Things I Love: NAUGHTY!

A waist is a terrible thing to mind and a mind is a terrible thing to waste.  Especially a dirty mind.

What can I say?  I'm a fan of sick, naughty humor.

Anything about farts can make me giggle.  Hysteria surrounds sharts.

I find the F word to be quite entertaining.  One day my kids will yell it at me like it's gonna break my heart but I'll probably laugh and high five them because, hey, I can totally handle F-Bomb rebellion.

Apparently my friends have picked up on my love of the naughty.  One of them posted this on my facebook page.

Source: dalanicole.blogspot.com via RJ on Pinterest

For someone like me who has a mature taste in the tasteless, somecards is pretty much the equivalent of cigarettes for a smoker.

My love for the naughtiness pretty much means I can lift my spirits anytime I go to somecards.com

Here are some of my naughty faves (STOP HERE and don't read if language offends)

Source: someecards.com via RJ on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via RJ on Pinterest

Source: someecards.com via RJ on Pinterest

For the record, I pulled all of these off my Pinterest account. But please,

Source: someecards.com via RJ on Pinterest

What I Think About: Polarization and Chicken Sandwiches

Chic-Fil-A drama--it's everywhere.  And technically I'm over it.  Way over it.  So in some ways I'm really bummed I'm writing this but here I am, plunking away on my Mac keys.  I tend to have multiple personalities this way.l

As a committed ally to the GLBTQ cause and a follower of Christ, I've wanted to stay out of the chicken sandwich debate but last Wednesday the Facebook rants were more than I could handle.  I'm not a "sit on the sidelines" kind of girl.  Mike Huckabee and people who are my Facebook friends were showing how committed Christians were since they were lined up at Chic-Fil-A and how this made the leftists crazy. (As though no Christian was ever on the left ... As though I can only be a "good" Christian if I eat a chicken sandwich or verbally condemn GLBTQ people as sinners).

I had a few people ask my take.

You asked for it.

IT'S A CHOICE (OR NOT)

I don't believe sexual/affectional orientation is a choice.  I've been my affectional orientation my whole life--why would it be different for someone else? (I know people have stopped "being" gay but I also know people who have "stopped" being brunettes.  It doesn't mean they were never brunettes--just that they've made a conscious decision to take actions to not be a brunette anymore--maybe because blondes have more fun and privileges. They will always be brunette, regardless of what changes they make to their lives/hair color).  You might believe orientation is a choice but you should know there is no solid proof one way or the other.  So your opinion is just that--OPINION not fact. The big question is this, should your opinion supersede the rights and opinions of others?  If so, why?

For the sake of this debate, I'm gonna play along with the "choice" theory even though I think it's hooey.  Let's talk about choices.

I was not born spouting opinions or toting a firearm but both of these CHOICES are protected.  I was not born a Christian but I CHOSE to become one and that choice is protected.  Choice is protected and valued ... except, it appears, where choosing to love someone is concerned.  Then that choice is discriminated against and put to a vote.  Don't forget, people, that real--and I mean REAL--persecution is coming.  We will be persecuted for CHOOSING Christ.   For CHOOSING our religion.   The precedent we set by denying justice and equality to those whose lifestyles we disagree with will come back on us.  Those we deny Christ to will have their say.  

Most importantly, Jesus did not require us to be clean and perfect before He loved us.  He LOVES people in the darkness.  He loves us at our darkest.  The only CHOICE that in unforgivable is denying Christ.  All other choices Christ can work with.  So get over your "it's a choice" moot point and and take people as they are.  Loving people is a CHOICE.  I CHOOSE to love as Jesus loved--without question and prerequisite because I believe HE makes all things work together for good.  

The FIGHT FOR TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE

Now this whole stink started because Cathy stated Chic-Fil-A supports traditional marriage.  Sounds great, right?

But what is traditional marriage?  Look in the Old Testament Mosaic Law.  Ask King David.  I'm pretty sure the picture of "traditional marriage" was polygamy.  Yes, yes.  We live under the new Covenant.  The new covenant only denies polygamy to men who want to be church leaders.  Polygamy is not prohibited in the Bible and is, in fact, our longest standing picture of marriage.  Aren't we all brideS of Christ?  Does Chic-Fil-A really support "traditional" marriage that includes polygamy?  I doubt it.  What they support is the church definition of marriage being the unity of man and woman that came out of some church meeting long after the death of Christ.

Am I saying I'm for polygamy?  I did NOT say that.  The Bible clearly states everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial.  What I'm demonstrating is how "traditional" marriage doesn't exactly mean what Cathy thinks it means.  Traditional depends on who creates (and enforces) the tradition (we have a historical tradition of slavery but I'm pretty sure none of us are on board with maintaining that practice).

