Off Topic

Obama's Choice of Rick Warren

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:46:00 +0000

I didn't vote for Barrack Obama. My reasons were simple: I didn't think you solve the financial problems of this nation by electing THE most liberal in the Senate. But Obama won the popular vote and now has won the Electoral College vote and I accept he is destined to be my President. Those close to me know this has been difficult for me and I've literally prayed for guidance.

Well, I'm delighted to state that I'm THRILLED with Obama's choice of Rick Warren to give the invocation at the Inauguration. Not because I agree with Rick Warren and all his conservative views, but rather because of the symbolism of the choice itself. I see this as a genuine gesture at uniting the country and I'm ALL FOR IT!

For the record, I'm a Republican, but I absolutely oppose any ban on gay marriage. I think it is absolutely ludicrous that our government thinks it has the right to define a RELIGIOUS state! I live in CA and voted against Prop 8.

I also believe abortion should be legal - if abortion is illegal not only will babies die, women (and teenage girls) will, too. The answer to abortion lies in understanding why we have so many unwanted pregnancies. I do believe late-term abortions should be banned - once the baby has ANY chance of surviving outside the mother's womb, abortion should no longer be an option.

I state these things to ensure my readers my "thrill" in Obama's choice of Warren comes not in my agreement with Warren's views. Rather, I'm thrilled because Obama stated during his campaign he would be the people's President; I took that to mean ALL people, even those that did not vote for him. Well, even though Warren represents the polar opposite of many (most) of Obama's views, Warren is still a citizen of this nation and I applaud Obama's courage to step outside the liberal box and invite an ultra-conservative like Warren to the Inaugural ceremonies. The symbolism of the far-left and the far-right coming together at the moment the new administration takes office - well, I don't think politics gets any better than that!

Let's hope Obama keeps it up!

-- Kristin

Healing My Heart with Love

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 02:35:00 +0000

It's been nearly six months since D.O.G. died. I thought by now the hurt would be easier, but it seems to still lurk in the empty spaces of my heart. He was a special dog and I miss him so much. Gregg recently shared that he misses him, too, and we both feel a deep emptiness without him.

We hadn't thought about getting another puppy, until just a few days ago when we found an English Labrador breeder in our hometown who had six puppies just days away from being ready to go to their new homes. They were adorable - pure bread from champion pedigree and lovingly raised by good old fashioned mountain folk on a ranch not far from our home. Did I dare call to see if any were still available?

I pondered the idea for a few days - until today. And believe it or not, two puppies were still not spoken for - two blacks - one girl, one boy. We left to go see them, checkbook in hand.

Well, needless to say when you see six labrador puppies that are eight weeks old, you instantly fall in love; we decided on the little boy. We signed the contract for ownership (this is a serious breeder that doesn't take chances with her puppies), wrote the check and brought him home.

We couldn't be happier.

Even still, I keep thinking how much D.O.G. would love the new puppy and with those thoughts I realize there will always be a sad place in my heart for him. But my heart is healing with new love for a new dog who will undoubtedly fill our home with joy.

-- Kristin

It's Unofficial!!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 20:03:00 +0000

I have learned that in January, barring any unforeseen circumstances, I will receive an appointment to a District seat in the Republican Party Central Committee in Santa Cruz county. This is a two year, unpaid appointment, but enables me to continue developing a base of support in my area to (maybe/hopefully) run for office in 2010 at the county level.

I've been active in a grassroots organization for over a year (recently took over organizing the group) so this is BIG NEWS for me personally and my "baby-steps" progression in the political system....

For those that don't know: the Central Committee is the smallest, working unit of the Republican party and focuses on fund raising, candidate development, voter registration/get out the vote drives and other functions all at the local level.

Update: Obama Birth Certificate Cases

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 22:36:00 +0000

I've had a few inquiries about any updates regarding the Berg case.

I did read on the drudgereport.com this week that the Berg case was dismissed by the Supreme Court, though I've not been able to confirm that.

The Donofrio (spellling?) case was scheduled for conference yesterday by the justices, but I've not had time to look for an update on that yet, either.

I'll spend some time today looking for updates - if you're heard something, please comment on the blog or email me and be sure to include your source.

-- Kristin

The New Math

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 03:04:00 +0000

This will make you laugh out loud!
--

What Makes 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been to those meetings where someone wants you to give over 100%. How about achieving 103%? What makes up 100% in life?

