgcraig
10-22-2008, 08:41 PM
I can do algebra, but I need a teacher. Thank you, very much! It's like trying to teach yourself to play the piano. It's not such a great way to go.
I struggled at first with algebra, but I had a friend that helped me for about a week - - one day it was like a light went off and I made straight A's. He took the time to explain it until I grasped the concept and it was a breeze after that. Your teacher is acting like everyone already knows everything and he's just there to facilitate the test. Not good!
When I spoke with the head of the math department, he said that several students had complained and that they have been talking to him about changing his ways. My professor is not teaching math in a manner that helps the majority of the class truly grasp the material.
Turned the heater on for the first time this Fall Season! It's c-c-c-cold! I love it!!!
Only problem is I don't have many warm clothes left that fit me.
I bought a pair of size 6 jeans today!!! That was exciting!!! Smiling from ear-to-ear!!!
Sherri
10-23-2008, 09:11 PM
Turned the heater on for the first time this Fall Season! It's c-c-c-cold! I love it!!!
Only problem is I don't have many warm clothes left that fit me.
I bought a pair of size 6 jeans today!!! That was exciting!!! Smiling from ear-to-ear!!!
I could buy a pair of size 6 jeans too. So what?
(Of course I couldn't even get one thigh in them!!):ursofunny
I could buy a pair of size 6 jeans too. So what?
(Of course I couldn't even get one thigh in them!!):ursofunny
I also got a pair of size 8's, but they need to be taken in. I found a good tailor and she is now my best buddy! Ha! She has saved me a bunch of money!
Today has been a crazy day. I've been running around like a chicken trying to get everything done. Had school this morning, then taught lessons, then went to Michael's to buy a gift for my niece's birthday, then home to write a paper for social justice class online.
Tomorrow I have to play/sing for a wedding. Our choir director at the Lutheran church was widowed 3 or 4 years ago. She's probably the same age as my mom and she met a nice man. They're getting married tomorrow and she's wearing my dress from when I married "Earl." Ha! I prayed over it (the dress) and hope they have a wonderful marriage. They are so cute together!
After the wedding is my niece's birthday party. I'm excited to see her open her gift! They are having the party by Boerne Lake. It's a beautiful place and so we should have a great time! We always do!
On Sunday, we start rehearsing for the children's Christmas musical. We're going to have to put the pedal to the metal because we only have 6 weeks. I'm confident we can do it! It's been a while since I've done the musical thing, so I'm going to need all the help I can get! Lord help! Please pray that all goes well!
I have to write an essay on how boys are being left behind in the classroom these days. Any thoughts you may have on this subject are WELCOME!!!
Hope and pray all is well with you!
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
Blubayou
10-24-2008, 09:34 PM
Dora - Just some thoughts- Classrooms are not designed for boys. Boys are comfortable in constant movement, not sitting quietly in rows in a classroom. Boys learn better by doing, not writing. Boys fine motor skills do not develop as early as girls, therefore they struggle with paper and pencil activities. In this age of testing in the classroom, teachers are having to focus away from experiential learning and more on paper and pencil activities. These are just some random thoughts, but I hope they will give you a starting point. Look up No Child Left Behind and testing and gender issues this should help you.
Dora - Just some thoughts- Classrooms are not designed for boys. Boys are comfortable in constant movement, not sitting quietly in rows in a classroom. Boys learn better by doing, not writing. Boys fine motor skills do not develop as early as girls, therefore they struggle with paper and pencil activities. In this age of testing in the classroom, teachers are having to focus away from experiential learning and more on paper and pencil activities. These are just some random thoughts, but I hope they will give you a starting point. Look up No Child Left Behind and testing and gender issues this should help you.
Thank you so much!!!
What do you think about labeling boys with ADHD and feeding them Ridilin?
One of my cousins was diagnosed with ADHD and his parents bought into it. Every time he would express himself exuberantly, they would tell him to pop a pill. It made me feel sort of skeptical...
jezebelslayer
10-25-2008, 08:22 AM
Thank you so much!!!
What do you think about labeling boys with ADHD and feeding them Ridilin?
One of my cousins was diagnosed with ADHD and his parents bought into it. Every time he would express himself exuberantly, they would tell him to pop a pill. It made me feel sort of skeptical...
