MAXINE FOR PRESIDENT

It's Monday so I thought I would post something from the controversial cartoon character Maxine. Maxine On Relevant 'Logic' (TIC)EDIT @ 11:46 PM TIC means "tongue-in-cheek"

Everyone concentrates on the problems we're having in this country lately; illegal immigration, hurricane recovery, alligators attacking people in Florida. Not me. I concentrate on solutions for the problems. It's a win-win situation.

1 Dig a moat the length of the Mexican border.

2 Send the dirt to New Orleans to raise the level of the levies.

3 Put the Florida alligators in the moat along the Mexican border.

Any other problems you would like for me to solve today?

Singing OUR National Anthem in Spanish? I'm sorry, but after hearing they want to sing OUR National Anthem in Spanish - enough is too much! NEVER did they sing it in Italian, Japanese, Polish, Irish-Celtic, German, Portuguese, Greek, French, or any other language because of immigration. It was written by Francis Scott Key and should be sung word for word the way it was written. The news broadcasts gave a translation that's NOT even close. Sorry if this offends anyone, THIS IS MY COUNTRY! Do YOU sing MY National Anthem in YOUR COUNTRY IN ENGLISH ? ? ? And, because I make this statement DOES NOT mean I'm against immigration!!! YOU ARE WELCOME HERE IN MY COUNTRY. Welcome to come through like everyone else has. Get a sponsor! Get a place to lay your head! Get a job! Live by OUR rules! Pay YOUR taxes! And...LEARN THE LANGUAGE LIKE ALL OTHER IMMIGRANTS HAVE IN THE PAST!!! AND PLEASE DON'T DEMAND THAT WE HAND OVER OUR LIFETIME SAVINGS OF SOCIAL SECURITY FUNDS TO YOU TO MAKE UP FOR ''YOUR'' LOSSES. When will AMERICANS STOP giving away THEIR RIGHTS??? We've gone so far the other way, bent over backwards not to offend anyone but it seems no one cares about the AMERICAN that's being offended!

We Have An Awesome God

We Have An Awesome God

Happiness keeps you sweet,

Trials keep you strong,

Sorrows keep you human,

Failures keep you humble,

Success keeps you glowing,

But..........

Only God keeps you going.

Power outage and your worst fear?

So when you are out and about and there is a power outage, what is the worst place that you could be? Going through an intersection, in a shopping store, next in line to order your latte or in an elevator?

Well, none of these would be good in my opinion but the last one is what happened to me on Wednesday night, 8.20.08. I was leaving a business meeting and as soon as the elevator started to descend my worst fear came to life. The power went out and there I was alone in an elevator in the dark! Of course the first 10 seconds I started to panic but then I took a deep breath and thought about it for another 20 seconds and decided that I wouldn't panic and tried to decide what would be the best first step?

Should I try all the buttons? Of course the power is out but what can it hurt...The alarm button worked and sounded. I kept pushing that for the next 2-3 minutes but nothing magical happened, so I stopped that.

Then I opened my phone for light and found a phone in a panel but it didn't say where to went to so I decided against trying that idea.

Then I remembered I was supposed to meet Mike at swim with the kids and that was obviously NOT going to happen. So I tried to call him but the call didn't go through. That was not encouraging! So a bit of panic again...I tried calling again and I did get through this time. I told him what happened and he asked have you called 9-1-1? No, I answered, I didn't think that was an emergency. Does this qualify as an emergency? He thought that it did and that I should call. OK. So I called and told the lady just that and she said that it did qualify and she would put a call into the fire dept. for me. Fortunately I had the address of the building in my purse.

So I waited for a while and then I heard a voice hollering down calling my name. Oh good!!!! It was the man from my meeting. He realised that I might have not gotten out and came to see if I was OK and if there was anything he could to help? I told him that the fire dept. was on there way and could he open the front door, the security system wasn't working, obviously. That being done he came back and told me that and asked if I wanted him to stay and talk with me. I thought that was very nice of him but I told him, no I'm okay.

Right before the fire dept. showed, Mike and the kids showed. Hudson was crying because he was scared I was hurt. Is that so sweet or what! I felt bad hearing him cry. My baby...

