Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Tips On Tuesdays - For the peace-loving Muslims

My tip for the peace-loving Muslims is....if you don't want to be profiled in airports, and you don't want your Islamic faith being distorted and defiled by the radical extremists, then you need to "step up to the plate" as we say in this country.  We need your voices to convince your fellow Muslims who call for jihad, that they need to stop this madness.  What they are doing is not advancing their cause, it's only bringing more destruction upon innocent people on both sides. Their attacks are ruining the reputation of Muslims in the worldwide community.  I hope and pray you can help make a difference, God willing, by doing whatever you can to convince and persuade the radical factions of your faith that jihad is not the way to achieve their goals.  I call upon you to stand up and show the world that Islam is a peace-loving religion.....and I truly believe a peaceful coexistence and respect for one another is what most everyone in the whole world really wants to have, no matter what religion you are.  I believe even the athiests can agree they want this too! 

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Money On Mondays - How To Make Congress More Fiscally Responsible

Congressional Reform Act of 2010


1. Term Limits: 12 years maximum, one of the possible options below.

   A. Two Six year Senate terms

   B. Six Two year House terms

   C. One Six year Senate term and three Two Year House terms

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


2. No Tenure / No Pension:

A congressman collects a salary while in office and receives
no pay when they are out of office.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


3. Congress (past, present & future) participates in Social
Security:  All funds in the Congressional retirement fund moves
to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow
into the Social Security system, Congress participates with the
American people.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, server your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


4. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just like
the rest of Americans do.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


5. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise.
Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


6. Congress loses their current health care system and
participates in the same health care system as the American
people.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


7. Congress must equally abide in all laws they impose on the
rest of the American people.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.


8. All contracts with past and present congressmen are void
effective 1/1/11.  The American people did not make this
contract with congressmen, congressmen made all these
contracts for themselves.

Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding
Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, serve your term(s), then
go home and go back to work.

Sunday, December 27, 2009

Scripture On Sundays - Holy Family Sunday

God sets a father in honor over his children;
a mother's authority He confirms over her sons.
Whoever honors his father atones for sins,
and preserves himself from them.
When he prays, he is heard;
he stores up riches who reveres his mother.
Whoever honors his father is gladdened by children,
and, when he prays, is heard.
Whoever reveres his father will live a long life;
he who obeys his father brings comfort to his mother.

My son, take care of your father when he is old;
grieve him not as long as he lives.
Even if his mind fails, be considerate of him;
revile him not all the days of his life;
kindness to a father will not be forgotten,
firmly planted against the debt of your sins
--a house raised in justice to you.
Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14

12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and
dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion,
kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever
grievances you may have against one another.
Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
14 And over all these virtues put on love, that is,
the bond of perfection.
15 Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since
as members of one body you were called to peace.
And be thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you
teach and admonish one another with all wisdom,
and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs
with gratitude in your hearts to God.
17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed,
do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks
to God the Father through Him.

Rules for Christian Households and the Workplace

18 Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting in
the Lord.
19 Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh
with them.
20 Children, obey your parents in everything, for
this pleases the Lord.
21 Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they
will become discouraged.
22 Slaves (workers), obey your earthly masters (bosses) 
in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on
you and to win their favor, but with sincerity of heart
and reverence for the Lord.
23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,
as working for the Lord, not for men,
24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance
from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you
are serving.
25 Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong,
and there is no favoritism.
Colossians 3:12-25

The Boy Jesus at the Temple  (Jesus worries His parents)

41 Every year His parents went to Jerusalem for the
Feast of the Passover.
42 When He was twelve years old, they went up to the
Feast, according to the custom.
43 After the Feast was over, while His parents were
returning home, the boy Jesus stayed behind in
Jerusalem, but they were unaware of it.
44 Thinking He was in their company (group), they
traveled on for a day. Then they began looking for
Him among their relatives and friends.
45 When they did not find Him, they went back to
Jerusalem to look for Him.
46 After three days they found Him in the temple
courts, sitting among the teachers, listening to them
and asking them questions.
47 Everyone who heard Him was amazed at His
understanding and His answers.
48 When His parents saw Him, they were astonished.
His mother said to Him, "Son, why have you treated
us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously
searching for You."
49 "Why were you searching for Me?" He asked.
"Didn't you know I had to be in My Father's house?"
50 But they did not understand what He was saying
to them.
51 Then He went down to Nazareth with them and
was obedient to them. But His mother treasured all
these things in her heart.
52 And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in
favor with God and men.
Luke 2:41-52

Family & Friends On Fridays - Ooops!

Sorry, I seem to have skipped my Friday posting.  Well,
actually I've been sick with a cold and haven't even been
on the computer much.  Now you know I'm not feeling
well, if that happens!

Just a quick verse for everyone...

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn 
the world, but to save the world through Him.
John 3:17

God help us.  We have to realize we need Him!

Satire On Saturdays - Office Christmas Party Memos

Ahhh!  How we've come to include, embrace and pacify
everyone with all of the diverse cultural differences in our
society!  It's enough to drive some of us....well yes, crazy!
Love and patience are definitely virtues!
Go ahead and read what this lady went through while trying
to please everyone....     


Office Christmas Party Memos

December 1st

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

I'm happy to inform you that the company Christmas
Party will take place on December 23rd at Luigi's
Open Pit Barbecue.There will be lots of spiked eggnog
and a small band playing traditional carols...feel free to
sing along. And don't be surprised if our CEO shows up
dressed as Santa Claus to light the Christmas tree!
Exchange of gifts among employees can be done at that
time; however, no gift should be over $20.
Merry Christmas to you and your family.

