oopsie daisy...i said that?: Rugged beauty

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Rugged beauty

Got a couple more beautiful pics sent in from a Daisy.....This is some amazing landscape.....I love nature :)

397 comments:

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Shannon said...: These shots come to us from North Dakota....I was gonna find a Church video in Lisa style for our Sunday but these were so nice I think we will have services on a different day LOL; August 15, 2010 at 12:29 PM
Lisa said...: How pretty these are! Scenes like this seem pretty appropriate for a Sunday. :-); August 15, 2010 at 12:31 PM
Anonymous said...: Beautiful photos! I miss Lisa telling us to put on our half-slips on Sundays :); August 15, 2010 at 12:45 PM
twirldawg said...: Pretty; August 15, 2010 at 12:49 PM
Jeanette said...: I want to live there, so pretty!

My dad took the girls to a circus Friday. The circus was lame, they didn't even have an elephant. But, they did have horses. Ella, my baby who is usually indifferent to just about everything and only gets excited over Dora, went *completely crazy when the horses came out, and she clapped the whole time they were performing. Then during intermission, both girls got to ride a pony. Brookelyn liked it but was nervous and after a couple go-arounds she asked to get off. Ella? Laughed and giggled the whole time, then screamed, through herself on the ground and kicked my in the face when I made her get off. I had no idea my girl loved horses so much! Good thing I'm in school now, I have a feeling I'm going to have to be able to afford a horse and pasture in about 10 years.

Margaret, I can't find your email address so could you possibly email me when you have time? I wanted to ask you something about your charms.; August 15, 2010 at 1:03 PM
Jeanette said...: *threw
and
*me

I've been making typos all day.; August 15, 2010 at 1:03 PM
Jennifer-Lynn said...: Morning all:

Called my sister this a.m. about catheterizing a hermaphrodite. She said, first of all, that the patient was severely developmentally disabled and was without speech. All the patient could do (they thought that she was a genetic female when she presented, because she had breasts) was scream in pain. She was brought in by an LPN caretaker (my sister also told me that the thing that made her most angry about this whole situation is that A.) the caretaker did not disclose that this was a hermaphrodite with a difficult to locate urethra, causing additional pain and distress to the patient and B.) that the caretaker was not in the room with the patient, acting as a comforting presence for a profoundly disabled person in a strange place with strangers poking at them).

And I was wrong about the organs. The patient had NO external organs; instead, there was a hole, like a baby doll. But the urethra was not directly connected to this; it was like a “blind pouch.” My sister had to feel around with the catheter for the urethra…she compared it to “snaking a drain.” She did confirm that both organs can be without outlets, leaving the urethra opening between organs, depending on the in-utero development. She also said that this patient had internal male organs, so would genetically be considered male, but appeared female (with breasts and feminine features) from the outside. She said that this probably made it MORE difficult, as she might have hit testicular tissue in her attempts to find the urethra and bladder (she didn’t know for sure, but depending on where the testicles fell, it was possible). In fact, she said that the patient looked like a 10 year old female, with small breasts, but was actually 40 years old.

That’s all I got, except that she thanked me for reminding her of a very traumatic experience on the hottest day of the year while she’s 9 months pregnant. She said it made her day. :); August 15, 2010 at 1:25 PM
KaytieJ said...: I bet it did make her day! Very interesting, though. TY.

Ginger - I was a doof and forgot to tell you hello and good to see you again! I've missed you and was wondering how you and BIL's family were doing. The house being trashed by a storm - yikes! Take care!

Mulie - it really is fascinating. Prenatal vitamens and care are so important.; August 15, 2010 at 1:34 PM
Anonymous said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 15, 2010 at 2:40 PM
Deb said...: Those photos are amazing - I love the lines in the rock.; August 15, 2010 at 2:47 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Just got home from a family outing. Hope everyone had a nice weekend!! Catching up now :); August 15, 2010 at 4:27 PM
Trudy said...: Lisa you should be getting real mail (like from the mailman) on Mon or Tue. Hope you like it. =)
Oh and don't worry i'm still way up here in Michigan.; August 15, 2010 at 5:23 PM
Muliebrity said...: Hey, Trudy! Do you have any necklaces like one I got from you in blues and/or teals? I have been wearing a lot, a lot of blue this Summer and like the style of the orange necklace set, but think I would like a blue one too. Do you have my email? muliebritysmith@hotmail.com; August 15, 2010 at 8:36 PM
Anonymous said...: Where is everybody tonight?; August 15, 2010 at 8:53 PM
C'est La Vie said...: Just finished dinner. Italian sausage and spaghetti!; August 15, 2010 at 9:41 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Ugh! Logging in is annoying :/; August 15, 2010 at 9:41 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Anyone watching True Blood??; August 15, 2010 at 9:57 PM
Muliebrity said...: Why did I let my husband talk me into watching "The Fourth Kind"?; August 15, 2010 at 11:45 PM
Lisa said...: Trudy, I'm so excited, thank you! Lol, doesn't matter what it is, I'm thrilled and please, I have no worries. :-)

Hi, everyone...busy day here napping, then watching TV. I may go to bed early, too. Busy day tomorrow with an all new eye doctor. The fun times never end.

Peach, are you C'est La Vie?; August 16, 2010 at 12:06 AM
TxMissie said...: Waving Madly:)
I sent in a pic for you ladies and you are all welcome to come visit; August 16, 2010 at 12:23 AM
Lisa said...: Hi, Missie...goodnight, Missie. ;-)

Off to bed in a bit for me. Life is forcing me to not only be up but actually dressed by 9am.; August 16, 2010 at 12:44 AM
Muliebrity said...: Remember the article Margaret posted the other day? Well, I just read this blog post by the Man Nurse and it seems fitting.

http://mannursediaries.blogspot.com/2010/08/how-to-juggle-hospice-and-critical-care.html; August 16, 2010 at 12:52 AM
Lisa said...: I'm back and really quite aggravated. Going back to the whole Chris and Liz thing (sorry), I've been trying very hard to give Chris the benefit of the doubt here. I've laid off the accusations, assuming that he perhaps knew nothing of what Liz was doing and quite probably didn't even really know about the Daisies and the MWOPers. I've worked very hard at looking at him as a victim in this particular mess, because it made sense that he could have been. But, he knows *now. He knows because of his mom and Amy and he knows people have been hurt, disgusted, made angry. I've been a bit bothered by the fact that in no manner has an apology come through from him. Not through his mother, and not via his FB page that he has to know so many of us have now. In his place, even if I was a victim too, even if I'd not known what was going on, since it was done in my name I'd want to apologize. Wouldn't most people? So I was thinking maybe his communication skills are just *really lacking now, due to the stroke....until I looked at his FB page just now, and saw he's perfectly capable of communicating well about something as pressing and important as vaginal odor. Fuck that and fuck him. http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=641074130&v=wall; August 16, 2010 at 1:11 AM
Muliebrity said...: Uh, OK. I was thinking maybe they haven't posted anything about Liz is because they don't want people IRL knowing about her scam until something is done legally. Maybe Chris isn't saying anything because whatever he says can be used against him. And, dude, some of the crap sounds like Liz. Or vise versa. Interesting.; August 16, 2010 at 1:17 AM
Lisa said...: Mulie, that article? Makes me think of our Kaytie. It takes a special kind of person to do this job.; August 16, 2010 at 1:21 AM
Lisa said...: How hard is it for him to say, "Hey, Mom, tell them I'm sorry this all happened...I didn't know and I feel bad" when he knew she was communicating with at least one of us via email?; August 16, 2010 at 1:23 AM
Muliebrity said...: "Makes me think of our Kaytie. It takes a special kind of person to do this job."

