Disqus - Latest Comments for Michelle

Re: http://kathleenrichards.blogspot.com/2008/12/crafting-bug.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:21:00 -0000

Cool garland!

Re: http://kathleenrichards.blogspot.com/2008/12/merry-sitsmas.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:20:00 -0000

Hey, nice choice of blog backgrounds. :)

Merry SITSmas to you!

Re: http://kathleenrichards.blogspot.com/2009/09/just-another-monday.html

Michelle — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:07:01 -0000

I am all about So you think you can dance as well! Happy FMM!

Re: Home Reserve Guestbook

Michelle — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:15:58 -0000

We had a huge problem getting furniture down into the basement in our small townhouse. Tried several sofas and nothing would fit. We found your site online and have been so pleased with the sofa we bought that we just ordered a loveseat, as well. The assembly directions are the best we have ever encountered. To quote Geico, it\'s \so easy a caveman can do it!\"" We heartily recommend your products and company!"

Re: Home Reserve Guestbook

Michelle — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:15:55 -0000

I wanted to add seating to my living area. I already had a tan colored sofa and a brown recliner. I watch the design videos (very helpful) and decided to go with a blue and brown tone mix. So, I purchased the Classic Chair and a Half (Hondo Spa fabric), ottoman, wall art, and 5 throw pillows (4 for the sofa to blend the fabrics). I LOVE the chair. The fabrics are SUPERB!

Re: Home Reserve Guestbook

Michelle — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:15:12 -0000

Dear HomeReserve,

I opened my boxes and saw a giant 3-dimentional jigsaw puzzle. How cool is that! An hour and a quarter later, I had a love seat. Even better.

Michelle

Re: Baby Fun Day!

Michelle — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:20:50 -0000

I love it, Amy! The sage and brown are a great combination.

Re: http://thedailyasker.blogspot.com/2009/03/why-are-you-letting-him-kick-you-around.html

Michelle — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 23:24:00 -0000

Roxy,

Even though your acquaintance responded defensively when you were talking to her, she still may act on your advice. The idea that someone she knows would not let the car dealer get away with this will stay in her mind, and may prompt her to push a little harder without you knowing.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/03/twilight-mania-giveaway.html

Michelle — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:34:00 -0000

I LOVE Twilight. I love the actors chosen to play the parts and love that Stephanie Meyer has a brief cameo. Yes the books are better, books are always better than movies. My favorite books in the series are Twilight and Breaking Dawn, the beginning and the end. I'm so sad its over. I do love the blonde jokes in the last book between Rosalie and Jacob. I loved Renesmee in the last book, she was so interesting.
okay I could go on forever, here's hoping I'm the lucky <a href="mailto:winner!
mpelosi@partners.org">winner!
mpelosi@partners.org

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/switchflops-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:06:00 -0000

I want the Brandy straps!

mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/switchflops-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:06:00 -0000

I would get the Taylor in brown! Thanks for the chance to win.

mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/switchflops-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:11:00 -0000

I'm a fan on Facebook.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/ltd-chix-giveaway.html

Michelle — Tue, 05 May 2009 12:43:00 -0000

The Short Sleeve - Light Pink/Flamingo Shopping t-shirt would be perfect for me! Thanks for the chance to win.

mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/ltd-chix-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 04 May 2009 19:53:00 -0000

I would love the Shopping shirt. It's perfect for me! Thanks for the chance to win.

mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/good-thymes-bath-body-giveaway.html

Michelle — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:25:00 -0000

I want to try the foot soak...and I love the berry almond body cream.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/cream-perfume-company-giveaway.html

Michelle — Tue, 05 May 2009 21:49:00 -0000

I'd love to try the Organic Raspberry des champs. This is such a neat idea. thanks for the chance to win and introducing this product to me!!

shellbell 1117 at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:39:00 -0000

Follower.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:39:00 -0000

My favorite is the Giraffe Print Shoulder Tote in brown. Thanks for the chance to win!

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:42:00 -0000

I'm a fan on facebook.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 22:42:00 -0000

I have your Mother's Day button on my blog.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:51:00 -0000

I love the Bermuda Buckle Tote!

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:51:00 -0000

Following via Blogger

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/handbag-heaven-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:52:00 -0000

Stumbled this post (username shelnew192)

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/day-6-of-mothers-day-madness-is.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 21:42:00 -0000

I'm a Facebook fan!

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/day-6-of-mothers-day-madness-is.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 21:41:00 -0000

I have your Mother's Day button on my blog.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/day-6-of-mothers-day-madness-is.html

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 21:39:00 -0000

I want the "I HEART NERDS" shirt! Thanks for the chance to win.
mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/joey-junior-purse-organizer-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 16 May 2009 13:40:00 -0000

Is it wrong that the purple pursehook is the thing most intriguing to me? But if I stick with the purse organizers, I have to go with the black suede mini one.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/joolwe-jewelry-loyalty-rewards-program.html

Michelle — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:10:41 -0000

I love the Sterling Silver and 0.20 ctw Diamond Covered Interlocking Open Hearts Necklace! Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/joolwe-jewelry-loyalty-rewards-program.html

Michelle — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:12:03 -0000

Signed up for their newsletter

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/joolwe-jewelry-loyalty-rewards-program.html

Michelle — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:12:57 -0000

Follower.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/joolwe-jewelry-loyalty-rewards-program.html

Michelle — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:14:06 -0000

Tweet-http://twitter.com/MrsMChappell/status/5245072236

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/joolwe-jewelry-loyalty-rewards-program.html

Michelle — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 20:14:57 -0000

I have your button - http://www.michellechappellphotography.blogspot...

Re: Bon Bon Cupcakes – A Review & Giveaway

Michelle — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 16:34:00 -0000

I would choose the Brown Rhinestone Legging in a size 2-4. Thanks for the chance to win!

mrsmchappell at gmail dot com

Re: Exergen Temporal Scanner – A Review & Giveaway

Michelle — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:36:00 -0000

I was using an ear thermometer, but I can't find it so for now I'm using mother's intuition! I could really use this. Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: Wordless Wednesday – Cool

Michelle — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 11:29:00 -0000

Little Miss Diva. Love it!

Re: Tempt My Tummy Tuesday – Spinach Lasagna

Michelle — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 22:43:00 -0000

I used to LOVE spinach lasagne growing up but have never made it myself.... oddly enough as I make regular lasagne all the time. Thanks for the reminder. And I've never beaten my eggs first, but I can see how that would be a benefit. I'll definitely try that next time!

Re: Wordless Wednesday – Cold

Michelle — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 08:50:00 -0000

Oh so cold!!!

Re: Crock Pot Challenge – Week One

Michelle — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 19:20:00 -0000

I have a slow cooker pot roast on the menu this week, and a couple of slow cooker meals planned for next week! Looking forward to seeing all of the recipes!

Re: A Gift Idea for the Fun-Loving Mom

Michelle — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 18:03:00 -0000

Sounds fun!

Re: Wordless Wednesday – Future Gamer

Michelle — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 07:34:00 -0000

very serious :)

Re: Wordless Wednesday

Michelle — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 07:42:00 -0000

awesome!

Re: Menu Plan Monday – November 3rd

Michelle — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 00:08:00 -0000

How fun for your child to have a cooking class,my young dd goes to one every week and loves it.

Re: Turtle Chex Mix Bars – A Review

Michelle — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:31:00 -0000

My husband and I sometimes drop our kids off at youth group and then go to the Cheesecake Factory to indulge in a slice of cheesecake.

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/10/i-love-this-recipe.html

Michelle — Sun, 22 Oct 2006 14:39:00 -0000

Hi back.Thanks for your comment..:)IT's a yummy recipe that's for sure..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/10/monday-menu-plan.html

Michelle — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 13:19:00 -0000

Thanks Angie.I will have a great week.Thanks for stopping by.
NOw I'm going to your site!!To check it out!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/10/monday-menu-plan.html

Michelle — Mon, 23 Oct 2006 19:42:00 -0000

Ok.I'll come clean it's the M&M version!!! so it's very easy!!Michelle

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/10/banana-fo-fanabread.html

Michelle — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 01:04:00 -0000

I think a coffee will be in order!!! Bring on the Grande Peppermint latte!!!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/10/slow-cooker-chilli.html

Michelle — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 12:38:00 -0000

No trouble playing along.Although Sandra you're recipe looks so yummy

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/11/baked-lemon-sponge.html

Michelle — Thu, 02 Nov 2006 16:09:00 -0000

isn't it?? MIchelle

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/11/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 09 Nov 2006 14:15:00 -0000

Stacy ,it does look yummy doesn't it?
WE'll be trying it on the w/end.I belive.
Sandra happy to share and play along Big hugs back to you both.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2006/11/menu-plan-monday_27.html

Michelle — Mon, 27 Nov 2006 10:15:00 -0000

Morning Emma and Jen. you're both welcome.now to have a look at both of yours :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/01/laura-is-once-again-hosting-menu-plan.html

Michelle — Mon, 01 Jan 2007 14:57:00 -0000

Thanks Laura.. Happy New Year

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/01/today-is-crockpot-thursday-and-lovely.html

Michelle — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 16:18:00 -0000

no problem Sandra.This sure helps on Thursday meal plannning.Hugs back to you .

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/01/slow-cooking-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 21:20:00 -0000

Hi jill and elizabeth.
thanks for visiting us in blogland...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/01/baked-black-bean-wings.html

Michelle — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 23:55:00 -0000

Ah hah back at ya .I love the blog I'm on there now as you can see :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/01/menu-plan-monday_27.html

Michelle — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:42:00 -0000

We'd love to have you eat at our house.It's a little loud tho' with little miss!!You'd love the salmon done the way I make it!!!!see you at 5pm !!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/02/laura-is-hosting-menu-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 02:00:00 -0000

alison;
thanks for the comment:)
I'm looking forward to valentines dinner with rob.have a great week

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/02/laura-is-hosting-menu-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 02:28:00 -0000

hi kelleigh . My parents are from england..have a great week:)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/02/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 15:06:00 -0000

Hi Elizabeth,Annie and Owj(is it claudia?)
I have a moment to look at your recipes slow cooking :) girls busy playing with dolls :)Have a great weekend..Michelle

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/06/good-day-for-aquarium.html

Michelle — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 19:38:00 -0000

oh yes that's us the gallavanting duo...;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/07/hello-muddah-hello-fatherbunny-daycare.html

Michelle — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 13:17:00 -0000

Lol ELiza and Lola.hugs and kisses hug a bunny..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/07/wordless-wednesdaybunny-love.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 01:08:00 -0000

We looked after friends Lop Eared Bunnies,Lola is the black and white one ) and Eliza is the Brown and white one) Hug a Bunny is ours the little black and white one.Happy WW.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/07/sick.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 18:42:00 -0000

Thanks Tiff.I'll pass that onto her ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/07/wordless-wednesdaydonuts.html

Michelle — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 23:07:00 -0000

We all went to Tim Horton's for snack after her class.She loved it..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/rainsun-park-time.html

Michelle — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 23:08:00 -0000

Thanks Stephanie ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/rocky-point-park.html

Michelle — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:59:00 -0000

Thanks Sandra ;-) I love the layout too and thanks to Lena..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/pie-101or-mckennas-first-time-making.html

Michelle — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 23:50:00 -0000

thanks Kelsey ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/wordless-wednesdayparktime-with-grandma.html

Michelle — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:54:00 -0000

My Mum and Dad were out for a visit and We went for lunch as well as the park :-) Lots of Fun for all.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/08/wordless-wednesdaymy-little-butterfly.html

Michelle — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 20:27:00 -0000

This was this afternoon at the park,she loves getting her face painted :) The girls are just awesome at the park.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/09/free-flowers.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 11:20:00 -0000

it is isn't it Kelsey,thanks for the blog visit.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/09/wordless-wednesdaythe-fair.html

Michelle — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 00:23:00 -0000

This was the P.N.E on Monday the last day of the fair,Dal Richards performs every year he is 90 1/2 years old ..McKenna had a blast there is a slideshow below this post thanks for visiting...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/09/wordless-wednesday-hand-prints.html

Michelle — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:14:00 -0000

When Daddy got home from work on monday evening we thought that we'd do some crafts...she does love her paints..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/09/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:11:00 -0000

McKenna was sick last week with cold & cough as well as a fever so she was watching a video with Daddy...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/tag-youre-it.html

Michelle — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:08:00 -0000

no problem renee ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/thanksgiving-dinner.html

Michelle — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:41:00 -0000

Thank you Susanne it was lovely..How was yours??

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/wordless-wednesdaythe-resident-artist.html

Michelle — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:05:00 -0000

Lol..I've been drawn by a three and a half year old.McKenna loves art anything..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/wordless-wednesdaythe-resident-artist.html

Michelle — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 12:37:00 -0000

Hi ladies
The art is on the easel from Ikea.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/fridays-fave-five.html

Michelle — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 11:32:00 -0000

The Recipe is here

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/stuck-for-title.html

Michelle — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:07:00 -0000

Thanks Ladies :) This was the other night at the park when she was climbing up the snake ladder..or whatever you call it.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/blogger-giveaway-time.html

Michelle — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:23:00 -0000

I can never resist a new cookbook!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/10/blogger-giveaway-time.html

Michelle — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:25:00 -0000

I love cookbooks! I can never have too many! Thank you for the giveaway!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/wordless-wednesdayat-ballet.html

Michelle — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:22:00 -0000

We saw Sleeping Beauty By The Moscow Ballet.McKenna loved her first ballet..She's wearing
"Prima Ballerina"cardigan ,top and tights with ballet shoes on them.I had to dress her accordingly.( Of Course)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/menu-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 23:21:00 -0000

I"m glad that it made you laugh ;-) I'll take a picture of the leftovers ..which are yummy.Have a great week too.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/quiet-moment.html

Michelle — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 01:01:00 -0000

Thanks Kate :) I used For Photoshoppingit's free for basic and $24.95 a year for paid.I think it's worth it ,also I have message board friends who are awesome with photoshop.So that is nice.Thanks for the visit.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/quiet-moment.html

Michelle — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 01:09:00 -0000

I used Sepia and focal soften, as well as matte for the outside of the picture.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/few-pictures-of-girl-her-bunny.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 15:59:00 -0000

I knew what you meant ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/wordless-wednesddaya-beautiful-day-out.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:35:00 -0000

With the sunshine today ,We thought that We'd go down to the water usually at this time of the year it's pretty chilly down there but with the sun on our backs it was really warm.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/11/giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:20:00 -0000

I love to curl up under a warm blanket with a fire in the fireplace and watch a feel good movie or read a good book!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/wordless-wednesday-new-clothes.html

Michelle — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:19:00 -0000

Ahhh Kailani and Renee' you're both too kind there gymbo clothing ,I have a slight addiction..*ahem*

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/wordless-wednesdayfamily-portraits.html

Michelle — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:27:00 -0000

Hi Susanne & Pam..
Thanks for your sweet comments..For the photo above
I set the timer in b & w. and sharpened it.then I posterized it .All in picnik.love that site. ;-)
Oh and that's Rob's Mum visiting us.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/05/good-thymes-bath-body-giveaway.html

Michelle — Thu, 07 May 2009 11:26:00 -0000

following on twitter

Re: Shea Terra Organics Giveaway plus good green news!

Michelle — Thu, 15 May 2008 23:34:00 -0000

I need these products because I... hmm, I can't come up with a cool reason.

Because they're way cool and they're free and I've not been keeping my new year's resolution to do something nice for myself once a day and my feet are yucky from running and summer's coming and I'm too busy to focus and need something to relax me... and just because!

ahnya .at/ excite d com

Re: A green office and some help (not mental)!

Michelle — Tue, 13 May 2008 23:02:00 -0000

Congrats on the expansion.

And just because you move your stuff into an office doesn't mean that it will stop walking away. At least if your house is anything like mine...

And I work from home (2 days a week, third is in the office), too. There's NO WAY my kids could be home and have me work. On the day my parents do childcare, I've learned that they have to go to their house rather than hanging out here. They're just too much in my way and wanting to hang out with me. No weakness on your part, and as long as you're comfortable with what you do, that's what counts!

Good luck!

Re: Stonyfield has my vote and one lucky winner will get $50 in free yogurt!!!

Michelle — Fri, 09 May 2008 23:34:00 -0000

I loooooooove Stonyfield! I use it all the time to top my homemade granola (plain or vanilla for me, thanks!).

If I'm eating it by itself, my favorite is caramel, peach and/or mocha latte, depending on my mood. Mmmm! And it's healthy, too!

Oh yeah, and the baby is officially up to $3,530!

Both my kids loooove YoBaby and used to eat it all the time, but now I have them eating the grown up kind. So cute when they steal bites from my yogurt and granola and then ask for their own!

ahnya /a/t! excite d com

Re: Green & Clean Moms take on Motherhood

Michelle — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:38:00 -0000

Very cute. I've yet to find a pic that I want to post for that contest. I'm thinking really hard. I love the starfish moment!

Re: Hangin’ it on the line

Michelle — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:18:00 -0000

Funny, as I was eating lunch today, I was looking at the deck and thinking that I should start doing that ... but first ask my neighbors to either side if they were ok with it (we back to a conservancy, so they'd be the only ones to possibly see). NO one around here does that, and I wouldn't want to be shunned in my own neighborhood, but if someone asks nicely, can you really say no? How do you start when you live with other people in sight of your lines?

Re: Hangin’ it on the line

Michelle — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:35:00 -0000

Great idea! I use cloth diapers and while for most of the year I can't dry them outside (they'd be frozen from Chicago wind), we are finally enjoying nice weather. The other day I dried them outside for the first time. And the sun really does bleach out stains. It's great!

Re: An abundance of "green"

Michelle — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:07:00 -0000

That's funny that you mention produce bags. I was thinking about that today as I was straightening up the house and found a stray one under the couch cushions (really, I have no idea). I haven't found the answer to that one yet... and I buy a LOT of fruit and veggies. At the farmer's market, it's easy but we're not to that time of year yet around me.

Re: Hope, inspiration and a green clean giveaway for Earth Day 2008!

Michelle — Thu, 01 May 2008 13:57:00 -0000

I've been wanting to try Shaklee products. Happy Earth Day, all. For green cleaning, I use microfiber cloths as much as possible and a vinegar-water mixture is great for windows. Used coffee grounds is a great house plant fertilizer, and I clean my coffee pot and toilet bowl with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda. Works like a charm o both. Thanks for the great giveaway and for all the tips in the comments here--I especially like the idea of using newspapers as a weed-blocker.

Re: Hope, inspiration and a green clean giveaway for Earth Day 2008!

Michelle — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 23:53:00 -0000

Happy Earth Day to you! I still have a ways to go with my kids (see today's post!), but at 2 and 4, what do you expect? We do what we can though, and hopefully it'll sink in eventually.

My tip? I go to the local coffee places and ask for their grounds (which would otherwise be tossed) and to the haircut places and ask for their trimmings (ditto). I mix those two in with the dirt which does three things:

1) It removes waste from landfills

2) It helps keep the deer away (hair)

3) It is a great fertiziler, especially for tomatoes I think (both, but mostly the coffee grounds)

What it doesn't do: cost me a dime!

Oooo, and my other favorite -- regular old vinegar kills plants errr weeds. I pour just a bit on my sidewalk if weeds start to come up by the driveway or in my landscaping if one of the pricker plants come up, a bit of vinegar. Totally non-toxic and it kills those buggers in a couple of hours.

I'm done for now :)

ahnya /at/ excite dot (com)

Re: Should a blogger make some "green" off their blog?

Michelle — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 17:01:00 -0000

That totally makes sense to me. Plus, your only shot at keeping readers is their trust of you. If you "sell out" as the fear may be and don't provide reviews that are truly unbiased, as others purchase products based on your recommendations, you'll have problems. And if you can do it and stay neutral, why not get paid? You're already doing the work; treat yourself with the respect your time deserves. Good luck!

And it's funny, I was in Costco today thinking about you and wondering how far you were taking some of the green stuff with your kids wrt what they in the end are and aren't able to enjoy that's just part of being a kid. This post gave me a bit of that answer -- nice timing!

Re: Afraid of becoming a green "freak" and scaring my kids teachers!

Michelle — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 20:41:00 -0000

My daughter's preschool actually started down this path this year (our first year there, so maybe they've done some in the past but it appears new). A group of moms approached the director -- having allies helped! -- and suggested starting a "green" movement to help teach the kids, etc etc. They started the "Green Feet" program. They're propogating reusable bags throughout the school, putting together educational newsletters (that I cringe when I get as they're printed on colored paper), etc. It's done with the school's support and in conjunction with what they're trying to teach the children, so maybe that's a way for you?

It's not an easy answer or topic, of course, but kudos to you for being concerned!

Re: BPA FREE Sippy Cup Review

Michelle — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 11:46:00 -0000

My son is just starting to try out his Gerber sippy cup, but I've been looking like crazy for a quality, BPA free option. Right now, I just put water in it, though I'm not sure he's had any success getting any out!
michellemeuer@yahoo.com

Re: BPA FREE Sippy Cup Review

Michelle — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:07:00 -0000

My Daughter will drink out of anything! Since Day one she has been a drinking fool. I have an asortment of sippies including the Nuby Sport Sipper and Playtex Brand sippies.
Her favorite drink Milk!

Michelle_pss[at]hotmail[dot]com

Re: BPA FREE Sippy Cup Review

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 23:07:00 -0000

And really, I can follow directions, I swear....

ahnya /at/ excite dot com

Re: BPA FREE Sippy Cup Review

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 23:06:00 -0000

Wow, I feel like such a bad mom. I just use the Gerber ones that were at Target that I saw other friends using (with slightly older children) that that swore didn't leak. I didn't even think about the plastic type. Apparently I need to rethink what I'm doing with her...

Ok and what I'm doing in general as I drink out of a reusable plastic mug constantly myself.

Great reviews, thanks -- I have a feeling I know what I'll be posting about tomorrow!

Re: No More GM Vehicles For Me, Mr. Global Warming is a Crock!

Michelle — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 14:46:00 -0000

There is a really great documentary called Who Killed the Electric Car, which is basically about the birth and then death of GMs electric car. They took all of them back from the owners and had them destroyed (yes-destroyed!) because of pressure from big oil, etc. After watching it, I told my husband we could not get any more GMs (we have one already). I'm not naive enough to think that all car companies are thinking about their profits first and foremost and care little for the environment, but after watching the documentary, I refused to give GM any more money on principle.

Re: Green cleaning product for the best idea! Green & Clean Mom needs your help!

Michelle — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 10:07:00 -0000

This idea comes from a mom with a very heavy 8 month old...get them gift certificates for a massage or some kind of spa treatment. Oh, I would kill for something like that these days!

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/04/good-home-cookbook-giveaway.html

Michelle — Thu, 07 May 2009 23:45:00 -0000

My grandmother's lasagna yummy

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/08/think-fun-games-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:49:29 -0000

Chocolate Fix looks fun! Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/08/think-fun-games-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:50:03 -0000

Subscribed via Google Reader.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/08/think-fun-games-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:50:28 -0000

Follower

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/08/think-fun-games-giveaway.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:50:44 -0000

I have your button

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/wordless-wednesdayfamily-portraits.html

Michelle — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 10:53:00 -0000

what a great family picture! I'm still trying to get mine =P

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/friday-fave-five.html

Michelle — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 03:35:00 -0000

LOL Mum...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/down-by-bay-on-cold-blustery-day.html

Michelle — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 04:04:00 -0000

Actually Jay *I think* it may be called foolish...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/12/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 00:30:00 -0000

My sister Amanda took us girls out for shopping ( A Birthday Present for me ,I picked out clothes of course) and also lunch out At East Side Mario's I'm afraid It failed to impress me :(

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/01/wordless-wednesday-puppy-love.html

Michelle — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 00:21:00 -0000

The Pug Puppy is my sister's new one (Pennylane)she also has a boxer named Ruben.THe other two dogs are my Mum and Dad's Barney the black one and Chia the tan and white one.I was so happy to get a picture of the dogs in front of Mum and Dad's tree.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/01/wordless-wednesday-foggy-times-in.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 15:11:00 -0000

This picture was taken by someone at Cypress Mountain this is downtown Vancouver the mountains to the right are Vancouver Island belive it or not.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/02/wordless-wednesdayhappy-despite.html

Michelle — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 23:25:00 -0000

This was Monday night as We girls made Ratatouille.We'd Rented the movie...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/wordless-wednesdayfrom-sun-to-rain-to.html

Michelle — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:25:00 -0000

This was on Sunday more pictures are
href="http://tinyurl.com/d54rlcl">here
Pretty unbeliveable!Today it was -7!!!!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/wordless-wednesdayfrom-sun-to-rain-to.html

Michelle — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 23:26:00 -0000

I don't know why that's not working the way it should!!!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/bunnies-pose-for-pictures.html

Michelle — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 04:41:52 -0000

aren't they Roberta Anne ;)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/ultimate-blog-party-2009-taste-of.html

Michelle — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 12:29:00 -0000

Hi there! I love to meet a two L Michelle like myself.
Your family photos look great, and your bunnies are super cute

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/our-ultimate-blog-party-pictures.html

Michelle — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 16:42:00 -0000

Dropping by from the UBP. Cute pics :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/03/wordless-wednesday-girl-her-bunny.html

Michelle — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 23:59:00 -0000

My Princess and her bunny posed this afternoon.one happily and one not so happily.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/04/wordless-wednesday-springtime-is-here.html

Michelle — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:06:00 -0000

McKenna on the way to pre-school ;) It was so warm yesterday.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/04/wordless-wednesday-carrot-time-for-hug.html

Michelle — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 00:18:00 -0000

McKenna and Hug A Bunny *can you tell who named her??* We've had her almost a year now..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/04/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 23:23:00 -0000

I bought this dress from a message board that I belong to.It has a matching dolly dress as well.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/05/wordless-wednesday-bike-ride.html

Michelle — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:43:47 -0000

I love that last picture of the youngest touching her sisters handle bar. So cute.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/06/wordless-wednesdaytime-once-again-to.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 23:42:16 -0000

This was this evening at the waterpark.She loves it! I love it b/c I have my magazines and water or coffee (in the am) and just sit to supervise her.

Re: http://www.jennifervalerie.com/2008/03/my-first-ultimate-blog-party-was-great.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:37:00 -0000

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment on our blog! Looking forward to surfing around yours...

Michelle :)

Re: http://www.jennifervalerie.com/2008/04/its-big-one.html

Michelle — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:46:00 -0000

Thanks for visiting my blog...wow, that is one HUUUUGE melon!

Yes, I would love information on how to do the strikethrough on text in links. Thanks for sharing, if you've got it! :)

Re: http://www.jennifervalerie.com/2008/05/creating-strikethrough-text.html

Michelle — Sat, 03 May 2008 12:26:00 -0000

Thank you! :D

Re: http://triplesmalaysia.blogspot.com/2009/09/some-sweet-bites.html

Michelle — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 03:48:37 -0000

Michelle Paulsen here. I have got a lot of pictures of the event on my blog.

mixue-rainandsnow.blogspot.com

but please give credits to me if you use any of my pictures.thank you for understanding

Re: Pierogies for Supper

Michelle — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 22:56:00 -0000

I love pierogies. It's been eons since I had them. Since I'm the only one in my fam who likes them, I go for the lazy man's route. I put them in a bowl with some water boil in the microwave, drain the water and toss on a touch a butter. Mmmmm!

Re: Smoky Mac & Cheese

Michelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 16:47:00 -0000

Mmmmmm. I love adult mac and cheese (finally), but only the really good kind. I'll have to look for the fire roasted tomatoes, as I didn't know they premade those. I've been roasting my own in the oven, but it's not the easiest thing to do when I'm short on time -- I love this idea better... and I LOVE tomatoes in my mac and cheese. Thanks!

Re: I love pearls – Pearl Paradise giveaway

Michelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 07:43:00 -0000

Pearls are my absolute favourite. I really liked the The Vivian Collection AA+ 8.5 to 9.5 mm White Akoya Pearl and Diamond Pendant. It is simple enough to wear every day, yet very beautiful.

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Re: I love pearls – Pearl Paradise giveaway

Michelle — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 19:25:00 -0000

I like the White Akoya Pearl Necklace. I just like the classic look of them. Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: Easy Cheesecake Truffles

Michelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 12:27:00 -0000

the s'more pound cake looks/sounds delicious!

Re: Easy Cheesecake Truffles

Michelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:25:00 -0000

Cheesecake, chocolate, and raspberries...three of my favourite foods. The Elegant Chocolate Cheesecake looks wonderful.

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Re: Sharing wonderful

Michelle — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 22:51:00 -0000

What a great story! Your daughter is adorable.

Re: Grace’s Kitchen – a preview

Michelle — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 01:33:00 -0000

Great! I am looking forward to it! Check out my blog for my foodie kid.

Re: Mirror, mirror…

Michelle — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:01:00 -0000

Those are such sweet pictures. I love the one of her looking up at you.

Re: My Mom Rules!

Michelle — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:22:00 -0000

i love it! She is a little cutie pie!

Re: My head is too big for a tiara

Michelle — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 00:47:00 -0000

A woman after my own heart! I couldn't agree more. H and I have gone rounds over his "nickname" for our daughter, which obviously makes me want to barf every time I hear it... you guessed right, he calls her "princess" ::gag::
I will definitely be checking out that list.

Re: Sweet Life – a giveaway!

Michelle — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 15:17:00 -0000

My life is sweet because I have a great family and so many caring friends. We have really been blessed.

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Re: A giveaway!

Michelle — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 15:44:00 -0000

i would love a birthday invitation for my princess or thank you card. yeah for june momma's!!

Re: http://ourlifewiththeprincess.blogspot.com/2009/10/family-picture.html

Michelle — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:31:52 -0000

That's cute! Love it.

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/08/life-and-death.html

Michelle — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 21:26:45 -0000

Sharon- thanks for the comment! I'm so glad you found our blog.

Benjamin looks so sweet in that tiny little hat, I'm so sorry for your heartbreak. How much did he weigh? I'd love to read a blog entry about him, if you were ever up to writing one!

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/09/he-gives-and-he-takes-away.html

Michelle — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:45:36 -0000

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful son and your beautiful faith with us. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I hope I handle it with the grace and increased faith that you have.

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/09/im-expanding.html

Michelle — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:58:35 -0000

Keep seeking His face and He will mold your desires. Praying for you.

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/10/need-prayers.html

Michelle — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:39:05 -0000

Hey Sharon, what a neat idea!

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/10/thankful-thursday_29.html

Michelle — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:31:05 -0000

Awww...I'm thankful for your free internet, also!

Re: http://ourlittleapartment.blogspot.com/2008/09/from-scratch-hardcore.html

Michelle — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:29:00 -0000

Thanks for the recipes site. I blame being in college for all of my convenient shopping choices, but I do plan on getting into homemade cooking style HEAVY DUTY once me and Josh move into a house together.