I worked as a school nurse in an elementary school for several years. I was amazed at the number of children on Ritalin. After pulling a few facts together I discovered a few teachers were always advising parents to go to Dr. So and so .. that their child needed to be on Ritalin because in that teachers opinion the child was ADHD. So the parents would go running to Dr. So and so and the child would be place on Ritalin during the day and sleeping meds during the night. I started asking about these certain teachers and their abilitly to label kids as having ADHD. I was told to just stick to my clinic work. 98% of the kids on Ritalin in this school were boys .. from kinder. to fourth grade. Most of the time the children never went through any type of testing for a diagnosis...they were just put on Ritalin because of the teachers recommendations.
I do know there are cases where medical intervention was needed and was successful but most cases were not. Appalling.
rgcraig
10-25-2008, 08:28 AM
SIZE 6!!!!! Whoohooo!!!! :friend
Blubayou
10-25-2008, 09:29 AM
There are children that are truly ADD/ ADHD and they really need the meds to help them learn and concentrate, but the vast majority of the children on meds for ADD/ ADHD do not need it. Parenting is a difficult job, and if you have a difficult child it is even more challenging. Some parents find it much easier to drug the problem than to work to correct the problem. This is true with teachers also. Many time teachers push parents to put their kids on meds because they are a problem in the classroom and the teachers hands have been tied on what measures they can take to discipline.
Blubayou
10-25-2008, 09:32 AM
This issue speaks to they way boys learn and behave. They are busy, moving self's do not lend itself to a quiet learning environment- therefore we put them on drugs to quieten them. There is a disproportionate number of boys on Ritalin and in the special education system.
commonsense
10-25-2008, 09:42 AM
Many years ago (70's) Readers Digest had an article on how schools are aimed at girls and not boys. They pointed out that boys want to move and learn more by doing.
The issue showed that girls are more likely to sit quietly at their desk and"behave".
commonsense
10-25-2008, 09:51 AM
RE ADD.....I know there are real cases but for the most part I don't believe every boy in America needs drugs.
Teachers need better training and perhaps more power........
My son was a "delight" in school.lol He spent 1/2 of grade school with his desk in the hall. BORED out of his mind. Once he grasped the lesson he went on to other activites; he thought homework was stupid since he already knew the material.
He was tested so many times....they were looking for the learning disability tag*******
But he always scored high so they had to find another "plan". It couldn't be the "school"!
In high school he finally got a teacher that he connected with. His comments were that if that teacher had appeared earlier he would have done much better in school.
Thanks so much for your comments. I'm not a parent, but have worked with kids for many years teaching music lessons. I'd like to hear more about how schools are geared more toward teaching girls than boys and how boys are being sort of left out in the cold. How is this happening in the classroom?
Puppy Dog Tails
Dora Hammer
10-26-08
While performing my morning ablutions, I usually listen to right-wing talk radio. Laura Ingram featured an author named Kathleen Parker who was touting her book, “Save the Males: Why Men Matter and Why Women Should Care.” Although I had heard rumblings on the subject of the American “boy crisis” in the classroom, this was the first time I really took notice. Kathleen Parker’s point is not an attempt to negate the progress of girls in their scholastic endeavors, but emphasizes the fact that the feminization of the classroom has put boys at a distinct disadvantage. After considering Parker’s premise, then reading Ellen Goodman’s article, “Getting Real in the Classroom,” I tend to disagree strongly with Goodman’s statement that the “boy crisis” is not “all it was cranked up to be.”
To further support her findings, Parker points out the media portrayal of men in movies and sitcoms as “bumbling idiots” who need a woman to help them get through any crisis that may arise. The following quote from Parker’s book is especially striking:
“Listen to the experts: Esther Vilar, in her best seller, ‘The Manipulated Man,’ calls the American male "the most exploited, the most suppressed, the most manipulated man on the face of the earth;" Linda Bowles said "It isn’t even close, the most abused, vilified, and sexually harassed Americans are white, heterosexual males. I don’t know why they put up with it — and I wish they wouldn’t;" Blackstone said ‘Woman is the favorite of the law.’”
Parker further states that boys are being emasculated by the educational system since the literature is geared more toward giving girls strong characters to emulate while stripping away male swashbuckling heroes that might encourage boys to “act out” violently. Instead of nurturing boys’ rough-and-tumble natural tendencies, Parker says, “we devalue the strong masculine type [and] reward the feminized male.”
