Stars 'n Sparkle

Friends

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 22:30:00 +0000

The older I get, the more I appreciate the intangible over the tangible. I defintely don't need any more "stuff" and realize that the "valuables" in my life are the friends that add the color, comfort, and comedy to a life that, at times, may be stretched to its limits.

Old friends don't need any explanations. They have watched it happen and just a word or two brings them up to date. New friends encourage me to look beyond and venture out. There is no history so I don't have to make excuses or explain. But I love it when new friends slide into that comfort zone of familiarity and the camaraderie is easy as our lives meld together. Then all that is necessary is a nod, a look, a touch on the hand. Thank you, my friend.

Scott Brown

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:35:00 +0000

Don't you love it when something seemingly impossible happens? The election this week proved that "change" is not all about the Democrats. Voters are paying attention. I don't live in Massachusetts and really didn't pay much attention to the race until it got tight. As a conservative, the sting of the Obama policies for the last year have been very disheartening. It's easy to get discouraged and hopeless, even as we bombard our elected officials with calls, letters, emails and faxes with little affect. But that all changed on Tuesday. The ancient verse, "Without a vision, the people perish" reminds me that we need to get out there and speak up, have ideas, look for answers. Our children and grandchildren are worth the effort.

The Blind Side

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:50:00 +0000

I love it when a good, heartwarming movie does well. The Blind Side has been on my to-do list for several weeks but with Christmas and travel, I couldn't find a day to go. Finally, today, I took Mark with me and we squeezed into the filled theater to watch it. My soggy kleenex is testimony to the fact it was a heart tugger. But, I appreciated even more the story of a family's willingness to go the extra mile and show love to someone of a different color and background. Michael Oher had nothing to offer and little hope but with the love and encouragement of the Tuohy family, his life turned around and his future is bright. I encourage you to check it out this weekend. It's a great way to start the New Year.

Ready to Discredit

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:58:00 +0000

I read several blogs, news sites, and commentary each day. I notice that Sarah Palin's book, Going Rogue, has barely hit the book stores and many in the liberal press already have an opinion or her veracity and political viability. My order of her book has not yet hit my mailbox so I can only comment on the few excerpts I have read online but I would encourage all of us to read the whole story rather than bits and pieces. The negative bias toward her is palpable but which book is at the top of the best seller's list? Ordinary folks love Sarah even if they don't agree with all that she says or does but despise the unfair and often, ugly, treatment that she endures.

Teddy

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 23:15:00 +0000

I watched the mass of Christian burial for Ted Kennedy this morning, not as a fan but more out of curiosity. I haven't attended many funerals and not being Catholic, I was fascinated by the process as much as anything else. It struck me as I listened to the comments by the presiding priest that he had confused some of the Biblical passages. He mentioned that during his life, Senator Kennedy had sought to alleviate the plight of the poor, oppressed and downtrodden as taught by the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Amos. I wondered if we were reading the same books of the Bible since I just finished reading Isaiah and almost through Jeremiah. The people of Israel were reaping the consequences for their bad behavior as reported in these books. Their death and destruction was only as a last resort after God had offered them relief if they would only turn away from their sins and worship of idols. But, they refused. Their stubbornness resulted in widespread slaughter in order to cleanse the land of evil and filthy practices. He said again and again that He alone would bind up the wounded and restore the land and prosperity to the nation of Israel. We can't do it and in fact are told to leave it alone. There are other references throughout the Bible about taking care of those in need but the prophets mentioned had other instructions. Making verses fit political situations is a dangerous undertaking.

Is it over?

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 20:30:00 +0000

Peggy Noonan wrote a piece in the WSJ today that listed all the reasons why the Obama group needs to give up on their health care proposal. And she spoke in the past tense as if it had happened. I'm not sure about that. The Democrats can pass any bill, in either house, that they want to pass. But at what harm to their members? We must keep the heat on and those poll numbers plunging. Hopefully, Peggy will be right.

The Changed Debate

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 22:30:00 +0000

Have you noticed how President Obama has changed the focus on the debate to make insurance companies the bad guys? I rather like my insurance while the track record for government offices is problematic. Consider the Post Office or the DMV. Do they instill confidence? The distrust is obvious at the town hall meetings. We MUST stop this planned takeover of something that may need some tweaking but certainly is not broken.