Patty Lewis
Human Resources Director

-----------------------

December 2nd

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

In no way was yesterday's memo intended to exclude
our Jewish employees. We recognize that Hanukkah is
an important holiday that often coincides with Christmas
(though unfortunately not this year). However, from now
on we're calling it our "Holiday Party." The same policy
applies to employees who are celebrating Kwanzaa at
this time. There will be no Christmas tree and only non-
religious, generic Christmas carols will be sung.
Happy Holidays to you and your family.

Patty Lewis
Human Resources Director

----------------------

December 3rd

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

Regarding the anonymous note I received from a member
of Alcoholics Anonymous requesting a non-drinking table,
I'm happy to accommodate this request, but, don't forget,
if I put a sign on the table that reads, "AA Only," you won't
be anonymous anymore. In addition, forget about the gifts
exchange-no gifts will be allowed since the union
members feel that $20 is too much money.

Patty Lewis
Human Researchers Director

----------------------

December 7th

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

I've arranged for members of Overeaters Anonymous to
sit farthest from the dessert buffet and pregnant women
closest to the restrooms. Gays are allowed to sit with each
other. Lesbians do not have to sit with the gay men;
each will have their own table. Yes, there will be a flower
arrangement for the gay men's table.
Happy now?

Patty Lewis
Human Racehorses Director

-------------------------

December 9th

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

People, people - nothing sinister was intended by wanting
our CEO to play Santa Claus! Even if the anagram of
"Santa" does happen to be "Satan," there is no evil
connotation to our own "little man in a red suit."

Patty Lewis
Human Rat Races

--------------------------

December 10th

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

Vegetarians - I've had it with you people!! We're going
to hold this party at Luigi's Open Pit whether you like it
or not, you can just sit at the table farthest from the "grill
of death," as you put it, and you'll get salad bar only,
including hydroponic tomatoes. But, you know, tomatoes
have feelings, too. They scream when you slice them.
I've heard them scream. I'm hearing them right now...
Ha! I hope you all have a rotten holiday!

The Witch from Hell

----------------------------

December 14th

TO: ALL EMPLOYEES:

I'm sure I speak for all of us in wishing Patty Lewis a
speedy recovery from her stress-related illness. I'll
continue to forward your cards to her at the sanitarium.
In the meantime, management has decided to cancel our
Holiday Party and give everyone the afternoon of the 23rd
off with full pay. Hope you all enjoy your own version of
the Holiday!

Terri Bishop
Acting Human Resources Director

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Truth On Thursdays - If You Look For Me At Christmas

I'm changing my usual Thursday posting today from Trivia On Thursdays to Truth On Thursdays.

IF YOU LOOK FOR ME AT CHRISTMAS

If you look for Me at Christmas
You won't need a special star.
I'm no longer just in Bethlehem,
I'm right there where you are.

You may not be aware of Me
Amid the celebrations.
You'll have to look beyond the stores
And all the decorations.

But if you take a moment
From your list of things to do,
And listen to your heart, you'll find
I'm waiting there for you.

You're the one I want to be with,
You're the reason why I came.
And you'll find Me in the stillness
As I'm whispering your name.

Love, Jesus


For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders.  And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6


ONE SOLITARY LIFE

He was born in an obscure village. 
He worked in a carpenter shop until He was thirty. 
He then became an itinerant preacher. 
He never held an office. 
He never had a family or owned a house. 
He didn't go to college. 
He had no credentials but Himself. 
He was only thirty-three when the public turned against Him. 
His friends ran away. 
He was turned over to His enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. 
He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. 
While He was dying, His executioners gambled for His clothing, the only property He had on earth. 
He was laid to rest in a borrowed grave. 
Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today He is the central figure of the human race.
All the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat, and all the kings that ever reigned have not affected the life of man on this earth as much as that One Solitary Life.


Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Work On Wednesdays - A Difficult Work Environment

If you asked me right now, who has one of the most difficult work environments, I would have to say any United States Senator or US Representative in the House.  The pressure is on for people on both sides of the isle.  The Democrats may have one another battle, but they haven't won the war yet. 

By that last statement, you can assume that I hope this healthcare bill that the Dems are calling "historic" goes down in flames.  It is not because I do not have any compassion for people who are uninsured or under insured.  It is because this is not the right kind of reform at all.  With the latest batch of lies, misrepresentations and special deals, it is making most Americans even more fed up with how Congress is conducting business.  It's also showing how much animosity and resentment is building up between the members of this legislative body.  I predict this bill will self destruct on it's own weight.  I can liken the Dems and the GOP to going through a nasty divorce, where the cause will be irreconcilable differences.

The Dems are calling Republicans obstructionists.  I say to the GOP -- keep it up!  There is so much wrong with this bill, I wouldn't even know where to begin.  I agree with those that say it will be the most "historic" mistake if this fiasco of a bill ever makes it to the President's desk for signing.

Tips On Tuesdays - Handbook for 2010

HANDBOOK FOR 2010


Health:

1. Drink plenty of water.

2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.

3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.

4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy

5. Make time to pray.

6.. Play more games

7. Read more books than you did in 2009.

8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day

9. Sleep for at least 7 hours, if you can.

10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily....and while you walk, smile.


Personality:

11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

12.. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive

present moment.

13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.

14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.

16. Dream more while you are awake.

17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin

your present happiness.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.

20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.

21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum

that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

23. Smile and laugh more.

24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.


Society:

25. Call your family often.

26. Each day give something good to others.

27. Forgive everyone for everything.

28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.