Re: Just a Part of the Whole

Michelle — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 09:59:00 -0000

A friend sent me here to read your story. After reading I think it must have to do with our commonalities. I have not been diagnosed with AS -- I don't have a diagnosis -- but the life sounds much the same. And the fact that my avatar, most of the time, is of my face hidden with my puppy. :roll:

Your attitude is great! I'm not as accepting of my illness yet, but am working on getting there. It's good to read your thoughts.

Hang in there and God bless!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/revealing-gold.html

Michelle — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:07:00 -0000

Peeling away the layers, being willing to become vulnerable...I desire it. He tends to be relentless in the peeling away process, but at least when He does it, it's love.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/holy-blog-hits-batman.html

Michelle — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 16:38:00 -0000

"But now when I open my eyes and my body hurts and I have to make myself get my feet on the floor, I'm thinking about whether or not someone has left a comment and wondering what I'll write about tomorrow."

Blogging has changed my world too. It's strange what it can do for a person. It's my link to the world, to getting past the bedroom.

Great post!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/in-seclusion.html

Michelle — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:41:00 -0000

I'm loving your attitude -- praying for a bit of it!

Take care, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/i-wasnt-mean.html

Michelle — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 11:46:00 -0000

I came over from Without Wax. It is a good source for thought provoking messages when we can't get out to church.

Great thoughts, Gitz. If we would only see the need in the other instead of always looking within. Reaching out to a hurting world -- Oh, Lord, break my heart with the things that break Your heart. Let me see people as You see them. Show me where I can be a friend.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/winking-from-womb.html

Michelle — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 20:41:00 -0000

That's awesome!! Technology is amazing...wow.

But now...GOD...He's really awesome:

Certainly you made my mind and heart; you wove me together in my mother’s womb. I will give you thanks because your deeds are awesome and amazing. You knew me thoroughly; my bones were not hidden from you, when I was made in secret and sewed together in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw me when I was inside the womb. All the days ordained for me were recorded in your scroll before one of them came into existence.

~Psalms 139:13-16

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/tinkerbell-and-lost-treasure-soundtrack.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:33:10 -0000

I have your button on my sidebar.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/tinkerbell-and-lost-treasure-soundtrack.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:32:53 -0000

Follower.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/tinkerbell-and-lost-treasure-soundtrack.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:31:44 -0000

I love Sleeping Beauty, but my daughter is all about good ole Mickey! Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/charitable-creations-jewelry-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:50:11 -0000

I have your button.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/charitable-creations-jewelry-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:49:56 -0000

Subscribed via RSS.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/charitable-creations-jewelry-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:49:24 -0000

Follower.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/charitable-creations-jewelry-giveaway.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:48:52 -0000

My charity of choice is the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Love the Hand Stamped Name Necklace with Pearl/Birthstone! Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:44:05 -0000

Facebook fan

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:43:26 -0000

I have your button

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:43:03 -0000

Tweet - http://twitter.com/MrsMChappell/status/4954117381

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:41:44 -0000

Follower

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:41:31 -0000

Subscribed via RSS

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/wow-wow-wubbzy-giveaway.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 19:41:03 -0000

Max & Ruby, hands down! Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/get-ready-for-your-ride-in-koup.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:35:58 -0000

I learned that they are developing a new crossover vehicle that goes on Sale in January! The 2011 Sorento looks awesome. Thanks for the chance to win.

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/get-ready-for-your-ride-in-koup.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:38:44 -0000

I have your button on my blog

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/get-ready-for-your-ride-in-koup.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:38:23 -0000

Tweet - http://twitter.com/MrsMChappell/status/5053037344

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/get-ready-for-your-ride-in-koup.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:38:05 -0000

Follower

Re: http://www.fairyblogmotherblog.com/2009/10/get-ready-for-your-ride-in-koup.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 17:37:18 -0000

Subscribed via RSS

Re: Recipe for a vegetarian dessert made with vegetables!

Michelle — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 22:57:27 -0000

I've heard so much about zucchini bread and other dessert with zucchini but I've never had it before.

I think I just might have to try this zucchini thing! ;)

Re: Recipe for the best sauce in the world

Michelle — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 09:14:18 -0000

I love hollandaise sauce and I think it was the first true sauce I ever tried to make and I was successful too.

And you're right hollandaise sauce is delicious with so many things. Heck I could drink it!

Re: A last minute vegetarian recipe good enough for company

Michelle — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:31:14 -0000

Ahhhh...that sounds so good! My Mom used to make something similar with cabbage and she added a bit of vinegar too.

Re: How to feed the kids vegetables without resorting to subterfuge

Michelle — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 17:03:00 -0000

This is exciting! I am glad to know that another book is out there for helping parents - and especially one that doesn't promote lying to kids!

Re: Crayon Recycling

Michelle — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 17:03:00 -0000

We got some of the melted crayons in our Valentine's box this year -- shaped like hearts even. Totally loved it (I'm not a big candy fan). I didn't know the trick with the markers, but we're totally doing this as someone in the house who shall remain nameless but is 2 years old tends to not snap the tops back on all the way and daddies don't always pay attention to this, so we've been throwing away a bunch of pretty much brand new markers lately. Way cool!

Re: Green & Clean Mom Pre-launch Giveaway

Michelle — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:20:00 -0000

Ok, you are officially plugged... Personally, I can't wait to see all that you've got on your new site. I keep going back and forth between C and E (not that the other prizes aren't just as cool), but I think in the end, the Kiwi magazine wins out. Oooo, too much on my reading list! I'm back to the green cleaners and prize C. I think....

Good luck with the new site!

Re: TOXIC car seats…what’s next?

Michelle — Sat, 24 May 2008 22:46:00 -0000

Now that's awfully depressing. Seriously, what's the alternative? How can that be allowed... silently fuming here. As my children are required to be in them until at least age 8. That's a *lot* of driving and sitting in carseats.

Re: Green & Clean Mom drives a SUV…so what!

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 23:41:00 -0000

Yay! I'm completely with you (driving my 11 year old Explorer because I can't decide what kind of car I want to get but at least I'm having fewer cars go to scrap because I hold onto them?).

Good luck with finding a new car!

Do what you can. It's all you can do, and no one is perfect. Not that I (or anyone else) can't do better...

Re: A green bikini wax?

Michelle — Mon, 19 May 2008 23:33:00 -0000

Wow, not something I'd thought about a ton. Except that a Brazilian is just not ever, ever going to happen. Good point though. A scissors just don't cut it (no pun intended), and I'm not a DIYer in that realm.

Re: A not so green thumb!

Michelle — Sun, 18 May 2008 23:31:00 -0000

I'm with you on hating the weeds but hating the chemicals more. I actually heard something about the synthetic weed killers being better for the environment and made of more natural stuff than regular weed killers.... but I've yet to put anything on my lawn yet. And maaan are we the pride of the neighborhood right now ;)

Re: I’m headed to the green, green jungle!

Michelle — Sat, 17 May 2008 22:07:00 -0000

Well, happy birthday to the little boy!

And my thought is that you can't force kids to do things that are "good" for them like this when it conflicts with their very strong desires and passions or it backfires later. I'd rather have a few non-green birthday parties and the like but have the wee ones grow up to appreciate and life a green lifestyle long term than feel like it was forced on them and rebel. You do what you can -- and you do plenty!

Re: Zappos is doing their part to "go green"!

Michelle — Fri, 16 May 2008 23:49:00 -0000

I'm right there with you in wanting the motion sensor faucets. My work has them in our new building, and I'm debating getting them when we remodel our bathrooms. Don't know how practical it is in the home side yet, but... I love the concept!

And Zappos so totally rocks!

Re: Shea Terra Organics Giveaway plus good green news!

Michelle — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:17:00 -0000

I keep threatening my three kids that I am going to run away to an isolated, tropical island. This spa treatment would help me relax and maintain my sanity at home so that I don't have to search for that island!

Re: Shea Terra Organics Giveaway plus good green news!

Michelle — Fri, 16 May 2008 13:43:00 -0000

After a long, cold winter, my skin could definitely use some pampering. Having some great products to try would be wonderful

Michelle

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/02/in-ella-fitzgerald-mood.html

Michelle — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 17:45:00 -0000

I did hear that Jules!!!!Before we had found the name McKenna we were sure of the name Ella!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/03/menu-plan-monday_25.html

Michelle — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 12:55:00 -0000

Teri and Annie thanks for the comments!! I'm so looking forward to making the beef tenderloin with dr.pepper..yumm oh

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/03/menu-plan-monday_25.html

Michelle — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 -0000

Your menu looks yuumy!
Have a great week!
Michelle

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/07/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 13:33:00 -0000

Thanks Renee & Sandra. I've made this one before and it's one meal where Mckenna eats the mushrooms without knowing *sneaky isn't it*!!!!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/07/hi-everyone-weve-had-good-week-here.html

Michelle — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 20:42:00 -0000

Hi Annie,Bridget,Sandra.I'm glad to hear that you all like the recipes.Sandra We love the Ravioli and sure to love the pork chops too!!!!hugs and have a great week.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/08/wordless-wednesdays.html

Michelle — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 02:35:00 -0000

That is way to darling . . .
Have a happy WW!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/08/slow-cooker-thursday_15.html

Michelle — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 12:11:00 -0000

hi sandra doesn't it sound yumm-o?? i love love rachel ray mag. so does hubby...;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/08/slow-cooker-thursday_23.html

Michelle — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 11:39:00 -0000

please click on the heading for some reason it's not showing up in the post..*grr blogspot* my apoligies.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/09/menu-plan-monday_16.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 12:09:00 -0000

Hi Sandra & Annie.
Thanks Annie for the comments,Sandra do you have the cookbook??or cookbooks.lmk

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/09/fall-into-reading-challenge.html

Michelle — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 20:55:00 -0000

Hi OWj!!! SOrry for the delay in posting the books that I'm reading.:-) I was doing housework.. ;( I will check out your books thanks.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/09/slow-cooker-thursday_26.html

Michelle — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 12:14:00 -0000

Hi Sandra it does sound good doesn't it?? I'll let you know after dinner what we think ;=)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/09/caption-me.html

Michelle — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 02:51:00 -0000

Hi Mrs.Brownstone..

Thanks for the blog visit;=)
I will take that into consideration.have a great day.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/wordless-wednesday_09.html

Michelle — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 12:48:00 -0000

Hi Kc and Andrea.They did have fun throwing leaves in the water.That must have been a good thirty minutes at least..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/slow-cooker-thursday_17.html

Michelle — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 12:15:00 -0000

Hi Bridget & Renee.I can't wait to put this together during nap time
;-) Thanks for visiting!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/slow-cooker-thursday_17.html

Michelle — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 15:27:00 -0000

Hi Elizabeth & Sandra.
soups just scream fall/winter don't they???Sandra you're family will love you if you make it for them.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/wordless-wednesday_20.html

Michelle — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 02:26:00 -0000

Hi all
it was quite a cold day at the park,hence the gloves/mitts hanging from her wrist..we were only there about 15 minutes,compared to our hour or so play:)Oh and do you like her new haircut???that was before the park.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/purse-anyone.html

Michelle — Thu, 22 Nov 2007 12:16:00 -0000

what there's a family skate????oh that changes things..no babysitter for McKenna then!!!!that's ok. I can't wait to meet Brandon!!!!yayayayayyayayayaay

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/wordless-wednesday_27.html

Michelle — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 23:43:00 -0000

On Friday My Happy Shopper & I went to gymboree and picked up the cupcake dress and leggings.And since the 30% was applied in canada who could resist???that and some more clothing we were both happy!!!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/menu-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 23:42:00 -0000

Hi Laura!!Thanks for the blog visit!I'm sure we will enjoy our night out shopping and having dinner as well *we've been together now 7 yrs*where has the time gone??ttyl

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/menu-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 23:58:00 -0000

Thanks Natalie and Candi for visiting.Thanks for the tips on the corn dogs..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 12:44:00 -0000

we were making almond roca saturday night after coming in from the snow.it's very simple ,I'll post the recipe later in it's own post:)happy ww

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 16:14:00 -0000

Hi Susie and everyone else of course:=)it's simple

lay aluminum foil on the cookie sheet and grease it.lay saltines on top of it.
melt 1 cup of margarine or butter
add 1 cup of light brown sugar.
pour on top of the crackers and put in a 350 oven.for 6-8 minutes.take out of the oven add a bag of chocolate chips.turn off the oven and put back in for 3 minutes.top with slivered almonds.when cooled break it in pieces..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 21:44:00 -0000

lol ellen :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/wordless-wednesday_11.html

Michelle — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 18:46:00 -0000

compared to last year and the year before when we actually sat on Santa's lap ;) this year we were shy and we cried :( oh well..there's always next year!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/slow-cooker-thursday_12.html

Michelle — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 21:41:00 -0000

oh yes Mari you must have wine & sourdough bread!lol

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/12/wordless-wednesday_18.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 23:56:00 -0000

We finally got the tree up this weekend.Rob has been beyond busy this week w/ work at ups.so this was the time it went up.;) Now if only I could find the rest of the ornaments for the tree....lol

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/01/fondue-night.html

Michelle — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 22:57:00 -0000

lol susanne..I did change the header picture :=)oh and I'll be over for the chocolate fountain!! summertime work for you???great

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/01/meal-plan-monday_13.html

Michelle — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 19:57:00 -0000

Hi girls thanks for visiting..I've posted the recipe on the home page

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/01/wordless-wednesday_15.html

Michelle — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:55:00 -0000

This was Tuesday at our local science place,she had such fun!!!There is a air gun that you shoot balls into the water.It didn't take her long to fiqure it out..Oh and the boats in the "lock"was lots of fun...:)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/01/meal-plan-monday_20.html

Michelle — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 12:01:00 -0000

Hi all. thanks for visiting.In answer to your question Susanne the rice is Uncle Ben's Bistro Express "whole grain medley vegetable .It takes 2 1/2 minutes in the microwave.It is delicious.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/01/wordless-wednesday-nanny-and-her-dog.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:46:00 -0000

Hi robin :=) thanks for the bloggy visit :)She was pretty tired after 3 hours with "Nanny" and doggie.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/02/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 01:05:00 -0000

Hi Diana & Susanne ;) Thanks.The rose is from the park here.I love how my camera can zoom in for a close shot..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/02/wordless-wednesday_20.html

Michelle — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 03:10:00 -0000

it was such a warm and sunny day here today :) that was great..I've just started taking her to this park & it's a big hit let me tell you!!! Happy WW.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/02/here-comes-sun.html

Michelle — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 03:24:00 -0000

thanks amy :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/02/wordless-wednesday_26.html

Michelle — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 23:50:00 -0000

my husband took these pictures at my mum & dad's on Sunday night.and yes Barbara she did have alot of Energy!!!!thanks for visiting us...;-) Candi thanks for the blog visit.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/02/wordless-wednesday_26.html

Michelle — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 14:02:00 -0000

Those are so cute! :) I really love your header pic, too. Gorgeous!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 22:08:00 -0000

We went for a" bike ride" before having dinner and getting to sleep early.It was great seeing the sun out today!!!! ;=) Happy WW

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:47:00 -0000

Love the wrinkled nose -- so cute!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:50:00 -0000

yeah really hey Tiff???? she was in a"MOOD"...gotta love the 2 1/2 year old stage!!!!!
Michelle : thanks for the comment she was grumpy there... :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/artiste-wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:56:00 -0000

I bought McKenna the new Crayola Brush Pens and they are great...paint without the big mess!!!!! Happy WW..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 11:51:00 -0000

HI Susanne .Thanks they are all tasty..have a good day..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:20:00 -0000

for the recipes you can go to the recipe box.. herehave a great day

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/blog-her.html

Michelle — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 15:54:00 -0000

I filled out the survey for you! :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/baby-love.html

Michelle — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 12:18:00 -0000

I agree Sandra why push it. I had terrible sciatic (sp) from 5 mths pregnant to today..We're going to see where we are in 6 months time wether or not we have another one...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/meal-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:20:00 -0000

Thanks Connie,Laura and Pq for your very sweet comments.. :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/show-us-your-children.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:52:00 -0000

thanks sandra ;=) you're not biased though are you my friend..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/wordless-wednesday_19.html

Michelle — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 01:13:00 -0000

hi everyone ..this was at the local mall today *tuesday*and they have a little train that runs around the mall. She loves it and so do I.mind you the stroller has to stay home...:) so she is tired afterwards..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/wordless-wednesday_25.html

Michelle — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 02:21:00 -0000

this was Saturday at the park..so lovely seeing the flowers out.if i don't get to you right away it's b/c i have the flu :( thanks for visiting.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/03/spring-time.html

Michelle — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 10:49:00 -0000

ugh....Susanne that's not right..Hope that spring is right around the corner for you.. ;=)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/04/prayer-circle.html

Michelle — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 11:17:00 -0000

Thanks Jen and Renee....

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/04/meal-plan-monday.html

Michelle — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 20:57:00 -0000

Hi Sandra...
Thanks I look forward to trying them :) have a great week...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/04/bloggy-giveaway-spring.html

Michelle — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 18:32:00 -0000

I haven't heard of this cookbook until now, but made a point to look it up on Amazon. I loved the description where it said that half of the recipes were for when you wanted to be good, and the other half for when you didn't. What an interesting premise for a cookbook. I would love to be entered in your giveaway.

Michelle
www.northofthe49.com
michelle (at) northofthe49 (dot) com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/04/bloggy-giveaway-spring.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:21:00 -0000

Sounds like a cute cookbook! I'd love to win!

Fizz
fizzledink AT gmail DOT com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/04/wordless-wednesday_22.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 02:33:00 -0000

we went to the wiggle concert on Saturday afternoon ,McKenna loved it!!! We had seats on the left side of the stage three rows away from the stage.. We spent most of the concert there (RIGHT By The Speakers..) Happy WW :-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/05/stanley-park-part-three.html

Michelle — Tue, 13 May 2008 12:55:00 -0000

never? wow Susanne.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/06/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:36:00 -0000

We were at the mall today and McKenna had a carousel ride ;-) more pictures coming...I've discovered flauntr...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/06/ugh.html

Michelle — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:14:00 -0000

thanks girls ;-)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2008/06/wordless-wednesday_17.html

Michelle — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:34:00 -0000

Our New Haircut :-) Happy ww..

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/community-life.html

Michelle — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 23:14:00 -0000

Thanks for this, Sara. We really do need eachother!

God bless you.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/peace.html

Michelle — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 18:53:00 -0000

Beautiful, Sara.

Thank you so much for this -- I know, you know, I needed this one. Acceptance is a hard place I haven't quite come to yet. It's helpful to know you have and that it will be easier once I get there.

I'm getting closer every day!

Have you heard the saying, "Let go and let God!" I think it applies. ;)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/chaos.html

Michelle — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 12:59:00 -0000

What a cutie!

I'm always thankful for the quiet in a home with three teenagers. Granted, it is much quieter than when they were little, but it can still get chaotic for time to time.

Quiet soothes me in a world of chaos.

Isn't it interesting how we each need different things in order to be fulfilled. I'm so thankful God reaches us where we are.

Love you, Sara! Have a great day!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/09/grandma-flo-holy-water-blessings.html

Michelle — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:22:00 -0000

Some of my fondest memories are of praying with my grandparents. When we would visit my grandmother in Oklahoma, I slept in the room with her. Every night before we went to sleep she would have me kneel beside her as she prayed out loud. Sometimes my legs would fall asleep, kneeling for so long.

Grandparents are such blessings. I can't wait to meet up with them again!

Love you, Sara! Have a great day and enjoy the sunrise! ;)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/multiple-personalities.html

Michelle — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:06:00 -0000

What mix is he?

My dog, Sammie, is a chihuahua/schnauzer mix and looks so much like Riley. Well, Riley is much better groomed than Sammie. Although she gets a bath once, sometimes twice a week, she is forever mucking about in the yard.

I'm so thankful for Sammie!!

Love you, Sara. :)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/my-privilege.html

Michelle — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:13:00 -0000

If I'd had an aunt like you, one who was always in my corner and available, I think I would have grown up much more secure.

What an amazing privilege and mission.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/nosey.html

Michelle — Sun, 05 Oct 2008 14:25:00 -0000

I'm glad you were able to get out if only for a bit. It's frustrating what the air can do to us. For me it's the cold, heat, and wind which encompasses every season...ugh.

You have been blessed with an adorable friend and an optimistic outlook on life. Two great blessings, indeed!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/week-in-life-part-1.html

Michelle — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 01:14:00 -0000

Your paintings are really pretty!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/week-in-life-part-2.html

Michelle — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:54:00 -0000

What a great idea. I love getting a peek into your home. What a comfortable and charming place to be.

You're loads of fun, Sara. ;)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/week-in-life-part-3.html

Michelle — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:48:00 -0000

We're too much alike!!!

Not that we eat the exact same thing, I can't have bread. But I eat the same thing for every meal, every day!

And water...love it!

It's so fun to read your writing. Thanks for making me giggle.

Have a great day, Sara!!!

Re: Week In The Life, Part 4

Michelle — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 15:23:00 -0000

I'm humbled by your attitude.

I'm not at a point of acceptance yet, I'm still hoping for something different. People tell me I shouldn't give up and I don't really think I have, but I do want to come to a place of acceptance. I do want to rejoice in what I have, not complain about what I've lost. And I need to be doing the therapy I've been taught (as she hangs her head in shame).

Thank you, Sara. I think I'll be coming back to this one lots. You have encouraged me.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/i-have-no-filter.html

Michelle — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:56:00 -0000

Oh my goodness!! How horrifying! LOL Came across your blog today and wanted to say hi!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/mascots-have-birthdays-too.html

Michelle — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 14:06:00 -0000

TOO cute!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/moments-of-surrender.html

Michelle — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:22:00 -0000

As long as we're living the process continues. You teach me so much, Sara. It's almost like having a support group, to be able to learn of struggles and understand how people with similar lives deal with it all.

Thank you for being so open and for helping me to become aware of many things.

Love you.

Re: Stepping Stones

Michelle — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 12:49:00 -0000

Sara, thank you!!!

Excellent. I needed the visual. Great way to think it through.

Thanks and I love you!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/last-minute-lunch-date.html

Michelle — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:03:00 -0000

I love my neices and nephews so much. It's great to be in their lives and have them spend time with us. My husband is everyone's favorite uncle and I'm the favorite aunt. Now that's really fun...we get all the best hugs and information. ;)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/i-got-churched.html

Michelle — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:26:00 -0000

I think I will.

Sounds like Matthew and I had a similar upbringing. We are all so very different, but finding the Lord is a wonderful common denominator to help us look past our differences and focus on Him.

Hope you're well, Sara!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/let-move-mountain.html

Michelle — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:57:00 -0000

Heavenly Father, You know exactly what the health concerns are for little Stellan. You know the intricacies of all that needs to be done. You are the God who heals, the Great Physician. You have told us we can ask anything in Your name, according to Your will, and we will receive. I ask for Your will to be done in Stellan's life, for his mom to be strengthened and All to be well. You are a great God and are able to do all things. I know this to be the truth concerning You. I ask in Your Son's name, Jesus, amen.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/all-about-comma.html

Michelle — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 19:32:00 -0000

Thank you, Sara. I needed to read this today.

We don't know, do we? Only He knows the future and the plans He has for us.

I'm asking Him for many blessings for you.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/missing-me.html

Michelle — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 11:16:05 -0000

Your words have given me much to think about this morning. I don't always "look" sick, but I sure feel it. To feel and look sick...until I read this, I thought I wouldn't mind it so much...thinking again.

Yes, at least now I do have a chance at "pretending" it isn't what it is.

I'm praying for you...more...today, Gitz.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/blog-peep-questions-round-6.html

Michelle — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 02:01:49 -0000

Yes! I can barely find the Whatchamacalit bar. Remember the Marathon bar? caramel twisted with 'chocolate' coating? that was my favorite.

So - here's a question. What childhood food (existing or not anymore) do you still crave a lot?

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/rock-and-hard-place.html

Michelle — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 00:47:49 -0000

I'm sorry for asking a trivial question...I don't feel like it's my place to ask about your disease, even though I feel you are brave for enduring and for sharing with everyone. You are definitely in my thoughts and I wish you only the best.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/08/unqualified.html

Michelle — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 23:02:20 -0000

as unqualified as any of us are to help, I feel like I should just let you know that my thoughts are with you 100%. thanks for allowing us into your world and allowing people to let you know how good you are.

Re: Jeg er så dødla distre!!!

Michelle — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 06:53:00 -0000

Jeg var under halve historien helt sikker på at du hadde lagt mobilen i vaskemaskinen, jeg ;) Så der ser du, det kunne vært så meget verre!

Re: tagget, tigget, eller tikka.

Michelle — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 11:15:00 -0000

Du Ddin luring! Siden det er deg så må jeg jo gjøre det. Hmm, hva skal jeg skrive for noe da. Ganske mye rart med meg.

Re: Min uke

Michelle — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 12:09:00 -0000

Hey :) Så morsomt å se bloggen din, også så jeg navnet mitt og allting. Skikkelig stas :) Dette var gøy, du er herved satt som favoritt på pc'en.

Takk for i går (torsdag) det var utrolig hyggelig. Må ikke la det bli så lenge til neste gang!

Her er min bloggadresse:

http://vgb.no/13025/

Hilsen Michelle

Re: Wife Confesses in Pastor's Slaying - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 15:57:00 -0000

So, "most women" do stupid things because of their emotions? Do you realize that the things you listed, girls gone wild, breast augmentation, and eating disorders, are either egged on by men or are done in order to appear desirable by, men! I'm not slagging on men here, but you come off a tad misogynistic--typical of a fundie.

I was just discussing this shooting with a co-worker of mine this morning. We both felt that the reason she shot her husband could fall under a few motivations: 1) he was cheating on her, 2) he was abusing her, 3) he was abusing one or more of his children, or 4) a combination of the above.

I'm not condoning what she did at all, I would like to think that she could have sought some help. But it does seem like there is a pattern here with so-called christians committing heinous crimes. They get so removed from rational thought due to brainwashing, that they end up losing it. Just my opinion, anyway.

Re: Former youth ministry director sentenced - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sun, 16 Apr 2006 02:55:00 -0000

Thanks for posting this story. It is just more proof that christians are no more moral than non-christians.

Even when I became an ex-christian, I still had respect for christians because I believed that they had higher morals than the average person. Now I don't see them as any better or different, just more repressed.

It's bad enough when a non-religious person molests a child, but when a "christian" does it, it's twice as sickening. One day they're admonishing their congregation about achieving a christ-like manner, and the next they're trying to hook up with a child for sex. WTF goes on in these people's brains!

Re: REPENT! - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Mon, 24 Apr 2006 15:49:00 -0000

Let's see if I can sum her up in five words or less:

Criminally insane inbred FREAK!

She would make a great case study.

Re: Sex offender sets up new church - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 27 Apr 2006 19:04:00 -0000

Whoops, the third post is from Michelle, not the bizzare combination of letters. :)

Re: Sex offender sets up new church - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sun, 30 Apr 2006 00:54:00 -0000

The prior post is Michelle's.

Re: Pastor and wife sex offenders jailed, given probation - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 11 May 2006 22:23:00 -0000

What a truly shocking and disgusting thing for these parents to have done to their own children, let alone any children.

This is why I do not believe there is such a thing as a "holy spirit." If there were, no one would have come to hear this sick freak's sermons. The all-knowing, all-powerful god via his "spirit" would have kept the christians away. If you have god's spirit living inside of you, you would have an unbelievable amount of intuition--there would be nothing you couldn't know. But yet, christians can't seem to tell the "real" pastors apart from the closet freaks.

It's too bad the kids didn't put their parents away. This is one of those rare times that I wished there were a hell--these two deserve it.

Re: Pastor and wife sex offenders jailed, given probation - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sat, 13 May 2006 01:54:00 -0000

Thanks Lorena. I'd like to know where the holy spirit was when these kids were being abused for so long. He/it couldn't nudge one of the congregation to say, "Hey, this pastor's a pervert, help those kids!" Of course christians would come up with all kids of excuses why god allowed this to happen. Pathetic.

Re: Molestation charges leveled at Trinity Christian Academy founder - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Tue, 23 May 2006 22:13:00 -0000

Just the other night I saw a repeat of a program about a Boy Scout leader who had molested many young boys who were scouts. The most heartbreaking story was about one boy who had been so psychologically damaged by the abuse that he shot and killed his parents and sister. The ironic (or maybe not so ironic) thing is that this kid's family were devout churchgoers.

Now, this boy had been abused by the scout leader for years, even up until he started going to college. Wouldn't you think that god would have somehow clued the parents into knowing what was going on? Send them some kind of sign or something, a vision, a dream, or just a frickin' voice in their head (like so many christians claim to hear).

No, none of this happened. In fact, the boy was so distraught (sp?) that he would frequently act out. The parents didn't know how to help him, so they went to the SCOUT LEADER to have him talk to their son! WTF? You think god would have went, "Uh, hello, get your son away from that freak!" These devout christian parents repeatedly made sure the molester was in their child's life (they didn't know about the abuse though--that omnipotent holy spirit must have been on vacation).

Again, like this post has demonstrated, when something really wrong is going on, god is silent. Yet, he seems to come through loud and clear to these televangelists who want your money. Or maybe child abuse is the only thing god refrains from speaking out against.

Re: Molestation charges leveled at Trinity Christian Academy founder - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 25 May 2006 15:40:00 -0000

Jaku, I totally agree with your post. I hope I didn't come off as condescending. I was only trying to let you know that Ben was being sarcastic. It worked though, 'cause didn't he sound just like a fundy! (hehe)

I look forward to reading more of your posts!

Re: Ex-minister sentenced to 10 years - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 25 May 2006 00:41:00 -0000

Exactly!

Re: Youth minister charged with sex crime - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 13:29:00 -0000

David,

The only person Ben seems to have offended is you. The rest of us get his sarcasm and wit. Some very insightful and clever people use humor as a way to expose bulls**t (as a christian, I'm sure you are not familiar with this concept). I personally do not think the pedophile in the original post deserves any kind of respect, ESPECIALLY a "christian" pedophile.

Ben, you're a funny guy!

Re: Youth pastor arrested for molestation - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Wed, 18 Oct 2006 17:23:00 -0000

O.k., so maybe this youth pastor was never a "true christian." That omniscient holy spirit failed to alert the other church members that something just wasn't right with that guy. Perhaps causing people to babble maniacally in so-called tongues is a more worthwhile activity.

Re: A scientific look at speaking in Tongues - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sat, 11 Nov 2006 09:06:00 -0000

When I was a christian, I heard tongues spoken twice and once heard an "interpretation." I was both awed and freaked out by this and took it as the absolute proof that god existed. After finding out that other cultures and religions can also speak in tongues, I am no longer amazed by this circus act. I can't think of a more useless ability than babbling inanely in a so-called foreign language in order to impress others. It also gives me the creeps.

