Webutante

Bringing Cannonball Back

2007-08-21T07:43:00.000-05:00

I dedicate this to all my friends who like to drive long distances across this glorious country of ours, especially the man at Invincible Armor. This is a story I did in May about a man named Cannonball who's an expert on, well, taking care of certain parts of your body on long, or even short, road trips.

At least once a year, and maybe twice, I do a roundtrip cross country and love almost every minute of it. This madness has been going on for over two decades now.

Everyone needs a Cannonball in their life. Everyone needs to know how to do a road trip and stay reasonably healthy, energized and safe.

Anyone want to drive up to the Arctic Circle next week to cool off? (And no, Al, you can't go with me.)

What Ever Happened to Drudge's "Hell Storm" Hurricane Dean?

2007-08-20T16:43:00.000-05:00

Seems like I read on Drudge yesterday that Hurricane Dean was going to be a cataclysmic "hell storm" in Jamaica. But today, I can't find anything about it. So now it's on to the Yucatan, as a category 5. It's screaming towards the Mexican border with Belize and where it goes from there nobody knows. Hopefully the storm will sound a loud yell and then lose strength quickly, like some other Dean we know.

Meanwhile, I pray all those in harms way will be protected and safely ride out the storm. Look for oil prices to go up if the hurricane damages Mexico's petroleum rigs. And natural gas prices too.

Housing Crisis, What Housing Crisis?

2007-08-20T09:13:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Michael Ramirez at IBD for both cartoons on the ongoing housing bubble debacle, now underway. I, like IBD and Jim Cramer, believe this crisis can be somewhat mitigated, fairly quickly by the Fed's cutting interest rates soon, sooner and soonest.

Larry Kudlow weighs in with three key points. Cut it, cut it, and cut it.

Meanwhile, Karl Rove, aka Satan with horn-rimmed glasses, thinks the Republicans are in a better place to win elections in 2008 than most people acknowledge. That could be good news, however, I simply don't yet agree with him on this one! But I'm open to having my mind changed.

Sunday, A Favorite Music Video with Chris Tomlin

2007-08-19T05:03:00.000-05:00

Am still recovering from a 3,000 mile road trip/drive last week and coming down 6,000' in altitude, this music really does the trick for me right now. And helps me remember how very blessed I am and how much I have to thank God for.

A favorite quote from C.S. Lewis:

"When a man is getting better he understands more and more clearly the evil that is still left in him. When a man is getting worse he understand his own badness less and less.

A moderately bad man knows he is not very good: a thoroughly bad man thinks he is all right.

This is common sense really. You understand sleep when you're awake, not while you're sleeping...You can understand the nature of drunkeness when you are sober, not when you drunk. Good people know about both good and evil: bad people do not know about either."

Is Your Mother/Father/Daughter or Son Controlling? Byron Katie Takes It On

2007-08-16T20:21:00.000-05:00

Blogger just erased my commentary which accompanies this video, so I will rewrite it in a shorter version later. But for now, I think this process work is quite amazing and believe Katie is a gifted therapist who obviously has done her own work and understands a thing or two about projection and how it guarantees stuckness and immaturity in our lives.

We all are guilty of projection---I believe it came into the world with the fall of man from Grace----but not all of us are able to see it for what it is in our lives and start to get this kind of healing from it. I believe it is a lifetime project of the spiritual journey and allows God to begin to work mightily in our lives.

Larry Kudlow on the Credit Crunch

2007-08-16T07:25:00.000-05:00

"The financial liquidity squeeze triggered by the sub-prime virus is a very difficult near-term problem.

"While the credit power outage is a big problem, the Fed and Congress could provide the key solutions. But the economy is not dead. Not by a long shot," according to Kudlow.

Larry wants the Fed to start cutting interest rates after over a dozen rate hikes, and I agree with him.

Read the whole thing.

Worth a Thousand Words

2007-08-14T20:07:00.001-05:00

Letter from a Friend's Son in Iraq

2007-08-12T08:17:00.000-05:00

I believe that the surge is working and we should support our troops in every way possible now. I also believe daily prayer for them and our success in Iraq is a powerful tool for us to employ. Please pray for Matt and our troops in harms way who are engaged in a fight worth fighting and winning. Below is his most recent e-mail to his family who forwarded it to me. Matt is currently in Ramadi:

Dear Family,

I had someone e-mail me and ask me what I thought about what is going on in Iraq and my prediction for General P's report, here it is. Please feel free to pass it along.

I am in Ramadi, Iraq and as you may have read, things here are very quiet. There have been several articles in major publications that have accurately described what is going on here.

"A War We Just Might Win" is one of the better ones I have seen. We had about 50 Al Qaeda fighters try and sneak into the city at the beginning of July but they were defeated before they could reach the city. This shows what a success the peace in Ramadi is and what a major defeat AQI considers it.

Ramadi is probably (in my opinion) #2 on AQI's hit list after Baghdad.

While things at the top of the government in Iraq aren't progressing as we'd hope, the progress at the local level is much greater than anyone could have expected. The Al Anbar Sunni tribes have been working with us to defeat AQI. Ramadi is almost a normal city again. We are nowable to concentrate on rebuilding the water mains, sewers, and powerlines. The residents are clearing up rubble and building new houses and schools. The residents of the city are taking part in day labor programs to clean up their neighborhoods.

In the area I patrol daily, there are new butcher shops, fruit stands, household goods, building materials,and auto part shops opening up. While there is heightened security and a curfew in effect at night, the residents of the city have clearly"bought in" to the CF/Tribes coalition rebuilding process. These are the types of things that can't happen until the area is secure and you have "buy in" from the people. It is very hard to put up powerlines or fix a sewer line while someone is shooting at you.

I've seen several opponents of the war try and shift the debate when asked about military progress on the ground. They say that the surge isn't working because the power is out, there hasn't been any progress on rebuildingsewers, or water mains, etc. This just shows their complete ignorance of military operations. Power, water, and sewers are the last step inthe secure, hold, and build strategy we are using.

These are the last things that will happen as the Iraqi's continue to secure their country with our help. While Al Anbar is predominantly Sunni, the Al Anbar model is spreading to areas with Shia and Sunni population. The rest of Iraq has heard or seen what Al Anbar is like now and tribes in other areas are using the Al Anbar model as a way to make their province safer.

There have been reports of Sunni and Shia tribes working together with the CFto rid their province of AQI. So while General Petraus's report on the progress of the Iraqi Government will highlight that it has missed the benchmark, the cooperation and progress on the district, city, and province level has surpassed expectations. While everyone hoped that the progress would go from the top down, it now appears progress is happening from the bottom up.

Two final thoughts:

Baghdad will be the last area of Iraq to be secured. It has the largest population, largest mix of Sunni and Shia, and it has been the power center of the country since its inception. This naturally makes it the largest target for AQI and other insurgent groups. Most of the Western press corps is also located there so AQI will continue to concentrate their attacks in Baghdad to ensure they get the media coverage they need and crave.

Second, I can't say enough about what a great job General Petraus is doing. It is my sincere opinion that he will tell Congress what he thinks and not what the administration wants to hear.

Love, Matt

God bless you and your fellow soldiers there, Matt. We are behind you in every way.

Sunday, Seeking Real Wisdom

2007-08-12T07:39:00.000-05:00

Besides One Year Bible blog which I read faithfully each day and recently linked to here, I also subscribe to a shorter e-mail Bible lesson each day called Walk Through the Bible. It's a great way to get started with daily online devotionals.

Thought I would post several excerpts from these. (You may subscribe or view their webpage at Walkthru.org):

Proverbs 2. Wisdom must be sought after with our entire being.

INSIGHT, Nothing of value is easily obtained. If it were, it would no longer be valuable. Inherent within the concept of value is the feature of scarcity. If all gravel were made of pure gold, then gold would not be valuable. The same is true with intangibles like wisdom. She is an exceedingly valuable life commodity, but she is not easy to come by. If we want wisdom, we must incline our ears, apply our hearts, cry for her, lift our voice for her, seek her as we would silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures (vv. 2-4). Then, and only then, will we understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God (v. 5).

Psalm 100. All men are exhorted to praise the Lord because He made us and we are His.

INSIGHT: Psalm 100 is perhaps the finest example of a praise psalm in the Bible. The righteous heart pours forth a spontaneous stream of undefiled praise. First, he calls upon all men everywhere to praise the Lord. Then he identifies the relationship which God has with His children. We are not our own; He has made us. "We are His people and the sheep of His pasture" (v. 3). Next he calls for us to praise God again: "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise" (v. 4). Give thanks. Bless Him. Then he finishes by listing attributes of God. God is good; He loves forever. Make this psalm your personal psalm of praise.

Psalm 37. The righteous will receive eternal life, while the wicked ultimately will be destroyed.

INSIGHT: Serving the Lord does not always pay temporal dividends. The righteous still experience misfortune, financial reversals, physical illnesses, natural disasters, and persecution. At the same time, the unrighteous often prosper, enjoying wealth, fame, honor, and health. David realizes God´s justice wins in the end. So do not be discouraged in doing right, even when the unrighteous prosper. Do not be tempted to copy them. "Depart from evil and do good" (v. 27). "Wait on the Lord, and keep His way" (v. 34). "Mark the blameless man" (v. 37). "The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord" (v. 39).

Fear This May Be True

2007-08-10T00:26:00.000-05:00

Stu Bykofsky | To save America, we need another 9/11

ONE MONTH from The Anniversary, I'm thinking another 9/11 would help America.

What kind of a sick bastard would write such a thing?

A bastard so sick of how splintered we are politically - thanks mainly to our ineptitude in Iraq - that we have forgotten who the enemy is.

It is not Bush and it is not Hillary and it is not Daily Kos or Bill O'Reilly or Giuliani or Barack. It is global terrorists who use Islam to justify their hideous sins, including blowing up women and children.

Iraq has fractured the U.S. into jigsaw pieces of competing interests that encourage our enemies. We are deeply divided and division is weakness.

Most Americans today believe Iraq was a mistake. Why?

Not because Americans are "anti-war."

Americans have turned their backs because the war has dragged on too long and we don't have the patience for a long slog. We've been in Iraq for four years, but to some it seems like a century. In contrast, Britain just pulled its soldiers out of Northern Ireland where they had been, often being shot at, almost 40 years.

That's not the American way.

In Iraq, we don't believe our military is being beaten on the battleground. It's more that there is no formal "battleground." There is the drip of daily casualties and victory is not around the corner. Americans are impatient. We like fast food and fast war.

Americans loved the 1991 Gulf War. It raged for just 100 hours when George H.W. Bush ended it with a declaration of victory. He sent a half-million troops into harm's way and we suffered fewer than 300 deaths.

America likes wars shorter than the World Series.

*****************

Bush I did everything right, Bush II did everything wrong - but he did it with the backing of Congress.

Because the war has been a botch so far, Democrats and Republicans are attacking one another, when they aren't attacking themselves. The dialog of discord echoes across America.

Turn back to 9/11.

Remember the community of outrage and national resolve? America had not been so united since the first Day of Infamy - 12/7/41.

We knew who the enemy was then.

We knew who the enemy was shortly after 9/11.

Because we have mislaid 9/11, we have endless sideshow squabbles about whether the surge is working, if we are "safer" now, whether the FBI should listen in on foreign phone calls, whether cops should detain odd-acting "flying imams," whether those plotting alleged attacks on Fort Dix or Kennedy airport are serious threats or amateur bumblers. We bicker over the trees while the forest is ablaze.

America's fabric is pulling apart like a cheap sweater.

What would sew us back together?

Another 9/11 attack.

The Golden Gate Bridge. Mount Rushmore. Chicago's Wrigley Field. The Philadelphia subway system. The U.S. is a target-rich environment for al Qaeda.

Is there any doubt they are planning to hit us again?

If it is to be, then let it be. It will take another attack on the homeland to quell the chattering of chipmunks and to restore America's righteous rage and singular purpose to prevail.

The unity brought by such an attack sadly won't last forever.

The first 9/11 proved that. *

E-mail stubyko@phillynews.com

Thanks to Drudge.

And the Winner is....Dallas

2007-08-09T19:32:00.001-05:00

Of all the cities in America, there's none I like better than Dallas, Texas. It's smart, sophisticated, conservative, Christian, but much less fearful, narrow and provincial than many--most--other cities in the Southeastern U.S, or many other cities for that matter. The only problem is, there aren't any hills here and that's a problem for a country girl, like me.

The women in Dallas, look like women should. Feminine. But I don't think they know a thing about fly fishing or hiking.

When I arrive here from Wyoming every August for the past six years, I want a total makeover: hair, nails, feet, wardrobe and high-heeled shoes.

But for now, I settle for a Christian counsellor and spiritual director whom I check in with several times a year. I am most blessed to be able to do this.

American Leadership and War, More From Maps of War

2007-08-08T06:40:00.000-05:00

Please note our Barbary Wars when, beginning with President Thomas Jefferson, the United States decided to stop paying radical Islamic Barbary pirates/thugs bribes and ranson from the National Treasury---up to a quarter of all national revenues---not to attack American ships in the Mediterranean.

Maps of War: Imperial History in the Middle East

2007-08-07T06:39:00.000-05:00

Lest we forget. Well worth a look. When we forget history, we are doomed to repeat it.

Thanks to Acute Politics and Maps of War.

Are We Paying Attention Yet?

2007-08-06T09:11:00.000-05:00

Nancy Pelosi is living like a Queen and Congress is in Chaos.

This from this morning's RNC News e-briefing. The Rule of Law is breaking down in Congress. How far behind is the rest of society?

OUTRAGE IN THE HOUSE :

Reps. Behaving Badly: Democrats Promise Open, Ethical Congress, Instead UNDERCUT DEMOCRATIC PROCESS fix vote totals to ensure benefits for illegal aliens.

Washington D.C.- Despite election year promises of transparency, accountability and reform, House Democrats spent their first 7 months undercutting the democratic process, stifling debate, attempting to hide earmark requests from public view, requesting plane and travel privileges typically reserved for the President and Vice President of the United States, raising taxes, and spending frivolously.