Tit for Tat

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:57:00 +0000

I wonder what President Clinton and Kim Jong- Il talked about in their three hour meeting. The release of the two journalists was a fait accompli once permission was granted to go to North Korea. We have now given face time to a terrorist and bowed to his pressure for one-on-one talks. AND, we rewarded his bad behavior. The families of these women rejoice at their return today and I am happy for all of them. But at what cost for the rest of us?

Fireworks

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 17:53:00 +0000

Fireworks began yesterday with the announcement by Sarah Palin to resign her governorship. I think the networks thought it would be a slow news weekend but just leave it to a woman to change her mind. The rumors run rampant, the bloggers are going wild, the pundits continue to speculate but the fact of the matter is that none of us are walking in her shoes and know the workings of her mind and family. I, for one, cannot imagine how she has endured the continuous onslaughts against her integrity and family since day one, yet she continues to reflect God's grace. It will be interesting to watch the future unfold for Sarah Palin. I'm sure she is not done yet but is just waiting for more light for the journey.

Bleak Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:56:00 +0000

The current political landscape for conservatives is littered with broken dreams, failed votes, and party in-fighting. The Supreme Court provided one bright spot today in their ruling for the white firefighters but the dismal summer agenda of the Democrats remains. As we watch the jockeying for position by future Presidential candidates, I hope that one will begin to emerge as the leader of our party--someone willing to champion the principles that will lead us in the right direction. In the meantime the only consolation I can offer was given to me in 1994 when Bill Clinton won. I took to heart the message of Winston Churchill, "Never, never, never, never give up." Look what happened in 1996. The only thing I know for sure is that God is in control.

Miss USA runner up

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 01:43:00 +0000

Carrie Prejean is my latest hero. Not many young women are willing to stand up for their beliefs on national television these days but she did. And at great cost. Sean Hannity interviewed this brave woman and I was moved by her integrity and faith. No one is perfect and even Carrie admitted that for a moment she thought about being politically correct. But she listened to that still small voice of God who encouraged her to speak up and be counted. The tirade by the homosexual judge showed his colors and doesn't reflect the majority opinion. Don't be intimidated! Stand in the gap. God is in control of our destiny and this incident is just one step for Carrie. Her future is bright.

Boo Hiss

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 15:35:00 +0000

Are you as tired of listening to all the stories about AIG as I am? If the American people are going to invest and own 80% of a private company, I think we better know a little bit about the business. With the economic downturn, everyone is touchy about finances and annoyed that some payouts to employees seem excessive. But I was not part of the contract negotiation with that person. Were you? I believe we have put our nation in an untenable position by bailing out these companies. Let the normal market forces work and our economy will stabilize. The debt is mounting daily for my grandgirlies. I want it to stop!

Stimulus?

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 14:03:00 +0000

It has been a long week of partisan bickering. Thankfully, the Republicans have found their voice but the numbers to stem the tide of spending by the Democrats are just not there. Elections have consequences and President Obama summed it up well, "I won." There is still the possibility for the bill to collapse but I expect the leadership and the President to pull out all the stops. Senator Kennedy has even been called in to insure the outcome of the vote. The worst part of this bill is that there will never be a recall or reduction of the spending put in place. Washington doesn't work that way. My grandgirlies will be paying for it. Such a scary thought!

However, I do want to compliment the President and First Lady's commitment to "date night." Marriages are hard even in the best situations and living in the bubble of DC must seem suffocating at times. Their attempt at normalcy is admirable. They may find that it is more trouble than it is worth, but I hope not.

Reflection

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 19:09:00 +0000

Eight years ago, I was awash in a flurry of activity as I packed my bags and headed off to Washington, DC, for the inauguration of President George W. Bush. There is nothing quite like the pomp and pageantry that accompanies such an historic occasion. I loved it. But even with awful weather, enormous crowds, complex security controls, protesters chanting, and inadequate transportation, nothing could dampen my enthusiasm and thrill at being able to participate in this "once in a life-time" event. I watched with a tinge of sadness at the reporting of all the "last" events this week for the Bush administration. Good men and women have worked hard for the last eight years and accomplished much. The catastrophic events thrown at this president during his administration are unprecedented, yet he has steered us through muddy waters again and again. I admire and respect this man who openly admits his dependence on the Almighty God. I am sure that history will be much more generous than the present media in review of this presidency. Life is not perfect because we are imperfect people but this president stood on principle at every turn. To President George W. Bush, God bless you. Thank you for your service to our country.