Re: A scientific look at speaking in Tongues - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sat, 11 Nov 2006 21:59:00 -0000

By the way, the person that I heard give an interpretation is now getting a divorce from his wife and they have both become alcoholics. And I used to think these people were so holy!

Makanaka, makanaka, makanaka. Too funny!

Re: Pat Robertson prophecies 'mass killing' - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 04 Jan 2007 00:13:00 -0000

I don't know what Pat Robertson keeps in his medicine cabinet, but I think he better cut back.

I could come up with several responses to this, but one will sum it up perfectly: Fruitcake!

It's one thing for christians to say they feel their god's presence, it's another to say "god told me such-and-such." I see people in my neighborhood all the time who hear voices--the mentally ill homeless. Give it a rest, Pat.

Re: Pastor arrested for online soliciting of 14-year-old girl - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 22:56:00 -0000

A personal tragedy? It required specific intent and action to commit this crime. A tragedy is hearing about a child stricken with cancer, or someone getting killed in a head-on collision. To minimize this as some kind of mistake or tragedy in a way condones what happened.

I'd like to see those nice forgiving people read the perverted pastor's on-line chat transcript, and then film their reactions. Then it would be a comedy.

Michelle

Re: Murdering for God - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 00:49:00 -0000

These homophobic murderers fail to see the irony of their situation: They kill a gay person, only to end up spending the rest of their lives living in close quarters with only other men for company.

Hell of a way to come out of the closet.

Re: Christians declare war on those evil athiests - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 19:40:00 -0000

Am I the only one who thinks this article is tongue-in-cheek?

Re: African Christians declare war on child witches - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sat, 15 Dec 2007 14:57:00 -0000

Usually my attitude about christianity is that if you want to believe in it, fine, just don't push it on anyone else, but articles like this one are helping to convince me that christianity should be completely eliminated. How many more children have to be tortured and killed before someone reigns in the religious fanaticism and superstitious hysteria there? Do these missonaries think that spreading their message was worth even one innocent child's life? Hell no! They should get their asses back down their and clean up the mess they made.

The christian trolls are strangely silent about this topic. I guess they prefer to debate less threatening issues like semantics and faith. Just remember that while you're patting yourself on the back for putting more notches on your godbelt, a lot of children are sufferning and dying for your imaginary brownie points. Wait, it's really just all part of god's plan for their lives, right?

Re: Parents attribute daughter's death to lack of faith - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 12:28:00 -0000

You have to be a cold-hearted bastard to watch your child suffer like this and not take her to the hospital. Yeah, let's just ignore the livesaving potential around the corner at the nearest hospital and put it all in God's hand. Pray if it make you feel better, but also get that child medical attention!

This situation actually enforces the atheist's views. If there is a God, he would rather let an 11-year-old girl suffer horribly and die than lift a finger to intervene because, what, someone here is going to learn a valuable lesson? That her parents are criminally negligent retards? Or is it that there is no God, because what kind of God would be o.k. with a child's suffering and fear, realizing that her parents are letting her die right before their eyes. Not a nice send-off for her into the afterlife (if there is one), is it?

The silence from the Christian trolls on this one is deafening.

Re: Soldier sues army, saying his atheism led to threats - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 15:11:00 -0000

Well, the founding fathers also owned slaves and only allowed land-owning white males to vote. Does that mean we should continue those particular legacies also? They couldn't have been very loving Christians if they kept other humans captive against their will. I'm sure Christians have a very good explanation for this.

So Christians, do you?

Re: Luthern Minister arrested on child sex charges - ExChristian.Net - News and Opinion

Michelle — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 13:54:00 -0000

So, viewing child pornography and actually molesting a CHILD are considered "imperfections?" How nice of you to whitewash such heinous and sickening crimes! Just imagine someone doing that to your child, niece, nephew, or any child you know. Would you be so quick to dismiss it as an imperfection? Must be nice to hide behind the sin defense while the rest of us have to actually take responsibility for our actions.

Re: By popular request… A BIGGER BOAT!

Michelle — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 11:13:00 -0000

It's so nice to see them regularly snuggling. I think Phyllis definitely learned some things from Charlene!

Re: http://elephantonadiet.blogspot.com/2009/02/ckh-photoshoot-1.html

Michelle — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 18:40:54 -0000

weee! saya nito! can't wait for the next photoshoot!

Re: Finding Truth and Meaning without Christianity - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Wed, 26 Apr 2006 02:41:00 -0000

Tee hee, Anon 2! That made me laugh! That explains why my christian grandmother and aunts have that "spacey" look to them--their sanity is eroding little by little. After I deconverted years ago, and more recently stopped believing in hell, I've never felt more normal and sane.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/menu-plan-monday_20.html

Michelle — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 04:10:00 -0000

Hi Bridget!!!!Thanks for the blog visit!It was really good,We loved it.Thanks for your lovely comments on the halloween look...Have a great week...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/menu-plan-monday_20.html

Michelle — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:09:00 -0000

i'll post the recipes later at naptime ;)thanks for the visit.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/christmas-ornament-exchange.html

Michelle — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 02:23:00 -0000

Hi Kacie..

I've fixed it.Thank you for letting me know;)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/its-time-for-giveaway-thanks-to-shannon.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:58:00 -0000

Hey Rohal .do you have a blog?? or an e-mail that I can reach you if your name is drawn? Please let me know...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/its-time-for-giveaway-thanks-to-shannon.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 10:31:00 -0000

I love cookbooks, and this one sounds great. I am definitely going to have to remember to come back and try that pork chop recipe. Mmmmmm. I would love to be entered!

Michelle
www.northofthe49.com
michelle (at) northofthe49 (dot) com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/its-time-for-giveaway-thanks-to-shannon.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:51:00 -0000

WOW!!!You Ladies love a good cookbook...:) and I can't say that I blame you! lol...now onto my wish list...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/its-time-for-giveaway-thanks-to-shannon.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 23:29:00 -0000

I'm always looking for new recipes. Thanks for the opportunity! mlciavola@yahoo.com

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/wordless-wednesday_30.html

Michelle — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 12:01:00 -0000

Hi Bridget..oh thanks :) my camera gets all the action shots now.and She is a gymboree girl what can I say...

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/10/wordless-wednesday_30.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:44:00 -0000

Hi Ladies,
For the ones that are wondering,my dear McKenna didn't make the climb it's quite high and she just likes to look up and play with the ropes.. :) Happy WW.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 12:30:00 -0000

McKenna doesn't usually nap on Wednesday as we look after a friends daughter.so by 5:30 she was good and tired,if you look closely you'll see her pajamas underneath...:)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/slow-cooker-thursday.html

Michelle — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 11:36:00 -0000

Hi Bridget & Lori.
It does sound good doesn't it?I can't wait to make it!Have a great Thursday.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/menu-plan-monday_11.html

Michelle — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 02:06:00 -0000

Hi Bridget.My coffee was a extra hot venti gingerbread latte with easy whip!!! delish..Have a great week..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/gingerbread-lattes-at-home.html

Michelle — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:14:00 -0000

i love this drink *in fact off to have one today :) i will let you both know what works..thanks for visiting..off now for coffee

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/wordless-wednesday_13.html

Michelle — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:46:00 -0000

Making banana banana bread with Daddy on Sunday night..:) and yes we still have some....

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2007/11/wordless-wednesday_13.html

Michelle — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:18:00 -0000

Rob is home today and he's enjoying all the comments ;=)Happy WW.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/06/wordless-wednesday.html

Michelle — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:12:12 -0000

McKenna and I at the pre-school picnic Monday afternoon ..

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/06/wordless-wednesday-fun-with-new-friends.html

Michelle — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 01:29:12 -0000

We had another fun playdate with Amberthe girls get along really well.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/06/wordless-wednesday-pink-roses.html

Michelle — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:35:45 -0000

what a gorgeous little girl.thanks for the blog visit.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/06/wordless-wednesday-pink-roses.html

Michelle — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:48:11 -0000

Beautiful shot. Happy WW!

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/07/wordless-wednesday-mountains.html

Michelle — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 22:44:49 -0000

This was just after dinner at Legendz diner in Golden B.C. on our way to Calgary.I zoomed in and used my action /movement setting,as well I shoot in Aperture and Manual.Love how it turned out at 100 km an hour.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/08/wordless-wednesday-always-time-for.html

Michelle — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:12:21 -0000

you're both right ladies .this was during the photowalk that we went on yesterday.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/wordless-wednesday-happy-birthday-flynn.html

Michelle — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 01:42:44 -0000

This was today ,McKenna and Flynn are three months apart.I can remember when he was born.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/wordless-wednesday-george.html

Michelle — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 23:11:59 -0000

Our friends Baby George at 8 months old

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/i-love-this-oprah-with-black-eyed-peas.html

Michelle — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 05:20:41 -0000

I loved it Susanne ,I wish that I'd watched it on the t.v. but I belive Mary Poppins was on :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/sunset-tonight.html

Michelle — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 14:24:56 -0000

Hi Susanne Yes I do indeed have a sunset setting ,if you look in Menu > Sp settings you may have it too.:D .I love it.

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/owl-in-tree.html

Michelle — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 06:24:35 -0000

Hi. Thanks for the blog comment.I hope that you don't mind the comment form,Please let me know. :)

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/09/wordless-wednesday-taking-time-to-paint.html

Michelle — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:13:44 -0000

Hi everyone to leave a comment just use your google or twitter name :) Thank you for visiting !

Re: http://michellesfamilyjournal.blogspot.com/2009/10/wordless-wednesday-some-flowers.html

Michelle — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:16:10 -0000

Hi Susanne Yes the flowers are still blooming :) which is wonderful.

Re: http://www.jennifervalerie.com/2008/03/ultimate-blog-party.html

Michelle — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 15:42:00 -0000

Thanks for stopping by and look forward to browsing through your blog a bit more!

Re: A righteous anger - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Wed, 31 May 2006 17:03:00 -0000

Truthseeker,

Thanks for your post. You have summarized in a nutshell why christianity is illogical and inherently hateful. My particular pet peeves about christianity include the whole concept of hell and how we are brainwashed into believing and fearing it. Since the time my belief in hell evaporated, I have been a much happier, calmer, and saner person. I think christianity is designed to always keep its followers a little insecure about their own salvation so that they will have a guaranteed lifetime membership. We are living proof that there is life after christianity--and that life is the best its ever been.

Michelle

Re: A New Hope - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Sun, 04 Jun 2006 02:06:00 -0000

Hi Trudy,

I also felt alone after I walked away from christianity. I honestly believed that there was no such thing as an ex-christian. The only one I knew that could possibly be one was the late comedian Sam Kinison (in his youth he had been a preacher). I tried to search for information about him as a preacher, but didn't find much.

Even after I "fell away," I still believed in hell. I would just try to push it to the back of my mind whenever I thought about it. I did some serious damage to my sanity by doing that. Despite my belief in hell, there was no way I was going back to church because I HATED IT! I told myself I would rather burn than ever sit through a stifling, claustraphobic, overly-emotional church service again.

For many years I tried to deal with this schizophrenic attitude towards christianity by myself. I had no one to talk to about any of it. My christian relatives would have just told me that god was trying to call me back, and my non-christian friends wouldn't have understood because they had never been christians.

Then, several months ago, I finally got it in my head to search for "ex-christians" on the web. I first checked out one site that had dozens and dozens of testimonies about people leaving christianity. I was amazed that there were so many (as before I had thought there might only be two--me and Sam Kinison!). I read for hours and hours straight. I was no longer alone, there were others. There were ex-ministers, people who had spoken in tounges, people who had been in the church for 20-30 years, and so on. And the best part? These people went on to live happy, fulfilling lives. They didn't turn into degenerates and start glutting themselves on what christians would call "sin." They actually became happier after they left--sanity does seem to have that affect on people.

Anyway, I just wanted to say that I am glad you have finally found others who have been in your shoes. I am sure christians would like us to shut up and go away. We're proof that people walk away from christianity every day, and are better off for it.

- Michelle

Re: Guided by History - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Wed, 14 Jun 2006 10:57:00 -0000

I know how it feels. I'm 37, was in ministry for 10 years...and was brought up in an evangelical home with a father who was the pastor...The only truth I have found now that I have read through the gnositcs and other religions is...what is right here, right now...and that I don't know much else. Good luck to you on your journey.

Re: Breaking the tie that binds - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Mon, 19 Jun 2006 08:39:00 -0000

I so understand all you have written. It was funny reading and hearing my christian family in the background with all the answers even to your questions...like, well, we are all judged by what we know, so maybe he is OK...and won't go to hell??? That is so stupid! They can find an answer for everything...so they can live with their religion. It's so sad. I'm glad you got away. I got away at 32 years old...and am so thankful...it is a healing process for me...a long healing process. I'm 37...heard the same hell stories from my pastor father...yuck...and sexually abused by this pastor-father...It's all so ignorant...I'm so glad again, for your writing.

Re: Breaking the tie that binds - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Mon, 19 Jun 2006 08:42:00 -0000

I'm just so thankful for your writing. You write with passion and freedom. Good luck to you!

Re: From Depressed Christian to Happy Atheist - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Wed, 05 Jul 2006 09:23:00 -0000

Matthew, my heart goes out to you...so many of us have had similar experiences of mourning and grief after leaving...It's hard to come to grips with...especially when it has been such a part of your whole identity.A part of ego dies.

Re: From Pastor's wife to Atheist - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Sat, 05 Aug 2006 21:34:00 -0000

I want to clarify why my family has never been the same after me coming forwards about the abuse. My sister called me sick because I started writing the truth and even thought to write a book about the abuse. (my story is pretty sad). She didn't want to see the truth. I should have been more gentle and kept my thoughts to myself knowing she couldn't handle it. But, I was careless. Now, we don't have a relationship. I hope his clears up why my family is estranged...words online are only a fragment of details of the complexity of relationships.

Re: I think for myself now! - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Sat, 16 Sep 2006 13:23:00 -0000

John, thanks for sharing your story. There is nothing to make a depressed person feel worse than attempting to walk in the muck of christianity. My deconversion has been the best anti-depressant I could ever give myself. The mind is a lot more cleaned up without having to constantly wonder if you are going to hell for something stupid like having "bad thoughts."

It was very heartless of your friend to walk out on you at one of your weakest moments and then say something trite like "Jesus loves you." I see guys in the street with those signs and I just want to say to their faces "I love me and that's what's important." Then again these guys tend to look like they are one can short of a six-pack. You've got to be a little cuckoo to walk around every day with a stupid sign that everyone ignores.

That "Jesus loves you" crap works well on people who already have low self-esteem and depression. We feel no one really loves us. We start hearing about this Jesus-guy's endless love and pretty soon our needy minds start to buy into it. The enemy of jesus' love is self-love, a normal, healthy self-love. Once we stop believing we are lowly, sinning, scum-ridden mortals with a debt to jesus that we never asked for, our lives change for the better.

I'm glad for you that you survived your experience and have learned from it. Enjoy your new jesus-free life, and welcome to sanity!

Re: Schizophrenic Faith - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Tue, 26 Sep 2006 18:41:00 -0000

Hi Kristina,

Thanks for sharing your story. There were a couple of things you said that I identified with.

First, I also sufferered from depression, along with anxiety and panic attacks. I've never had the horrific hallucinations that you've had, but I suffered from extreme intrusive thoughts that the devil would possess me and turn me into a maniac. Also at times I thought that god would possess me and make me babble in tongues incoherently. It got so bad that I wanted to lay down on the highway and let a truck run over me just to end the mental torment. Fortunately I was able to hide this from my friends and family, I hate to think what they would do if they knew I was extremely close to a mental breakdown.

The other thing I experienced like you was the sublime relief of my depression and anxiety after I pushed christianity out of my life and stopped believing in hell. My head cleared and I was able to really feel normal for once in my life.

It's hard enough to deal with a traumatic childhood and a predisposition for mental issues without throwing in the fear of burning forever, invisible (or visible) spirits who want to possess you just for thinking the wrong things, christian relatives creeping you out by telling you the spooky things they've seen and heard (like my grandmother does to me), and the repression of natural human thoughts and feelings.

Reading stories like yours helps me to feel that I am not alone in what I went through. The good thing is that now you, I, and all the other ex-christians can do life on our terms, using our own minds and re-learning how to handle our struggles in a realistic and logical manner.

The interesting thing is, I've always loved Halloween as my favorite time of year, but I always felt a little guilty because of my christian background. Now I can really enjoy my monster movies because I know none of it is real, and that some "demon" is not going to possess me because I watched The Exorcist.

Re: Running afoul of GOD - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:50:00 -0000

I suppose it's hard for the OP to imagine what it like to wholeheartedly swallow all the crap I did about the terrible things that happen to people that "turn away" from the faith or commit the unpardonable sin of denying the holy spirit. When you are brainwashed you believe what you are told, and that what it amounts to.

The OP has never experienced the gut wrenching torment of the internal struggle between logic and faith. You should be glad, because it's no picnic. I wish I'd had your experience rather than 14yrs of indoctrination in xianity (yep..it's easier to write it that way!)

In many ways it was as hard as my getting out of a bad marriage. You hear about it's effects on the children, the potential loss of friends/family connections, the stigma of divorce, the shame that you could not make it work - it's somehow your fault, yet the knowledge that the relationship is untenable and is destroying you pushes you to leave.

You may never understand the fear of leaving, but as long as you recognize and respect that it's real for those going through and still dealing with the fallout that's all we ask.

Re: I ruined my parent's Christmas Day and I feel very guilty - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 02:09:00 -0000

When I see my Christian relatives, I have to mentally prepare myself for the godtalk I have to endure. I haven't come out to my family as an ex-Christian, but they would definitely classify me as a backslider, so they gently try to win me back to Jesus. I just listen patiently, nod occasionally, and smile when it's over. It's my way of keeping the peace between us. They get to walk away feeling like they earned some brownie points with god, and I walk away slightly amused and glad that nobody's feelings had to be hurt. I'm not saying my way is the right way, it's just how I've chosen to deal with it. But if they point-blank ask me if I still believe (which they haven't), I will tell them the truth, but I think they're afraid of hearing my answer.

Re: Ex-Catholic from Franciscan University - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 14:28:00 -0000

Yes, yes indeed we were lucky to get out. I've ran into a few others. I feel badly for those who are still trapped in that weird fundamentalist catholic guilty life and especially for the ones who became nuns. I've often wanted to have gatherings of escaped catholics where we could sit around and share our stories.

Re: Ex-Catholic from Franciscan University - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 22:18:00 -0000

Nina, I wish I had your mother. Mine still has not accepted my sexuality and how I no longer attend Church. I'm struggling with a similar issue around my girlfriend. I can't relate to how she feels like god is punishing her for different things or trying to teach her lessons. I get frustrated trying to talk about those things.

Raul: I now listen to anything but Christian rock. It give me the heebie jeebies. I can't say I miss the albums I burned as it was the 80's at the time. ;) And, yes, I now totally, totally enjoy a guilt free sex life. It's so natural and wonderful.

Re: Ex-Catholic from Franciscan University - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 12:42:00 -0000

Nina,

Yes, it sounds really frustrating about Jesus talking to her. I don't know if I could handle that. It is the lack of logic and just putting off stuff they don't understand onto god that drives me batty. Do you think it has something to do with lack of curiosity about the world and how it works that makes people stop questioning their beliefs?

Plus, I haven't told her that I've become an atheist, yet, as it's only happened over the past 6 months or so that I've been reading a lot about it. I've been saying they are "science books." I'm really afraid that even though she thinks I'm the best thing that ever happened to her, that atheism will be too much.

Re: Ex-Catholic from Franciscan University - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Michelle — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 18:39:00 -0000

Lemmy - The majority of them are brainwashed. It's really creepy. If you read the student newspaper, it gets even creepier.

Nina: What I am finding interesting in these posts is how many things "I don't talk about." It's been enlightening. If you want to email me - akshelby@gmail.com

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Tue, 04 Apr 2006 01:45:00 -0000

Preston, you sound very mature for such a young man, but unfortunately you also sound very misguided.

Apparently you have this deep "love" for your jesus. What worries me about this is that I feel that what you really need is love for yourself. Sometimes we can go through life looking for things outside of ourselves to fill up an emptiness. Clinging to "jesus" is a really easy way to fill up that emptiness. But by doing so we neglect to take care of our true selves. Be careful about believing that your overwhelming feelings of emotion mean that jesus is real. I myself have witnessed people filled with the so-called holy spirit--speaking in tounges and such. The first time I heard it, it freaked me out! The second time I heard it I thought that the woman beside me was trying to impress me. I believe that the mental states these people are in at the time are some kind of hypnosis, and frankly I don't think it's a very healthy state of mind.

I wonder if anyone has ever told you that it is o.k. for you to love yourself. I wish someone had told me that a long time ago.
I would urge you to spend less time obssessing over jesus, and more time getting to know Preston.

Take care of yourself.

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 22 Apr 2006 00:17:00 -0000

I deconverted several years ago, but I only came across this site a few months back after searching for "ex-christians." I never knew there were other deconverts out there--I truly believed I was the only one! Or at least the only one who didn't do a 180 and start spiraling into major "sinning," like christians think happens when someone stops believing.

I am so glad for this site and others like it. It is very affirming for me to read what others have gone through. Thank goodness for the internet! For years I just tried to put it all in the back of my mind, because I was still somewhat under the "influence," even though I knew christianity was wrong for me. At the time I felt it was still o.k. for others if it really helped them deal with life. It's funny, back then I sort of just resigned myself to the possibility of burning in hell forever, but that still couldn't make me step foot in a church again, I hated church! Especially the fake friendliness and the grossly emotional worshipping. Then about a year ago it occurred to me that the concept of hell was so ridiculous that I stopped believing in it. We're going to have new bodies? Bodies that are indestructible, but will still feel pain? Bodies with nerve endings, like what we have now? I just don't see that happening. Ever since then I've relieved myself of the guilt I was brainwashed into having for "falling away." Now, I'm amazed that I ever believed any of it. My grandmother, who has been a christian for 30+ years, sprinkles me with little sayings that start with, "The lord says" . . . and "the lord can help you" . . ." She tries to get me to believe again, yet she doesn't seem to care about any other aspect of my life. A sweet woman who could have done so much more with herself.

Sorry to have gone on so long, but I've never been able to talk about this with anyone for the last 12 years. This site has done so much for my sanity and peace of mind. I think more and more ex-christians will find this site, just like I did, and we will be able to all speak out about something "they" would rather quash--that ultimately people leave the religion because it isn't real, period.

BTW, I could only watch half of that video with the kids praying. My skin started to crawl.

Thanks for everything, Dave!

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 22 Apr 2006 12:45:00 -0000

There it is again, the "bad experiences" excuse. I said I hated going to church, but that's not because someone there did something mean or bad to me, it just felt unnatural and creepy. If you take any experience and pick it apart, you will find many small things that are negative, and you can blame the failure on any one of those small things. But actually the sum of those small things supports the main idea, that christianity is a big fat fraud.

And in order to continually believe in that fraud, christians have to self-impose a level of psychosis and suspension of reality. Christians start to get this glazed look on their faces as they age. I've seen this look on several older christian female relatives, like they're not all there mentally. They're slow to respond or laugh at humor, almost like they've lost the ability to be spontaneous. How sad, but it makes me feel good about myself, that I was able to finally find and like my true inner being--without any help from any religion.

Belief in god and adhering to religion is an excellent way to squash your personality. Not for me, thank you.

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 22 Apr 2006 18:40:00 -0000

"He turned berr into furniture at my house."

Sounds interesting! But what exactly is "berr" and why would god turn it into furniture?

Anyway, when I was a christian, I couldn't imagine ever not being one, but that was largely due to my pitiful fear of burning forever. Now that I'm not, I can't imagine ever going back. I've grown and matured so much from who I was back then. I'm finally the person I've always wanted to be. I believe in life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all; doing unto others what you would have them do unto you; and finding meaning in my own life as inspired by Viktor Frankl's book Man's Search for Meaning.

Please remember, we've been where you are now. We are not some newbies or vulnerable persons easily seduced by emotional manipulations or threats of eternal torture. We've all had plenty of time to process and expel the brainwashing we underwent. Who in their right minds would ever want to go back to that?

I do enjoy the opportunity to voice what I've held inside for so long--it helps me in my own personal evolution as a enlightened human being.

Enjoy your berr, I may even have one later--I'll see if god can turn it into a Lazyboy. :)

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 22 Apr 2006 19:28:00 -0000

Oh, I get it. I knew you meant beer--I just couldn't resist the comedy in that!

Yes, I know what you mean about those miracles. I've been able to turn guilt into high self-esteem (though not narcissistic). Works wonders for past traumas and struggles.

Congratulations on your sobriety! And I hear you on the furniture. I felt so good when I bought my wicker coffee table, despite it being second-hand. Just makes you feel more complete. :)

Re: NO TRUE CHRISTIANS! - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 19 May 2007 16:25:00 -0000

Martin,

I am glad to here that the young girl came out of her coma, and that you survived your brush with death.

Here is another perspective.

Last month my 25-year-old brother died from complications of non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. An internal bleed weakened him and put him into a coma. My grandmother, who has been a stout Christian for 30+ years prayed over him feverently, moving even an ex-christian like myself to tears. My uncle, another faithful christian, prayed over him. My uncle's church prayed for my brother. Where did all this prayer get my brother? Nothing. He died anyway.

So you see, according to your god, as long as you ask for anything in his name and believe, you will receive. Do you suppose my Christian relatives didn't pray hard enough, believe enough, or whatever? Was Jesus napping while my brother was dying?

Please explain to me, Marin, why your jesus chose to save you and the young girl but not my brother.

Michelle

Re: NO TRUE CHRISTIANS! - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Thu, 24 May 2007 18:46:00 -0000

It's too bad that god's all-knowing holy spirit that dwells within you hasn't revealed to you the answer to my question, Kls. God sure knows how to keep people on their toes. Just when you think you know the rules, they change without warning, without explanation, and we're supposed to grin and bear it.

Re: NO TRUE CHRISTIANS! - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 26 May 2007 12:24:00 -0000

Kls, I am sure you were being sarcastic about jesus being the "guilty" one. No, jesus did not kill my brother. Complications from non-alcoholic cihhrosis and negligent hospital staff did. My comment about jesus napping was facetious, since I don't believe in him. The point I was trying to make was that prayer and faith in god/jesus will not necessarily save someone's life. It's a 50/50 shot, just like every other thing in this life.

I believe I will see my brother again, but not in some biblical "heaven." Again, Kls, I'm glad you got a second chance at life. Live it to the fullest.

Re: How many people have been killed by Christians since Biblical times? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Thu, 06 Apr 2006 10:21:00 -0000

Of course, those murders happened because they catholics are not "true christians." So we can just sweep all that atrocity under the rug because, thank god, the true christians are finally here!

Well, where were you guys when all this stuff was going on? Maybe you could provide historical documentation about how the "true christians" were fighting to protect the lives of natives, pagans, witches, etc. The only religious group I'm aware of that started helping any oppressed people were the Quakers, but that was for helping African-American slaves escape to freedom. But Quakers are not true christians, so they don't count, right?

My knowledge of history is spotty, so perhaps you can provide me with contrary evidence that "christians" had been the champion of the oppressed for the last 2000 years. In my church-going days, I don't seem to recall hearing any stories about how the "true christians" stood up for anybody. Maybe they had, but the lord decided it was a better thing to allow these massacres to happen so that the catholics would look bad. ("It's all them damn catholics' fault!")

I look forward to hearing about all those true christian heroes! I'm sure there were plenty. :)

Re: A handful of Christian arguments & tactics - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Tue, 02 May 2006 01:05:00 -0000

I won't pretend to believe that I can address the bulk of your post Theotherian(?); I'll leave that the more educated ex-christians here.

But what you said at the beginning of your post, that some christians are not very smart, is very interesting.

Christians purport that once someone accepts christ into their "heart" as their personal savior, god's holy spirit enters that person. The holy spirit is essentially god, supposedly. God is said to be omniscient, supposedly. So, how is it that when someone has god's "spirit" inside of them, it doesn't make them any smarter? Wouldn't some of that mind-boggling amount of knowledge about every event that ever occured about every living (or non-living) thing rub off on its host a little bit?

I'd appreciate it if you could shed some light on this!

Re: The Atheist's Nightmare? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Wed, 03 May 2006 15:09:00 -0000

Haha Xrayman! Yes, that explains the prickly stems at the top. I sometimes nearly stab myself on those suckers. An evil fruit indeed!

Re: God…the parent with an enormous ego? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sun, 21 May 2006 12:48:00 -0000

Ian, I really liked your essay. You were able to point out how constantly "worshipping" god is ridiculous. That aspect of christianity always made my skin crawl. I agree that a real god would not need constant ego supply as if he/it were some kind of narcissist.

Christianity has set up jesus and god to be the "good cop/bad cop." The bad cop, god, is all too eager to toss us humans into enternal fire for trifling errors, so along comes good copy jesus to to say "Hey, don't worry about that guy, I'll take care of everything for you. All you need to do is become obssessed with me for the rest of your life, and we'll let you off the hook."

I also like how you pointed out how a human parent is way more compassionate towards his/her children that the biblical god. My parents may have some faults, but at least they're not jealous sadits!

It doesn't say much about god's character that most people would even feel some level of restraint for torturing Hitler than would god. That's because most humans have empathy for others. That is the ability to figuratively put oneself in another's shoes--to attempt to feel what they are feeling. How can either god or jesus empathize with us? Biblical god has always existed--so he/it has no one to answer to, and jesus was "perfect," without sin--so he never knew what it was like to make mistakes. No wonder I always felt a disconnect as a christian--there was no mutual validation and understanding between me and what I thought was the holy spirit, although there was a lot of elevated emotions, guilt, and paranoia.

Thanks again for the great post! It's another example of why christianity conflicts with logic and basic human values.

Re: It's like Cancer - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Fri, 16 Jun 2006 17:06:00 -0000

I so feel for you...I know exactly what you are talking about...I grew up in an evangelical home where my father was the minister...it is so ingrained in me...the fear, hell, and all...the nightmares, the checking to see if I am REALLY READY to meet jesus...I just left christianity in 2002...I'm 37 now. I spent 10 years in ministry with my husband...today, there is still that lerking of fear, but it comes from outside of myself now...not within...That will happen to you too...just be patient with yourself...I'm so sorry you have to go through this as so many of us have to do...It's not fair...but in suffering, we often find strength...you are an encouragement to me already!

Re: Never had a clue - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Tue, 14 Nov 2006 18:32:00 -0000

WM, you bring up an issue that has always mystified me--how come god via his holy spirit never warns his people about guys like Haggard. Now that I know there is a specific gift of discernment, I'm even more surprised that christians don't talk about this.

Most people have a fair amount of intuition and experience gut reactions to people. I think christians cut themselves off from this sense by having a one-track, god-obssessed mind. They forget how to think for themselves, therefore their perceptions become dulled. Not a good situation considering how many christians there are.

