An Sainghrúpa Machnaimh

Paleo fail. :(

2011-04-23T20:10:00.000-06:00

We had a good friend over last night and I dropped my self-imposed Paleo restrictions so I could eat some fresh, hand-crafted brats off the grill. They were so delicious! Granted, these brats were hand-crafted by a German butcher and did not have any nasty processed crap in them, but I had bread and beer.

This morning when I woke up I just felt so nasty and my body just felt weak. I did my workout anyway and it was so difficult. Tonight, I'm feeling infinitely better and am looking forward to being back on track. I am not feeling depressed or that I let myself down as I did make a conscious decision to go off Paleo so I could enjoy time with a good buddy I'd not seen in five or six years. We had a wonderful visit and it was cool to introduce my wife and family to him.

I am not doing Paleo solely to lose weight. I want to make that crystal clear. I am doing it to be healthy, live the way we were meant, to cleanse my body, and to gain the natural physique our bodies were meant to have, and to make sure I'm around a long time for my children. Yes, I will lose weight (and have in just a few days) and that's wonderful, but I am not obsessed with my body as much as I am concerned about my health and well-being. Here's to great times ahead!

Holy Yummy Paleo, Batman!

2011-04-22T07:57:00.000-06:00

Paleo at Penn mentioned in her 19 April, 2010 post titled Whole30 Finished! that she began cooking her eggs in coconut oil and began sprinkling coconut flakes on them. Now, I love eggs and coconut, but never imagined pairing the two. I decided to try the sprinkling thing last night and...well.. DANG! Yummy! I don't have coconut oil in the house at the moment, but will soon be buying some. My meal last night was at two egg omelette with fresh organic blueberries with coconut flakes. Not that there's already monotony, but I decided to make this for breakfast this morning and use a bit of nutmeg and black pepper as well.

I can't tell you how much I'm looking forward to continuing with this lifestyle. Good food that happens to be good for you is just a winner in my book. I, personally, think of it as more, "Food that's good for me and happens to taste GREAT!"

Paleo Kickstart

2011-04-21T14:07:00.000-06:00

I stopped posting here because just too much was going on in my life and I was somewhat disenchanted with everything. Well, I'm around once more. I found new work (with my old company under new ownership), my personal issues have been addressed, my back is much stronger than it was, etc. Life is as good as can be hoped for right now. Now that my back is stronger, I've been able to become a lot more active. The depression one can face not being able to be active for fear of severe pain is not to be trifled with-- nor can someone who has not been through it fully grasp the deepness of heartache. It really sucks. I'm able to workout in a real way again, I'm able to run (albeit I feel as though waddling is a more apt term due to my size now), I'm able to play with the kiddos and so much more. Soccer was always my love and I'm able to play once again. I also need to kick up my healthy eating a notch...or ten. I have always thoroughly enjoyed eating healthy. Now, thanks to a few friends, I've been lead to eat the healthiest, and intended, way one can! Enter Paleo! My friends Abe and Sara have mentioned a few times that they fairly recently began a new lifestyle. No, not a diet, folks. A lifestyle. I was somewhat hesitant, but I asked about it. I must admit that when I heard "Paleo" come out of Abe's mouth, I instantly started mulling over all my old history lessons in my mind. He figured as much and shared a little about the Paleolithic lifestyle. To be honest, it's not too terribly far from how I've preferred to eat most of my athletic life as pretty much every good athlete knows that natural food is best. Paleo, however, takes it a few steps further and teaches that just because it's natural, does not mean you should eat it. This is the part that most intrigues and interests me. I'm very much looking forward to this journey. I see the transition being quite easy for me. Paleo At Penn has a wonderful blog that has really inspired and informed me. I suggest a read...

Saudi Arabia needs to be sent a clear message!

2010-01-20T14:48:00.000-06:00

Read this ridiculous crap here: Saudi girl, 13, sentenced to 90 lashes for taking mobile phone to school.

Saudi Arabia and multiple other "allies" of the United States need to be sent a clear message regarding abuse and women's rights! The above article makes me sick. The government of Saudi Arabia is going to lash a 13-year-old schoolgirl 90 times and send her to jail for two months for having a concealed mobile phone. Sure, if it's against the rules then she should be punished, but not by being physically assaulted and abused in front of her classmates as the action is currently planned. If a country is to be our ally it is my firm belief that their human rights record and justice system should be above reproach-- as you can see from my previous post on China. Is the world really going to continue to sit by and watch as these tyrannous governments continue to abuse their citizens physically, spiritually, and emotionally? Come on, people! Wake up! I, for one, will continue reporting these atrocities and pressure our lawmakers and elected puppets (as that's all most are-- puppets) to address these issues. I am saddened that our current and previous presidents did nothing to address human rights and abuse of citizens with our so-called allies. If they want to be our ally they need to put an immediate and final stop to genocide (Chinese killing monks, Tibetans, and Christians), Muslim countries need to stop lashing and beheading people at the blink of an eye, etc. I seriously doubt that our current POTUS has the bollocks to even say a word.

From: Daily Mail

How screwed up is my city?

2009-08-21T08:29:00.003-06:00

Gardner claims to be out of cash and is making their City Hall workers cut back on hours and take mandatory unpaid vacations. Okay, I get it-- the economy is somehow hurting them. Wait! What was that I just saw pass me? WOW, it's a new Public Safety car... Hang on, there's another one...and another. Hmmm... did the city purchase new cars with all the money they say they don't have?

Really? Nothing gets me more fired up right now than the misuse of city, state, and federal funds. I don't believe that new police patrol cars are more important than paying your employees. The ones we had were just fine. Instead of helping those they have a responsibility to in way of a living they go and purchase new cars! Seriously, that's just plain crap. Pure and simple. I don't care if they got some stupid federal grant or whatever. The Feds should be giving money to the state and local governments so they can continue paying their employees instead of the tens of millions they allocate and give out for new equipment and vehicles. What's really more important? Basic logic and common sense says that they should keep paying employees so they can pay their own bills and put food on the table instead of helping make economic times harder. /rant

President, TV Personality, or Hollywood Elite?

2009-07-31T12:30:00.004-06:00

What is our President? Is he supposed to be the elected leader of our country who is supposed to make the tough decisions and protect our people and their rights? Or is he supposed to be a TV personality and Hollywood elite? I am so sick and tired of seeing our President playing the role of TV personality and Hollywood elite. He has yet to show me that he CAN be the POTUS. Even though I did not vote for him I would at least like to see him prove me wrong and fill his shoes. So far, all he's done is party, make TV appearances, make choices not other President ever would or should. He needs to stop doing this crap and be the man he was elected to be- President of the United States.

No more TV specials, no more moving the media into the White House, no more commenting on news and bringing people over for an apology fest all because you went and said something stupid. Be our President, please! Protect our borders-- close them off! Bring our boys home from Bush's needless and useless war. Prove me wrong, I beg you.

Guantanamo Bay Detainees to get laptops.

2009-06-01T06:59:00.002-06:00

When I read I was shocked to the core. Personally, I could not believe that those who have been held as terror suspects are now being doted upon by the very government that they once purportedly conspired against. Many true, patriotic citizens of our country (which they are NOT) cannot afford even a simple computer let alone a laptop. I do not agree with the existence of Gitmo at all, but I do believe these people were detained for some good reason. The only thing that we should do with them when they are to be released is kick them back to wherever they were picked up. They have already cost the taxpayers of the United States untold millions. Enough is enough...send them on their merry way.