Kaytie seems to have just the right mix of toughness and compassion. Very cool. I admire that very much.; August 16, 2010 at 1:24 AM
Muliebrity said...: Maybe he's not talking to him mom. He doesn't live in the house, right? I bet even after everything, he doesn't want to see Liz in trouble, OR he's going to be in trouble. Liz will try and lay blame to him either way. He will see. I think he said sorry to AmyB, right? I can't remember.; August 16, 2010 at 1:26 AM
Muliebrity said...: Doesn't he get that hundreds of people are view his FB status? MWOP has posted the link several times and it's not that hard to find. At least have the courtesy to keep quite or go private.; August 16, 2010 at 1:29 AM
Lisa said...: That's what I think, Mulie...go private, at least. Be decent and considerate to those who are hurt or angry. And he's around his mom enough that she can ask him things and was relaying the answers back to me.; August 16, 2010 at 1:32 AM
Muliebrity said...: I am still not convinced he was unaware of the scam. I did watch his "Thank You" youtube video for the first time today. I don't think it was so much of a thanks for the money, I think he thought it was a stroke awareness video.; August 16, 2010 at 1:51 AM
KaytieJ said...: Mulie and Lisa - I think you are both right. Chris is well enough to supposedly be the one to type responses back to people on FB. I would really like to believe it is him. However, his lack of concern, or I should say his belief in E, shows he is either not concerned or aware of misappropriation or misrepresentation of funds.

Not sure if this comment will get banned, but in this case, my heart goes out to his mom. She seems very loving, caring, concerned DESPITE what Chris has done in the past and may be involved with now.

I did not read the link posted above. Every day I work, there is a tragedy.

That is why I leave a very special FUCK YOU to Elis/zabeth and her husband Russell. You are scum.; August 16, 2010 at 2:55 AM
TxMissie said...: Just remember Ladies(said in Fried Green Tomatos voice) I have seen karma bite and bite very very hard.So just sit back and watch the mess; August 16, 2010 at 3:04 AM
Anonymous said...: Mulie - he is living inside his mother's house until his place is ready so he does know what's going on. How much he comprehends I don't know. I think we all lost a little *trust last week and felt repulsed with the revelations of sex crimes. However, we can't control what they did. I along with others contacted the appropriate people that needed to know what's been going on and that's about all we can do. People bashing each other on mwop or pointing fingers elsewhere is not helpful or healthy.

"For evil to flourish, it only requires good men to do nothing" - Simon Wiesenthal; August 16, 2010 at 8:32 AM
JustPeachy2 said...: Lisa, Yes CLV is my private blog, but I always forget to log out. lol; August 16, 2010 at 8:43 AM
Shannon said...: Morning ladies.....sorry I wasnt around yesterday....I couldnt freaking stay awake. I had a headache that apparently just wanted me to sleep all day. I think I got at least 14 hours of sleep yesterday....soooo not like me LOL

As for Chris I still dont know of his involvement or not and even with a benefit of a doubt it doesnt mean that I dont think he may have known something.; August 16, 2010 at 10:28 AM
JustPeachy2 said...: HOW is it Monday?? ugh!; August 16, 2010 at 10:29 AM
Shannon said...: I dont know peachy but seriously couldnt it have waited another day or two? LOL; August 16, 2010 at 10:31 AM
Muliebrity said...: Thanks for clarifying that he is still in his mother's house, Margaret. It's hard to keep track of the lies and "truth." I couldn't remember if he had already moved into a modular on his mom's property or not yet.

I can't believe that he isn't showing more anger toward Liz, but they have been close friends for 10 years, so maybe he's having a hard time getting to a place where a friend would screw you over that badly. Or, he was aware of what was going on.; August 16, 2010 at 10:43 AM
JustPeachy2 said...: I don't know. I don't want to accuse, but it something about his reaction seems off. :/; August 16, 2010 at 10:46 AM
Trudy said...: Hey Mulie, I have a few things blue/teal i'll put them on my blog tonight and you can take a look. =); August 16, 2010 at 12:13 PM
T@iy@ said...: Hi all! Been busy canning all weekend, again. Our cupboards are getting super full. It makes me very happy! We should definitely be set for the winter!; August 16, 2010 at 12:30 PM
Anonymous said...: Taiya - have you ever made sauerkraut? I've heard it's really easy but never tried it.; August 16, 2010 at 12:53 PM
Tammi said...: I'll say it again...Chris knew, knows, whatever...and he is laughing all the way to the bank.; August 16, 2010 at 1:18 PM
Anonymous said...: Hi Tammi - how are things on the left coast?; August 16, 2010 at 1:25 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Tammi- You're probably right, and hopefully they will both be laughing all the way to jail.; August 16, 2010 at 1:59 PM
Tammi said...: Margaret things are good! Just dropped all three off for the first day of school.

Peach...yeah, lets so hope so.; August 16, 2010 at 2:40 PM
Anonymous said...: Wow, school starts early there. My daughter doesn't go back until after Labor Day.

Where is AP today - napping at the eye doctors - lol.; August 16, 2010 at 2:55 PM
Amy B said...: Just wanted to say hey and see how everyone is doing?
My kids have been in school for over a week already.; August 16, 2010 at 5:33 PM
Lisa said...: I'm here...and yes, Margaret, pretty much. Brand new doctor, tons of info and tests on Miss Arse and in about a month she'll have a brand new (only used, since it's a cadaver donation) cornea. I, of course, am having a blast with this idea, suggesting she's going to be seeing things the past owner saw. :-D From there I took her to Aldi and let her do her version of Braille on everything. For an hour and a half. We got home and her new memory foam mattress had arrived so we set that all up and now I'm just damn tired. She, on the other hand, is mowing her backyard. *eyeroll*

How is everyone?

And did anyone get any more email from Liz? In her infamous reimbursement email, she said further emails would be sent out by the end of the weekend and that's passed.; August 16, 2010 at 6:08 PM
Muliebrity said...: I was just looking through all her tweets, and I know for sure she tweeted me while I was in labor for all those days, and there is not one tweet from May 24-28 and when they show up again, there are no tweets to me. I wonder what happened to those?; August 16, 2010 at 6:20 PM
Amy B said...: Lisa
Let me know when you get your package. I got it all put together the way you wanted it..Great choices.

So it is Monday..and the hit water heater is OUT, My daughter has to be at cheer clinic at 7 AM. And my little guy makes me swear I stand outside his school door ..just in case..

How fact can Friday get here?

Okay I am done whining for now.; August 16, 2010 at 6:21 PM
Trudy said...: We donated my Mom's corneas when she died. Didn't tell the grand kids about it. My neice 10 at the time found a thank you letter from the donation place and FREAKED out. We ended up telling her it was a mistake and had them send a letter saying that. When she was older she told us that she was worried that grandma wouldn't see grandpa in heaven.; August 16, 2010 at 6:21 PM
Muliebrity said...: "Miss Arse and in about a month she'll have a brand new (only used, since it's a cadaver donation) cornea."

Hmmmm, I seem to remember a discussion...