All totalled I was in there for an hour. It wasn't bad after I decided not to panic I just sat on the floor played Tetris and Wheel of Fortune on my cell phone. Al be it I didn't do well at either. The firemen could get the door unlocked and I was having a hard time concentrating on the games. When I did get outside the kids and Mike were waiting and hugs went around and Hudson felt better to see me. So, wow, we were all hungry and off to McD's to a late dinner.

On of life's experiences that you hear about and never really want to try for yourself. But it isn't as bad as your imagination makes it out to be....

Money Matters for the week of 8.25.08

DOUBLE CLICK ON THIS TO VIEW IT LARGER!

Some great info here!

17 Years...Oh my...

Mike and I celebrated our 17th anniversary on Sunday the 17th. A golden anniversary of sorts as Chloe pointed out to us. We went to dinner at our favorite place, DC's Steakhouse, then we proceeded to see the movie Henry Poole.

Which I for some reason thought was a romantic comedy and it was of a fashion but it was quite touching and real. I would recommend seeing it but bring a tissue.

We have been though more than most in our 17 yers but that has definately made me stronger as a woman and as a mommy. But there have been good times and lots of laughs in there also. Mike pointed out that we started dating when I was 17...THAT IS REALLY A SCARY THOUGHT FOR ME! AGH..how does the time go by so fast and how is that I don't remember what I did last Friday?

New housing law: The basics, 8-08

Help for our housing economy? It's no secret that President Bush signed a $300 billion housing bill into law last week. In addition to helping cash-strapped homeowners avoid foreclosure, the law aims to help first-time home buyers to jump start their search in a tough economy.

So if you're house hunting the law can mean a BIG benefit.

To boil it down to the basics: first-time home buyers get up to $7,500 tax credit. This basically means you get a 0% loan for 15 years if you buy a home between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2009.

Double click to see this fact sheet, on the law, larger.

Leavenworth trip August 4-6th, 2008

We went to Leavenworth for a family reunion from August 4th through the 6th. It was a short trip but fun. The main reason for the trip was the my Great Uncle John was celebrating his 95th birthday! He and his wife Irene live down in California and they came up to their daughters for this shindig. Sherry is my mom's first cousin and their daughter. The attendees were, Aunt Goof, Aunt Tubby, Aunt Betty, Uncle Bill, well really he is my second cousin but I call him uncle, Cory, Kim, Carol, Uncle John, Aunt Irene, Sherry, John, KrisJan, Linda, Mom, Poco, Chloe, Hudson and myself, and a few others who I don't know. It was a full house.

As is usual for our family there was lots of food, laughing and reminiscing over stories from Aunt Goof, Tubby and Johns' childhoods.

The kids had a great time seeing Aunt Tubby and Aunt Goof. Those two hold a special spot in the kids' hearts. Sherry's house is on a river and the kids and I went down there with Poco and explored, found gold flecks in the sand, saw a snake, waded in, BRRRR and threw rocks. On of which accidentally hit Chloe in the back of the head...that wasn't good but she is fine now.

Phenomenal Juggler, Chris Bliss

If you have never seen this vidoe of Chris Bliss juggling then you need to take 5 minutes out and watch this. It will put a smile on your face. He is amazing!! I have watched this so many times and every time I am just in awe of his talent.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4776181634656145640

ECO-FRIENDLY AVANT GARDENING

One of my favorite topics of conversation...Gardening and fun, new ways to make your garden your own. Similar to fashion, cuisine and interior decorating, the art of gardening is multi-dimensional. It is not composed simply of foliage and flowers, but rather definitive color schemes, textures, well thought out design and the use of quality products. From urban rooftop gardens to chic water atriums, a garden is yet another way to emphasize the beauty and ambiance of any luxury residence. With eco-friendly options becoming more luxurious and accessible, trends in the gardening world are changing for novice hobbyists and garden design experts alike.

THE LATEST TRENDS IN LUXURY GARDENING

used as a garden accent, foliage can now be used as the sole "ingredient" in your garden. Gardens can be created in virtually any environment. From the deserts of Dubai to mountainous regions of Colorado, these are a few of the latest trends moving up on the list of luxury garden design.