I find it suspicious that our new President wants to give these people great big bear hugs and help them rebuild lives here in America. Great, now we can help raise the enemy from the inside. Gee, who needs national security. Heck, we can just give sleeper agents jobs, houses, computers, etc. Let's just save Al Qaeda the job of bankrolling that. We'll do it for them. I'm not opposed to at least covering the plane ticket back to Sandville and maybe reintegrate them into their own society, but screw giving them a life in our country where they might start their alleged activities under the cover of a new life in the country they were allegedly plotting against, not to mention that they were held without rights for years-upon-years. I can't say I would blame them too much for being a wee sore against the U.S. at this point-- which is another reason not to place them in our society-- for fear of backlash and retribution.

Well, there's my two cents.

Redistribution of Wealth.

2008-10-28T13:25:00.006-06:00

I tire so much of hearing people bashing redistribution of wealth. I am, by no means, an Obama supporter. Personally, I harbour quite a lot of disdain for the man. I get sick to my stomach each time I see or hear him. I would argue, however, that most people that fear a type of redistribution of wealth are those that are comfortable in life and living between well and quite well. I haven't been blessed with any type of wealth in my adult life. My first full-time job started when I was 14 years old. My hard work has never paid off in way of being comfortable. Each day I think of how close to destruction I am. I wonder often if my paycheck will be enough to pay my bills and put food on the table for my wife and children. We are even more tight than paycheck-to-paycheck- like so many other Americans. I have often thought of just ending my life because I feel like such a failure and know I will never get to live "the American dream". It's not for lack of trying- I have held as many as three jobs at once. For quite some time I was often only able to sleep two to three hours between jobs. Is that how someone should live? It's the norm for far too many American citizens. The sad part is that you have a better shot of living the so-called "American dream" if you are not a citizen of the United States by birth. Just immigrate here and our government will give you money, loans, grants, etc. If you are born here, you better hope you are either born into wealth or are left a bunch of money by someone- otherwise you are screwed. I, for one, believe that no-one should have to live like I do. I think that it's high-time that there is some change installed in our government and way of life of the American people.

Now, the only people that would argue against my point of view are ones that have been lucky and blessed with wealth- most of which probably did not even work hard for their money. Everyone should be given the chance to be happy. The wealthy of America that disagree with me should live a year in the average person's shoes. They should have to worry about food, the future of your children, the thought of having to pay for gas, wondering if your utilities are going to be shut off, working 70+ hours a week, etc. No, I am not a credit card fiend, as a matter of fact I have never used one. I am living for as cheap as I can and don't really get a chance to do anything for my family. My family has never been on a vacation. I get so depressed when I hear someone around me talking about their vacation. While they were gone away having fun I was slaving away trying to provide for my family. I am a terrible husband- I have yet to be able to afford a birthday or Christmas present for my wife. I am sick of it. It's time for change. It that change involves socialism or marxism- then, so be it. Cost of living should raise slower than increases in wages. Unfortunately, it's been the opposite for a majority of Americans for so long. Why can't we just change that? We regulate virtually everything else! Salaries should ALWAYS increase more than cost of living. I hate regulation, but sometimes I think some things should be if nothing else seems to work. Companies should be required to give raises that are a certain percentage above what the cost of living increase was in their area. I used to work for a Fortune 500 company that continues to pride itself for how much surplus money it had in the bank as cash assets. Want to know how they got that surplus? They paid the staff in my old department less than poverty level in the county in which it was based. That's how they got so much money. I knew people in that department (including me) that NEVER saw their families because they worked so many hours there and had other jobs on top of that. The Fortune 500 company I worked for FROWNED on people having second or third jobs while you worked there because it did not look good on them when their employees had extra jobs. The founders/admins of the company were billionaires on the list of the world's richest people. At the time there were less than 2000 employees. How wrong is that! I could go on and on.

It's not about creating jobs, but rather about fixing the ones that are out there and make them better paying jobs. For far too long employers have been allowed to underpay for jobs. Everything has been left to the employer. Now, there are some businesses out there that have adequately taken care of employees. Unfortunately, they are in the minority. Most employers- especially corporate ones- have been taking serious advantage of their power in the market and are underpaying and overworking most of their workforce. It's time for change. I see something seriously wrong when CEO's and other executives are becoming more and more filthy rich while the wealth is not flowing down to the real workforce. CEO's receiving massive bonuses in the millions and the everyday workers get crap. Totally unjust and unfair.

I apologise for the hastily written post, but am in a hurry and don't feel like proofreading it right now.

Edit:

People on the right-to-far-right seem to be much happier than those on the center-to-left. This is because they (people on the right are content in their own happiness and social standing. Whereas people in the center-to-left are more concerned about those not as "lucky" as the ones on the right. The ones in the center-to-right are concerned about the more unlucky people. So, they try to distribute wealth, abilities, and opportunities to them. If you have someone who is really good at something or has a great idea and wants to start a business, but does not have the ability, whether for reasons outside their control or not, to get a loan or grant those on the right would just be like, "Well, that sucks- there's nothing we can do for you." Whereas those in the center-to-left would say, "Well, let's see what we can do for you." rather than just turn them down for the loan or grant and give it to some rich guy who may or may not have as good an idea or chance of success.

Everyone should have equal right to success and prosperity- not just the lucky. If someone has been "blessed" with misfortune then it is the responsibility of others to give them that fair chance. Hard work is something I know all too well and no matter how hard I work I will apparently never be given the fair chance at social success. Being poor or unfortunate is unjust in human terms and amidst wealth and a great quality of life others are lucky enough to experience that can't be achieved solely based on your caste and the roll of the dice you had no power over makes it even worse. Currently, there are very well defined barriers between the classes in the United States. Those barriers must be torn down. Something needs to happen where everyone, once again, has equal rights to opportunities. I am not looking just for economic end-goals, but also equality of opportunity. If someone does not have any money or collateral then it is highly unlikely they can glide into the next highest caste. That's not equality. That's when either the government or distribution needs to kick in. Everyone should have the right to be prosperous, to succeed, and to increase their level and quality of life.

Chinese and the Olympics - Stupid!

2008-08-15T10:44:00.005-06:00

The Olympics should not have been held in China. Period. The government is nothing, but a corrupt, lying, cheating, piece of murdering crap. We all know that they are blatantly cheating, but since they are providing "official records" of age (that do not match that which was previously stated on their rosters online), etc. nobody can give their teams the boot. They are also waging a huge psychological war with the other teams- making them wait an inordinate amount of time before they start their sets, etc.

My opinion is this - I have nothing against the athletes as they are clearly very good and well disciplined (they should be after being groomed their whole lives in training facilities and kept away from their families). I do, however, have a serious problem with their government forcing some to join their teams, banning others for stupid reasons, and entering underage athletes. They may be winning medals, but they are losing the little respect and dignity they had on the world stage. This, coupled with their human rights record, makes them arguably one of the worst countries in the world. I suppose they can look back in twenty years and say, "Look at us! We won the most gold medals in the 2008 Beijing Olympics!" While the rest of the world looks at them with disgust and shame. I give all the other international Olympic athletes a nod of respect for doing what they can to keep their cool knowing that they were beaten by the host country's cheating teams. I should hope that they do not hold any ill feelings toward the Chinese athletes- as many of them have been forced to compete- through threats and oppression. At least one has been forced by the government to recant her love and end the relationship she had with another athlete, but also made to join the Chinese team.