Then Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi , the pledge:

“We pledge to make this the most honest, ethical, and open Congress in history.”
(Christian Science Monitor, 11/14/2006)

Top Outrages of the Democrat 110th Congress (If you're not outraged then you're obviously on heavy sedation---Webutante)

FIX IS IN - Democrats Change House Vote to ensure illegal aliens get benefits: On August 2, Democrats fixed a House vote in order to defeat a motion that would prevent undocumented immigrants from receiving federal housing funds. Earlier this week, the Democrats voted to take billions from the Medicare Trust Fund, force millions of seniors off of Medicare Advantage, and tax every private health insurance plan in the nation, because they were determined to provide Medicaid to illegal immigrants. They did this by overturning a law, originally passed by Republicans, requiring individuals to prove their citizenship before receiving federal Medicaid benefits.

Friday night, the Democrats proved that they were not finished with the week’s business. The House voted 215 to 213 to deny housing and employment to illegal immigrants on the annual agriculture spending bill. The votes were counted, but the Speaker closed the vote with his gavel. The Democrats then unilaterally and imperially overturned this result—defying 218 years of precedent. The Speaker reopened the vote to ensure that the motion was then defeated by a vote of 212 to 216, disenfranchising the American people and making it possible for illegal immigrants to receive federal housing and employment benefits.

·Democrats Pass Largest Tax increase in History: On March 29, House Democrats passed the FY2008 Budget –which sanctions the largest tax increase in American history, raising taxes. The last time the Democrats controlled Congress, they imposed the largest tax increase in American history, and today they managed to top that dubious distinction. Though they get an ‘A’ for tax-and-spend consistency, they get an ‘F’ for fiscal responsibility.

Speaker Pelosi Requests taxpayer funded travel on Air Force Jet to & From San Francisco: Shortly after being elected Speaker by House Democrats, military sources revealed that Speaker Pelosi requested access to a military jet from the President’s fleet (which includes Air Force I and Air Force II) to fly to and from her district in San Francisco, along with family members and other members of the California Congressional Delegation. After military officials initially balked at providing the plane, Rep. John Murtha (D-PA) chairman of the Appropriations Committee subcommittee on defense, threatened them, telling CNN that the Pentagon was making ‘a mistake’ by leaking information unfavorable to the speaker ‘since she decides on the allocations for the Department of Defense.”

Cramer Has a Hissyfit

2007-08-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

UPDATE: Larry Kudlow thinks there's nothing to get all wigged out about after today's big triple digit gains in the DOW. I'm not sure I agree with too much exuberance, even though the economy is still in good shape.

Business as usual, but he's probably right.

So next time, Jim, tell us what you really think. Things may get a lot worse before they get better in the stock markets. Best to stay on the sidelines and keep your powder dry.

Hat tip: Hot Air

Sunday: Lon Solomon's Conversion to Christ

2007-08-05T07:48:00.000-05:00

Requested over and over at McLean Bible Church, here's Lon Solomon's amazing conversion story to Christ during his wild days at Chapel Hill, N.C. as a student, drug dealer and out-of-control drug and alcohol abuser.

Today, Lon heads the 12,000 member McLean Bible Church outside of Washington, D.C. where I have had the privilege of attending when I'm in that area.

Saturday: Seven Flies I'd Take Anywhere

2007-08-04T07:42:00.001-05:00

The Parachute Adams (above), the worlds finest general attractor. If I had only one fly to fish the world, this would be it, in all sizes from #10 to #20 (on 5X-6X tippet). Parchutes are so visible for keeping your eye on the fly.

The Parachute Hopper, the next best thing to a steak dinner to hungry trout in season. All sizes. No telling how many big fish, BIG fish, I've been caught with this one. There are an infinite number of variations on this, but, this particular one's my top choice.

The Fat Albert, the new 'hottie' in the world of fly fishing, I'd take it anywhere for anything, in fresh or salt water. It can be dead drifted, stripped or jigged for stunning results. I now prefer it to my old favorite, a Madame X or a Muddler Minnow.

The Elk Hair Caddis, leaving this fly behind on an around-the-world journey would be like forgetting your toothbrush. All sizes.

The Ausable Wulff. Invented by fly fishing great Lee Wulff up in the Beaverkill Valley, this fly, or the similar Ausable Wulff /Trude comes in handy in all sizes on certain overcast days when other flies aren't working. Love this fly!

The Prince Nymph. I'd rather go hiking than fish a nymph, and still there are times when nothing else will work to catch fish. Here is my favorite. Others would argue that the pheasant tail nymph is preferable to the Prince. Either one will often do the trick.

The Bead-Head Woolly Bugger. Underwater, especially fishing for big browns in the fall, this great fly slays 'em all in black or olive, all sizes. You can't fish it dead as successfully as with lots of action. But it's irresistible to big fish on the bottom who are too lazy to come up for a dry.

Sometimes you just have to take it to them, and when you do, this is often "the one."

Yes, there are many, many other choices. But year in and out, these are the ones with staying power and class, in my opinion. Any one of these will match almost any hatch when presented correctly. If there is a runner up to this fabulous seven it would perhaps be a black ant or beetle.

What Ever Is Sean Penn Thinking?

2007-08-04T07:27:00.001-05:00

Deluded, self-important, disloyal to his country, used and pathetically naive, Sean Penn makes pals with one of the world's most insane dictators. His career is finished, as is that of Harry Belafonte and Danny Glover. If they did that in Venezuela, they'd be in prison or worse.

Dusk

2007-08-03T21:04:00.001-05:00

Soon to be leaving, I enjoy these last few twilights on the river with friends before winding my way back to the East and the hustle and bustle of the city.

It's quiet as a mouse when the sun goes down, and oh so peaceful. A warm, gentle wind blows the bugs on the water. No one wants to leave the river. When I guided professionally and the days were the longest, I often didn't get home from this work until 10 pm, many days a week.

Good Day Fishing for Cutthroats On Dries

2007-08-02T19:07:00.000-05:00

Nothing's more fun in the world than seeing people you care about do what they love to do, and have fun and success doing it! Everyone caught big fish and successfully released them to catch another day.
Fish in the net, about to be released.....
Fish on.
Fishing before catching.....
Ditto....
We were most graciously invited to fish some of the best private waters around this valley. Thanks Barbara and the SRR for letting us ruffians spend a day having fun on Fish Creek.

I'm Not With Novak Here

2007-08-02T09:30:00.000-05:00

Hate to say it, but this is why I question Fred Thompson's judgment.

Does he really think having his wife as his chief political adviser and campaign manager is going to set well with the American people? If he does, then I think he's kidding himself. I hope he proves me wrong.

Hat tip: Don Surber.

What if Columbus Had Turned Back?

2007-08-02T07:39:00.000-05:00

What if George Washington had gone weak in the knees as our War for Independence wore endlessly on? Or Abraham Lincoln with the Second Founding? Or the framers of the Bill of Rights? What if Churchill and Roosevelt had gotten cold feet?

If there's anything we need in this country today, both individually and nationally, it's moral fortitude and endurance to fight the good fight that's on our plate and not turn back.

We must not and cannot now turn back in Iraq without the direst of consequences. We must buck up and stay the course, no matter what.

Over at Elephant Biz, Bill Hobbs wonders, Is Harry Potter really an allergory about Islamofascism and the left's failure to truly grasp its threat?

Conservative Girls Lunch, Gabfest and 'Politicalnostication' At Teton Pines

2007-08-01T08:05:00.001-05:00

Over mixed greens and iced tea, four of us--- true blue, er, true red conservatives, all with a gift of gab---got together for lunch alfresco and political prognosticating at Teton Pines earlier this week. We had such fun and solved all the world's current dilemmas. Though we didn't unanimously agree on everything, we came up with several conclusions we think are right on, even if we do say so.

And we do say so.

So, without further ado here's what we conservative women are currently thinking:

First, the war in Iraq is winnable. The surge is really working. But the hands of the military must continue to be untied and the rules of engagement loosened. No more Mr. Nice Guy. One of us currently has a son currently serving his third tour of duty in Ramadi. She gets lots of good information first hand.

Second, we like Joe Lieberman and unanimously think he should be on the Republican ticket in November 2008 as the vice presidential candidate. So Joe, we hope you're considering this and we mean it!

Third, though we all are crazy about Fred and may support him, sadly none of us really think he'll ever be president. Not in 2008, not ever. We sincerly hope we're wrong about this.

We had a gabfest about Fred Thompson, some of us have worked with him and know him first hand. We all like Fred down to the bottom of our toes. However, we think he's a lousy manager. Lousy manager. And he needs to make up his mind, get on or off the starting line and never look back. We think he should not, NOT, let his wife Jeri run his presidential campaign, if he runs. None of us like the perception and think it makes him look oh so weak. He may think she's his greatest political asset now, but we think she'll turn out to be a liability later. Sadly, as much as we all like Fred, we do not think he will ever be president. And how old does he say he is???

Fourth, we sadly conclude the Republicans will lose the White House, the Senate and the House in 2008 probably to Hillary and Obama, and that we are in for tough sledding. Taxes will be foolishly raised, the economy will go into a tail spin and the good times of this Administration will be a fond memory.

Finally, we hope, really hope, we're wrong about some of these predictions.

None us ordered dessert. How could we, when we got real with each other? Still we found a way to have fun and decided to reconvene in the East between now and next summer to talk again. And who knows, we may change our minds between now and then.

Women do have the right to change their minds, don't they?! We hope it happens in this case.

UPDATE: Seeing things the way they are and not the way we wish them to be. This is why I/we like Joe Lieberman.

Why Women Are Attracted to Jerks, And Does Self-Interest Negate Altruism?

2007-07-31T09:29:00.000-05:00

This is a rather interesting post by Dr. Helen at Pajamas Media dealing first with why women are often attracted to bad men, and second how self-interest relates to most altruistic acts. Do we often deceive ourselves when we do and give to others? Think it's well worth a read.

**********************

Note to Commenters:

This post to a link is about two subjects: First, why women are attracted to jerks, and while we're at it, of the female as well as the male variety. And second, self-interest as it relates to altruisim?

That's it. You've gotten your licks in about Dick Cheney and Bill O'Neill. I got it. And my one or two readers got it too. I got it that you hate these men with a passion far beyond reason and you successfully have gotten this across in posts.

But I'm driving this here blog train and it's going to stay that way. We're not going off on a hundred different hateful tangents about whether Kos is a patriot or whether Dick Cheney has perjured himself in yet another ignominious way.

Stick to the topic if you want to get your comment published.

One more thing about commenters while I'm at it: No one will be banished from this blog, unless he assaults me, day in and day out with compulsive, hateful, multitudinous e-mails and comments-----that's only happened once.

So let me be clear once again, I don't believe any commenter is persona non grata, even if I don't like what you say, or worse yet, I don't care for you. While we all want to be universally loved and accepted, I won't hold it against you, if you don't like me or agree with everything I say and do. I hope my skin is a bit tougher.....but we shall see, won't we?

However, certain comments that I, the blog dame here, deem off topic, off color or off-the-wall won't always get published. Conversely, you are free to leave at any time, temporarily or for good, for good reason or no reason at all.

We all have First Amendment rights here. But it's still my blog....Na NA-NA NAHHHH NA!

Thanks for your interest and comments!

Update on Sudan: Al-Qaeda Coming Back

2007-07-30T23:34:00.000-05:00

According to a report sent to me today, the radical Islamic government in Khartoum, Sudan is allowing Al-Qaeda back into the country to help put down all insurgencies against the government and to thwart U.N. peacekeeping efforts there, especially in Darfur where native Muslims have been slaughtered en masse by radical Arab Islamic Muslims, especially the radical militia called the Janjeweed. Al-Qaeda is being welcomed back to join the fray. As you remember, Sudan is where Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden lived for three years in the early 90s, before moving his movement and training camps to Afghanistan.

This is not necessarily new news, but simply a reality worth repeating.

We are in a war with radical Islam. It is the continuation of a war that goes back over a thousand years. It is a global war for the hearts and minds of people everywhere. And it is a war that threatens all aspects of our way of life, including all of our freedoms.

Thank you HR for sending this.

Mamma Said There'd Be Days Like This, There'd Be Days Like This My Mamma Said

2007-07-30T17:31:00.000-05:00

A long, long time ago, I can remember my mother telling me about growing up and becoming a lady. I distinctly recall her saying when I got a little older, there'd be fewer and fewer skinned knees. One day, all that would be a thing of the past as I attained my rightful place in society as a, dare I say it? A Southern Belle.

When, pray tell? When? I demand to know! When? 20? 30? Oh no maybe it was 40? Okay, maybe 50? Surely she can't have meant 60?

Mother wasn't wrong about many things, but today, I proved her wrong....again and for the second time this year, doing my training hike up a long steep grade, happy as a clam, seeing the branch up ahead and deciding to sprint over it, rather than to go around it. I could take that sucker!

I went up and over but failed to see a second limb, hiding behind the first, on my descent.

It was the Three Stoogies take a hike.

God must have a sense of humor because the next thing I knew, I was splat fully on the ground, writhing in pain and humiliation, but fully conscious. What a damn fool thing to do! So I rolled over, ultimately managing to sit up. Then I proceeded to have a good cry. I boo hoed for the first time in months.

The the skinned knee was one of my best.

I took out a tissue, blew my nose, wiped my eyes and proceeded to crawl back up, in fine Scarlett O'Hara style. Then, thank God, I was able to walk back to my car.

I realized coming back down the mountain, it's still happening because I never have quite mastered the southern belle thing, like Scarlett O'Hara.

Meanwhile, I'll being wearing either skirts or shorts to all upcoming social events. And working hard to bend my knees and stay upright!

Tomorrow is another day!

Cowboy Church and Taming A Wild Mule in Moran, Wyoming

2007-07-28T21:27:00.000-05:00

Before (above): A wild mule---and I do mean wild---kicks, snorts, and paws impatiently in a dark stall, as it awaits its encounter with the horse whisperer.

After: Almost two hours later, the cowboy presents the "tamed and better behaved" mule to the congregation. It's the first time the mule has been touched with a saddle or bridle and mounted by a rider. This mule is described as "very smart" and "determined," rather than "stubborn," by the cowboy wrangler.

This guy has no intention of making nice with the wrangler or being ridden or befriended. A huge and magnificent beast, as mules go, its mother was a wild horse running free on the great, open plains of Wyoming. This mule would rather be any place but here.

First steps of friendship.