29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.

30. What other people think of you is none of your business.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.


Life:

32. Do the right thing!

33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

34. GOD heals everything.

35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

37. Believe the best is yet to come.

38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.

39. Your inner most is always happy. So, be happy.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Money On Mondays - Promises, Promises

THE COW AND THE ICE CREAM


ONE OF THE BEST EXPLANATIONS OF WHY OBAMA WON THE ELECTION

--From a teacher in the Nashville area

"We are worried about 'the cow' when it is all about the 'Ice Cream.'

The most eye-opening civics lesson I ever had was while teaching third grade this year...

The presidential election was heating up and some of the children showed an interest.
I decided we would have an election for a class president. We would choose our nominees. They would make a campaign speech and the class would vote.

To simplify the process, candidates were nominated by other class members. We discussed what kinds of characteristics these students should have. We got many nominations and from those, Jamie and Olivia were picked to run for the top spot. The class had done a great job in their selections. Both candidates were good kids. I thought Jamie might have an advantage because he got lots of parental support. I had never seen Olivia's mother.

The day arrived when they were to make their speeches. Jamie went first. He had specific ideas about how to make our class a better place. He ended by promising to do his very best. Everyone applauded and he sat down.

Now is was Olivia's turn to speak. Her speech was concise. She said, "If you will vote for me, I will give you ice cream." She sat down.

The class went wild. "Yes! Yes! We want ice cream." She surely would say more, but she did not have to.

A discussion followed. How did she plan to pay for the ice cream? She wasn't sure.

Would her parents buy it or would the class pay for it. She didn't know.

The class really didn't care. All they were thinking about was ice cream.

Jamie was forgotten.. Olivia won by a landslide.

Every time Barack Obama opened his mouth he offered ice cream and 52 percent of the people reacted like nine year olds. They want ice cream.

The other 48 percent know they're going to have to feed the cow and clean up the mess."

This is the ice cream Obama promised us!

Remember, the government cannot give anything to anyone -- that they have not first taken away from someone else.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Scripture On Sundays - Wise Men Still Seek Him

The prediction from the Old Testament....

2 "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me One who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times."
3 Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of His brothers return to the children Israel.
4 He shall stand firm and shepherd His flock by the strength of the LORD, in the majestic Name of the LORD His God. And they will live securely, for then His greatness will reach to the ends of the earth.
5 And He will be their peace.
Micah 5:2-5

It is in this next passage where we hear what the main thing is that God cares about the most.  It is that we love and accept His Son Jesus, which He sent to us to secure our salvation.  Nothing we can humanly do, can do more to please God the Father other than this.  As Jesus says to His Father....

5 Therefore, when Christ came into the world, He said: "Sacrifice and offering You did not desire, but a body You prepared for Me (in the human form of Jesus); 
6 with burnt offerings and sin offerings You were not pleased.
7 Then I said, 'Here I am - it is written about Me in the scroll - I have come to do Your will, O God.' "
8 First He said, "Sacrifices and offerings, burnt offerings and sin offerings You did not desire, nor were You pleased with them" (although the law required them to be made).
9 Then He said, "Here I am, I have come to do Your will." He sets aside the first to establish the second.
10 And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once and for all.    
Hebrews 10:5-10

In today's gospel we hear about when Mary, the pregnant mother of Jesus, visits her cousin Elizabeth, who is pregnant with a son who would become John the Baptist.

39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea,
40 where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth.
41 When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the Child you will bear!
43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.
45 Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"
Luke 1:39-45

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Satire On Saturdays - Who Would've Thought?!

A Shocking Poem

I was shocked, confused, bewildered

As I entered Heaven's door,

Not by the beauty of it all,

Nor the lights or its decor.


But it was the folks in Heaven

Who made me sputter and gasp--

The thieves, the liars, the sinners,

The alcoholics and the trash.


There stood the kid from seventh grade

Who swiped my lunch money twice.

Next to him was my old neighbor

Who never said anything nice.


Herb, who I always thought

Was rotting away in hell,

Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,

Looking incredibly well.


I then asked Jesus, "What's the deal?

I would love to hear Your take....

How'd all these sinners get up here?

It must be a big mistake.


And why's everyone so quiet,

So sombre - please give me a clue..."

"Hush, child," He said. "They're all in shock.

No one thought they'd be seeing you!"


Judge not!  The Good News is there's hope for all
of us.  Jesus was sent to earth to redeem and save
EVERYONE.  Those who acknowledge they are
sinners and accept Him as their One, True Lord and
Savior, will be the beneficiary of His forgiveness and
saving grace.

Every saint has a PAST
Every sinner has a FUTURE!

And remember, just going to church doesn't make you
a Christian, any more than standing in your garage makes
you a car. 

God knows what's in our hearts and minds. 
He made us; He loves us; He has shown us the way.
It's never too late to do the right thing!

Amazed in His presence... humbled by His incredible love!


Saturday, December 19, 2009

Family & Friends On Fridays - For You

With a prayer, I've asked the Lord to always be with you,

To keep you safe and healthy, in all that you do.

From the darkness of night and into the light of day,

May His constant love comfort and surround you, I pray.

The Lord's blessings onto you and your family, the same

As always I ask this for you, in His Most Holy Name.