While their soldiers are out shooting peaceful Tibetans on the mountains their athletes are competing in the Olympics. Despicable. Of course, their state-run news is stating that the Tibetans attacked them. Shenanigans! Tibetan pilgrims on their way to see the Dalai Lama, their exiled religious leader, would never raise a hand against anyone- that is COMPLETELY against their belief system. Their peaceful nature is clearly demonstrated in the below video. As you watch them being fired upon the line just keeps moving. Their minds are set on reaching their leader, to pray with him for strength and a peaceful life. I'm sure their hearts were hurting for those friends and family who were killed or captured by the Chinese troops, but their journey could mean a peaceful new life for all of them.

May China feel the international repercussions for many years to come. May their teams be forever tainted by what they have shown themselves to be- cheaters. And may the world cry out for a new Chinese government- one who does not cheat; execute anyone they wish; murder innocent people; persecute anyone who does not believe what they are told to believe; and does not beat, imprison, and murder Christians or anyone else of a different faith. Grow up, China. Your Communist days are no doubt numbered.

chinese soldiers shooting tibetan
Uploaded by TAII

It's been a while.

2008-07-16T19:06:00.002-06:00

I know it's been a while since I have added anything on here, but there's not much really going on. My summer has been rather boring overall. Work is going quite well. Unfortunately (well, fortunately for him and others), my boss and good friend is leaving the company to pursue bigger and better things- he's answering the call in his life to once again be a pastor. I wish him well in this holy calling. He's a great guy and God will use him for great things, this I know.

I would like to go camping this summer, but I don't believe it will happen. My wife and I will be very soon welcoming our son, Rhys Charles Buis, into our family. Sarah is due on 26 July, 2008. We are naming him after both my father, Charles (Chuck), and his great uncle, Charles (whom my father is named after), who was lost in World War II. He was never found. We would like to honour the memory of fallen hero of our country as well as honour my father- who has worked so hard to raise me and give me everything I need to succeed in life as a man, father, son, and Christian.

Well, that's pretty much it for now.

Past life experiences and quantum physics.

2008-06-09T12:52:00.003-06:00

_____
*** Disclaimer***

I am in no way an expert in quantum physics. I just have some theories (I don't know if someone else has already come up with them or not) about quantum physics and past lives and the paranormal.
_____

I know that my way of life tells me that I cannot believe in past lives... and I do not. I don't believe that our spirits have lived other lives. I do believe that we can still experience someone else's memories. I strongly believe that there is something in our makeup that triggers the download of a memory stored in the environment.

When someone passes away their heart has stopped, but the brain can flicker with electrical pulses up to several hours. What is contained in these bursts? Obviously, it's doing something. I think that activity is our brain transferring its memories and other data to the environment. Think of all that you see around you- it's so much more than just a mass of electrons, atoms, quarks, neutrons, etc. It's a vast interconnected network.

It's entirely possible that memories of all who lived are stored in space. If, for some reason, a series of events occurred and your brain downloaded a few of them- whether you know it or not- you could mistake them as a past life. Now, you only have a quick scene or picture of the memory, but it's enough to make you question what's going on. Since the brain stores information with a feeling attached you know that it's not actually a dream, but a memory.

Quantum physics allows for these possibilities and in a lot of ways I think the study lends credibility to my theory. Now, there's much more to my thoughts, but I don't want to bore anyone. Let me know if you are interested in speaking further.

deodra@gmail.com

Israel, Bush, United States, Hamas, Palestine

2008-06-05T09:55:00.006-06:00

Israel, Bush, United States, Hamas, Palestine:

What are the first words or thoughts that come to mind when you read those words? I should think that peace is not the first thing that comes to mind. What does? Personally, I think, "Chaos. Mass chaos." Israel obviously has many enemies in the world today, but let's call them out for what they are- terrorists. Israel should have every right to defend itself. Palestinian (and other) terrorists have done enough damage. We should, in my opinion (later you will see that I don't say this lightly), assist Israel in the full destruction of Hamas- a terrorist organisation masquerading as agovernment. They are nothing, but cowards, murderers, terrorists, and criminals.

At this point, I need to bring up the fact that Palestinians did vote Hamas into power. Now, for the most part, it looks like they are regretting that decision. I have been reading and hearing that Bush has not done enough to help alleviate pressures in the area by not giving much of an ear to Hamas. Come on, people! Wake up! I am not the biggest Bush fan, but I can't agree with him more on this subject. Hamas is a TERRORIST organisation. Why the heck would we give them an ounce of respect- let alone an ear and voice in real government talks. If Hamas wants what is best for the people they control and represent then they should step down and let the people vote into power a proper governing body.

I am hardly for our government meddling in other people's affairs, but if we are asked to join in then I think we should. Otherwise, we need to worry about our own problems. If we are asked to assist somewhere you better believe that the other country needs to foot at least part of the bill. I have no interest in paying toward fixing problems somewhere else. My tax dollars are meant to help me and my people. Some may say that sounds selfish. You know, no it's not. We have too many things here in America that need to be worked on to spend my money elsewhere. We have a gas crisis on our hands, outrageous natural gas prices, people can't pay their bills, grocery bills are going WAY up, and home foreclosures are skyrocketing. So, I think we should spend the hundreds of BILLIONS of dollars here to help our own people instead of on a stupid war or meddling in other people's affairs that gains the American people absolutely nothing. A few rich people (oil tycoons and government contractors) are going to become exponentially more wealthy, but the American people as a whole are still suffering.

Naps

2008-05-27T15:30:00.001-06:00

I may be the only person alive that hates naps, but I do.

I just can't stand the idea of wasting precious daylight and time with a nap. Sure, I have taken a few of them from time to time- mostly when I was sick. If there is still daylight I feel like I should be working and not wasting time with sleep.

I have always felt this way. I imagine it was the way I was raised. I am a big believer in that a hard worker is rewarded. A lazy person is a waste of space. Does anyone else feel the same way I do?

VerveEarth

2008-05-25T23:23:00.003-06:00

Check out VerveEarth!

I received an e-mail the other day regarding VerveEarth. If I am honest, I saw it and thought it to be more spam. I gave it a look, however, and found it to be a really cool (and useful) site. I now see it as a really helpful and fun tool for bloggers- we can locate other like minded people and see what's going on around the world from the view of the people and not of the media (we all know how that goes), the list goes on... So, if you blog then I would recommend that you join VerveEarth.

Boycott the Olympics

2008-03-25T09:34:00.003-06:00

It used to surprise me that we did nothing about China's human rights atrocities, but not anymore. I can't believe that I ever voted for Bush. His latest idiotic move has been to agree to go to the 2008 Olympics in China. You know, he used to go on and on about the violations that were committed in Iraq, but where are the speeches about what's currently happening in China and Tibet. People are getting mowed down one after another just for protesting a foreign occupation of their country and Bush decides to go to the Olympics at the request of the guy at the head of it all. Seriously!

I am going out on a limb here, but I believe that all athletes that go there for the Olympics are selfish losers. Bush says we should not boycott it because it would be against the Olympic spirit to do so. That's a bunch of crap. Winning a medal there will only show the world that you care more about yourself and your ego than you do the people who are getting murdered in cold blood by a Communist regime.

I read this story today and I very much appreciated the comments of those that see the correct side of things- that China should be held accountable for their actions. I only wish that more people around the world start opening their eyes and take a stand against China and the Olympics that are to be held there. Why would we want to pour money into a country that is so oppressive? If we don't take a stand now then I could easily see us heading down the same path as China. I already see bits of our rights being stripped away here little by little...

Awesome video about the REAL Hillary Clinton.

2008-02-05T11:54:00.000-06:00

So, I was running around on YouTube this week and found this video by videopatriot. Check it out:

Marines NOT Welcome- COMPLETELY WRONG!