The saddle's on, next the bridle. When the cowboy is through, this mule will become his lifelong, devoted friend and companion in every conceivable situation.

Last week, I attended church in a huge barn in Moran, Wyoming at a service called "Cowboy Church," where the principles of the Gospel are demonstrated by cowboys working to break and tame horses and mules that are wild and dangerous.

Above, Jessie, horse whisperer and chief wrangler of Heart Six Ranch in Moran, works to tame a wild mule named Samson, first by building trust through simple things. By the end of the service, Jessie has saddled, bridled, mounted and ridden Samson for the first time. It's truly fascinating to watch. Many parallels are made throughout the service to our own walk in faith and devotion to the transforming power of Jesus Christ. In case you don't get it, we're the mules in this analogy and the horse whisperer is the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit that whispers to us through the still small voice of grace.

Thanks to my good friend, Elaine Luton, for suggesting and encouraging me to attend this fascinating service in the Buffalo Valley.

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Here's an archived sermon by Lon Solomon from McLean Bible Church outside Washington, D.C. on the subject how Christianity is the best friend women have ever had. In case you've forgotten to count your blessings as a woman in this great country, or are a man who loves and respects women's equality in our society, this is a sermon you won't want to miss.

Lon is currently recovering at home in Virginia from some corrective heart surgery and, God willing, will be back to McLean in early September. All his friends in Wyoming wish him and his family Godspeed and send our best wishes for his complete recovery.

A Classic Small Western Trout Stream

2007-07-27T16:33:00.001-05:00

Why I Changed My Mind About Government-Run Socialized Medicine

2007-07-26T20:02:00.001-05:00

In a guest editorial in Friday's IBD, a Canadian doctor describes the day he began to give up his idealization of socialized medicine and how it lowers the bar for medical care and treatment on every level.

Read it if you dare, and remember, this is the direction Hillary Clinton wants to take us in this country. I don't know about you, but having a doctor's appointment cancelled 48 times, or having to draw straws to see who gets the next available doctors appointment doesn't sound like a very good plan to me.

As in all things, free markets makes things more efficient for the medical consumer, and government intervention makes things more laborious.

DOW in a Huge Downer

2007-07-26T12:21:00.000-05:00

Wednesday, I got stopped out of all but one of the stocks I personally manage online. When that happens, I get a little sad and mope around for a while. Last night I checked my portfolio, saw the stops had been activated and went into mild moping mode before going to bed.

I told myself before turning in I might have tightened these stops a little too much after Tuesday's decline and the market would probably shoot back up today, leaving me out of the party.

Today at just a little past noon MDT the Dow is down almost 400 points. UPDATE FINAL: Dow down 311 at the close.

All I can say is THANK HEAVENS for getting stopped out of these stocks yesterday thereby locking in the very nice gains I've made over the past six months! In other words, yesterday, stops enabled me to ring the register, and take some good profits off the table.

I'm happy I've learned a little about principled investing from reading Investors Business Daily over the past 7-8 years. Principled investing takes buying and selling out of the emotional realm of fear and greed and into a more rational mode of principles decided ahead of time and emotions.

A big Market drop is like a gully washing thunder storm, as it washes out all the excessive buying and exuberance, creating new opportunities to make money, often in new sectors.

In gratitude today, I am adding IBD to my sidebar links. In my opinion, it's the only financial newspaper in the world worth reading. You can have the Wall Street Journal in my opinion.

I'm an IBD woman all the way.

Larry Kudlow, a real pro, puts things in perspective on the market correction.

Straight From My Middle East Bureau

2007-07-26T09:44:00.001-05:00

Two peas, er, in a pod? How in the name of heaven did they get these creatures in the back of that little Peugeot truck? Amazing.

My least favorite animals in the entire world, they have a disposition only Arab dictators can appreciate. And oh, the spitting they can do with impunity when they're out of sorts. My adorable daughter talked me into riding one of these beasts with her when we were in Israel last year....she loved seeing me terrified and totally out of my element! What a relief to finally disembark.

Hat tip: It's Knuttz

And here is a good laugh, if you liked She Thinks my Tractor's Sexy. Country music, Baghdad-style. Maybe this is really Allahpundit?

Stephen Mansfield: The Establishment Clause's 'Ten Tortured Words'

2007-07-25T20:39:00.000-05:00

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion."

Thanks to Bill Hobbs, I learned about Stephen Mansfield who lives in Nashville, Tennessee and writes books as well as conservative/Christian commentary on current events.

Today, Hobbs features a post on Mansfield's new book Ten Tortured Words: How the Founding Fathers Tried to Protect Religion in America and What's Happened Since.

Bill also links to Mansfield's recent op/ed piece in USA TODAY and to Mansfield's webpage/blog.

I am reprinting Mansfield's op/ed here in full and I hope you will find it well worth reading:

The Founders got it right. Religion now rests in a tortured place in society today, thanks largely to unfortunate and misguided rulings of the Supreme Court.

By Stephen Mansfield

"Two days after he wrote the famous words "separation between church and state" in an 1802 letter to Baptists in Connecticut, Thomas Jefferson began attending church — on the floor of the House of Representatives. He would attend the makeshift church in the national Capitol nearly every Sunday morning for the rest of his presidency. Clearly, his understanding of the connection between religion and government is not the one we endure today.

"We should not be surprised. It was Jefferson, after all, who insisted upon the Bible as part of the curriculum at the University of Virginia, Jefferson who approved federal funding for a Catholic priest to serve the Kaskaski Indians, and Jefferson who once said, "I am a Christian in the only sense in which he (Jesus) wished anyone to be." True, he was far from theologically orthodox, he expected most of the young men in his day to end their lives as Unitarians and he angrily despised the clergy of his day. Yet, contrary to the secular dreams of an influential few today, Jefferson envisioned a government that would encourage religion while neither submitting to nor erecting a religious tyranny.

"Even if Jefferson had envisioned a secular state, it would have made little difference in the early history of our nation. It was not his words that carried the force of law — written as they were 14 years after the Constitution was ratified — but rather the 10 words that are undoubtedly the most tortured in our history: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." These words, the first 10 of our Bill of Rights, make the intentions of the Founding Fathers clear. Having just fought a war of independence against England and her state church, they had no intention of allowing the U.S. Congress the authority to erect a new religious tyranny to dominate their young nation. Instead, they denied Congress the power to create a national church. The states and the individual citizens, of course, were free to be as religious as they wanted to be.

The court oversteps

The result was a marvelous triumph of freedom, a miracle of history, prevailing for more than 150 years. Never had religion so graced a nation without controlling it. Then came the disastrous Everson case of 1947. Breaking with both legal precedent and the clear counsel of our history, the Supreme Court exchanged Jefferson's words for the first 10 words of the First Amendment. The phrase "separation between church and state" — which had appeared in neither the Constitution nor the debates that produced the Bill of Rights — was made the law of the land.

"The First Amendment has erected a wall between church and state," wrote Justice Hugo Black for the majority. "That wall must be kept high and impregnable." Accordingly, the court ruled, no government policy or funds, at any level of government, may encourage religion to any degree.

It was, simply put, bad law: without precedent, unworkable and — given that Black feigned support for his reasoning from the intentions of the founding era — informed by the most astonishing revisionism. Now, the secularist storm troops of the American Civil Liberties Union and its like drive religion from the public square with the mandate of the Everson ruling in hand. Religious symbols are removed from cemeteries, student prayer groups are driven from public facilities, and religious leaders are threatened if they dare speak about political issues from their pulpits. All this comes at a time when America is experiencing a new birth of religious interest, one that could grant a needed infusion of nobility, ethics and wisdom to our national life.

There is hope: Measures are arising in Congress designed to hold Everson's ravages in check. There is also the possibility that the Supreme Court may have opportunity to revisit elements of the case in years to come.

A true freedom of religion

The most important point to remember in this, the 60th anniversary year of the Everson decision, is that our Founding Fathers did in fact make a covenant with us. That covenant guaranteed us that Congress would make no state church but that religion could be free to shape our national life with its ethical and ennobling content. We suffer for lack of that content today, and it is time for us to consider anew the wisdom of our Founders in guaranteeing us the blessings of faith while protecting us from the dark tyrannies of faith that bedeviled the centuries before us. The Founders' plan for religion in our national life was certainly more successful than the confused design the courts have saddled us with today.

It was John Quincy Adams who called to us from an earlier age when he wrote, "Posterity — you will never know how much it has cost my generation to preserve your freedom. I hope you will make good use of it." We may well do so, but only if we return to the religious wisdom of our national fathers."

Stephen Mansfield is a best-selling author. His book Ten Tortured Words: How the Founding Fathers Tried to Protect Religion in America and What's Happened Since was released in June, 2007.

Does This Bode Ill For Fred Thompson?

2007-07-24T23:42:00.000-05:00

Video I posted last night has been pulled, so I'll wait to get more information on changes at the top of Fred Thompson's presidential campaign until later. I most likely jumped the gun about what all this means.

Rightwing Nuthouse has commentary here.

Volunteer Voters has more, and then at the Politico.

Will post more commentary here later in the day.

Our Enemies Must Be Thrilled at the Thought of "President Obama," Meanwhile Mitt's Looking Pretty Good

2007-07-24T16:24:00.000-05:00

Mr. Nice Guy. Wants to negotiate with terrorists. It's not about punishing countries by not talking to them. It's that there's nothing to talk about. Would you really want to sit down and negotiate with a burglar who was breaking into your house or who intended killing you and your family? Our man Obama seems to be more than willing. And it's scares me to death.

And even Hillary says that Obama is clearly a naive young man who hasn't a clue of the real dangers we face. He comes across as soft, weak and way too nice. Wet behind the ears.

Meanwhile, Mitt is sounding very strong and presidential. Sorry to say he's gaining on Thompson. Where is Fred, anyway? Mitt's coming to Jackson Hole soon and passing the hat for some of the the big, big bucks that hang out here. And he's hanging tough about being victorious in the war in Iraq. Strong momentum.

Note Romney's subtle jab at Thompson about running for president with young children. Of course JFK did it, but in the final analysis, Thompson, with little kids and lymphoma, may have two strikes against him that Romney doesn't seem to have.

Mediation and Conflict Resolution Can Save Money, Time and Sometimes Heartache

2007-07-24T11:22:00.000-05:00

One of the things that I have the privilege of doing during the summer months I'm in the West is mediate in small claims court in the county where I reside. Many years ago, I spent a winter in Albuquerque/Santa Fe, New Mexico training as a mediator --- mediating in the courts and and teaching peer mediation skills to middle/high school students in that area. We sometimes trained negative gang leaders and observed how this training often turned them into positive leaders. It was a great learning experience for me in many ways.

Today, I have some thoughts on mediation---what it can and can't achieve---and what a valuable resource it can be at the right time, in the right place, for people who have conflicts that must, sooner or later, be resolved. Make no mistake, mediation is not a panacea, however, in numerous instances, it can be used with great efficacy for solving real problems.

In Teton County and the court here, mediation is strictly voluntary. Approximately 40-50% of litigants choose to mediate with us (The Center for Resolution), and of those, almost 70% settle their cases outside of the courtroom. It helps to have judges who support and encourage this process. Many people who decide to mediate their case are completely befuddled when they enter the mediation room with us--we usually mediate in pairs and often allow observers in the room---but come out of the 2-3 hour process simply amazed at what they were able to accomplish.

While not all disputes can or should be mediated, many are well worth the effort, and can save litigants or potential litigants huge amounts of time, in the form of lawyers fees. Over the years, I have mediated many kinds of contracts, landlord/tenants, homeowners associations and medical disputes.

MEDIATION BEFORE LITIGATION
While there are many issues that need to go to court, I have to say many things should be mediated as a first response to trouble. Homeowner associations (where thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of dollars, are often spent on lawyers fees to resolve neighborhood squabbles) should require mediation before litigation.

The next time you make a contract with someone, make sure you require mediation for any and all misunderstandings, before anyone hires a lawyer. Incidentally, I have found that lawyers often make the poorest mediators, because they're trained to be advocates for one side or another and also to be combative.

Mediation requires neutrality and the ability to keep the process on track so that the participants can ideally work out their own solutions without the judge doing it for them.

If you're looking for a mediator, I suggest getting someone middle aged with plenty of life experience and a practical perspective. I find young mediators too idealistic and often bleeding hearts who can't be neutral or firm. And don't get a radical feminist to mediate anything. There are far too many out there with axes to grind.

The Call of The Entrepreneur

2007-07-23T14:41:00.000-05:00

The most creative and subversive of forces to tyranny. But it takes courage and the willingness to take a calculated risk, as my late dear father used to say.

Hat tip: Bill Hobbs who introduces The Call of the Entrepreneur and links to one dazzling review of the upcoming documentary.

To Me, From Southern Sudan, With Love

2007-07-23T12:31:00.000-05:00

The next chapter of my life is coming, and it will involve much less time in the wonderful West and on trout streams, and much more time and resources devoted to causes I deeply care about and believe in. How many big trout can one person catch in a lifetime, in good conscience, anyway?

One of those causes closest to my heart is Sudan, especially Southern Sudan, where native peoples and Christians are racing against the clock and against Arab Muslims who would destroy them all through genocide---both in the South (where Arabs have killed hundreds of thousands of Christians) and in the western region of Darfur (where Arabs have killed hundreds of thousands of native Muslims)--- in radical Islam's unrelenting, manic drive to take over the world though jihad.

Here, refugees are returning in the south of the country and beginning to resettle around grass community centers/Christian churches that are springing up on the border with Ethiopia. They are clinging to life and hope by a thread, but cling they can and must. Make no mistake, the radical muslims in the north and Khartoum want these people to submit, convert or to die.

Thank you Hearty for sending this photo. And God bless you, your people and their indomitable spirits.

Quote of the Week: Bondage of the Mind

2007-07-23T12:09:00.000-05:00

On the Powerline scroll Monday is a piece on Hip Hop madness by Myron Magnet. In the quote, Magnet quotes Wynton Marselis on the subject of professional victimhood as in "mind forg'd manacles:"

"Those chains are not only the chains that bind prisoners but also what the poet William Blake called “mind forg’d manacles”—beliefs, attitudes, and habits of feeling that imprison you even when you are outwardly free. For the underclass, those manacles are the beliefs that they’re victims, that they’re entitled to be angry and resentful, that the law is an oppression, that the larger community owes them a living, that education is useless, that sex is without responsibility or even emotion, that they’re not responsible for supporting and nurturing their children, and that because they’re victims they never need to be ashamed of anything they do.