The List

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 14:12:00 +0000

Each morning when I sit down at the computer, I always open up and read several emails of Christian devotions. Today, Max Lucado summed up all of those New Year's resolutions with a great list:

Love God more than you fear hell.
Once a week, let a child take you on a walk.
Make major decisions in a cemetery.
When no one is watching, live as if someone is.
Succeed at home first.
Don't spend tomorrow's money today.
Pray twice as much as you fret.
Listen twice as much as you speak.
Only harbor a grudge when God does.
Never outgrow your love of sunsets.
Treat people like angels; you will meet some and help make some.
'Tis wiser to err on the side of generosity than on the side of scrutiny.
God has forgiven you; you'd be wise to do the same.
When you can't trace God's hand, trust his heart.
Toot your own horn and the notes will be flat.
Don't feel guilty for God's goodness.
The book of life is lived in chapters, so know your page number.
Never let the important be the victim of the trivial.
Live your liturgy.

Since I normally don't make a list, I think I will adopt this one. What is on your list?

Pumpkin Pie

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 14:21:00 +0000

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and I love all things pumpkin. Pie, cake, cookies, bars, cheesecake...you name it and I have a recipe for it. I spend the months of October and November baking and sharing the goodies. This is one of my favorites.

New England Pumpkin Pie

3 large eggs
1 16 oz. can pumpkin
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1 1/4 cups evaporated milk (from 12 oz. can)
1 cup whipping cream whipped with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
1 9" unbaked pie crust

Preheat over to 350 degrees. Beat eggs lightly in a large bowl. Add pumpkin, brown and white sugars, cinnamon, ginger, salt, nutmeg, and cloves beating until well combined. Gradually beat in milk. Pour into pie shell.
Bake 60-70 minutes until set. Cool. Serve with whipped cream.

Enjoy!

Sarah

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 19:30:00 +0000

I think Sarah Palin is getting a raw deal. Elections bring out the worst in people, particularly after a loss. I am not sure if there is any truth in the current batch of stories circulating on TV and the Internet but I do believe it is unnecessary. Polls continue to show that the majority of Republicans believe that Sarah was a net plus for the McCain campaign. Her nomination energized a lethargic conservative base in a way that no previous move by the McCain campaign had accomplished. I don’t believe all the rumors of extravagant spending on clothes for her or her family. Obviously, the demands on this Alaskan governor required some additional clothing to accommodate the variety of events she attended—from Florida to Colorado: the same for Todd, as he stood by her side. The media never liked Sarah and she didn’t care. She knows who she is, what she believes, and how to get there. The citizens of Alaska have elected a winner to lead them as governor but I believe we have not seen the last of Sarah on the National stage. Tomorrow is a new day...especially in the world of politics.

My View

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sun, 26 Oct 2008 22:19:00 +0000

It is almost over. The talking heads hit at McCain/Palin in every broadcast. However, who is missing in this election? President George W. Bush. The criticism heaped on him in the last few weeks of this campaign—by both sides—does not diminish my admiration for this man. I cannot think of another president that has had to deal with so many crises during his eight years. There may have been some malfunctions and slow response along the way, but he has stood firm in the face of relentless scrutiny and second-guessing. As a result, there has not been another terrorist attack since 9/11 and the fact remains that I am safe today. The volatile economy has completely overshadowed the war on terror in recent days but I still fear what may happen under an Obama presidency. The terrorists were very patient as we watched their well-planned attack on the Twin Towers. I believe they are just waiting. Consider all issues carefully when you mark your ballot; supreme court justices, view of life at both the beginning and end of our days, war on terror, taxes, health care, and immigration to name a few. Our children and grandchildren will bear the consequences of this election for many years. What kind of change do you really want?

Joe, the Plumber

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 20:43:00 +0000

I don't think Joe ever thought he would be the focus of a Presidential election. He just asked a question...a good one at that. The price anyone pays for national attention has gone way over the top. Ask Sarah about the scrutiny of every aspect of her life. Those who are willing to stand up and be counted need our support and encouragement. Way to go, Joe!

Don't go Wobbly!

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 18:48:00 +0000

Now is not the time to go "wobbly." Yes, the polls look bad, the numbers from Wall Street bounce all over the place, Israel and Iran may go to war, and Sarah has the highest ratings in recent history on Saturday Night Live. For a campaign that seems interminable, we are down to the final 14 days. It is crunch time! Yes, there are problems: savings and investments have dwindled and the war is not over, but do we want to turn these uncertainties over to someone inexperienced and questionable? I believe the bigger question is whom do you want to nominate the next Supreme Court justice—a lifetime appointment? Some believe that the next election can undo bad decisions made during an administration but this is not the case. We will reap some of the consequences of this election for a very long time. So, my encouragement to you is talk to your family and friends. Encourage them to think what kind of change is really important to them. Remind them to vote. Ultimately, the Creator is the only one who knows the end of the story. I will trust Him for the outcome.