I hope it works for her, as I know she is desperate to read again. Glad to know Ole Girl can still rock the lawn mowing! Go, Ms Arse!; August 16, 2010 at 6:22 PM
Trudy said...: Lisa, Did you mom ever see the movie The Eye.; August 16, 2010 at 6:23 PM
Trudy said...: Maybe you could have movie night the night before she gets it. lmao; August 16, 2010 at 6:25 PM
Amy B said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 16, 2010 at 6:28 PM
Amy B said...: Mulebrity
Her tweets to me are gone also. I think when you delete a account it make the tweets go away. She tweeted me an hour before everything came out . They were gone as soon as she deleted her account.; August 16, 2010 at 6:30 PM
Muliebrity said...: I am laughing because I tweeted everything and more than JM did! I got it all: cervix ballooning, breastfeeding, milk production, jaundice, drug talk. I had a little bit of everything. I guess the difference is she has 20k followers and I have 125?; August 16, 2010 at 6:36 PM
Muliebrity said...: Amy B, Here's a copy of her tweets, but I am sure a few of her to me are missing.
http://topsy.com/twitter/care4chris; August 16, 2010 at 6:38 PM
Amy B said...: Since i am new here...I am jumping in. How old is your baby?; August 16, 2010 at 6:44 PM
Muliebrity said...: She's 2 months-ish, Amy.; August 16, 2010 at 6:46 PM
Lisa said...: Mulie, that *is weird.

I will, AmyB and I'm so excited! Poor little guy you have there...how old is he?

Trudy, I never say it and now I think I know what our next move-after-holiday-dinner will be! Just could be Jake's birthday...right before she gets it, lol.

"Hmmmm, I seem to remember a discussion..."

About what? Because I've always said that transplants that don't prolong life aren't anything that bothers me terribly. You need a new face? Go for it. Hand? Hey, hope it works for you. Heart or liver? Not so much.; August 16, 2010 at 6:47 PM
Lisa said...: Trudy, I never saw it, I mean.; August 16, 2010 at 6:48 PM
Trudy said...: it's about a lady who gets donated corneas and can see everything that the doner saw. let just say doner didn't have a good life.; August 16, 2010 at 6:52 PM
Amy B said...: Lisa
He is 5. He is the baby of the family. Since I had my surgery and started my treatments we have spent a lot of time together . So this has been hard for both of us.; August 16, 2010 at 6:52 PM
Lisa said...: Okay, I need ideas. When Miss Arse gets her cadaver eye, she has to spend a full 48 hours flat on her back, even to the point she has to recline the car seat all the way back on the ride home or lay in the backseat. She can't use pillows, can't turn her head, nothing. Flat on her back, face to the ceiling, 48 hours. She's allowed to get up only to use the backroom (and not allowed to take the time to shower or brush her teeth) and to eat, but eating even needs to be reclined back as much as possible, face to the ceiling. Basically just up enough to not choke to death. What in the world can I do to make this easier for her? Any ideas? 48 hours doesn't sound too bad until you really think about it. He warned her she will get very sore, very bored and quite possibly have some nasty heartburn. Anyone had any ideas on how to amuse her? I'm thinking we ought to just use Propofol every so often and hope she doesn't MJ on us.; August 16, 2010 at 6:57 PM
Lisa said...: Awww, AmyB, I bet that is hard on you both. :-(

"it's about a lady who gets donated corneas and can see everything that the doner saw. let just say doner didn't have a good life."

Heeee! I already told her I hoped she got one from a 28 year old man who watched a lot of porn.; August 16, 2010 at 6:59 PM
Trudy said...: you could tape playgirl pic's to the ceiling.; August 16, 2010 at 7:10 PM
Lisa said...: Trudy, or pictures of Chef Marcus Samuelsson, who (whom?) she thinks is amazingly handsome. She cracks me up.; August 16, 2010 at 7:21 PM
Anonymous said...: APlug - how about some books on tape for Arse?; August 16, 2010 at 7:32 PM
Shannon said...: You should also get some mirrors set up on weird angles so she can see things going on....If she is as stubborn as some of my family she is going to get pissy if she cant see what is going on.; August 16, 2010 at 7:41 PM
Anonymous said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 16, 2010 at 7:43 PM
Anonymous said...: Ugh - AP, you can also put pillows under her legs and change them every couple of hours when she's awake.; August 16, 2010 at 7:44 PM
Anonymous said...: And, make sure that when she lays down the sheets are drawn real tight - no ripples. Rubbing her legs and arms will make her feel better too.; August 16, 2010 at 7:46 PM
Anonymous said...: And, kidding - I'll stop now :); August 16, 2010 at 7:47 PM
KaytieJ said...: Lisa - You'll have your hands full with entertaining Ms. Arse when the time comes. Might want to ask if they can prescribe some valium - for you both (j/k). I am excited for her that she is able to have the transplant done. Hope all goes well.; August 16, 2010 at 7:59 PM
Trudy said...: Tie her down and turn the radio up. Just kidding.; August 16, 2010 at 8:10 PM
Trudy said...: Mulie i added stuff to my blog. i have more blue but it's across the state at my sisters. I'll get it in 2 weeks if you don't see anything now. sorry my pic's suck.; August 16, 2010 at 8:13 PM
Deb said...: " I'm thinking we ought to just use Propofol every so often and hope she doesn't MJ on us."

Totally laughed out loud on that one Lisa!

I'm so glad she will get the gift of sight, it's amazing to me!; August 16, 2010 at 8:19 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Ok, ladies! It's hot in Texas and the ants are invading... I had enough today, so I orthomaxed around the house and caulked some of the cracks in the kitchen. I know, I know, I'm a mass ant murderer, but I just can't take it anymore! Any ant preventing secrets??; August 16, 2010 at 8:20 PM
Shannon said...: Peachy you wanna come do mine next? I am so tired of yelling at people in this house to CLEAN THE FOOD OFF THEIR PLATES!!! I swear to jeebus that every stinking morning I get up and there is at least one plate with food on it in the kitchen COVERED in ants!!!!

I would put the plates in their bed but then the ants would discover a new room to invade.; August 16, 2010 at 8:29 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: No kiddin! It drives me crazy too!; August 16, 2010 at 8:35 PM
Lisa said...: Margaret, I thought you were serious and was thinking doing all that would be a good way to get my ass whipped.

We'll try to rig her up something with a handmirror and they know she has a script for a very mild dose of Xanax. He told her she could use those if she got too worked up over being so still. We'll make it through but man, she's going to be a bitch. The books on tape is a great idea - thanks!

Peach, the best thing I've found is Terro...the liquid in the little bottle, not the spray. But you have to be sooo careful to not put baits where kids and pets can get into them. It'll kill colonies out fast, though.; August 16, 2010 at 8:54 PM
Muliebrity said...: I have some books on tape, Lisa. Would you like Glen Beck or Hilary Clinton? I have both.; August 16, 2010 at 9:40 PM
Lisa said...: Oh, gosh, I really appreciate that, Mulie, and thank you but it'll be fine. Our library is packed full, though, and I'm just going to grab her a couple of things from there. Plus, she's got the Bible on tape. I'll make her listen to that and it might keep her from getting so ugly on that last day. Again, thanks, though!; August 16, 2010 at 9:57 PM
Lisa said...: I say "though" way too much. I need to work on that. So, because I'm like a dog with a damn bone, I emailed Liz to ask why she didn't send out her emails by weekend's end. No reply yet. Color me shocked.; August 16, 2010 at 9:58 PM
Jeanette said...: Re: the ants. I have not tested this myself, but a friend of mine puts cinnamon in the windows under the seal, and she swears it keeps the ants from coming in. I've also heard that ants will not cross salt. Not that you can salt your whole perimeter, but that might be helpful if you know the exact spot they are coming in. Sorry I can't be more helpful.; August 16, 2010 at 10:19 PM
JustPeachy2 said...: Thanks, everyone. I'm willing to try anything at this point!; August 16, 2010 at 10:44 PM
Jeanette said...: Lisa I've been thinking about what you could do to help Miss Arse pass the time and I'm just not coming up with anything. It would really suck to have to lay flat for that long... just try to keep reminding her throughout the 48 hours that once it's over she will be able to see again!! Hopefully you'll think of something to do to keep her occupied.