This is so relevant and poignant, in my opinion.

Do you know professional and intractible victims, in their own minds? It is the greatest of curses: people who are spiritually, politically and econonically free in this great country of ours, and have had every advantage, and yet throw it all away on the altar of being wronged and short-changed at some point in the game of life. They feel they have a free pass to whine endlessly about their victimhood and are justified in any and all behaviors, as they cling to their sad badge of being wronged. They simply refuse to ever get over it, whatever that "it" is. Their victimhood obviously gets them something and they aren't about to willingly leave it behind.

Note to remember: We're all sinners. We've all been wronged and can find reasons to be victims. We've all wronged others. Not one person is exempt, no, not one. It's not what happens to us, it's what we do with what happens that makes us who and what we are and that defines our character and ultimately our lives.

Where Are The Tough Guys With Staying Power Today?

2007-07-23T08:45:00.001-05:00

Reid represents the new light-weight leader---and I use the word "leader" loosely--who would guide us to ignominious defeat and ultimate ruin in this country.

Sunday, Kay Arthur on the Alpha and Omega

2007-07-22T09:33:00.000-05:00

Kay Arthur talks on the Alpha and Omega in Revelations 1. One day all tears will be wiped away no matter what hardships we now go through.
Some fascinating images of the First Temple of God, built and completed almost 3,000 years ago by King Solomon, son of King David. Above, the inner sanctum, and below, the Sea filled with thousands of gallons of water for ritual cleansing, and finally a rendering of the Temple from the outside.

After hundreds of years of carrying the Ark of the Covenant around in a tent, his people have built God a splendid new Temple, and Jerusalem becomes the center of the world.

Hat tip: 2 Chronicles and One Year Bible blog.

How Does Castro Continue to Get Away With It?

2007-07-21T17:35:00.000-05:00

A recent editorial in Investors Business Daily features Cuban dictator Fidel Castro denouncing semi-legal Cuban cab drivers for making "juicy profits," as gas prices continue to skyrocket. Castro also unleased his anger against Cuban housewives who receive $1,200 each year from rich Miami relatives who send them money to help them make ends meet.

This is a country where per capita incomes are about $628/year.

Castro, of course, overlooks the greatest disparity of wealth of all: his own estimated net worth of $900,000,000--almost a billion dollars, according to Forbes Magazine.

But Cuba experts like Maria C. Werlau, author of a study entitled " Fidel Castrol, Inc.: A Global Conglomerate" say a billion is a gross underestimation.

IBD continues:

" For every economic transaction in Cuba, Caastro take his 'Commandante's reserves' cut. He shakes down foreign investors, state corporations, overseas remittances, and drug traffickers to finance his bast empire.

"....which he and his cronies have used to buy land for descendants on the Chile-Argentine border, real estate projects in Shanghai, and conglomerates from Japan to Lichtenstein.

"Castro also controls banks, drug companies and shipping firms.

"He claims he doesn't own a penny (and he certainly looks that way!) but that's belied by how he lives. A string of mansions of tropical islands enable him to stay anywhere in Louis XIV comfort. He is ferried around in black limousines with manicured hands, and a traveling medical crew at his beck and call."

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There are too few places in the MSM that you can get the real story on how lavishly these dictators live on the backs of those they subdue into political and economic bondage. Victor Chavez is in the process of doing it in Venezuela, as Ahmadinajad is attempting to do in Iran and, of course Yasser Arafat, did to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

The tragedy is they get away with it, even as they, their wives and other family members live like Roman emperors in other parts of the world, away from the little people they subdue and then criticize for desperately trying to make ends meet.

John Tamney, Hits the Economic Nail on the Head, Again

2007-07-21T15:59:00.000-05:00

Without Healthy People, There Is No Insurance

By John Tamney

A recent newspaper headline bemoaned the fact that "Insurance rewards healthy workers." A similarly tautological headline might be that, "Employers reward productive workers." What's surprising isn't that healthy employees would be rewarded with cheaper insurance premiums, but that something so logical could be passed off as news.

USA Today's Julie Appleby began the above-mentioned article with a scenario suggesting that an overweight worker "with high cholesterol and blood pressure could pay $2,000 more a year in health insurance deductibles" than a more fit co-worker under a new insurance plan being offered by UnitedHealthcare (UHC). The latter firm is set to begin offering new policies that will reward its customers not just for living healthy lifestyles, but for actual health results.

Specifically, UHC will offer high deductible insurance of $2,500 per year for individuals, alongside $5,000 per family. The innovation within is that the plan offers its enrollees an opportunity to lower their annual deductibles by submitting to blood tests and other evaluations to see if they smoke, and generally measure up to other targets set in terms of blood pressure, cholesterol, and height/weight ratio.

Not surprisingly, UHC's evolved form of insurance has attracted its share of criticism, specifically from Jamie Court of the Foundation for Taxpayer & Consumer Rights. Court says, "If you want people to live healthier lives, you need to educate them and make it safe for them to seek medical treatment, without fear of financial penalties." Without addressing how the plan will save healthier-living consumers money, Court misunderstands the happy truth that insurance companies are in the business of making money. Wanting to avoid excessive costs, firms in the insurance space will have a very real incentive to make sure their customers are well educated about healthy living in a way that will save customers and providers money, all the while offering the former an incentive to improve how they live.

Court adds that the new plan "is turning health care into a police state." In truth, customers will have a choice as to whether they want to meet the requirements set by UHC. No one will force them to live in a way that could potentially save them money.

Furthermore, for someone who claims to defend consumer rights, Court has an interesting way of showing it. The reality is that the consumers who live more healthily will gain from UHC's product, and importantly, not have to pay as much for the excesses of others within traditional plans. Rather than an assault on the consumer, UHC's innovation means there will be less in the way of "moral hazard" that presently exists due to customers being treated equally irrespective of their lifestyles.

Most importantly, it should be remembered that without healthy people, there is no insurance. Insurance firms prosper and compete for customers given the certainty that some will need less in the way of health care, and because of that, their premiums will fund the doctor visits of those who aren't as healthy. UHC's logical innovation doesn't strip the sick in favor of the strong, but it does give both an incentive to save money through voluntary actions that will make them feel and look better.

Once again, the only surprise here is that such a logical step (sure to be followed by others) made by UHC is news, and more surprising, that it's being criticized.

Tamney is the editor of RealClearMarkets and can be reached at jtamney@realclearmarkets.com

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In our increasingly political correct world, it's getting to be scandalous that companies should be in business to make a profit and to reward its best and healthiest customers. What ever is this world coming to?!

Dusk in the Buffalo Valley

2007-07-20T20:16:00.000-05:00

View from where I am with Mount Moran in the background. Cooling off at this magical time of day. Still great sleeping/sweater weather here at night. But the days are scorching hot!

Hot and Dry, Dry, Dry in the West

2007-07-20T17:20:00.000-05:00

It's unseasonably hot and dry in Wyoming and everyone is trying to stay cool. Air conditioning is almost unheard of here, but it won't be long until AC is big business if this drought continues many more years. Worse still, the fire danger is extreme. It reminds me of the weather here in 1988, my second year as a homeowner, when the great fires of Yellowstone became international news. These fires came within only five miles of my cabin in the woods and required numerous evacuations. It was a wild time.

But so far, no great fires have broken out here, though it wouldn't surprise anyone if an inferno started at any time. Afternoon Chinook winds lash this dry valley almost every day. If accompanied by dry lightning, then anything could happen.

When I'm not headed to the river, I get out and exercise in the early cool of the morning, after a strong cup of black coffee and 4-5 tall glasses of water. Staying hydrated and protected from the sun is not optional.

But (and I know it's a bore) is it global warming or just a normal trend?

No! says Cheyenne meteorologist Don Day today in the Casper Star Tribune.

"Wyoming traditionally sees its warmest weather between mid-July and mid-August and a spell like this is not unusual. Short periods of warm weather offer no more evidence of global warming than brief periods of extreme cold portend a new ice age. We had the second coldest January on record this year in Laramie."

Whatever the cause, we're all praying for rain and soon. It will be a blessed relief when it comes.

Nightmare or Dream Come True?

2007-07-20T12:42:00.000-05:00

As aptly stated on Pajamas Media, this is the liberals worst nightmare, and the mullahs worst nightmare too.

Heh!

Playing Cribbage

2007-07-19T20:03:00.000-05:00

Few things can keep me away from the computer for long. But, if I don't post much over the next few days, it's because I'm hanging out with someone who, like me, loves, adores, to play cribbage. One of two of my favorite games in the world---the other is UPWORDS, a three dimensional Scrabble---finding a worthy opponent can make me turn off the computer, shut out the news and play, play play.

We even have a new deck of cards, along with a new crib board in the shape of a horse shoe! So here I go. Fun, fun, fun, if you've never tried it. Be back later, alligator!

Victor Hanson on the NYT's Surrender and Robert Spenser at Hot Air on Rep. Keith Ellison

2007-07-18T17:09:00.000-05:00

Victor Davis Hanson on the shameful surrender at the New York Times. As a military historian, no one puts this in perspective better than he can.

This is another great video that keeps us current on the first Muslim U.S. Representative, Keith Ellison and his ties to subversive groups that would like to see The Constitution replaced with Sharia Law.

One Day You'll Be Singing a Different Tune, Deary

2007-07-17T23:46:00.000-05:00

One day we'll look back at this time of domestic peace and economic plenty as the good ole days. History will deal with Bush in a much kinder way than you libs.

In any event, No! I won't trade you my Donald Rumsfield photo for this ridiculous cap. Never, no never! NEVAH!

The Stock Market Hits All Time Highs!

2007-07-17T19:39:00.000-05:00

Nobody says it better than Larry!

The bottom line, free market capitalism is still the best path to economic prosperity.

Blast from Our Past

2007-07-17T19:29:00.001-05:00

John Mackey, CEO of Whole Foods and His Secret Life on the Web As "Rahodeb"

2007-07-16T23:31:00.000-05:00

A fascinating story about Whole Foods Market CEO John Mackey is unfolding both online and off. It involves Mackey's secret, anonymous life online for the past six years posting under the pseudonym of "Rahodeb" in Yahoo! Finance chat rooms. In these he openly discussed the prospects of his company's stock WFMI.

The question is, can and should a CEO like Mackey go into stock discussion rooms anonymously, or at all, and discuss a stock which he has intimate knowledge of? And can and should Mackey have discussed, usually in negative terms, the stock of chief competitor Wild Oats Market (OATS), a company that Whole Foods today has contracted to acquire? Did any of his comments over the years influence WFMI's upward movement? Or the downward movement of competitor OATS?

Full disclosure: I have always admired Mackey as a businessman, and made some money in the stock market on WFMI stock.

As an investor and blogger, I will be following this story with great interest, and as yet haven't made up my mind as to what I think of the whole thing. The Securities and Exchange Commission, however, is not amused and is taking Mackey's anonymous comments on the Internet very seriously.

Probably way too seriously, in my opinion. But, be that as it may, fireworks may be in the offing as well as a potential deal breaker for his company's proposed acquisition of Wild Oats Market.

Stay tuned.

TUESDAY UPDATE: Mackey apologizes to the Whole Foods board for online comments.

Our New Role Models

2007-07-16T10:05:00.000-05:00

Weapons of mass destruction? Pride in stilettos goeth before a fall?

It's the Beckhams, stupid.

Sunday: General Revelation by God Through Natural World Is Offered First to All Men, Before Specific Revelation

2007-07-15T07:40:00.000-05:00

One of the great arguments against believing in Christ goes something like this: If God is so gracious to mankind by sending his Son, Jesus Christ, that whosoever believes in Him shall be saved and have eternal life, then what about all those millions of people who lived before Christ was born and didn't have a chance to know about Him?

In our Bible readings this week, we're starting Paul's letter to the Romans, and in Romans 1, Paul writes about this very issue: how all men are given the chance to believe in God first through general revelation, the revelation of the Creator in nature and the outdoors. If our hearts are open to this general revelation and to starting to worship the Creator, rather than just the creation, then God continues reveling Himself even more through specific revelation.

Below, Bob Deffington gives a commentary on this very issue. One thing is for sure, I can't be in this great outdoors for long without being overcome by the magnificence of nature and the sure, amazing knowledge of the Creator. So now to Deffington's commentary on Romans 1:

God’s Revelation in Nature

There is available to every man a certain knowledge of God. This knowledge is attainable by observing the handiwork of God in creation. Just as we can learn much of a writer by studying his work, or of a painter by his paintings, so, also, we can learn of God from His handiwork, His creation. We may learn, Paul says in verse 20, of God’s eternal power and of His divine nature. Who can look at the raging power of the Niagara Falls and not be struck with the power of the One Who created them? Who can study the power of the atom and not be impressed with the infinite power of the Creator? And who can ponder creation without concluding that someone far greater than mortal man was the originator of it all?

As the Psalmist put it long ago: “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, And night to night reveals knowledge” (Psalm 19:1, 2). The witness of creation to its Creator has been acknowledged by many great minds.

Dr. Horstmann testified, “My scientific conscience forbids me not to believe in God.”⁶

Pasteur concurred, “Just because I reflected I remained a believer.”⁷

Dr. A. Nueberg agrees when he says, “God is the cause of all things, and whoever thinks in terms of cause and effect thinks in the direction of God.”⁸

Even an unbeliever like Voltaire confessed, “I do not know what I should think about the world. I cannot believe this clock exists without a clockmaker.”⁹

Granted, there are some who are students of creation, but who do not seem to be able to look beyond to the Creator. They look at creation in the way a glass-maker analyzes the glass in a display window. They note its thickness and freedom from distortion. They observe the size and quality of the glass and the way it is framed. But they fail to look through the glass to the display behind, the true purpose of the glass being overlooked.¹⁰

Man’s Response to God’s Natural Revelation

Man's proper response to the revelation of God should have been worship and grateful acknowledgment: “For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God, or give thanks …” (Romans 1:21a).