And while I'm on the topic, granting marriage equality doesn't take away what marriage means to "traditional" Christians.  The biggest threat to marriage is divorce (not marriage) and to that I say, Christians, look at your Church and the divorce that is rampant there.  Attack THAT practice and save marriages!

WHAT THE BIBLE SAYS ABOUT HOMOSEXUALITY and JESUS

I know what the Bible says about homosexuality.  Do you know what it says about obesity?  Money grubbers?  We still let those people (who make those anti-Christian choices) in church and get married. What gives? Do you know what the Bible says about slavery (and do we support it)?  Do you know what it says about women who aren't virgins (and do we follow that mandate)?  Do you know what it says about powerful women and women leaders (and do we support it)?  Remember the Bible has been used as a bludgeon to uphold slavery, racial segregation, and objectification.  The WORD is truth; however, when used to be "right" rather than "righteous," it is a tool that turns people FROM Jesus rather than TO Jesus.

And now Jesus.  Half the people are supporting Chic-Fil-A because that's what Jesus would do.  Really?  Because the Jesus I know loves whores, and thieves, and the corrupt, and the unclean and He'd probably be feeding those people rather than supporting the Pharasiees who tell those whores they don't deserve equality because of their choices--because they don't uphold every aspect of the law.  The Jesus I know--well, He would be giving grace, not condemnation.

Our role is to turn people TO Jesus and let HIM work in their lives.  We are not the Holy Spirit; it is not our role to judge and convict sinners.  We are just tools who gets to love people so they know Jesus and let Him and the Spirit do mighty works in their lives.

FREE SPEECH, OPINIONS, and BOYCOTTS

Cathy--the President of Chic-Fil-A, as an individual, has a right to his opinion.  However he came out (pun intended) as a spokesperson for his company; thus, it makes sense those opposed to his opinions would lash out at the company.  

Right now you're probably thinking some "free speech" nonsense and that's what it is.  NONSENSE.  Our free speech has been and always will be limited.  Don't believe me? Threaten the President's life.  Go into a crowded venue and scream FIRE!  Trust me, there will be repercussions for what you say.

We can say what we want--that is a given--but with the right to free speech comes the responsibility to accept the consequences of our words.  This is especially true of Christians who will be held accountable for every word we say (Matthew 12:36).  Don't deceive yourself into thinking Cathy (or anyone) should be allowed to say whatever they want without consequence.  How dangerous that would be ...

On a business sense, I don't think states or cities should be able to deny permits because they disagree with a company's opinions, as long as their business practices are legal and ethical.  On the other hand, if individuals want to boycott (not persecute, boycott.  Boycotting is not persecution.  You want to know about persecution?  Read The Voice of the Martyrs) that is their right.

If you just said, "Amen," keep reading.  If you don't want the Government to interfere with opinions, and businesses, then why in the hell should Government be allowed to interfere with whom one loves and shares intimate relations with?  Big Brother Government is bad at work AND at home.  

Now some of my friends insinuate boycotting pushes people away and that Christians should love people rather than boycott them.  Brilliant argument, though tragically flawed. Those who boycott companies they perceive as being Anti-Gay are doing so because they LOVE people and they are taking a stand for equality.  Some support for the 1st Amendment.  Others boycott for the 14th Amendment. 

THE LEFTIES ARE HATE MONGERS 

First, this isn't a right/left issue.  I know lots of Lefties who support Chic-Fil-A and a lot of Righties who refuse to eat Chic-Fil-A because they support martial equality.  Stop polarizing this issue Right/Left because no issues is as easily defined as right/left, regardless of what our politicians and media would like us to believe.  Look at me!  Fiscally conservative, socially liberal.  I don't fit in the box--neither do most people.

As for hate mongering--I know how Christians are labeled as being hateful for standing up for their right to their religious beliefs (frustrating because I'm so pro-equality but because I follow Christ I'm assumed to be an enemy to the cause).  But I also know how Christians draw a line in the sand and are point out the sins of everyone who isn't on their side of the line.  Christians call people they don't know sinners (and sometimes an "abomination") but get irritated when the "sinners" call them hateful?  Hmmm ... 

Here's the truth.  Both sides are slinging crap.  Left and Right.  Both sides.  Faith-based and non-faith based. BOTH SIDES.  So don't come to me with this "I'm being persecuted for my beliefs" garbage because I'm not throwing you a pity party or buying a chicken sandwich to help you feel less persecuted.

If you can dish it, you better be ready to take it.

Or you could learn to turn the other cheek.  I remember reading that somewhere before.  Maybe it was in the Bible.  Or did we forget that part when we were, you know, reading about how it is our Christian right to point out the sins of others (while ignoring our own) and condemn them/discriminate against them for who they love?

WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE CHIC-FIL-A DRAMA

I support the rights of anyone who wants to eat at Chic-Fil-A or NOT.  Doing one does not make you a better defender of free speech, religion, the Republican Party, or Jesus.  Doing the other does not make you a hate-mongering looney liberal hell bent on bringing down marriage and The Church.