Amen

Friday, December 18, 2009

Trivia On Thursdays - American Quips

When in England, at a fairly large conference, Condi Rice was asked by the Archbishop of Canterbury if our plans for Iraq were just an example of empire building by George Bush. She answered by saying, "Over the years, the United States has sent many of its fine young men and women into great peril to fight for freedom beyond our borders. The only amount of land we have ever asked for in return is enough to bury those that did not return." You could have heard a pin drop.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There was a conference in France where a number of international engineers were taking part, including French and American. During a break, one of the French engineers came back into the room saying "Have you heard the latest dumb stunt Bush has done? He has sent an aircraft carrier to Indonesia to help the tsunami victims. What does he intend to do, bomb them?" A Boeing engineer stood up and replied quietly: "Our carriers have three hospitals on board that can treat several hundred people; they are nuclear powered and can supply emergency electrical power to shore facilities; they have three cafeterias with the capacity to feed 3,000 people three meals a day, they can produce several thousand gallons of fresh water from sea water each day, and they carry half a dozen helicopters for use in transporting victims and injured to and from their flight deck. We have eleven such ships; how many does France have?" You could have heard a pin drop.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A U.S. Navy Admiral was attending a naval conference that included Admirals from the American, English, Canadian, Australian and French Navies. At a cocktail reception, he found himself standing with a large group of Officers that included personnel from most of those countries. Everyone was chatting away in English as they sipped their drinks, but a French admiral suddenly complained that, "whereas Europeans learn many languages, Americans learn only English." He then asked, "Why is it that we always have to speak English at these conferences rather than speaking French?" Without hesitating, the American Admiral replied "Maybe it's because the Brits, Canadians, Aussies and Americans arranged it so you wouldn't have to speak German." You could have heard a pin drop.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


AND THIS STORY FITS RIGHT IN WITH THE ABOVE... Robert Whiting, an elderly gentleman of 83, arrived in Paris by plane. At French Customs, he took a few minutes to locate his passport in his carry on. "You have been to France before, monsieur?" the customs officer asked sarcastically. Mr. Whiting admitted that he had been to France previously. "Then you should know enough to have your passport ready." The American said, ''The last time I was here, I didn't have to show it. "Impossible. Americans always have to show their passports upon arrival in France!" The American senior gave the Frenchman a long hard look. Then he quietly explained, ''Well, when I came ashore at Omaha Beach on D-Day in 1944 to help liberate this country, I couldn't find a single Frenchmen to show a passport to." You could have heard a pin drop.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Work On Wednesdays - Job Creation, Who's Better At It?

I watched an interesting program on TV the other day where it discussed the topic, who is better at creating jobs....the federal government or the free market private sector? 

First, they looked at the priorities and motivations of each.  So we can call this the Business Approach versus the Government Approach to job creation.

This sounds like common sense to me.  If you are an entrepreneur who wants to start up your own business, what do you think your main desires, objectives and aspirations should be? 
1)  You should obviously want to make it profitable.  Who wants to have a business that isn't? 
2)  You want to have a business that fills a need and/or provides a service or product that's needed. 
3)  You will want to consider any and all competition you may have out there.
4)  In order to remain competitive, you will want to run your business as efficiently as possible.
5)  In order to obtain, and maintain those above mentioned objectives, you'll need to figure out how many jobs you will be able to create.  How many people will be needed to provide the service or product?

So the jobs you create are merely an end to a means.  You hire however many you need, and can afford to pay.  You have to factor in the cost of having those employees.  If you're looking at running a business efficiently and effectively, you're always looking at your (incoming) demand for your product/services, as opposed to your (outgoing) overhead costs, and your subsequent bottom line.  In other words, you don't create a business solely to provide jobs.  If things are going well, and demand for your products/services are up, then the more people you can afford to hire to keep up with that demand.  This all makes sense to me.

Now let's look at the government's approach.  Currently, they're not looking at it from a businessman's point of view.  They just know umemployment numbers are up and they want to help solve the problem.  So here's the impression many people are getting, as to what their priorities and objectives are....
1)  Job creation is at the top of the list.
2)  They want to influence and promote what they think is needed in the marketplace, such as "green" jobs.
3)  They figure if they spend more taxpayer money (where exactly it will go, we're not sure) by "stimulating" the economy, these jobs will materialize.
4)  Regulate and dictate to current business owners what the CEO pay should be and encourage union pay scale for their employees (many think that's to ensure more Democrats continue to get elected).
5)   Extend unemployment benefits, which is a great (incoming) monetary help for the unemployed, but it is only temporary and it's an (outgoing) expense for....
Well, where does that unemployment money actually come from?  You may think it's from the government.  Well, it is.  But how do they fill up their coffers?  It's the businesses and working people who are filling them up by paying taxes (outgoing) from their income. 

In the government's approach there are no clear cut objectives other than to try to somehow force the creation of jobs.  But you can't really "force" the creation of jobs.  The businesses in the private sector create the jobs.  The government currently seems to want to influence, direct and regulate the markets, which gives the appearance of wanting to ultimately control the businesses.  But by doing this, they are not taking into account how it will impact these businesses bottom line.  Unfortunately, this may be viewed by some, as those greedy businesses who care more about their bottom line than their employees.  But if the business cannot be viable, because of so many government demands and restrictions....no one wins. 

The government instead, needs to create a climate that makes it easier for businesses to prosper.  Don't make it more difficult for the job creators!.  I know the liberals and Democrats hate to hear this, but tax cuts actually do help create more jobs....and the more people that are working means the more money that is being paid into the government's coffers via taxes.  So everyone wins.  Isn't that the end goal?

Look back at those numbered priorities and objectives for both business and government.  Doesn't it appear to you that the business approaches versus the government approaches are reversed?  So who do you think has it backwards?  You make the call. 