Man’s response to natural revelation is three-fold. First of all is the initial act of rejection: Men simply refuse to accept God as He has revealed Himself. Paul tells us in verse 18 that men “… suppress the truth in unrighteousness.” They refuse God as He is. How often we consider the problem of the heathen to be lack of revelation. We somehow view God as withholding revelation essential to the salvation of the pagan. But Paul describes the heathen as having confined God's revelation to a box of their own making, and piling on the lid of the box their own sins. The pagan’s problem is not the sparsity of revelation, but the suppression of it.

Whenever we reject one explanation of the facts we must necessarily counter with an alternative. This is precisely the situation with the heathen. They have rejected God’s revelation of Himself and they have replaced it with another. The key word here is ‘exchanged’ (vv. 23, 25, 26). Instead of worshipping the God Who made man in His own image, they made gods in their image. They worshipped the creature rather than the Creator. Bad enough to conceive of God in terms of humanity, but they went far beyond this to represent God in terms of the beasts of the earth. The Greeks had their Apollo, the Romans the eagle, the Egyptians the bull, and the Assyrians the serpent. Paul may have been alluding to these ‘gods.’

Not only did the heathen exchange the truth of God for a lie, but they also exchanged the blessings of God in His provision for sexual fulfillment for that which is unnatural and disgusting. “… for their women exchanged the natural function for that which is unnatural, and in the same way also the men abandoned the natural function of the woman and burned in their desire towards one another …” (Romans 1:26b-27a). There is here, I believe, a deadly sequence of events. Rejection of God’s revelation leads to idolatry, and idolatry leads to immorality and man at last plummets into the grossest perversions imaginable.

If you have thought of the heathen as an idolater because he didn’t know any better, Paul insists that he is an idolater because he has refused to know better, suppressing God’s self-revelation.

Read Deffington's entire commentary here.

When God Plays Jokes, Whadda Expect?

2007-07-14T12:06:00.000-05:00

What's a nice conservative woman like me doing with liberal friends who not only believe everything they read in the MSM, but who actually help create the myths I constantly attempt to debunk here? What kind of joke is God playing on me when he keeps bringing these kinds of people into my life?

Add to that they have a rare outrageous sense of humor f(or a liberal), that makes me laugh uproariously in spite of myself, and are about to arrive from the elite EAST for a five-day visit?

I pray and then get out the big guns!

Most of the time, I keep my most un-demure sense of humor in check. However, I will need it in spades starting today and bring out much mischief in order to keep the upper hand in my own living quarters. It won't be easy, believe me.

I am about to have a NON-STOP, LIVE LIBERAL COMMENTER in my creekside abode, with no comments moderation except maybe earplugs, a little jar of crushed garlic in my frig, my iPod, a fire extinguisher and a little cannister of red pepper spray for bears.

It's a tough job, but somebody's gotta do it.

To wit: I've just pasted on the wall of the guest room---actually over one of the beds---this postcard photo I received in the mail yesterday of one of my all-time favorite conservative men. He, of course, is Darth Vader, Dracula, and Satan all rolled up in one to the libs (except of course the two other big Satans---Bush and Cheney!) more dreaded than the great grizzly bear.

But to me he's strong, attractive, masculine with a wicked sense of humor. Nearby on the bedside table: The Claremont Review of Books with articles such as "Is the Left Patriotic" awaits this imminent assault on reason.

I have other tricks up my sleeve. But for now, I'll let the postcard scotch taped on the wall do the welcoming.....should be fun. If I don't come back to my blog in due time, please send the Secret Service out to look for me!

Life is filled with irony.

Meanwhile, here's a very funny little clip on that all-time favorite conservative man:

Some Accomplishments of the Bush Era

2007-07-14T05:19:00.000-05:00

Bush and Iraq loathing has reached such a fever pitch in America and the MSM today that it's easy, even for conservatives, to lose sight of some of the very real accomplishments of the Bush era. I believe that history will deal far more kindly with Bush than the braying masses. Here are some things to remember from Invincible Armor on Bush's successful agenda:
Aggressively fighting the war, expanding and rebuilding the military, and
trying to transform it into a 21st-century fighting force;
Lowering taxes and making the cuts permanent;
Security measures such as the Patriot Act, the NSA al-Qaeda intercept
program, the SWIFT surveillance program, National Security Letters, and so forth;
Allowing faith-based organizations to fully participate in charitable
governmental functions;
Reform of Social Security, MediCare, and other
entitlement programs to introduce at least some element of privatization;
The various border-security and employer-enforcement provisions of the
recently killed immigration bill, all of which Bush supports (and none of which the Democrats support);
Appointing federal judges who believe in judicial restraint;
Firm opposition to abortion and embryonic stem-cell research,
particularly federal funding;
Unwavering support for traditional marriage and opposition to same-sex "marriage".
The areas of disagreement, while often intense, are dwarfed by the things with which we share common ground. It's easy for us to lose sight of the positive in the face of constant and vocal opposition. Let us not forget the amazing boom in the economy for anyone hard working and resourceful enough to take advantage of it.

And let us not forget the Democrats have declared war on this amazing prosperity. John Edwards is going to be in our face soon as he begins his upcoming and farcical "poverty tour" soon. I can hardly wait to watch the Silky Pony re-invent recent history for his own personal gain, even as he flies in Hollywood hairdresses to cut and style his hair while on the road.

Still Crazy After All These Years

2007-07-12T20:51:00.000-05:00

For the past 17 or 18 years, we've fished together, laughed, cried, fought, made up, told secrets and gone on to fish again. I hate to admit it, but she's a better fisherwoman than I am.....on certain days, a good day, on a streamers and some dry flies. However, there are days, on a dry fly, a hopper, I can whoop her buns.

Today on the Snake was a golden day on the river. One of those days you remember in the deepest, darkest part of winter! Sure we caught fish, and plenty of them. But it's more than that. It's being out in this magnificent creation with wildlife, great company and lots of laughs. The fish are just the bonus.

Love you, Edie. And John, you are the best, very best, of guides and boatmen. Great to have you here showing us yankee neophytes how it's really done, during your New Zealand winter.

To be continued.

Some Things Never Change

2007-07-12T20:47:00.000-05:00

This is the first risque thing I've put on my blog, but I think it's adorable. I hope you get as much of a laugh as I do from this.

And I repeat, some things never change....

Setting the Depravity Bar Lower and Lower

2007-07-12T06:54:00.000-05:00

How low can we go for depraved American icons? God help us all. These creatures from England---and yes, I know who they are, what they do and how much money they're worth-- look like they've escaped the bowels of hell to me.

At least they're honest in their goals: They've come to the United States to be our new "role models" and want to become even more filthy, rich, famous and powerful in the process.

Who knew? Just two sad, lonely and lost looking people, willing and desperate to do anything to attract attention, to me.

Facilis descensus Averno.

Taking Political Correctness to the Woodshed at Blogodidact

2007-07-11T21:05:00.000-05:00

Several days ago, there was a little dust up over here at a post I did on the disgraceful photo of some of the White House staff women, including Karen Hughes, attending the rededication of the Islamic Center in Washington, D.C. wearing scarves and looking like Muslim converts. It was political correctness at its most shameful worst.

Whereupon, the comments starting flying advocating the respect we should show for all religious traditions, including Islam. I stuck to my guns on the disgracefulness of this photo in the face of liberal apologists for Islam.

Fortunately, Van at Blogodidact came over and took up the banner of righteous indignation with me. And today, he has done a larger post---go and read it all--- expanding his argument and defending our similar positions.

Van continues in a very insightful post saying:

"Numbers Don't Mean Squat
What Vienna VA and other members of the culturally clueless don't seem to grasp, is that a culture is not led by the opinions of its majority. A culture is led by those who effectively position themselves as its public face. It doesn't take a majority to impose the rules. It only takes an active, vocal minority to make demands and threaten those who disagree with them, to denigrate them - to put their face forward as THE Face, into your face, and with a majority who will not only let them do so, but will accept the denigration and embarrassment over their disagreements ("Gas guzzling, SUV Driving...", "Energy hogs.", "More concerned with comfort...", etc) in order to just get along, to not make waves, with just that and no more, the vocal minority will easily be able to rule - they will be perceived as the public Face of the Culture.

Webutante said "... to me political correctness and appeasement is generated by a deep and unacknowledged fear not to confront and make waves."

Yep.

What leaders, good and bad, have always understood - and what the rest of us never seem to grasp, is that those who make up the culture, are only a very small slice of the population. Those who appear to be the guiding lights of the culture make up an even smaller slice of them. They are the ones who set the tone, or seem to, which the entire population will then seek to march in step with - even those who fancy themselves as the 'counter-culture' busily take note of the popular beat, in order to be out of step with it - making themselves if anything even more slavish than the simple follower.

For those who take comfort in the reassuring nods of their leaders and the accompanying phrases such as ‘it can never happen here’, just what is it that they think secures the 'culture' they live in? Numerical advantages? How many people are aware that the US Revolutionary war was supported by only a fraction of the populace - a third at best? That Hitler was voted into power by a small percentage of the population - which nevertheless was larger than the opposition groups? It wasn't because the majority of the people agreed and was with them, it was because a majority of the people weren't aware that they were the majority, and so went along with those few they took the majority to agree with."

This is not stuff you're going to read or hear in the MSM. We need to listen to what Van says and there's more good writing over there.

Old Real Wyoming, Turpin Meadow

2007-07-11T18:15:00.001-05:00

This is the meadow where I lived and worked part of the year for more than a decade. And a river runs through it.

My Summer Office

2007-07-11T13:15:00.000-05:00

Naturally air conditioned. Great views. Ideal way to keep weight down cause standing in cold water all day forces the body to use plenty of calories keeping temperature steady. Instead of using supplies like paper clips, computers and pens, only a few simple instruments---like gink, forceps, clippers---are required.

What can I say? it's fishing season. Presidential election? War on terror? what war on terror?

There are a few occupational hazards---like grizzly bears, mosquitoes, heavy currents, high winds, occasional quicksand and getting hooked---but they pale in comparison to the great fun and exercise of interacting with nature and wildlife up close and personal. And letting your mind be soothed by the sounds of wild water and chinook winds, with occasional hawks screeching overhead.

The fish I am releasing will go back into the water a smarter, more sophisticated fish and thus much harder to catch next time. It forces us to become better at fishing too. The fish and the fisherman all get smarter as the season progresses. This is as it should be.

Catch and Release Fishing

2007-07-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Fly fishing with true sportsmen always keeps the playing field level between man and the wily trout. We fish only catch and release, barbless, single hooks. In other words, we don't kill fish. It requires much greater skill on the part of the fisherman, sometimes leaving him or her humbled. But not often. And certainly not yesterday.

Here, one of my favorite fishing partners, fisherman and conservationist extraordinaire, gently takes his barbless hook out of a native cutthroat, while keeping the trout in the water. Then he releases the strong, healthy fish back to its habitat so it can be caught another day, another year.

Busy day today, but more fishing tales to follow later. Yesterday, this man had to pull me out of quicksand. I'm staying on dry land today.

Bush to Congress: Just Say No

2007-07-09T11:24:00.000-05:00

Breaking news: Bush Just Says No, as rightly he should. I don't like the word "defies" in this link's headline. Bush has absolutely no reason to say "yes." He has every reason to assert his private conversations in the Oval Office are private, just as Nancy Pelosi does in her office.

Saying no is saying no. "Defying" Congress is so not the issue here and shows the headline writer hasn't a clue what's really going on.

But it will ultimately go to the Supreme Court for yet another ruling.

I firmly believe that unless there are some conversations, some communications that are private then everything from the President's office should be piped directly into Congress.

That Congress thinks it is privy to each and everything is utterly ridiculous, and getting more ridiculous every day. And if it were so, it would be the undoing. of our country.

The Queen, the Prime Minister and Her Royal Islamic Enemies

2007-07-09T08:30:00.001-05:00

Please note the use of "executive privilege" in the weekly meetings between the head of state and the head of government. Without it the executive branch couldn't function nearly as well, if at all.

And a chilling prediction on the future of the British government and the Queen from those who would destroy our civilization and take us back to the Dark Ages. Anyone who doesn't take these thugs seriously needs to have their heads examined.

Okay, now let's have a little more of royal watching on this hot, Monday morning. How The Queen got so tight with Sophie, her royal daughter-in-law.

Meet Jan Larimer, VP for NRP in Western USA

2007-07-09T07:41:00.000-05:00

Involved in GOP politics in Wyoming and the Western Region as vice-chairman of RNC for over 30 years, conservative Republican party leader Jan Larimer has some opinions about how the presidential race is shaping up in her part of the country.

What are our most pressing issues and who does she think the West will go for in 2008?

These are a few of the subjects we talked about recently in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The following is an abbreviated Q&A of our recent visit:

Q: Jan, what are your current thoughts on the 2008 presidential election? Is there a candidate out there on your radar screen you particularly like?

A: My radar screen has been overwhelmed the past couple of weeks with getting a new U.S. Senator from Wyoming chosen and sworn in to replace Senator Craig Thomas who died June 15.

We Republicans had exactly 10 days after Thomas' death to get a shortlist of three candidates for the Wyoming governor to make the final selection. On Friday before last, Dr. John Barrasso, an orthopedic surgeon from Cheyenne, was appointed to fill Thomas's term. On Saturday he flew to D. C., and on Monday he was sworn by Vice-President Dick Cheney.

The next day, Tuesday, Senator Barrasso voted against the controversial immigration bill.

I was with Barrasso at his swearing in and after I got back to Jackson, I was a bit exhausted from all the whirlwind of activity. So to answer your question, I haven't had time to really look the Republican candidates over very well.

Q: Sounds hectic. So tell me , over what geographic area do you preside for the RNC?

A: There are fifteen states which include the Rocky Mountain states, the Pacific coast and the territories of Somoa and Guam.

Q: From this geographical standpoint, how do you see the West shaping up?

A: The Rocky Mountain states are more conservative than the West Coast, like California, Oregon and Washington. You could say that many Rocky Mountain conservatives have more affinity for Southern conservatives than West conservatives.

States like Wyoming, Utah, Idaho and Arizona are traditionally much more conservative. How Colorado, New Mexico and Montana go next year will depend in large part on who the candidates are.

New Mexico may go to the Dems if Bill Richardson is on their ticket with, say, Hillary.

Q: What are the most important principles Rocky Mountain conservatives stand for?

A: In a nutshell, we're pro-life and for low taxes, less government, and more individual freedoms.