This whole incident has done one thing: it has demonstrated how Satan still uses the Pharisees of self-seeking pride and desire to be "right" in order to widen the chasm of misunderstanding and keep people who need Jesus from knowing Him (and keep people who know Jesus from loving like He does).

COMMENTS

Want to comment?  Go for it but I reserve the right to moderate comments.  As the blogger I CHOOSE to limit your free speech if you are unable to enter into conversation and express yourself without being hateful, vindictive, attacking, defensive, or using offensive language/names toward me or others.

Days of Play: Wherein I Admit to Hating Bubbles

Bubbles seem like such harmless things but geeze they make a mess.  I have leather furniture and every time we blow bubbles I end up with this bubble-slick nonsense that isn't super easy to clean up. Of course they are bubbles which means the couch gets super clean but I don't always feel like cleaning the couch on a daily basis, which is about how often my kids want to play with bubbles.

In good weather I blow bubbles outside.  Problems still abound.  Like the wind blows the bubbles up too high and I can't convince my kids that I'm not in charge of the wind so they clearly think: 1.  I'm blowing the bubbles up, up, and away just to hurt their feelings and 2.  I'm in charge of the universe (I'm actually okay with this assumption except for where wind, tornadoes, and earthquakes are involved).

The other problem is that I get winded, er um, tired.  Blowing bubbles for 30 minutes is a lot ... and I'm in good shape.  I do not want a bubble machine.  Then I'd feel like a failure because what parent can't blow bubbles for their kids, I ask you?

So anyhow.

This is one of (many) places where I fail as a mom. I hate bubbles.  And I didn't even talk about the bath kind.

Then again, kids love bubbles.  I actually remember the first time I showed both my kids bubbles.  The look of wonderment was amazing.  It was like they had the whole world figured out and the BAM! I hit them with bubbles and suddenly everything was up in the air in the best way possible.  I mean they are round and floaty and rainbowy and delicate.  Bubbles are pretty amazing ... except for the part where I hate them.

Lucky for me, I found a way my kids can make bubbles that totally enthralls them, keeps the couch clean, saves my breath, and isn't affected by wind.

What you will need:

• 9x13 inch pan for each child
• water
• food coloring (optional)
• 1-2 drops dish soap
• straw

What you do:

• Put a couple of drops in each pan.
• Add food coloring.
• Add water.
• Take pan outside.
• Give your kids the straws
• Let them blow bubbles.

The end.

Finally, bubble magicalness I can handle.

Music Monday: Bombay Bicycle Club

When Matt and I were in London, I kinda loved it.  The weather is my cup of tea.  And speaking of cup of tea ... I love tea.  My grandparents were English Canadian and man could they make a mean cup of tea (if ever you can refer to tea as mean ... but I trust you know what I mean. I'm stopping now).  All of this circles me back here.

The Bombay Bicycle Club.

Yes, this is how my mind works. You should be afraid.

The Bombay Bicycle Club is an English Indie band (I'm uncertain as to whether they like tea) that I enjoy listening to on "Reagan days."  Reagan days are those cool, foggy, not exactly raining but dark days where there is so much moisture in the air you can practically drink it.  Yep, this band is good on Reagan Days.

I'm slightly embarrassed to admit that my first attraction to this band came from one of the Twilight soundtracks, but it's true so there you go.

Anyhow, as I wait (impatiently) for the summer weather to give an inch and offer up more Reagan Days, I invite you to listen to The Bombay Bicycle Club and see if they deserve a spot on your iPod.


SHUFFLE



ALWAYS LIKE THIS



HOW CAN YOU SWALLOW SO MUCH SLEEP (where the obsession began and still my fave)



So, whose ready for some days that aren't 80 and sunny?

Date Night {OUT}: Seize the Carp!

Fun Fact:  When I was grossly underage I got a tattoo ... from a guy now serving prison time for killing a college-aged young lady.

Not my best decision.

But I did get a frog jumping over the words "Carpe Diem"(seize the day for those who don't like Latin.  Or Yolo if you are under 20) tattooed on my lower back.  PSA: this location is ill-advised if you are ever going to age past 20 and get anything that might slightly resemble a muffin top.

Seize the Day.

Sometimes when it comes to love, you just have to be a yes person.  You just have to seize the opportunities today.  You have to carpe the hell out of your diem.

So that is exactly what we did.

Yes, we could have had an elaborate date plan {which we often do}.

Yes we could have gone somewhere fancy for dinner or made out danced under the stars at the park.

But the carnival was in town.  So we seized an opportunity to put on our cowboy boots, drink beer, eat funnel cake, and ride the Zipper.

In the end, the best part of dating isn't being boxed in by someone else's vision of "the perfect date."  It's being able to enjoy this moment with someone so precious that every moment feels like the perfect one.

