Recipe: Beef Stew

With all the snow falling here in Utah, and it is copious amounts compared to the last few years, I've felt strong cravings for my winter comfort foods. One of my favorites? Steaming, flavorful, succulent beef stew. Love the stuff. And it is, by far, best served with homemade bread, fresh out of the oven. Slather that with fresh butter and dip it in the beef stew . . . ahhh. As soon as I'm off bed rest, oh please only three more days, this is the very first thing I'm going to make. And chocolate chip butterscotch chip cookies. Ooh, ooh, and fudge. Mmmm, and corn bread. Yeah, I'm ready to stop lounging about. I've read close to 30 books. Watched copious amounts of television and movies. And slept, and slept and slept.

Anyway, I digress. Here's the recipe to Beef Stew which I developed over the years of my marriage:

Beef Stew

1 to 2 lbs. Stewing Beef
2 T. Extra Virgin Light Olive Oil
2 C. Boiling Water
1 t. Garlic Salt
1 t. Onion Powder or 1 small onion
½ t. Salt
1 t. Black Pepper
1 t. Emeril Lagasse’s Original Essence
2 Cubes Beef Bullion

Sear stewing beef in hot olive oil, for no more than 2 to 3 minutes, then place in a deep cooking pan.

Unwrap the 2 cubes of beef bullion and put into 2 cups boiling water and let dissolve. I like to put the beef bullion in saran wrap, fold it over, put that in a dish towel, fold that over and smash it with a hammer. Or you could go more high tech and use a pestle, I really want one of those.

Pour over the beef.

Sprinkle garlic salt, salt, black pepper and Emeril Lagasse’s Original Essence Seasoning over the stewing beef, covering every part. Cover and cook at a simmer for several three to four hours, occasionally adding water if the necessity arises.

Variation:

I like to add a couple of packets of brown gravy mix and let it simmer in that.

Great to serve with:

Crisp cucumbers and tomatoes marinated (1 to 2 hours) in Italian salad dressing
Homemade Bread

Happy Eating

Return to the Neighborhood.

From "We the People" Foundation

Do you wonder why our Founding Fathers chose a republic form of government rather than a pure democracy? Have you ever wondered why democracy in its purest form can be so dangerous? Well, thanks to a good friend, Maury, I received this wonderful declaration by the We the People Foundation . . . which organization liberals are coming to hate with everything in them.

The state of our nation, in this day and age, is very precarious and relies on those who are truly devoted to America, those who support the Constitution of the United States of America as a divine document rather than a document which fell short in communist principles and must be changed, to stand up and be heard.

The Declaration of Independence clearly states that those who can forestall the current dangers facing the nation, they are duty bound, both as Americans and as children of God, to stand up and effect that change.

I do not call for an armed revolution, but rather a revolution against apathy and despair. I ask each of you to stand and be counted for this nation as she was founded by God and not accept those who would decimate our republican form of government. I ask you to educate yourselves as to what will really save this nation from taking the same path all other destroyed nations have taken . . . to hold true to these "truths which are self-evident."

And as such, I am deeply inspire and moved by the following statement by the We the People Foundation.

by We the People Foundation

December 25, 2008
CONTINENTAL CONGRESS 2009

The People Draw the Line in the Sand

On this Christmas day, and faced with our daunting cause, we are reminded of scripture. In Paul’s letter to the Romans he wrote:

“….There is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. For he is God’s servant to do you good.

“….For he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute God’s wrath on him who practices evil, so be afraid…for he does not bear the sword in vain. For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing…” Romans 13:1-6

And from Jefferson we have:

"God who gave us life gave us liberty. And can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are a gift from God? That they are not to be violated but with His wrath? Indeed I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just, and that His justice cannot sleep forever." (excerpts are inscribed on the walls of the Jefferson Memorial in the nations capital) [Source: Merrill . D. Peterson, ed., Jefferson Writings, (New York: Literary Classics of the United States, Inc., 1984), Vol. IV, p. 289. From Jefferson's Notes on the State of Virginia, Query XVIII, 1781.]

Jefferson wasn’t the only Founder moved by such reasoning. They all knew the evils associated with a reliance on the whims of men, elected or otherwise, for individual Liberties and Freedoms.

Unanimously, in signing the Declaration, they all recognized that individual Liberties are endowed by “Nature’s God” and the “Creator,” and they all relied on the protection of “divine Providence” as they set forth to end Government’s violations of those Liberties, pledging to each other “our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.”

The Declaration of Independence embodies the profound, high-order principles of republican government: that all men are created with equal, unalienable Rights, that governments are formed by men to secure these Rights, and that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the People.

With America’s Charter secured, its “by-laws” followed.

In describing the purpose of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, Virginia delegate Edmund Randolph commented: “The general object was to provide a cure for the evils under which the United States labored; that in tracing these evils, to their origin, every man had found it in the turbulence and follies of democracy.”

Guided by the Creator and the Charter, with a single-mindedness of purpose, steering clear of democracy’s shoals, the Founders mapped a course for an enduring republican America that would limit government and maximize individual Freedom and Liberty.

Guided by the Creator and the Charter, the Founders adopted a Constitution that “guarantees to every State in this union a republican Form of Government.”

The Founders, like many scholars of their day, knew well that democracy, ruled as it is by men rather than law, will eventually sink all ships of State.

Professor Alexander Fraser Tyler, writing when the states were still colonies of Great Britain, explained why democracies always fail; “A Democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of Government. It can only exist until the voters discover they can vote themselves largess of the public treasury. From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidate promising the most benefits from the public treasury with the result that Democracy always collapses over a loose fiscal policy….”

John Marshall, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1801-1835, had this to say: “Between a balanced republic and a democracy, the difference is like that between order and chaos.”

John Adams warned: “Remember, democracy never last long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy that did not commit suicide.”

Historians, including American historian Charles Austin Beard (1874-1948) confirmed the Founders’ distaste for democracy as the vilest form of government; “At no time, at no place in solemn convention assembled, through no chosen agents, had the American people officially proclaimed the United States to be a democracy. The Constitution did not contain the word or any word lending countenance to it ….”

On the other hand, the Founders gave clear expression to the blessings of a republican form of government.

John Adams said, “You have rights antecedent to all earthly governments; rights that cannot be repealed or restrained by human laws; rights derived from the Great Legislator of the Universe.”

TO JETTISON THE CONSTITUTION IS TO SINK THE REPUBLIC

Without question, our Constitution has been abandoned by America’s elected and appointed officials and those whose water they carry (see, for instance, our previous article). Its violations are numerous and mounting with each newly elected Congress and President. In addition, as the record clearly shows that since 1995, each new Congress and President has arrogantly refused to respond to repeated Petitions for a Remedy to these Grievances, instead answering the People’s Petitions only with repeated injuries, playing both to the mob and to those who feed at the public financial trough.

America has transitioned from a Republic to a democracy even while the Constitution of the United States of America lies in plain sight.