Q: What, in your opinion, are the most important issues facing us in the next election?

A: The war in Iraq, the war on terror and immigration. And we are most concerned with making sure Congress continues to support our troops in Iraq. The new democratic leadership in Congress, with Pelosi, Leahy and Reid are a disgrace. I call them "The Obstructionists."

Q: I agree, and yet, when Republicans controlled both Houses, including our own former Senator Bill Frist, we failed to get a lot done and this is the result.

Do you really think a Republican presidential candidate has a chance to win the presidency in 2008?

A. I do. I think it's tough but doable. And that's going to be my primary focus in the West: to get a conservative elected president

Q: OK, so let's get back to presidential politics.

What do you think of our Southern candidate Fred Thompson?

A: What little I know of him, I like him. He's certainly creating a lot of interest. I'll be learning a lot more about Fred over the next few months. I just hope he doesn't take the Rockies for granted and not make an effort to come here and get to know us a little.

I have the sense that the Republican party is really looking and hasn't yet found its candidate. Fred may be the one.

Q: What about Giuliani?

A: Think he's gotten a free pass because of 9/11. Look, he's not really a champion of the pro-lifers or the low tax/less government crowd. He's been for limited gun control in New York City, and that doesn't sit well with the constituency here.

Q: Sounds like Giuliani is not one of your favorites.

A: It speaks for itself.

Q: Any other candidate you have insight on?

A: It's still too soon to tell. I want to see how they sort themselves out.

Q: Final question. Let's say the Democrats run Hillary and Obama or Hillary and Richardson. Who would be a snazzy Republican to run as Vice-President?

A: Well, again I don't yet know. But if it were up to me, I'd nominate Lynne Cheney for VP. I can't say enough about how smart and tough and professional she would be.

However, I know that it's probably not going to happen this time around. But I can tell you, she'd be dynamite as a VP candidate.

Q: Well, I agree, it's probably not going to happen for Lynne this next go round. Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me.

A: My pleasure. Please tell Fred to get out here to the Rockies and Wyoming and let us get to know him!

Got that Fred? If you're really in this race, then you need to get out here and meet and get to know these true blue, er, true red conservatives.

Sunday, Reflections and a New Link

2007-07-08T07:10:00.000-05:00

A person will worship something, have no doubt about that. We may think our tribute is paid in secret, in the dark recesses of our heart, but it will come out. That which dominates our imaginations and our thoughts will determine our lives and our character. Therefore, it behooves us to be careful what we worship, for what we are worshipping, we are becoming.

----Ralph Waldo Emerson

************

From his basics of Christianity series, Dr. David Jeremiah talks about the importance of baptism in one's walk with Christ.

Using the wonderful story in Acts 8 of the conversion to Christ of the Ethiopian eunuch by the disciple Phillip in the desert, depicted in the above image, Dr. Jeremiah describes how God brings the seeker and the saved together in an amazing encounter, culminating in baptism for the converted eunuch, who then continues on his long journey rejoicing.

*************

I'm linking to a new source of Christian learning and inspiration today in the sidebar to the right. It's called One Year Bible Blog and is a daily program of Bible study with commentary that can take you through the entire Bible in twelve months. It's the best study I've found, with readings each day from the Old Testament, the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs.

Today the blog is at the halfway point for the year, and includes readings from 1 Chronicles 6, Acts 28, Psalm 6 and Proverbs 18. Take a look, if you're curious, or you have a deeper longing to study and know the Word of God in your life. The stories and commentary are truly life-changing and stunning!

Saturday

2007-07-07T08:45:00.000-05:00

"Life's rejections,
are often God's protection,
......and redirection."

Welcome Home, Jungle Mom, As Victor Prepares To Convert to Islam!

2007-07-06T22:12:00.000-05:00

Rita Vernoy, aka Jungle Mom, has just arrived back in the United States in the past week with her family, after leaving Venezuela where they have lived and worked as Christian missionaries for almost thirty years. She has been blogging from there for almost a year at The Jungle Hut, which I link to in my sidebar.

She knows first hand what's happening in Venezuela. No doubt Rita will keep her readers well informed with news and commentary there, even as she makes the adjustment back to living in the United States for now.

In a chilling post ysterday, she tells of the expected and imminent conversion of Venzuelan dictator Victor Chavez from Roman Catholism to Islam.

She writes, "I can only say that America needs to be aware of what is going on in our back yard. Iran is using Venezuela as a staging ground, a forward thrust into the hemisphere if you will."

The Venezuelan-Iranian connection is a new axis of evil and one that we in this country should be most concerned about. Thanks for keeping us well informed, Rita.

Has Global Warming Hysteria Jumped the Shark?

2007-07-06T15:57:00.000-05:00

Even as "Live Earth" strikes up the band this weekend, a la Woodstock circa 1969, many former believers in Gore's dire predictions on global warming are starting to have doubts.

Live Earth is being called a "vanityfest," and a "giant hypocritical fraud" because of the vast amounts of energy stars like Madonna are consuming to put on and perform in the event. They're viewed as stars with the largest carbon footprints on the planet who will be telling the rest of us little folks how to live our their lives, even as they--- Al Gore and company---show no signs of cutting back their own energy consumption and carbon footprint.

John Berlau writing at American Thinker wonders if warming hysteria has finally "jumped the shark?"

Berlau writes:

"The Live Earth concerts, which start this Saturday, July 7, are also one last chance for Baby Boomers to relive the "flower power" activism of the '60s. In a recent interview in Rolling Stone, former Vice President Al Gore invoked music icon Bob Dylan to promote the importance of these concerts. Citing Dylan's '60 anthem "The Times They Are A-Changin'". Gore rambled: "What's the old Bob Dylan line? 'Come senators, congressmen, please heed the call/Rattle your windows' - what's the rest of it? - 'for the times they are a-changin'.

"But there's just one problem with invoking Dylan to hype the global warming scare. And that is that Dylan himself has expressed skepticism -- to the same magazine -- at the notion that global warming is a catastrophe. When he was asked by Rolling Stone founder and publisher Jann Wenner in the magazine's 40th anniversary issue if he worried about global warming, Dylan replied with an unexpected rejoinder. He asked Wenner, "Where's the global warming? It's freezing here." Wenner, who has blanketed Rolling Stone and his other magazine Men's Journal with doom-and gloom climate change stories (that often bash my organization, the Competitive Enterprise Institute), quickly moved on to other topics after he received his comeuppance.

" Dylan's latest statement may signal that in the global warming debate, the times are changing. Even independent-minded celebrities are now questioning the establishment media orthodoxy that the debate over global warming and its effects are all but over. In a phrase familiar to those who study pop culture, it appears that the global warming scare may have "jumped the shark."

"'Jump the shark' refers to the precise moment at which a TV program loses momentum or begins the process of losing the element that made the show popular. Thephrase comes specifically from an episode of Happy Days in which Fonzie jumps over a shark with water skis. Fans argue that the show became less realistic after that. The web site JumpTheShark.com is dedicated to fans debating the precise moment their favorite programs "jumped the shark."

Read the whole thing.

******

It's been many moons since I believed, even for a moment, in man made global warming. That was before I came to believe a power greater than myself, and actually not just any power, but the power of Jesus Christ, rules the world and all that's in it.

Let's hope some good music comes out of all this mass swarming hysteria.

Disgraceful Photo of Bush White House Staff in Appeasement Attire

2007-07-06T14:44:00.001-05:00

On several occasions, some of my liberal detractors and commenters have accused me of never questioning authority when it comes to Bush and Company. (They certainly don't know me very well.) The truth is there are many things that I'm not in step with in this Administration. Conversely, there are plenty of policies I am.

But of all the things I've seen and read lately, nothing disgusts me more than this disgaceful photo of Karen Hughes and other White House staff in the hijab, bowing and scraping at the font of political correctness. This photo was shot at the rededication of the Islamic Center on Massachusetts Avenue last week less than a mile from the White House.

I ask you, if we had a Christian Center in Tehran, would Ahmadinejad's staff come to our center and show the same kind of courtesy to us? For starters, any Christian center in Iran would have been ransacked and destroyed. And the Christians would be run out of the country or murdered.

Here is a link to their webpage and the chanting that goes on there.

Oh please.

Make no mistake, the Muslims are not looking for respect here, but total conversion and submission to Allah., both personally, culturally and most frighteningly---politically. Making nice with them is only seen as a sign of weakness to those who would subdue and bring us all under Sharia law.

It's shameful.

Bryan Preston has the full story and commentary over at Hot Air with links to other commentary. It's a very slippery slope we're on with trying to listen to and understand those that would destroy our civilization.

President Bush needs to take lessons from Australian Prime Minister John Majors and a speech he made last year:

Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out of Australia, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks. A day after a group of mainstram Muslim leaders pledged loyalty to Australia and her Queen at a special meeting with Prime Minister John Howard, he and his Ministers made it clear that extremists would face a crackdown. Treasurer Peter Costello, seen as heir apparent to Howard, hinted that some radical clerics could be asked to leave the country if they did not accept that Australia was a secular state, and its laws were made by parliament.

"If those are not your values, if you want a country which has Sharia law or a theocratic state, then Australia is not for you", he said on National Television. "I'd be saying to clerics who are teaching that there are two laws governing people in Australia : one the Australian law and another Islamic law that is false. If you can't agree with parliamentary law, independent courts, democracy, and would prefer Sharia law and have the opportunity to go to another country, which practices it, perhaps, then, that's a better option", Costello said.

Asked whether he meant radical clerics would be forced to leave, he said those with dual citizenship could possibly be asked to move to the other country.

Education Minister Brendan Nelson later told reporters that Muslims who did not want to accept local values should " clear off."

"Basically people who don't want to be Australians, and who don't want to live by Australian values and understand them, well then, they can basically clear off", he said.

Separately, Howard angered some Australian Muslims on Wednesday by saying he supported spy agencies monitoring the nation's mosques.

Howard said, "IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT. Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians."

"However, the dust from the attacks had barely settled when the 'politically correct' crowd began complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others. I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge against anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Australia .However, there are a few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand."

"This idea of Australia being a multi-cultural community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. And as Australians, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language and our own lifestyle."

"This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom. We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society ... Learn the language!"

"Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture. We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us."

"If the Southern Cross offends you, or you don't like "A Fair Go", then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet. We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change, and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. By all means, keep your culture, but do not force it on others."

"This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs,or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advan tage of one other great Australian freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'."

"If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted."

*******

Howard said it, meant it and defends his right to say it and mean it.

Life in the Slow Lane

2007-07-05T20:07:00.001-05:00

Have been away for a day and also on the river. Want to get back to posting soon, but first need to reorganize my life. That may take anywhere from 2 to 12 hours with a good night's sleep thrown in.

As many of you know firsthand, the West is extremely hot and dry and in fact, had I not been standing in a very cold river most of the day in shorts and sandals, I would have stayed inside and out of the hot sun. We need rain desperately in the West and if we don't get it soon, there will be major forest fires breaking out all over the place.

Have a safe, slow long weekend.

Let Freedom Ring!

2007-07-04T08:43:00.001-05:00

The above video is dedicated to Caesar and the thousands of recent legal immigrants who have made the United States their new country of choice through citizenship.

Please allow me to introduce you to a proud American named Caesar who immigrated here in 1992 from El Salvador.

Today he is a legal U.S. citizen who works two jobs to support himself and his daughter. He loves and appreciates this country and wants everyone to know it. And, guess what? he speaks fluent........English. What a novel idea!

So if you happen to be in the produce department at Albertson's or the kitchen at St. John's Hospital in Jackson, Wyoming anytime soon, please stop by and say hello to Caesar. He'll be happy to chat with you about the freedom and opportunity he now enjoys---concepts we all too often take for granted.

May God bless this man, as he now blesses this country, his country, The United States of America, that he loves so dearly. And God bless America for accepting good men like Caesar under the freedom of her stars and stripes.

Dwight D. Eisenhower said, "History does not long entrust the care of freedom to the weak or the timid."

Andrew Jackson, "One man with courage is a majority."

Benjamen Franklin, "They that give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."

Lon Solomon of McLean Bible Church outside Washington, D.C., talks on God's blessings on America and how they can and must continue.

God bless America. God bless President George Bush and VP Dick Cheney. And may God help us all to preserve this great nation in freedom.

American Farce: Good For Bush For Commuting Libby's Jail Sentence

2007-07-02T23:19:00.000-05:00

Like the Duke rape case with Mike Nifong, the Libby case was a sour grapes Democrat's witch hunt from Day One. And the hoped for prize was Vice-President Dick Cheney. No crime was ever committed by Libby. Patrick Fitzgerald was fighting straw men,, and trying to make something utterly silly into a grave matter. Richard Armitage who actually leaked the information about Valerie Plame's CIA standing was never tried.

Even Christopher Hitchens, a liberal atheist, advocates the stupidity of this farce and urges Libby be freed forever. All you liberals out there need to read it carefully.

Bush will take major heat and bellicose outrage, but it was absolutely the right thing to do and I respect the president for having the guts to do it. He did not pardon Libby, as I think he should have, but rather commuted his jail sentence leaving the fines and probation in place.

Investors Business Daily says it best. Read the whole thing. More at Pajamas Media.

This from Fred Thompson last night, "I am very happy for Scooter Libby. I know that this is a great relief to him, his wife and children. While for a long time I have urged a pardon for Scooter, I respect the President's decision. this will allow a god American, who has done a lot for his country, to resume his life."

There will be a tidal wave of reaction and hate-filled rhetoric. Captain Ed has more.

But heaven help that we forget Bill Clinton's pardons for terrorists to a great outcry before he left office.

I, like Larry Kudlow, hope for a full pardon for Libby by an appeals process in thcourts or presidential fiat, before Bush leaves office.

Sunday

2007-07-01T07:53:00.000-05:00

When one gives up Christian belief, one thereby gives up the right to Christian morality.....if one breaks out of it a fundamental idea, the belief in God, one thereby breaks the whole thing to pieces; one has nothing of any consequences left in one's hands. Christian morality is a command, it's origin is transcendental. It possess truth only if God is truth----it stands or falls with belief in God.
----Friedrich Nietzsche, Twilight of the Idols

Sermon on forgiveness with John MacArthur.