Things I Love: Aha! Moments

I love the feeling when something just clicks.

When I didn't understand something and I finally do.

When I couldn't figure out how to make something work and finally, it dawns on me how to do it.

Aha moments.  They are a fave.

When the light finally comes on, I feel pretty bright.

Now I seem to have Aha! moments a lot.  Not because I'm not smart but because I'm always trying to learn new things.  But I'm going to share a real game changer with you.

Don't ask me how I never knew this before but I didn't.  And since I've learned it, and shared the knowledge, I've learned lots of other people didn't know what I'm about to share with you either.

Here it goes.

Prepare yourself for an Aha!

You can make healthy microwave popcorn with nothing but a microwave, a brown paper sack and some popcorn.

From DAMN GOOD FOOD

Hello?  Mind blown, right?

Seriously, did you know this because I didn't until I read this post: All Natural Home Made Microwave Popcorn.

I've been making this kind of popcorn for a couple of months and now I can't figure out why anyone would pay wayyyyyy more for that preservative heavy crap (that tastes chemically amazing) at the store.

I've decided the only logical reason people pay more for the unhealthy stuff is because those people have obviously not had this popcorn AHA moment.

And now you have.

You're welcome.

What I Think About: School Supplies

On Saturday my family and I loaded up the old four wheel drive and went to Target to get school supplies.  As a former teacher and nerd d' jour, I love shopping for school supplies.  Seriously, I have to talk myself out of smiling like a fool when I see the "Back to School" shelves packed with Crayola crayons and washable markers (which, by the way, I'd like to say BRAVO to the inventor of washable markers).

Anyhow, I was at the store buying school supplies for 5 kids (because our church donates school supplies) and I heard to families in the aisle lamenting over the school supply lists.  I looked at the lists (everyone in town has the same supplies) and I was thinking, "This isn't bad" but based on what I was hearing, the fact that parents are expected to buy crayons or {{GASP}} have their children share crayons is totally unacceptable.

I did a huffy breath at them (I'm reading a lot of Junie B. Jones these days) and pranced away with my red cart brimming full of tissue boxes and post it notes but what I really wanted to say is this.

STOP COMPLAINING ABOUT SCHOOL SUPPLIES!

Here is why I think we all need to stop complaining about school supplies.

1.  OUR KIDS ARE GETTING A FREE EDUCATION!

In America I think it is easy to forget education isn't a right everywhere.  Despite UN mandates that education be free and available for all children, this isn't a reality.  Education is a divine privilege.  We should celebrate that our kids can go to school and a low cost to us (don't get me started on taxes).  There are parents who do not have the good fortune to buy their children school supplies.  How lucky we are that we GET to buy our children school supplies!

2.  YOU DON'T KNOW THE HALF OF IT!


Here's is my daughter's first grade supply list:

• 2 boxes of crayons
• 1 box of washable markers
• a pencil box
• 2 boxes of 24 #2 pencils
• 2 big erasers
• 2 packets post it notes
• 2 glue sticks
• 1 4 oz bottle of glue
• 2 composition books
• 1 1" binder
• 2 pocket folders
• 1 box of quart sized ziplock bags
• 2 boxes of tissue

I also bought supplies for 2, 3, 5, and 6th grade and the lists are about the same.  In total, I spent $150.  That's not bad.  And that's not the half of it.

If you feel compelled to complain about what you are spending, think about what the teacher is spending!  I'm a former teacher and let me tell you, those 48 pencils will be gone by December.  Want to know who buys the rest? The teacher.  Does it come out of some endless budget?  Nope.  It comes out of his/her own bank account.  

The same goes for glue sticks, markers, snacks, etc.  When it runs out (which happens fast when you leave a lid off a marker), parents aren't asked to buy more.  Teachers buy the items.  

Oh, and don't forget about the supplies that are just included at no additional cost to you--like books to read, inspirational posters, dry erase markers, playground equipment, SmartBoards, printer paper, construction papers, clay and other art supplies, P.E. equipment ... I know, I know, this is from our taxes.  Psh.  Our taxes don't cover half of it--just look at the uber poor inner city schools whose property taxes don't address necessities, like working toilets, let alone laptops.

3.  YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

Nothing irks me more than people who think American education sucks.  Riddle me this: If American education sucks, why do foreign countries model their schools after ours? Why do so many come to the States for college?  It isn't because our schools suck, I'll tell you that much.

I know you've heard how poorly we do on tests compared to other countries.  (I don't buy this.  Read THE MANUFACTURED CRISIS for more information or just remember that our tests test ALL students and then compare them the results of the top 1-10% from other countries ... because everyone doesn't get an education elsewhere--see #1).  My response to this (false) claim is you get what you pay for.

Did you know that in countries, like China and India, people pay as much for education as they do for their cars and homes?  What's your home worth?  Is that what you are putting into education, including your taxes?  Not even close.  