When does she get the cadaver eye?; August 16, 2010 at 11:05 PM
Trudy said...: Good Mornin all. have a great day.; August 17, 2010 at 6:04 AM
Tammi said...: On the ants...yeah, I have done the cinnamon and it works! In our old house they would try and get in for the cat food of all thngs! I did the cinnamon trick..gone. I will say there wasn't gazillions of them or anything, more like a few scouts, checking it out.

Even our pest guy said the only true way to get rid of them, is to just get rid of what they want. Spraying is temporary.; August 17, 2010 at 10:03 AM
Tammi said...: And with that...how is everyone? Back to the grind of school. I am excited for Zach though. Sr year, lots of fun stuff ahead.

Lisa...I hope miss A doesn't drive you crazy!

Anyone doing anything exciting?; August 17, 2010 at 10:16 AM
Jeanette said...: Hi Tammi! I don't think we've officially "met" since you've started posting but I've cracked up at a couple of your posts while catching up. So... nice to meet you!

Nothing exciting here, but I'm on my way out to help my dad's ex-wife celebrate her birthday by laying around the pool all day.

Hope everyone has a great day!; August 17, 2010 at 10:54 AM
Tammi said...: Jeanette! Nice to meet you too! :)

I might just do the pool thing as well. Supposed to be 95 or something.; August 17, 2010 at 11:05 AM
Lisa said...: Hi, all. Jeanette, she gets the cadaver eye in 3-4 weeks, but no definite date yet. I think I'm far more nervous about those 2 days on her back than she is, actually.

I just cleaned out containers in the fridge and came up with lunch - chicken, peas and gnocci mixed in alfredo sauce. It's actually pretty darn good.

Anything exciting happening in the blog world today?; August 17, 2010 at 2:04 PM
EandK said...: Dr. Phil is about sex offenders today. Oh my. I am thinking about scammers and s.o. So interesting to see how some justify their behavior. More interesting to see the people who care about them justify their behavior.

Hi all! Been sick since the weekend. Wish I could pour a drink but the thought is just unappealing.; August 17, 2010 at 3:28 PM
Tara said...: Since it is kind of slow around here, could I show you guys a new blog I recently found and just love going there almost every day. This little girl just makes me smile everytime I see a pic of her. And her situation should make you cry, but instead (because of the way her mom has set up the blog ie: NEVER complaining /not asking for money/)it just makes you smile. This little girl lives permanately in a children's hospital because of a rare disease, lives on a ventilator and is just adorable.
Here is one of her recent posts:

http://www.reagansblob.com/2010/08/pips-new-hat-going-outside/; August 17, 2010 at 4:15 PM
Lisa said...: Tara, she's a bit startling to see at first but then you realize what a cute little girl she is, don't you? She looks so much like her dad, I think. It is nice how upbeat they are, I agree. And her mom looks like our Tammi here, enough to be sisters. That, or all blondes just look alike to me.; August 17, 2010 at 4:52 PM
Tara said...: I thought the same thing about Tammi. Of course with that itty bitty pic she has for an avatar, I can't tell much. Not long mine, you know - I really do resemble that little orange "B" on mine!; August 17, 2010 at 5:15 PM
Muliebrity said...: I have seen this blog before or an article on her or something. I can't put my finger on it.; August 17, 2010 at 5:29 PM
Dawn said...: Wow ladies. I'm gone for a few months and it gets wild around here.

How is everyone doing?; August 17, 2010 at 8:19 PM
kristin said...: Dawn! how the heck are you?

Good to see Trudy too!

Tammi, Peachy, AmyB...et al - nice to meet you!

Hello ladies.

Just stopped in to say hi!; August 17, 2010 at 8:27 PM
Dawn said...: Hey Kristin. I'm good just insanely busy lately. I've spent the past 2 months with my head in other people's computers "de-virusing" them. Great for business but then makes me want to avoid my own computer like the plague.; August 17, 2010 at 8:41 PM
Shannon said...: OMG HELLO LADY!!!!

I have been reading about Taylor's upcoming birthday.....she is so amazing to me and so are you!!

I dont blame you for avoiding your comp like the plague LOL; August 17, 2010 at 8:46 PM
Dawn said...: Thanks Shannon. Taylor turns 21 tomorrow. The Bossman and I were thinking about taking Taylor to the local bar, order her a Jack Daniels & Coke, just so she can pull her money out of her Blue's Clues purse. ;) Yes we are evil that way.; August 17, 2010 at 8:49 PM
kristin said...: LMAO Dawn! Wouldn't that be awesome? If you do - take a pic!

Happy 21st Birthday to Taylor! What a milestone!

You have done an awesome job Dawn, I know it has been a journey but you can see in Dawn what awesome people she has in her life and you are the ring leader. Kudos to you.; August 17, 2010 at 8:53 PM
Dawn said...: Awww..thanks Kristin.

I just think it would be funny to see the looks on the faces of people in the bar. *insert evil laugh*

We are seriously thinking of taking her to the casino just because we know she would absolutely love putting quarters in the slot maching and pushing the buttons to watch all the pretty lights.

Who knows, she might win us some big bucks. :); August 17, 2010 at 9:01 PM
Dawn said...: *machine*; August 17, 2010 at 9:02 PM
Shannon said...: Oh that is so cool....I can just see her now :); August 17, 2010 at 9:51 PM
Jeanette said...: Dawn! I have wondered where you were these days, it's so good to "see" you! Please wish Taylor a Happy Birthday from her online fan club!; August 17, 2010 at 9:58 PM
Dawn said...: *waves to everyone*

I've popped in to read and I've tried to keep up with the blogs. But when you spend from 9am to 5:30pm, M-F on other people's computers, the last thing I wanted to do was sit at my computer in the evening. I tended to veg on the couch & watch TV after Taylor was in bed.

Thanks for the birthday wishes for Taylor! I can't believe my baby turns 21 tomorrow. I wonder if she realizes it's time to move out. ;); August 17, 2010 at 10:24 PM
Tammi said...: Wow...I think I might be offended....roots for days, straggly hair, big ass teeth....LOL! Uh, thanks! hahahaha; August 17, 2010 at 10:49 PM
Tammi said...: Getting back to that little girl...I know I have either read or saw her on TV. Maybe the Today show or something. She is just precious.; August 17, 2010 at 10:53 PM
Lisa said...: DAWN!! Awww, it's so good to see you again. I love peeping in on Taylor from time to time and always love reading about her. Happy early birthday to her and I hope she has the best one ever. I also think slot machines would make it the best one ever for her. :-)

Tammi, I thought she was fairly attractive...sheeesh, don't be offended.

EandK, I hope you're on the mend!; August 17, 2010 at 11:15 PM
Tammi said...: Lisa..you know I was teasing you! But come on now...she is wearing mom shorts! LOL!; August 17, 2010 at 11:23 PM
Dawn said...: Hey Lisa!!!!