2009: AMERICAN PATRIOTS' LAST LINE IN THE SAND

Despite the seeming desire of the Courts, the state and federal governments, the Electoral College Electors and the dominant media to let the unresolved matter of Mr. Obama’s eligibility quietly fade from the public consciousness, their refusal to attend to this crisis may have inadvertently manifest a casus belli around which the minority of Americans who still reverently value our nation’s Founding Principles and Constitution can rally.

For far too long, the People have endured escalating attacks upon the Rule of Law and the Constitution. Its precious, but fragile guarantees of Individual Rights, Freedom, Liberty and Justice have been compromised – ironically by the very public servants empowered to preserve and protect them.

As this Foundation has documented, there exists a long train of abuses and usurpations that have fundamentally undermined the essence of the Liberty of the People. [Sentence removed as source could not be located. CES]

And now our Republic faces the spectacle of a president-elect who steadfastly refuses to produce an original birth certificate conclusively establishing his legal status as a “natural born” Citizen as explicitly required by the very Constitution he will take an oath on January 20th to “preserve, protect and defend.”

We also face the horror of government officials, either so afraid of the People or so utterly corrupt and morally vacuous, that none will rise to enforce the Rule of Law.

Is this transgression against the natural born citizen clause of the Constitution not the “capstone” Grievance of our time?

Haven’t we, like our Founders, reached the tipping point where the threats to Life, Liberty and Property can no longer be tolerated? Dare we tolerate further these insults and attacks upon our Rights and our Freedoms?

WHAT MUST A FREE PEOPLE DO?

Last Sunday, WTP Chairman Bob Schulz, announced to a gathering of Patriots in Boston that the Foundation was preparing to organize a national meeting of delegates from each of the fifty states.

The purpose of the National Congress will be much the same as that modeled by our Founders: a limited number of chosen representatives of the People gathered together to freely and openly discuss the mounting violations of the Constitution and to decide on a course of action to confront the usurpers.

QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED

This historic gathering has been tentatively named the “Continental Congress 2009.”

Modeled after the very process of momentous deliberation taken by our Founders, representatives of the People will assemble once again in Philadelphia to lay claim to, and practically exercise, the Natural Rights of Popular Sovereignty and Self-Governance as articulated in our Declaration of Independence and guaranteed by the Constitution.

If this noble initiative moves to fruition, Continental Congress 2009 will convene to answer two questions critical to the future of the Republic and the preservation of Liberty: 1) Should the People begin a process of withdrawing their resources from those federally elected and appointed officials who have usurped the power of the People until their constitutional Grievances are Redressed and the Constitution is restored? and 2) Should the People immediately submit to their Governors and State legislators model statutes for the re-establishment of the constitutionally mandated, well-regulated State Militias?

As the delegates deliberate, discuss and debate, they will keep the People in their home states fully informed through daily updates on 50 Continental Congress websites – one for each State.

Eventually, when the delegates settle on an agreed course of action, and the People are asked to publicly endorse and participate in it, we will know if our cause would have the critical mass required to succeed.

In offering this proposal, our Foundation recognizes it shares much common ground with many Freedom organizations across the land. Indeed, we hope our offering may move the leaders of these many organizations to stand together, and work in concert toward this single objective so that we may succeed before our nation, and the Light of Liberty are irretrievably lost.

We would urge both those in positions of leadership and those individuals who can devote some effort in assisting this project to contact us (details below) and serve on a Continental Congress 2009 steering Committee.

The time has come to temporarily set aside the lesser issues of our lives and commit ourselves once again, to the cause of Liberty.

“If there must be trouble, let it be in my day, that my child may have peace.” Thomas Paine, The American Crisis, No. 1, December 19, 1776

“The cause of America is in a great measure the cause of all mankind.” Thomas Paine, Common Sense, 1776

IMMEDIATE FOCUS: DELEGATE SELECTION & FUND RAISING

The proceedings of the Continental Congress 2009 are planned to commence in late February or early March and will last at least two weeks until its work is complete. The process of nominating delegates will formally begin on January 1st. Details regarding the process of nominating qualified delegates to the convention will be released shortly, as will additional details regarding schedules, locations, etc.

Unless someone proposes a superior alternative, we believe Continental Congress 2009 should be held in Philadelphia. We have been negotiating with the Constitution Center for the 24/7 use of its Grand Hall. This would provide adequate space for 50 tables for the participating delegates from each of the 50 states., as well as 50 tables for observers from each of the 50 state legislatures. In addition, the Grand Hall provides adequate space for members of the public, media and government who may wish to silently observe the proceedings.

See www.constitutioncenter.org, then click on “Facility Rentals.”

Our cost for the Grand Hall facility (alone) would be $14,000 for two weeks, plus $1,000 per day thereafter, which includes some basic audio/visual and technology services including the use of the facility’s video large “wall” also located in the Grand Hall.

Other costs associated with executing the historic event would include those for stenographic/transcription services, video recording and webcasting services. In addition, there will be the cost of transporting, housing and feeding those delegates who may not be able to pay their own way.

Initially, we must all now focus on two principal tasks: Delegate selection and fund raising.

To this end, Bob Schulz would like to meet with potential delegates and those in a position to write checks to one or more of the companies we will be contracting with to supply the needed goods and services. Note: Donors will have the option of writing checks directly to the service company or to the (tax deductible) WTP Foundation.

Here is Bob’s tentative schedule of regional meetings to take place across the nation beginning the first week in January in preparation for the convening of the Continental Congress 2009 in Philadelphia.

Please note that while Bob is ready, willing and able to undertake the rigors of such a schedule, the trip itself and its success will depend entirely on grass roots support.

Beginning with the earliest meetings in Texas we need to quickly assemble “advance” teams of self-starters to form on their own and assist with the required tasks of locating each meeting hall, informing other patriots, organizations and the general public of the time and location of each meeting, identifying and contacting potential delegates, identifying and contacting people in a position to donate relatively large sums of money for the cause and to arrange for such donors to personally meet with Bob, as necessary.

Unfortunately, due to the myriad schedule requirements, the regional locations, the dates, planned meeting times, and planned routes are to a large extent not flexible.

Bob needs the assistance of one or more Patriots to contact, evaluate and pre-select venues for each of the Saturday and Sunday meetings currently planned. Meeting rooms should planned for approximately 35 guests to be seated classroom style, if possible, in or near an inexpensive hotel where Bob could spend the night. For weekday evening meetings, plans should accommodate 20 guests, seated theater style in or near a hotel where Bob can lodge for the night.

Bob will be on his way to Texas on Friday, December 26th. He will be available by email at Bob@givemeliberty.org and by cell phone at 518-361-8153. The office in New York will be manned as well.

Again, here is Bob's tentative regional meeting schedule.

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

Please pray for the success of Continental Congress 2009 and for the peaceful restoration of our Constitution and Republic. Our Founders bequeathed to us a Divinely inspired plan for Earthly governance so that the children of the Creator might endlessly enjoy His bounty of Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. On this occasion, we pray that you are, as we, committed to altogether reclaiming and restoring the most precious Light of Liberty.