4.  IT'S ALL RELATIVE

As I stated in #3, Americans don't spend that much on education, comparatively speaking.  In fact, we spend more money on homes, cars, food, and entertainment then we do on education.  So the next time you want to complain about spending upwards of $30-$100 on school supplies, ask yourself, are you all worked up that you spend $100/month on a cell phone (or cable)?  Do you think twice about spending $50 on a tank of gas?  How about $25 going out for lunch?  

I understand that buying supplies might seem like a lot of cash at once but when you compare it to how you are spending your money elsewhere, is it really a big deal?  And compared to going out for dinner, is it less important? 

5.  IF YOU SPEND TOO MUCH, YOU ARE PROBABLY GOING OVERBOARD

Okay, I've lived in/taught/gone to school in a few different areas and I've never seen school supply lists that include items such as:

• North Face brand fleece jacket
• Miss Me Jeans
• iPhone
• 5 pairs of new shoes (including the hottest Nikes, Converse, and Jimmy Choos)
• 7 new outfits 
• coordinating accessories including but not limited to: hats, watches, scarves, cardies, hoodies, jewelry, Coach purses, acrylic nails, etc.

I get it.  When you go back to school shopping it costs a fortune.  But is it the supplies that cost a fortune or is it you, as a parent, going overboard to get your child every vanity item he/she desires? Are you getting new backpacks and scissors every year because your child has too much pride to use the same backpack twice? Are you actually spending money on what your children want or what they need?

WHAT I THINK is that if you are feeling overwhelmed with the costs of going back to school, I would look at the items you can re-use or live without.  School supplies, in and of themselves, are not generally the culprit to budget stress but the "keeping up with the Jones family" in terms of new everything and trendy clothing might be.  How can you trim the fat (without taking it out on the teachers who are going to supply the items you don't or that run out)?

P.S.  I fully, totally, and honestly recognize that for some families, just the basic school supplies--like pencils--really do break the bank and NOT because you are budgeting poorly or partying hard but because these are hard times. To you, I apologize for the way "back to school" adds stress to your life or makes you feel like you aren't doing a good job.  You are an amazing parent.  

Days of Play: Marshmallow Poppers (and a fun story)

So here's the story.

When M.E. was born my husband was a staff attorney for three judges, one of whom purchased this lamb/blanket toy for her arrival.  His grandson's favorite toy was the blanket lamb and the judge figured our daughter would love it.

She didn't.

When she was three I finally gave up trying to convince her of the cute cuddliness and passed it along to some lucky kid with better taste in blanket lambs.

While M.E. did not enjoy the toy, she always was fascinated with the box it came it.  The toy was from Red Envelope so of course it came in a red box.  6 years later, we still have that darn box.  Right now it serves as a baby bed/time out chair for our cat.

Funny how kids use the stuff we'd throw away and make great things out of it.

Lucky for me, I like to play with stuff to throw away too.  So when I read this Real Simple article on Toys You Can Make  (<--click the link to read the article and get popper directions) I was thrilled--especially with the marshmallow popper.  After all, I had just thrown a fiesta for Matt and had left over red solo cups (please sing the song ... NOW!).

Anyhow, I made two poppers for the kids and we ran around the house shooting each other with mini marshmallows.  Let me tell you, when you get to eat the weapon that "kills" you, it's a pretty good deal.

Photo from REAL SIMPLE 

Party cups + balloons + mini marshmallows=Big Fun (and an totally delicious but not at all healthy snack).

Music Monday: Aerosmith

Well this band needs no introduction.  They have an epic legacy that speaks of their awesomeness.  So why am I highlighting a band that is probably the best American rock band ever (aside from the Eagles ... my husband and I debate this.  I'm on team Eagles)?  Simple.  I'm going to an Aerosmith concert on Wednesday night.

And I have floor seats.

In the 7th row.

I'm probably going to die from excitement.

If I'm not back blogging next week, you understand what happened.

Anyhow, here's a shout out to one of the best American rock bands (and a few songs I hope I hear!).


CRAZY



JANIE'S GOT A GUN (Gosh this gives me memories of a car ride home from Sheridan!)



CRYIN' (My Matt's favorite but not because I'm psycho. He liked it before me).


AMAZIN' (My favorite)



Goodness ... there are so many more I want to high light! Dream On. Sweet Emotion. Love in an Elevator.

What's your fave Aerosmith song?

Fashion Friday: Fedora

Fedoras: Not just for old men.

My mom used to always tell me how lucky I was because I can pull off hats.  Any hats.  Cowboy hats. Beanies.  Sombreros.  I'm kind of a hat person.

So I'm particularly happy with this whole fedora hat trend.

See.  Don't I look happy in my fedora (and my scuba gear)?

My husband likes to borrow the fedora as well. Sharing accessories with my husband is pretty awesome.

Fedora wearing.  We're in good company.