   

Tips On Tuesdays - E-mailing Info

You should be careful about sending/forwarding ANY e-mail that says to pass it on, or that asks you to sign a petition. These marketers are so slick that they appeal to our patriotism, our desire for friends, and our religious beliefs. Maybe we can eliminate all the stuff that slows down our computers if we quit sending it to each other, no matter how cute it is or how guilty not sending it makes us feel.

The following is good information.

The man that sent this information is a computer tech. He spends a lot of time clearing the junk off computers for people and listens to complaints about speed. All forwards are not bad, just some.

Please read :

By now, I suspect everyone is familiar with www.snopes.com and/or www.truthorfiction.com for determining whether information received via e-mail is just that: true/false or fact/fiction. Both are excellent sites.

Advice from Snopes.com    Very important!

1) Any time you see an e-mail that says forward this on to '10' (or however many) of your friends, sign this petition, or you'll get bad luck, good luck, you'll see something funny on your screen after you send it, or whatever, it almost always has an e-mail tracker program attached that tracks the cookies and e-mails of those folks you forward to.

The host sender is getting a copy each time it gets forwarded and then is able to get lists of active e-mail addresses to use in SPAM e-mails, or sell to other spammers. Even when you get e-mails that demand you send the e-mail on if you're not ashamed of God/Jesus .....that's e-mail tracking and they're playing on your conscience. These people don't care how they get your e-mail addresses - just as long as they get them. Also, e-mails that talk about a missing child or a child with an incurable disease - "how would you feel if that was your child"....odds are it's e-mail tracking! Ignore them and don't participate!

2) Almost all e-mails that ask you to add your name and forward on to others are similar to that mass letter years ago that asked people to send business cards to the little kid in Florida who wanted to break the Guinness Book of World Records for the most cards. All it was, and any other similar type of e-mail, is a way to get names and 'cookie' tracking information for telemarketers and spammers, in order to validate active e-mail accounts for their own profitable purposes.

You can do your friends and family members a GREAT favor by sending this information to them; you will be providing a service to all of them, and you will all be rewarded by not getting thousands of spam e-mails in the future!

If you have been sending out (FORWARDING) the above kinds of e-mail, now you know why you get so much SPAM!  Do yourself a favor and STOP adding your name(s) to those types of listings regardless of how inviting they might sound, or make you feel guilty if you don't.  It's all about getting e-mail addresses - nothing more!

You may think you are supporting a GREAT cause, but you are NOT! Instead, you will be getting tons of junk mail later and very possibly a virus attached! Plus, we are helping the spammers get rich! Let's not make it easy for them!

Also: e-mail petitions are NOT acceptable to Congress or any other organization - i.e. Social Security, etc.

To be acceptable, petitions must have actual signed signatures and the full addresses of each person signing the petition.  It's a waste of time if you type your name onto a list in an e-mail petition.  You're just helping the e-mail trackers.  So please heed these tips, for your own good, and for your computer's sake!


Monday, December 14, 2009

Money On Mondays - Is Money Your Master?

Of course, we all need money to exist....to pay our bills, buy food, etc.  But it's rather ironic (or is it?) that on my daily calendar of Bible verses, the one for today reads....

Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.
Proverbs 11:28

Hmmmm, I figured this was a good one for my Money On Monday posting.  Plus this one will be a lot shorter than my Sunday posting usually is!  But in light of the current economic situation in this courtry, with job losses, credit card interest rates rising, along with many other items we need; not to mention our 401K's having lost a lot of their value (but it's slowly inching up), I thought to myself 'how much do we really need?'  It would be great if we had just enough for the basics, really. 

For those who may have "lined their pockets" through ill-gotten means, such as being greedy or defrauding others, I hope they realize they can't take it with them to their grave.  And I wouldn't want to be them on Judgement Day either!  It may have just been a short-lived windfall for them too, that could very well have disappeared.  Was it worth it while they had it?  Not at the expense of losing their souls.  Nothing in this worldly life lasts forever.

Scripture On Sundays - Rejoice!

In the Old Testament, the prophet Zephaniah predicts to Israel (Zion) that they will be told (by John the Baptist) that the time is near for the coming of their Savior. He tells them that He will take great delight in them, He will quiet them with His love, and He will rejoice over all with singing. This was true for them and for everyone, now and always.  For the word of the Lord is right and true; He is faithful in all that He does."  Psalm 33:4

On that day, it shall be said to Jerusalem: Fear not, O Zion, be not discouraged!  The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty Savior; He will rejoice over you with gladness, and renew you in His love; He will sing joyfully because of you, as one sings at festivals.
Zephaniah 3:16,17

The second reading from a letter of St. Paul to the Philippians also speaks of rejoicing and how we should turn to Jesus for help and guidance.  This is what gives Christians such peace in times of trouble....knowing they can put their trust in the Lord.  This is one of my personal favorites.

Brothers and sisters:  Rejoice in the Lord always.  I shall say it again: rejoice!
Your kindness should be known to all.  The Lord is near.  Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God.  Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7   

I'd also like to add these additional verses from the same letter of St. Paul's where he states how he deals with the good and bad circumstances in his life.  We can all use this advice, even in this day and age.

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content, whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:10-13

Besides rejoicing, John the Baptist also warned the people they should be preparing and repenting for the coming of the Lord.  As in many Bible stories, the use of descriptive language is used.  In this case, we are the trees and the judgement of the Lord will be the ax....unless we repent, and make ourselves worthy of the salvation that He's offered to all of us.

John said to the crowds coming out to be baptized by him,"The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire."