I'm with you too. I've always thought Reagan was pretty. I've been reading her "blob" for awhile. I love the way she writes about Piper and all her made up words.; August 17, 2010 at 11:34 PM
Shannon said...: I have to say that Mikala and I were looking at her 'blob' earlier and we are both pretty smitten. That little girl is so darn precious and has some of the most beautiful and BIG eyes. I didnt find it on her blob but does anyone know how old she is? Mikala was curious because she is so tiny, I did explain the nature of her health issues.; August 18, 2010 at 12:04 AM
Dawn said...: She is 3 years old Shannon. There is just something so captivating about her.; August 18, 2010 at 1:07 AM
Shannon said...: I was thinking that she must have been 3 or 4. She is just angelic.

Oh and I wanted to share a funny with you taking Taylor for a Jack and Coke. My friend Daniel has a great aunt who has retardation, she is 72 years old and lives with his grandmother and always has. Well she gets to go out with the girls that she works with and friends that she has, that are 'normal'. They will go out to the bars and such and she is always allowed to get 4 vodka crans. I just thought that was so awesome because from the sound of things she is a pretty spunky lady and just loves life like nobody's business.; August 18, 2010 at 1:59 AM
Dawn said...: Shannon, that is a cool story. That lady sounds like she is living life to it's fullest and enjoying herself. In the end, that's all I want for Taylor.

If we actually did take Taylor to a bar and ordered her a drink she would get to use 2 of the 5 words she actually can say clearly...NO & EWWWWW. *laughs*; August 18, 2010 at 4:39 AM
Tammi said...: Shannon...that is a great story! And 4 vodka/crans? I would be on the floor! LOL!!

I can't wait til my oldest turns 21...Vegas baby! We have 4 yrs but I know it will be here before you know it.; August 18, 2010 at 9:37 AM
Deb said...: Good morning ladies! Sorry haven't been around too much, busy busy.

It is raining cats and dogs here right now, and a cool day, in the 70's!; August 18, 2010 at 9:40 AM
Shannon said...: Tammi I totally agree....put 4 of those in me and there is a picture of what happens to me on here LOL....yes I was on the floor :)

Morning Deb. Yesterday we got thunder and lightning and it rained....first time in almost 2 months. And while it was 95 on Sunday it is supposed to barely get over 80 today.; August 18, 2010 at 10:20 AM
Deb said...: Glad your heat wave is over shannon! It is cool and 70's today, but back up to 86 tomorrow!; August 18, 2010 at 10:27 AM
Shannon said...: I am glad it is gone.....there is just something about 70's and 80' that is just perfect :); August 18, 2010 at 10:33 AM
Shannon said...: Is your rain supposed to go away soon?; August 18, 2010 at 10:33 AM
Deb said...: It's supposed to rain all day/night. But, the sun be back tomorrow!

How is Mikala doing?; August 18, 2010 at 10:36 AM
Shannon said...: YAY for sun coming back.

Mikala is doing AWESOME!!!! She is healing up so nicely and her t-junction breakdown is almost all gone and looking like normal. There is some scar area already that can barely be seen and she is so excited because she can finally go bra shopping.; August 18, 2010 at 10:45 AM
Lisa said...: Morning, everyone!

And can I just say how tired I am of this whole "Ground Zero mosque" story? It's 2 freaking blocks away from "Ground Zero" and in NYC, blocks are big. You can't see one site from the other, either. Jeeez, Louise.; August 18, 2010 at 10:52 AM
Deb said...: It's just a good story to pimp out, Lisa. Media loves controversy!

And good morning!; August 18, 2010 at 10:54 AM
Shannon said...: I agree Lisa....I saw a headline about it yesterday that read "GOP accuses Obama of being insensitive over Mosque location" I am so sick and tired of media and propaganda that has no purpose other then keeping lines of hatred and distrust firmly written in the stone.; August 18, 2010 at 11:18 AM
Tammi said...: I don't know, I think it is very tacky. I know the blocks are big...but why not put it up on the other side of the city? It seems pretty deliberate and a sort of "fuck you" we don't care about what you think sort of thing.; August 18, 2010 at 11:38 AM
Robin in Montana said...: Well, here's a shock, I'm with Tammi. They are saying it's to "heal wounds." Well, obviously it's *not. There are other mosques nearby, there are other sites nearby, but not so close to Ground Zero where they could build. It's not "healing wounds" if it's re-opening them, nor is it doing anything to unify different races/religions/whatever. I do agree that the media is, no matter what, using to continue to keep lines of hatred and distrust open and raw. If the mosque is allowed, then what? You think it's going to just die down and everyone will go on back to wondering what is on sale at Target this week? Hell, no. That building will be demolished and the center of attacks for the foresesable future, creating yet *more hatred/distrust/unrest. It serves no purpose, and the banter about "healing wounds" is, IMHO, bullshit.; August 18, 2010 at 11:43 AM
Robin in Montana said...: Not demolished. Vandalized is what I meant to say. The building will be a target for vandals and attacks and rallies and any other kind of uproar you can imagine.; August 18, 2010 at 11:44 AM
Shannon said...: I see it that many muslims lost their lives on that day as well yet because the alleged hijackers were muslim those who lost loved ones are supposed to piss off. The fact that the only thing people see when they see anything to do with the muslim religion or middle eastern people is murderers pisses me off. They live here they worked there they lost friends and family why cant they have a mosque as a memorial, or is it only for people of proper religion and skin color to be able to have such a thing?; August 18, 2010 at 11:45 AM
Deb said...: It definitely will not unite people. There is too much bitterness, whether muslims died in the attacks or not, it's the perception.; August 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Robin in Montana said...: The "alleged hijackers"? I think I might misunderstand.

Yes, many Muslims lives were lost that day. As were many Catholics, Baptists, Wiccans, who knows. All of those people who were senselessly killed *do deserve to be honored and remembered. The fact remains that the "alleged hijackers" *were Muslim, and there *is a gaping wound and a distrust and a hatred. Is that fair to the Muslims who lived here and worked here and were killed here who were not party to any terrorism shenanigans? Hell no, it's not fair to them. But forcing the issue when it is obviously so very, very raw and so very, very ugly, and a president who is already on shaky ground, refusing to acknowledge days of prayer, but rambling on and on about Ramadan? Probably not good for unification of the people in this country. For anyone.

And where do you draw the line? Eveyrone who lost their lives on that day should be remembered, yet you don't see, again, let's say Wiccaans trying to build a temple for sacrificing goats (and I know I'm being dramatic, just saying) two blocks away in memory of their people lost. No one would want that *either, but this is even more different. Fair or not, there is a direct connection to who *was responsible for those attacks, and it's hard for everyone else to let that go, and forcing them to let it go is obivously not a great plan.; August 18, 2010 at 11:51 AM
Shannon said...: I will say that my views on the whole thing are not very popular and I am ok with that I really am. But seriously who is the one making the problem if it is what others who cant 'let it go' that are going to be the ones that will cause problems?; August 18, 2010 at 12:01 PM
Anonymous said...: Here's a you tube video that explains why some people have problems with this. It's their practice to conquer and rebuild on top of former sacred ground. What do you think?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zIeI7Due2qc

And another from a British perspective:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjS0Novt3X4&feature=related; August 18, 2010 at 12:06 PM
Dawn said...: Morning ladies!

I have to agree with RiM. She said it way better than I could, so I'm just going to say ditto.

I would like to bring up a point that the only church actually destroyed on 9/11 is still mired in red tape by the city & the Port Authority as they are trying to rebuild. Yet the mosque is just flying through the same red tape.