Source: lookbook.nu via RJ on Pinterest

Source: classy-in-the-city.tumblr.com via RJ on Pinterest

How to ROCK the fedora.

Source: fashionworship.com via RJ on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via RJ on Pinterest

Source: kfgorgirl.polyvore.com via RJ on Pinterest

Hip, Hip, HOORAY for confiscating old styles and making them hot again (except for neon. I don't get why that's back. But I digress ...)

Things I Love: Art for a Cause

There was this amazing couple who used to go to our church (but moved--boo hiss!).  They have a heart for people--all people.  Any people.  This couple are the sort of folks who pick up hitchhikers and get them food and a warm place to stay.

Being around folks like this make me on fire and that is how I know the power of living LIKE Jesus because other people can and do see Him in you!

Anyhow, the wife half of this couple really has a heart to stop human trafficking and oppression.  And while we would likely all get on board with the concept, few of us actually do something about it.  I'm mean, it's just easier to eat sugar without wondering if a slave worked the cane farm or to buy our kids a Disney princess dresses without realizing some other 6 year old girl probably made it.

But not Heather and the folks behind The Canvas Story.

If you click the link above and check out their page, you'll learn that the mission and vision of The Canvas Story is simple:

Our Mission: Cultivating creative ways to combat human trafficking. Through our collective abilities,  passions and opportunities, we will research and execute strategies to bring freedom to victims of severe abuse/slavery.
Our Vision: To See individuals find healing and restoration from abuse, and to then help them pass that gift to someone else. To lower the demand for trafficking through raising awareness of the problem and cultivating solutions.

They encourage small steps, such as The 90 Day Challenge exchange one product you use (coffee, tea, etc.) for a fair trade/slavery-free option for 90 days help promote a public demand for ethically created products.

They also sell artwork to fundraise and support various projects. 

You could buy this and support a good cause.  Good decor+good cause=winning!

I love The Canvas Story!  

What I Think About: What the Aurora Guy Deserves

This is actually a re-post from a couple of years ago when Utah put someone to death.  I'd posted something on my facebook page and it started a firestorm like no other.  I had to delete comments because people were name-calling and cussing.  It was a disaster.

But I still maintain my position.

I'm against capital punishment.

I live 10 miles away from the Colorado border.  My dad has been doing cancer treatments in Aurora, Co.  Just two weeks ago I went to the movies in Aurora with my Aunt Blitz.

And then the news of the Aurora slaughterings came out and I've heard and seen enough to know what a senseless, tragic event that was.  In truth, I'm actually NOT reading or watching much because--in my opinion--the only thing worse for the families than dealing with the murder of a family member is hearing over and over about said murders.

Any how, I'm not a fan of the killer, obviously.  But I'm not hoping he gets capital punishment either.

Here's why.

Whenever capital punishment is mentioned, I hear the same arguments.

If we killed more people there would be less crime. 

Sadly research is conflicting.  The data in this research indicate that after an execution, there are 18 fewer murders.  The problem is, correlation does not equal causation.  The moon phases could play into those 18 fewer deaths just as easily.  Other data found there is no correlation because those who commit violent crimes rarely think of consequences prior to committing the crime.  It’s a draw. 

What isn’t a draw is the fact that since DNA testing has been used in courts, many people serving life sentences have been freed and 8 others have been “executed but possibly innocent.”  39 more executed people have been killed in the face of evidence that they were innocent.

Why do I mention this?  Because what I generally hear is my dad people saying, "even if it only deters one crime, even if it saves just one life, I'm for the death penalty."  In my estimation, being against the death penalty might save innocent lives as much, or more, than hoping for capital punishment to be a deterrent.  I guess I'd rather keep one proven and convicted killer in prison for life than "accidentally" killing a person who actually WAS innocent.

We save money killing criminals. 

Hate to say it, but WRONG-O!

One study counted death penalty case costs through to execution and found that the median death penalty case costs $1.26 million. Non-death penalty cases were counted through to the end of incarceration and were found to have a median cost of $740,000.   You do the math.  

Want more info on how much more money taxpayers pay to execute someone?  Click here.

Lethal Injection is humane.

Really?  For some reason I think the majority of humans fear death whether it is "humane" or not.  New data suggest that lethal injection is not as painless as first believed.  And it can be botched.  Actually, the man in Utah who was executed chose the firing squad because it is 100% effective.  The same thing can't be said of lethal injection.  Or the chair.  **Insert shudder here**

He Deserved It.

Don't even get me started on the systemic issues that skew capital punishment.  Borrowing from Thomas More, "We create criminals and then punish them." 

And as a Christian, ask me if I deserve the life of grace I'm living.  Nope.  

Does the killer deserve punishment and to reap the consequences of his actions?  Damn right he does.  Does that have to mean death?  Nope. 

Eye for an Eye

Ah yes, and now the religious excuse for capital punishment.  