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help you answer these questions:

If:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

is represented as:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26.

Then:

H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K
8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

and

K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E
11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96%

But ,

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E
1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

And,

B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T
2+21+12+12+19+8+9+20 = 103%

AND, look how far ass kissing will take you.

A-S-S-K-I-S-S-I-N-G
1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 118%

So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty, that While Hard work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, its the Bullshit and Ass kissing that will put you over the top.

Berg vs Barack Obama on US Supreme Court Docket

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sun, 23 Nov 2008 02:25:00 +0000

On October 30, 2008, Philip Berg took his previously denied case to the US Supreme Court and the case is now on the court's docket.

Go here to access the US Supreme Court docket online and enter case number 08-4340 and you will find the Philip Berg vs Barack Obama case listed. There is one ruling so far on an application for an injunction by Berg to stall the election until after the response, but Justice Souter denied that application on November 3rd. The original petition for a writ of certiorari is still pending with a response due December 1, 2008

Philip Berg's case against Barack Obama alleges that Obama is not qualified to be President since he is not a natural born citizen. The original case was filed in August at which the Obama team began working (along with the DNC) to have the case thrown out on technicalities. All Obama has to do is show his Birth Certificate, which is not the same thing as a Certificate of Live Birth, and this case is over.

Why doesn't Obama just show his birth certificate?

Even if you cannot find your birth certificate, you can request a new, certified copy from the state within which you were born. For a US Senator running for the Office of the President, Obama could probably get a new copy in about an hour.

Something else that is interesting regarding this topic: Obama has never released ANY of his higher education documents from Columbia University or any other university he attended. Why not, you ask? Well, some think these documents may also have information indicating Obama is not a natural born US Citizen.

Finally, people need to understand Barack Obama does not officially become the President Elect until he wins the Electoral College vote on December 15, 2008. Now for all intents and purposes we can assume the Electoral College will uphold the popular vote and select Barack Obama as President. But what happens if Barack Obama doens't comply with the US Supreme Court response due by 12/1 and the highest court in the land rules him ineligible - who would the electors vote for then? OR what happens if there is some delay in the 12/1 response, the electors vote Obama in and THEN he is ruled ineligible by the court? If this second scenario happens, there is a clear lineage stated in the Constitution where the Vice President Elect would become President until a "qualified" President could be named.

This is a fascinating story and critically important to our nation's future and, incredibly, the mainstream media is not covering it.

Don't be misinformed (or under informed)!

Visit Philip Berg's site here to learn more about his case.

Also, Philip Berg is not the only person with a case like this pending. There are several others in multiple states including one filed by Alan Keyes in California against Obama and the California electors. Read Alan Keyes' case here.

And be sure to check back here for the outcome on December 1st. You can count on me to post an update on the blog.

-- Kristin

I'm Outraged By California Lawmakers...

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 02:47:00 +0000

... and you should be, too.

It's not bad enough that California lawmakers set a state record for "days late" when they approved this year's budget or that within weeks of being delivered late, the budget now has a $27.8 BILLION hole. But now we learn that not one, but TWO groups of Sacramento lawmakers are traveling -- in ASIA!

One group, which includes the CHAIR of the Senate Budget Committee, Sen. Denise Ducheny (D), is in India (but don't worry, she's in touch by phone). The other group on a trip organized by Assemblywoman Fiona Ma (D) is in China. All the while California faces a budget crisis to the tune of $27.8 Billion.

The currently proposed solution includes TRIPLING taxes on your car(s). And that's not a typo - TRIPLE. State workers are also being targeted with a day off each month without pay and losing two paid holidays a year.

But the lawmakers, they still get to travel abroad - in "groups", no less - instead of being in Sacramento trying to solve this serious problem. Californians everywhere should be outraged over the utter nonsense going on in Sacramento.

Read about the traveling lawmakers on the SacBee site here.
Read about your car taxes maybe TRIPLING here.
And read just how bad California's Budget crisis is in this report.

Finally, contact your reps in Sacramento and let them know how you feel. Don't know who represents you in Sacramento? Find out here.

-- Kristin

How Obama Got Elected

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:20:00 +0000

A fascinating poll of Obama voters that has also been commissioned as a scientific Zogby telephone poll of Obama supporters... you need to watch this:

Overall in the telephone poll of more than 500 Obama voters, less than 2% were able to answer all the questions correctly.