"What should we do then?" the crowd asked.
John answered, "The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same."
Tax collectors also came to be baptized. "Teacher," they asked, "what should we do?"
"Don't collect any more than you are required to," he told them. Then some soldiers asked him, "And what should we do?"  He replied, "Don't extort money and don't accuse people falsely—be content with your pay."
The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Christ. John answered them all, "I baptize you with water. But One more powerful than I will come, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand to clear His threshing floor and to gather the wheat into His barn (heaven), but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire (hell)." And with many other words John exhorted the people and preached the good news to them.

When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as He was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended on Him in bodily form like a dove. And a Voice came from heaven saying: "You are My Son, whom I love; with You I am well pleased."
Luke 3:9-18;21,22  

Sunday, December 13, 2009

Satire On Saturdays - We Must Stop This!

THIS IS HAPPENING RIGHT HERE IN OUR OWN COUNTRY!
We Must Stop This Immediately!

Have you noticed that stairs are getting steeper, groceries are heavier and everything is farther away? Yesterday I walked to the corner and I was dumbfounded to discover how long our street had become!

And, you know, people are less considerate now, especially the young ones. They speak in whispers all the time! If you ask them to speak up they just keep repeating themselves, endlessly mouthing the same silent message until they're red in the face! What do they think I am, a lip reader?

I also think they are much younger than I was at the same age. On the other hand, people my own age are so much older than I am. I ran into an old friend the other day and she has aged so much that she didn't even recognize me.

I got to thinking about the poor dear while I was combing my hair this morning, and in doing so, I glanced at my own reflection well, REALLY NOW - even mirrors are not made the way they used to be!

Another thing, everyone drives so fast these days! You're risking life and limb if you happen to pull onto the freeway in front of them. All I can say is, their brakes must wear out awfully fast, the way I see them screech and swerve in my rear view mirror.

Clothing manufacturers are less civilized these days. Why else would they suddenly start labeling a size 10 or 12 dress as 18 or 20? Do they think no one notices?

The people who make bathroom scales are pulling the same prank. Do they think I actually "believe" the number I see on that dial? HA! I would never let myself weigh that much! Just who do these people think they're fooling?

I'd like to call up someone in authority to report what's going on -- but the telephone company is in on the conspiracy too: they've printed the phone books in such small type that no one could ever find a number in there!

All I can do is pass along this warning:  WE ARE UNDER ATTACK!

Unless something drastic happens, pretty soon everyone will have to suffer these awful indignities.

WE NEED TO GET THIS CONSPIRACY STOPPED!


Family & Friends On Friday - Show Us The Way

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."  
John 14:6

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you.
Psalm 32:8

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Trivia On Thursdays - Top 5 Christmas Friendly Stores

In light of some stores wanting to be "politically correct", there have been reports again this year, that they have instructed their employees not to say "Merry Christmas" to customers.  They have also eliminated that timely phrase of good will from their store's TV commercial and print advertising, opting instead to use "Happy Holidays". 

Many Christians view this as an attempt from the "PC police" to stifle and even remove the true meaning of the season.  On the other hand, some think they are making much more of this than what it is. 

But for those of you who would prefer to patronize stores who don't mind using the phrase "Merry Christmas", here is a list of the top five Christmas friendly stores....

1.  Bass Pro Shops
2.  Cabela's
3.  Land's End
4.  K Mart
5.  Sears

Many of you may know K Mart and Sears have joined forces.  I've also heard reports of how Sears has been one of the best retailers to our veterans, and have held jobs open for their returning employees after they've finished their service to our country.  If that's still true, then kudos to them!

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Work On Wednesdays - Do You Live To Work or Work To Live?

"Become the change you want to see in the world"
- Mahatma Gandhi


"Keep away from people who try to belittle your
ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really
great ones make you feel that you, too, can become great"
- Mark Twain

Letter from an old friend....

First, I was dying to finish high school and start college.
Then I was dying to finish college and start working.
Then I was dying to get married and have children.
Then I was dying for my children to grow old enough
so I could go back to work
But then I was dying to retire.
And now I am dying....
And suddenly I realized, I forgot to live.

Please don't let this happen to you.
Appreciate your current situation and enjoy each day.

To make money we lose our health
and then to restore our health we lose our money.

We live as if we are never going to die,
and we die as if we never lived.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Tips On Tuesdays - How To Stay Young

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them.

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain be idle for too long. 'An idle mind is the devil's workshop.'

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. Let the tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love. Whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9. Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country, but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER....

Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.


Money On Mondays - What You Need To Know

The U.S. National Debt reached 12 TRILLION dollars
last week and now exceeds that amount.  Only 48% of
the working public (excluding Pres. Obama’s czars)
pays taxes, so the average American tax payer now
owes more than $80,000!!!

Monday, December 7, 2009

Scripture On Sundays - Get Yourself Ready For Him

The main message during the Advent season is....getting yourself mentally and spiritually in the right mindset, so you can be ready for the arrival of Christ.  We do this by reflecting, commemorating and rejoicing in His birth, while continuing to learn and abide by what He taught us, knowing He will return again.

Philippians 1:9-11

9 And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and depth of insight and perception,
10 to discern what is of value, so that you may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—for the glory and praise of God.


Luke 3:2b-6

....the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the desert.
3 He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
4 As is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: "A voice of one calling in the desert, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him.
5 Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth.
6 And all mankind will see God's salvation.' "

We all need to work on 'straightening' out whatever is wrong in our lives.... and make it right.  We'll be much better off in the long run, and Our Lord and Creator deserves it too.  Just as a loving parent wants all of their children to do what is right and good because it is a reflection of us and our parenting skills....God our Father wants and expects the same from us also.  It is because we are told we are all His children and we are created in His image and likeness.  So shouldn't we want to make Him proud of us?    
To do this we need to be reminded of His message, which is to respect and love Him, respect and love yourself, and respect and love others.  It's that simple.  So why is this so hard to do sometimes?  Why do some want to reject this message?  All of His laws and commandments are summed up by using one word....LOVE.     