Please add to your list of New Year’s Resolutions your commitment to work for the success of Continental Congress 2009.

We will publish web updates on a frequent basis.

Again, we wish you Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

NOTE: Some of the information for this update came from the pocket-sized booklet published by Benedict D. LaRosa in 1999 titled, DEMOCRACY OR REPUBLIC, WHICH IS IT?

As a fund raiser, WTP is once again offering copies of this pamphlet. Click here.


Click here to donate to obtain you 2009 Freedom Calendars. Please remember that donations to the 501(c)3 Foundation are tax deductible.

Recipe for a Happy Life

Today's recipe will be a little, okay a lot, different than usual. Over the last week I've been recovering surgery while at the same time my husband's body begin rejecting his new kidney. Unbeknownst to us, this was not an immediate death sentence.

Three days before I was to enter the hospital for what is termed "major surgery" my husband sat in his hospital bed and was told his body had begun rejection of his transplanted kidney. We were devastated, who wouldn't be? My husband had only been healthy since April, when the transplant occurred, and a few short months later it appeared as if life was going to return to an endless cycle of illness, dialysis and hospital stay after hospital stay.

Within an hour, Alvin's main nephrologist entered the room and explained the treatment he was going to undergo, beginning that day, that could not only stop the rejection but reverse it. We were stunned. Someone, somewhere had one day had a passing thought, "I wonder would happen if I replaced all the antibodies in a transplant patient . . ." and lo, this many years later, there is a highly successful treatment which stops rejection in its tracks, most of the time. And, thank God, this is one of those times.

With me in one hospital and Alvin in another, we had a delightful time texting one another, speaking on the phone and my sweet husband, sneaking out of UVRMC and coming to the AF hospital to spend stolen hours with me. Very sweet, poignant and funny, all at the same time.

We are both in recovery mode and our energy levels are at an all time low. But here's the point of the article, talk about burying the lead, we didn't let it get us down. Christmas was days away, we were both in the hospital, different hospitals, (and we're young too!) and it could have been a dismal holiday season for us. But nope, we chose to make the most of everything. The giggling which occurred as Alvin was sneaking in and out of the hospital, hustling to be back for shift change . . . very funny. Christmas Day, although our mellowest ever, was spent watching new movies, sleeping, reading new books, sleeping, eating and sleeping. (Tristi brought us Christmas dinner.) Both of us took it easy and just enjoyed each others company. Laughing, holding hands . . . just being in love and happy to be together.

Why? Why would we take an optimistic view of the events? I've had time to think about it and it really boils down to one simple thing: life. It's really that simple. Life is going to throw curves at us. Some are the easy smooth kind and some are the kind that literally rock your world.

Like everyone else, Alvin and I have had our share of curves. With an eye toward the eternities, we decided long ago to never let the little things, or the big ones, get us down. We wake up every day and the sun is still in the sky. We can choose to dwell on the worst life can dish out, weeping and wailing about how unfair everything is or . . . we can decide to take each challenge, triumph over it and move on. That second alternative is full of life, hope and breathless expectation.

The recipe for a happy life is to overcome, no matter how difficult, everything and stand as a child at the top of the heap, king of the hill! Or queen, as the case may be. Relish life. Cherish those you love. Remember those waiting on the other side of the veil. Remember our Father in Heaven loves you more than you can ever know. Remember there is more to life than the grind of daily living. There is life in all its beautiful , glorious color, and remember, above all us, life is a stepping stone to the eternities. Something we fought for, something we yearned for, something we succeeded in achieving . . . all we have to do is triumph over this too and we're on our way home, the one we left so long ago.

So live, breathe and love . . . and don't forget to laugh along the way.

Return to the Neighborhood.

The Bethlehem Innkeepr

Tom Osmond, a new blogging friend, emailed this to me and gave me permission to reproduce it on my blog. I find it to be beautiful and insightful. Please enjoy:

The Bethlehem innkeeper never got a second chance to house the holy family, but those who seek to follow the babe born in his stable will not only make room for Christ, they will emulate his light, his love and his care for others.

That is the message I desire to share with you at this time.

The innkeeper missed his greatest opportunity the night Christ was born.

"Long years afterward, it would not do any good for him to repeat over and over again the words, 'If only I had known who they were, I would have made room for them.'"

Today, many enjoy homes with rooms for eating, sleeping, playing, sewing and TV, "but no room for Christ,". While many desire to make room in their hearts for the Savior,"no matter how successful we have been thus far. . . .I am confident we would all wish to do better." This Christmas season is the time to do so.

Life's busyness requires a "conscious committed effort to bring Christ into our homes and lives." And while opportunities to give of self are limitless, "they are also perishable. There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved."

Someone told me of visiting a care center to see five elderly women he knew, (Ka Nooo) and after enjoying their company, he noticed one woman looking out the window, waiting for her son to come. "I wondered if he would, for there had been other Christmas seasons when he had never even called."

Those who take the time to seek out those in need emulate Christ. "As we do serve him, we will not forfeit our opportunity, as did the innkeeper of old -- to make time for him in our lives and room for him in our hearts." said by LDS Church President Thomas S. Monson during the Christmas Devotional at the Conference Center in Salt Lake City last Sunday, December 7, 2008.

President Henry B. Eyring, first counselor in the First Presidency spoke of Christmas traditions, including amateur family pageants that re-create the story of Christ's birth. After a few years, they began a pageant with Samuel the Lamanite, standing to testify on the American continent of Christ's birth in Bethlehem. (read about Samuel the Lamanite in the Book of Mormon)
Over time they added a "disbelieving crowd, armed with foil balls to throw at him as he stood above them." As the members of the angry mob grew stronger and more accurate over the years, "we had to remind them forcefully that Samuel could not be hit because he was God's protected servant," he said, drawing laughter from thousands in the Conference Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

He said he wished he'd taken time to explain to those who played lambs in the nativity that the lamb of God would be Christ himself, who "volunteered to come down from royal courts on hight to be born in a humble stable. By his life and sacrifice he gave us all the gift of resurrection after death, the certainty that we would live again."

Those who wish to receive Christ's gift "must try with all our hearts and strength to do what he did. We cannot give the great gift he gave to others," in the atonement for sin, "But we can try to do his works and help him serve others as he would serve them."

One bishop in Rexburg, Idaho, did so many years ago as he and his family often fed, sheltered and even clothed needy travelers who passed near their home because "they welcomed strangers in need." Family Christmas traditions vary, but they will have some things in common," including drawing hearts to the Savior and acts of kindness.

As a child in Germany, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf recalled celebrating Advent, the season of light, and walking through the streets on Christmas Eve with a parent, seeing "how the smallest light penetrated the dark night."

Upon returning home, he found the other parent had decorated the tree and lit it with real candles. "Perhaps it is no wonder that I have always associated the Christmas season with light," said President Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency.

Modern Christmas celebrations, with their focus on material gifts, can "detract from the simple dignity of the season and distract us from celebrating the birth of our Savior in a meaningful way." The economic challenges that may cause some to scale back their gift giving this year may "be a blessing in disguise," he said. "I know from personal experience that the most memorable Christmases can be those that are the most humble."