I say that not to start any controversy...just an FYI.; August 18, 2010 at 12:11 PM
Melissa said...: I'm going to agree with Robin and Tammi on this one too. (sorry, Shannon) I can see both sides of the coin and I just think that it's distasteful.; August 18, 2010 at 12:14 PM
Anonymous said...: I'm sick of the story too - it's just another way for the right to point fingers at the left. Keeping the story going dishonors what happened on that horrible day.; August 18, 2010 at 12:15 PM
Dawn said...: While I think it's distasteful to make this issue political, I don't really think this a Right or Left issue.

In my opinion it's about commonsense. Let's face it...historically, whenever an Islamic people defeated another group, the first thing they did was to build a mosque on the other country's most sacred ground. (I.E. the mosque built over the ruins of the temple in Jerusalem.)

While the builders of the mosque in NY may or may not subscribe to that, don't you think that such a mosque will attract the most militant of of Islam?

Just sharing my thoughts, not trying to stir up trouble. However, I do think that we can discuss this as the intelligent ladies we are without resorting to the ways of the fringe elements...on either side.; August 18, 2010 at 12:23 PM
Lisa said...: First off, I'm with Robin, Shannon. They aren't "alleged hijackers"...they did it. But there I'm going to part ways with Robin and Tammi. I'm not sure if y'all have really read up on what this so-called mosque really is, but if you haven't, it's more than a mosque (although it will include a mosque). Sadly, too few people are really investigating what is really going to be happening here. The residents of lower (or is it upper? I can't recall) Manhattan have been wanting a community center for a long time but apparently funds were never available to build it. And organization called the Corboda Initiative which is a fairly liberal Islamic-based organization and which has as its primary goal strengthening multi-faith relationships around the world and rebuilding the image Westerners now have of Muslims. They decided that in order to try to improve feelings in that area, they would build Cordoba Place, also known as Park 51. This is going to be a 13 or 15 story building, complete with pools, basketball courts, conference halls, banquet halls, etc. Anyone of any faith, or of no faith, can use the facilities or rent space for events. It is a contribution to the community to answer a need, an effort to mend fences, so to speak. And sometimes, you do have to force that issue a bit when people have built up irrational fears and prejudices. Yes, there's going to be a mosque in this building, in a wing entirely separate from the community center part. Big deal. Frankly, for people to be protesting this, especially if they know what it's *really all about, is difficult for me to wrap my mind around. And really, the example of no one wanting Wiccans to set up shop sacrificing goats is a pretty offensive example. No one would give a rat's ass if Wiccans set up shop - it's the goat sacrificing goats part people would object to and there's not going to be any animal sacrificing at Park51.

The only "direct connection" is that of a common religion. It's like holding the Amish responsible for the actions of the Hutaree. It makes no sense, at least in my mind. :-/; August 18, 2010 at 12:26 PM
Lisa said...: And for the record, I know goats don't sacrifice other goats...ignore that.; August 18, 2010 at 12:27 PM
Lisa said...: "It's their practice to conquer and rebuild on top of former sacred ground. What do you think?"

I think the World Trade Center is not sacred ground, as much as people like to call it that, for one. It's the scene of a very ugly act and many, many deaths but that alone doesn't make it sacred ground. For it to be considered so rightfully, it has to have historical religious significance. In addition, this conquering and rebuilding on top of sacred ground is something *all religions do. Not only Muslims. And lastly, even if anyone wanted to call the WTC site (incorrectly) "sacred ground", Park51 is going to be built 2 blocks and around the corner away, not even in view of the WTC site.; August 18, 2010 at 12:33 PM
Anonymous said...: Well said, Lisa.; August 18, 2010 at 12:34 PM
Dawn said...: You know I love you Lisa. But in this I disagree. While it's not "sacred" ground in the traditional sense, it is still where thousands died and their bodies are part of the ground.

When you think of the Civil War battles of Manassas or Gettysburg, you don't think of sacred ground in a traditional sense either, yet that's the way it's treated. Thousands of Americans lost their lives there and the authorities that oversee those grounds strictly control the way the land around them are used.

They don't even let museums open around the battlefields that don't strictly adhere to the provisions of keeping it a "sacred ground". In my opinion, the same applies to ground zero.

Again...just my humble opinion.; August 18, 2010 at 12:41 PM
Lisa said...: "In my opinion it's about commonsense. Let's face it...historically, whenever an Islamic people defeated another group, the first thing they did was to build a mosque on the other country's most sacred ground. (I.E. the mosque built over the ruins of the temple in Jerusalem.)"

Actually, that particular temple was in ruins because the Christians got ahold of it and tore it down and turned it into the town dump. Christians don't like to talk about that very much, though. :-/ When the Muslims got it, it had already been venerated in their history as one of their main religious sites as well, even back before the Jews had it. So, they went in, cleaned up the sacrilegious mess Christians had made of a ground sacred to both Jews and Muslims and rebuilt a mosque there. Now, of course they built a mosque...they're Muslims and it would be silly for them to rebuild a Jewish temple, but that's the actual history of Mount Moriah.; August 18, 2010 at 12:43 PM
Dawn said...: You know...it's too bad politicians can't sit and discuss this stuff like we are doing.

Of course, you may be cursing me from your computer chair, but at least everyone is typing in a respectful manner. ;)

Maybe we should require all politicians to debate via the comments section of a blog?; August 18, 2010 at 12:44 PM
Lisa said...: But Dawn, this is not going to be opened on the WTC site. There are numerous other buildings and businesses between those two locations, in fact. Because of that, I don't understand how you can compare it to sites of the Civil War battles. Now, if it was to be build on the same property or even across the street? I'd have trouble with that, as well.

"don't you think that such a mosque will attract the most militant of of Islam? "

No, that would be incredibly stupid of them. You want to go find the militant Muslims? Look in the small strip-mall mosques in the outskirts/suburbs of places like St. Louis, Orlando, Seattle, etc.

And thanks, Margaret. I admit, it's a subject that gets me all riled up.; August 18, 2010 at 12:51 PM
Lisa said...: "You know...it's too bad politicians can't sit and discuss this stuff like we are doing."

No kidding, wouldn't it be nice and wouldn't a lot more get accomplished?

"Of course, you may be cursing me from your computer chair, but at least everyone is typing in a respectful manner. ;)"

Lol, you cause me you damn bitch. Okay, not really and I feel guilty for even typing that.; August 18, 2010 at 12:53 PM
Dawn said...: Lisa, are you riled up? I couldn't tell. :)

I appreciate you sharing your views with me respectfully. I know we will never agree on this issue but I also don't think that means we shouldn't share the views were are passionate about.; August 18, 2010 at 12:55 PM
Lisa said...: Honest to God, I can spell; I am literate. I just get excited and forget to proofread. *sighs*; August 18, 2010 at 12:55 PM
Lisa said...: Agree completely, Dawn. I love a good debate that gets me all excited and it's always good to hear other views and talk, even argue gently about them, even if I don't agree.; August 18, 2010 at 12:58 PM
Dawn said...: I don't think anyone would accuse you of being illiterate Lisa.

Though I prefer to be cursed in a non-typo manner, the effect is still the same. :p; August 18, 2010 at 12:59 PM
Shannon said...: You know I am happy that we can discuss things and still be respectful. I dont expect anyone else to share my views on things in this world and I would hope that others can respect that I dont see the things the same way as others do. It is all good and it would be nice if fingers could get put down sometimes (with politicians and those who are all politically influential) and see some serious shit get sorted out.; August 18, 2010 at 1:00 PM
Robin in Montana said...: No intent to offend with the Wiccaan example, definitely. And not really a good portrayal of what I was tyring to say, anyway, since as you point out, it is a different deal altogether.