2008-01-31T16:31:00.000-06:00

I must vent about this...

Marines are not welcome

This is absolutely horrendous. I cannot believe that our government is standing for this. This is a complete outrage. I believe that any city that stands for dishonouring our government, military (including our servicemen), or our laws should be federally reprimanded including and up to being cut off from federal funding. Anyone that swears into a governmental office at a local or state level and openly stands against anything that is instituted and/or endorsed by the federal government should be removed from office and given severely punished with a prison stint or (in my opinion) executed for treason. Yes, I do mean that. It is absolutely wrong that a state, city, or person in office can commit such crimes, yes, crimes.

My personal viewpoint on the Iraq war, as most of you know, is not one that would usually be associated with the above comments. I do, however, support and appreciate all our troops do. They are not only doing their job, they are protecting that which was built by those who came before them. Anyone who walks into a recruiting office knows the dangers that may lay ahead. It does not matter what war we are fighting. They are obeying the orders of their Commander-in-Chief and a war that was approved by the House and Senate- therefore, approved by the people. If you come out in public and picket the war, the troops, or the government then you should be either placed in custody and sit in a jail for a while or be hanged or shot on the spot. Being unpatriotic is, in my eyes, is the same as treason. That said, being unpatriotic (not supporting your country) should land you in jail, prison, or on the gallows.

Bella- absolutely wonderful.

2007-10-29T11:15:00.000-06:00

This past Friday night my wife and parents wanted me to go with them to see the movie, Bella. I was less than enthusiastic about seeing this particular movie as normally I am not too keen on dramas. Well, I obliged them and went along. When the movie first started I still was not very thrilled about being there. I slowly began enjoying the movie little by little. Roughly twenty minutes in I was completely drawn in. I loved the way the plot unfolded and how you felt so close to the characters. You felt their pain, you laughed with them, you even cried with them. Yes, I cried with them.

Director, Alejandro Monteverde outdid himself this time. Bella was sharp, thought inspiring, and touching. I found myself battling my own emotions throughout the film. Often, I was sitting in my seat asking myself the same questions the characters were asking themselves. What would I do? How would I feel? Who will know? Why? Bella was just an absolutely wonderful film. It has my support as a moviegoer and a person.

I would advise everyone to make some time in your busy lives to see this film. It deals with real-life issues in a real way. If you have teenagers at home- take them to this movie. Afterwards, take them out for a coke and talk to them. Get their feelings, impressions, and thoughts. You may just be surprised what you hear.

See the Official site here.

Burma, Monks,Demonstrations, Violence, Murder... Where's the outrage and responce?!

2007-09-28T14:19:00.000-06:00

During these last few days the problems in Burma have really come to light for the whole world to see- again. The military government there has crossed the line with the recent massacre's and crackdowns on their citizens. Murdering, violence, arrests, human abuses, etc have escalated beyond anything that should be allowed or tolerated by other nations. We cannot ignore that the Burmese government has committed unforgivable atrocities and human abuses. Yes, many in our country and abroad have "taken the time" to give public comments to the world via media outlets, but that's not action. It's high-time that someone, anyone do something about this. We as a world are just standing on the sidewalk of life while watching as many thousands of others are being run over and killed in the street. Where do we draw the line? When is enough, enough? I am thinking a frightening thought- what if they had oil we needed? I think we would, then, have an excuse to go in and depose the leaders who are ordering these killings and crackdowns. Funny thought, really, that this may really come down to, "What do they have that we need?". If the Burmese had some kind of resource that First World countries needed or relied upon I think that we would be more prone to act on this. Another great example is North Korea. People are getting killed for the most ridiculous reasons, they are imprisoned for looking at the wrong person the wrong way, the masses are starving and have nobody to speak for them, but we just sit around and do nothing. Why? Well, what does North Korea have that we need? Nothing. So, let's just ignore them. Darfur and other atrocities caused by rebels and decades of inter-cultural/inter-tribal warfare. We have yet to intervene and quell the fighting with a mass immobilisation of troops to actively pursue the murderers. Iraq. They have oil. So, we go in to remove a dictator that can't begin to come close to the other leaders of the aforementioned atrocities, but Iraq does have oil. Interesting. Some of you will disagree with me on everything. Some will at least think about what I am saying. Still others will see the truth in what my thoughts are.

Good reading: Free Burma

Iran.

2007-09-26T14:52:00.000-06:00

I am getting quite sick of hearing everyone whining about Iran. Just about everywhere I go I hear something about Iran. Well, my opinion is one that most people do not hold- it is to just leave them alone.

I am quite sure you are already rambling on and on in your head about how crazy I am, but seriously- it is Ahmadinejad's country and he can do with it what he will. If he wants to enrich uranium for power or for use in a weapon- then let him. It's quite the same for us to do it- are we to say we can do it, but you can't? Why? Because we will not use it as a weapon? Clearly, we have demonstrated that we would, in fact, use nuclear bombs against people- Nagasaki? Hiroshima? I don't quite believe that we would not do it again. Besides, the world is full of empires and all they want is to be left alone to pursue their own endeavors. It that means building weapons- go for it. All nations should have equal opportunity to build their own weapons and armies. It is not the responsibility of the United States to tell people what they can and can't do in their own country. We should mind our own business. There's plenty here we should focus on and spend our money on. Let everyone else alone and focus on what's screwed up here- healthcare, the homeless, KATRINA VICTIMS and their housing/financial/job problems that the government should fix, etc. We should not be spending money on spying on other countries, wars, or other crap- we have our own fish to fry back here.

In conclusion: Focus less on stupid things around the world and worry about what's going on back home. If Ahmadinejad wants to do something in his own country- let him. It's like another world leader telling Bush that he can't do something back here because it "looks" threatening, etc. Who cares?!

Edit:

My point is not to say I support any particular country with what they do- any country should be free to do what they will, but they also with be held to account for what they do. There's a cause and effect. A beginning and end-result. My point is to say, "Stop whining, folks. If we don't like what someone else is doing- give them a warning. If they don't stop the 'objectionable' behaviour- take them out. I am sick and tired of hearing and reading whining. Just give a warning. If it falls on deaf ears then take them out- simple as that. There's no diplomacy in war- you go in, get the job done, and ask questions later. Don't flippin' put all these rules and regulations on soldiers, Marines, or their commanding officers. They know what they are doing- let them do it and move on to other tasks and missions. Marines are there to take out the enemy- not to run peacekeeping missions or to make arrests.

In regards to the Iran vs. Israel conflict- let them duke it out. Israel has the guts to do what needs to be done, in my opinion. The U.S. and the U.N. need to pull their heads out of their collective butts and let Israel step up and be the Man in this. It's clear that diplomacy means jack-crap in this situation. End of rant.

Halo, Halo, Halo...

2007-09-06T17:10:00.000-06:00

Halo is obviously has a world-wide cult following- this cannot be argued. I was playing Halo 2 the other day with some friends when it dawned on me- how do people get so good? I have been playing for a quite a while, but cannot imagine how much some people play to where they can run around with a sniper rifle and "no-scope" players right and left. If you are not too familiar with Halo then let me explain. "No-scoping" is when you run around with a big 'ole sniper rifle and don't need to use the scope to aim and pick people off with one shot. It's nearly impossible to do this accurately and efficiently yet some people are great at it. Amongst my friends I would say I am about in the middle when it comes to skill at Halo. One of my friends, Lockvine, is unbelievable when it comes to grenades. Plasma grenades, in particular, are his favourites. Plasma grenades, also commonly known "sticky grenades," essentially stick to a player or vehicle and have a few second delay before they blow your world to pieces. Lockvine can consistently lob a grenade at you from across the map or right in front of your face- it doesn't matter- he will kill you with one. Another favourite tactic of his is to beat you at your own game- by this I mean- he will figure out your tactic and use it against you. This is not to say that his tactic is dirty, but it does suck to be beat at your own game.