Expensive gifts aren't required to make Christmas meaningful, but giving to those in need creates memories for those who serve others as Christ did. He recounted a story from Elder Glen L. Rudd, an emeritus general authority, who told of taking his own children out on Christmas Eve to gather gifts for a mother and children in desperate need, including a small boy who simply requested a bowl of oatmeal.

That night as the family gathered around their own dinner table, "they gave thanks that the little boy had received his bowl of oatmeal."

God chose to "honor the birth of his son as Jesus was found in the simplicity of a lowly stable. On that holy night, angels appeared not to the rich but to shepherds. The Christ child was born not in a mansion but in a manger," wrapped "not in silk but in swaddling clothes."

"May we remember the humble dignity of his birth, his gifts and his life. May we, through our simple acts of kindness, charity and compassion, fill the world with the light of his love."

Compiled by Tom Osmond

Recipe: Apple Crisp

Don't you just love apple crisp? I absolutely adore it and love sitting down the table with a steaming peace of apple crisp and ice cold vanilla ice cream. It's an unbeatable combination.

Apple crisp was not something my mother made as I was growing up. I was introduced to it when I first began attending Ricks College in Rexburg, ID. My parents bought me a semester pass to the cafeteria and that is where I first ran across this nectar from the gods.

Okay, I'm probably exaggerating a little . . . a lot . . . but it really is one of my favorite desserts. In fact, I have a lot of favorite desserts, so I go out of my way to not make them a lot. When Alvin and I start craving desserts too much we start inviting people to dinner so that the two of us are restricted to one serving each. Our guests take care of the rest. If they didn't . . . holy cow, I cannot imagine how huge we would be.

Dessert is made at my house, once a week, and we go way out of our way to share. All that being said, here's the apple crisp recipe I've adapted to our liking.

Apple Crisp

Preheat oven to 350°

Peel and slice:

8 large Granny Smith Apples (Jonathans or Jonagolds will work as well.)
Place apple slices in a large, lightly greased, pan.

Combine:

1 C. Brown Sugar
1 t. Cinnamon
1½ t. Nutmeg
¼ t. Cloves
¼ t. Allspice
¼ t. Ginger

Sprinkle apple slices with half of this mixture.

Combine:

1 C. White Sugar
1 C. Flour
1 Egg
½ t. Salt
1 t. Baking Powder
½ C. Melted Butter

Spread over apple slices.

Sprinkle the remainder of the brown sugar mixture over contents.

Slip into oven and bake for 40 Minutes. Remove from oven, let cool and serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Happy Eating.

Return to the Neighborhood.

Eye Fixed to the Dream

I was taught a powerful lesson this past weekend. I watched a young football team seem to give up before game day even arrived. The coach chose the strongest player on the team, who also happened to be the team's natural leader and challenged him to a seemingly impossible task, and then blindfolded him. At that point, many would think the player was being asked to double an already difficult task, and given an extremely difficult handicap.

Asked to do the death crawl but, instead of ten yards, he was told to death crawl to the 50 yard line. The death crawl is when a player crawls on his hands and feet from the end zone across designated yardage ... with another player on his back. It's tough, extremely tough and not a task for the fainthearted.

The coach told the young player that he wanted him to pull from the heart. And he blindfolded him so he wouldn't give up before he arrived at the 50 yard line. This young player, with a big strong player on his back, crawled the full length of the football field, from one end zone to another. When he felt as if he could go no further, sure he'd reached the 20, and then the 30, the coach continued to push him, encourage him and foot by foot, he made it into the end zone.

Why? Why could that young man carry a 165 pound football player 100 yards when he believed he couldn't? When the coach told him what he'd done, the young man was amazed, and completely exhausted.

And herein lies the lesson. How often do we stop short of a goal because we see obstacles, both those imagined and real? How often do we fail ... because we expected to because of what we see around us? And the most important question, what on earth could we possibly accomplish if we ceased stopping ourselves short of the goal?

Is your dream to write the next great American novel? What have you done to further that dream? Do you read? Do you attend writers conferences? Do you associate with other writers (there are many writers groups on the internet)? And most of all, have you sat down at your computer or with a notebook and written those first words? Or does it all seem like too much?

One yard at a time and anything is possible.

Is your dream to soar high into space, exploring a frontier where so few will ever go? Have you gone to college? Have you joined the military? Have you persevered and pushed through the trials to get those grades? Have you immersed yourself in learning?

Again, anything taken step by step is completely possible.

I could go through dream after dream, but each is as individual as the person who has them. One should never succumb to the minutiae of life and abandon one's dreams. No matter what it is, there is always some aspect of it you will be able to accomplish, if not the whole enchilada.

Perhaps what we are talking about is blind faith. You've developed your skills. You continually work to better yourself, as a human being and in your chosen dreams. Every day, you devote a part of your day to the pursuance of those dreams. You do everything within your power, every day, and you leave the rest of it to the Lord.

Like the lesson this young football player learned, the impossible is achievable when we don't stop ourselves. When we can't see the end, we can't see the restrictions or obstacles. We just keep pushing forward, pulling from deep within our hearts when we want to give up. From the heart is where the passion for something comes, and from the heart is where you will find the drive to continue on ... no matter what.

So, put on your proverbial blindfold, fix your goal in your mind and push forward, yard by yard and you will succeed.

Sunday Morning Funnies

Theirs: Liberals -- Ours: Conservatives

"Those won't get in my way."

Ah, life in America.

What I Like About the Christmas Season

Since it's my favorite time of year, I thought I would write about the things I love most about Christmas.

First the lights. There's something about the tasteful and beautiful display of Christmas lights that speaks to my soul. My favorite place during this season are the Lights at Temple Square. The work begins far before the Christmas season starts and it provides delight and awe for millions as they travel from afar to experience this incredible display of beauty and wonder. As I wander through Temple Square, the trees and displays are lit with a brilliance I can only imagine is an imitation of the heavens in full light near God.

I love to drive the streets as darkness falls and see how people have decorated their homes. I'm not really into overkill, but I absolutely adore the feelings of light, hope and beauty will well within me as I gaze at these different displays.

There is a neighbor, a few streets over, whom I call the "Christmas Guy." Apparently, he used to be a window dresser at Macey's in New York City. Whether that is true or not, I don't know. What I do know, is that I anxiously await the Christmas season every year for the chance to drive by his house, pull to the side of the street and gaze at the wonder that are the displays in the two front rooms displayed through the picture windows. There's just something about the knowledge of the amazing amount of work that goes into these beautiful Christmas displays that touches me so deeply. So, this is also one of my favorite things.

Another of my favorite things is the feeling of love and sharing which is fostered at this time of year. I truly do wish that everyone could continue this feeling around the year. Yes, I know atheists are vehemently opposed to these feelings of love, support and gratefulness we have for one another and credit to our God. But I really do wish, feeling a little pollyanna here, that we could all just be nice. I love the feeling when the doorbell rings and a neighbor appears bearing gifts. It's not really the gifts, but the fact that they thought enough of the Salimas to bring a gift to our door. Happy faces, laughter, joy . . . yeah, I really love that about this season.