I'd also like to use some other encouraging, but non-biblical slogans too, such as the U.S. Army's "Be all you can be" and Nike's "Just do it"!

If we strive for excellence, we need to make sure of one thing....that we're doing it for the right reasons.  Those grounded in faith will know how to make their path straight and they will be rewarded for their efforts.  Many have become successful, only to be caught up in the fame and glory which makes their path 'crooked' and ends up destroying their lives.  How many celebrities and politicians can I mention that fall into this category?  Unfortunately, the list is quite long. 

There's also another saying that is "We need to learn from other people's mistakes, because we're not going to make them all ourselves".  Those people, especially religious conservatives who originally spoke of morals, values and ethics, but then have an incident where they have "fallen from grace", shouldn't necessarily be called hypocrits.  We're all human, and we all make mistakes.  At least they had the right ideas and the best of intentions to begin with, but unfortunately may have ended up falling short of those lofty ideals.  I think it's still better that they made the effort to promote these values, even if they fell short, instead of the opposite.  I'm speaking of the ones who condone, and may even promote unethical and/or immoral behavior and/or tactics right from the start.  Then when they have a 'fall from grace' the rational you often hear is, their private life is none of our business.  We shouldn't care.  But I do not accept that, especially if this person is supposed to be a role model, or is in a position of leadership and influence. 

We should all be responsible for our actions.  We should have some high standards set for ourselves, especially the ones in the public eye.  May God Our Father, His Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, which is three manifested into One God, continue to be our guide, our salvation and our inspiration, so that we can be the best that we can be.  Living by what's taught in the Bible will make our lives here on earth better.  He would never steer us wrong!  And it will also help to prepare us for when we meet Him again.          

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Satire On Saturdays - A Golfer and His Wife

With all the news about Tiger Woods, I thought I would
share this joke with you.  But I would first like to make a
few comments that every man should hear and understand.

HELL HATH NO FURY AS A WOMAN SCORNED,
whether it be your wife or the mistresses!  I assume many
of you have now heard that one of Tiger's 'other' women
is supposedly getting jealous of all the other gals coming
out of the woodwork.  Duh?!  Did she actually think she
was the only one????  Is that why I've heard that these
women are now being referred to as cockroaches?  It
means 'if you've seen one, you know there's going to be
more coming out after dark'!  How flattering is that?

It's such a shame, the tangled web we weave.  I say not
only shame on Tiger, but shame on the women also, for
knowingly getting involved with a married man.  But they
obviously didn't care that he had a wife and children at
home.  Classy gals, huh? 

And doesn't Tiger know he will be paying dearly for all
of these indiscretions too?  I wonder if he is thinking
if those moments of infidelity were worth it?  Now, not
only his wife, but these other women want some big pay
off money from him, for all that 'fun' he had.

I also believe these other women had no interest in him
other than to have bragging rights that they slept with a
very rich sports celebrity.  I imagine Tiger didn't realize
at the time, that he was being used by these flirtatous
women.  And even if he did, he probably didn't mind,
because he knew he was going to take advantage of
the opportunity to be using them too!  But it's kind of
backfiring on him now! 

Everyone involved probably felt at the time that they
were being pretty adventurous, fun-loving and slick, but
actually there's plenty of stupidity to go around here.  I
think God knew why we shouldn't commit adultery.  Many
are not wise enough to take the time to think about how
much it will complicate their lives (don't forget STD'S too),
not to mention all the people that get hurt in the process also. 
But many think they will never get caught.  Well, they better
wise up, especially now that we're living in this electronic
age of text messages, cell phone cameras, caller ID, e-mails
and voicemails.  That's a lot of stuff to try to cover up! 
How much anxiety that must cause.       
 
Now this golfer in the joke below was not fooling around
on his wife, so it's not exactly the same situation that Tiger
has gotten himself into, but his actions are idiotic and just
as dangerous, none the less!  


Here's another example of how NOT to treat your wife.

A Letter from Wayne ...

It is important for men to remember that, as women
grow older, it becomes harder for them to maintain the
same quality of housekeeping as when they were younger.

When you notice this, try to show some understanding.
My name is Wayne, and let me relate how I handled the
situation with my wife, Beverly. 

When I got an early retirement a few years ago, it
became necessary for Bev to get a full-time job, along with
her part-time job, both for extra income and for the health
benefits that we needed. 

Shortly after she started working, I noticed she was
beginning to show her age. I usually get home from the
golf course about the same time she gets home from work.

Although she knows how hungry I am, she almost always
says she has to rest for half an hour or so before she
starts dinner. I don't yell at her. Instead, I tell her
to take her time and just wake me when she gets dinner
on the table. I generally have lunch in the Men's Grill
at the country club, so eating out again at night is not
reasonable. I'm ready for some home-cooking when I hit
that door. 

She used to do the dishes as soon as we finished
eating, but now it's not unusual for them to sit on the
table for several hours after dinner. I do what I can by
diplomatically reminding her several times each evening
that the dishes won't clean themselves. I know she
really appreciates this, as it does seem to motivate her
to get them done before she goes to bed.