With my young cousin, Ian Dane, I witnessed this very scenario played out before my eyes. His parents were encouraged to put him on Ritalin from age seven. His condition was regarded as a serious disease or ailment that was truly pitiful. I found his exuberance delightful and enjoyed his loquaciousness. His parents, however, regarded his constant fiddling and incessant commentary as tiresome and annoying. So, the cure was to administer a magic Ritalin tablet so the dear boy could “focus.”
After witnessing this exchange during a family gathering, I became concerned and did some research on the side effects of Ritalin. The results were alarming. I actually found a website posted in memory of a 14 year old boy who died due to an enlarged heart caused by long term use of Ritalin. The parents were intimidated by their son’s teacher and student counselor to get their son on a regimen of Ritalin. Otherwise, they would be reported to CPS for child neglect and abuse. The website states that schools receive government funding for every student that is diagnosed with ADHD and medicated and placed in special-ed classes. This drug has effects similar to amphetamines and cocaine and is considered a Schedule II illicit drug. Kids sell their Ritalin to their non-ADHD classmates for a healthy profit.
The point here is that the majority of children who are diagnosed as being “behaviorally challenged” are boys. In Gerry Garibaldi’s article, “How Schools Shortchange Boys,” he states that being labeled with the special-ed classification is the “bane of the modern boy.” These boys learn to work the system and intentionally underachieve because they know they can. They expect their tests to be modified and simplified so they can pass. Their special-ed instructors “assist” them with their homework so they won’t have to suffer a loss of self-esteem should they make a poor grade.
Former male feminist, Warren Farrell, became an advocate for male rights once he discovered that the feminist movement was discouraging the role of men in the raising of their own children. The feminists immediately disavowed their association with him and he became a pariah to their cause. He concluded the following: “I definitely agree with choices for women, but I do not agree with choices for women when they eliminate choices for men.” The fact that over one third of the children in American live in homes where their father is absent, is a profoundly sad commentary on the state of our culture.
After considering the contributions of so many experts on this important issue, I find Ellen Goodman’s conclusion that “we need to worry more about children one by one, and less about whether boys are losing their place at the head of the class,” to be an oversimplification and lacking of a full understanding of the dire implications of this problem for our society. We should get back to celebrating the snails-and-puppy-dog-tails side of boys and regain some equilibrium in our educational system.
commonsense
10-31-2008, 07:17 PM
Parker's position is stated well. I would say I agree with the premise.
btw, I'm also a Laura fan and get her e-blasts. While I may not always agree 100% she has the resources to ingest the news and then tell me what I'm thinking:ursofunny
Blubayou
10-31-2008, 07:38 PM
Looks like you have a great start to your paper for your class.
Looks like you have a great start to your paper for your class.
That was my paper and I made an "A" on it! Thank you, God!
I'm in Tampa, FL doing vocal workshop. We worked on Friend of God and Again I Say, Rejoice! We had a great time and I enjoyed getting to know these good folks. Hope I actually helped them. It was fun getting to do what I love doing - teaching harmonies, adding stylistic elements and improving vocal quality.
I just took my social justice test online. Think I made an A or a B...we'll see later.
Can't wait to get back home. I wish I could sleep for days, but think I'll be running my head off for the next few weeks. Maybe during the week of Thanksgiving I'll be able to rest.
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
VOTE McCAIN/PALIN!!!!
commonsense
11-04-2008, 06:15 PM
I did my part!!!
My latest English Comp essays:
Writing: A Prescription
By Dora Hammer
11-6-08
Brainstorming, contextualized knowledge, self-reflection, self-actualization, research techniques, child-centered teaching, building community with the class, are all “buzz words” among new teachers in the U.S. educational system. In his article, “The ‘Growth Model’ and the Growth of Illiteracy,” George Will bemoans the declining writing skills of high school graduates. He cites Heather Mac Donald’s essay, “Why Johnny Can’t Write,” to support his position that our educational system, especially in the writing department, is in serious need of reform. I definitely agree with Mr. Will on this matter.