It is true that you'll find this statement in the Old Testament (Lev. 24:19-21).  However, you have to look at it contextually.  In ancient days, punishments generally FAR exceeded the crime (think of stoning a woman to death for adultery--not exactly just.  Just would be her husband cheating on her.  Not killing her). 

The command, "an eye for an eye" was actually a call for mercy--that the worst you could do to someone was what they did to you.  This original command was set up so people wouldn't capriciously seek revenge and retribution.  The intent was to solve problems with justice--not revenge.

What I want people to know is that they can't throw Leviticus at me while forgetting Matthew 5:38-39.

You have heard it said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth." But I say to you, Do not resist and evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also.

Again, it is all about context. Jesus ISN'T saying we have to be pacifists and never defend ourselves.  He is saying "don't compete with an evil person through retaliation." Don't do to them what they do to you.  

Some other good New Testament stuff: 

• James 4:12 says God is the only lawgiver and judge who can take a life in the name of justice. 
• Romans 12:17-21 warns us against answering evil with evil and assures us that God will see to justice in the afterlife. 
• In John 8:7 Jesus points out that all humans are imperfect, and are therefore unqualified to decide whether someone lives or dies. 
• And a personal little favorite James 1:20: “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”

The Bible doesn't steadfastly say YES or NO to capital punishment (so it's probably best not to use the "eye of an eye" defense).

What I Think:

As a Christ following woman, I am against capital punishment.  I believe and trust that Christ came for the "least of these" and that He can redeem people (heck, look what He's done for me!). 

I believe this is a heart issue, not a salvation issue.  If you disagree, you certainly have that right but I personally can't reconcile "loving your neighbor as yourself"with capital punishment.   

What Do You Think?

Even if we disagree, I'd love to hear your side of this issue.  Respectful comments are welcome

~I trust we can all disagree without being disagreeable~ (Comments will be moderated as needed).

By the way, due to some "brave" name-calling at the hands of anonymous visitors, I've removed the possibility to respond to my blog posts anonymously.  If you really believe what you are saying, I trust you'd stand behind it enough to use your name (unlike Little Miss "Your a despicable American but I'm only saying that because you can't see me" from Utah!).

Days of Play: Shaving Cream

Shaving cream is one of those beautiful little things I love my children to play with.  When I put it on the table and they write letters and words in the squishiness, it ends up cleaning my table like nothing else can (WARNING: It might not be good for certain wood stains).

Obviously shaving cream is a perfect bathtub toy, too.  I like to get out a muffin tin, fill it with shaving cream, mix in some food coloring and hand it to the kids with a paint brush.  They'll spend 30 minutes "painting" my bath tub walls.  And when I wash of the artwork, my walls glimmer.

Child labor that's fun?  Winning!

Music Monday: Pop Evil

Pop is evil.  But it is pop--not soda.  It is never soda and I don't care what Little Miss Damn Good Food says about that!

Ramble, much?

While I actually abstain from the drinking of pop, I do partake of listening to Pop Evil, an American rock band from Michigan.  They've been around for a decade or so and I just dig their sound (and they've done some band member shifting).  I love their simple lyrics that cut straight to the heart. Plus, I like dark rock.


Monster You Made



Hero



Purple--My fave!

{Group} Date Night In: Fiesta Friday

My husband had to travel for his birthday.  Boo!

We celebrated early with a little fiesta at our house.

Getting couples over for food and fun is one of my favorite things (and I'm now humming that song from the Sound of Music.  Anyone else there?  Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens ...).

Now I know it's summer and you could just put together a little BBQ but why not spice it up, literally, with a Mexican themed party?

Hang up some bold colored decorations, throw together some taco fixings, break out the chips and salsa, stir together some margaritas, and tune Pandora to a mariachi station.  It's that easy.

Okay, so we had some adult cupcakes.  These are margarita cupcakes that I found on Pinterest (of course).

And we had some margaritas ... because what would a fiesta without margaritas be?  Oh, and if you don't like alcohol, you can blend limeade, water, and 7up for a fun virgin margarita!

A simple food spread.  Because simple tastes the best.

When we were done eating the ladies chatted it up and the fellas played Beersbee (also known, unfortunately, as Polish Horseshoes).

Somehow I didn't get a photo of it but I did have an ADULT pinata.  What's that?  Well, it's a pinata filled with stuff adults would like--cigars, nail polish, fancy chocolates, mini bottles of liquor, etc.  Did adults actually crawl on the ground to get goodies.  You bet your sweet sopapillas they did!

The best part of this group date party was that I planned and executed it in 3--yes that is right--3 days.

Things I Love: That Summer Song

I'm a music lover.

Shocking, I know.

There are many things I love about music but one thing I've always loved is the way a good song can just transport you to another time.  The way it can dredge up memories and feelings--how it can make hearts glow or tears flow.