For the full results of the Zogby Poll of Obama voters and to learn about the forthcoming documentary "Media Malpractice... How Obama Got Elected" go to
http://HowObamaGotElected.com/

Bottom line (and as I've said before): Be sure to get your news from REAL news outlets - if you look long and hard, you can still find some.

-- Kristin

Life Can Be Hard, Even When You're Happy

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 23:25:00 +0000

Gregg and I recently returned from Hawaii where we celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary. We spent 8 days and 7 nights in a tiny, efficiency cottage across from the beach - close enough to smell the salt-water breeze and hear the waves washing over the sand.

I planned this trip months ago and, in my mind, it became symbolic of a couple triumphing over a decade of marriage by spending a perfect week in the perfect place and having a perfect time. We’ve all seen that couple in our minds walking hand-in-hand along the beach into the sunset. I wanted that to be us... what could be more perfect? What would be more symbolic that we’d made it?

In reality, the trip ended up being less than perfect and when I returned home, I was in some ways disappointed. Don’t get me wrong, we did have some really fun times, but we bickered and argued also and, sometimes, over the stupidest things.

Was this all we had to celebrate after ten years of marriage?

Generally speaking, I think Gregg and I are happily married. We spend a lot of time together, support each other’s interests and still have an active and satisfying intimate life. We definitely have our cycles and over the nearly twelve years that we've been together, I've come to expect the ups and downs as they wash over us, back and forth, just like those waves on the beach next to our vacation cottage.

I just didn’t expect to be “down” on the one week I was striving for perfection. I chalked it up to “life’s hard, even when you’re happy” and I was thinking that I would really love a do-over.

But then I realized that every day is a chance for a do-over – a chance to live the way we want to. We just need to keep our eye on what’s important.

What’s important right now is that Gregg and I did make it ten years married. Yes, life can be hard (even when you’re happy), but it doesn’t mean you can’t stop for a moment, a day, a week, or a month and celebrate the accomplishments and failures we live. And isn’t that the point of this life – to simply live? Makes me think of God’s description of Himself – I AM. God didn’t say “I am big”, “I am infinite”, “I am important”, “I am perfect”… He simply said I AM. I think I can learn something from that.

Hawaii was beautiful and I’m glad Gregg and I went there for our anniversary – we made an event of it with the good and bad of each day. I’d say that’s the best and most honest description one can give of marriage.

And for me, ten years of marriage to a man I can still call my best friend (and could sometimes strangle) is reason enough to celebrate, even if our lives (and vacations) aren’t perfect.

-- Kristin

Obama's Weakness Already Being Played By World Leaders

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:58:00 +0000

Let the games begin..

On the day after President-elect Obama was elected, Iran is already seeking his "good will" in supporting the removal of sanctions. Read about it here.

And then Russian President Medvedev had some "chilling" remarks about the US's missile defense system that were obviously a direct statement to the new President-elect Obama. Read about it here.

It seems that President-elect Obama will bring change to our nation, just not the kind any American wants. How will you feel when Iran attacks Isreal and the US stands by and does nothing as President-elect Obama waits for approval from the UN Security Council for "permission" to protect our ally... remember, in one of the debates, Obama couldn't give a direct answer to the question "would you wait for approval from the UN Security Council in regards to a direct attack on Isreal from Iran?". John McCain answered with a definitive "NO"... Barrack gave his usual "um, uh, you know, uh" spineless answer. There was a reason Joe Liebermann supported McCain... he knows McCain would stop at nothing to protect Isreal... I doubt in my heart Obama will do the same.

Unfortunately, I think we'll get to see all too soon just how weak the world perceives our new President-elect. And whether he is actually weak or not doesn't matter - perception is the world's reality and the world will play off of those perceptions.

A friend of mine recently posted on her blog a prayer for all the newly elected officials - I'll add to that a prayer for our nation, our liberty and our freedoms. Those things more than our elected officials are what need our prayers now.

-- Kristin

Our Tax System Explained...

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:42:00 +0000

I stumbled on this today and just had to post it... it couldn't be more true and is more important than ever with Obama headed for the White House...

Our Tax System Explained: Bar Stool Economics
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:

The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.

The fifth would pay $1.

The sixth would pay $3.