Saturday

2007-06-30T11:19:00.001-05:00

Fly fishing on a high mountain stream is for people who think there are far too many words, even good words, in the world.

***********
UPDATE:
Tough day on the river. It wasn't the fishing, the water, the flies, or the weather. Pure and simple it was alcohol (vodka to be exact) and a most unpleasant decision to walk away from a man who, in my opinion, was drinking far too much, far too early in the day. I've never mixed alcohol and fishing (or driving or anything else)---especially the kind of walking/wading I/we prefer. This holds for me, the clients, family and friends I've fished with over the years. I don't make exceptions on this. There are simply too many possibilities for accidents, falling and drowning, not to mention getting mixed up with grizzly bears as it is, without tipping the balance any further.

I'm no prude, however, today, I was faced with a most painful situation with a friend, and sadly walked away from it and him. And now I'm turning in to dream of better days ahead.

Bruce Willis on Fred, Does Celebrity Endorsement Matter To Voters? Candidates?

2007-06-28T09:01:00.000-05:00

"He's a really good guy, he's a straight shooter," says Bruce.

Does it mean anything?

It shouldn't for real people who decide on issues rather than emotions and superficialities. This says more about Bruce than it does Fred. But I like what it says about Bruce, sort of.

Coming soon, a brief survey of what some Westerners I have met along the way think of Fred Thompson and his chances of becoming the next president. I will be updating this survey weekly while I'm in the West.

Ladies Day: Hiking in the High Country

2007-06-28T00:20:00.000-05:00

To me, one of the greatest joys in life is finding people to share your passions with. Hiking in the great outdoors is one of mine. And so in the summer, I love to hike with friends--male and female---who share that passion, every chance I get. And we have the greatest of fun when we get together!

I see where President Bush, an avid exerciser who loves to mountain bike, is encouraging us all to get more exercise. I couldn't agree more. No matter where we live, what time of year, we are well served---mentally, physically and emotionally---to, at the very minumum, take a good brisk walk every day. In the heat of summer, that would be very early in the morning or in the evening.

Unfortunately, there are several forest fires burning in the area and the atmosphere is hazy and heavy with smoke----smoke from fires in California, Nevada and nearby in the Bridger Teton forest-----not a good sign for June. It's very similar to conditions in 1988 when the great megafires of Yellowstone captured world attention.

Those fires came within five miles of my cabin near Moran, Wyoming, before firefighters dropped a napalm bomb from helicopters and created a massive back burn that sent the inferno back in the opposite direction. We were ordered to evacuate several times by the U.S. Forest Service, before the end of that fire, when an early September snowstorm began to quell the flames.

But I digress.

Looking for balsamroot, larkspur, Indian paintbrush and forget-me-nots. Enjoying the stunning scenery, large vistas, great company and a chance to get a good aerobic workout.

Why Does Iran Now Need to Ration Gasoline?

2007-06-27T22:43:00.000-05:00

Why is one of the world's richest oil countries now faced with the dilemma of rationing gasoline?

For the same reason the U.S. might one day be faced with a similar predicament.

It's the "r" word, stupid. R for refinery, R-E-F-I-N-E-R-Y. Without "in house" refinery capacity not all the domestic crude oil in the world is worth a hoot.

Iran may have vast amounts of crude which it extracts from the ground and exports to the rest of the world, but it only has enough refinery capacity to process about 60% of its needs. Therefore it must import up to 40% of refined gasoline. In America, we have only about 50% refining capacity to meet our growing needs. And what we have is often stretched to full capacity.

One could only shudder to think what might happen if there were a terrorist attack on one of our country's overloaded refineries. But for decades environmentalists have blocked construction of any new refineries in the USA. (It's like for years radical tree huggers have fought cutting timber on national forest lands, with devastating effects, such as the accumulation of fuel and now the attendant forest fires.)

Now faced with sanctions from the U.N. and the rest of the world because of its rogue nuclear program, or worse, faced with trade embargoes that would prohibit oil tankers with refined gasoline from entering the country, Iran sees the handwriting on the wall.

Like the cobbler who has no shoes, Iran faces the harsh reality of a looming energy crisis, a sagging economy with growing inflation and unpopularity in the Arab and non-Arab world. It also faces the possibility of war. And fighting a war---war that it and its chief loud mouth Ahmadinejad has been picking---without enough energy is a losing proposition.

And so Iran prepares for the worst, as it hopes for the worst.

We in U.S. should take note of the very real possibility that we may face gas rationing in this country. We use much more refined oil than we produce domestically. Our refineries are stretched to capacity. There hasn't been a new one built on U.S. soil in almost forty years.

Not only do we need to develop crude oil reserves, we also need to increase domestic oil refining capacity to meet growing demand and to eschew our dependency on foreign refined oil from countries like Venezuela. Exxon and Mobile are pulling out of Venezuela altogether with Chavez takeover of the oil industry there.

Remember the word for the decade is r-e-f-i-n-e-r--y. I think it now has a new meaning in Iran. It should also in the United States.

Fred Is About to Launch Himself July 4 in Nashville

2007-06-27T08:39:00.000-05:00

As I predicted in a previous post, Fred Thompson is almost done laying the ground work for his July 4 official announcement in Nashville that he's running for president.

He's setting up his national headquarters in Nashville, as he should, and getting his startup committees operational. You better believe that the fund raising machine is getting in high gear. And you can also believe that Thompsom will jettison himself off to Iowa sooner rather than later.

The dems are afraid, very afraid, and are already bring out the heavy artillery to discredit any and everything they can. Look for Fred to use his legal background and extraordinary gift of gab to one by one discredit his detractors.

And already Fred's past lobbying history is being scrutinized, with commentary by Protein Wisdom.

Will add more to this post later in the day.

Thank You, Will, For Helping Me Get Things Pulled Back Together Here at Webutante

2007-06-26T09:05:00.000-05:00

I almost ruined my blog last night by going into my template settings and trying to make some "minor" changes. It was a near blog-aster.

I was reordering and adding to my links on the right hand sidebar when chaos struck--cutting and pasting on an Apple is not as easy as on a Windows/Dell system. Things got dropped in strange places. Then I tried deleting my indiscretions.

Next thing I knew, my blog looked like it had been to a drunk hairdresser.

I'll do a post on my sidebar changes later. More will be added as I have the nerve and assistance to go back into it one day. But I have been duly humbled.

Am fortunate to have someone in Tennessee---a genius--- who helped me set this blog up and is helping me now from afar to restore it to normal functioning.

It may take a few days to get everything back.

Meanwhile Will, thanks so much!

Mr. Global Charming, Unhinged, Again

2007-06-25T10:28:00.001-05:00

In characteristic fashion, Al Gore, Mr. Global Charming, has gotten his paddle out and this time he's taking scientists to the woodshed for a little tongue lashing he hopes they'll not soon forget. But lest you think he diverges from his script, all tirades do indeed lead back to his global nemesis Bush Vader, and this one's no exception.

You'll find his ho-hum hot rant here in The Independent.

If you like your weekly swig of Al Gore carbonated, then this one's for you, Bud.

Looks like it's going to be a long, hot summer.

Come on, Al, chill for a while. Eat some watermelon, take a plunge in the pool, pop a cool one, go play with some penguins. Does the word R-E-L-A-X mean anything to you?

We hear you and have heard you time and time again. You're beginning to sound like Cindy Sheehan.

Our earthly point of no return may be only ten years away, but yours, dear Al, is fast approaching within the next ten minutes with me.

***********

UPDATE: Al, someone wants to make a wager with you.

Sunday Reflections

2007-06-24T09:43:00.000-05:00

All shall work together for good, everything is needful that He sends, nothing can be needful that He withholds.....you have need for patience, and if you ask the Lord will give it. But there can be no settled peace, till our will is in a measure subdued......fight against every thought that would represent it as desirable to be permitted to choose for yourself. When your spirit is overwhelmed within you, He will not leave you to sink. And keep close to the throne of grace.
If we seem to get no good by drawing near to Him, we may be sure we shall get none by keeping away from Him.

----John Newton, author of Amazing Grace

Lon Solomon talks about the Tenth Commandment, Thou Shall not Covet, here.

Psalm 121
I shall lift up my eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.
He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: He that keepth thee will not slumber.
Behold, He that keepth Is'ra-el shall neither slumber not sleep.
The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand.
The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.
The LORD shall perserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul.
The LORD shall perserve thy going out, and thy coming in,
from this time forth and even for evermore.

In memory of Phronia, a native of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, who died January 8, 2007 at the age of 90.

The Dems War on Prosperity

2007-06-22T18:04:00.000-05:00

Short on time for blogging today. However, I want to do a short post about something that caught my eye and stuck in my mind all week over at Larry Kudlow's Money Politic$.

He may or may not have coined the phrase "The Democratic War on Prosperity," but in any event he hits the nail on the head and uses the phase often and successfully.

There is indeed an unspoken war on prosperity going on in this country both in Washington and relentlessly in the MSM. As Investors Business Daily says in it's current series entitled "Beyond the Basics, how media incompetence leads to mass ignorance about the U.S. economy," I do think many, if not most, people are completely illiterate on how the economy really works.

The most glaring of the myths that are perpetuated in liberal la la land is that we need to raise taxes to increase state and federal revenues. Another is that government can solve each and every energy crisies through taxing the bejeebers out of the oil companies. None of this will work and in fact will have a depressing effect on our economy as well as our wallets; but you'd never know it from the ignorant MSM and such financial giants as Pelosi and company. And Hillary is the worst, the queen of wanting to wreck the economy and then having the nerve to want to redistribute our wealth. She, like John Edwards, will have to preach "two Americas" in order to justify her call to unceasing call to socialism and socialize medicine. She and Bill know what to do.

So thanks Larry for "The Libs War on Prospertiy." It's a good one that I plan to use more too.

And finally did you ever notice how the MSM always forecasts doom and gloom for the economy? It's amazing. Likewise when there's good news, even great news like there's been the past four years, it simply overlooks it and go back to its war on prosperity.

I learned a long time ago when the CEO of a big company is on the cover of an MSM magazine, it's time to sell the stock, rather than buy.

It's like saying babies come from storks to say higher taxes will boost the economy. And believe you me, if the likes of Hillary Clinton gets elected, God forbid, she'll do her best to stick big governement more and more into out lives and pocketbooks.

And below the greatest warrior on prosperity. And nice as her ideas sound, they're an abomination which perpertuates many myths that will wreck our economy and cut out many jobs. Her answer is always more and more government and it wars on prosperity. The redistribution of wealth by government is a socialist and communist concept and she promotes it without shame and with impunity. Oh Hillary, you're so vain and oh so ignorant. God help us all.

Israel, Stuck in the Middle

2007-06-21T20:55:00.000-05:00

Earth to Olmert: No more land giveaways for peace. What sounds like a good idea at the time has always been to your great long-term disadvantage. No! to giving away the West Bank to the Palestinians. No! to making saints out of Fatah and a hero out of Abbas.

Now that Iran-in-bed with Hamas has taken over Gaza to the south of you, you're surrounded on all sides by Iran. Iran-in-bed with Hezbollah to the north of you in Lebanon, Iran-in-bed with Syria to the northeast, and you're ever more stuck in the middle.

Suicide bombers to the left of you, rockets to the right, you're stuck in the middle. Deeper and deeper stuck in the middle.

Do you really think giving away the West Bank to the Palestinian Fatah will settle things? It's wishful thinking on your part. And it seems like naivete on the part of President Bush.

How long, oh how long can you keep sticking yourself in the middle without even more devastating effects?

Iran-in-bed with Hamas could be in control of the West Bank in several years.

And you're getting stuck deeper and deeper in the middle, as things line up for a larger war ahead.

**********

I want to link to a post today on Bill O'Reilly's blog that certainly gives another in depth point of view. It's well worth reading.

In the post, written by the intelligence firm Stratfor, Israel's relationship with Egypt is emphasized more than its relationship with Iran. Very interesting indeed and oh so complex.

And yet another very good post, this one by Canadian columnist David Warren, on how Turkey might yet fit into the future conflagration.

Klaus Turns Up the Heat On Man Made Warmingism

2007-06-21T12:12:00.000-05:00

Since man made global warming is fast becoming more a political than scientific issue, it's about time more high profile politicians stepped up to the plate and started slugging it out with the political correctness of our slippery times. At last we have a European no less daring to challenge the new fad religion, AlGoreism:

Vaclav Klaus, president of the Czech Republic, argues in the Financial Times yesterday that ambitious environmentalism is the biggest threat to freedom, democracy, the market economy and prosperity.

Klaus considers the religion of global warming caused by man as a greater threat to mankind than radical Islam.

Mr Klaus writes that “global warming hysteria has become a prime example of the truth versus propaganda problem” and the issue “is more about social than natural sciences and more about man and his freedom than about tenths of a degree Celsius changes in average global temperature.

Vaclav Klaus is a vocal critic of the notion that any global warming is anthropogenic(man-caused).

"Global warming is a false myth and every serious person and scientist says so."

He has also criticized the IPCC climate panel as a group of politicized scientists with one-sided opinions and one-sided assignments. He has said that other top-level politicians do not expose their doubts about global warming because "a whip of political correctness strangles their voices."

In addition he says "Environmentalism should belong in the social sciences" along with other "isms" such as communism, feminism, and liberalism. President Klaus said that "environmentalism is a religion" and, in an answer to the questions of the U.S. Congressmen, a "modern counterpart of communism" that seeks to change peoples' habits and economic systems.

"Environmentalism, not preservation of nature (and of environment), is a leftist ideology.... Environmentalism is indeed a vehicle for bringing us socialist government at the global level. Again, my life in communism makes me oversensitive in this respect."

Below, Vaclav speaks at the Cato Institute in March, 2007.

Non-Stunner, MSM Give to Liberals 9-1 More Than to Conservatives

2007-06-21T11:38:00.000-05:00

So what else is new? Is anyone really surprised?

I can only say if you're interested in seeing details, then click this link and graze a bit on it. Well worth perusing in my opinion. And lest we ever think the Wall Street Journal is really on the conservative side, then do check out its journalists donations. Its dumb and getting dumber, especially on its editorial pages.

Hat tip, Drudge.