For me there is one and only one ultimate summer song.

On Monday I was driving back from visiting a friend at the hospital when my summer song came on.  

I got this euphoric feeling where I was whisked back to a hot summer of tubing behind the Jus-T-Nuf on lake Michigan ... to early morning croquet matches with John and Martin ... to walking the long, long way to Lauren's house, past Jason Polano's house, just to see if he was outside ... to watching Father of the Bride over and over when the late afternoon sun made outside unbearable ... to changing the words of the song to tease my cousin.

My cousin.  

Jenny.

That euphoria vanished and I was overcome with this heartache that these memories were 19 years old ... and she's been gone for 15 of those years.

That summer song--it sends me soaring on the clouds of happy memories and keeps me grounded in reality that these days ... these summer days are like life ... too short to not enjoy.

That's why I love music ... especially this song.  My summer song.

And in honor of Jenny ... Jeeennnny, Jenny baby ... Jeeennny can you come out tonight?

What I Think About: Magic Mike (and Hypocrites)

Magic Mike--The male stripper movie sensation that wasn't.  At least, not really.  Seriously, a movie with a talking teddy bear did better than a movie about strippers.  I'm not sure if I'm relieved or appalled.

All I know is I'm not into it.

My sister and aunt tried to convince me to go watch the movie but I just didn't want to see it.  I told them they were welcome to go but it wasn't for me.

I've had a hard time explaining this because I'm not a prude and I like sex but I'm those things with my husband.  I don't want to go look at other men because it felt dishonoring to my man--the same way it would hurt my feelings if he went to a topless women's club.

Now I know some people are cool with this "look but don't touch" arrangement but I'm not.  And I know I see bare chested men at the pool but I don't go to the pool to watch them and I'm certainly not breaking down any doors to catch a glimpse.  When it comes to my eyes, I do my best to keep them on Matt only.

And then there's the feminist in me who was totally conflicted.  Women being powerful and asserting their sexuality is not a bad thing ... but doing it in the same way men have done it for years--by objectifying people--just didn't sit well with me.  We don't fight objectification with objectification.  Or at least we shouldn't.  Of course I know these actors chose to be in this film and were compensated for their time but it still didn't feel right .  Just like it doesn't feel right to me that compensating women prostitutes makes sex slavery right and justified.

I felt kind of alone if my anti-Magic Mikeness but then I read this blog by Melissa Jenna (<--click that link and read it).  I was wowed by the way she wrote the words of my heart.

There are many levels, spiritual and otherwise, as to why I didn't want to watch Magic Mike and it was comforting to know I wasn't alone.

One area in which I might differ with Melissa is that I'm a firm believer in "heart" issues and "salvation" issues.  Salvation issues are those things laid out in the Bible that are required for salvation.  Heart issues are those pressing topics for which God encourages His followers to question and these are different for everyone.  Some women, like me, struggle with sexual self-image and objectification, and as such--watching a show like Magic Mike could be incredibly harmful.  On the other hand, other women have struggles of the heart that are different.  And this is where grace comes in.  I'll give you the grace to watch what you want (and reap the consequences of those decisions) if you give me the grace to watch (or not watch) what I want (and reap the consequences of those decisions).

I will not and do not want to see Magic Mike for many reasons and I should not be made to feel like a prudish nun for my unwillingness to lust after half-naked men (who aren't my husband).  If your heart is not convicted like mine in on this topic, then I'm okay with that.  You watch what you want to watch; I'll do the same.

What I really hate is this movie is one more way to talk about Christians as being hypocrites because {some} Christians won't see a show like this but will ... divorce at rates similar to those not in the church ... blindly support religious politicians even when they don't walk the walk ... shut down abortion clinics without offering financial, emotional, and physical support to those with unwanted pregnancies ...

Let me let a BIG cat out of the bag.

ALL Christians--yes that's right--ALL CHRISTIANS are hypocritical.  Yes we say one thing and do another (there's even a Bible verse about that).  But you know what else?  EVERY other person in the world is a hypocrite.  Can you name one person {not a religious deity} who has always, in every circumstance, been totally straight-forward and who has never been a hypocrite?  How about the mom who tells her kid not to lie but then lies (in fun) about Santa at Christmas?  How about the Republican who wants to balance that budget but spends bazillions on a war?  Or that Democrat who wants equal pay for women and yet the women working in his White House make 70% of the men who work there?  Or the man who tells his child to be a good sport and then screams at the referee?

We are all hypocrites people.  Get over it.  Find a new argument.

What I think about Magic Mike is I am over it (and judging by the box-office slump, so is everyone else).  While I am open to conversations challenging one another in our beliefs about watching, or not watching, such shows and discussing what is (and isn't) pornography, I really hate the conversation focusing narrowly on how hypocritical Christians are without fully examining how hypocritical ALL people are.

Phew.

The end.