The seventh would pay $7.

The eighth would pay $12.

The ninth would pay $18.

The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.

So, that's what they decided to do.

The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are all such good customers,' he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20.' Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free.

But what about the other six men - the paying customers… how could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?'

They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer.

So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.

And so:

The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).

The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).

The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).

The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).

The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).

The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.

'I only got a dollar out of the $20,'declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man,' but he got $10!'

'Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man. 'I only saved a dollar, too. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I got'

'That's true!!' shouted the seventh man. 'Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!'

'Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!'

The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.

The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!

And that, ladies and gentlemen, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

David R. Kamerschen, Ph.D.
Professor of Economics
University of Georgia

For those who understand, no explanation is needed.
For those who do not understand, no explanation is possible.

On Fire for God

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 05:51:00 +0000

Today I spoke at First United Methodist Church in Watsonville. I was invited to speak for Laity Sunday.

I arrived early enabling me to listen to the choir as they practiced before the service. As I listened, I found myself getting choked up and I was surprised by this. The chorus of the song they were practicing went (something) like this:

Even though I cannot see you, Lord, I love you
I cannot touch you, but I embrace
I cannot know you, but I follow
I cannot see you, but I believe

It brought tears to my eyes as I listened to these words. I thought to myself 'how perfect the song goes with my message today'...

Again during the service as the choir performed the song, I found myself choked up - it brought tears to my eyes - the song was so meaningful for the message I was about to give to the congregation.

As I stood to give my message, making a final blow to my nose and wipe to my eyes, I told the congregation how I was feeling and how I was so joyful to be with them that morning. I delivered my message about faith and doubt and I could feel it was being well received.

At the end of the service, the pastor asked me to join her at the exit of the church and we greeted the congregation as they exited. They were so kind to me with comments, hand shakes and a few hugs!

Finally, the pastor shared with me how perfect she thought the song had turned out for my message and she explained that the choir director had selected the song BEFORE knowing what I would speak about or the scriptures I would reference!! I laughed out loud when I learned this...

This perfect song to accompany my message was selected WITHOUT any knowledge of what my message would be. Can anyone say GOD IS ALIVE AND WELL!?!?

I certainly can and how wonderful God is in showing me how on target I am with my speaking. It's not the easiest thing in the world to go from non-church person to church-person-speaking-at-the-pulpit in the short amount of time I have made this transformation and there has been a ton of doubt to accompany me along the way. But God is there, too, and He reminds me today that I am not alone on this journey - He is there guiding me and holding me up and for that, I'm on fire for God!

-- Kristin

The Market Speaks ... and It Isn't Good.

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 22:31:00 +0000

In looking at the market today, I'm thinking to myself, "Didn't Congress supposedly save us from this already?" I'm also wondering if all those House Representatives that voted for this ridiculous excuse for legislation are now more worried than EVER about losing their seat in the House!

Wasn't the bailout, rescue, welfare-for-wall-street (whatever you want to call it) suppose to ease the markets and ensue confidence? Apparently, it didn't work. And today when Paulson announced that we would start injecting liquidity by purchasing preferred and common stock shares, the market tanks some more.... in fact, the market may be responding to today's actions regarding the resolution of Lehman's CDS (Credit Default Swap) contracts.

And NO ONE is talking about things the SEC could do RIGHT NOW that would boost confidence - like suspending the mark-to-market accounting rules that helped to get us into this mess in the first place! Well, almost no one - Newt Gingrich has a statement calling for this action here.

Other sites that I'm reading are warning Americans to be prepared for a long and deep recession with hoarded cash, non-perishable food stock holds and NO DEBT!... yeah, right, like Americans will get out of debt by this Friday..

My opinion is that the way America has been living for the past few decades (way beyond our means) is now coming home to roost and I think there's going to be a heavy price to pay. And if you think countries can't go bankrupt, read up on what's happening in Iceland as we speak.

Here are some predictions that I've read in the past 1-2 days:

1. There will be massive lay offs over the next 12 months... they've started already and will accelerate as the days and weeks pass

2. The election will be a botch job from Hell with voter fraud, voter disenfranchising and legal action. There will be no outcome the day of the actual election, rather, a repeat scenario like 2000 will ensue.