Seen and Heard Around Boulder, Wild Oats/Whole Foods Merger

2007-06-20T08:08:00.001-05:00

Boulder is the health food, granola center of the world, if not the entire known and unknown universe. Above is the original store, the old Alfalfa's Grocery, that ultimately became the mother lode of Wild Oats Market food chain at the corner of Arapahoe and Broadway in downtown Boulder.

For decades, you could dash in to the lavish salad bar for lunch and after sitting down to eat overhear a conversation at the next table of, say, a Ward Churchill pontificating on the evils of capitalism and democracy. Ironic since affluent, relative reality Boulder is the crown jewel of the materialism in America today. Not to mention Bill O'Reilly's number one pick for the most liberal progressive city, and it's not a compliment either.

Alas, Wild Oats Market may be the product of its own success and soon gobbled up by the new 1000 pound gorilla on the block, Whole Foods Market.

Or is it?

In unsealed documents at the Federal Trade Commission hearing Tuesday on the Whole Foods/Wild Oats buyout, a lawsuit by the FTC seeking to block the merger alleges that such a move will eliminate competition and create a monopoly for the Whole Foods giant.

Whole Foods CEO John Mackey of Austin, Texas is quoted as telling his board that buying Wild Oats would allow their company's chain to avoid "nasty price wars" and "eliminate forever" the threat of say a Kroger or Safeway buying Wild Oats and becoming a chief competitor of Whole Foods.

Mackey has responded in an extensive blog post that his comments were taken out of context and contends that he doesn't consider WOM his company's chief rival in most metropolitan markets. Mackey further argues the merger would cause prices to go down and quality to go up.

Okay, okay, okay, like what else would you expect Mackey to say? He's a smooth operator. (He's also a good business man who's come up with one of the best corporate health savings plans for employees anywhere.)

A full hearing is set for July 31-August 1 in Washington, D.C.

My prediction is that Mackey will prevail, and Whole Foods will take over the smaller Wild Oats chain for better or worse for the consumer. The Whole Foods gorilla will become to organic foods what Toyota is to cars.

I personally prefer the size, scale and pricing of Wild Oats to that of Whole Foods, but I think I'm in the minority. I think Whole Foods over-seasons and put too much stuff on its prepared foods---too much balsamic, hot peppers and tamari for my liking.

So stay tuned and keep eating salads and lots of organics. Whole Foods isn't nicknamed "whole paycheck" for nothing.

Two from the Road

2007-06-19T22:36:00.000-05:00

Sunday, I was driving in the great plains of eastern Colorado about two hours out of Denver when these horses caught my eye. Although I've seen thousands like them, for some reason, I put on the brakes, pulled my car over to the side of the Interstate, grabbed my camera and ran down to the wind swept field where they were grazing. It was a great photo op and I was completely lost in the fun of it all. They came over we played for a while.

About ten minutes later, I turned to hike back and suddenly saw the famous flashing lights behind my car and a highway patrolman standing way up there peering down at me. At least he couldn't arrest me for speeding.

I rushed back up the hill, prepared to be chastised for leaving my car unattended. When I got within shouting distance, the patrolman was smiling at me, much to my surprise, and asked if I was okay.

"Oh yes sir," I assured him. "Just thought those horses were fine looking and that I'd run down and take some photos." He said he'd stopped to watch and make sure I didn't need anything.

We chatted a few minutes and then kindly wished each other a good day. I hopped back in my car and was on my way.

Now that's the way I like meeting a state trooper!

Loved this great, old car that passed me soon after, going ninety miles and hour!

Are Blogs An Early Warning Signal for Politicians, Even More Than Polls?

2007-06-19T08:09:00.000-05:00

Here's a great piece at Ace of Spades on the blogosphere. Politicians should pay more heed, not because we're brilliant, in fact many of us are morons, but well, just because we do often reflect public opinion and often we articulate the reasons we reflect that opinion.

As for the amensty without security (immigration) issue Ace says:

"We are desperately attempting to get the attention of the Republican Party (and, also, the establishment Democrats willing to sell out sovereignty and blue-collar workers for some votes from "newcomers"). We are collectively pleading with you: Do not do this, or we will be forced to vote against you or sit out the next election, and yes, indeed, we are quite serious about this. This is the Rubicon, the last straw, the ultimate insult, the final nerve.

But they're not listening. Useless humps like Trent Lott are so used to legislating in secret and without public scrutiny that they've come to believe that doing so is their actual right, and that democratic pressure from the public is some sort of usurpation of the Divine Right of Legislators.

I will say it again: Do. Not. Do. This. If You Value. Your Political Lives. Don't consider it a threat; consider it an intervention."

Well said, Ace. And while we're at it I have a few suggestions for Fred Thompson soon.....

*************
A NOTE ABOUT COMMENTS:

Please note, I am no longer publishing anonymous comments. I accept pseudonyms, but not anonymous commenters. Just too difficult to keep them separate. Recently I've gotten a number that I haven't published because of this.

Soon, On the River, Into the Woods but Still On the Wilderness of the Web

2007-06-18T12:10:00.000-05:00

I'm here for a few days in the high tech capital of the world (Boulder, CO) and also the liberal---as in lefty leaning politics---center of America. This could be where Al Gore might call heaven some day. My favorite computer has gone on the blink, and the place where I was staying had Internet problems and so I had to move.

I'm altitude and travel lagged, and in need of a day or so of rest and some serious exercise, while catching up with friends here. So it may be a day or two before I'm up and running.

But soon, God willing, I'll be back on the river, into the woods and still on the wildernes of the Web.

North by northwest soon I go, far away from here.

Sunday Reflection

2007-06-17T21:37:00.000-05:00

Tis not that I did choose Thee, for Lord, that could not be;
This heart would still refuse Thee, hadst Thou not chosen me.
Thou from the sin that stained me hast cleansed and set me free;
Of old Thou hast ordained me, that I should live to Thee.

’Twas sov’reign mercy called me and taught my op’ning mind;
The world had else enthralled me, to heav’nly glories blind.
My heart owns none before Thee, for Thy rich grace I thirst;
This knowing, if I love Thee, Thou must have loved me first.

— Josiah Conder (1836)

Weekend, On the Katy Trail, In the Footsteps of Lewis and Clark

2007-06-15T22:31:00.000-05:00

By Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16).

Angelina Jolie, A Woman Who Needs To Be in Control

2007-06-15T12:26:00.001-05:00

Sometimes exercising our First Amendment right of discrimination, as Angelina has done with the press coverage of A Mighty Heart shows what control freaks we really are. She may be within her rights, but it sure shows her strong need to manage impressions and be in control.

Left-leaning actress Angelina may have left-leaning Brad in her hip pocket through strong sexual attraction, but not the world at large. She's gorgeous but has gotten a free pass for far too long on her looks and star power. The movie has gotten rave reviews, so why in the world does she need to be so heavy handed with the press?

Quotes for the Weekend

2007-06-15T12:05:00.000-05:00

"The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary."

---Vince Lombardi

"Holding onto anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned."

---Siddartha Ganutama

When I see myself or others stuck in our lives, I know there's some hidden unforgiveness somewhere. We all think not forgiving hurts the one who's wronged us, but it's simply not true. Unforgiveness keeps us stuck in every aspect of our lives, and also keeps us stuck to the object of our dislike.

There's no better way to stay bound and stuck to another and the past than through anger and resentment. There's no better way to move on, scary as that may be, than through forgiveness. It's sets us free. That doesn't mean we become doormats, but rather allows us to try again with that person and/or to move on to a new situation. It helps us to take responsibilty for our part in a problem.

For sure, forgiveness is a process, often involving anger, grief and despair. The trick is not to get stuck too long in any one emotion but to flow through and come to a point of acceptance and letting go. It brings freedom, wisdom and greater maturity.

Jesus taught it over and over again. He taught us to forgive seventy times seventy.

Forgiveness is not for the person we forgive, it's for us, the one who forgives. It allows us freedom to move on with our lives. Children who can't or won't forgive their parents, for whatever reason, stay forever adolescents who cannot move on ---personally, professionally, spiritually---until they do. The same goes for anyone who won't forgive.

Want to feel close to someone in a negative way? Then take up a gripe with them and not forgive them. It's sort of a negative way out of lonliness, but oh so destructive, and only creates more loneliness in the end.

Friday, Triple Witching Day for the Markets

2007-06-15T08:55:00.000-05:00

It's always nice to know when to expect volatility in the stock market. Today, Friday June 15, is just one of those days.

It's a triple witching day, when options, futures and commodities all expire at once. You can expect volatility and profit taking.

Tom S. my stock broker, was kind enough to send me a little piece on it:

"This week is Quadruple Witching Week and that, in and of itself, suggests a high probability of volatility in the markets.

That coincides with the fact that the NYSE Bullish Percent is at high levels and the short term indicators are on sell signals. Quadruple Witching occurs when stock options, futures, futures options, and stock futures options all expire on the same day.

June 15th will be the second triple witching of 2007, the first coming the third Friday in March.

One strategy that we have found that works well during this Quadruple Witching week is if you want to buy a stock put the order in a couple of points below the market, and if you want to sell a stock put the order in to sell a couple of points above the market. Sometimes you get executed on both your buy and sell tickets."

Thanks Tom for keeping me up and educated.

Won't go into anymore detail, but it's nice to know and adjust accordingly. Posts like this don't get many comments, however, I'm a student of the markets and so occasionally want to post what interests me here marketwise.

John Prine and Mac Wiseman, Authentic Country At Its Best

2007-06-14T18:13:00.000-05:00

Every now and then a country CD comes along that knocks my socks off. This one by John Prine and Mac Wiseman is right up my alley. With songs like Old Cape Cod, The Old Rugged Cross and I Come to the Garden Alone, just to name a few, you're sure to find a feeling tone that suits you. It's authentic country and gospel at its best with a twang.

And I, being an average person, love these standard songs.

Get it and then enjoy country music the way it's meant to be.

And thanks 2E, my northern citygirl friend for introducing me to this one, even though I should have been the one to introduce you.......a bit embarrassing for a southern, country girl to be shown up by a Yankee, of all things......humbled again.

Shame on the MSM for Dumbing Down the Dazzling Economy and the Beneficial Effects of Tax Cuts on Revenues

2007-06-14T09:34:00.000-05:00

This from an editorial in Investors Business Daily today entitled: The Tax Story Media Invariable Bury:

"One of the assertions that the media make most often about the U.S. economy is that President Bush's tax cuts didn't do what he promised. But the data clearly show nothing could be farther from the truth.

"Bush lowered taxes in both 2001 and 2003. during the debate for both rounds of reductions, it was repeatedly asserted that tax cuts would lead to lower revenues and not pay off with higher economic growth.

"Wrong on both counts.

"A cursory look at the data---and that's all it takes, so shame on the media for misreporting---show tax revenues have surged, SURGED, since the tax cuts went into effect."

The truth is much of the MSM and members of Congress are shamefully illiterate about the ways the economy really works, and do a great disservice to our citizens in trying to perpetuate the myth that higher taxes bring in higher revenues.

IBD concludes its editorial today with the following:

"Another poll, this from the American Enterprise Institute, found that most people think they should be paying from 10% to 25% of income on taxes. Right now, the actual number is over 30%. So it's not a stretch to say that most people feel they're overtaxed.

"This is why Bush's tax cuts are so popular. And why they need to be kept in place.

"If they're allowed to lapse, as Democrats, and certainly Hillary, would like, it could be big troube for the economy. A study earlier this year by economists Tracy Foertsch and Ralph Rector found scrapping Bush's tax cuts would,

********deprive GDP by $75 billion a year.

********Cost 709,000 jobs annually.

********Lower personal incomes by almost $200 billion.

"Note to tax raisers in Washington and the media who carry their water: TAX CUTS WORK.

"They did for Coolidge, they did for Kennedy, they did for Reagan. Now they're doing so for Bush."

Amen, brothers at IBD.

Fred Thompson's Most Recent Interview at the Hoover Institute

2007-06-13T11:27:00.000-05:00

Well worth watching.

Boundaries of Israel, Ancient Verses Modern

2007-06-13T08:32:00.001-05:00

Lest we think that modern Israel is taking up too much oxygen in the Middle East, above is a map of the Land of the Jews in Solomon's time, 3000 years ago in light yellow, verses the land of the Jews today, in green. Presently, Olmert is considering giving away even more of Israel---the Golan Heights---to appease the Palestineans!

Israel, the incredible shrinking democracy.

Short-term Predictions: Fred Thompson

2007-06-12T08:20:00.000-05:00

Predicting the future is always risky business, and obviously things can turn on a dime. Having said that, however, I'd like to make a few political predictions that cover the next few months:

First and foremost, I predict Fred Thompson will officially announce his candidacy for president of the United States on the same day this country declared its independence, July 4. He will do this in his home state of Tennessee, making his announcement on the steps of the state capital in Nashville. He will then visit his hometown of Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, to get back to his roots because his campaign will in large measure highlight his southern, small town, working class origins.

Second, I think Fred will go great guns, entering and dueling in the Republican Iowa Straw Poll scheduled for August 11. Whether Giuliani or McCain decide they're in or out of the Iowa process, Thompson will be IN and KO at least one or two Republican contenders, most likely Mitt Romney.

Third, I predict Fred will turn his efforts for the rest of the summer to fundraising for the long campaign ahead. He will hone his Internet presence and make the most of his knack for campaigning his own way, on his own terms. The longer he's in the race, the more unique and authentic Thompson's campaign will become. He knows if he's not having some fun in the midst of all the terminal seriousness, all the money in the world won't get him elected.

Fourth, I believe Fred will be thinking long and hard about a running mate, if he wins the nomination. It will surely have to be either a woman or a minority candidate to contend with a Hillary/Obama or Hillary/Richardson ticket. Could a Michael Steele or Michelle Malkin be in his future?

And finally, Thompson's new wife, Jeri Kehn, will ride herd on him and make sure he watches his diet, exercises and gets plenty of rest on the campaign trail. Dr. Bill Frist will be watching over Thompson as well, making sure he behaves himself in the health department. If Thompson becomes President, he will appoint Frist to the post of U.S. Surgeon General. Frist will be much better at this than he was as Senate Majority Leader, because it's where his heart is.

Whatever happens next, Fred Thompson will liven the place up for the long seige ahead. So stay tuned and get plenty of rest cause we're all gonna need it! Oh, and save your sense of humor for some upcoming Fred Thompsonisms.