Lockvine has one fatal flaw- he sucks with energy swords. "Sucks" here is used loosely as he could kill about anyone with these wonderful, undulating purple blades of delight, but I have a sort of knack at owning people with these beautiful hand-held objects of death.

Our battles still rage.

On a second note, I found a terrific site- XBConnect.com. The creators of the site have written a top-of-the-line program that allows you to legally trick the Xbox into thinking it is playing a local LAN game when, in fact, you are connecting via the internet to other players around the world- and it is FREE! Yes, that's right- FREE! They have a Premium package (XBCONNECT PRO) that can be purchased for $14.95(US) that gives you a few extra features that the standard free package does not. I have heard of a couple of other "free" internet gaming tunneling titles for Xbox, but most of my friends said they pretty much blow. I find that XBConnect is fast, easy to use, and provides you with a multitude of gaming choices and options. I also believe that they can pride themselves with a great community. One of the reasons I did not end up purchasing Xbox Live was that most of the people I encountered in the Halo rooms were rude, arrogant, cheating, glitch-using pieces of garbage. I did encounter a few nice folks, but for the most part the previous statement holds true. XBConnect users have all been quite kind, albeit VERY skilled at Halo, and willing to put up with someone who does not have the time to play hundreds of hours a month and can't get to fifty kills in ten minutes. I would suggest this software to anyone looking to either get around M$'s stupid fees, the jerks in most of the community rooms, or if you are just wanting to join a better community (in my opinion). Also, I would say that the $14.95 is a small fee to pay for an awesome online gaming experience- also- XBConnect supports an array of titles (please see below). I, for one, am considering upgrading to the Premium package.

XBConnect Supported Titles

Iran, any other country+Nuclear Capability= Fair in my book.

2007-07-10T12:31:00.000-06:00

I am quite sure I am going to take a lot of heat for my beliefs, but I don't really care. This is going to be quick today... Basically, I do not see a problem with other countries have nuclear capabilities. Before you start in on me- yes, I do see your side of the story- if a country demonstrates that they may use their nuclear weapons for ill-intent then we don't want them to have them. Blah, blah, blah. Personally, my belief is we have to see the world as one even playing field. If one country (i.e.: the U.S.) can have nuclear weapons then everyone else should be able to as well. I think that the U.S. and the joke that is the United Nations saying who can and cannot have weapons is completely ridiculous. I have heard it all before in regards to, "Well, we would not use them irresponsibly like they would..." I don't even want to hear it. Have you not seen the news or turned on the radio? Look at the Iraq invasion. That was irresponsible and pointless. What if someone decides they want to extend their empire and we don't want them to? Well, let's just whip out 'ole Big Bertha and shoot her at them. How the heck are they to defend themselves? We are extending our empire and sphere of influence. Seriously. If Iran wants to make bombs- let them. If you want to strike at them for doing so- well, that's your right. Either do something about it or sit down and shut up. There should not be some big Club of the Rich Guys (United Nations) telling the little guy what to do. It has always been about empires. Kingdoms rise and kingdoms fall. Every empire wants more land and superiority. That's the way it works.

Please don't get me wrong- this is not just about Iran- quite frankly I don't care too much for Iran or the way they do things. I actually hope someone does attack them. I am just sick and tired of reading all about empty threats and countries whining about, "this guy did this, and they did that". Really, come on folks. If someone is doing something to you, your borders, or developing something with the intention of using it in an unfair or unbalanced attack- don't whine. Blow them sky high with what you have before they have what you don't or don't want them to. Stop crying to the lazies and crazies that are the United Nations. Just take matters into your own hands and find the guys that agree with you. Pick yourself a nice strong team and start playing Battleship with them.

Since we have already invaded Iraq and are still dealing with suicide bombers and other cowardly combatants we should just stop wasting time and level the place. Evacuate and search anyone who does not want to be a crispy fritter and just bomb the crap out of every city that has played a part in attacks, start the rebuilding process and then proceed to flatten any other city that attacks take place in. People can pro-create their population will eventually recover. Once this is done just hand the keys over to the Bush-installed government and let them sort things out. Simple, saves American lives, and if things continue we just blow up the entire country. Problem solved and nipped in the bud.

News article about Iran's developments

Sentence Commuted

2007-07-03T08:56:00.000-06:00

I had just arrived to work this morning and decided to check Drudge Report before I really got started with my day. There were a few that caught my eye, but none so much as this one- Libby's Sentence Commuted by Bush. I could not believe my eyes! It's outrageous! If a regular "Joe Blow" off the street were to do what Libby had done he would have been behind bars long ago. It just sickens me that the people at the "top" get all of this special treatment. They could commit just about any crime and get off with maybe a simple smack on the hand. I guess Bush has pretty much decided that he is going to do whatever he pleases as he does not have another shot at the White House and apparently does not care too much about justice or what is right- just look at the Amnesty Bill he so fervently pushed (and failed- thank goodness). The Amnesty Bill was probably the biggest joke of his stay in the White House and also something that not too many people really wanted to pass- even many of the Republicans that still back him. His actions of commuting Libby's sentence and bashing on America for not wanting his stupid Amnesty Bill just show me that he does not really care about justice or what the majority of America wants- it does, however, show that he is willing to step on the feet of American justice and those that put him in the Office in the first place. I can't say that that's the kind of person I want in office. Granted, during the presidential elections was one of the few times I have actually voted for something (political) and I voted for him. I wish I had known that he was going to invade foreign countries, kill innocent people, misappropriate federal funds to a war machine that should not be running in the first place, try to allow illegal immigrants (foreign invaders) to pay to stay (and offer amnesty to future ones), and commute a sentence for one of his buddies. Dang, I want to work for the Administration! I can do whatever I want and get away with it!

Cities of the Underworld

2007-07-02T17:16:00.001-06:00

Okay, so- one of my favourite TV shows at present is Cities of the Underworld. The show, in short, is about literally just that- cities (or ruins) that are below ground that the every day person has no clue are there beneath their feet. The show started off on the right foot. It had great content, great locales, and an awesome host in Eric Geller. Eric was enthusiastic, exciting to listen to and watch, and had something about him that just fit the show and the crowd that watched it, at least I thought... Well, apparently, the History Channel higher-ups did not care for the host that at least 85% of the viewers liked and came back watching week after week. They decided to bring in "new talent" in Don Wildman. Yes, that's right- they brought in the Head and Shoulders guy to replace the incredible Eric Geller.

Sure, Eric sometimes became a wee bit loud and maybe even a bit forced in his words or acting, but I can't say that I would not act in the same manner! I am so captivated by history, other cultures, and the unknown that I, too, sometimes become over zealous.

I am not saying that I don't like Don Wildman, I am just saying that I don't think he is right for the part and that the History Channel could do well with leaving the programming alone for once. Or, at least listen to the majority of the people that post on their forums. I believe that forums are a great place for the decision makers (or at least information compilers) to gather a wealth of information. The people that post on forums are the ones that really keep the shows going and the opinions of the majority in a forum nine times out of ten represent 90-95% of the opinions of the viewing audience. I'm sure that any of you that are reading this and post on forums would agree. An entity, whether it be a TV station or any other company, should listen to the forums and model programming or products after what is wanted from the people in the forums. If this is done, I would be willing to bet the product or program would be successful.