3. As more and more Americans face circumstances they've never contemplated let alone planned for, violence will escalate. Civil unrest will outbreak across our nation giving a strong possibility for martial law. Read about the recent repatriatization of an Army Brigade to the homeland here. I don't really think I want the Army "helping people at home"..

It makes me wonder what WILL happen next.

The best analysis I'm reading:

By Karl Denninger here.
By Nouriel Roubini here.
By Global Research here
By Jim Sinclair here

Finally, for some fun and to make a very important point with Congress, if you want to send Congress a bona fide Pink Slip, check out this great site:

http://sendpinkslips.com

Of course, the best pink slip of all will be your vote on November 4th - remember, the ENTIRE House of Representatives is up for re-election and we need to send most of them home...

-- Kristin

Senate Blantantly Ignores Constiuents By Passing Bailout Bill

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 15:35:00 +0000

In a historic vote yesterday, the Senate passed the bailout bill with an overwhelming majority of 75 to 24. This passing occurred even with unprecendented outcry from Americans against the bill.

As I watched the hearings, I heard repeatedly about how "angry" the Senators were to "have to" vote for this bill. My own Senators, Boxer and Feinstein, also consented that they would support the bill, Feinstein going all the way as to saying she knew "better" than the nearly 90 thousand constitiuents that contacted her office against the bill.

So much for "representation" in our Government.

The bill passed by the Senate has more than 300 pages of earmarks, yet both Presidential candidates voted for it.

So much for reducing Government spending and keeping watch over our children's futures.

The bill passed by the Senate rewards companies that have mismanaged (criminally in my opionion) billions of dollars of wealth by repairing their balance sheets and allowing them to continue to be in business.

So much for accountability in our corporations.

The bill passed by the Senate gives American tax payer money to foreign banks and entities.

So much for bailing out Main Street.

And yet it passed with a landslide majority. Here's a tinyURL link to the roll call vote so you can see how YOUR Senators voted:

http://tiny.cc/9FN1q

The bill will return to the House where it is expected to pass according to the mainstream media. Oh really?! Not if America has anything to do with it.

At this point, we must contact every House Rep that previously voted against the bill - we must encourage them to stand strong with their no vote. Most of these Representatives are in tight re-election races back home and we need to let them know they are doing the right thing to resist the temptation to pass this bill. Remember, EVERY HOUSE MEMBER IS UP FOR RE-ELECTION ON NOVEMBER 4, 2008.

Call every Rep that voted no - don't waste time with email as the email system has been limited in the past week to keep the system from crashing. You need to pick up the phone and call.

Here's the link to the House of Representatives contact list to find your Rep's contact #:

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/

And here's the link to the House roll call from the previous vote:

http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2008/roll674.xml

Don't delay - time is of the essence!

And if you need further convincing that this bill is bad for our country, I urge you to read up on some of the top economists in our nation commenting on what will work and what won't. I've been following Nouriel Roubini of New York University and he has many pages on the web explaining why this bill is flawed. Read one of the articles by following this tinyURL:

http://tiny.cc/LHd1n

This is a bad bill for our nation and for our future and it must be stopped.

-- Kristin

Roll Call for Bailout Vote - How Did Your Rep Vote?

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 20:11:00 +0000

With all the news on the bailout and the unprecedented outcry of Americans across the land to their elected officials against the bailout, we still see in the vote this morning that 205 members of the House of Representatives SUPPORTED the bill. Unbelievable! I'm sure they think they know better than you and I when it comes to spending $700 billion of OUR MONEY!

Would you like to know how your Representative voted? Here's a link to the roll call for the vote:

http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2008/roll674.xml

Now here's the kicker: EVERY MEMBER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES is up for reelection this November 4th. So here's our chance to do a little house cleaning, America.

Check out the link above to see if your Rep supported the bailout. If they did, be sure to make it to the polls this November 4th to vote against them. If they voted against the bailout, be sure to make it to the polls to vote for them as those who voted against this bill should be hailed as heros in our nation!

It's time for Americans to take back their government... let's get started with the House of Representatives!

-- Kristin

Watercolor Portrait - "Keith"

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:48:00 +0000

My first attempt at a portrait in watercolor. I worked from the picture and am very happy with this! :)

This portrait is of Keith - someone I loved a long time ago. He passed away last year and there are many that miss him dearly..