Hmmm, trying to think of some other way. And yes, you make good points about what the intent of the building is, that at least the talk they're putting out there is that it's supposed to be a donation to the community. But a contribution, a donation, whatever, to the community, if it's *unwanted because of the underlying reasons, which you can't deny are there, then how is that serving good? To force it? It doesn't matter if people are or aren't being reasonable, if fundamentally they don't *want it, then they don't want it, and no amount of feel good warm fuzzies are going to change that.

Like let's say my kid gets smashed drunk, gets in a fight with your kid, and intentinoally runs over and kills your kid with her car. My kid also dies, so I suffer an equal loss. My kid and some members, but not all, of our family have had a history of being totall assholes to you and yours, there's been some spatting back and forth between families, but my family has on more than one occasion done harm to yours. This is a big, big deal, though, and you are personally feeling the effects in the way of the loss of your child.

You are, understandably angry at my kid, and filled with emotion, and while my entire *family did not kill your kid, the fact remains that we are the family of the person who killed your kid, and our history of some family members fighting with your family remains. We tell you that hey, gosh, we're sorry you lost your kid, but remember we lost ours, too, and we want to all just "get along". And to prove that, we are going to set up a big park and building and memorial next door to your house as a tribute to *our family and all we have been through. We don't care if you don't want it, because we are doing this in the spirit of unification, dammit. Now, there'll be a pool there that y'all can come use, and we're going to have a Wii and a library and your other kids can come hang out here after school, and we're going to do some community charity work for all involved, in the name of our family. And we want you to just look at our big family promotional site every day and remember the good we are doing for the community and that you are welcome to take advantage of the amenities we are providing, and just *get over already the fact that a member of our family killed someone in your family, even though we did not personally do it. We want you to look at that daily and pass by it and not remember the pain one of ours caused you.

That's how I see it. I do see the other side of the coin as well, that it isn't on Ground Zero, etc.

And from what I have read and watched (and sure, it may be slanted, as are all opinions out there -- none are strictly neutral, if they're trying to convince anyone that their side is "right") there other places nearby, but not in such close proximity that the same could be done without causing such emotional reaction.; August 18, 2010 at 1:00 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Lisa and I have been known to get into it to the point that one or the other of us ends up crying, but we always sail through as friends. :-D I get increasingly illiterate the more worked up I get, too.

I don't feel strongly at all about this situation, but that's my opinion and all.

Also, totally aside, Lisa, didn't you say one time that Florida has the most lightning strikes in the United States? There was a trivia question on the news about that this morning and it was between Florida and Kansas and they said Kansas, and I got all bent, but I haven't had time to go look it up.; August 18, 2010 at 1:05 PM
Trudy said...: Let's all sit back and have a drink in honor of Tay turning 21. Happy Birthdat Tay.; August 18, 2010 at 1:08 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I'm always willing to abandon a debate in favor of a drink!

Happy birthday, Tay!; August 18, 2010 at 1:09 PM
Lisa said...: I found a nice article here, written by a Christian lady, if anyone is interested. http://blog.sojo.net/2010/06/08/forgiveness-fear-and-the-mosque-at-ground-zero/

Dawn, I will curse you out loud if you like. It wouldn't be the first time I cursed someone while alone in an empty house. ;-D; August 18, 2010 at 1:09 PM
Tammi said...: http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/chocolate-stuffed-peanut-butter-brownies/8c8829e5-e957-4a79-97ae-6788d7c4a21c

Just made these....they look heavenly....; August 18, 2010 at 1:11 PM
Dawn said...: Awww thanks Trudy, that's sweet. You know, I may be biased, but I think if everyone saw the world through the eyes of Taylor & others like her, this world would be a much happier place.

I thank God and all the powers that be for everyday I have her with me.

She loves to bowl so we are thinking of taking her bowling tonight.; August 18, 2010 at 1:12 PM
Robin in Montana said...: She says at the bottom of that article that she is Muslim.; August 18, 2010 at 1:15 PM
Tammi said...: Well hell, lets just have the Japanese build a temple next to Pearl Harbor as well...

Love your example Robin.; August 18, 2010 at 1:17 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Oh never mind -my reading comprehension is off. She says, "I, like many of the Muslims involved" ... etc. Mis-read on my part.; August 18, 2010 at 1:19 PM
Lisa said...: I'm all for drinking, too! Happy birthday, Taylor! And here's a secret that might get my ass whipped but I'm going to tell it anyway...it's also Kristin's LM's 4th birthday today, too. :-)

And yes to the lightning strikes. They're wrong about Kansas.; August 18, 2010 at 1:20 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I am thinking I will email that telvision station. I can't right all the wrongs in this country, but I can do what I can ... lol.; August 18, 2010 at 1:21 PM
Lisa said...: Tammi, just so you know and all, there are both Buddhist and Shinto temples very near Pearl Harbor.; August 18, 2010 at 1:23 PM
Tammi said...: I am all for forgiveness like the article says, but I still think that building is a slap in the face to the 3,000 that lost their lives. I am surprised the Muslim community doesn't feel the same. They want us to "all get along" but doing that is just going to pull us further apart.; August 18, 2010 at 1:23 PM
Shannon said...: Dawn my friend Daniel told us about the story of his great aunt because we were somehow on the conversation of people who are deemed retarded by people. He got suspended in HS because he jumped to the defense of a girl who was his friend because someone called her a stupid retard. One of my favorite people in the entire world has physical and mental problems and seriously I love him to death.

I know some people see people like Taylor as being lesser people....personally I see them as what more people should be like. There is just something about people who have mental disabilities that just make the world around them a wondrous and beautiful place.

And can I just say congrats on your 21 year old who was never supposed to live to see her first year.....she is a blessing to this world :); August 18, 2010 at 1:27 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I think forgiveness and forgetting are getting mixed up, too. You can forgive, but you may never forget. I can forgive in the sense I do not want to retaliate, but I do not forget in the sense of not wanting to be reminded of something daily, nor does forgiveness mean I have to embrace the person/thing that has hurt me.; August 18, 2010 at 1:27 PM
Robin in Montana said...: For anyone who doesn't already read Dawn's blog, the video of Taylor's graduation is well worth a watch. :*) (Because Dawn's so cute and bawlified, if nothing else! :-)); August 18, 2010 at 1:28 PM
Shannon said...: Oh yes that video is so much fun...I cried too :); August 18, 2010 at 1:32 PM
Tammi said...: Lisa...I do know that, I have been to Pearl Harbor many times. But, they aren't right there staring at you, the closest one is 7 miles away...not two blocks.
They are other mosques nearby they can use, this is just a blatant slap in the face.; August 18, 2010 at 1:33 PM
Tammi said...: I want to see Dawn's blog....; August 18, 2010 at 1:35 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Just click on Dawn's name on her posts. I don't think it's an invitation only blog?; August 18, 2010 at 1:36 PM
Lisa said...: "To force it? It doesn't matter if people are or aren't being reasonable, if fundamentally they don't *want it, then they don't want it, and no amount of feel good warm fuzzies are going to change that."

But as time passes, as people slowly begin to use the facilities there, and make no mistake no they will, the misplaced outrage over this building is going to lessen and finally become non-existent. And with that non-existence comes more understanding and acceptance. However, to get there, the issue is going to have to be "forced" some with this building happening, imo.

"of our family have had a history of being totall assholes to you and yours, there's been some spatting back and forth between families, but my family has on more than one occasion done harm to yours. This is a big, big deal, though, and you are personally feeling the effects in the way of the loss of your child."