I wish Haggard would just come out of the closet and be himself. He's probably got so much invested in being a Superchristian that it will probably never happen.

Re: Instant Conversion - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 12:42:00 -0000

I tend to think this wasn't staged. Why stage something to prove that something else is false? It doesn't make sense, but that's just my opinion.

Anyway, I was totally blown away by this experiment. I think its similar to how people can be hypnotized with the power of suggestion.

I can compare it to what I experienced yesterday. I was at a funeral service, but it felt like a drawn out alter call. Emotions were running high and the pastor used this to "call people to christ," almost as if they didn't have a choice! I can see how unbelieving relatives could be emotionally manipulated by being told that the only way they could see their dearly departed would be to accept jesus. It's too bad that such a beautiful service was marred by the irritating preaching.

And isn't it strange how people feel god in their upper chest area, the same area that responds to stress, anger, anxiety, love, and happiness. How come our brains never see images of god, or how come we never hear him, we just "feel" him in our "hearts." I'm no doctor, but I bet that feeling has to do with the release of adrenalin or endorphins or dopamine, not the holy spirit.

I have been so strung out on anxiety that I literally felt I was possessed, but it was all in my mind. Our minds have incredible power to make us believe the strangest things. I think these people got caught up in the moment and mystery of the meeting, that's all.

Re: Ain't Love Grand - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 21:40:00 -0000

Great post Dagood! I remember not too long after my conversion I would go into a small room in my basement and pray so hard for god to communicate with me. I never actually heard god's voice, but I felt a sort of elated calm--most likely from the meditative quality of the praying and deep breathing. Because I never heard any voice, I thought god spoke to me through feelings. If I "felt" guilty about fooling around with my boyfriend, I thought that was god telling me I was sinning. Not once did I ever "hear" god speak to me; I just let my imagination fill in the blanks according to my current feeling.

What I realize now is that those feelings had nothing to do with god. I just happen to relate to people and situations through my intuition, or vibes. Now that I'm not a christian anymore, what would be prompting those feelings? Satan? Was it satan who told me that I had a great job interview today and I should take the job if its offered? No, just me talking to myself. That's just fine, because dealing with my own thoughts is hard enough without thinking there is someone else in there throwing in their two cents.

Your dialogue between the father and son shows how one-sided a relationship with god really is. Thanks again!

Re: Blind Man's Bluff - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Tue, 20 Feb 2007 21:35:00 -0000

**the story goes, Jesus showed up and let Thomas see. **

I never understood why Thomas got yelled at for that. When people asked if Jesus was the Messiah, he said to keep looking at his works and the miracles, and if you didn't believe what he was saying, you at least had the proof in the healings and such.

And the healings had Old Testament support.

But the Resurrection? Of course people were going to doubt that until they had concrete proof. It hadn't happened before, and that was so outside the realm of what they had dealt with before.

However, I do like Elaine Pagels theory that it was written in there by the writer to counteract the Gospel of Thomas.

Re: Following God’s example? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sun, 04 Mar 2007 16:53:00 -0000

**Since there is nothing in the bible saying it is either flat or spherical my contention is that the bible was not wrong but that man’s interpretation of it was."**

Neo -- the entire first chapter of Genesis was written with the belief that the earth was flat. There are quotes about the four pillars of earth, of God stretching out the heavens, and of their being corners of the Earth. Hell was perceived to be directly below the surface, and Heaven directly above -- hence Jesus ascending upward, while so many others said that they would descend to 'Sheol.' The entire reason why there are only four Gospels is because it was said, "Just as there are four corners of the EArth and four pillars of the Earth, so there are four gospels."

** Now, if you were the creator of all life and your creations scoffed at your works (and your son) wouldn’t you be just a bit ticked off at them? ** No. Because I'd be all-knowing, and I'd understand that so many people are repelled by the behavior of those who act in Jesus's name by rushing to condemn sin, and not lifting a finger to help the poor. Or those who kill in Jesus's name. I'd understand that many study science and can't make it compatible with the Bible. I'd understand that many would see God's actions in the Old Testament as barbaric.

If my three year old child hates me because I won't let him play on the highway, I don't get mad at him. I understand that my child lacks the understanding as to why it's dangerous to play on the highway.

Re: Following God’s example? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 15:28:00 -0000

**The bible does not say that the world is flat. It uses expressive terminology which was used at the time of the Genesis writings to emphasize important elements.** So all the quotes about the ends of the earth, the pillars of the earth, the corners of the earth were just expressive terminology. The flaw there is that every writer who used that terminology meant it literally. Same with heaven and hell -- they 'knew' that hell was literally below them, and heaven literally above, and that is how the BIble is written --to express the idea that the earth was flat, heaven's above, and hell is below. -- and the pillars notion was used as justification to select only four Gospels. And if you're going to argue that God didn't say that the earth was flat, then you have writers inserting their own ideas into the Bible, because they didn't mean it in any other way. And if you're going that route, then you're opening the door to questioning exactly what God said in the entire Bible.

**God gives us many chances to recognize what He is trying to teach us, but at some point we become adults and we become responsible for our choices. ** But even to an infinite, all-knowing being, an adult human would come across as a child. You're assuming that God views human children and human adults as you do.

**after the child becomes an adult and its choices continue to disrupt the lives of those in the community the parents have no choice but to let the community resolve the problem** Our choices cannot 'disrupt' God's life. If that were true, we'd have power over God.

**This is strong evidence that God not only had informed us that He is here and who He is, it provides evidence that Jesus truly is the prophesied Christ of the Jews.** Have you ever examined the reasons why Judaism doesn't accept Jesus as the Messiah? Because they list prophecies that he didn't fufill, and should have if the Messiah. And half of the 'prophecies' he did fufill don't really qualify as prophecies.

**People who believe that God is watching what they do are motivated not to steal, commit crimes, lie, cheat, or murder without the threat of legal prosecution** What you're arguing is that people don't do those things *not* because it's the wrong thing to do, but because God is watching. There's no genuine desire to simply be a good person -- it's just a matter of fear keeping one in check.

Re: Christians don't really think for themselves, despite what they say - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:30:00 -0000

Bill J,
Great article. It rang true for me as a very recent de-convert from being a right wing, evangelical xian. I'm having to re-learn how to think for myself, to think rationally and logically without having to filter my thought through the screen of faith. For 14yrs I was taught: "don't doubt" "don't question", "the natural mind is enmity against god"...blind obedience and faith was all that mattered. I alienated many friends with my zeal for god and my superiority in believing I had the truth and lived it - much like anonymous.

Now I know that religion is man made... all of it, based on the myths and beliefs of ancient peoples. I consider myself agnostic now, but the more I read posts by people like anonymous and computer, the more it pushes me towards complete atheism. So keep it up... You're just solidifying my position!

Michie S

Re: What was I thinking? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 12:40:00 -0000

holy ghost:

LOL..that was the best laugh I've had on the forum since I joined. BOOOOO...

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/feels-like-yesterday.html

Michelle — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 15:09:45 -0000

Kim,
I know that as tomorrow approaches there are a million thoughts running through your mind. I also know how important that last picture of you and Emma is that you posted, and I love seeing it every time you show it. It's amazing how that sweet little girl impacted so many of us on August 23, 2003. I'm always here for you.

Michelle

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/unexpected-beauty.html

Michelle — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:57:12 -0000

I love you, Kim. I'm always here for you.

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/09/she-is-just-too-cute.html

Michelle — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:40:44 -0000

It really doesn't seem possible, Kim. It has gone by so quickly. She is so cute, and I loved watching the video.

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/09/my-talented-little-girls.html

Michelle — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:31:33 -0000

Those are great, Kim. Thanks for sharing.

Re: http://siditty.blogspot.com/2009/07/i-thank-bet.html

Michelle — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 10:56:25 -0000

I totally agree with you, Siditty. I haven't watched BET in about 10 to 15 years. I loved Video Soul with Donnie Simpson and Video Vibrations. Many times I would buy someone's album because I saw the video on Video Vibrations. I saw the writing on the wall when the rappers started taking over the channel. It is a shame!! I turned to watch BET for the BET awards to see the tribute to Michael Jackson. I should have known it wasn't going to be what I thought it was. I think the worst part of the awards was when Lil' Wayne had those poor girls on stage dancing to that trash he called a song. It was terrible!!

Re: http://siditty.blogspot.com/2009/09/frank-discussion-with-white-person.html

Michelle — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:20:46 -0000

Why would you post someones E-mail on your blog?

Re: http://siditty.blogspot.com/2009/09/dear-old-white-man.html

Michelle — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:15:34 -0000

Siditty,

That is so very true!! What you spoke is my mantra. I live in a conservative town in Florida and I am pretty much convinced that a large majority of the white men who live in my town feel this way. I should just fall to my knees because they looked my way and smiled or opened a door for me. Yet they say nothing. But as I continue to date, every once in a while, I'll meet a guy who doesn't give a damn that I'm black and actually thinks I'm cute and smart.

Re: http://www.mybeautifulday.net/2009/06/prayer-requests-abound.html

Michelle — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:25:07 -0000

Sending prayers your way!

Re: A book we don’t need…

Michelle — Sat, 01 Jan 2005 05:37:23 -0000

Happy New Year! Many wishes for a blessed, healthy, and successful 2005!

Aloha,

Michelle

Re: Pan’s Labyrinth vs. David Bowie’s Labyrinth

Michelle — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 15:23:00 -0000

yeah i noticed the similarities as well, it's kind of annoying that they had to go and ruin it though. Quite frankly, I'd choose David Bowie over Pan's Labyrinth any day.

Re: Euro 2008 Introduction and Final Rosters for Portugal, Croatia, Spain, and Sweden

Michelle — Mon, 19 May 2008 05:42:47 -0000

What a strong squad Spain has! Surely Spain will win Euro 2008! But what a country really need is a STAR TEAM not A TEAM OF STARS! Portugal looks more and more like a star team but who knows. Without Luis Figo.. But there's Cristiano!

Re: Chris, the Kingdom, and Jim Wallis

Michelle — Thu, 14 Apr 2005 19:21:22 -0000

Dear Mark,

I am not trying to be attacking or anything, but could you force a man to do any ministry that he didn't want to do? I thought that all of the decisions in your church were made by the entire congregation, or is there some kind of committee?
Lastly, I just want to let you know that I have the utmost respect for what you are accomplishing. But I'd imagine Seminarians would be intimidating to most and it would be hard to lead in the presance of them. I think the right gal is out there but maybe she needs to be looked for.

Re: Chris, the Kingdom, and Jim Wallis

Michelle — Fri, 15 Apr 2005 00:03:58 -0000

Mark,

I have 100% faith that every women in your congregation will have eaqual opportunities. I was just wondering, but must have come across as accussing. Thank you for taking the time to address and respond.

Re: Article in Quodlibet Journal

Michelle — Fri, 15 Apr 2005 21:54:34 -0000

Mark,

Is it alright if I link your blog?

Re: A Call for Conversational Analysis

Michelle — Sun, 24 Apr 2005 11:30:37 -0000

In psychology class they will teach you that a woman who stays in an abusive relationship will remain because in her mind the benifits out way the consequences of changing.
When people hang onto ideas or concepts that are detrimental to them its usually because it serves some purpose in their life.
My friend has a crissis of faith every other month, and changes chruches about every 6 months. Personally I think its for the attention it gets her. Christians will flock to those in crissis.
Attack the badge. Don't be impressed. Perhaps ask "What are you getting out of being disatisfied with every church? Or not accepting an invitation."

Re: A Call for Conversational Analysis

Michelle — Sun, 24 Apr 2005 13:16:32 -0000

P.S.

Just read bad day. Hope Amy is still healing well. How is she?

Re: Good Job CT

Michelle — Fri, 29 Apr 2005 14:21:11 -0000

Yes, but I still think that motivation plays a factor. Churches should have been built with the intention to glorify God. I mean we would know better than to make something towering to glorify God, because of bable.
I'm going to "The Kingdom" thats my pet name for willow creek, because my first visit overwhelmed me. I mean they have their own meditation ponds and parks. Yikes. Its for a bachlorett party.
Anyway I'm going to blog about this, but when I first talked to Chris about home churches my inital thought was: If all the chruch duties were "consolidated" into one role that person should be paid for what they are doing (ie. a pastor). Consolidated is a very business term. I can't believe how much I related church to business until now. I think the analogy is easier than defining or performing chruch. Sometimes we will take complex things and relate them poorly. Like my students always relate physical intimacy to scoring. Sports is easier to relate than the intricate nature of human relations. My suspiscion is growing that to accept the church model presented in the home chruch it might have to come by a sort of revelation.
Alright I'm going I hate long posts.
P.S. though having even small group at my home is really challenging, so Its difficult to imagine performing even more church functions there.

Re: Good Job CT

Michelle — Mon, 02 May 2005 14:46:07 -0000

When my mother in law found out that Kel and I were getting married outside she asked "Don't you want Christ presant?"
Initally I was ofened, but then I just said "Um yeah.. He made the guest list."

Re: Pentecostalism and the Disconnect

Michelle — Mon, 09 May 2005 14:47:09 -0000

Forgive me if this a completely ingnorant question. But in campus crusade people were asked not to speak in tounges during large group prayer times and to reserve that gift for private prayer. So how come its so controlable? I mean if people can refrain in one instance and be overcome in another. Well it just seems like if its Spirit lead it could just happen any time any where. Because if we strive for the Spirit to be incontrol more often than ourselves well how can crusade even ask somone as a courtisie to "keep it in the closet" for lack of a better way to put it?

Re: Pentecostalism and the Disconnect

Michelle — Tue, 10 May 2005 23:14:44 -0000

I'm not sure if your asking me for biblical support for private praying in toungues. I don't have any. I was just wondering why a person who seems to have been given this gift can supress it in some settings and participate in others if its spirit directed. I'm only basing this idea on my experiences with crusade and their polite request that people don't pray in this manner openly.
Is no one answering my question because its hard to answer in a post?

Re: Pentecostalism and the Disconnect

Michelle — Sat, 14 May 2005 11:54:14 -0000

Is there any way we could sort of "police" abuse of the gift. Maybe if there were some kind of agreed upon safe gards peole would be less garded about it.
How have these other nations been able to rise above falling into the misuse of tounges?
I think it would be easier to persuade individuals to shed their baggage if safe gards were in place.
This whole post has made me realize that I wouldn't like to be blessed with speaking in tounges, nor would I be very jazzed about it if I already could. And I need to do some serious thinking about why I feel this way.

Re: Wisconsin, the Crash and the Church

Michelle — Tue, 31 May 2005 08:01:06 -0000

I was not saying that race and poverty are not closely related. However not to say this applies across the board, but I've seen it happen on more than one occasion where:
People who worked hared to achieve upper middle class status they have African American friends who have achieved the same level of wealth as they have. But would not make friends with the same raced individuals of our small group. Because they don't have any money and they can't enjoy the same past times as themselves.
I am not intrested in a chicken or the egg arrgument with you Mr. Lordge. (Does race contribute to class or vice versa.) But for me I have to pray against the affects of classist attitudes for them, and I think that money if very succesful at countering the Kingdom of Christ on many levels.

Re: The Passion of the Batman, part 3

Michelle — Thu, 09 Jun 2005 23:25:38 -0000

Did they make two face and joker look older too?
Was the joker not participating in crime when the sons of batman killed him?
Who killed bruce waynes parents if it wasn't the joker?
Do the sons of batman paint their faces in a similar manner to the crow?
Mark this is even better than I expected, so thanks a lot.

Re: The Passion of the Batman, part 4

Michelle — Fri, 10 Jun 2005 16:13:05 -0000

so then what role is superman playing in all this?

Re: The Passion of the Batman, part 6

Michelle — Wed, 15 Jun 2005 08:02:20 -0000

Do you think we will see more of this reframing of superheros, because christian pop culutre has become a major marketing vein? Thus creating Jesus junk. (ie. testamints or $12. beaded bible bookmarks)
I remeber one critique shaming Mel Gibsen claiming that he was manipulating Chirstians into helping make his film a success.
People also make the assumption that Christians got our President relected, so we are becoming a more important sub culture with power and infulence and money.
I feel there are most certainly individuals who are actively trying to tap into the Christian market and lure dollars away from missions and the chruch.

Re: Quick Question about Missional Education

Michelle — Tue, 21 Jun 2005 19:46:59 -0000

Our chruch has the lead program which is a link up courses from Lincoln Christian college in Ill. All of presant chruch staff has earned their degree from Lincoln, and this makes me a little uncomfortable.
I think its good to outsource your traning. It can help with fresh perspective, and prevent a dominance in leadership ideals. I get a little nervous when everyone is coming from the same training background.

Re: The selected friends have been deleted.

Michelle — Mon, 11 Jul 2005 18:47:31 -0000

Sometimes you try to use the technology without the assistance of your all knowing husband and then people get erased.
I tried to group blogger under headings like you, but failed miserably. Now am at Kel's mercy to help, but I haven't been home much to sit down and learn. I wish I could put disclaimers on them the way Chris has it set up.

Re: Church Planting and Church Revitalization

Michelle — Wed, 20 Jul 2005 13:38:08 -0000

The new pic makes you look like Tom Hanks.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/10/trick-or-treat.html

Michelle — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 08:18:00 -0000

Hee hee ho ho...that is hilarious!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/be-intentional.html

Michelle — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:53:00 -0000

Sara, I love you.

You are a blessing in my life and I KNOW it was intentional, from the Father to me (through Tam).

Thank you.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/something-to-ponder.html

Michelle — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:03:00 -0000

Thank you for this.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/prove-it.html

Michelle — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:01:00 -0000

Thanks, Sara. I just had this experience of writing last night. Although I didn't do what I usually do, which is to digest the information and then set it aside to write...I got too wordy...too tired to change it...posted anyway...hopefully the Lord will still use it.

I love the way you write. You truly have a gift!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/my-soapbox.html

Michelle — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 10:15:00 -0000

Ummm...I'm going to take this as prodding from the Holy Spirit to call that doctor everyone says can help. After 14 years I've almost given up. One friend wants me to go to Mayo Clinic. How in the world does that happen without a referral?

Ok...thanks for the soapbox. I hear you. I'll call.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/living-until.html

Michelle — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 10:25:00 -0000

You spoke to my very issue. I'm perpetually thinking about the next season, wondering if I'll feel better. Thunderstorms and migraines -- UGH! I know what you mean.

Living in the moment -- Learning to be content.

Praying for you.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/lemonade.html

Michelle — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:55:00 -0000

Oh, I hope He's pleased. Some days I'm certainly more sour than others. :(

I had this same phrase (If life gives you lemons...) going through my mind last night, wondering if I should blog about it. I like your twist on the thought.

Thanks, Sara!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/canvas-for-christmas-day-1.html

Michelle — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:24:00 -0000

I think I was 12 the year I received my most memorable gift.

I needed to be cool. I really needed to be cool. I didn't know any of the latest songs that were playing on the radio, which had recently been revealed to my whole class...by my best friend.

It was mortifying.

Thankfully, Mom and Dad understood the humiliation and complied.

I got a clock radio that year. I had it many years, always by my bedside. My husband finally convinced me we needed something that didn't look so ancient...so used.

He was right. And it had done its job for me. I can sing ANY song from the 70's.

Just don't ask me about U2. Who's Bono?

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/canvas-for-christmas-day-5.html

Michelle — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 11:28:00 -0000

When my son was young he decided he wanted some entertainment for Christmas but couldn't figure out how to get all of us "stick in the mud" adults to join in. We were too interested in dessert and coffee to stop for a show.

Finally he came up with the idea to draw talents. Instead of drawing names, he put different talents on a piece of paper -- draw a picture, sing a song, write a poem... At Thanksgiving we were to draw our talent and then present it at the annual Christmas Peformance. It was spectacular!

My dad is an artist, but he had to write a poem. My brother-in-law is an engineer but he had to draw a picture. It made for some delightful memories and some of the most creative presentations, for you see, we're all performers at heart and we could not imagine getting in front of each other without having our "talent" honed.

It lasted about four years. Our motivator became a teenager and didn't really want to participate anymore. It's too bad no one else to the reins, but we still do laugh about it...LOTS!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/i-hear-it-your-birthday.html

Michelle — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 21:11:00 -0000

I love this, Gitz!

What a great role model for you. My mom has always been a go-getter and capable of any task she finds in front of her. It's good to have those models to help us know, we can do this thing called life.

Happy Birthday to Mama Gitz!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/emmanuel-god-with-us.html

Michelle — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:08:00 -0000

Beautiful!!

I've never heard that song before. Totally new to me. It's always good to hear new Christmas songs.

Sara, your voice is soothing to hear. You have a resonance that's deep and rich. I'm really surprised you never studied music.

I think I'll go listen again.

Thanks for sharing.

Merry Christmas!!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/blessings-in-stable.html

Michelle — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 12:19:00 -0000

Our Christmas was less than perfect but still wonderfully improved from the past two years. I would have liked to have been able to help out more, but each bit of effort wore me down. Thankfully, my husband and daughter have paid close enough attention over the years to know how to take the reins.

I can see the blessing in the hay this year. I dug hard the past two years...it's getting easier to find. That's a blessing in itself.

Love you, Gitz! I'm saying a prayer for you and your family.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/new-camera-old-model.html

Michelle — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 19:54:00 -0000

Adorable model. Wish you were closer to Dallas, I'd bring my puppies to you for portraits.

What a thoughtful, generous gift!!

Love you, friend.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/job-of-blog-mascot-has-gone-to-his-head.html

Michelle — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 20:22:00 -0000

Amazing dog!

I believe you are not exaggerating. That dog is a wonder!

Happy New Year, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-will-hold-you.html

Michelle — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 23:38:00 -0000

I don't make resoolutions for the very same reasons you gave. Just doesn't work for me.

The one word focus...I think I can manage.

Give

That's it. Thanks for the challenge.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/mental.html

Michelle — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:23:00 -0000

I'll take one!!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/it-not-about-me.html

Michelle — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:05:00 -0000

Truer words are rarely ever spoken. You've hit the nail on the head...again!

I think John Piper says (I think it's him), "We're not the point."

Amen. It's about Him.

Thanks, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/little-curl.html

Michelle — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:28:00 -0000

BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

I skimmed quickly to see if this was an old picture, since you've been so careful not to show us any recent ones. YOU ARE GORGEOUS!!!

Love the curls!!! You have the hair I always dreamed of having.

You're stunning, Gitz, truly stunning! INSIDE and OUT!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/i-succumbed.html

Michelle — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 01:19:00 -0000

Facebook = major time suck! But too much fun!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/spiritual-gifts.html

Michelle — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 13:34:00 -0000

Though He slay me, yet I will trust in Him. ~Job

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/flashback-friday-real-live-doll.html

Michelle — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 13:29:00 -0000

I'm the spinner! My brother is ten years younger...Oh, the joy!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/compassion.html

Michelle — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 13:44:00 -0000

Such a rewarding ministry for all involved.

We sponsor three children through World Vision, another Christian-based organization. Lorena in Peru, Irish in the Philippines, and Sandile in South Africa.

It's also great to give from their Christmas catalogue, water, sheep, medical packets...you name it, it's there.

Very cool, Sara. You'll love this!

Re: No Pain, No Gain

Michelle — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 11:47:00 -0000

You are an open book. You just can't seem to help it. We'll hear lots more stories from you, I'm sure of it, and am thrilled at the thought.

Tam's post on rating blogs...inspirational...that's what does it for me. You are inspirational.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/01/forming-habits.html

Michelle — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 08:40:00 -0000

I know you love music...what's some of your favorite stuff? i rely on music suggestions to fill my computer with tunes!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/amazing-grace.html

Michelle — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 12:16:00 -0000

Beautiful.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/easily-embarrassed.html

Michelle — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 12:09:00 -0000

I'm a dork so some things just come with the territory. I agree, you get used to it.

But, come on, tell me Gitz, if you had tucked the back of your skirt into your pantyhose and had no clue until you'd walked into a conference room of over 300 people, late...took your seat at the front table, went to smooth your skirt as you sat and felt nothing but underwear...

I mooned the whole conference of brand new teachers waiting for the Superintendent to speak. My only recourse, it was pre-baby days so at least my butt wasn't sagging...yet!

Now, tell me...wouldn't that embarrass even you?

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/twins.html

Michelle — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 07:47:00 -0000

even though we both got sick, hanging with my little nephew in the park and pizzeria was a joy!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/hdg-licence-to-let-go.html

Michelle — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 02:46:00 -0000

Tonight I let go of control a little and asked for help...I tried not to admit it, but I let myself be taken care of and let myself be loved during a tough time. I don't feel so alone anymore and I feel terribly lucky.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/hopelessly-devoted.html

Michelle — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:26:00 -0000

I'm feeling the same way with the word I chose...give.

It can affect so many areas I didn't even come close to imagining! But the challenge has been a good one.

As for physical therapy...YIKES!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/hdg-can-i-borrow-scissors.html

Michelle — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 20:06:00 -0000

Today I savored the time I spent with just me and my mom. So many people my age dont take time to step back a realize what a gift their parents are...and one day it's gonna be too late. So I make sure to savor every moment I can, and believe me I wouldn't take a single moment back for anything.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/02/hdg-being-reduced.html

Michelle — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 19:12:00 -0000

How do you keep your dogs coat so white? Especially around his eyes?????? So beautiful!!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/03/i-should-not-be-your-lenten-role-model.html

Michelle — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:32:00 -0000

I love me some colonel's chicken! :*

Recent blog post: Online Church?

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/03/hey-yall-throw-me-ball.html

Michelle — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 11:58:00 -0000

And rightly so. ;)

Recent blog post: I Am a Beggar

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/04/never-say-never.html

Michelle — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 13:06:00 -0000

I've recently been told I need to use a cane for my balance issues. Hmmm...never say never?

=-X

Thanks for this...AGAIN!!

It seems life is on a constant learning curve. Sometimes the curves are much sharper than I'm prepared to take. I'm so thankful God's doing the driving. I'd crash!

Love you, Gitz!! ;)

Recent blog post: The Dungeon of Bitterness

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/04/hdg-be-church.html

Michelle — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 12:02:00 -0000

I don't feel I have much to give these days. At one time I felt vital to the church community, but now I'm aware of the pride that went alongwith such a feeling. Now that I'm not able to "do" as much, I sometimes feel I'm not important to the church anymore. Then God reminds me: I am the church. I am part of the body. Probably just an eyelash at this point in time, or a more descript picture, a freckle.

I'll take it.

At least I'm still His. ;)

Recent blog post: A Moment With God

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/05/pedaling-piano.html

Michelle — Mon, 11 May 2009 14:13:00 -0000

What fun!

My son can play that song...for reals!

I still think you should learn to play. There's nothing like sitting at the piano and having music flow from your fingertips. It's a great pasttime, when the fingers work, I must add.

Hope you're well.

Recent blog post: Dust in the Wind

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/05/insidious.html

Michelle — Mon, 18 May 2009 17:49:00 -0000

I will pray for Pat and his family. Prayers of peace, strength and hope. Cancer is ugly...our Savior is beauty. I believe in the power of prayer and miracles.

Peace~
*~Michelle~*

Recent blog post: Stand Tall

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/05/spring-awakening.html

Michelle — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:51:00 -0000

When I saw the first pics I wondered how I could get there to help perk things up. I'm so thankful you have such great parents!!

You are a blessed woman. ;)

Recent blog post: God is My Decorator?!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/05/his-plans.html

Michelle — Wed, 27 May 2009 08:41:57 -0000

This verse rings so true... I've struggled with my path vs His path a lot the past 12 years while my husband and I tried to have children. His path was very different from mine but it's been awesome. I'm so thankful for His path.

Great blog. Love your work.

Re: HDG: Attitude of Joy

Michelle — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:00:30 -0000

Those 2 words say a lot. Our lives are what we choose. Choosing Joy is an awesome thing. Hope you do better and continually praying for you.

Love the blog.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/06/sting-of-words.html

Michelle — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:34:12 -0000

I think I've met this sister. Unfortunately, she can come in many shapes and sizes and can even be related. :'(

It can feel awful to be misunderstood and worse...to misunderstand. If anything, my illness and others' responses to me, have definitely taught me to give the benefit of the doubt.

We never know what is happening in another's life.

I'm sorry this happened to you, but it is good to get the lesson learned. He truly does make all things work together for good...even those terrible distasteful moments we wish we could erase.

Love you, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/06/great-minds.html

Michelle — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:23:17 -0000

Your godson is adorable and obviously gifted...but...that dog! I can't believe he's actually smirking. :-D

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/06/hit-and-miss.html

Michelle — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 10:25:42 -0000

As I "gloss" for Alece (my prompter to pray) I'll add extra for you! ;)

Love you.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/06/it-just-is-what-it-is.html

Michelle — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 17:52:02 -0000

Hello - I know you don't know me but your blog is inspirational as well as entertaining. I know things are difficult and I admire your courage and clarity. My thoughts are with you. Take good care.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/brought-to-you-by-letter-d.html

Michelle — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:10:02 -0000

Nice! I like this idea.

As for E....how about Eggs? Or Excellent!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/brought-to-you-by-letter-d.html

Michelle — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 18:11:07 -0000

When you have the Energy for pics it would Excellent to Enjoy them with Eachother!

Just Elaborating... ;)

Recent blog:=- A Taste of Heaven

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/123456-7809.html

Michelle — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 11:17:00 -0000

Numbers...words...whatever you've got, I'll take it!

Love you, Gitz! Praying...

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2009/07/oh-that-dog.html

Michelle — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:04:38 -0000

I'm so sorry! I know you love your little mutt (well, actually, he's a pure bred, right?) but I think more than a swear word would have escaped my being!!

>:o

:-[

Thinking of you this morning and praying for you.

Love you, Gitz!

Re: HELL IS FREEZING OVER - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 02:46:00 -0000

Why do some Christians think that ex-Christians automatically jumped into another belief system after leaving Christianity? It's as if they think we were so insecure that we needed something to take its place.

I have beliefs about a lot of things; I believe caffeine is bad for me, I believe watching too much T.V. makes me lazy, etc. But I don't feel the need to grab hold of a thought and "believe" it, I can ponder it, wonder about it, dream about it, get ideas about it, and fantasize about it. That includes all things spiritual.

Christians are so obssessed with constantly reaffirming their beliefs that they think the rest of us are just as obssessed with our "beliefs." For instance, I believe in the possibility of some kind of afterlife, but I don't walk around all day telling myself "I believe in life after death, I believe in life after death."

Christians have to constantly remind themselves of their beliefs, and the rest of us file ours away in our brains and move on.

Re: Thinking of the god delusion - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 13:33:00 -0000

One of my co-workers is a christian who sits behind me. I am a captive audience when she starts telling me how it was God who made the people at Starbucks give her a free latte, or how God saved her a seat at some eatery for lunch. I let her spew this crap unhindered, yet she got really defensive and angry one time when another co-worker asked her a few challenging questions about her faith, accusing him of trying to hurt her faith. Gee, as if the holy spirit is that much of a coward to flee in the face of honest inquiry. Pretty sad.