In my Sociology class, we are studying the importance of language in society. We have learned that language allows culture to exist. Language has the following effects on society:
1) Language allows human experience to be cumulative,
2) Language provides a social or shared past,
3) Language provides a social or shared future,
4) Language allows shared perspective,
5) Language allows complex, shared, goal-directed behavior.
Through language, human beings are able to pass along knowledge, skills, experience and attitudes from one generation to the next. In our textbook, “Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach,” author, James M. Henslin, states that “language allows culture to develop by freeing people to move beyond their immediate experiences. Without language, human culture would be little more advanced than that of lower primates.” The author cites the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis that “language determines our consciousness,” and that “language both reflects and shapes cultural experiences.”
Since language is so important to cultural consciousness and plays an integral role in shaping our attitudes from generation to generation, would it not serve us well to be very sure that optimal speaking and writing skills are taught in our institutions of learning? Are we allowing the desire to be culturally inclusive to cheat our children out of a quality education? In his article, “Big Plans, Harmful Results,” Richard Lamm concludes the following: “Too many liberals refuse to consider that victimization is an inadequate explanation for all minority problems and that "salvation by government" has run its course. I have sadly come to agree with Ms. Mac Donald's major theme (if not her specifics) that parts of the liberal agenda are not only wrong, but harmful.”
So what can we do to turn things in a positive direction? In her follow-up article, “Why Johnny’s Teacher Can’t Teach,” Mac Donald writes the following prescription for improving matters in the U.S. classroom:
“A high amount of lesson content (in other words, teacher-centered, not student-centered, learning), individual tracking of students, and a coherent curriculum. The state should cling steadfastly to its momentary insight, at odds with its usual policies, and discard its foolhardy plan to enshrine Anything But Knowledge as its sole education dogma. Instead of permanently establishing the teacher education status quo, it should search tirelessly for alternatives and for potential teachers with a firm grasp of subject matter and basic skills. Otherwise ed school claptrap will continue to stunt the intellectual growth of the Empire State’s children.”
After several years of falling in nearly last place in international scholastic studies of student achievement, isn’t it about time we focused on revising lesson plans to include comprehensive writing and speaking skills? As stated above, language has a profound effect on society. Teaching students to communicate effectively and skillfully through the spoken and written word is sure to benefit future generations.
Natural Selection, Gradualism and Survival of the Fittest
By Dora Hammer
11-6-08
DEFINITIONS:
Gradualism
Biology. The view that speciation proceeds by imperceptibly small, cumulative steps over long periods of time rather than by abrupt, major changes.
Catastrophism
Geology. The doctrine that major changes in the earth's crust result from catastrophes rather than evolutionary processes.
Saltations
• Discontinuous movement, transition, or development; advancement by leaps.
• Genetics. A single mutation that drastically alters the phenotype.
Uniformitarianism
The theory that all geologic phenomena may be explained as the result of existing forces having operated uniformly from the origin of the earth to the present time.
Survival of the Fittest
Natural selection conceived of as a struggle for life in which only those organisms best adapted to existing conditions are able to survive and reproduce.
Phyletic gradualism is a macroevolutionary hypothesis rooted in uniformitarianism. The hypothesis states that species continue to adapt to new challenges over the course of their history, gradually becoming new species.
(Definitions from Answers.com)
Darwin posits the notion that over thousands of years and generations, all organic beings adapt to their physical conditions and pass on these beneficial mutations to future generations. Darwin hypothesizes that organisms that adapt a variation that equips them to survive their physical circumstances more efficiently, have a better chance of survival. Those organisms that lack the ability to adapt to their environment will not survive. He states, “This preservation of favorable varieties and the rejection of injurious variations, I call Natural Selection.”
This theory of “Natural Selection” included the theory of “gradualism” defined in biology as, “The view that speciation proceeds by imperceptibly small, cumulative steps over long periods of time rather than by abrupt, major changes” (Answers.com). Apparently, Darwin adapted this line of thought from the writings of James Hutton who originally proposed the theory of gradualism and from Charles Lyell who was a proponent of Uniformitarianism. Through direct observation and through extrapolation on imaginary scenarios, Darwin proposed that Nature, if given enough time, will gradually elevate a species to its ultimate form. He states, “Man selects only for his own good. Nature [selects] only for that of the being which she tends.” Gradualism, however, does not support the theory that over time changes will occur that will produce a new species. “Gradualism holds that every individual is the same species as its parents…”(Answers.com). The term “gradualism” applies to the species as a “population, not the individual” (Answers.com).