Praise!

2007-06-25T22:53:00.000-06:00

My little sister and her friend have pretty much settled into their new home in East Asia. They are there teaching and living their lives the way Dad wants them to. I am so proud of them! I ask that you all talk to Dad for them and ask that he send lots of good mail to them.

They are eating quite a bit of "unusual" food, but are managing well! My little sister is a coffee freak and just bought a Love Coffee shirt with a bunch of different cups of coffee all over it. If you knew her you would know how fitting that shirt really is for her!

Growing up in a town named after the big jolly guy...

2007-06-25T11:35:00.000-06:00

Well, I was sitting on facebook earlier going through some profiles when I noticed that some of my friends from the town I grew up in created a group that I would have loved to have had when I was a kid. The group is called Yes, I actually live in a town named after a fictional character... and cracks me up. When I was a kid my friends and I that lived in the Village (Christmas Lake Village) were teased just about every time we left our general area and someone asked us where we were from. I hated people asking me this as I knew that I was going to have to put up with jokes and laughter. On occasion, I had to sit and explain to people that I was not kidding. I grew to hate the questions- I would avoid them at all cost. Sure, some of my best years were spent in Santa Claus, but I still hate the teasing and explaining that goes along with being from there. It's just a city name for crying out loud! Sorry- had to vent for a second. In all honesty, it was and is probably the best place to raise your kids. The city is gated, VERY low crime rate (if any at all), and it is one of the few places where you can feel safe leaving your doors unlocked. Kids can even ride their bikes around without parents having to worry about them...

China and other countries filtering internet use...

2007-06-19T10:07:00.000-06:00

Good morning! I was just sitting here reading an article on Drudge Report when it just hit me- I hate state censorship. The article, found here on Reuters, is about China and the ongoing "Great Firewall" problem. My personal opinion is that if people want to browse the internet as they wish then they should be freely allowed to do so. Blocking such sites as Flickr is pointless and wrong. China also blocks any searches that would reveal how terrible their government has been to its own people, news from the outside world, and anything else they deem "unhealthy" for their people to see or read. If the Chinese nationals really knew how bad their government has been they would probably revolt- that's the only reason that comes to mind as to why China employs tens of thousands of people to do nothing, but search and block. These people must be very well paid- or threatened- in order to keep secrets from their own people and block information that should be readily at their fingertips. I think that all of the big internet corporations should just drop or block access to China as a whole and starve the Chinese government into submission. Something really needs to be done regarding China's laws, policies, religious intolerance, etc. before they should be allowed to do business with the rest of the world. Tolerating or pushing the issues under the rug, in my eyes, is completely wrong and should not be done. There are big problems there and they need to be addressed. Bar international trade, place sanctions on them- I don't care, but resolve the issues or place them behind the economic curtain until they change or disappear from the world's eye for another 1,000 years- preferably- change.

We are already at odds with several countries- why not just add another one to the invasion/action list? While we are at it we can stomp out all the slaughtering by rebels in so many African countries, blow up any and all countries that are participating in drug smuggling, any country that thinks ill of us, etc. Let's just change the face of the planet...wait.... most of those countries don't have the oil we want- that's right, sorry- I got carried away there for a second. We want oil. That's why the "Great Firewall" and murdering and smuggling and slaughtering and atrocities are allowed to persist- because they don't have oil. Bummer- and I just thought we cared for a second there. Oops.

Hamas, Fatah, Fighting, Executions- INTERVENTION!

2007-06-14T09:20:00.000-06:00

I am sick and tired of reading how all of these Islamic radicals are getting away with executions, murder, and general dishonourable fighting! Today I read an article that just brought deep sadness to my heart. Please click here for the article.

Unfortunately, I could not redistribute or copy and paste the article.

Essentially, Hamas murderers overran an important Fatah building and started dragging men out in the street, throwing them on piles of rubble and were executing them in front of their wives and children. This has got to stop. The U.S. and other countries either need to send their troops in and crush this terrible behaviour and movement. If they don't send in troops then they need to step back and allow Israel to do whatever they need to. Reading this and knowing that the world leaders just sit around and don't do anything about it sickens me. In my eyes neither group is any better or worse than the other, though Fatah is a little less extreme.

Unfortunately, all I can really do is pray for these men, their families, and for the leaders that really want to do something, but are not allowed to because of some diplomacy crap. Realistically (and thankfully), prayer is the most powerful weapon.

Please pray with me for the Palestinians, Israelis, Hamas, and all others that are directly or indirectly involved in this ongoing bloodbath. Yes, pray for those that are committing these atrocities. Pray that the one true God- the God of Abraham, and of Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers- would work in their lives and hearts. Pray that they would not only see what they are doing is wrong, but that they would come to know the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Pray that they would become our brothers in the Lord.

The bike...is running!

2007-06-13T13:31:00.001-06:00

I was finally able to get the bike running last night! It took quite a bit of work- taking the carbs apart and cleaning them, new plugs, new coils, cleaning wire contacts, a new battery, etc. She is, however, running now. I still have to fiddle around with the air/fuel mixture to get her running right. I also just purchased new carb boots and vacuum plugs- as both the boots and vacuum plugs are shot and need to be replaced. I will, of course, have to readjust mixture again after I replace these.

I have quite a bit of fun and a wee bit of frustration in getting the bike running, but the end result has been sweet and can only get better.

Finally bought a new bike! Well, used....

2007-06-07T14:39:00.000-06:00

I finally purchased another bike. I have a love of being on two wheels that I can't quite describe. I am typically drawn to classic Honda's, but this bike, a Kawasaki, opened my eyes a little wider. It is a 1977 Kawasaki KZ650 and she is beautiful. Unfortunately, due to poor maintenance she needs a little love. I have already taken the carbs off- all four- and cleaned them thoroughly. My friend and I also broke even deeper into the bike and worked on the starter (which needs to be replaced) and found that both ignition coils are junk as well. This is going to cost me a bit of money, but she is worth every penny. The first time I rode this bike I could not believe they way it sounded and how fast it accelerated. It has four-to-one headers, cone air cleaners, a mean growl, and few other modifications. It is every bit as fast as some of the 750's I have ridden from that period.

After a bit of work I am sure she will serve me well for many years to come.

If you happen to know where I can get these parts for cheap (or free) please let me know as I don't have a tonne to spend on it.

I can't wait to get it back on the road!

Homeland Security or Homeland Spying? You be the judge.

2007-06-01T16:51:00.000-06:00

Several of my friends and I are consistently debating just which it is- Homeland Security or Homeland Spying? My personal opinion is that there is no Homeland Security without homeland borders. Earlier, I spoke about Bush's new thrill- the Amnesty Bill. This, in a way, goes along with that. Please explain to me why we are spending billions upon billions of dollars on Homeland Security, yet if I go down to Nogales, Arizona I can just chill in a lawn chair and watch illegals running through the tunnels coming into the U.S. every ten minutes? I mean, come on. Is that Homeland Security? No, it's not. Homeland Security could give a flying flip about our border problem. They care too much about spying and potential terrorist threats than they do about actual homeland security. If the agency was really worried about homeland security they would take care of our borders. Let the CIA and FBI worry about terrorism. Get with the program people! I could run to Wal Mart and for $200 purchase a Remington knock-off and a box of shells and take care of the problem with our borders. I don't need the billions of dollars- though come to think of it I would like a new motorcycle... If the terrorists had half a brain (which I am glad they don't) they would come come through so easily like all the others- through our borders. Screw all the hard work of getting visas or passports- just come through our weak borders. I would love to take some pot-shots at them. Why don't we spend all that money on our trusty fence (preferably, a wall) and a few cheap guns at your local store.