Speak Up

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 14:57:00 +0000

I faithfully wear my McCain/Palin button these days but I have noticed that very few people even acknowledge it, let alone comment on it. Of the few who do, it is usually a whispered, “I like your button.” But, I had a couple of interesting conversations yesterday about the election. The first was with my hairdresser as he was cutting away. I don’t know his political persuasion but he asked me a question or two and I was not about to miss an opportunity to give him some answers. We talked about a variety of issues and I could tell that his busy life kept him from being up on the debates and some of the issues. When I mentioned the possibility that the terrorists are just waiting for Obama to be elected so that they can continue their attacks against the US, he looked at me dubiously. He had never given it a thought. I gave him some websites to check and encouraged him to listen and learn more about each candidate. Later, we were having dinner with three other couples as part of a church Supper Eight evening, and again, I brought up the election. Although, the first response was that it was impolite to talk politics around the table, I pushed the subject and we spent the next hour discussing the various aspects of the race, the economic meltdown, and issues on the ballot. No one got mad, everyone spoke, differences of opinion were obvious but the interaction helped all of us understand a little better the importance of current events. My husband now expects these types of conversations for the next three weeks. But the best part is that he is becoming armed and dangerous with facts in his own right. At least I have one convert!

FIREPROOF

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 15:40:00 +0000

It's time for a movie review after all the heavy political stuff. We saw FIREPROOF this weekend. I learned from the website that FIREPROOF is the third feature film from Sherwood Pictures, the creators of FACING THE GIANTS and FLYWHEEL. With hope-filled, heartfelt storytelling, the moviemaking ministry of Sherwood Baptist Church continues to touch the world from Albany, Georgia. An action-packed love story, FIREPROOF will have audiences laughing, crying, and inching toward the edge of their seats as they are drawn into the world of a firefighter, his wife ... and a marriage worth rescuing. This movie targets all audiences and hits the mark in its message. The storyline is lead by, Kirk Cameron, of Growing Pains fame. He does a great job, supported by many talented actors. Although not a professional Hollywood film, no couple will come out of the movie unmoved. Be sure and see it!

Mess!

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 21:25:00 +0000

What a mess! I am both dismayed and flabbergasted as I listen and watch the latest news from DC. The dissembling and finger pointing by the various players illustrates how important the character traits of integrity and honesty are in the political process. Over the years, I have noticed that once a candidate is elected and moves to Washington, that something alters his DNA. Maybe it is in the water. There seem to be few who are willing to stand up under the withering glare of the media lights and speak up for the rights of the people. No one likes the idea of this bailout. No one likes the idea that saved money and investments are shaky and the future uncertain. One thing I have noticed is that John McCain is ready and willing to put the country over the politics of the day and work to find a solution to help all of us. It is not a matter of fighting for the survival of business and Wall Street but rather, making sure that families do not lose hard earned dollars because of shady deals by the housing industry. Smarter heads than mine are working to find a solution but I know that I am not willing to give the government a blank check. This problem did not happen overnight and the solution will not be instant. We have to stop the bleeding and avert the crisis. There will be plenty of time to assess blame and institute precautions and oversight. As a believer, I know that nothing surprises God. He knows the end from the beginning. Thankfully!

Lipstick, Heels, and a Telephone

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 03:39:00 +0000

Can you imagine what it is like in the inner circle of McCain/Palin campaign these days? For many years, I worked in my local Republican campaign headquarters, which supported local, state and national candidates. I know that the most exciting and exhausting time was those last 40 days when deadlines loomed in the countdown to the election. Shuttling candidates to speaking engagements, planning fundraisers, and making phone calls were typical events each day. Coordination of the ground and air games took precedence as we worked with the campaign staff. Get Out the Vote or GOTV packets of maps and campaign materials were assembled and ready to go. We also labored to find the necessary workers to man the polls and field requests on Election Day. The phone rang incessantly with questions and demands. So many details…so little time! You may be wondering how I ever got myself so involved.

Have a listen.

Campaign Buttons

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 20:32:00 +0000

I found a great place to order McCain/Palin buttons. I know the McCain campaign headquarters will be inundated with requests so if you want one now, check this out. Sarah is holding her own under tremendous pressure. I love it when she said she is not about to blink. Neither should we.