From Darwin’s theory of “Natural Selection,” economist, Herbert Spencer, coined the phrase “survival of the fittest.” It is referred to as a “metaphor, not a scientific description” (Answers.com). Darwin adopted the phrase for his own use in the fifth edition of his book, “The Origin,” and relates the phrase to “man’s power of selection.” Now Spencer’s phrase has become favored to describe Darwin’s theory of natural selection. However, proponents of evolution prefer to use the term, “natural selection,” since they feel it more accurately conveys the “complex nature” of an organism’s “phenotypic characteristics which enhance survival and reproduction" (Answers.com).
Much haggling over terminology among scientists has presented various arguments against using the term “survival of the fittest” to describe Darwin’s evolutionary theory of “natural selection.” Some say the term leaves out the main ingredient of natural selection – heritability. "Survivors survive, reproduce and therefore propagate any heritable characters which have affected their survival and reproductive success" (Answers.com). Others say that the predominance of the use of the term “survival of the fittest” has affected the mentality of modern society toward callousness for those who are weakest among us.
In my opinion, Darwin’s theory of natural selection and his musings on the subject leaves much to be discovered. His use of imaginary scenarios and his personification of “Nature” as the ultimate judge of whether an organism achieves its most perfected state, cause one to wonder whether his theories were influenced by a bad relationship or a thwarted endeavor of some sort. Whatever the source of his imaginings, we are left with the fallout from his “bomb” of a poorly formed theory. Amazingly, his “theories” have been elevated to “fact” by the majority of the scientific community and - I believe - to the detriment of our society.
Watching "A Raisin In the Sun" for a Social Justice assignment. The black family from the project are moving to a new house in the white suburbs. They're checking out their new digs. NICE!
The matriarch of the family just entrusted $6000 to her son who wants to open a liquor store with the money. She asked him to put $3000 in an account to help pay for his sister's med school tuition and put the rest in a checking account for the family. It will be interesting to see whether or not he does as she asks.
Syndey Poitier is the lead...
The white people of Clyburn Park subdivision sent a representative from the "welcoming" committee saying that it is "best" that Negroes stay in their own neighborhoods. Looks like they won't be having an easy time of it in their new house.
Looks like Walter's money got stolen by one of his "business partners." Uh oh!
Well, I don't want to ruin the movie for you, in case you ever watch it. Now I have taken notes on the movie and compared it to that actual original script. Of course, they had to take out parts to make it fit the time allowed for the stage and movie production.
The author of the play, Lorraine Hansberry, died of cancer at age 35. Sad... This play was groundbreaking because it exposed the typical life of a black family to the white community. It made a huge difference in public perception of black people. Good show!
It's Friday night and I'm taking a bit of a break from all the school work. I really shouldn't, but a girl's gotta have a little down time here and there.
I have to play for a wedding tomorrow, so I'm practicing the Bridal March and the recessional. I always seem to flub up the recessional...it's usually a complete train wreck when I do mess up. My fingers get all tangled up and it's just awful! So I usually have an uptempo love song lined up to rescue things - just in case. Dear Lord, please help me to get it right tomorrow!!!
My voice has been suffering because I'm not getting enough sleep. For the wedding, I'll be singing for about 30 minutes before the ceremony begins and about 20 minutes after as people are leaving. Please pray my voice holds up for the whole entire shindig!
The children's choir at the Lutheran church is working on a Christmas musical called, "A King Is Coming To Town," by Geron Davis. It's a cute one. The kids are really excited about it and have been working hard on learning their lines. The only problem is that we don't really have many good singers. So we'll be making use of the recording background voices!!! Thank God for 'em. One of the main characters will have to "rap" her solo because she is completely tone deaf. It's going to be okay...we'll make it work!
Pray, Saints! Pray!!!
Love and hugs!
Dora
It's so good to see that St. Mark is back in action stirring up trouble and stuff!!! Whhoooo Hoooo!!!!
Wow! It's C-C-C-C-OLD! Took Jazz out for his morning walk and almost froze my tail off!!!
BRRRrrrrrRRRrrrrrRRRrrrr.
Gotta go get ready to work with the kids on the Christmas musical. Please pray for us!