Container Gardens - Popping up everywhere in Manhattan brownstones and Los Angeles lofts, these gardens continue to gain popularity. Space can present a challenge, but creating a classic garden in a metropolitan area is possible. Tips: Grow plants up versus out. Honeysuckle, jasmine, ivy and herbs work perfectly. Terracotta pots are a great option for container gardens, as the clay absorbs water and keeps the soil damp longer, which means less watering. Even if you have plenty of space, you can use container gardens to highlight entertaining areas or line stairways or walkways.

The Foliage Craze - Colorful, variegated, bold and lacy are just a few words to describe this garden forward trend: foliage. With no concerns of a blooming season, foliage is growing in popularity. Gorgeous shades of bronze, plum, claret and brightly tinged yellows and greens allow you to create the perfect look. Formerly used as a garden accent, foliage can now be used as the sole "ingredient" in your garden.

Water Gardens - Does the idea of converting your swimming pool into a natural swimmable pond - complete with aqua foliage - sound odd? It is currently one of the country's hottest garden trends. Incorporating plant life and décor to mimic those of natural water areas in our ecosystem, these ponds are self-cleaning and offer a lake-like swimming experience, involving no harsh chemicals. Designers like Larry Santoyo - for Earth Flow Design Works - combine artistry and ecology, and can help you create functional garden design.

Edible Landscapes: New Rage in Haute Cuisine Edible gardens and landscapes are creating quite a stir as luxury home owners around the country are creating interactive, edible gardens. Besides enjoying the visual beauty, these gardens entice all five senses and allow you to prepare elegant meals with freshly harvested ingredients. The mixed greens salad with truffle oil dressing allows you to combine elements from your own garden and an undeniably lavish ingredient that continues to gain popularity: truffle oil. Mixed Organic Greens Salad with Truffle Oil DressingSalad Ingredients: 4-6 cups spinach, arugula or mixed greens 1 bunch fresh basil, lilac, oregano, calendula, gladiolus - components can be added or omitted, based on your garden's inventory. Dressing: 2 tbsp. white truffle oil 1 ½ tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil1 tbsp. champagne wine vinegar 1 ¼ tsp. fresh squeezed lemon juice Pinch of black pepper and sea salt Toss salad ingredients with dressing. Makes 4-6 servings. LUXURIOUS AND "GREEN" PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS

MosquitoNix is an environmentally sound solution for protecting your garden. A misting system is installed around the perimeter of your garden - a variety of custom and unique techniques are available. Mist is released 3-4 times a day, 45 seconds each time. Rosemary, cinnamon and lemon grass oils repel pesticides that can cause harm to your garden. Eco-friendly and 100% safe around children, pets, furniture and food - this solution is a great alternative to hazardous pesticides. Baume Du Jardinier (Gardener's Hand Healer) - If your hands have endured elements of water, wind, sun and dirt while gardening, this shea butter cream is the answer. Its light lemon scent and combination of chamomile, rosemary, mimosa and lemon balm aid in its healing power and protects hands. McCloud-Column Corner Fountain Garden Art - Incorporate your decorating style into your garden with these en vogue pieces: A stunning, copper column fountain designed by Hugo McCloud - who was featured at the Sundance Film Festival and San Francisco Garden Show Design Competition. His garden pieces are comprised of elegant details and eco-friendly materials. As evidenced by a growing celebrity interest garden gongs and bells are another en vogue option. Designed by Tom Torrens, these bronze and steel pieces add distinct flair to avant-gardens and are made with all natural components. Available at Water + Stone Gallery.

Simple Tips to Keep Your Garden "Green"

• Water in early morning and late afternoon. This allows water to soak in and not evaporate as quickly.
• Work with flowers that are indigenous to your region. They require less water and maintenance. Smith & Hawken offer insightful tips on selection process.
• Use drip systems, soaker hoses or sprinklers that have multiple settings, so the water isn't wasted on non-garden areas.
• Select flowers that attract bumblebees, hummingbirds or butterflies. These "friendly" creatures naturally help pollinate and propagate gardens.
• Select perennials to serve as your garden's "framework." Throughout the seasons, implement annuals for new color and fresh variety. This technique will help provide easy maintenance and the ability to incorporate new hues and styles.