We are supposed to sit there and take it with a smile when a christian talks about their faith and their ridiculous ideas about God, but when someone else prods them, they get touchy and turn it around on us. Their faith is built on a crumbly house of cards, that's why they have to work so hard every day to remind themselves to keep believing. And when someone "dares" to ask them too many questions--in a row--about obvious contradictions, they start feeling the cracks in the foundation and get scared and lash out. I've seen it here, I've seen it in my daily life, and I've done it myself when I was a christian maybe I wasn't as psychotic as some, but I did feel anxious when someone would not just go along with what I believed.

If you have real faith, or belief in something, it shouldn't matter what anyone else says, you should have clear, solid answers ready to make a good case for yourself, especially if you are a christian that initiates conversations about god.

Re: A few observations from an ex-Christian atheist - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 13:15:00 -0000

Notabarbie, I got mad over the very same thing. My Christian co-worker told me that God saved her a seat at a busy restaurant during lunch. Yet, when several of my Christian relatives and a whole church prayed for my brother in the hospital, it didn't do any good. He still died, but God made sure that my co-worker wouldn't have to wait 10 extra minutes to eat her lunch. How fucking stupid is that?

Re: Screaming farting preacher and the Mrs. - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 18:31:00 -0000

Haha! Hilarious! I wish these guys were on in my area, the ones I watch just aren't funny like them. Just what does "bo-ko-sha" mean anyway? Cuckoo, cuckoo!

Re: Teflon Deity - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Michelle — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 02:16:00 -0000

Hi Gerald,

I'm going to let you in on something:

We. All. Have. Read. The. Bible. Before. Including. The. Gospel. John.

Some of us are ex-pastors and ex-ministers as well as EX-CHRISTIANS.

Many of us have either spoken in tongues or witnesses it in person. You can only hear someone babble "Shambala, roshambo" so many times before it gets boring.

We've been there, done that, seen it, heard it, blah blah blah. We moved on with our lives. Maybe you will too one day. One can only hope.

Re: Thanksgiving Tug of War

Michelle — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 21:08:00 -0000

I have heard about the soup thing at Thanksgiving and I am soooo for that if we ever host! Great idea!

Re: What fun!

Michelle — Sat, 28 Oct 2006 19:26:00 -0000

Lve the look of your boog girl! Your contest is great!! thanks for letting me particiapte!!

Re: http://millerhq.blogspot.com/2009/05/my-best-photo-ever-contest.html

Michelle — Mon, 18 May 2009 11:29:00 -0000

wonderful shot!

Re: http://ourlifewiththeprincess.blogspot.com/2009/10/gifts-from-grandma.html

Michelle — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:40:56 -0000

YAY! You changed it! I just thought you didn't want comments! :)

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/08/life-and-death.html

Michelle — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 21:26:45 -0000

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/09/he-gives-and-he-takes-away.html

Michelle — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 17:45:36 -0000

Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful son and your beautiful faith with us. I'm so sorry for your loss, but I hope I handle it with the grace and increased faith that you have.

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/09/im-expanding.html

Michelle — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 22:58:35 -0000

Keep seeking His face and He will mold your desires. Praying for you.

Re: http://jbemom.blogspot.com/2009/10/need-prayers.html

Michelle — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 17:39:05 -0000

Hey Sharon, what a neat idea!

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2008/08/laying-lisa-lace.html

Michelle — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 14:13:00 -0000

So gorgeous! You have so much talent!

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2009/06/in-my-dreams.html

Michelle — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 22:42:45 -0000

She looks like Gemma Ward. Beautiful.

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2009/06/yesterdays-airplane-drawing.html

Michelle — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 16:52:44 -0000

It's beautiful
I wish I could draw like that.

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2009/06/bjork.html

Michelle — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:52:14 -0000

love the colors, and the drawing and bjork
it's a great drawing but there is something there thar doesn't look like her; maybe the bone structure that in the drawing is really sharp.

Love all of your work!

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2009/07/dream-walking-society.html

Michelle — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 21:31:15 -0000

Wow I love it! It has beautiful colors.
I live in Argentina and here is freezing. I am not really liking the weather either, haha.

Re: http://www.mybeautifulday.net/2009/06/prayer-requests-abound.html

Michelle — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:25:07 -0000

Sending prayers your way!

Re: http://www.offendedblogger.com/2008/01/its-birthmark-dammit-offensive.html

Michelle — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 21:19:00 -0000

I had a great time reading this... great post and great blog! :)

Re: http://www.offendedblogger.com/2008/01/oh-bloody-hell-offensive.html

Michelle — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 12:16:00 -0000

Mine spent a great deal of money to get his 'cave'...

Another awesome post....:) I should link to them as therapy!

Re: http://www.offendedblogger.com/2008/01/guess-my-offense-offensive.html

Michelle — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:06:00 -0000

#3 - That $100 would have been worth a try at 13....
I'd be so offended! ;)

Re: http://www.offendedblogger.com/2008/08/idahos-1st-gay-trapeze-sex-club.html

Michelle — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 21:17:00 -0000

That would go over good! They won't even let topless dancers in this town! Even if it's considered a place for artist to gather and practice their drawing skills!

Re: http://www.offendedblogger.com/2008/10/id-hit-that-offensive.html

Michelle — Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:10:00 -0000

chelle, why are you pickin' on my sweet cuzzins?

i tagged em both, they are great luv'ahs

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/02/5-months.html

Michelle — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 20:14:00 -0000

She is so pretty, Kim. I love the picture of her giving you a big, slobbery kiss!

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/02/32.html

Michelle — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:00:00 -0000

Happy birthday, Kim. You look fabulous!

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/03/baby-dress.html

Michelle — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 15:44:00 -0000

The dress/shirt is cute, but the little girl is WAY more cute!!! lol

Hope you are doing well. Just thinking about you.

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/05/mamas-losin-it.html

Michelle — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:13:00 -0000

Kim,
I feel badly for you, and I can sense just how overwhelmed you are. I'm so sorry. Unfortunately I can't offer you any advice because I have let all three of my kiddos cry it out with a lot of success, but I know that this is not an option for you. I just wanted to say that I hope something works soon. Could it just be that she really doesn't require the naps that you think she does? We certainly cannot bundle all babies into one category and say that they "all" need them. Perhaps she doesn't?

Good luck. I'm thinking about you.
Michelle

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/06/this-is-it.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 22:15:26 -0000

I loved you then, and I love you now. I'm here for you always, Kim.

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/blogher-recap.html

Michelle — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 18:04:09 -0000

I'm so happy that you were able to go and enjoy yourself, Kim. You totally deserved it, and I hope that you will find some way to be able to go again next year. Oh, and just to reiterate...that picture of you and LIbby is AMAZING. You look absolutely stunning, and the little one has a smile to melt anyones heart!

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/blogher-2010-here-i-come.html

Michelle — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 21:09:16 -0000

I am so happy for you, Kim! You totally deserve it!

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/she-makes-me-laugh.html

Michelle — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 21:54:56 -0000

She is so cute!

Re: http://prairie-mama.blogspot.com/2009/08/man-alive-am-i-funny.html

Michelle — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:19:22 -0000

The bottom right hand corner picture...awesome. Such a pretty smile, Kim.

Re: What is your ecological footprint?

Michelle — Tue, 26 Jul 2005 13:06:21 -0000

19 for me, but I am raising an enviormental lobbiest.

Re: the Bono Bandwagon

Michelle — Tue, 09 Aug 2005 15:40:32 -0000

Thanks for being real Van. I think in a way you are kind of my figure head for understanding the house chruch movement, and sometimes that makes me pedistal you. So when you pose questions that you don't have the answer too I think "What do you mean you don't have the answer. Aren't you pioneering this whole deal."

Please...Please..Don't think though that I get angary, or want you to be perfect. I can't stand it when parishioners put that kind of pressure on a pastor (and that is putting my disdain lightly) Or that I believe you think yourself perfect either.
But for some reason to me its nice to know that you desire to be a deeper reflection of Christ too.

Re: Incarnational Practice 2: Practice Strategic Consumerism

Michelle — Tue, 09 Aug 2005 15:47:10 -0000

Do you think this should only happen in same gendered situations? Or else how do you avoid them thinking your intrested in something more?

Re: 50 Most Influential Churches

Michelle — Thu, 11 Aug 2005 13:59:35 -0000

I felt like I was looking at the Electoral College. Kel and I took our honeymoon in TX and they have billboards all over with chruch advirtisments and they always included a picutre of the pastor. Just like someone running for office. We kept laughing and planned on attending the chruch with the best looking Pastor.

Re: 50 Most Influential Churches

Michelle — Fri, 12 Aug 2005 20:24:47 -0000

But why should the head pastors picture be included? What purpose does it serve?
It seems to me in Minnesota more than other places that I have lived that people are prone to say "I attend Piper's chruch, or Boyd's chruch." Above even the chruch name, and that gives me a sinking feeling. Kind of like 1 cor. 3:2-5 I also feel like the article in a way suggests that the only way to leave your mark for Christ is by aspiring for Mega-chruch hood. I don't buy that.

Re: Blogging Fast

Michelle — Mon, 22 Aug 2005 00:18:03 -0000

Yes, but could you still please check and help me out with some of the things I'm trying to grasp with postmodernism and emergent. I've just begun reading the books, and am working through some ideas and was hoping for some help from your end of things. In a way it really is action since you would be helping me come to some understandings about things, or at least let me know if I'm on the right track.

On a side note: My friend Greg might contact you about the leaf and bean and a lady named Gina too.

Re: Central Gathering: Incarnational instead of Attractional

Michelle — Wed, 14 Sep 2005 16:00:42 -0000

M.~

I think hindsight is always 20/20, but its a praise that you have a core group that shares the same vision. Its challenging to get even two christians to agree let alone 5 or more.
I don't think its the end of the world if you only have a large gathering once a month. Maybe you could just put it out there that gatherings will be held weekly or biweekly for anyone intrested in developing the incarnational side of Dei. Something more low key and intimate.
It doesn't seem like you guys lack ideas of where you want to be. Its more like how to get there.
I think Chris told me that failure or more mistakes were the best learing tools in all of this.
Oh and welcome back too!!

Re: On Autumn Sluggishness

Michelle — Wed, 02 Nov 2005 12:34:21 -0000

Lol maybe your pregnant too :)

Re: Technorati Weblog: Technorati is slammed right now

Michelle — Sat, 09 Jul 2005 23:05:00 -0000

You know that alot of us ping Technorati automatically through our blog software right..regardless of what the post is about...

Re: The Thinking Man’s Take On: Year-End Lists

Michelle — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 17:13:07 -0000

Could you or somebody else put this on zshare or something like that? I can't download them from these links.

Re: Spanish Wine, Portuguese Wine - Attention RSS Subscribers to Catavino

Michelle — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 07:51:45 -0000

Hi there Ryan!

I've noticed my RSS subscriptions are through the roof lately too. Because I get so few comments, I also worry about scrapers. I read your blog through Google Reader. I don't subscribe to the podcast, but I ought to mention it to Kevin. He loves podcasts, but they're not my learning style.

We took a Spanish wine seminar from Doug Frost last November and have been hooked ever since. I don't know for sure what the last one we drank was - but we recently bought a case of Borsao Tres Picos and a case of Red Guitar. For the holidays, we had a case of Vina Borgia that we gave away to everyone. There's always Spanish wine available in our house.

Cheers!

Re: Wine Bloggers Unite? or at least Discuss!

Michelle — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 06:39:31 -0000

Ryan:

I do think we are making a difference, although explaining it to folks like my dad is a little complicated. My blog is rather regionally focused (it's always good to have a niche). Every week I get a few emails from folks who are thanking me for introducing them to this, that, or the other. I appreciate that from my readers and it makes me feel like I'm not just doing this for my own amusement and better understanding, which is why it started. It's nice.

I like your definition, but Tom and Richard are right. Daily is a little rough. I know that I tend to miss Saturday - Monday each week. I never mean to miss Mondays ...

This is a fun idea, and useful, I think, as is the Facebook Group.

Cheers, and thanks ...

Re: Wine Bloggers Unite? or at least Discuss!

Michelle — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 08:31:52 -0000

Perhaps "a person who publishes a "daily" online journal about wine." might instead be

"a person who publishes online content on a regular basis" or some such wording. Online content embraces all sorts of new media.

Re: April Fools

Michelle — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 12:57:00 -0000

Props for your Photochopping skillz. Did your wife think it was funny too?

Re: Buttered Beets

Michelle — Wed, 13 May 2009 03:09:00 -0000

I love beets roasted. I moved to Australia from America about three years ago and was introduced to this. Amazing. They're also good roasted, then chilled and thrown into salad, on sandwhiches and burgers.

YUMMY!

Re: A Must-See, Listen, Read on Race, Gender and the Election

Michelle — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:12:00 -0000

This will/should be a classic interview about race and gender politics. I am so proud to be a black woman.

Thank you Melissa

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 20:34:00 -0000

Melissa Harris-Lacewell has a great article out today. The Clinton Fallacy.

http://www.slate.com/id/2182745/

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:00:00 -0000

I agree. It would be difficult for me to wait in lines at the polls to vote for her. I know AA voters owe a lot to those who came before us, but it will be really difficult. I'm not surprised by the Clintons; I'm surprised by the black leaders who have literally sold out, not because they don't support Obama. But because they have been bought by the Clintons. They are knee-deep, on bended knees, that is. It's really disheartening.

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:29:00 -0000

I agree. But, I am not conceding a Clinton win, yet. Barack can rock this thing. He is gathering independent and republican support, and many democrats are being turned off by the Clinton tactics.

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 21:51:00 -0000

Certainly. And I like Obama's bottom-up approach to change. We have forgotten that The People have the power, not the politicians. Wouldn't it be funny if districts mobilized and said they are not going to vote their representatives back in office if they do not come out STRONG for Barack. Imagine. Right now we act like they own us, like they know better.

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:02:00 -0000

Wouldn't that be something. Obama supporters, regardless of race, would do that. Now I would wait in line for that.

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 13:29:00 -0000

I don't think anyone was suggesting only Blacks write in Obama. The conversation here is not a separatist one. In fact, I think I said or was trying to say Demos, Indep, and Repubs -- anybody--who supports Obama should show their support in Nov.

Also, to discuss AA political history and community issues does not negate the hope for wider, inclusive political change.

Re: The Clintons, Black Folk and America - A Reckoning

Michelle — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 20:39:00 -0000

Here's another for you wiki -- I don't want to mess it up.

Bill:

Another reporter asked what it said about Obama that it “took two people to beat him.” Clinton again passed. “That’s’ just bait, too. Jesse Jackson won South Carolina twice, in '84 and '88. And he ran a good campaign. Senator Obama's run a good campaign here, he’s run a good campaign everywhere.”

Ok, I think Bill's true colors have been revealed. I hope the MSM picks up on this tomorrow.

Also is anyone else confused. Is Bill running for Pres. He spoke and was televised BEFORE Hillary. She sent a letter to the networks. So now people are voting for Bill? WTH?

http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2008/01/26/611927.aspx

Carolyne Kennedy is endorsing Barack Obama tomorrow.

Re: Final Margin

Michelle — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 22:09:00 -0000

What's up with John Edwards? Maybe it's good he is in the race because it he gets some white votes that might have pushed Hillary closer. We will see how that works in other states. He's deluded. He really wants a cabinent position after he sells his soul (oh, I mean delegates) for a position in the administration.

We the people can't let the MSM or the Clintons wield their power around. No more!

Re: Obama Ba-Rocks Clinton Out of South Carolina 55-27-18

Michelle — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 22:10:00 -0000

Bill spoke for 75 minutes tonight, before Hillary spoke. Boring. I can't believe he is still awake.

Re: Senator Ted Kennedy to Endorse Obama

Michelle — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 22:12:00 -0000

Hello everyone.
If we didn't already know that the Clintons are dishonest, Hillary is campaigning in Florida. She went back on her word (pact) with the other two and the party rules to leave Florida alone since the delegates won't matter. Now she is calling for them to be seated. I really hope someone in the MSM or a Obama stumper mentions this. Her word means NOTHING.

On another note, I just learned that some preachers are paid to "consult/endorse" candidates. On George Stephonoplaus (sp?) they talked about Obama won SC without "street money," meaning he did buy the endorsments of black preachers. Intially, he and Clinton were bidding for churches (not sure how that works) but he decided he wasn't going to do that. His integrity won over.

Hmmmm. . Calvin Butts in NY is also a paid Clinton consultant.

I wonder if the members of the congregations know they are bing prostituted to the political establishment. How much of the money do the members, the church building, the missionary workers, receive from the deal? This is the epitome of selling one's soul.

Re: Senator Ted Kennedy to Endorse Obama

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 08:29:00 -0000

I don't see how the Clintons live with themselves. I am listening to the senior advisor for Clinton scorn Obama about ignoring MI and FL. His argument -- the people in FL matter and they are coming out by the hundred thousands.

Now, this is just like Nevada. The rules that the party set were fine months ago. Now that they do not benefit the Clintons, they want to change the rules.

This much hate is not good for my spirit.

Let us pray.

Re: Obama’s Victory Speech in South Carolina

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 09:25:00 -0000

Breaking News:

Toni Morrison to endorse Obama.

http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/01/author-toni-mor.html

Re: Obama’s Victory Speech in South Carolina

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 10:41:00 -0000

Don't forget to watch Obama and the Kennedy's today at 12:45. It's going to be on the air everywhere.

Yes we can!

Re: Obama’s Victory Speech in South Carolina

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:01:00 -0000

I thought the Kennedy endorsments were awesome. It wasn't long (unlike the recent speeches of the Clintons, I hear). And Ted Kennedy is on fire. I would hate to be in the Clinton camp right now. They have to go back to the drawing board. Do you come out negative? Will that backfire again?

What can they do?

Re: Buchanan: Black And Latino Voters Are Like Gangs

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:40:00 -0000

Hello everyone. My hubby just called from work. He was listening to Al Sharpton on XM radio and Al was pissed at the Clintons. An aside--it is good that Al hasn't been on tv a lot b/c it could hurt Obama. Back to my point. Al, who has a lot of influence in NY, could use his anger at the Clintons to get out the vote for Barack. Basically he was angry that the Clintons have been insulting blacks and Al said don't believe this stuff about the party coming back together. We don't have to be democracts!

Not to be too cocky b/c I am praying for Obama everynight. But let's play a game:

What are the Clintons doing now?

1. Hillary is fussing at Clinton. . "After Monica, you promised me the White House."

I know that isn't nice. I'm sorry. Keep Hope Alive

Re: The Root

Michelle — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:01:00 -0000

Obama can't attack racism head-on as he is campaigning. If he does, he will lose. That doesn't mean, however, that he will look over it as president.

We gotta trust the brother. We are more apt to trust people like the Clintons (maybe from our slave days) than someone black.

There is strategy at play here.

Re: Ted Kennedy’s Endorsement Speech (full video - 20min)

Michelle — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:49:00 -0000

Hi again.

I want to know from the females if you think the Kennedy endorsment was a betrayal to all women. The National Organization of Women in NY seems to think so.

http://www.nownys.org/pr_2008/pr_012808.html

I'm beside myself.

Re: Spinning The Snub

Michelle — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 21:44:00 -0000

Poor Hillary. This is an attempt to garner more sympathy for the supposed future commander-in-chief. Will everything be about hurt feelings or being slighted as a woman if she is the president. I have a feeling it will. This is so high school, it is a shame.

I like the Obama is staying above this and I pray folks use the good sense God gave them to see through her crap.

I'm a black woman and I don't go for this crap. Get some *&)*^* backbone.

By the way, I am not waiting in line at the polls to vote for her on any given day.

BTW: new Obama site. It's like youtube but called YouBama. Check out the Kamala Harris video from San Franciso. That's a woman with a spine.

http://www.youbama.com/

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 13:18:00 -0000

Hillary Clinton
- no integrity

- neo-racist, as others have said she pitted Brown against Black. I hope the Latino communities get hip to this.

- no accountability for the vote for war

You all must read this endorsement at http://www.mapa.org called Si se puede! Obama. These brown brothers and sisters left no stone unturned when it comes to calling out the Clintons racism.

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 13:19:00 -0000

Oh, I will never vote for Clinton. Never.

I won't vote republican either, but at least they (some of them, not all) don't try to disguise their racism.

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 13:49:00 -0000

Check out Obama's Healthcare mailer. The Clinton's don't like it. :(

http://www.politico.com/pdf/PPM44_080130_nd_obama_hrc_healthcare_plan_forces_health_insurance2.pdf

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 16:34:00 -0000

D,

For me it is a personal and political choice not to vote for Hillary or a Republican. First, I just can't reward race-baiting, among other things.

Second, I believe, like Barack, the power resides in the people. We have the power to let the status quo know that dynasty, race-baiting politics, divisive politics, will not work anymore. See, the only way the status quo remains is by the consent of the people. Yes, we may complain, but if we do not take a risk and act in some manner on that complaint, then we are complicit. What the status quo wants more than anything is to keep people of color separate. Divide and Conquer. You notice there is not much news, if any, about Hillary's scapegoating Latinos for AA job loss. White folk would be up the creek if Brown and Black came together, ain't no way our voices or agendas wouldn't be heard by someone who is Brown or Black or both. That's what they don't want and that is their fear with Obama.

About moveon.org. And Fox news. -- I am not conceding my power to them. I make my decisions based on my knowledge of racial history, the converging stories of people of color in the US, the betrayal of white feminists/organizations to people of color, the disgust of Hillary playing the gender card and the race card (whiteness and fear of "colored unity"). I base my decision on integrity, family values, fidelity, and the desire for leading family that is not tainted and spotted from illicit deals and actions that sucks the life out of our economy, our hope, and our belief in government.

Damn. . . brown and black and yellow and whites w/out money built this country.

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:26:00 -0000

D,

If that is what you feel in your heart, go for what you know.

This is what I know.

Clintons (and we must look at them together)

1. millions of blacks are already dead from the failure to stop genocide in Rwanda, the failure to treat Haitians humanely

2.divisiveness is the Clinton way to rule and conquer. They have proven they can't/will not work with independents and republicans, Hillary laughed at the idea of talking to our "enemies" around the world, and as I have stated, they continue to fuel race wars within the party, which benefits them because whiteness is so invisible to us.

3. I am not as fearful of "others" who seek to do us harm from abroad as I am of wolves in sheeps' clothing who live within our borders.

At some point you(we) have to stand for change. If not now, when? If not us, who?

I am not voting on fear of change. I welcome it. I pray for it.

I teach African American studies at a university in the south. We were discussing the Matrix and talked about the line where Morpheus says some people are so hopelessly committed to the system that they will do anything in their power to defend it, even people who are harmed by it. Because, I believe, we are a people who suffer from Stockholm syndrome. For hundreds of years our bodies and minds were kidnapped, tortured, and taught to love and respect the system. That same plantation system and mentality resides within so many of us (people of color in general). We are a colonized people. But the plantation offers somes semblance of consistency and well-being. At least we eat, right? At least we have public eduation, right? Even though the system reserves the worst food, the worst grocery stores, the worst schools for us. At least. . . And, we will defend it because we don't know or see any better.

Change is scary. Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. There is no way for us to see the possibilities because we have never been this close to change, at least in this manner, before. I'm sure Nat Turner was afraid, Ida B. Wells was afraid, MLK was afraid, etc. They had no assurance either and were directly confronted with the real possiblity of dying - any day, any time. We are not, at least not by a terrorist, like some would have us to believe.

What this means for me is we have other options. We don't have to remain on the plantation. We don't even have to be sharecroppers anymore. The Clintons want us to be sharecroppers. They want us to owe them more than we make, and to appear as benevolent oversears.

The Republican option is a no-brainer.

The other option (as has been discussed in other threads on this blog) is for the power of the people to say know to the sharecropper. . . we will not work the land for you, stock your fridge, pay you for working the land, and still have to borrow money from you in order to eat. That means I don't vote to support a sharecropping political system. I might write in Obama's name. Does this mean Obama will revolutionize the entire system (Matrix) for us. Probably not. Will his election and presidency moves us closer to a more just society. Yes. I want to move.

What say ye?

BTW, I didn't proofread.:)

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 17:35:00 -0000

Hello Community,

Cornel West is on C-Span now.

Talking about Race and the election.

He was one of Obama's earliest supporters. Didn't wait or jump on the Obama ain't a true ng. bandwagon. Watch live online

http://c-span.org/watch/cs_cspan_wm.asp?Cat=TV&Code;=CS

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:41:00 -0000

Good News!

Mandatory Health Insurance Shot Down in CA

This backs up Obama argument that Clinton's mandatory program will penalize people. You must read this article. It discusses possible tax exemptions being taken away, wages garnished, etc.

How guy is really smart. Hillarycare would have failed again.

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 20:42:00 -0000

Here is the link:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120173996744030445.html?mod=opinion_main_commentaries

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 00:40:00 -0000

Nance,

What's not true? Who's not fair? About what?

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 01:30:00 -0000

I wouldn't say it's been so quick. At least not for me. I don't care how diverse your staff is, if you abandon black women in the time of need (Guinier, Elders, Cole), ignore GENOCIDE in Rwanda, support NAFTA, encourage a race war between Blacks and Whites, and Blacks and Browns, use your workplace and position to gain sexual favors, etc., your diverse staff means nothing.

The Clintons have been all up and through black folks communities and churches. I think we know them. The question is, do they know us?

You sound like a sincere supporter, and I wish you well.

Re: Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 19:23:00 -0000

The amazing musical group Sweet Honey in the Rock have a song called "No More Auction Block." I think all Black churches should play it Sunday morning, repeatedly, instead of the usual services.

Listen to the song, kneel before your God, and pray that we are no longer slaves.

What's most important to me - at least for the future of our people and political power- is that the establishment know that they cannot ever take our votes for granted again.

No more auction block.

Re: Bill’s ‘Mea Culpa’ Church Tour

Michelle — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 19:30:00 -0000

Who's running for president again? Bill or Hillary?

I hope Bill doesn't fall asleep like he did during the MLK service.

Re: A ‘Skeptic’ Sees Some Obama Light

Michelle — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 10:10:00 -0000

I think most people understand that last night was massive for Obama. What the Clintons don't want to highlight is all those states like MO, KS, ID, ND, etc broke BIG for Obama.

If he can win those states, then his chances in a national election are tremendous. Clinton hung on to the big party machine states, working class whites who always vote against their interests, and some of these female folks that believe "it's their 'turn'."

That said I want to give a shout out to all the people who voted AGAINST allowing the Clintons to do them greasy.

Especially my people in Georgia and Alabama and my "new" people in Idaho, North Dakota, Alaska, Kansas, Minnesota, and Colorado.

Thanks for not jumping in the Clinton trickbag.

Re: My Boy Derrick Ashong Holds It DOWN For Obama and Intelligence

Michelle — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 12:30:00 -0000

I HATED the interviewer. Do you have something other than an emotional response? Oh right we have to watch out when these Negroes get emotional and carried away.

Ohhh-I would have slapped him.

Props to Derrick for holding it-what? DOWN.

Re: An Important Reminder Of Why I Support Obama - Empowerment

Michelle — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 15:17:00 -0000

You know I agree with you-what this whole thing should be about is the voters in this country pulling their collective fingers out and really holding politicians accountable.

BUT, I know how well fed and comfortable most people are in this country and that kind of comfort makes people politically lazy (myself included).

Unless people really go broke and start losing all their material nonsense, they'll let this moment go by.

I hate to say it and in my heart I hope it's not true, but I think the majority of the trifling people in this country will get and have been getting exactly what they deserve in a president.

They'll all be crying when Billary's healthcare mandates start cutting into their paychecks.

Maybe then they'll wake up, but by then it will be too late.

Re: Obama Wins Maine Caucus

Michelle — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 19:51:00 -0000

I know that all politicians are dirty-but this piece just reminds me that the Clintons are probably among the dirtiest of all:

http://www.counterpunch.org/cole02082008.html

Weekend Edition

February 8 / 10, 2008

An Open Letter to Hillary Clinton from Another Wellesley College Alumna

Hillary, Will You Renounce Your Ties to Monsanto?

By LINN COHEN-COLE

Dear Hillary,

By polling logic, I should be your supporter -- Democrat, woman, white, liberal. But this past summer I saw a News Hour show on farmers committing suicide in Maharastra, India, which affected me deeply. I started learning what was happening to farmers and to food and how the Clintons are connected.

The News Hour piece said Monsanto, a US agricultural corporation, hired Bollywood actors to sell illiterate farmers Bt (genetically engineered) cotton seeds, promising they'd get rich from big yields. The expensive seeds needed expensive fertilizer and pesticides (Monsanto's) and irrigation. There is no irrigation there. Crops failed. Farmers had immense debt and couldn't collect seeds to try again because Monsanto seeds are "patented" as "intellectual property").

"Genetic Engineering is often justified as a human technology, one that feeds more people with better food. Nothing could be further from the truth. With very few exceptions, the whole point of genetic engineering is to increase sales of chemicals and bio-engineered products to dependent farmers."

David Ehrenfield: Professor of Biology, Rutgers University.

Monsanto has a $10 million budget and 75 person staff to prosecute farmers.

Since the late 1990s (as industrial agriculture took hold in India),166,000 Indian farmers have committed suicide and 8 million have left the land (P. Sainath, The Hindu). Farmers in Europe, Asia, Africa, Indonesia, South America, Central America and here, have all protested Monsanto and genetic engineering.

What does this have to do with you?

Your Orwellian-named "Rural Americans for Hillary" were Monsanto's lobbyists. My greater concern, though, is you former-employer, Rose Law Firm, representing Monsanto, world's largest GE (GE - genetic engineering) corporation; Tyson, world's largest meat producer; Walmart, the world's largest retailer. Rose is home to Industrial FOOD.

Rose's cozy connections: Jon Jacoby, senior at the Stephens Group - one of the largest shareholders of Tyson, Walmart, DP&L; - is C.O.B. of DP&L;, arranged the Wal-Mart deal. Jackson Stephens' Stephens Group staked Walton, financed Tyson. Monsanto bought DP&L.; Walmart's board invited you on, Tyson executive helped you do $100,000 trade just before Bill' governorship, Jackson Stephens backed Bill for Governor, then President (donating $100,000).

Monsanto made Agent Orange, PCBs, nuclear weapons components, pesticides, and with that diverse background in death, are now "doing" food.

Bill in office:

USDA immediately significantly weakened chicken waste/contamination standards, easing Tyson's poultry-factory expansion.

1. Monsanto people were put in charge of food, ...

2. FDA okayed Monsanto's rBGH (bovine growth hormone), first GE-product ever approved.

3. Despite bovine illness/death, FDA didn't recall or warn.

4. When dairymen labeled milk "rBGH-free," USDA threatened confiscation.

5. Organic food was the last way around unknown danger. FDA tried to close that escape with new "organic" standards, to include: genetic engineering of plants/animals, food irradiation , sewage sludge fertilizer.