Caroling is one of my favorite things. I was in a teenager in Colorado and caroling was something we did every single Christmas. I'm really not fond of the cold and the memories of feet similar to blocks of ice tended to mar any joy I may have felt during the season. But then I moved to Utah and it came to be a fun thing to do, where it wasn't as cold, knock on friends and neighbors doors and sing Christmas Carols to them. Seeing the smiles on their faces is really priceless. Now, the carolers come to my door and it is something I enjoy immensely.

Christmas trees. Oh my word, I LOVE Christmas trees. There are currently six gracing my front room. Really.

I love to turn off all the lights in my house, lay on the couch and just steep myself in the feelings all those Christmas trees and lights foster in me.

In the craziness this world is, I love to sit calmly in my home and sweetly enjoy the peace those tiny little lights give me. There's something about one little mini light, times a thousand, that can make the very impossible seem entirely possible. Alone, that little light can do nothing to stave off the darkness. But together, with thousands of others of its kind, it can light a room, light Temple Square, even light the world. Not unlike what we can do, if we only stand together, shoulder to shoulder with Him, the one we celebrate at this time of year.

How loud can be one voice, when joined by thousands, tens of thousands, even millions.?Then a chorus can speak and be heard. This is what Christmas does for me, it makes everything possible. Even with today's economy. Even with the administration soon to come. Even with all the hate being showered upon Christians. This is Christmas, and we can make our stand.

For the most important part of Christmas is Jesus Christ Himself. He who descended from His throne on high to be born in a lowly manger to save all mankind. Because of Jesus Christ we have the Atonement, at-one-ment, the ability to repent and return to our heavenly home. Because of Jesus Christ the bands of death were irrevocably broken and the grave can no longer hold her dead.

Because of Jesus Christ and the example He showed us through His life, we know there is a better way to behave. We know what sin is and what it isn't. We understand the grand scheme of life and the eternities. We know the possibilities . . . if we're willing to do our part.

Because of Jesus Christ we know life is eternal. We know that families can be forever, if we are willing to work to make it so. We know there is so much more, so much more than the world would have us understand . . . all because He condescended to come into mortality and show us the way, pay the price for our eternal souls and simply love us.

He loves us enough to shoulder our pain. He loves us enough to lift our burdens. He loves us enough to stand with us even though we stumble and fall. He loves us enough to carry us when we can no longer walk by ourselves.

This is really what Christmas is all about. It is about the birth of He who is our Redeemer. Little wonder it is my favorite time of year.

Return to the Neighborhood.

Christmas Under Attack, Again. How tired!

Christmas, of course, is under attack again. The grinches known as atheists, hate the idea of anyone celebrating God, His birth and the hope and promise brought by His entrance in the world. We celebrate this incredible gift every year on December 25th and it is, without question, my absolute favorite time of year.

Anywhere there is a governor brave enough to allow a nativity scene created in the state capitol, the self-acclaimed, godless atheists (yes, I know, double negative) insist on posting a sign stating the following:

"At this season of the Winter Solstice may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds."

It hurts to even put these words on my blog for they are bigoted, slanderous, hateful, offensive and insulting. And they denigrate the God I love and worship.

Believing in Jesus Christ opens my heart to the understanding that freedom of choice is an eternal principle. With that choice, you will find nowhere where atheists are being banned and stopped from exhibiting their disbelief. Nowhere will you find Christians demanding that aethists believe in God or else. Nowhere will you find signs stating: Aethism is a system of disbelief which fosters intolerance, ignorance and feebleminded thinking which drives nations to utter and complete destruction.

If you don't want to celebrate Christmas, don't. I'm not forcing you to participate in this time of joy and remembrance. But don't rain, or snow as the case may be, on my parade.

Throughout history, Satan, through his mortal minions, has attempted to crush that one and inviolate principle: Freedom. I challenge one and all to study history and show me one nation who survived after turning their backs on God?

Look at America. The cry for the denial of God grows louder and louder every year. Prayer has been abandoned in the schools. The 10 Commandments, a good rule of thumb for every society, has been banned in schools and public places. Christians are ridiculed and attacked daily. Honesty, patriotism and morality are held up as old fashioned and worthless. And where does America stand? At the very precipice of total disaster. Yeah, abandoning God has worked really well for us.

Although all that stands are likenesses of Joseph, Mary and the Baby Jesus, atheists find that offensive and worthy of attacking the essence of who Christians are. They can deny God, but He still exists. They can attempt to stop Christians from worshiping Him and celebrating His birth but, unlike the Hitler they emulate, they cannot stop us.

If they don't like God . . . here's a familiar refrain from me . . . move to a communist nation which has banned God. For with the banning of God comes the complete and utter loss of freedom. And I am not willing to abandon my God or my freedom.

And so at this time of year, I will embrace my God and celebrate His birth with peace, harmony and love for mankind. How is that bad exactly? I will celebrate redemption at the hands, and ultimate and excruciating sacrifice, of a loving, forgiving God. For Jesus Christ is my Savior and Redeemer and only through Him will I find, not only eternal peace and joy, but temporal as well.

Merry Christmas everyone. And if Christmas offends you, don't read this blog. You're going to hate the rest of it.

From the Book of Luke in the New Testament:

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

A Healthy Christmas

A healthy Christmas? Say it ain't so! That would be against God and country . . . or is it?

Let's face facts, from Thanksgiving to New Year's, havoc is wreaked on the average diet. Oh, you can vow to eat healthy, stay away from the sweets and NEVER walk down the holiday and candy aisles at the grocery store. But then the doorbell rings and there's your neighbor with luscious treats of one variety or another. And day after day, friends and neighbors show up and the treats pile up on the table until you'd have to have a will of cast iron proportions to not succumb.

So what's the answer?

Well, there are several options which I personally employ to keep the Christmas gain down to zero to five pounds, maximum!

1. Share. There are families who are seriously without. The quickest way to finding out who is struggling is to check with your bishop or relief society president and see who could stand a little Christmas delight. Keep a small amount of the treats you really enjoy, and give everything else away.

2. Throw a party. Save the treats as they come and when you have a good amount, throw a party and share the wealth.

3. Let it be known you prefer fruit! Spread the word that you're trying REALLY hard to be healthy and would appreciate treats, if people REALLY want to bring them, of the orange, apple, grapefruit (unless there's a transplant patient in the house) variety.

4. Eat first. Before indulging in any treats, eat your five meals a day . . . three main meals and two healthy treats (i.e. one hard boiled egg and one apple) before indulging in that fudge, divinity, brownies, candy . . . you won't be able to indulge much.

Then there's the most difficult one of all:

5. Give it all away! This one really hurts and I've yet to accomplish it. I usually need a taste of each treat but I'm trying really hard this year to simply say "no" and give the treats to people whose metabolism keeps them slim or trim. Yeah, those were the days.