-- Kristin

Frisbee Girl

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 01:46:00 +0000

I've been taking my camera with me everywhere and actually using it. I pulled it out yesterday while Gregg, me and Sara were at Highlands Park in Ben Lomond. I took this pic of Sara swimming in the river with her frisbee... she has just fetched it and is swimming back to shore and to Gregg. She LOVES to play frisbee with Gregg, especially if she gets to get WET! Since we lost our other golden, D.O.G., back in July, we've been spending lots of time with Sara... she goes everywhere with us.

I had time to do some sketching and watercolor while at the park in my pocket Moleskin. I also did a watercolor and ink of this pic of Sara today as a quick study - I love the softness of this pic and think it is just perfect for a watercolor - don't you?

I'm happy with this watercolor in general, though I do like the bottom half of the water better than the top. I love how the rippling over Sara's body came out and the reflection. The top of the water was great until I got heavy handed at the end with the darker blue... I have to remember to tell myself "that's enough - put the brush down"... :)

Talk soon...

-- Kristin

Daisies for D.O.G.

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 16:32:00 +0000

One of the sympathy cards we received when D.O.G. died had these beautiful painted daisies - I was really drawn to them... ended up sketching and painting them myself. This is in my pocket Moleskin sketchbook with Cotman student watercolors and water brush and pen.

This is the first post of my art that is scanned - the few pics previously posted I took with my digital camera... but I also want to experiment with scanning my work as I can see a definite advantage with scanning: more control over the light and exposure... I'm excited about scanning! :)

What do you do - scan or pic?

Well, this Sunday I will speak at a completely new church. This one is "over the hill" in San Jose - a completely different place than my mountain church in Boulder Creek! And it will be a building full of strangers as I don't expect anyone I know to attend services. I'm nervous and excited all at once. My message is entitled, "Who Me Lord? Are You Sure?" and centers on the role of doubt in our faith and lives. This is the first run with this message - I will give it again at another church in Santa Cruz August 31. That event will be taped and I hope to share a copy on the blog sometime in September. Wish me luck!

Talk soon..

-- Kristin

McCain Video and the need for 3rd Party Candidate Win

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:32:00 +0000

I recently received an email with a link to this YouTube video about John McCain:

This is a good video and shows just how much career politicians will say whatever it takes to get elected. Sadly, I'm sure someone could put a video together that shows the same of Obama. The most recent item Obama has flip-flopped on is public campaign finance. For more than two years, Obama claimed he would use and support the public campaign finance system, which would provide his presidential campaign with $84 Million dollars to use for the general election. Obama has gone on record numerous times stating that politicians need to support the system and, when they do, the system works to level the playing field of public campaigns.

Unfortunatley, a month ago, Obama has now declined use of the public finance funds and calls the system "broken", yet his voting record clearly shows he supported the system for practically his entire tenure in the senate. His campaign will be the first campaign since Watergate to not use public finance money....

The bottom line is that whether you vote for Obama or McCain, it will be "Washington as usual".

I read an article today about how Obama is the better candidate because he is so "compassionate" and has been "in the trenches" with the middle class. Well, unfortunately, compassion and "in the trenches" experience is NOT what is needed in a politician.

what is needed is a politician that will uphold his oath to serve and protect the US Constitution, the supreme rule of law this nation is founded on. Neither Obama or McCain have a voting record that shows their unwavering support for the US Constitution and, thus, neither should get your vote in November.

So the question becomes - who do you vote for?

Well, there are three other parties with enough ballot access across all 51 states to mathematically win the election in November. But you won't here about any of them from the national media and if you ask anyone about them, the common response you will get is that you are "throwing away your vote" when you give it to one of these 3rd party candidates. This is of course proproganda that is used against Americans to brain wash them into thinking just that - so they take the lower road and vote the lesser of two evils: a Democrat or a Republican.... (not all of the Dem's and Rep's are bad - there are a few that are staunch supporters of the US Constitution - unfortunately, none of them are still in the race for President)

The fact of the matter is if enough Americans knew about these 3rd party candidates and actually voted for them, they could win and a win by a 3rd party candidate for the Presidency is the EXACT kind of shockwave needed to reverberate through the Democratic and Republican parties that the American people are taking Washington back.

I'm personally going to support Chuck Baldwin, the Constitution Party candidate. He is a strict constituionalist with a conservative mindset about our country.