USDA backed down from public response 20 times greater than to anything before American food:

Oils: Indian sheep died eating from Bt cotton fields. Our children eat Bt cottonseed oil in peanut butter, cookies.

Grains: 49 per cent of corn acreage planted in Bt corn in 2007. A French study indicates it causes kidney and liver toxicity. . Monsanto controls US's two main crops, soy (90% GMO, 90% of traits "belong" to Monsanto) and corn, the largest crop (60% GMO, nearly 100% Monsanto "owned" traits).

Meat: Steroids bulk athletes, Monsanto steroids fatten animals, our fattening children eat steroid-laced meats. FDA allowed "known TSE-positive (Transmissible spongiform encephalopathy Mad Cow Disease) material to be used in pet food, pig, chicken and fish feed." Monsanto's GE-hormone increases risk sick cows are entering US food chain

Poultry: USDA weakened waste/contamination standards. Waste from transnational poultry industry is now implicated as the source of bird flu. The poultry industry is using the crisis to push out small farmers.

Milk: Scientific studies indicate Monsanto's rBGH increases risks of breast cancer by up to seven-fold, increases colon, prostate cancers risks. Canada, 29 European nations, Norway, Switzerland, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa ban U.S. rBGH dairy products. Bill's USFDA put no restrictions, warning labels, or any labels.

Control out of control.

Monsanto's Terminator genes make plants sterile after one season, posing apocalyptic risk of breaking out into nature. GE breakouts have contaminated maize and weeds, already.

Monsanto, meat-packers, and the USDA are pushing NAIS (National Animal Identification System), a corporate database tracking small farmers' livestock.

Monsanto pushing state laws taking control from farmers, communities, over GE planting.

Cattle living in filth, 12,000-year-old seed loss, poultry industry implicated in bird flu, Mad Cow disease, bee colony collapse, poisoned soil, depleted water, Superweed), lawsuits against farmers, loss of family farms throughout the world, ... farmers committing suicide. Industrial agriculture.

Bees and farmers, dead canaries in that mine.

Your proposed "Department of Food Safety" centralizes control over food into whose hands? Tough talk on labeling "foreign" food but Bill degraded US food and prevented minimally sane labeling. You never objected.

Monsanto uses child labor in India.

You take Monsanto donations. Blacks, our poorest group, have to eat Monsanto's steroid/hormone/antibiotic-filled GE food. You take Monsanto donations.

Who are you protecting? National Black Farmers Association, boycotting Monsanto? Babies drinking rBGH milk? Women fearing breast cancer? Despairing farmers? Suffering animals? Children fed kidney-and-liver-toxic Bt-corn?

Or Monsanto?

I am a person before I am a woman. Your gender is irrelevant. Given deadly threats to my grandchildren's future by your corporate connections (Edwards was right), I don't believe your talk of "caring" about Blacks/women/children/health/farmers/food.

I will vote for someone committed to small farmers - our ONLY real food safety. Your friends, though, are the heart of an international industrial agricultural nightmare.

Linn Cohen-Cole

Atlanta

Disclaimer. I am not a scientist. I have read for months on this subject, and am including only a tiny portion of the horrifying things I have learned. I am expressing my opinion as person and may be wrong. Perhaps things are swell out there and rBGH is fabulous and TSE-laced feed is great, and genetic engineering is the best thing since manna. But I am scared for my family and I have not only a right to say so but an obligation to do so. I am angry that Monsanto was allowed the influence it had and has done the things it definitely seems to have. I am disgusted by industrialization of every tender and beautiful part of our world and hope, for all our children's sake, we are not too late to pull back.

Re: Hillary’s Plan For Latino Votes In Texas: Exploit Little Mexican Boy

Michelle — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:50:00 -0000

Uggh-Please let this end. Please step off and step down!

On top of this, they're saying really wild things and I feel like the media is letting them go unchecked!!

Can we start a Clinton Quotes That Make You Go Hmmmm wiki?

Quote of the Day--Bill Clinton Edition (New Republic)

Former president, and man who receives hundreds of thousands of dollars per speech of the people Bill Clinton:

"The caucuses aren't good for [Hillary]. They disproportionately favor upper-income voters who, who, don't really need a president but feel like they need a change."

--Isaac Chotiner

Re: I Can’t Believe I’m About to Link To George Will

Michelle — Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:39:00 -0000

I can't take it. He's dead on-why's he have to be a jerk the other 95% of the time.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/peek-boo.html

Michelle — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:26:00 -0000

Oh, he's so cute!

What a wonder dogs can be. Thank you Lord for creating them!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/invincible.html

Michelle — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:31:00 -0000

Wow, Sara. Thanks. I feel the same about words. I can't seem to put them together into poetry, but I love reading others' thoughts. A beautifully turned phrase almost makes my heart melt.

Remembering the summer within.

I think one of these days I want to meet you. Maybe, if I ever make it to Mayo, I'll be close enough to visit???

Love you and have a good day!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/prayers.html

Michelle — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 21:58:00 -0000

Hey, Sara. I'm praying. Asking for relief and comfort. Praying for healing. He can do that too, you know.

Love you, Sara!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/prayers.html

Michelle — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 16:56:00 -0000

Sara!! I hadn't checked in for awhile! I see my good ol' cousin, Susie was trying her hand at blogging! Gotta love her! :) What a fabulous friend to have! I hope this finds you feeling better my friend. Take care sweets! :)
Michelle Tessman :)

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/thanks.html

Michelle — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 21:42:00 -0000

hope you're doing ok, thinking of you!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/thanks.html

Michelle — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:39:00 -0000

Now this is something to be thankful for! I know you're not totally better, but just knowing you're on the mend helps.

I'm still praying.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/what-thanksgiving.html

Michelle — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:10:00 -0000

glad to hear you're up and typing!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/what-thanksgiving.html

Michelle — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 13:11:00 -0000

It's good to hear you're improving daily!

Enjoy!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/happy-thanksgiving.html

Michelle — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 11:55:00 -0000

Relax and recupe!

Have a Blessed Thanksgiving, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/11/flashback-friday-writing-genes.html

Michelle — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 14:40:00 -0000

I love the part about liking people. That is SO true. I know lots of people who really don't like others and they're bitter and angry about life. It's very sad.

And the dark threads in the tapestry of life...such wisdom.

You come from good stock!!

When I saw the picture, I understood where the curly hair comes from. hee-hee.

Love you, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/savor-your-moments.html

Michelle — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 13:30:00 -0000

"I've messed up things in my life, but this is one area for which I am thankful to have understood it's importance."

Thanks for bringing this out. Some days I feel I'm missing out on so much of my children's lives with not being able to get to the games and concerts. Just going out to eat isn't always possible. But I did have many years of homeschooling, being with my kids 24/7. I have much to be grateful about -- savoring the memories!

Love you, Gitz!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/by-chimney-with-care.html

Michelle — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:37:00 -0000

You are quite the decorator!

I guess you get this from your mother?

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/blog-buttons.html

Michelle — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:13:00 -0000

Very cool.

Thank you thank you thank you thank you!!!!

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/breath-of-heaven.html

Michelle — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 19:21:00 -0000

Beautiful, Sara.

Simply beautiful.

Re: http://gitzengirl.blogspot.com/2008/12/i-winner.html

Michelle — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:15:00 -0000

How wonderful!

Gifts from the heart are the best.

I give handmade gifts but am always a bit hesitant about giving them, just cause they may not seem so wonderful to the receiver. It's really good to know when someone appreciates the gift.

Nice way to show your appreciation, Gitz.

Beautiful afghans. I need to learn that stitch.

Re: Off The Table

Michelle — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 10:26:00 -0000

You know, Sara, I remember reading your response at Alece's and thought, "Man! I want to get there."

I still want to get there. He's working on me, calling me closer all the time. He's using you to speak to me, as well.

And I think that's really cool.

Thank you for this.

Love you!

Re: Flashback Friday: The Dancing Brady Bunch

Michelle — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 14:42:00 -0000

I LOVE IT!!!

Lawrence Welk was always a favorite for me. I loved the singing and the dancing.

Five siblings...you never want for company, huh? I have two and they want to come over all. the. time.

Love you, Gitz!

Re: Shame On You, Barack Obama?? Really?

Michelle — Sat, 23 Feb 2008 20:49:00 -0000

I hate to tell people not to excercise the right so many of our elders died for, but if this latest round of chicanery from those Clintons pushes her into the nomination, BLACK PEOPLE STAY HOME.

STAY HOME.

McCain will be no worse or no better than her as president.

The DNC is a disgrace. Instead of issuing a ho sit down to both of the Clintons on this mess, they have stayed silent.

This party is a disgrace. I'm sorry, if she gets the nomination, I am staying home and not voting.

Re: Anti-Semites For McCain

Michelle — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:17:00 -0000

I'm another white Jewish lurker. This is my first comment on the site. Here's what I saw in the exchange about Farrakhan in the debate:

I saw Senator Clinton, a white Christian, using white Jews as cover to implicitly question Senator Obama's loyalty to white people overall and to basically demand that he publicly disrespect another Black man.

And she was questioning his loyalty and making this demand -- on what basis? For her and her people? Oh no. Not directly. Nope, it was supposedly for us, "the Jews." We served as objects in the real dynamic of what she was doing.

This is a particular subtle anti-Semitism that has a historical context in the way that European Christians use European Jews as objects in various ways. In that exchange, we served a purpose for the white Christian perspective.

And also -- Senator Obama was talking about coalition between (not-Jewish) Black people and (not-Black) Jewish people. Senator Clinton's approach would actively undermine the possibility of such a coalition by setting us against each other and inserting herself, the supposedly benevolent white Christian, as our (Jews') real friend.

But this is what I know in my bones, in my family's actual history: European Christians and their nations have collectively done far far more damage to my people -- European Jews -- than just about any group around.

They use us as objects for their games. And we sometimes consent, we sometimes believe their lies (this time it will be different, right?). And then, despite the history and reality of their actions -- then they tell us to fear others more than them, and they tell us they're our friends. And sometimes we -- collectively and individually -- believe them.

But the truth that I see is that they really just use us as objects in whatever their game is at the time. In this case, Sen. Clinton used us as cover for that deeper game she was playing about loyalty and disrespect.

So myself ... I caught those underneath dynamics loud and clear.

And so did the person with me. The white Christian who was with me at the time moved directly into some rather vicious but also very subtle anti-Semitism just after she was exposed to that exchange. This is a person who in the past has been a really seriously solid ally to me when it comes to the dynamics between our respective peoples.

But she was affected by the underneath discussion that was going on, she "heard" (without initially being conscious of it, though she figured it out in the subsequent discussion) -- anyway, she "heard" loud and clear how Senator Clinton's approach gave permission to white Christian Obama supporters to hate on us (Jews) presumably (but not actually) on his behalf.

And this is only one response to Sen. Clinton's coded approach -- I think it probably had a message for various groups in various ways, but this was what I saw at the time with the person I was with.

So in my perspective, I feel it is also important to look at how Senator Clinton was using Jews as objects, and for what purpose she was doing it --

That is, to also look at the subtle and powerful anti-Semitism in what she said/did. Anti-Semitism comes in many forms, focusing only on the ones who say it directly misses the more subtle varieties, IMO.

Re: Embedded In Texas - 1st Impressions, This Will Be Crazy

Michelle — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:21:00 -0000

Thank you so much for going out their and fighting the good - no the *great* - fight.

Re: The Race-Baiter Won the Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas Primaries

Michelle — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 01:06:00 -0000

It's outrageous. Here in RI: http://providencedailydose.com/2008/03/03/revol..., America does not deserve Barack Obama. Fucking hillbillies.

Re: The Race-Baiter Won the Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas Primaries

Michelle — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 09:21:00 -0000

Rita,
The '3 am call' ad was pandering to white female voters (security moms, I guess) with its scenario of some nebulous fear that only the Great White Hope can save us from.

Anyway, if Clinton steals the nomination, I think we'd be better served to vote for Barack Obama as a write-in come November rather than vote for McCain.

Re: I am BLACK

Michelle — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 16:12:00 -0000

I agree. The Republicans at least have the decency to say "We hate you all" out loud and clear.

The Democratic party can sit and spin on this one.

Black people have never (and some would argue will never) have it good in this system no matter what party is in charge.

This government has laws on the books to disenfranchise us and the Democratic party has done little to nothing to change those laws.

All we are to them are political pawns.

So I totally agree. If I do deign to vote-it will be for Nader.

I was a registered Independent and will go back to being one after this shambles of an election is over.

Re: I am BLACK

Michelle — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 20:22:00 -0000

Calling Clinton a "heifer" and "witch" is pretty minor. No one here is attacking her for being a woman. These are pretty mild epithets, not even approaching the same level of racist fear-mongering and voter shenanigans that HRC tried to get away with. Blogs like J&J; are a huge reason why she hasn't been completely successful in this line of attack.

Re: If Hillary Gets To Claim Michigan And Florida, Denver Will Burn

Michelle — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 12:03:00 -0000

FYI-anyone asks about "Nafta-gate"

Show them this:

http://www.thecarpetbaggerreport.com/archives/14797.html

‘NAFTA-gate’ story takes unexpected turn

Posted March 6th, 2008 at 9:15 am

Share This | Spotlight | Permalink

Just when I thought I’d gotten a handle on the so-called “NAFTA-gate” story, it takes an unexpected turn.

Some Canadian news outlets reported last week that Barack Obama’s campaign had reached out to Canadian officials, telling them to effectively ignore Obama’s concerns about NAFTA, claiming the rhetoric was just political posturing. Those reports turned out to be false. Canadian news also noted that Obama aides had contacted the Canadian ambassador with the same message. That turned out to be false, too. Both Hillary Clinton and John McCain read almost identical talking points, but much of the accusations proved to be unfounded. Nevertheless, given the attention and scrutiny, the largely controversy had a fairly significant impact in Tuesday’s primaries.

Now, a new report out of Toronto suggests the original story may have left out some important details.

If the Prime Minister is seeking the first link in the chain of events that has rocked the U.S. presidential race, he need look no further than his chief of staff, Ian Brodie, The Canadian Press has learned.

A candid comment to journalists from CTV News by Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s most senior political staffer during the hurly-burly of a budget lock-up provided the initial spark in what the American media are now calling NAFTAgate.

Mr. Harper announced Wednesday that he has asked an internal security team to begin finding the source of a document leak that he characterized as being “blatantly unfair” to Senator Barack Obama.

OK, so the chief of staff of Canada’s conservative Prime Minister decided he wanted to meddle in the Democratic Party’s primary process. Clearly, that’s wildly inappropriate.

But the odd twist is that it may have been Clinton who reassured Canadians about NAFTA.

From the Globe and Mail:

Since 75 per cent of Canadian exports go to the U.S., Mr. Obama and Ms. Clinton’s musings about reopening the North American free-trade pact had caused some concern.

Mr. Brodie downplayed those concerns.

“Quite a few people heard it,” said one source in the room.

“He said someone from (Hillary) Clinton’s campaign is telling the embassy to take it with a grain of salt. . . That someone called us and told us not to worry.”

Government officials did not deny the conversation took place.

So, let me get this straight. If this report is right, the Clinton campaign gave assurances to the Canadians not to worry about her rhetoric on NAFTA. The Clinton campaign then spent a week hammering Obama on alleged assurances to Canadians about his rhetoric on NAFTA?

Based on reporting from the Canadian Press (what is effectively the Canadian AP), Ian Brodie chatted with reporters about Obama and Clinton, but somehow, the story only ended up focusing on the prior, not the latter.

“He said someone from Clinton’s campaign is telling the Embassy to take it with a grain of salt,” said one participant in the conversation. The source added, “someone called us [from Clinton’s staff] and told us not to worry.”

Josh Marshall asks, “So was Hillary bashing Obama for what her own campaign had done? Did they both do it? Was it all a set up?”

I guess we’ll know more as the story unfolds, and at this point, many of the details appear a little murky. That said, if the Clinton campaign effectively hammered Obama for something they themselves did, this story might end up causing them some heartburn, too.

Re: If Hillary Gets To Claim Michigan And Florida, Denver Will Burn

Michelle — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 15:29:00 -0000

From the DailyKos:

Who Called the Canadian Embassy? Someone Should Ask Jim Blanchard

by DHinMI

Thu Mar 06, 2008 at 11:50:20 AM PST

Someone should ask Jim Blanchard if he had anything to do with the flap about NAFTA involving the Clinton campaign, the Canadian embassy and a false press report accusing the Obama campaign of something instead done by the Clinton campaign.

Jim Blanchard was elected to Congress from Michigan in 1974. When Michigan lost seats in the 1980 reapportionment, he was redistricted out but ran successfully for governor in 1983. In 1990 he sought a third term. A diffident campaign, his perceived arrogance by many voters, and a feud with then-Detroit Mayor Coleman Young that kept turnout in Detroit severely suppressed all contributed to his narrow loss to John Engler. (He is still reviled by many Michigan Democrats who blame him for opening the door to that devastation wrought on the state by 12 years of John Engler.) In 1992 he was active with the Bill Clinton campaign. He apparently hoped to get a good spot in the administration—supposedly he coveted the job of Secretary of Transportation—but instead he was appointed Ambassador to Canada.

Blanchard is now with the Washington law firm of DLA Piper, where he chairs the firm's Government Affairs practice:

Consistently ranked as one of the nation’s top practices in the field of government affairs, DLA Piper’s attorneys and other professionals are active in federal and state legislative affairs, regulatory issues, government contracts, international trade, e-commerce and privacy, communications, anti-trust and trade regulation, energy, environment, financial services and a wide range of other issues before the federal government, state governments and internationally. The firm places a special emphasis on U.S.-Canada relations.

Jim Blanchard has extensive connections with Canadian political, business, legal and media leaders. He would understand Canadian concerns about US threats to renegotiate NAFTA, and as a former governor of Michigan, he would also understand the political fallout in a Democratic primary from being seen as "soft on NAFTA" in a struggling industrial state like Ohio. If the Clinton campaign needed someone to help them reach out to Canadian leadership, few are as well suited to do it as Jim Blanchard. And if the Clinton campaign tried to create a controversy to put Barack Obama on the defensive over NAFTA, Blanchard would be well suited to help with that as well. And while he may not have been involved, someone should ask him if he was, since he has also endorsed Hillary Clinton.

Oh, one other thing. In 2002 Blanchard tried a comeback, and ran for Governor of Michigan. He finished third in the Democratic primary, behind winner Jennifer Granholm and second-place finisher David Bonior. His pollster on that losing campaign? Mark Penn.

Shady Shady those Clintons. People wonder why there's vitriol.

Re: BREAKING: Obama Foreign Policy Advisor Samantha Power Resigns. When Does Mark Penn Get Fired?

Michelle — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 16:51:00 -0000

I think that the Obama campaign is just waiting it out - letting Hillary get all her negative stuff out there for all to see. Then, when they are good and ready, there will be about a million things ("McCain is more ready than Obama" etc.) to illustrate the Clinton campaign's negative tactics, providing a clear contrast to the Obama campaign's positive message.

I honestly think this lack of response to these gutter tactics is a smart one. Let her hang herself with her own negativity.

Re: Embedded In Texas: Insight From A Fellow Volunteer On HRC’s Primary "Win"

Michelle — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 15:57:00 -0000

Baratunde,
You've already done so much, but I was wondering if you are planning to go to Pennsylvania.

Re: Trinity UCC’s Palm Sunday Statement

Michelle — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:33:00 -0000

From the Washington Post:

Obama Plans Speech on Race

http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/03/17/obama_plans_speech_on_race.html

FYI I just saw this. Don't know how to feel about it. Because part of me hopes -- despite trying to be cynical, knowing how deep rooted racism/white supremacy is in the dynamics of this country -- still part of me hopes this will be able to help move and ground the public discussion in truth and sanity about what is really going on.

I kind of hate that I can't just sigh and go with cynical 100%. But I have difficulty doing that when it comes to Senator Obama. I am not entirely convinced this is a good thing but can't seem to shake it.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Michelle — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:13:00 -0000

I cried like a baby when I read it.

This guy is the real deal and he brought it all the way home with this speech.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Michelle — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:52:00 -0000

@MacDaddy Tue Mar 18, 11:24:00 AM 2008,

That this was THE 3 a.m. phone call for Barack. ...

His entire presidential candidacy was in the balance. How did he handle it? With painful honesty, transparency, and integriy.

I agree with you. How Sen Obama handled this is a clear indication of how he will deal with certain kinds of crises if elected president.

To get the bad stuff out of the way first: I was upset by the statement about him in some sense because I am more -- cynical or radical or something than he is about how foundational racism is in the existence of the United States.

BUT. But even so. IMO this was an amazing and excellent action in response to the ugliness/insanity developing in the typical US way of oversimplifications and soundbytes and affective associations they promote.

He responded by confront the issues head on, with honesty, transparency and and integrity as MacDaddy pointed out.

Kitty @ Tue Mar 18, 11:26:00 AM 2008wrote aHe actually talked to us like adults who are able to see the shades of gray. When was the last time a politician did that?

Yes yes exactly.

Way I see it is: This country is in an economic crisis and it's going to get worse. It's crash and burn time. How will its people respond as the economic hardships spread and spread? We could respond with cowardice and selfishness and the soundbyte reflexes or we could respond with courage and willingness to be mature and figure out what is best for ALL of us, not just some of us. (and for the record, I don't usually talk like this, I am way more cynical than this usually , it's so weird to see myself talking/writing like this).

Senator Obama is a talented teacher as well as his other talents -- as an educator myself I recognize his abilities. How we understand what is going on is actually very important in guilding our actions. He has the capacity to shape and encourage understandings that lead toward courageous and mature and honest action rather than reflex respond-from-fear and how we're programmed actions.

Someone in another thread here said that it seems we are at a crossroads with this choice about whether to elect Senator Obama president. I agree. I personally do not feel that the United States, with all of its ugly actions, really deserves such a leader. And yet, here he is, presenting himself and willing to do this job. I don't know how to process that, but there it is, a gift that some people recognize and some don't.

I am afraid for him. And I am afraid I am misunderstanding what is going on.

So this isn't simple for me.

But last night I was saying to someone that this speech would demonstrate something important about how he does and will respond to crisis. And it did. I was saying that agains my cynical better jugement I thought he will be able to pull off what seemed like an impossible task in the bizarre non-truth-oriented climate of this country's political discourse. And he did.

If/when everything is falling apart around us, one way or another this will happen and soon -- a leader who can do what Barack Obama is obviously capable of doing will be necessary to mitigate the worst of it and call out our humanity rather than our fear in response.

PS I used to comment anon in these discussions but on reading that this disorients people I am putting my name. Sorry for contributing to the confusion, stress, etc!

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Michelle — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:58:00 -0000

oops, correction to my above comment, bad editing and on my way to work and rushing.

My parag about the bad stuff first makes no sense. Before the bad cut and paste job I was saying that I didn't like what he said about radical Islam and that I am generally more cynical about racism and see it as foundational to the United States in a way he seems not to... BUT...

Hope that makes sense, sorry for pressing publish so hastily.

Re: Obama & Wright: Another Perspective

Michelle — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 16:56:00 -0000

@ DWS said Thu Mar 20, 08:31:00 AM 2008 re: Tim Wise

I'm going to vent a little here. I am sorry if it is tangential. It doesn't feel tangential to me but I have weird ways of understanding things so it might be

From what I know, white anti-racists including but certainly not limited to Wise have for many many years been having elaborate conferences and building organizations and getting grants and other funds and writing and saying stuff.

Tim Wise in particular has been a white man who for many years has making an actual living off of saying and writing stuff that people of color have been saying and writing. And he gets lauded because in comparison to other white people what he says has much less BS in it.

I have been thinking about this white anti-racist thing in reference to the dynamics with Senator Obama -- because of how incredibly functionally irrelevant the work of white anti-racists has been (IMO) in actually affecting the way that white people collectively comprehend reality.

Tim Wise and co will say that white people will listen better to other white people so that's why he and others should be the ones saying things (and in his case and some others, making a wage of of it).

Barack Obama spoke for himself. Other Black people from various perspectives spoke and are speaking and writing about this as is obvious here.

But so now, predictably, here comes the white anti-racist whose one claim to attention is that he is white and so (the story goes) is uniquely qualified to be heard by other white people so his words should be lauded even though nothing he says is particularly more useful analytically than what anyone else is saying. He certainly isn't uniquely insightful apart from that IMO.

What exactly has all that energy and time and conferences and discussion groups and etc etc from the white anti-racists, and all the money/resources flowing to the white anti-racists, for all these years -- what exactly has that done to actually affect the overall white comprehension they claim to be all about affecting, that's what I want to know. Because they have been taking resources and talking and writing for some time now and so far as I can see it has not had any sort of real visceral affect on white comprehension in a collective way.

And yeah I knew in this situation with Senator Obama it was only a matter of time before Tim Wise Himself would come along and write something seeking to "explain" what others have already explained, and do it on the basis that as a white person he has the ears and attention of other white people in a unique way. That's the story.

I would like to know if anyone is holding Tim and other white people who have been taking resources in the name of "educating other white people" really accountable. Instead of just lauding his words which are usually more or less accurate and predictably appear over and over and over again whenever racism comes up nationally, predictably saying what others have said, predictably "explaining" and "analyzing" issues that others have done already --

I would like to know who is holding him and other white people who have been making a living off of being professional anti-racists (as teachers hired for expertise in this area, as consultants, as speakers/writers etc) accountable for what their methods are, what their strategies are, why their work has not had more of an impact, as we can see right now in this situation?

All those words, the conferences, the words words words, the assumed "best" strategy of raising individual white awareness, after the resources that have flowed into white anti-racist "work" -- as far as I can see, it hasn't made one bit of real difference in how white people collectively actually respond to situations like this.

But Tim Wise stays on course, offering more words and more and more, defining and talking and writing and riding the story of "white people can hear other white people better." And the white anti-racist "work" will continue overall, riding on that story and not seeming to take a harsh look at itself and asking why it has not made a real impact on white collective "awareness."

Like I said above, sorry if this is a tangent, I know I'm upset about the dynamics against Senator Obama for a lot of reasons right now.

Re: Obama & Wright: Another Perspective

Michelle — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 20:10:00 -0000

DWS, none of my Tim Wise and co. frustration/venting was directed at you at all. I'm sorry if any of it went in your direction despite that. I've seen the link you posted in more than one place today. Here at this blog is where I felt like I could say/vent what I did. I'm not at all criticizing you for posting it though.

Re: Hillary And That Bosnian Sniper Fire - Great Video

Michelle — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 04:37:00 -0000

@Ms. Martin Mon Mar 24, 06:47:00 PM 2008: James Carlville has also gone crazy!

Well, you know, I don't know much about that guy but I had a moment tonight when I thought: Is he trying to tell the truth really baldly out loud while pretending not to? In other words: with that outrageous Judas/loyalty thing, and his refusal to back down, he is to my ears saying something really extreme about the Clintons' worldview and practice -- I can't quite get it into words but what I get from it viscerally is scary creepy control fanaticism with the name "loyalty" and bizarro psychological (and/or power and money based) dynamics of control and demands on others.

So I had this moment where I wondered, is this person trying to tell the truth under the guise of defending her? To be so outrageous in what he says ... that he actually says what is going on by basically casting himself as the extreme, a sort of parody? Like I said I don't know the guy at all but well, I just had this moment tonight where the surreal got a little too surreal for me to comprehend or something.

The whole thing, all the lies and weirdness and deceptions, is making my brain twist all around.

and, also @ Ms Martin, your comment Mon Mar 24, 09:26:00 PM 2008 had me nodding so hard I almost hurt my neck.

Re: A Most Thoughtful Letter From Alice Walker

Michelle — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:24:00 -0000

Whoa. I just posted a comment on another blog that included this:

1. My loyalty goes to [Obama] at a very basic level because my gut, my deepest sense, feels him as coming from some sort of real integrity/truth in some basic and unusual-for-politics way. I don't always agree with him on content but I am starting to feel like when it comes to political work, I have sometimes been distracted and disoriented by too much focus on content, like shiny glittery ideologies I am "supposed" to agree with but find myself not really *feeling.* I am starting to think that what is really important to me is basic good faith to not deceive/manipulate, even where there is disagreement on content.There are actully no words in English for what I am trying to describe but for me it is foundational in some way.

2. Even though my loyalty goes to Obama, the question still comes up, why do I care about the presidential election at all? Here is what I keep coming back to when I consider this question:

"This person

in this role

at this time"

I don't feel he will save the world. I don't feel he will save the country whatever that means. I feel:

"This person

in this role

at this time."

I wonder if I am the only person who feels this way.

And then came over here to see this posted. I don't know if what I feel is what Alice Walker is writing about, since words can mean a lot of different things and what I was trying to say is just a poor translation of something I feel in my gut without easy words for it.

But whoa. To post that then come here to read this ....

Re: Good Discussion Of Obama’s Race Speech At TPMCafe

Michelle — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:24:00 -0000

@Truthseeker: At the same time, groups of white Obama supporters are making "pilgrimages" to Trinity in an effort to "desegregate" churches.

Ugh, what?! I have no cognitive understanding of the significance of what these white Obama supporters are doing with that but reading about it just feels like ... "ugh, what?"

What is that about?

Re: Obama Gains Momentum — A Report from PA

Michelle — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 18:21:00 -0000

I've seen a few passing mentions in the news of Hillary Clinton comparing herself to Rocky now.

It took me a while to remember and even then I had to look it up ... but I am wondering is it me or is she race-baiting again?

I'm rushing so don't have time to read the whole thing but I found this article with a quick search and as I am skimming it, it seems to speak to what my gut started saying when I started thinking about what she is evoking with casting herself as Rocky:

America's great white hope?

I don't know if this is relevant but it's been annoying me some and decided to post it here...

Re: Former President Jimmy Carter Endorses Obama… Basically

Michelle — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 16:49:00 -0000

Nadra wrote: Cher was on Good Morning America a month or so ago she tried to imply that Carter thought Obama was too inexperienced.

Cher?!!

I don't know why exactly but reading that made me laugh out loud. I mean what exactly is her claim to having anything relevant to say about ... well this, of course, but pretty much anything else?

Cher. Damn. "Cher. For. Hillary." Well, then, maybe that's what Hillary means about "Obama can't win." When you have CHER in your corner, I mean really ... okay, maybe it's funny to me partly because there's this whole scenario in my head unfolding now in which Hillary Clinton announces that popular votes, caucuses, superdelegates and official party nomination is irrelevant and she has effectively WON the presidency based on the New True Gold Standard of the political process: CHER supports her. Now, that's being vetted!

Actually though, I am curious about where the overall group of Cher impersonators might stand on this. Perhaps some of them could come out in support of Obama, but then Hillary would say that only the REAL Cher counts and this is just another example of why Obama can't win.