Another symptom of aging is complaining. For example,
she will say that it is difficult for her to find time
to pay the monthly bills during her lunch hour. But,
boys, we take 'em for better or worse, so I just smile
and offer encouragement. I tell her to stretch it out
over two or even three days. That way she won't have to
rush so much. I also remind her that missing lunch
completely now and then wouldn't hurt her any (if you
know what I mean). I like to think that this is one of
my strong points. 

When doing simple jobs, she seems to think she needs
more rest periods. She had to take a break when she was
only half finished mowing the yard. I try not to make a
scene. I'm a fair man. I tell her to fix herself a nice,
big, cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade and just
sit for a while. And, as long as she is making one for
herself, she may as well make one for me, too --- or
just bring me a cold beer in a frosted mug.

I know that I probably look like a saint in the way I
support Bev, and I'm not saying that showing this much
consideration is easy. Nobody knows better than I do how
frustrating women get as they get older, but, guys, even
if you just use a little more tact and less criticism of
your aging wife because of this letter, I will consider
that writing it was well worthwhile. After all, we are
put on this earth to help each other. 

Signed, 
Wayne 


**EDITOR'S NOTE: **

Wayne died tragically on March 1st of a perforated
rectum. The police report says he was found with a
Calloway extra long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver II golf
club jammed up his rear end, with barely 5 inches of
grip showing and with a sledge hammer lying nearby. 

His wife Beverly was arrested and charged with murder.
The all-woman jury took only 15 minutes to find her Not
Guilty, accepting her defense that Wayne somehow,
without looking, accidentally sat down on his golf club.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Family & Friends On Fridays - A Free Gift For You

Prayer is one of the best free gifts we receive. There is no cost, just a lot of reward. Make sure you pray, and it's important to remember that while you're praying, you have to believe God will answer.

May today be all you need it to be. May the peace of God and the freshness of the Holy Spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight, and conquer all your fears. May God manifest Himself today in ways you have never experienced. May your joys be fulfilled, your dreams be closer, and your prayers be answered. I pray that faith enters a new height for you.  I pray that all of you experience peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, and a true and undying love for God.

Amen

Friday, December 4, 2009

Trivia On Thursdays - Wal-Mart statistics

Americans spend $36,000,000 at Wal-Mart every hour of every day. This works out to $20,928 profit every minute!

Wal-Mart will sell more from January 1st to St. Patrick's Day (March 17) than Target sells all year.

Wal-Mart is bigger than Home Depot, Kroger, Target, Sears, Costco and K-Mart combined.

Wal-Mart employs 1.620 million people and is the largest private employer.

Wal-Mart is the largest company in the history of the WORLD.

Wal-Mart now sells more food than Kroger & Safeway combined and keep in mind they did this in only 15 years.

During this same period, 31 supermarket chains sought bankruptcy including Winn-Dixie.

Wal-Mart now sells more food than any other store in the world.

Wal-Mart has approximately 3,900 stores in the USA of which 1,906 are Super Centers. This is 1,000 more than it had 5 years ago.

This year 7.2 billion different purchasing experiences will occur at a Wal-Mart store. The earth's population is approximately 6.5 billion.

90% of all Americans live within 15 miles of a Wal-Mart store.

Let Wal-Mart bail out Wall Street.  Better yet....let them run the Government!!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Work On Wednesdays - Think You've Got A Tough Job?

I guess it's all in your attitude, upbringing, and life
experience.  You'll know what I mean when you read
this letter from boot camp.  Thank God for our troops!


Dear Ma and Pa:

I am well. Hope you are too. Tell brother Walt
and brother Elmer the Marine Corps beats working
for old man Minch by a mile. Tell them to join up
quick before maybe all of the places are filled.

I was restless at first because you got to stay in bed
till nearly 6 a.m., but I'm getting so I like to sleep late.

Tell Walt and Elmer all you do before breakfast is
smooth your cot and shine some things. No hogs to slop,
feed to pitch, mash to mix, wood to split, fire to lay.
Practically nothing. Men got to shave but it is not so bad,
there's warm water.

Breakfast is strong on trimmings like fruit juice, cereal,
eggs, bacon, etc., but kind of weak on chops, potatoes,
ham, steak, fried eggplant, pie and other regular food.
But tell Walt and Elmer you can always sit by the two
city boys that live on coffee. Their food plus yours holds
you till noon, when you get fed again.

It's no wonder these city boys can't walk much. We go on
"route" marches, which the Platoon Sergeant says are long
walks to harden us. If he thinks so, it is not my place to tell
him different. A "route march" is about as far as to our mailbox
at home. Then the city guys get sore feet and we all ride back
in trucks. The country is nice, but awful flat.

The Sergeant is like a schoolteacher. He nags some.  The Capt.
 is like the school board. Majors and Colonels just ride around
and frown. They don't bother you none.

This next will kill Walt and Elmer with laughing. I keep getting
medals for shooting. I don't know why. The bulls-eye is near as
big as a chipmunk's head and don't move. And it ain't shooting at
you, like the Higgett boys at home. All you got to do is lie there
all comfortable and hit it. You don't even load your own
cartridges. They come in boxes.

Then we have what they call hand-to-hand combat training.
You get to wrestle with them city boys. I have to be real careful
though, they break real easy. It ain't like fighting with that ole
bull at home.  I'm about the best they got in this except for that
Tug Jordan from over in Silver Lake. He joined up the same
time as me. But I'm only 5'6" and 130 pounds and he's 6'8" and
weighs near 300 pounds dry.

Be sure to tell Walt and Elmer to hurry and join before other
fellers get onto this setup and come stampeding in.

Your loving daughter,
Peggy Sue