There is also Bob Barr, the Libertarian Party nominee and, as I write this email, the Green Party is in the process of selecting their candidate at their national convention in Chicago. I'm hoping they pick Cynthia McKinney, a two-time congresswoman from Georgia who drew national attention with her stance for ethics reform legislation in Congress... of course, she was promptly defeated on that initiative.

The bottom line is that every American needs to understand that voting for either Obama or McCain is a vote for the "status quo". Every American needs to understand the truth behind getting elected and how their vote for a candidate works, and, finally, every American needs to understand they have more than two choices for President when they go to the polls in November....

Read more about ballot access issues and how to get involved in ensuring our nation has free and open elections at these sites:
http://www.cofoe.org/
http://www.ballot-access.org

Unfortunately, candidates in Iraq actually have freer and easier access to getting on the ballot than American candidates!!

Read more about 3rd party candidates running this year here.

And read more about the mathematical chances of a 3rd party candidate winning the election here.

Also, turn off ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, FOX, MSNBC and other major news affiliates. Seek out independent news sources that offer full, objective coverage of the elections, ALL the candidates, international issues including Iraq, Iran, China, Russia the US and global economies and other hot topics in our world. My personal favorites are

News With Views
Democracy Now
The Media Research Center
The Financial Times (UK publication)
The Economist (UK publication)
Prison Planet
Jim Sinclair's JSMineset (Financial Market news and Gold Market news)
Open Democracy

Finally, to understand just how critical a part the national media is playing in all of this, you should read

"Fighting For Air: The Battle to Control America's Media" by Eric Klinenberg

and

"The Shock Doctrine" by Naomi Klein

God Bless America!

-- Kristin

Saying Good-bye Is Never Easy...

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:50:00 +0000

On July 4th, our beloved pet, D.O.G., passed away. His death was sudden and unexpected and everyone in our family feels deep grief in the loss of this wonderful dog. D.O.G. came into our lives eight years ago and touched us all with his playfulness and loyalty. He would do the "crab walk" forever wanting "butt scratches" and would roll outside in the dirt and sunshine all day if allowed. Forever a puppy, D.O.G. filled our home with carefree happiness and unconditional love. He will be missed by everyone.

D.O.G. was lovingly buried yesterday at the base of a beautiful oak tree in our backyard where he will forever be in the shade in the place he loved the most - OUTSIDE!

Rest in peace, big puppy...

-- Kristin

More Watercolor Journaling... My Schmink Set

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sat, 17 May 2008 17:48:00 +0000

Here is another quick drawing done in yet another spiral bound sketch book with watercolor paper... I found a little Schminck set while I was in Florida recently and am really enjoying it... decided I should capture that little set!

I like how this turned out.. :)

-- Kristin

Watercolor Journaling and Happy Mother's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Mon, 12 May 2008 01:23:00 +0000

This weekend has been splendid! It started on Friday night and dinner with Gregg at Scopazzi's - the local Italian Restaurant in Boulder Creek. We can be seen there at least twice a month.

Saturday was my long awaited Watercolor Journaling class... I've been signed up since February and it was everything and more that I've been expecting! Pic above is of my most recent watercolor journal page entry, completed today after church..

It was a great day at church this morning and today marks one year that I've been attending. I wanted to remember the feeling... this page does just that for me - it brings back that warm feeling I had this morning at church!

My own mom is off in St. Augustine this weekend having fun... I was able to speak to her before she left. There are some other "moms" I reached out to today, also... there are so many in my thoughts and heart!

Happy Mother's Day!

--Kristin

New Speech Video

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Tue, 06 May 2008 16:20:00 +0000

Our Toastmaster club at Seagate recently hosted an Open House. This speech was given as part of that event and I think it is my best speech ever!

Let me know what you think!

-- Kristin

Rockin' Out in Boulder Creek!

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 18:31:00 +0000

Our neighbor, Mark, invited us over for movie night, rock band and brownies. We watched "I Am Legend" in his AMAZING home theatre (and it's a REAL theatre, not just a big TV)... and then after brownies and ice cream, we played ROCK BAND!

The video below is our last "performance"... and is the end to a REALLY fun night! Thanks, Mark!

Enjoy!

-- Kristin

Great Pic of Mom and I with Sophia

noreply@blogger.com (Kristin) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 21:21:00 +0000

This was taken in Tallahassee during my visit to Florida. It's a great pic of me, mom and Sophia..

-- Kristin