(I am getting more and more burned out with the insanity, it probably shows)

Anyway, back in reality-land for a moment: I'll ditto Nadra: yea for Carter!

Re: More Hillary Deception On Her Iraq Record. Enough!

Michelle — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:43:00 -0000

Truthseeker and rikyrah -- thank you for your accurate comments that put into words what I feel in the pit of my stomach. Yes.

There's a New York Times magazine article from Oct 17, 2004, about GW Bush, that this pattern and discussion reminds me of. It's from a 2004 article by Ron Susskind in New York Times Magazine that I recently saw mentioned in a book.

Here's the quote:

The [Bush] aide said that guys like me [author Susskind] were ''in what we call the reality-based community,'' which he defined as people who ''believe that solutions emerge from your judicious study of discernible reality.'' I nodded and murmured something about enlightenment principles and empiricism. He cut me off. ''That's not the way the world really works anymore,'' he continued. ''We're an empire now, and when we act, we create our own reality. And while you're studying that reality -- judiciously, as you will -- we'll act again, creating other new realities, which you can study too, and that's how things will sort out. We're history's actors . . . and you, all of you, will be left to just study what we do.''

Source here

I see Hillary acting squarely in that same space of empire-fueled reality-creation. She wants to be one of these "history's actors" in creating reality as empire.

In that discussion over at The Field, the superdelegate Deb wrote in the comments about party loyalty. I've been thinking really hard about this. I didn't understand something key previous to reflecting on this.

It's not insane (by their logic) that the Democrats are allowing Hillary to do what she is doing. It is something about her representing a certain kind of acceptable power that is totally logical in this society, and that Senator Obama is challenging in a real way.

In this logic, Party leaders would test our loyalty by saying that we should vote for Clinton out of Party loyalty and if we won't, then Obama's organization is somehow suspect. But the way I see it, the actions of the Democratic Party demonstrate something about what the party is, which in turn offers information about whether or not I would vote for its candidate.

It is true that in this empire, being one of the actors in creating a false reality is a concrete goal for those who find such a goal appealing. I don't have to guess where Clinton stands on this issue -- as discussed already, it is clear from her actions that this is what she wants and this is what feels like "home" to her.

Sen. Obama, now -- I recently read Dreams From My Father and it got me thinking ... from that book and his actions in the campaign that I have observed, what I see in him is someone who enacts and displays deep understanding that reality comes from the ground up (including experience -- his own and others), not from fantasy down.

I don't really understand how people could say there's no real difference between these two candidates. To me the difference is so huge and so striking -- so visible in an in-your-face kind of way.

Re: More Hillary Deception On Her Iraq Record. Enough!

Michelle — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:49:00 -0000

Oops, a correction to the comment above: I wrote ...what I see in him is someone who enacts and displays deep understanding that reality comes from the ground up (including experience -- his own and others), not from fantasy down.

That last part is not quite right

It is more accurate to say "not from 'reality-creation' down"

Because the "reality-creation" actually works in that it affects people's lives and the world in very real ways. It's not just fantasy, it is the real dynamic and operation of this empire.

Re: JJP To Be On CNN’s Campbell Brown Blogger Panel Tues Night 8pm ET (Updated)

Michelle — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:54:00 -0000

Re: Colombia and Uribe ... I am so sorry I don't have better info on this but I am running off to work and just remember something that I don't have time to track down.

I was listening to NPR in my car. A couple of weeks ago maybe, it would have been between 1:30 and 2pm. They were intereviewing someone about Uribe and Colombia. Talking about how he had calmed the violence from the right wing (don't remember the left wing part though they discussed that too I think).

So they were talking about it and I kept thinking -- hmmm, why do I get the feeling that the way he calmed the extreme right violence was to incorporate them into his govt? And sure enough that came up and whoever was being interviewed said that this was the case.

I was so struck by this that I repeated it that night at dinner, which is part of why I remember it.

PLEASE KNOW this is just me remembering and should be confirmed before any official use :).

Wait -- a very quick google search yielded this column -- don't know how useful it is on this topic and I really don't know anything about the author and don't have time to follow the links but here:

Friends in low places

And what I am saying may not be directly relevant to the situation with Sen Obama's comments. Or it just may not come up as a topic.

But if it does ... It's just -- saying that Uribe is US's "ally" and all that seems like kind of a gloss, because US allies can be puppet dictators and/or other bad things, and if Senator Obama is calling out something real (I mean, if it's true Uribe calmed the violent right by incorporating them into his govt, what he says seems logical to me, and he is not saying that something bad is going on , but rather that it is under a cloud of suspicion) --

Something feels off to me about all this. Why is what he said "libel"? Something just feels off. On so many levels.

I wish I had more time to get into this, to read the WaPo piece etc.

Or, maybe it's not relevant and if so sorry for rambling.

Re: JJP To Be On CNN’s Campbell Brown Blogger Panel Tues Night 8pm ET (Updated)

Michelle — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:48:00 -0000

To Anonymous @Tue Apr 08, 05:25:00 PM 2008 who wrote I am a devoted reader to this blog and nor am I a troll. The reason I post my comments earlier as anonymous is because I haven't and don't know how to register to get a name like you have and really to busy to care. Don't worry about anybody giving good advice as anonymous and anyone else who posts anon for reasons like this:

You don't need to register for an account to use your name on comments. Here's what you do:

In the comment box there are several options after the Google/Blogger login. Here's the order, underneath the Google/Blogger default:

OpenID

Name/URL

Anonymous

So instead of clicking on the "Anonymous" circle like you have been, click on the Name/URL. Two text boxes come up when you do that -- top one says Name and the other says URL. Just type in your/a name in the box that says "Name." That's it. Each time.

You don't need to type in an URL (website address), either. Just a name. It is not registering or getting an account. It doesn't need a password. It just puts the name to that particular comment.

Re: Bill Clinton Is Incredible, Now Lying About Lies

Michelle — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:33:00 -0000

That wasn't always the case, but I keep finding myself asking, "was the vast right wing conspiracy right about these people being serial liars?"

I have had this exact same dynamic in myself! I remember at the time assuming they were just getting picked on, but now -- well, actually, I was going to say I'm wondering but that's not true.

I know these people are serial liars. I know it from their actions in Hillary's campaign. I see it very plain in front of me.

and @ Kat Then there was that "well, Hillary is old and it was late" comment. I mean, honestly, why does she stay with this schmuck???

I know this is harsh, but to me they seem 100% well-suited. Neither of them has a problem with lying as a mode of being in the world. I suspect they understand each other very well.

Re: Open Thread —- What’s Up?

Michelle — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 14:28:00 -0000

I hope this is an okay use of the open thread -- me and another person have just (as in today) gotten the Stories Project ready to tell other people about. Just last night I was saying I hope Jack and Jill Politics would have another open thread so I could post this. And here one is. Now, Jack and Jill Politics readers are the very first group to know about it after the two of us. I'm very glad about the timing; I have a lot of respect for the site owners and regulars here.

The site is a combination fundraiser for the Obama campaign, and collective storytelling effort (well, we hope it will be collective if other people agree to participate).

Jack and Jill Politics is my number-one favorite site for news and discussion on the campaigns. I would be very happy if people here -- site owners, regular readers and commenters -- would add your stories or otherwise get involved. And spread the word of you think it's worthwhile.

We have no idea if this project will be of interest or use to anyone but us. We hope so. But, we'll see.

Michelle (who has commented previously in a few discussions here)

http://storiesproject.wordpress.com

Re: Open Thread: Compassion Forum

Michelle — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 15:46:00 -0000

@ Ms Martin: Somebody on the HuffPo story comments segment pointed out that if she thought Gore was going to lose, she maybe shouldn't have promised all those new jobs in New York.

I remember her responding to a question about how she could create new jobs when so many were lost in New York after she promised new jobs and she stated that she thought the Dems were going to win the Whitehouse.

THANK YOU. I remember that too. It bothered me at the time for various reasons -- attempted reality-creation (it was only a "promise" to be kept if the reality she wanted came to pass), weasling out of a real criticiism & not admitting she had made an actual mistake ... And now this. %$^(%*%%$^&

Also, this may be slightly off-topic, but on the Annie Oakley thing -- a call from me out into the web-o-verse -- someone please please do the satire that is just dying to be born, about Hillary and guns and shooting and snipers and ducks. I don't know exactly what it is, can't quite see it, myself. But I feel its presence just waiting to be brought to life by someone more perceptive of it than me. Please!

Re: Wednesday Open Thread - Holla at us!!

Michelle — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 16:02:00 -0000

rikyrah Wed Apr 16, 12:40:00 AM 2008 posted a link to Bill Clinton's comments about older voters (Bill Clinton Says Older Voters too Savvy to Fall for Obama)

And then today I see this article:

Chelsea Clinton is Hillary's new weapon

Yeah, yeah, whatever. Actually, I had a co-worker in her early 30s who was pretty laid-back about the whole election thing but she said, pretty early on "Chelsea scares me!" Don't know what that was about exactly, but there it is.

(I also think it's funny that Chelsea works for a hedge fund.)

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 16:52:00 -0000

@rickyrah and TruthSeeker:

rickyrah, I saw that comment last night and it struck me as really important -- so glad you brought it over here. Thank you!

TruthSeeker, you wrote: When Barack appeared, I had an epiphany that he was the revolution, or at the very least the "last chance motel" - "50 miles to the next exit" option. These were purely intuitive feelings. As I watch everything unfold...I have a great degree of anxiety as if there is much at stake.

I have had similar -- though not exactly the same but very similar -- intuitions as you.

This feels to me for sure as a turning point, a crux point. A very strong strong feeling, that. This person in this role at this time. I don't feel it as revolution, but more as you said, last exit for 50 miles -- that feels really accurate to me.

and you wrote: I hope the the ones who are still sane will save those who have gone mad. I hope you all realize how much danger there is and that Barack is right, there is such a thing as being too late.

What I have been struggling with these last few days is coming face to face with my own very stark lack of faith and trust in this nation's people, collectively. I don't have the kind of trust and faith on this that Barack does. Not at ALL. Though I am naturally inclined to trust, I have had to learn over and over in my life that this is not the way to function in this society. Real and persistent patterns in my own experiences and observations over many years tell me not to trust the way he does.

Of course, I've never ever been able to communicate well in the language that makes the most sense to some (many?) of the groups he is communicating with.

Because of my own experiences and my own proven inability to even dip a toe into the arena he is swimming in ... I am baffled by how he has gotten to the point he is at. I see he is doing what he is doing. I see that collectively people are not rejecting him out of hand. I see how the "power that be" in this society are working to make this impossible and normally I would assume they would win because it seems they always do.

But I see that Barack is making his faith in others real as he moves through this. It baffles me. It may not hold. But I see it right in front of me, so have to acknowledge its reality. But really, I don't understand it one bit.

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 17:45:00 -0000

Here's a NYT article about recent newspaper endorsements in PA:

Breakdown:

Obama:

1. Philadelphia Daily News - 4/17 (the article says: That makes it a sweep for Mr. Obama among Pennsylvania’s major newspapers)

2. Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - 4/16

3. Patriot-News in Harrisburg - I can't find the article for the date

4. Times Tribune, based in Scranton - 4/13

Clinton:

1. Daily Pennsylvanian, the student newspaper at the University of Pennsylvania

I particularly liked this part of the Philadelphia Daily News endorsement of Sen. Obama:

THERE IS a way to match Clinton's and Obama's performances on a relatively equal playing field: their campaigns.

A candidate's campaign may be the best indicator of how she or he will govern. If so, an Obama administration would be well-managed, inclusive and astonishingly broad-based. It would make good use of technology and communicate a message of unity and, yes, hope.

It would not be content with eking out slim victories by playing to the narrow interests of the swing voters of the moment while leaving the rest of the country as deeply divided as ever. Instead, an Obama administration would seek to expand the number of Americans who believe that they have a personal stake in our collective future - and that they have the power to change things.

And this line which echoes a discussion that was here at Jack and Jill not long ago:

He would adjust his views to reality rather than trying to adjust reality to his views.

Exactly.

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 18:47:00 -0000

@ s and your questions about He would adjust his views to reality rather than trying to adjust reality to his views.

I myself can't answer your questions specifically because they are hypothetical and I have no actual information on what is going on because it is not going on. Not saying others won't have something to say - just that I myself don't do well with hypotheticals.

But, in case it is relevant somehow, here is what I can say on this (sorry it turned out so freaking long):

What I know is what I have already observed of his actions in the campaign -- patterns emerging from that. And also from what I see in reading Dreams from My Father, which underscores for me the strength of those patterns.

There are two different approaches to knowledge and action that I feel as relevant here.

One, deductive, starts with a tightly controlled theory with artificially limited and controlled parameters for "testing" the theory.

While there may be good uses for this approach (and I am sure I over-simplified the description, because it is not how I think), it unfortunately can feed into a much more dangerous way of approach things, that of imperial "reality-creation" as discussed in a previous thread on this site.

In contrast, the other approach to knowing and action, inductive, builds understanding from the ground up -- experience, interaction, noticing what is going on before making concepts and theories about it. This approach defers to experience and ground-up reality if there is a clash between experience/ground-up reality on one hand, and concept/theory/ theory-based plans on the other.

This inductive approach allows for all sorts of complexity and even ambiguity as the process unfolds to reveal patterns and concepts to guide action.

In my experience, the inductive approach is less common in our society than deductive and its sinister cousin, reality-creation. Maybe because inductive does not rely heavily on control and so it can feel scary to people who don't take to it naturally. I don't know. I don't understand why it freaks people out sometimes, but have seen that it can and does.

Anyway. From what I have seen, Senator Obama pretty consistently demonstrates inductive reasoning and action. He is responsive to what is going on and able to take in the full context of it. He has a very high tolerance for the complexity and patches of ambiguity that are part of ground-up understanding and action.

The one place where I don't know if he is inductive is his faith in the nation.

But it is entirely possible that this, too, is inductive in his experience -- my experience is just different so I have no way to comprehend where he's coming from. But I am observing that something other than what my experience tells me should be true is actually happening -- an inductive approach means I have to take that in even though it challenges my understanding of the world.

I don't know what he will do in the future, but after observing how he approaches things, I have a high level of trust in his ability to adjust and re-adjust to what is actually going on in its full context and complexity.

I don't agree with some of his policy stances. But while I may not always agree with where he comes out at a given point in time, I deeply trust the integrity of how he gets there. I also know from what I have already seen that that his is a process of action and understanding that is not rigid or stopped artificially in one place.

Re: Philly Debate Open Thread

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 19:14:00 -0000

@ TruthSeeker: I give a damn! I'd love to know about your idea.

I can't promise in advance that I would be involved; I'm needing to be very careful and deliberately grounded in deciding what I do and don't do in relation to all this. But I have tons of respect for your intuition and I would love the opportunity to know what you're thinking about ... and get involved if it is right for me to do.

I hope you post about it! (or email it to me at storiesproject at mindspring dot com if you don't post? But hopefully you will post it)

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 20:01:00 -0000

Hi s, in my view you're just taking and using the word inductive without getting the actual process and concept I am describing. In other words, IMO you aren't approaching this or assessing this based on the inductive/deductive categories that I described.

Seems to me you have other standards of assessment that just aren't using the same categories as what I was saying. Mapping your standards onto my words doesn't make any sense to me & won't lead to a useful discussion between us.

So, I am really sorry if I muddied up the discussion you want to have with my response -- and I may have done that.

Hopefully others on the site will be better at engaging your questions on your terms if that is what people see as valuable to do.

Re: Back To Philly

Michelle — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 16:48:00 -0000

Wow, those photos in the slideshow, Texas Girl in L.A., thanks for posting that.

The one that got to me the most was #11 -- when I heard about the rally and saw a few pictures last night, I unconsciously filled in a detail that wasn't there: I pictured him up an elevated stage at the front.

Then I see this picture here

and this one

And see how he is basically surrounded by all those beautiful people. And in the first one I linked, I can see how he is standing on this teeny tiny little barely raised platform .... yeah I see the Secret Service suits and all (glad they're there), but this physically embodied trust and lack of distance moves me.

*goes off to make another donation from my family* (well, we were planning to donate again this weekend anyway, but now I get to do it with these images in my eyes)

Re: Daily Open Thread- Greetings to a New Week

Michelle — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 04:36:00 -0000

I am feeling pretty freaked out by Hillary Clinton's "obliterate Iran" statements. Hard to articulate. I just put a couple links and images about how I feel this here (one link on top of the pictures and one underneath them):

Liar Liar WORLD ON FIRE

I can't stand Hillary Clinton -- cannot STAND her very deeply -- but today is the first time I had to fight off physical adrenaline type panic when considering any possibility of her becoming president.

Re: Daily Open Thread- Greetings to a New Week

Michelle — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 05:24:00 -0000

And, before I go to sleep:

The Clinton campaign signaled Monday that it would not be shy in arguing that nominating Obama would risk alienating certain white voters. In a conference call with reporters, campaign pollster Geoff Garin spoke in blunt terms about how the racial divide in Democratic contests -- with working-class whites clearly preferring Clinton over Obama -- makes her a stronger general election candidate.

"The Obama campaign has simply not done a very effective job connecting with blue-collar and middle-income voters, and they are the heart and soul of the Democratic Party," Garin said. He added later that Obama's "appeal among white voters typically has been among the people who are the most affluent" and best educated. It is unusual for the campaign to talk so directly about racial divisions among Democratic voters.

Quote source, context and more spin and maybe (?) info in the article:

What to look for in the Pennsylvania primary

Re: Daily Open Thread- Greetings to a New Week

Michelle — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:21:00 -0000

TruthSeeker wrote: Obama has always bet on the American people, that they would be tired enough of the lies and ready for freedom. If they succumb to the emotional buttons and fear- mongering then maybe they're not ready....maybe they need to reach rock bottom first.

I don't know why exactly but apparently I needed to read just exactly that truth to settle and ground my fury right now. Thank you.

And Craig Hickman, yeah the Nixon/Clinton campaign has stirred this up for sure. That doesn't make it any less real, the way I see it. IMO Clintons are an embodiment of something real in the collective of "American people" and particularly the collective of white people. Not deviations, but part of the whole. Playing a role in the bigger picture and I guess we'll see if Senator Obama's bet on the people is correctly timed.

Re: Pennsylvania - She Won..oh well, onto Indiana and North Carolina

Michelle — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 02:02:00 -0000

I feel that from some angles, it is an illusion that Senators Obama and Clinton are on the same side at all.

Way I've been thinking about/feeling it all day is: say you have a being that survives in a certain way. Something comes along, gets inside it, that might (and I do mean might, it's a risk factor) threaten its survival, that is, as it (insanely) defines survival. It responds by internally fighting back. It mobilizes all sorts of defenses to try to prevent the threat from having an impact.

Hillary Clinton's campaign is part of that defense system. And these kinds of situations don't end with the defense operations just shrugging and stepping back with a smile. Their purpose is to do the job of defending the thing. It is metaphorically hard-wired into them, that is their role.

Of course, from a bigger-picture angle of vision, the thing that Clinton is defending is itself a form of sickness (some might even call it a kind of cancer) that deeply threatens the well-being and survival of a larger whole. That situation is obvious to me and not just from this presidential race.

Re: This spoke to me…so, I bring it to you

Michelle — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 04:36:00 -0000

Wow, I'm really honored to see that comment from The Field posted here at Jack and Jill, which I respect so much. And of course the discussion here takes it to deeper levels -- discussions here at this blog usually do. (I'm the same Michelle who reads here regularly and sometimes comments BTW).

I am so grateful to everyone for this discussion being here. Thank you all so much.

The more I get into where I'm at right now at this particular point in time, and also thinking about what people are writing here .... the more I find my attention focused on the Democratic Party and its leadership. Even more than the Clintons and even more than the media, and certainly more so than "the white we mean um 'regular' blue collar voters."

JJ said, I knew there was no getting this race done with not just because of Hillary but because the party elders, superdelegates and DNC didn't want to.

Part of it is fear of the CLintons but the BULK of it is they want this Black guy to "prove" himself. I've said on any number of occasions if Obama was white he would hav elocked this thing up a long time ago.

I keep trying to console myself with "the numbers" and "he'll win the nomination eventually" but it isn't working for me.

The whole thing is making me sick at a deep level and this such a huge part of why.

Here there is this amazing quality leader who is stepping up and saying he is willing to take on this intense job at a very very difficult time. And, he is willing to do it under the banner of the Democratic Party.

And at the same time there is this obviously corrupt person who wants to be president for the power, to be one of "history's (imperial) actors" -- creating reality, as discussed in an earlier thread here -- and she is attacking as she is.

And to me the sane response to this kind of situation from the Democratic Party should be to not only actively have the back of this high quality leader, but also at the same time to step up and say to Hillary Clinton, as loudly and publicly as need be, with no confusion about it at all: "What you are doing is over the line, it is not acceptable to us, and you can't do this and be part of our party. Period."

But no. Instead it is this dynamic of supporting her white privilege and of "prove it to us Black guy."

And in this white supremacist logic, it also somehow becomes valuable to have Ms. Hillary on the attack against someone in her own party.

It toughens Senator Obama up, does it? Bull. Shit. To me it seems that if his own party had his back and was doing the right thing to start with, this kind of nonsense would not be necessary for a minute. Offer him the resources of the party and assist him that way, okay?

Here's how I get in situations like this, it's always the same for me: I always want so much to flip the dynamic on its head. So now I am internally personally tired of accepting the power dynamic of "suck up to the superdelegates" and "hope the Democratic Party does the right thing."

But as I see it, the Democratic Party leadership should be freaking grateful that someone with Senator Obama's skills and abilities and ethos is willing to run for president under their party's not-necessarily-deserving banner. They should be grateful and they should back that up with action in support of what he is doing and where he is going.

Instead they are letting him do all the heavy lifting while they sit back and judge his worth and act like they would be doing him a favor to grant him their special nomination.

And if he does get the nomination and if he does become the president, the Democratic Party gets the credit (look a Democrat is now president) without having to do the work to make it there, and in fact having made the work so much harder than it had to be and should have been.

Tomorrow, I'll find the DNC email addresses and send that comment to them as Felicia said I should (I'm just going to google it so if anyone has better info please post the email here and I'll use/add that). But you know, I really don't have faith that they will care. Because I think they have been running this power dynamic all along. Anyway, if I get any sort of answer I'll post it in a comment here.

But where my attention goes is with wanting so bad to flip the dynamic (even if I don't know if its possible that is what I end up yearning for in situations like this). I want Democratic Party leadership etc to be under active scrutiny and actively judged by the people it is currently failing in a way that puts it on trial.

As I see it, it is failing tests left and right in this campaign season. It is failing to proving itself worthy of what it will get if Senator Obama is president under its banner, and it needs to do better.

What leverage is there for this, I don't know because I am terrible at movement strategy, always have been.

Anon @ 05:29:00 & Ms. Martin @ 06:14:00, I'm reminded of what you're saying as I write this.

Re: Flipping the Script: WHY Can’t Hillary ‘ Tonya Harding’ Clinton CLOSE THE DEAL?

Michelle — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:53:00 -0000

@Angela re Yahoo News "Should Obama Play Rougher" article:

Well, yes. But in this situation she so accurately describes, I want to know what will and should the DEMOCRATIC PARTY do to support this high quality candidate who is publicly facing the gendered racism of "is he an angry Black male."

What should the PARTY do instead of leaving him to fend for himself against one of their own, for crying out loud. "Prove yourself to everyone in the Party and the nation, Senator Obama, while we, uncommitted, just watch to see if you can do it."

Why has the Democratic Party not *denounced and rejected* Hillary Clinton -- words, actions, overall tactics? Why has the Democratic Party leadership not stepped out and said it is not on the same side as the GOP

(Sorry I know this is redundant, I'm single note right now)

Re: Sean Bell’s Killers ACQUITTED

Michelle — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:48:00 -0000

Oh no. Dammit.

Re: Daily Open Thread - TGIF

Michelle — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 16:43:00 -0000

terrorize other countries (Hamas) or swear the destruction of other nations (Iran)

Oh no. No. I can't not say something about this one.

Israel -- a place where I supposedly have "right of return" as a Jewish-ancestry person, assuming they got over the "not if you're gay" part which I have heard they have -- is in my eyes an illegitimate nation-state. Because a European Christian colonial power "gave" this state to European Jews in the context of Europe terrorizing us for centuries and dominating the Middle East during a particular time period where we could be used by Western Christian nations for their purpose (and we agreed, I'm sorry to say).

For whatever reason, whether it was that we had become more European than anything else, or because of the context of being terrorized by European Christians and wanting to be on the side of powerful ones even though they had hurt us so much -- the state of Israel has made a terrible bargain with the very type of powers that have hurt Jews in the past. Israel functions as a Western and US proxy in the Middle East. Like the US, it acts like a terrorist.

My own memory is long. I understand that the fear and reaction to being terrorized by European Christians has, for some European-ancestry Jews at least, been channeled into fear of *the Arabs.* And then a struggle created by actual takeover of land in a colonial context gives apparent reality to this threat that becomes justification for more violence against the very people who have been wronged (but they're less than human, right? I've heard that before).

And this redirection pushes the current struggle outside of current and historical reality for some of us ... and into a fake landscape where Hamas is a terrorist attacking Israel, Israel has a temporary mantle of "not a threat" in the Western Christian eyes, and some of us might look to white Christians like Hillary Clinton to "protect" us (I know her kind and she would be happy to hurt us if it helped her aspirations). And it's just fine to take people's lands and homes and hurt them and if they have the audacity to *object* to this and even fight back well then they are terrorists and bad.

I see the flow of this illusion and it upsets me for a lot of reasons. Including the fact that it lets European Christian nations and their cultural offspring (the US) totally off the hook because all of a sudden European/white Christian nation-states are supposed to be our friends (despite their ongoing terrorist acts against us over and over throughout Europe for centuries).

If (and I do mean IF because frankly I don't see much of it so far) Senator Obama is willing to speak about and treat Hamas and others like actual humans instead of cardboard cut-outs and symbolic lightening rods for various kinds of fear and guilt and projection -- I support him doing that. In fact I wish he would do more of that, because he hasn't near done enough about this and has in some ways evaded the situation.

So if I have any criticism of him on this it's that he hasn't done enough. And still he gets criticized and held to the usual impossible standards in which he is suspect by default.

And about the Middle East: it makes me sick when people in power talk about hurting other nations implicitly or explicitly on "my" behalf. The dynamics are complex. I know in my bones that the very same ones who claim, in their white Christian benevolence, to be about helping and protecting Israel (functioning symbolically as "the Jews") by hurting other peoples and nations will, if and when the time comes, happily let it function as the scapegoat and let "the Jews" take the rap for all of the horrors that Western Christian nations are doing supposedly to help us.

Lots of illusion to cut through. Lots and lots. Senator Obama hasn't done near enough on this, in fact he has said things that IMO perpertuate the illusion (the one part of his race speech that made me cringe was the part about radical Islam).

But despite his actual stance, he STILL gets hit with associations with supposed "terrorists." It's part of the same pattern. Ugh.

Re: Daily Open Thread - TGIF

Michelle — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 18:47:00 -0000

Craig Hickman, thank you so much for what you wrote about your friend and his family and what you heard them talking about. I can't even find words to say what it means to me to know that. Thank you is the best I've got and it's not nearly sufficient.

Re: Ok, Obama Did His Press Conference. Let’s Call Up Catholics, Clinton and McCain

Michelle — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 22:13:00 -0000

The thing that's getting to me overall about this is that some people are so stuck in their own expectations and projections of/about Senator Obama that they don't take him for what he actually is.

I have had some confusion about this myself at times. So I have been reading The Audacity of Hope and trying to really see where he is coming from. It's hard for me because it's not where I am coming from. But I have to respect him for having integrity. It is driving me nuts to see anyone saying Senator Obama did what he did because of political expediency right now. This is who he is. Maybe that diverges from some expectations of who he is, but from everything I can tell, the press conference today was about standing solid in who he is and what he believes.

And he was speaking this out loud when he said:

I have spent my entire adult life trying to bridge the gap between different kinds of people. That's in my DNA, trying to promote mutual understanding to insist that we all share common hopes and common dreams as Americans and as human beings. That's who I am. That's what I believe. That's what this campaign has been about.

and when he said:

But what I do want him to be very clear about, as well as all of you and the American people, is that when I say I find these comments appalling, I mean it. It contradicts everything that I'm about and who I am.

And anybody who has worked with me, who knows my life, who has read my books, who has seen what this campaign's about, I think, will understand that it is completely opposed to what I stand for and where I want to take this country.

and at other times during the press conference too.

I don't mind anyone disagreeing with where Senator Obama is coming from. I disagree with that in some ways myself. But I support him because his words and actions align. I don't say this lightly. Seems to me that when people have expectations of him based on their projections of him, he is very likely to disappoint. But he is who he is and that's totally 100% obvious to me now that I am focusing my attention on it. And yes I disagree with him in some ways, I do -- it's seared into me to not see/feel the world as he does. But that is me and he is him (and I am not running for president).

Re: SuperDelegate Joe Andrew Switches from Clinton to Obama

Michelle — Thu, 01 May 2008 17:28:00 -0000

Joe Andrew's letter is so excellent. Just so excellent.

His action is the kind of leadership I myself want to see from the Democratic Party. Bravo, Mr. Andrew. May the rest of your party leadership step up to the standard of integrity and honesty you have just set.

Re: Thursday Open Thread- One more day til the weekend

Michelle — Thu, 01 May 2008 18:52:00 -0000

I got this info from the comments section at The Field:

Iran complains to UN about Clinton's 'provocative' remarks

Got to that link from thepage.time.com, here

PS Truthseeker, thanks, I really could have done without this image in my head: Or Bill Clinton's quivering, flabby thighs while he took sexual advantage of Monica. The eyes of my imagination hurt now. Ow.

Re: Thursday Open Thread- One more day til the weekend

Michelle — Thu, 01 May 2008 21:15:00 -0000

I wonder what people here at Jack and Jill think of the perspective in this essay:

Black Kos, Sistah Speak on Rev. Wright

Here's an excerpt: I keep wondering if in his actions, Wright wasn’t giving Obama what he needed to move forward. Jeremiah is not a stupid man. I do not believe he is jealous of Obama. I do not believe he is a narcissist. The narcissists get the million dollar home as soon as the church can afford it. They don’t put the church’s money into programs.

I’m sure I saw something in Jeremiah’s eyes.

I do not believe for one moment he needs attention. When you have a church for as long as he, attention is something you get plenty of. One day I’ll tell you how I know.

No, what I believe he intended to do was take the attention and shape it to Obama’s need. This he did. He said over a year ago that Obama would need to distance himself from him. Since Obama couldn’t bring himself to do it, Wright did it for him.

Anyway to read the whole thing, go here.