Oh yeah, one more thing, exercise. Do not stop exercising during the holidays. That's a very, very bad idea. If you can keep up a healthy level of exercise during the holiday, your body will continue to burn efficiently.

If you can exercise some control and implement one or all of the above tips, then you should be in relatively good shape to survive the holidays unscathed.

Good Luck!

Return to the Neighborhood.

Life is so Weird!

We have a communist about to take office . . . Life is weird. Although I've noticed his tune has changed quite a bit since he started getting daily security briefings. Even other nations of the world, and I truly do hate to use them as references, are wondering how a man who can't prove he's a natural-born American citizen is the new president of the United States . . . Life is weird.

Mormons are being attacked at every turn by homosexuals and their supporters who are using assault, terrorism, vandalism, extortion, threats and more to punish Mormons who comprised 4% of the vote in California who supported Proposition 8. Of course, these cowards know that the Mormon Church will turn the other cheek, asking its members to do the same, so said cowards can be lawless and cowardly at will, because law enforcement isn't stopping them either. I really do have a sincere question. We can't be scared into changing our beliefs and we're way more scared of God than you . . . more accurately, more worried about disappointing Him than anything you think. Do you really think this lawless, cowardly behavior is going to draw anyone to your side who wasn't already there? So you have Hollywood on your side. Big whup! Hollywood isn't exactly a beacon of righteousness, goodness and patriotism.

Hollywood, because of the passage of Proposition 8, is whining about equality and morality, or lack thereof, screaming that religion is evil and those who believe in the God of the Holy Bible are narrow-minded, bigoted, self-aggrandizing . . . uh, I can't think of anymore, but you get the point. So Hollywood, who breaks the 10 Commandments a million different ways on a daily basis, oddly enough, is obssessed with the end of the world, the decimation of the human species, aliens capturing and dominating earth . . . haven't they figured out when God returns there's going to be a "come to Jesus" moment unlike anything they've experienced and the end of the world is the last thing they want, because life as they know it will be over. Life is weird.

Life is just plain weird. I feel like I'm living in the Twilight Zone. Pseudo Americans have taken over the nation. The Constitution of the United States of America that I completely love and defend, is being attacked at every turn, including by our president-elect. This grand document which founded the greatest nation in the world and provided the framework for a government which has lasted over two centuries is being called old-fashioned, of a bygone era and dead. This Constitutions which was used as a basis for 80+ other constitutions across the world is under the worst assault it has ever been under. Life is freakin' weird.

On the up side, Christmas is coming. Oh yeah, I forgot. Christmas is objectionable too. Silly me.

Well get this. I am a devout Christian, fierce American patriot, devoted to God, clinging to my guns, Christmas celebrating woman in the heart of the Rockies. So here's my plan. Give California over to the illegals and the gays . . . oh wait, yeah I forgot. Already done. Toss in Massachusetts, New York and one other coastal state of their choice and leave the rest of us alone. When your states dissolve into chaos and lawlessness, don't look at us. You got what you wanted. The ability to live your lives with no rules.

I know, not much cheek turning there. I'm trying, but unless I quit watching the news my fires are going to continue being stoked by the actions of all these groups and individuals.

I won't stop being a Christian.

I won't stop being a true American.

I won't stop defending the Constitution.

I won't stop standing up for what I believe in.

I won't stop honoring my ancestors, and the ancestors of others, and their sacrifices.

I won't stop supporting the U.S. military unless they turn on the American people at the behest of a corrupt president.

I won't stop. Period.

All that being said, I have to get back to writing. I have a manuscript due.

Taxes, taxes and more taxes

My cool brother sent me this great email. I read through it and loved it. I find it extremely appropriate for the upcoming administration which intends to tax us into bankruptcy and drive the nation, financially, into the grave.

So we start with a poem and then move on to the facts:

Tax his land,
Tax his bed,
Tax the table
At which he's fed.

Tax his tractor,
Tax his mule,
Teach him taxes
Are the rule.

Tax his work,
Tax his pay,
He works for peanuts
Anyway!

Tax his cow,
Tax his goat,
Tax his pants,
Tax his coat.

Tax his ties,
Tax his shirt,
Tax his work,
Tax his dirt.

Tax his tobacco,
Tax his drink,

Tax him if he
Tries to think.

Tax his cigars,
Tax his beers,
If he cries
Tax his tears.

Tax his car,
Tax his gas,
Find other ways
To tax his ass.

Tax all he has
Then let him know
That you won't be done
Till he has no dough.

When he screams and hollers,
Then tax him more,
Tax him till
He's good and sore.

Then tax his coffin,
Tax his grave,
Tax the sod in
Which he's laid.

Put these words
upon his tomb,
' Taxes drove me to my doom...'

When he's gone,
Do not relax,
It's time to apply
The inheritance tax.

Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Dog License Tax
Excise Taxes
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel Permit Tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Gross Receipts Tax
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax
Inventory Tax
IRS Interest Charges IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax

Medicare Tax
Personal Property Tax
Privilege Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Service Charge Tax
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Tax
Sales Tax
Recreational Vehicle Tax
School Tax

State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone Federal Excise Tax
Telephone Federal Universal Service Fee Tax
Telephone Federal, State & Local Surcharge Taxes
Telephone Minimum Usage Surcharge Tax
Telephone Recurring and Non-recurring Charges Tax
Telephone State and Local Tax
Telephone Usage Charge Tax
Use Tax
Utility Taxes

Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft Registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax

STILL THINK THIS IS FUNNY?

Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago, and our nation was the most prosperous in the world.

We had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world, and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.

What in the hell happened? Can you spell 'politicians!' And I still have to 'press 1' for English!?!?!?!?

I hope this goes around THE USA at least 100 times!!!!! YOU can help it get there!!!!

GO AHEAD - - - BE AN AMERICAN !!!

American Thinker: It's Time to Speak Out Against the "Mormon Boycott"

American Thinker, one of my favorite blogs to visit, has posted another great article, this time on the boycott and persecution of Mormon as a result of the passage of Proposition 8. Before you read the article I thought I'd share what I've been doing. Every blog or website who lists businesses and people to boycott . . . oh yeah, I'm using those lists to support these businesses and people. I have to thank the lunatic side for pointing them out to me. I never would have had the time to track down businesses owned by Mormons. Isn't it interesting how the 1st Amendment is being trampled on by the homosexual community.

Normally I'd change the font, but I want you to have all the links included in the article. I urge you to support these businesses and people the best way you can.

So here's what William A. Jacobson over at American Thinker had to say:

Supporters of gay marriage have reacted with anger at the passage of California Proposition 8, which amended the California state constitution to provide that only marriages that fit the traditional definition (one man, one woman) will be recognized. The resulting protest movement has devolved into anti-Mormon bigotry which has been met with silence by liberal civil rights groups. The anti-Mormon fervor has become so nasty, and is growing at such a pace, that it is time to speak out against the "Mormon boycott."