Now, back to the subject- I, personally, have nothing to hide, but few things annoy me more than having people listen to my conversations. Not because of privacy, but because I am sure there is something better they could be doing. I have no expectation of privacy when I speak on the phone or when I e-mail anyone. I do, however, think it is completely stupid and a wast of my money that our government is paying people to listen to us. Even if it is just for keywords. I feel that if they want to listen to calls coming into our country from other marked places then- go for it, but you darn well better believe they should have a search warrant! There is a justice system and proper routes in place for a reason. They should not be able to just listen to anyone at anytime. There should be a proper investigation and all the "t's" should be crossed before they start to tap or listen. The President and his minions thinking they are above the law should be held to account. There should, in no way, be UNLAWFUL listening or SPYING going on, yet, that is what he promotes and stands behind.

A great news article that shows the depth and carelessness of Homeland Security spying is here.

I very much enjoyed this, "A spokesman for the Customs and Border Protection division said he couldn’t speak directly to Goodman’s case but acknowledged that the agency can, will and does open mail coming to U.S. citizens that originates from a foreign country whenever it’s deemed necessary."

So, who deems it necessary? Where is the search warrant? Do they need one? Many questions left unanswered in my book. What deems it necessary? Maybe the potential for a good love story so they pop open the envelope? Maybe they just want to know how little Johnny has been doing in his baseball games.

Apparently, Homeland Security is free to do whatever they want- with very little supervision. If they want to spy on me or anyone else in America- they can- when they have the permission of a PUBLIC court. Getting the permission in private does not fly. Things need to be done in the open.

Sorry for the rant, but this is just one of my hot buttons. Until Homeland Security is open to proper supervision and audits they are going to be known by most people I know as the Homeland Spying Agency and up for a lot of scrutiny. I don't care what they do outside our soil, but in the U.S. you can't just go around and do what you please. If a guy just says, "Hey, I think I will tap her phone because there may be something fishy going on." and does- he gets arrested and goes to jail. If Homeland Security does it just because they feel like it then it's just fine because they, well... apparently can.

Homeland Security breaking the law.

I support the CIA, FBI, and the Secret Service- I think what they do is good and they have proper direction. What I do not support is a complete and blatant slap in the face from my own government saying they will spy on us, open our mail, and infiltrate every part of our lives because they want to and can- with or without cause or reason. That is not right and that is not legal.

End of story.

Amnesty Bill- because that's what it is!

2007-06-01T09:55:00.000-06:00

Amnesty:

Definition: What George Bush and a select FEW others would like to offer you as a gift in return for being in the United States illegally.

Oops, sorry- I meant to say:

Amnesty:

the act of an authority (as a government) by which pardon is granted to a large group of individuals

The Amnesty Bill.

I cannot believe our President! No matter how you try to coat it- it's an amnesty bill. So, for all of those people out there who brought their families here legally- sorry for all of the hard work you went through. Under Bush's bill you could have just paid a $5,000 (US) fine and been just dandy. How nice.

If everything in the bill is true- then I would love to know where I can sign up for illegal alien status.

Why is it that we seem to be the ONLY first-rate nation NOT enforcing strict border control? We should be giving our border patrol agents more freedom, more money, and medals for all of the illegals that they catch. We should not be suing them, or tightening our reigns on their practices. If someone really loves and respects the United States and wants to live here then they need to respect the laws of the land and come here legally. I completely understand that it is very expensive and time consuming to try to become a citizen of the U.S. That is why, rather than ANOTHER amnesty bill, we need to revamp the immigration system that we currently have in place. S1348 will have no positive outcome. Each amnesty bill that has been passed has only assisted in growing the problem. They have done nothing to help solve it. As a matter of fact the number of illegal aliens has grown immeasurably since 1986, when Reagan signed off on the Immigration and Reform Control Act.

I have spoken to friends of mine in first-rate countries across Europe, Asia, and Africa about this issue since it started becoming popular in the news and they scoff at America. They all have stated the same thing- if their respective country finds illegals in their midst they just pick them up and toss them back where they belong and send their government's a bill for the work or they go to jail for a while and bake. They have plenty of time to think about what they did- then they get sent back to their proper country. Now, those same nations also have very strict border control- if you try to come across illegally you are likely to be shot or battled to the ground, beaten, and sent home. That's what it should be like here. I'm sorry, but I have very little sympathy for those that cross illegally.

Who really cares that Mexico does not like the fact we are building a fence? Personally, I think it should be a twenty foot wall with .50 calibre turrets on top. Guess what? It's our land and we will do what we please on it. Mexico says that it will make crossings more difficult and dangerous. We say, "Good!" that's the idea.

I see our President selling us out and it upsets me. I have friends who have jumped through hoops to become legal. I also have friends who have worked so hard to make their wives and families legal. It's a long, grueling process- one that should be shortened and less expensive, but they were willing to do it because they really respect this great country we live in. Then, I essentially see our leader selling us out handing out "Get to America Free" cards to anyone who wants to write a hefty check. Thus, making all that work that my friends have gone through virtually worthless and irrelevant. Don't let this happen. Contact the RNC (www.gop.com) and let them know that this needs to stop. If you donate to the RNC let them know that you refuse to send them any money until this is all thrown in the garbage where it belongs.

Utterly Ridiculous!

2007-05-30T17:55:00.000-06:00

Ridiculous!

The story below is a complete and utter waste. Another feminist whining because they want what others have. This artictle is about a lady who tried suing Goodyear because men were being paid more than her even though she was doing the same job. Well, listen up lady- welcome to the real world! Everywhere I have ever worked there have been people, men and women, who were being paid more than me even though we were all performind the same job. We even had the same job titles and descriptions. Does this mean I can go around and sue every company I have ever worked for and cite some kind of discrimination? Heck no! Thus is life- people will be paid more than you- end of story. This issue probably would not have even made headlines had she not been a woman and Ginsburg being a feminist herself. Ginsburg needs to lay off the femi-nazi crap and jump back in the ring supporting and upholding the values that our Constitution contains. "What's the Constitution?", she asks. Well, it is actually the piece of paper that she currently uses to wipe her nose with- because that's how much she cares about it. Wake up, Ginsburg! Start doing your job and stop letting your wacko beliefs get in the way. This case should have never made it to the Supreme Court.

-Jas

__________
Over Ginsburg's Dissent, Court Limits Bias Suits

By Robert Barnes
Washington Post Staff Writer
Wednesday, May 30, 2007; A01

A Supreme Court once again split by the thinnest of margins ruled yesterday that workers may not sue their employers over unequal pay caused by discrimination alleged to have occurred years earlier.

The court ruled 5 to 4 that Lilly Ledbetter, the lone female supervisor at a tire plant in Gadsden, Ala., did not file her lawsuit against Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. in the timely manner specified by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The decision moved Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg to read a dissent from the bench, a usually rare practice that she has now employed twice in the past six weeks to criticize the majority for opinions that she said undermine women's rights.

Speaking for the three other dissenting justices, Ginsburg's voice was as precise and emotionless as if she were reading a banking decision, but the words were stinging.

"In our view, the court does not comprehend, or is indifferent to, the insidious way in which women can be victims of pay discrimination," she said.

Last month, Ginsburg rebuked the same five-justice majority for upholding the federal Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act and for language in the opinion that she said reflected "ancient notions about women's place in the family and under the Constitution -- ideas that have long since been discredited."