Hugs to one and all!
Dora
timlan2057
11-16-2008, 06:49 AM
Well, I don't want to ruin the movie for you, in case you ever watch it. Now I have taken notes on the movie and compared it to that actual original script. Of course, they had to take out parts to make it fit the time allowed for the stage and movie production.
The author of the play, Lorraine Hansberry, died of cancer at age 35. Sad... This play was groundbreaking because it exposed the typical life of a black family to the white community. It made a huge difference in public perception of black people. Good show!
I never watched the movie.
I love the play script.
I'm too old now AND the wrong color but I've always wanted to play Walter Lee Younger in a production of "Raisin In The Sun" ...
This is my Social Justice Assignment for the week...what do you think? (Keep in mind that my instructor is a lesbian who wants to become a Catholic Priest)
Participation Assignment for Week 13: Due Tuesday, Nov. 18 by 11:55
(1-2 pages)
Watch the video presentation entitled: Maybe we are talking about a different God: Homosexuality and the Church
(may take a few minutes to download)
http://lib2.ollusa.edu/streaming/grovijahnjane/Maybe.wmv
[Before responding to the questions listed below, I want you to think about the last time you felt deeply unwelcome in a church for any reason. What was that experience like? If you have not had an experience of this kind of wounding, imagine what that would be like for you. Imagine being told that God loves you DESPITE who you are...]
After watching this presentation, describe why it is so powerfully oppressive to describe persons who love another of the same-sex as sinners. I am not asking you to defend or support the position. I am asking you to identify how this practice and teaching harms GLBT persons.
Refusing to ordain (out) GLBT persons is a common practice in most Christian denominations. Doing so suggests that GLBT persons are not called by God to serve in the church. It also teaches them (us) to reject who we have been created to be by God, or to lie and deny our own goodness. Why do you think so many churches still insist on this? How do we challenge the church on this one to give up its “idol of heterosexuality”?
Now that you have engaged in thinking about this situation, tell me what it was like for you to watch this video. What came up for you?
Dr. Jane Spahr - Lesbian Presbyterian minister
http://www.spahr.com/revjanie/justgiving/images/maybe.mov
I watched the video. They sure are pushing this stuff.
Anyway, I think it is true that many gay and lesbian people have been abused in the name of God. However, I don't believe total embrace is the answer either. I agree with the final decision.
I watched the video. They sure are pushing this stuff.
Anyway, I think it is true that many gay and lesbian people have been abused in the name of God. However, I don't believe total embrace is the answer either. I agree with the final decision.
I definitely agree with the final decision...
Also agree that gays have been horribly abused by religious zealots. Where is the compassion for their souls and for their humanity? They can't even admit their feelings to their spiritual leaders for fear of being ostracized and abused. What should they do?
I definitely agree with the final decision...
Also agree that gays have been horribly abused by religious zealots. Where is the compassion for their souls and for their humanity? They can't even admit their feelings to their spiritual leaders for fear of being ostracized and abused. What should they do?
They are between a rock and a hard spot. I suppose they look for sympathy whereever they can find it. They can't be blamed for that. But, if we could somehow give compassion without condoning the sin. In this culture today, that is alsmost impossible. We also are between a rock and a hard spot.
They are between a rock and a hard spot. I suppose they look for sympathy whereever they can find it. They can't be blamed for that. But, if we could somehow give compassion without condoning the sin. In this culture today, that is alsmost impossible. We also are between a rock and a hard spot.
I agree...I'm wondering how to form my response...I know she wants affirmation that she is a worthwhile human being and that she is so much more than just a sexual being...(like Spahr says on the video). But I still believe the act of homosexuality is sin. I'm not prepared to have an "out" homosexual as a spiritual leader. I don't believe that God's Word allows for homosexuals in the ministry. I know that should go without saying, but in modern times we are asked to be "tolerant." I strongly abhor the hateful treatment that some in the church feeling justified in meeting out to gays. I can't see what good it does for the Kingdom of God. We are all God's children and God loves us, Blemishes and all...
rgcraig
11-19-2008, 10:00 AM
Dora,
I've finally decided to go back to school too. I'm going through the registration process now to see how many previous hours will transfer.
I'll begin classes in Febuary.