The use of boycotts in support of gay marriage, including by some law professors, preceded the passage of Prop. 8. These boycotts, which aim at suppressing political speech, are distinct from the boycotts of the black civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s. The civil rights boycotts sought not to suppress speech, but to provide access to goods and services by targeting those people withholding the goods and services.

Regardless of whether one supports the use of boycotts in the Prop. 8 context, the targeting of Mormons is gross hypocrisy considering that other groups, such as Blacks and Latinos, likely were the decisive electoral factor. A persuasive argument can be made that Mormons have been singled out because they are a relatively small group with political power mostly in one state. The irony of singling out a religious group which has itself been the victim of discrimination appears lost on anti-Prop. 8 boycott groups.

The anti-Prop. 8 boycott efforts have not been limited to Mormons, but Mormons have been the primary focus of public vitriol and at the center of the boycott movement. The evidence is mounting daily that the "Mormon boycott" efforts of pro-gay marriage groups have gone too far, and have devolved into anti-Mormon hate speech.

While the web is filled with hate speech by fringe elements directed at many groups, the anti-Mormon efforts are openly embraced and promoted by a wide range of anti-Prop. 8 groups. Anti-Mormon hate speech no longer is on the fringe, it is at the heart of the post-election anti-Prop. 8 campaign. The examples are too numerous to list completely. This sampling reflects the breadth and increasing scope of post-election anti-Mormon activities:

• The creation of a boycott list of Mormon-owned hotels. The creator of the list states as follows: "I personally won't do business with any Marriott hotels, as they are owned by Mormons. I'm done with this shit. They just use the money against us."
• Additional calls for a boycott of all Mormons: "While much ado is being made about the overwhelming support of prop 8 by black voters in California, there is little ado being made about getting even with the Mormons...."
• A boycott of the entire state of Utah because of the high percentage of Mormons, and other efforts targeting Mormons as "hate's banker, and we need to make sure that their moral bankruptcy becomes a fiscal one as well."
• Protests at Mormon churches around the country, including New York City, Salt Lake City, and Los Angeles.
• Postings on Daily Kos and elsewhere calling for boycott of Mormon owned businesses: "Businesses owned by Mormons, who tithe to the Church, should also be boycotted. Large amounts of Church income comes from tithings. Vote with your wallets! Every dollar less that you give to a tithed Mormon is a dollar less that can be tithed and spent on anti-gay activity."
• Postings on YouTube of blatantly anti-Mormon videos calling on people to "Boycott the Utah Hate State and the Mormons."
• The creation of high profile websites devoted to portraying Mormons as having betrayed the U.S. by taking control of the Boy Scouts and other devices: "The Mormon people have been able to flourish because of this country's generous spirit. But now, history has reversed, and it is the Mormons who have become the oppressor."
• The production of an anti-Mormon musical by the creators of South Park, which is expected to start rehearsals soon.
• Calls not to tip Mormon waiters: "Now do not tip, hire, or do any business with a Mormon. 10% of their income goes to the church that worked tirelessly to take the civil rights away from people. They are a Nazi organization who only what their point of view followed. I asked my waiter if he were a Mormon, when he said he was I did not tip him, telling him, I was sorry but I can not support bigotry."
• Suggestions that Mormon businesses that do not wish to be harassed should post signs in their windows against Prop. 8: "Any business, Mormon or otherwise, can take the simple step of posting a sign on the premises urging the repeal of Prop 8, or make a public statement against it."
• Calls to fire a Mormon employed by the American Jewish Congress because he supported Prop. 8.
• The forced resignation of the Mormon director of the Los Angeles Film Festival for support of Prop. 8.
• The investigation by the State of California of the Mormon Church's tax exempt status, even though religious organizations routinely support or oppose political causes without losing their exempt status.
• A hotel in New Mexico luring visitors away from Utah by using a web address that incorporates the words "mormon-boycott-utah."
• A call to boycott businesses, including Macy's and Nordstrom, which plan to open stores at a shopping mall owned by the Mormon church: "The Mormon Church came after our rights, and if we don't stop them, they will be back again and again."
• A call to boycott businesses which have Mormons in senior positions: "Universely [sic], we need to avoid putting any more money into the Church's coffers by boycotting all companies where a Mormon church member holds an officer's position or a large majority interest."
• Efforts to create and distribute lists of businesses "either owned by the Church, owned by Mormons, having a Mormon in a high executive position, or generally benefiting Mormons," including on Facebook and elsewhere.
• The boycott of Mormon business has been likened to a war: "There is a war cry being sounded in gay communities all across America - Boycott Mormon owned businesses. This is a war cry that should be heeded."

The singling out of Mormons, and the hateful nature of the boycott, is not coincidental. Prop. 8 is being used as an excuse to vent pent-up anger at the Mormon Church, and the traditional lifestyle of Mormons. With each passing day, it seems that the web is filled with more and more hate speech directed at Mormons. As others have noted, the attacks on Mormons would not be tolerated if directed at other religious or ethnic groups.

What is most disturbing is that there has been complete silence from groups that normally defend religious freedom. The Anti-Defamation League has not stepped forward to defend Mormons against the current boycotts, even though the ADL has spoken out against anti-Mormon hate crimes in the past.

The silence of the ADL and other Jewish groups is unconscionable. Economic boycotts of goods and academics have been condemned as veiled anti-semitism by ... the ADL.

In the end, the supporters of gay marriage who engage in anti-Mormon hate speech will realize that they have damaged their own cause. Lashing out at others and engaging in religious bigotry does not constitute an argument in favor of gay marriage.

Regardless of one's position on gay marriage, it is time to speak out against the "Mormon boycott." There simply is no one else who will, if we don't.

William A. Jacobson is Associate Clinical Professor of Law at Cornell Law School in Ithaca, NY, and author of the Legal Insurrection Blog. The views expressed here are his own, and not on behalf of the university.

Recipe: Ye Olde Family Fudge Recipe

This recipe has been in my family for many, many decades, possibly even over a century. There's something about Christmastime that brings out the need for some of Aunt Shirley's fudge. Not sure what it is, by like Thanksgiving bring the need for Lemon Meringue Pie, Christmas brings that bone deep craving for homemade fudge . . . completely from scratch.

It is the rockinest fudge, I kid you not. I've been making it since I was a kid.

I have wonderful memories of Mom calling out to us kids that it was time to make fudge. We'd run into the kitchen and just wait to do our part. It wasn't until I was older than I realize Mom did all the really hard work and we did the stuff like butter the dish, lick the beaters , scrape the left over fudge from the bottom of the pan and eat that, like good little girls and boys . . . you know, kid stuff!

Now it's not that quick and easy kind of fudge. This is real, actual, better than Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, fudge.

So print this out, get your ingredients out, measured and within reach and let's get started making Aunt Shirley's incredible fudge.

Before beginning, make sure your kitchen sink is clean, empty and prepared to fill with ice cold
water and ice. Fill the sink with cold water and place the ice within reach.

• Place electric beater within reach of the sink.

• Coat large plate with butter.

• Place a large spoon next to the plate.