(I don't know what to think about it. If true, it would explain something I have found puzzling in my own reaction to the whole thing. But really I don't know what to think about it. Of course I haven't actually seen that Q&A.; I have read comments on it and take descriptions from rikyrah and others in that vein as accurate. I did read the Moyers interview transcript)

Re: Thursday Open Thread- One more day til the weekend

Michelle — Fri, 02 May 2008 04:05:00 -0000

rikyrah and Craig, thank you for the replies. So much hurt in this.

I want to believe what that essay says, but am still confused about WTF is going on, and will probably will stay that way for a while.

Re: Big Media Finally Writes About What Black Folk Will Do If Clinton Steals The Nomination

Michelle — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:18:00 -0000

@ B-Serious Might I remind Ms. Finney that this same option also applies to all of those working class white voters everyone keeps talking about. Yet no one's telling them to just suck it up and fall in line.

EXACTLY!

Right there. Just exactly.

Thank you.

Re: Operation Anti-Chaos: The Narrative on ‘ White Voters’ is FICTION

Michelle — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:25:00 -0000

Al wrote: Don’t let yourself get upset when some idiot repeats the false media narrative. Don’t plead with them to tell the truth (they won’t; remember, they’re either stupid or dishonest). Mock them. Ridicule them. Expose them as the lightweights they are showing themselves to be, with all the confidence that understanding the hard data ought to provide you.

Hey! Anyone want to work on putting up a satire site about this with me? We could do it on wordpress.com for free -- you can set those up as static sites, not just blogs. Very easy to do.

I don't have any ideas right this moment on content but I love doing satire and think it could be fun and possibly useful, if one or more other people would be interested in colluding -- I mean collaborating -- I mean you know.

Email me at storiesproject at mindspring dot com if you want to work on this.

I don't have any ideas right this moment on content but I love doing satire and think it could be fun and possibly useful, if one or more other people would be interested in colluding -- I mean collaborating -- I mean you know.

Email me at storiesproject at mindspring dot com if you want to work on this.

And rikyrah, this is a fantastic post, my first useful news of the day online. Thanks.

Re: Operation Anti-Chaos: The Narrative on ‘ White Voters’ is FICTION

Michelle — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:27:00 -0000

Oops, didn't mean to have my email address twice in that previous comment. Don't worry, I am not an info-mercial.

Re: Funny Sundays: Detroit Councilwoman Conyers Gets "Schooled"

Michelle — Sun, 04 May 2008 23:17:00 -0000

Re the gun ad:

1. The gaffe with the non-existent in that direction and otherwise $2,200 European gun is really funny.

2. But the positioning of the gun and Senator Obama's picture is so freaking NOT.

3. Did anyone else notice this line from the article: The Mauser 66 ... is a high-end hunting rifle that found military use as a sniper rifle

We all know: Hillary Knows From Snipers Oh Yes She Does.

4. But seriously that shit with the gun basically pointing at Senator Obama is chilling to me.

Re: Funny Sundays: Detroit Councilwoman Conyers Gets "Schooled"

Michelle — Sun, 04 May 2008 23:52:00 -0000

Apologies if someone else has posted this elsewhere ... Robert Reich addresses Ms. Hillary's latest comment on the gas tax: When asked this morning by ABC News' George Stephanopoulos if she could name a single economist who backs her call for a gas tax holiday this summer, HRC said "I'm not going to put my lot in with economists.”

Full post:

Hillary Clinton Doesn't Listen to Economists

Re: Monday Open Thread - It’s a New Week!

Michelle — Mon, 05 May 2008 15:27:00 -0000

Two links:

-Indiana Voter purges?

I don't have time to look into this right now, but just got it in my email and thought I would post it here for others who might be able to:

T5-4-08: One million purged - The Incredible Disappearing Indiana Voter Rolls

-And a funny:

Obama Proposes Gas-bag Holiday: Prominent Gas-bags Oppose Plan

Re: Election Thread…Obama Wins North Carolina

Michelle — Tue, 06 May 2008 22:32:00 -0000

This is why Black folks are coming out in support of Obama.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/05/06/brazile-and-begala-angril_n_100500.html

Let Begala know exactly where he can go.

Eggheads unite. Vote Obama.

Re: Clinton’s Race-Baiting Continues

Michelle — Thu, 08 May 2008 15:12:00 -0000

Last night, I emailed Nancy Pelosi and also sent a message through the democrats.org website about this newest in the line of ugly -- quoting this comment and asking when they are just plain going to step up and say that what Clinton is doing is not what the Democratic Party stands for (frankly I am much more cynical than this and feel that their lack of denouncing and rejecting Clinton says with action that what she is doing is enough of what the party is about that they are allowing this to continue. Not surprising, seeing as how this country is well ... built on racism and they are one of the two major political parties in it)

But still. Such hypocrisy that they have all these groups of people under the "People" menu on their site, and when you click on African-American for example it's all about the GOP's badness. But their own (yes, their OWN til they publicly officially as a party disown her) resident blatant racist candidate? Standards are diferent for her, see.

All that focus on how Senator Obama should denounce and reject various people -- why isn't the Democratic Party publicly and collectively denouncing and rejecting Hillary Clinton's actions, words and tactics?

PS the comment from dday: Shorter Clinton: If we were still operating under the Constitution's 3/5 compromise, I'd be the nominee!

This exact thing came up during dinner at my house the other night.

Re: Clinton Makes Case For WHITE Appeal

Michelle — Fri, 09 May 2008 00:25:00 -0000

My girlfriend and I had a long dinner conversation that yielded an email to five Democratic party people that I’m going to post here as well. One thing that we were talking about is that the tendency to blur the line between supporting Obama and repudiating Clinton is not necessarily useful when it comes to clarity. Anyway, here’s the email we sent:

“Dear Mr. Andrew, President Carter, Rep. Grijalva, Gov. Napolitano, and Gov. Richardson:

We’ve been following the ongoing presidential primary races and are deeply distressed and hurt by the divisive, racist and morally reprehensible words and actions of Senator Clinton.

We are writing to the five of you with our concerns because of the Democratic Party leaders/elders we’re aware of, you seem most likely to understand what we want to communicate. Please feel free to share this message with anyone else you feel would understand or should see it.

Although we hope that Senator Obama becomes the Party nominee, that is not our focus here. Our distress and concern is much more basic. We want to know if Senator Clinton’s racist and divisive approach (including her recent USA Today interview comments) is consistent with the moral values of the Democratic Party.

In our view, Senator Clinton’s divisiveness and clear devaluation of voters who aren’t white raises core questions about her fitness and acceptability as a very public face of the Democratic Party. And she is a very public face of the Democratic Party right now, even though she is not the official nominee.

We are distressed and concerned that the Democratic Party has not clearly, unequivocally and publicly denounced and rejected her statements in both word and action.

We feel that the Democratic Party now has a deep moral obligation apart from the political maneuverings related to the nomination, and apart from the necessary work of supporting Senator Obama. Again, this is more basic than all that. What Senator Clinton is doing in promoting divisiveness and racism hurts. It is horrific and painful and it actually hurts. As long as the Democratic Party does not publicly repudiate and act against what she is saying and doing, it is telling us and the rest of this country that her actions are in fact acceptable within the Party’s value system.

So please. We really need see the Democratic Party communicate clearly and directly that Senator Clinton has crossed the line of acceptable behavior for a Democratic Party leader.

We really need to see the Democratic Party step up and tell us and the rest of the country that it does not condone or stand for this kind of divisive and racist practice.

And we really need to see the Democratic Party back its words up with action that shows us in no uncertain terms that it does not condone racism, even and especially when it comes from a Party leader.

We trust that you understand our distress and concern. Please do whatever you can. Please.

Sincerely,

[me and my girlfriend]“

PS I also posted this over at The Field

Re: James Clyburn -Trying to be the Canary in the Mine

Michelle — Fri, 09 May 2008 23:29:00 -0000

Ha! That "psycho ex-girlfriend" thing is funny, rikyrah!

Re: Through The Looking Glass…….

Michelle — Sat, 10 May 2008 16:23:00 -0000

KRK, that's an interesting article from McClatchy.

What struck me most is -- if a fiercely anti-Obama retired CIA operative worked hard to assemble a dossier on Obama and that's all her came up with .... that's great news.

I myself feel like people who believe that kind of stuff are already not going to vote for him or ANY Democrat.

PS looks like the trolls are out in extra-special force these days. Attempting to create reality, anyone?

Re: Through The Looking Glass…….

Michelle — Sat, 10 May 2008 16:26:00 -0000

It took Jon Stewart to frame the issue through a comic lens, but he was dead serious when he said let's cut through all the mess and get to the core: "Are you going to enslave the white race?"

Craig, yeah I saw that too, that's exactly it IMO. I've generally found Jon Stewart to be ferociously deeply intelligent in what he does and that is not an exception.

Re: Sidney Blumenthal Was There.

Michelle — Mon, 12 May 2008 15:05:00 -0000

Regardless of him not actually working for Clinton like his dad -- is Max actually pro-Clinton, for sure? I would not have guessed that. This is not from what you're posting (and I don't have video capacity) but I've met him briefly a couple of times. Just intuition.

Whether or not he supports Clinton, I would guess that his concern about race and racism might also come from his own journalistic "expertise" on the issue -- like, I saw him do a talk once on white supremacy in the anti-immigrant movement ranks.

I say expertise in quotes because I an kind of grossed out when other white people come at the Obama thing from a "Obama as race traiter" approach because it feels off to me in most cases -- feels like a detached pose, a weird intellectual attempt at expert radicalism, or something like that. And it may not matter if Max is coming from there or a pro-Clinton approach if that's what he's saying.

It's just really weird to think he might be a Clinton supporter. I knew about his father (who I haven't met) but I didn't assume it translated to Max.

(Also, as of right now, your post title names his father, not him)

Re: Give Me Strength…

Michelle — Tue, 13 May 2008 15:53:00 -0000

Racism: "If I can't see it (or claim I can't see it) it's your problem. Because I'm white and I said so that's why."

Besides which, everyone knows that Marietta in Cobb County Georgia certainly doesn't have any racism!

Re: Wednesday Open Thread - Speak your mind

Michelle — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:20:00 -0000

Craig wrote: Hillary Rodham Nixon is running for a spot on John McCain's ticket.

It seems like a good fit for her actions (and her approach to policy) and I have thought about this too. But -- if she does that, then it seems to me that all the Democrats/Obama would have to do is run an intense ad campaign with clips of her promising to work so hard for the Democratic nominee and have some voice over about how she will promise anything but then do the opposite, and how voters can't trust what she promises.

And in general, seems to me that if she moves over to the Repub side, the "making nice" gloves can come right off. It's not Obama at that point it's the whole party. Obama can't beat on her but the party maybe can. But it won't do that as long as she remains in the fold. Once she moves out of it .... I would guess all the withheld stuff will come flooding out.

Of course, I could be wrong. Overall I tend to vastly overestimate the outrage at bald-faced lies and betrayals in this culture.

Re: Hillary As The Dead Parrot From Monty Python. Funny. Sad

Michelle — Wed, 14 May 2008 15:34:00 -0000

I have always been particularly creeped out by her "pointing and waving" schtick because it seems so fake and gross. So I especially appreciated the part about how she pretended to see an old friend to point and wave to but it was an aide she had been talking to. It also makes me kind of cringe on her behalf - pathetic. Just pathetic.

Anyway, the use of the Dead Parrot skit is inspired. I love this!

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 15 May 2008 17:02:00 -0000

I really appreciate the critical discussion of John Edwards.

I am starting to think that maybe Clinton and Edwards are playing some version of that typical game among white people seeking to preserve something of the status quo: good cop/bad cop. I hope I'm wrong about this, but that's the sense I'm starting to get.

(And I don't know that they have overtly coordinated with each other on this -- possibly not -- it's just that it's a dynamic that is familiar and easy for white people to slide into in certain situations.)

I am glad that Edwards did what he did and glad of the timing. Though of course it was only useful like that because Clinton has used racism like she does, and the relative passivity of the Democratic Party all along in the face of it -- so it created a situation that then needed addressing and made Edwards look so useful and good.

My gut just doesn't like John Edwards and felt a sort of deception in his "ensorsement." Which isn't to say it's not useful -- clearly, politically, it is. But still, I feel he acts from self-serving motives and is not to be trusted no matter what he does. I particularly appreciate bpm/Truthseeker's discussion of his body language.

I would not like him as VP, for exactly the reasons bpm talks about. And I question the VP talk in case it is acceptable mainly because of a good cop/bad cop dynamic.

Though I also agree w/ anon @ 7:48 that One thing I've noticed about Obama is he is a quick study and very observant. I'm quite sure he saw Edwards' assholery last night, knows that he's just a bandwagon jumper and is figuring out what to do with him. Funny thing about Obama, most people think he is a very weak guy, easily led by Rev. Wright, Michelle etc. but dude is always laying back in the cut, watching and then he pulls a slick move.

And I appreciate that bpm pointed out that happening in the 6:11 am comment. I don't think Senator Obama misses much.

Re: Monday Open Thread - What’s Going On?

Michelle — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:44:00 -0000

This whole Clinton/feminism/sexism thing (B-Serious's NYT article link from the Portland rally discussion) has been on my mind a lot lately.

I got sort of caught up this weekend in the discussions at the NARAL blog -- not the initial long thread but a couple of more recent ones. That is some crazy stuff over there!

It's weird to have Clinton-supporting women claiming "women" should support other "women" -- who then go ballistic nasty clearly not respecting the basic humanity and intelligence of any actual woman who doesn't agree with them.

If we don't agree it's because we don't see it like they do -- according to one Clinton supporter, I was in fact insulted by NARAL's decision even if I say I wasn't, because "all women" were insulted and if I say not me, it's because I don't know when I have been insulted.

The push-back against any discussion of white feminist racism is the most overt shit I have seen, and I have seen a lot of push-back when white feminist racism comes up. But in my experience it's usually more subtle or covert than what I see over there. Maybe it's just the situations I travel in or something.

One other poster -- who assumed I was a woman of color simply because I was agreeing with what a black woman had posted (and then gotten attacked for) and myself talking about white feminist racism -- literally told me to "sit down and shut up" (I think there was a fuck in there too but not 100% sure and don't want to re-read it to find out).

And I am really struck by this thing about loyalty & betrayal. I know it's a Clinton thing but I think it's not just that when it comes to the white feminist outcries. One of the commenters over at the NARAL discussion actually used the phrase "traitor to the cause" for those who don't agree with her/support Clinton. (I remember even NY NOW saying this about Ted Kennedy that he had betrayed women or the women's movement or something like that, when he endorsed Senator Obama).

I'm trying to understand WTF specifically this is all about.

I just wrote out some of what I'm thinking, with the idea that I would post it here in this comments section, but I saw rikyrah's comment to b-serious (Mon May 19, 09:24:00 AM 2008) and decided to not post it in case it's un-strategic to publicly say the things that are on my mind about this right now (it's pretty harsh).

And now I see this today:

Geraldine Ferraro, calling Barack Obama "sexist," may not back him

I am extremely extremely hungry to read good sharp pull no punches analyses of this whole white feminists going off about sexism thing as it is coming up now and linked back through the whole campaign.

And my own thoughts about all this are -- well, as I said, pretty harsh and rikyrah's comment gives me pause about posting them right now.

Re: Monday Open Thread - What’s Going On?

Michelle — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:11:00 -0000

Setare, thanks for that link -- it is pretty good!

Craig, I can't wait to read what you have to say when you open up that lockbox. Between you and rikyrah and anyone else from the JJP crowd saving up -- something to hang onto when I read the crap in the mainstream about "women" voters and all.

Re: Tuesday Open Thread: Hi Everybody

Michelle — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:33:00 -0000

Re: B-Serious's Washington Post link:

Oh for crying out loud.

This raises my desire to call down a fiery truth goddess to "work with" Ms. Hillary so that she is less of an insult to humanity.

Of course I have never ever been able to call down said goddess (ooooh, if I could, ooooh) and don't even know if such a being exists. My desire to call on her now and ask her to go to Ms. Hillary remains however.

This is what I am reduced to right now.

WHEN CAN PEOPLE REALLY LET GO WITH THE ANALYSES being held back now? WHEN? argh! (I do support being strategic about this. I really seriously truly and sincerely do. I'm just frustrated beyond words to see this heinous deceptive nasty-ness and feel like chewing off my arm when I see shit like this)

Re: Hillary Clinton LIES - SHE IS NOT AHEAD IN THE POPULAR VOTE

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:19:00 -0000

smoothie (Wed May 21, 08:09:00 PM) wrote: If Hillary is denied, she's taking a large chunk of women who say there not only not voting for Barack, but there writing the party off as well.

I really strongly question this. I question it on two bases:

1. Large chunk

2. Women

Second one first: IMO the "women" thing is largely an illusion fueled by a particular kind of white feminism that is (ok, I'm going to say it now) white race loyalty naming itself feminism. Most -- not all unfortunately but most -- of the "women" who are into this feminism-white-race-loyalty are white. These are people who probably don't think of themselves as white supremacists or white race loyalists. They often cloak it for themselves and for others, though I myself believe that even those who don't know it upfront know it deep down anyway.

So it is not about women as a group. It is not. It is about white people enacting white race loyalty. The women ones in this group are saying it's about feminism and sexism -- that's actually not true, that's cover. The men ones in this group are among the people Ms. Hillary pandered to in the W Va and KY primaries. Same thing different twist.

Then -- about "large chunk" of women. I highly doubt this. They are loud as hell, that's for sure. White supremacy in this society sure amplifies what they have to say. The lie that this is "women" (51% of the population) instead of a group of mostly white race loyalists is bolstered by a long history of a particular kind of white feminism that falsely says that white women represent ALL women.

In addition to the many many Black women and other women of color who aren't in this "'women' who will defect" group, there , there are plenty of white women, including white feminist women, who support Senator Obama. Now, I know that the white feminists who support Senator Obama are not immune from more subtle forms of racism/white supremacy -- it is there for sure among other wings of white feminism and white progressives in general. I know this from long experience.

But this overt white-race-loyalty-feminism -- it is not as big as "women" for SURE and is not even as big as white feminists for sure. It IS as big as hardcore white race loyalists, men and women.

That is who and what we're talking about, primarily: White-race-loyalists.

Some of them will call themselves feminists and say they speak for all women because it makes them look way bigger and more important than they are.

It's possible this group (including men and women) will prevail, but the more I watch Senator Obama and his team in action, the more I feel like he is capable of not letting it happen. But that's another issue.

The question for me is, how crucial to a Democratic Party win is the white race loyalist vote? Are white race loyalists part of the necessary base of the Democratic party? I would like to believe not.

But if so, of the "white race loyalist" vote is required for a Dem. Party win, then something is very wrong with the Democratic Party and obviously re-making the map (as Senator Obama is already doing, I think) is crucial and necessary change if the Democratic Party is going to be viable.

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:32:00 -0000

Ok, I said some of what I think about the "women" and sexism thing in the Hillary/popular vote post from today, because I couldn't help myself. I kind of thought I was in today's open thread post but I wasn't. So I'm going to also post the link to my comment here in the open thread:

IMO it's not about "a large chunk of women" who will defect from the party, it's about ....

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 19:18:00 -0000

Wow. That Sylvia Welsh article is UGLY. In that smarmy "I'm going to pretend to be nice but am stabbing you with a smile on my face" kind of passive-aggressive vibe.

Rene wrote: I don't understand why these white women (Walsh, Maureen Dowd) believe its okay to question Obama's masculinity. Who the f**k is she to define what's sexy, what is masculine, especially in regards to a black man.

The white-hetero-women-defining-Black-masculinity (and relatedly assessing Senator Obama for sexiness) is to my eyes a white female assertion of assumed ownership of Black men.

Really disgusting.

and @ rikyrah and Ms. Martin, I'm glad to read your comments about what I wrote in the other thread. Ms. Martin, I remember Gloria Steinem getting schooled by Melissa Harris-Lacewell ...

Re: Thursday Open Thread- Let it all hang out

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 21:47:00 -0000

Ms. Martin: ".....a white female assertion of assumed ownership of Black men."

Isn't this really what this entire tantrum that Hillbitch & company are having is about.

I hadn't thought about it that way but it resonates.

Maybe I'm misunderstanding your take on it though (I could be! I think I may be missing something about the heterosexual dynamic of it or something).

But if not it reminds me of another dynamic of the white-race-loyalty-feminism I've been thinking about ... I wrote this a few days ago trying to think out loud:

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

Focus on Senator Obama's supposed "sexism" is actually a form of coded racism. Using the woman/gender thing as cover for what they are really saying, which that Senator Obama is aggressive and scary because he is BLACK. But that's not what they say, they code it under "man" and "sexist."

So they can express, in a socially acceptable way, all their hatred and fury of a BLACK (man) seeking leadership under cover of saying it's just his gender and it's sexism -- and Clinton and they are the victims. The myth of the Black male rapist of pure unsullied white womanhood exists for a reason.

I think this form of white-race-loyalty-feminism is flat-out terrified of and furious about the possibility of a Black man, or actually a Black person of either gender, in power. To the core.

From this angle I think it may go beyond what B-serious said about uppity N*** cutting in line. It may be that in this perspective, Black people have no real place in that line to begin with because the line is for consolidating power among white people.

White-race-loyalty-feminism is about including white women in this line and in places of power in this society -- first as white people, and specifically as white people who want the full benefits and advantages of being white.

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

So Ms. Martin, I'm thinking -- again I may not be understanding what you said -- but seems to me like some form of ownership of Black men (and Black women for that matter, though again I suspect maybe there is some hetero dynamic that I am not getting here) is part of the cluster of white power that white-race-loyalty-feminism wants to be sure to have and retain a piece of.

Hmm, and I'm reminded of the whole thing where Ms. Hillary said Senator Obama should be her VP when he was ahead of her anyway. Because for her the proper place of that Black man is to be owned inside HER administration, that's what that move said to me.

I remember at that time I was struggling really really hard with something going on from the Obama campaign, I think it was that the senator lost his center for a little while (I remember him talking self-critically about it later in an interview, saying he was performing more than connecting).

Anyway, I remember that because I was feeling kind of down and depressed about the campaign and then BAM he came out with that marvelous corrective commentary about how he was running for President and not VP and the energy of it was just so strong and clear. I was practically calling back at him and cheering as I read the transcript, it was that powerful to my eyes.

And I was sort of thinking then and clearly thinking now: that power was his refusal to let her own him, that power was him standing as a real human being and as a leader -- and not an object for white ownership. It was beautiful to me.

Again -- I could be misunderstanding what you wrote, though, and I am sorry if so, that I just took what you wrote and ran with it so long in another direction.

Re: WHERE ALL THE WHITE WOMEN AT?

Michelle — Thu, 22 May 2008 22:05:00 -0000

TruthSeeker: I despise her too, I do. I haven't listened to or watched her, though, only glanced at her awful comments in writing, and steamed.

And after what she has been doing these days, I wish I could personally make Geraldine Ferraro give me back every bit of the life energy and time I gave -- at the age of 14 -- to volunteer for the 1984 Democratic ticket. GIVE IT BACK TO ME YOU NASTY NASTY PERSON GIVE IT BACK.

PS: Actually the only time I really looked at a picture of her in this whole campaign situation was when I made this:

Geraldine Ferraro on race and gender

Re: WHERE ALL THE WHITE WOMEN AT?

Michelle — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:54:00 -0000

@rikyrah (comment at 08:19:00 PM)

OMG!

You said "Period" about Gerry Ferraro who is a WOMAN -- that's so sexist!

OMG!

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 24 May 2008 17:07:00 -0000

I read something in my late late night internet travels last night -- can't remember where, maybe one of the discussions on balloon juice?

Anyway the commenter said that part of the pattern of the Clintons behavior is to sometimes be horrible and outrageous and get people all riled up, then backpedal just enough to say (whenever it becomes convenient to their agenda) they are being attacked by the response to whatever they said/did.

Through much of this campaign season, I have been feeling that one of Hillary Clinton's persistent strategies is to try to get a rise out of Senator Obama, related to this pattern. His ability and choice to stay calm and even-tempered through all the ugly and insanity has thwarted this Clinton strategy, IMO.

I saw and myself had a lot of different opinions on the whole "should he fight back" question. But at this point I am kind of in awe of his response to these tactics, because it is not something I would have been able to do and it seems to work very well.

It's like: She has this strategy of getting horrible and outrageous. It's *supposed* to provoke a response that she can then use to her advantage in a big way. But it doesn't provoke the response from Obama that she's going for. He just moves WITH the flow (rather than openly against it) and in that way lets it slide past, in a way.

And by this approach her strategy is transformed into a process of this whole situation smoking her out so she more and more shows the extent of how batshit crazy racist sociopathic she really is.

And I think it maybe that is not only (and maybe has never only been) about getting a rise out of Senator Obama -- but out of the rest of us also. Though I'm not sure about this.

Anyway, I have found that I have no way to stop myself from feeling their actions and related words as violence at some level. And, I have found that telling myself to not feel it is doing wrong to myself because I do feel it and it is real.

So when she said what she said (and I am not going to repeat it) it actually made me shake, and start yelling and feel like I was going to cry and not be able to stop. I knew cognitively that this was a reaction to something intended to provoke a reaction, I wished I did not feel it like that because I was letting her get to me, like a bully does.

But I saw that her words functioned as a rhetorical weapon designed to get very very quicky underneath whatever defenses we have and invoke the most visceral response among the largest number of Obama supporters and possibly others.

I don't really have a conclusion here to tie all this together or whatever. So I'll just post the comment.

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 24 May 2008 17:41:00 -0000

And for yet another example of what I am starting to see as Senator Obama's deeply brilliant responses to the Clinton strategy I wrote about above:

Certainly that's the way Obama's campaign initially appeared to interpret her remark to a South Dakota newspaper, the Argus Leader in Sioux Falls.

"Senator Clinton's statement before the Argus Leader editorial board was unfortunate and has no place in this campaign," Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton said in a statement Friday.

On Saturday while campaigning in Puerto Rico, Obama seemed inclined to excuse Clinton's remark as a simple misstep.

"I have learned that when you are campaigning for as many months as Senator Clinton and I have been campaigning, sometimes you get careless in terms of the statements that you make and I think that is what happened here. Senator Clinton says that she did not intend any offense by it and I will take her at her word on that," Obama told Radio Isla Puerto Rico. Source: From AP: Analysis: Clinton's latest off-key remark By DEVLIN BARRETT

I've been thinking a lot lately about truth telling and its dynamics in this society. In my life all along I've been frustrated horrified and baffled about how deception functions and protects itself.

From experience I have come to feel like it's a no-win situation. My experience is this: Tell the truth baldly and bluntly outside of groups that already agree, and there is a backlash. The backlash functions to take attention off of the truth and re-focus it onto something else that seems related but is really a change of subject.

Senator Obama's words alone don't always tell the truth as bluntly as I would like. But that is partly because I have a problem with understanding how "words alone" exist and function in this society. I don't really get the disconnection between words and actions. But I think it's that disconnection that makes the backlash-redirection possible and powerful.

I do see how Senator Obama is telling -- by revealing more than speaking -- the truth through his actions. His actions and approaches to things often provoke truth to come out of its own accord. He doesn't have to tell it in words alone because it shows itself, partly in response to how he chooses to move through situations. I may not have the right words to describe this here. I've been noticing this for a while now but it has been hard for me to find a way to describe it.

I don't know if this is interesting beyond my own internal reflections with myself and am sorry if it's not and I have just posted these two freaking long comments just for my own sake but in case not --

I really have gone from initially and intermittently feeling upset at these kinds of moves (like the quote above) because they don't conform to my idea of what telling the truth is ... to standing in serious awe of and deep respect for how his actions, approaches and responses actually function to bring the reality, ugly as it may be, to stark visibility in various situations.

And again, I am sorry for these two long posts if this is only or even mostly only interesting to me in my own reflections.

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 24 May 2008 18:11:00 -0000

Ms Martin -- yeah apparently we do!

And I agree with you 100% about it particularly targeting Michelle Obama -- one of the very first things that came out of my mouth after I was able to calm down just a little (still yelling and very upset at the time but a little bit calmer than right at first) was my sense that this was especially targeted at his family and specifically Michelle. Visceral. So ugly to do that.

I had a conversation a few days ago with a (I assume white from her perspective) cultural critic writing for the Chicago Tribune. She was saying that the media people calling Clinton a monster and being rhetorically violent against her -- like calling her a psycho ex-girlfriend and rhetorically wishing her dead -- was an attack on all women. Yes, she said, all strong women are victims of such attacks on Hillary.

I said, hell no, not me. I said, Hillary is an abuser, a perpetrator, and I know a perpetrator when I see one even if this society says that white women supposedly can't be perpetrators.

So Ms Martin, the scenario you're describing is IMO a perfect one for a white female perpetrator's advantage ... because some people would be all "look at the violent Black woman going after the white woman whose words have plausible deniability" and so Hillary gets to be a victim again and her own violent acts go invisible.

I want to send my love and care and best wishes to Michelle Obama for having to put up with this violent attack and its horror, and I hope she is holding on ok, whatever that means for her own well-being and that of her family.

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sat, 24 May 2008 19:47:00 -0000

Craig! Craig! I'm running out the door but have to reply before I do --

I did see those other posts of yours but absolutely didn't understand the relevance, didn't get it. Thanks for saying it again, I think I get it this time.

And even more, thank you for your analysis/translation of his words: I found Obama's response accurate without being inflammatory. It is a long campaign. Her words were reckless. At best. But we all know this. And he said he takes her at her word when we all know her word means shit.

Translation: she's a reckless, lying pile of cow dung, but if we forgive her and move on, her recklessness and her lies have no power.

That thing about taking her at her word is -- wow -- it may be among the most brilliant layered expressions of truth I have ever seen. And, there are very very few things, apart from being around my parakeet, that literally make me grin with delight. But reading and reflecting on this did. Amazing.

Weird how long it's taken for my brain to catch up with what my gut has been feeling about Senator Obama all along.

and --- Oooh, as I post this I see a post from Truthseeker and Ms Martin and I am sorry I have to go now but looking forward to reading when I get back. I am very appreciative of this whole discussion, very very appreciative.

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sun, 25 May 2008 00:30:00 -0000

Truthseeker: I'm adding my voice to those who have said how great and accurate your post is. Very deep, very on-point IMO.

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

lexusOakland: I'm almost 100% certain I saw the new picture (him alone, not the family) on May 7th when donating $25 in response to his campaign's email about Clinton lending her campaign 6.4 million -- I think I noticed and remarked on it to my girlfriend at the time. I just asked her and she thinks she remembers that too, we were both standing there with the credit card and looking. But then, rikyrah says she saw the old picture a couple of days ago. So maybe they've switched it before as well?

Re: Saturday, It’s A Saturday Open Thread

Michelle — Sun, 25 May 2008 04:30:00 -0000

I just saw this in a quick google news check before turning off the computer:

Trouble brewing in N.Y. for Clinton: Black leaders say that if Hillary Rodham Clinton returns as senator, she'll need to heal racial wounds her campaign has inflicted.