Okay, you're not going to like this but I've got to make it more accurate, sorry. I'm with you on some of this but factually? As much as many Americans don't like hearing this, we've been the assholes here to them before they were to us. We've been the aggressors and instigators in the Muslim world time and time again and we've killed more innocent Muslims, civilians, in countries that never attacked us first, than they did here. I really need that clarified because it's the absolute truth and it matters in whether I agree with your comparison or not.

"That's how I see it. I do see the other side of the coin as well, that it isn't on Ground Zero, etc."

Okay, I can't agree with all of this. While what happened on 9/11 was horrific and inexcusable, it was *not* an act of aggression or terrorism anymoreso than what we've done in their countries for decades. 9/11 was an act of retaliation. It makes it no better in my eyes, frankly, since they aimed for innocent people, but they did so since we've killed innocent Muslims in Muslim countries for years. When we do it, it's to make their country "better", more like ours so we can feel less icky about it...when they do it back to us, it's "terrorism".

"but not in such close proximity that the same could be done without causing such emotional reaction."

What's the cut-off though, in distance? Isn't out-of-sight enough? Where's that line that makes it acceptable?; August 18, 2010 at 1:42 PM
Dawn said...: Omg Robin, that made me snort my Sobe out my nose. (Bawlified)

Thanks so much for all the kind words Shannon. You ladies are going to make me cry with the love you share for my girl.

No, my blog is open to anyone who wants to read. I've been living the life of a mother with a special needs child for 21 years now and I'd like to think I gained some wisdom through lots of trial & error experiences so I want to help other parents who may be just starting the journey.

You ladies rock!!!; August 18, 2010 at 1:44 PM
Tammi said...: Dawn...read some of your blog...what an amazing story! I am in awe. :); August 18, 2010 at 1:44 PM
Dawn said...: Thanks Tammi. Taylor is the hero of my story. I'm a mere mortal in her world (though I love pointing out that "mommy" & "no" are her 2 clearest spoken words). *laughs*; August 18, 2010 at 1:48 PM
Shannon said...: Lisa I really liked how you put that whole thing....Very well worded.

I was looking at a site http://www.hot-bytes.info/30716/just-how-far-is-the-ground-zero-mosque-from-ground-zero/ From what they are saying it is in fact 2 blocks away....around the corner and you cant even see one site from the other. As they emphasized it is the word "at" that is causing more misconception then anything else....when you see "at" you envision that it is being built on the remains of the WTC.; August 18, 2010 at 1:48 PM
Lisa said...: Tammi, your mind is obviously made up and that's fine. I am curious about something, though, and I know this is going to sound snarky and I swear right now on my kid's life I do not mean it to be so at *all...but, what do you think Jesus would say about all this? Because I think He'd say something like "Build it, then use it to forge bridges; learn to love one another despite the differences and let some good try come out of the ashes". Now, I'm only guessing based on my own knowledge of the Bible and Jesus' teachings, but I'm curious what you (or anyone here, not just Tammi) think He'd say.; August 18, 2010 at 1:49 PM
Shannon said...: Oh my goodness Dawn, Taylor hasnt change in looks a bit since she was a little girl :); August 18, 2010 at 1:50 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Oh, you definitely get NO argument from me that we have been horribly, horribly hurtful, done horrible things in the name of patriotism, to them, to other countries, hell, to people within our *own country. No argument there. I do not think for *one second, though, that allowing this mosque in the nature of feel-good camraderie, is going to be a real, true, and genuine step towards unification, on either side. If you, on one side are *truly interested in forging some unification, you truly want to make amends for *your actions, as a group, never mind whether you personally were a part, you don't *start by forcing something that is unwelcome. Just to use your words above, what they are doing is to help themselves feel less "icky" about it.

And facts of who killed how many people, and how innocently or not, the fact does still remain that on a very base, very personal level, it *does matter to people who are near that site. It *does matter. They were there, they lived it. It doesn't negate or minimize what the United States has done to those people. Not at all. But when you as a person are living what happened there, that is what matters to you, right there, right now, and you don't want to see it as a memory.

In terms of yoru question of how far is acceptable, I don't know. That was raised on a program I watched. In terms of strictly *needing a place to worship or whatever right there, they don't. There are several mosques in the area. If they want to just help the community, leave the worship aspect out of it - build a community center, and keep your worship at your mosque 6 blocks down the road. I don't know. I do see it as them forcing people who do not want it, rational, fair, logical, or otherwise. My only reasoning is that if they want to insist that this is done in the spirit of unification, in the spirit of healing and mending, then forcing it when it is so very, very, *very clearly unwanted, through legal action, belies that claim.; August 18, 2010 at 1:51 PM
Robin in Montana said...: This comment has been removed by the author.; August 18, 2010 at 1:52 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I double posted, that's the reason for the deletion.; August 18, 2010 at 1:53 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I think the WWJD is a thing people like to toss out whenever an argument with a Christian comes up, although it doesn't always have a nickel to do with it. Why couldn't someone be against the mosque purely from a personal or patriotic standpoint, nothing to do with religion?; August 18, 2010 at 1:55 PM
Robin in Montana said...: one more thing, because I'm just thinking about all this, and I am trying to see your point, Lisa. I do see much of what you say, just thinking along.

How well received do you think a Christian church, any denomination, but just something Christian, would be at a site where Americans have slaughtered Muslims in a Muslim country?; August 18, 2010 at 1:59 PM
Dawn said...: Yep Shannon, Taylor's face is always the same. She just got taller. It's hard to believe she was tiny then and now she's 6ft tall.; August 18, 2010 at 2:00 PM
Dawn said...: RiM - the thing is, that would never happen. A Christian is not allowed to even set foot in Mecca or Madinah in Saudi Arabia.; August 18, 2010 at 2:02 PM
Tammi said...: Lisa...oh of course he would want us to get along. That is why building the mosque farther away would be better! LOL!

I get what you are saying...and as much as we wnat to be like Him, our human emotions take over. We can't forgive and forget so quickly.; August 18, 2010 at 2:05 PM
Tammi said...: Robin...they wouldn't allow it...at all.; August 18, 2010 at 2:06 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Dawn - I know. That's why I say this whole "we just want to unify" front is bullshit. "We want to infiltrate" or "We want to unify, but only on your ground" might be better from their marketing standpoint. At least it'd be more honest.

IMO, again.; August 18, 2010 at 2:06 PM
Lisa said...: Sure, sure...you called me names and then cried, I bet. ;-)

And damn you for telling that we've both cried when we've fought. :-P~~

And look, would I have preferred to see them build *just the community center? Sure. But how is this any different than branches of the YMCA in Lebanon? The Lebanese people accept it for the good it offers them and the understanding it tries to foster. Why can't we be as big about this?; August 18, 2010 at 2:09 PM
Robin in Montana said...: I don't think we called names. You just would *not see the voice of reason and it made me cry. ::avoids eye contact::; August 18, 2010 at 2:12 PM
Dawn said...: I should clarify...I should have said "they don't allow any non-Muslim inside those cities. Even as a tourist. So it's not just Christians.

For full disclosure...while I most definitely believe in God, I'm up in the air about organized religion.

I was brought up Catholic but married a man who was a Church of God pentecostal. My girls grew up going to church 3 times a week. (I went to Catholic school also.)

I sort of turned away from the organized religion when the church kept telling me I was praying hard enough for Taylor's healing.; August 18, 2010 at 2:13 PM
Robin in Montana said...: Well, everyone *knows how I stand on organized religion ... lol.; August 18, 2010 at 2:14 PM