In a large pan, combine the following ingredients:

6 T. Semi-sweetened Cocoa
4 C. Sugar
2 C. Canned Milk (Evaporated works best)
3 T. White Karo Syrup
¼ C. Butter
2 t. Vanilla

Heat to 230° (soft ball stage).

Stir in:

½ C. Walnuts

Place pan in sink of cold water, add ice and begin to beat immediately. Continuing beating until
the mixture becomes thick and almost unmanageable.

Immediately pour onto the plate and smooth with spoon.

Let cool and harden.

Happy Eating.

Return to the Neighborhood.

An Open Letter to Barack Obama

If the members of the electoral college in your state are ignoring the following they are breaking the law, plain and simple, and choosing to put a usurper into office. You must call them and beseech them to follow the law, not the trend.

Although this letter was issued to the Chicago Tribune I couldn't find it anywhere on their website. Color me so very surprised. Not.

So let's spread it across the world ourselves. Send the word out. The electoral college will cast their votes on December 15th, the president of the United States of America is still not official until that time. So make our electors aware they are committing treason in voting for a man who is not a natural born citizen of the United States.

I demand our law enforcement agencies enforce the law in this matter. Hold Barack Obama to the same standard you hold the rest of Americans. If he knowingly takes the Oath of Office as a foreign-born citizen of the United States I demand he be arrested on charges of treason and accordingly sentenced. For in effect, Barack Obama is attempting a take-over of the United States of America.

I also echo the demands of this letter written by Robert L. Schulz, Chairman of the We the People Foundation. Barack Obama must answer or be arrested as the traitorous usurper he is. The solution is so simple, turn your "birth certificate" over to forensic scientists and do so now.

An Open Letter to Barack Obama:

Are you a Natural Born Citizen of the U.S.?

Are you legally eligible to hold the Office of President?

We The People Foundation
For Constitutional Education, Inc.
www.WeThePeopleFoundation.org
2458 Ridge Road Queensbury, NY 12804
info@GiveMeLiberty.org
December 1, 2008

Mr. Barack Obama
Barack Obama Transition Office
Kluczynski Federal Building
230 So. Dearborn St.
Chicago, Illinois 60604

Dear Mr. Obama:

Representing thousands of responsible American citizens who have also taken an oath to defend the Constitution of the United States of America, I am duty bound to call on you to remedy an apparent violation of the Constitution.

Compelling evidence supports the claim that you are barred from holding the Office of President by the “natural born citizen” clause of the U.S. Constitution. For instance:

• You have posted on the Internet an unsigned, forged and thoroughly discredited, computer-generated birth form created in 2007, a form that lacks vital information found on any original, hand signed Certificate of Live Birth, such as hospital address, signature of attending physician and age of mother.

• Hawaii Dept of Health will not confirm your assertion that you were born in Hawaii.

• Legal affidavits state you were born in Kenya.

• Your grandmother is recorded on tape saying she attended your birth in Kenya.

• U.S. Law in effect in 1961 denied U.S. citizenship to any child born in Kenya if the father was Kenyan and the mother was not yet 19 years of age.

• In 1965, your mother legally relinquished whatever Kenyan or U.S. citizenship she and you had by marrying an Indonesian and becoming a naturalized Indonesian citizen.

You have repeatedly refused to provide evidence of your eligibility when challenged to do so in a number of recent lawsuits. Instead, you have been successful in having judges declare that they are powerless to order you to prove your eligibility to assume the Office of President.

Incredibly, the judge in Hawaii actually said it would be an invasion of your privacy for him to order access to your original birth certificate in order to prove your eligibility to hold the Office of President.

Before you can legitimately exercise any of the powers of the President you must meet all the criteria for eligibility established by the Constitution.

You are under a moral, legal, and fiduciary duty to proffer such evidence. Should you assume the office as anyone but a bona fide natural born citizen of the United States who has not relinquished that citizenship, you would be inviting a national crisis that would undermine the domestic peace and stability of the Nation. For example:

• You would always be viewed by many Americans as a poseur - a usurper .

• As a usurper , you would be unable to take the required “Oath or Affirmation” on January 20 without committing the crime of perjury or false swearing, for being ineligible you cannot faithfully execute the Office of the President of the United States.

• You would be entitled to no allegiance, obedience or support from the People.

• The Armed Forces would be under no legal obligation to remain obedient to you.

• No civilian in the Executive Branch would be required to obey any of your proclamations, Executive Orders or directives, as such orders would be legally void.

• Your appointments of Judges to the Supreme Court would be void.

• Congress would not be able to pass any needed legislation because it would not be able to acquire the signature of a bona fide President.

• Congress would be unable to remove you, a usurper , from the Office of the President on Impeachment, inviting certain political chaos including a potential for armed conflicts within the General Government or among the States and the People to effect the removal of such a usurper.

In consideration of the escalating constitutional crisis brought on by the total lack of evidence needed to conclusively establish your eligibility, I am compelled to serve you with this First Amendment Petition for a Redress of this violation of the Constitution.

With all due respect, I ask that you immediately direct the appropriate Hawaiian officials to allow access to the vault copy of your birth certificate by our forensic scientists on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, December 5, 6 and 7, 2008.

In addition, I ask that you deliver the following documentary evidence to the National Press Club in Washington DC by 10 am on December 8, 2008, marked for my attention:

• A certified copy of your original, signed “vault” birth certificate.

• Certified copies of your reissued and sealed birth certificates in the names Barack Hussein Obama, Barry Soetoro, Barry Obama, Barack Dunham and Barry Dunham.

• A certified copy of your Certification of Citizenship.

• A certified copy of your Oath of Allegiance taken upon age of maturity.

• Certified copies of your admission forms for Occidental College, Columbia University and Harvard Law School.

• Certified copies of any legal documents changing your name.

Each member of the Electoral College, who is committed to casting a vote on December 15, 2008, has a constitutional duty to make certain you are a natural-born citizen. As of today, there is no evidence in the public record (nor have you provided any) that defeats the claim that you are barred by law from assuming the Office of President because you fail the Constitution’s eligibility requirements.

All state Electors are now on Notice that unless you provide documentary evidence before December 15, that conclusively establishes your eligibility, they cannot cast a vote for you without committing treason to the Constitution.

“In a government of laws, the existence of the government will be imperiled if it fails to observe the law scrupulously. Our government is the potent, the omnipresent teacher. For good or for ill, it teaches the whole people by its example. Crime is contagious. If the government becomes a
lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for law; it invites every man to become a law unto himself; it invites anarchy .” Olmstead v. U.S., 277 U.S. 438

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
Robert L. Schulz
Chairman

We The People Foundation
For Constitutional Education, Inc.
www.WeThePeopleFoundation.org
2458 Ridge Road Queensbury, NY 12804
info@GiveMeLiberty.org

This is a dangerous time our nation is facing and it is now that the law abiding citizens of the United States of America demand satisfaction. Obama the Destroyer, although I'm becoming fond of Obama the Usurper, must prove his U.S. citizenship to the satisfaction of forensic scientists able to determine false documents or step down.