What a shame that I have a total of 96 hours and two thirds of that is from JCM - non-accredited!
tamor
11-19-2008, 10:27 AM
Dora,
I've finally decided to go back to school too. I'm going through the registration process now to see how many previous hours will transfer.
I'll begin classes in Febuary.
What a shame that I have a total of 96 hours and two thirds of that is from JCM - non-accredited!
Will they take any of them as life experiences and give you some credit for them? I know some schools will do that.
rgcraig
11-19-2008, 10:30 AM
Will they take any of them as life experiences and give you some credit for them? I know some schools will do that.
The counselor was encouraging - there's a possibility that some will count. Also, the college that I'll be attending is Biblical based, so I'm really hoping that will make a difference too.
tamor
11-19-2008, 10:32 AM
The counselor was encouraging - there's a possibility that some will count. Also, the college that I'll be attending is Biblical based, so I'm really hoping that will make a difference too.
Cool. We have checked some Biblical based ones out for Jon too, and those said they will give him credits for some of his college and also for years of miinistry.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
rgcraig
11-19-2008, 10:58 AM
Cool. We have checked some Biblical based ones out for Jon too, and those said they will give him credits for some of his college and also for years of miinistry.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
Loved for who I am - :ursofunny
Don't have any plans to change my career - just have a chance to move into the next salary range since I'm at the top of mine now. A piece of paper will help me do that.
tamor
11-19-2008, 11:13 AM
Loved for who I am - :ursofunny
Don't have any plans to change my career - just have a chance to move into the next salary range since I'm at the top of mine now. A piece of paper will help me do that.
:thumbsup I understand!
I agree...I'm wondering how to form my response...I know she wants affirmation that she is a worthwhile human being and that she is so much more than just a sexual being...(like Spahr says on the video). But I still believe the act of homosexuality is sin. I'm not prepared to have an "out" homosexual as a spiritual leader. I don't believe that God's Word allows for homosexuals in the ministry. I know that should go without saying, but in modern times we are asked to be "tolerant." I strongly abhor the hateful treatment that some in the church feeling justified in meeting out to gays. I can't see what good it does for the Kingdom of God. We are all God's children and God loves us, Blemishes and all...
I know Rhoni had to fight hard to be in her profession while believing homoseuxality is a sin. I suspect things are going to get tighter yet.
Dora,
I've finally decided to go back to school too. I'm going through the registration process now to see how many previous hours will transfer.
I'll begin classes in Febuary.
What a shame that I have a total of 96 hours and two thirds of that is from JCM - non-accredited!
Ugh!!
Anyway, congrats on going back. I took a few classes in recent years. Will probably take more in time.
rgcraig
11-20-2008, 03:14 PM
Ugh!!
Anyway, congrats on going back. I took a few classes in recent years. Will probably take more in time.
Found out today that I'll be able to transfer 60 hours, so that's not too bad. I'm a junior!
Blubayou
11-20-2008, 05:09 PM
Great news! I did most of my "going back to school" in the summer, while I was off from teaching. I always found it hard to juggle work and school- or at least while I was teaching. I admire anyone who goes back.
Dora,
I've finally decided to go back to school too. I'm going through the registration process now to see how many previous hours will transfer.
I'll begin classes in Febuary.
What a shame that I have a total of 96 hours and two thirds of that is from JCM - non-accredited!
WOW! Renda! I'm so excited for you! I completely feel your pain on the Bible college credits. But you'll do great and the time will fly! You GO!!!
rgcraig
11-21-2008, 09:35 AM
WOW! Renda! I'm so excited for you! I completely feel your pain on the Bible college credits. But you'll do great and the time will fly! You GO!!!
Thanks! I'm excited, but apprehensive at the same time!
Here's the link to where I'll be attending - http://www.crichton.edu/
Do you have a transcript from JCM? Luckily, I requested one back in 2001 when I was thinking about going back to school. I'm not sure if there's anyway to get one now. I've contacted FPC in Jackson to request a letter stating that JCM is closed and haven't heard from anyone yet.
Mom and I are cookin' up a storm. I baked the sweet taters for the casserole with the crumble topping. Then I made two kinds of cranberry chutney. One is sweet with apples, crushed pineapple, coconut and pecans. The other is savory with apples, onions, red bell pepper, ginger and a serano pepper.