Yesterday she said that "Title VII was meant to govern real-world employment practices, and that world is what the court today ignores." She called for Congress to correct what she sees as the court's mistake.

In a case that Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. said was easily decided on the statute "as written," her statement from the bench was noteworthy.

Marcia Greenberger, co-president of the National Women's Law Center, said Ginsburg's attention-getting dissents are a "clarion call to the American people that this slim majority of the court is headed in the wrong direction." She noted Ginsburg's background as a feminist legal activist who helped establish women's legal rights and added: "To see them being dismantled is especially troubling."

While Greenberger and others said the court's decision in Ledbetter v. Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. was a "setback for women and a setback for civil rights," business groups applauded the "fair decision" that, in the words of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, "eliminates a potential wind-fall against employers by employees trying to dredge up stale pay claims."

A jury had originally awarded Ledbetter more than $3.5 million because it found "more likely than not" that sex discrimination during her 19-year career led to her being paid substantially less than her male counterparts.

An appeals court reversed, saying the law requires that a suit be filed within 180 days "after the alleged unlawful employment practice occurred," and Ledbetter could not prove discrimination within that time period. She had argued that she was discriminated against throughout her career, receiving smaller raises than the men received, and that each paycheck that was less was a new violation.

Alito wrote for the majority that "current effects alone can't breathe life into prior, uncharged discrimination." He was joined by Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justices Anthony M. Kennedy, Antonin Scalia and Clarence Thomas. Thomas is a former chairman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

"We apply the statute as written, and this means that any unlawful employment practice, including those involving compensation, must be presented . . . within the period prescribed by the statute," Alito said.

Robin Conrad, executive vice president of the National Chamber Litigation Center, said: "If the court ruled the opposite way, employers could have been hauled into court on decades-old claims of discrimination."

But Ginsburg, joined by Justices John Paul Stevens, David H. Souter and Stephen G. Breyer, said the decision sets up a sometimes impossible barrier. "Pay disparities often occur, as they did in Ledbetter's case, in small increments; only over time is there strong cause to suspect that discrimination is at work," she wrote.

Even when unequal pay is discovered, she wrote, women may be reluctant to go to federal court over small amounts: "An employee like Ledbetter, trying to succeed in a male-dominated workplace, in a job filled only by men before she was hired, understandably may be anxious to avoid making waves."

Ginsburg's empathetic statement added that "the same denial of relief" would apply to those alleging discrimination based on race, religion, age, national origin or disability.

Ledbetter, like Ginsburg a woman in her 70s, said she was "disappointed, very, very disappointed" with the decision. "I worked a lot of years doing the hard work and not to get paid as much as the men will affect me every day in the future" in the form of lower retirement benefits, she said.

Judith L. Lichtman, a senior adviser to the National Partnership for Women and Families, said that is what Ginsburg's dissents speak to.

"She talks about the real-world consequences of Supreme Court decisions on the lives of women," Lichtman said.

Ginsburg has been the court's lone female member since Alito replaced Justice Sandra Day O'Connor in January 2006, and both women have expressed consternation about that in interviews since then.

"The word I would use to describe my position on the bench is 'lonely,' " Ginsburg told USA Today this year. Asked what difference O'Connor's departure would make, Ginsburg said only: "This term may be very revealing."

Richard Lazarus, co-director of Georgetown University Law Center's Supreme Court Institute, said that reading a dissent from the bench is significant for a justice. "It's a different order of magnitude of dissent," he said.

Lazarus said Ginsburg's dissents "may be signifying an increasing frustration."

from: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/05/29/AR2007052900740_pf.html

Fishing.

2007-05-29T08:11:00.000-06:00

I took my oldest daughter to a local lake to fish on Saturday. She is a typical four year olde- if you don't keep things constantly exciting- they loose interest. I baited her hook with a worm and had literally just cast her pole and picked mine up to cast when her bobber just disappeared! I was astonished! She was so very excited. I let her start reeling in, but the fish was too big for her to do it alone. So, we reeled it in together. After a quick fight we brought the fish up. To my amazement it was a cute little catfish. To her it must have seemed a whale! Prior to her catching the fish she kept saying how she was going to catch a giant whale- well, in a way, her wish came true. The fish was a little shorter than her leg. It was so cute how thrilled she was to get a fish.

Later on, it started to rain. I just happen to keep a disposable poncho in my bag in case of heavy rain. I had to put it on her and then cut it to fit. Soon after, Sarah came to pick her up and she was as cheery as could be and told Mommy all about it!

I encourage you to spend some one-on-one time with each of your children because you may not just learn more about them, but learn something about yourself. This trip reminded me that it's not how many fish you catch, but who you are spending time with. Catching fish when fishing with others is just a perk to me anymore. I would rather build and strengthen relationships than solely focus on catching something.

Memorial Day

2007-05-28T13:27:00.002-06:00

Well, today is Memorial Day. All too often I hear people speak about today as more of a day off from work than its true meaning. Memorial Day is a day set aside once a year where we honour those soldiers who have given their lives for the freedom we now enjoy in our country. My grandfather served his country in World War II as a tailgunner on a bomber. He did not die in the war, but his brother did. His bother was aboard his ship when it was hit with a torpedo. His body was never found, but he did receive a Purple Heart posthumously. Please remember those who passed before us fighting to give us the liberty and freedom we have in this great nation.

Nice website on Memorial Day History.

Thank you to those who currently serve in the Armed Forces! We are proud of you and are praying for you and your families.

Do you ever...

2007-05-25T10:39:00.000-06:00

Do you ever sit and ponder? Not just think, but deeply ponder something? I often find myself just sitting and pondering what the landscape looked like in the past, who walked where I am sitting, what was going on in their lives.

I suppose it may be childish or foolish of me to think about these things, but the truth is I think it makes me a better person for it. Not in any moral sense, but rather in a deeper, personal way.

I heard it once said by an archaeologist excavating a site in the Holy Land that he wondered who lived where he was excavating, what was going on in their lives, did they have children?, what brought them there, and how they died. These are all very valid questions. It brings you closer to the past and yet, in some way, to the present.

They were real people living real lives. Very little around us looks like it did 200 years ago- let alone, 2,000 years ago.

For instance, Budapest, Hugary used to be two cities- Buda and Pest. They did not even unite until 1873. The city literally sits on top of what was there 2,000 years ago. The entire city sits on one of the largest cave systems in Europe. The Romans and several other cultures lived both above and below the ground in this City of Caves. What was "street-level" in Saint Ivan's day is now many feet under the ground. It still amazes me that history can be so easily buried in the mud and rock- literally- by nature and the destruction of man.

When you look around while you are out walking or hiking just let your mind wander. Think that you are likely walking where people did long ago. Maybe a trapper, hunter, or Native American traversed that same hill or field. You may even be walking above where they did!

I bring this all to a close with these words: History is always pertinent. Especially when it relates to Christ. Two thousand years ago Christ gave His life for all. He was born of a virgin, lived a perfect life, died, and rose from the grave to forgive our sins. Jesus was not just another person in history that has been buried under mud and stone, but rather the shining light in our dark world. He was God in flesh. He rose from the grave and won the victory and set us free from our sin. Jesus is alive and working in our lives daily- whether we choose to see it or not. We may look back into history and see what others have built, but we can look at our own lives and see what He is building in us. It's a glorious thought. Do you sit at the Lord's table? Or are you still looking from the outside in? There is always a place for you at God's table.

If you would like to know more about becoming a Christian please let me know.