Dad played guitar and sang oldies while mom and I cooked.
So nice!
Sarah
11-26-2008, 05:43 AM
Mom and I are cookin' up a storm. I baked the sweet taters for the casserole with the crumble topping. Then I made two kinds of cranberry chutney. One is sweet with apples, crushed pineapple, coconut and pecans. The other is savory with apples, onions, red bell pepper, ginger and a serano pepper.
Dad played guitar and sang oldies while mom and I cooked.
So nice!
This sounds great.............I love making memories!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING to all of you!
Hugs!
D
Renda! I'm lovin' your Christmas Pic! Whoo Hoo!!!
Is Mark back???
I'm avoiding finishing my final Social Justice project...avoiding....avoiding....avoiding....
Facebook, AFF, AOL, Myspace...OLLUSA (university mail)...avoiding...avoiding....ok...
gotta git 'er done!!!
Merry Christmas to one and all!
Hugs!
Dora
rgcraig
12-12-2008, 02:27 PM
Thanks!
Proud to announce that I got all of my Finals and Final Projects done for my classes at OLLU. I think I'm making two A's and one B...we'll see.
My music students played and sang for Dickens on Main in Boerne today. We had blustering winds, about 60 MPH. Blowing! Blowing! Blowing! Parents had to hold my music pages open while their child sang. We had all sorts of clippy things to hold music books down and pages open and it was just CRAZY! but the kids did a great job! I was so proud! I know all the parents were proud, too.
Michael Phelps
12-13-2008, 05:45 PM
Proud to announce that I got all of my Finals and Final Projects done for my classes at OLLU. I think I'm making two A's and one B...we'll see.
My music students played and sang for Dickens on Main in Boerne today. We had blustering winds, about 60 MPH. Blowing! Blowing! Blowing! Parents had to hold my music pages open while their child sang. We had all sorts of clippy things to hold music books down and pages open and it was just CRAZY! but the kids did a great job! I was so proud! I know all the parents were proud, too.
Awesome, Dora! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!::penguin
Well, our kids Christmas musical was a HIT! They did a GREAT job! Wow! Kids always amaze me! We did Geron Davis' "A King Is Coming To Town." The Lutherans were boogy-ing down to the contemporary tunes! Yayyy!!!
I made A's on all three of my final project in my most difficult class - Social Justice. I'm still waiting to see what my grades are. Hoping now for STRAIGHT A's!!! I would be so pleased and proud! It was a tough semester trying to adjust to being a student again...a very O-L-D student...hangin' out with all these young whipper snappers at the university! Ha! It's quite the adventure.
Projects Ahead: Work with choir to get them ready to sing for Sunday, 12/21 and for Christmas Eve services at 5PM and 7PM.
Next year I'm taking a cruise for the whole month of December...NOT!
:christmasjigCELEBRATING!!!:christmasjig
4.0 GPA!!!
Seems I'm much more discipline in my OLD age of 44 yrs. I was too much the social butterfly as a youth. But y'all knew that already! LOL
I'm absolutely THRILLED! WHOO HOOOOO!!!!
:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin
Elizabeth
12-18-2008, 09:01 AM
:christmasjigCELEBRATING!!!:christmasjig
4.0 GPA!!!
Seems I'm much more discipline in my OLD age of 44 yrs. I was too much the social butterfly as a youth. But y'all knew that already! LOL
I'm absolutely THRILLED! WHOO HOOOOO!!!!
:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin
:stars :congrats:bdayparty
Good Job Dora!!
rgcraig
12-18-2008, 08:48 PM
:christmasjigCELEBRATING!!!:christmasjig
4.0 GPA!!!
Seems I'm much more discipline in my OLD age of 44 yrs. I was too much the social butterfly as a youth. But y'all knew that already! LOL
I'm absolutely THRILLED! WHOO HOOOOO!!!!
:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin
Dora that is awesome! You've set the bar pretty high!!!
Cindy
12-18-2008, 08:52 PM
:christmasjigCELEBRATING!!!:christmasjig
4.0 GPA!!!
Seems I'm much more discipline in my OLD age of 44 yrs. I was too much the social butterfly as a youth. But y'all knew that already! LOL
I'm absolutely THRILLED! WHOO HOOOOO!!!!
:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin:penguin
:congrats
:merrychristmas
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