Alasandra's Place

Is Valentines a Commercial Scam?

2012-02-10T17:11:00.001-06:00

Well yeah kinda just like Christmas, Easter and Halloween. But as a woman I still appreciate the pure romance of the day so. Some ideas for an inexpensive Valentines.

A homemade card. No woman is going to be upset by hearing you love her in your own words.

Flowers are always nice but if roses are out of your budget do something special with her, watch a movie that she wants to see, go for a long walk on the beach (weather permitting or cuddle up on the couch if it's cold), create a romantic dinner for two, listen to romantic music with her. Whatever your special lady enjoys tailor the day to her likes.

Guys what would make Valentines special for you?

What A Crock of BS

2012-02-07T13:55:00.001-06:00

Planned Parenthood's Hostages by ROBERT P. GEORGE AND O. CARTER SNEAD is the biggest load of BS I have had the misfortune of reading in awhile.

The bulk of Planned Parenthoods Services (38%) are for screening for Sexually Transmitted Infections and Sexually Transmitted. Diseases. 33.5% is for Contraceptive use to prevent unwanted pregnancies thus ensuring there will be FEWER women seeking abortions. Cancer Screening & Prevention was 14.5%, Pregnancy Test & Prenatal Services 10.4% while abortions made up a measly 3% of their services. George and Snead's statement that "Planned Parenthood does little in the way of screening for breast cancer. But the organization is very much in the business of selling abortions—" can only leave one scratching ones head in disbelief at the stupidity it would take to arrive at such a conclusion, I mean these loons believe that Cancer Screening & Prevention which is 14.5% is doing little, but then turns around and implies that 3% abortions is some how MORE. Guess these guys FAILED MATH.

Then they imply that Planned Parenthood was somehow in the wrong when they publicly announced that Komen was pulling their funding. Less be clear here a loss of funding means a loss of services to the women and men they serve. They had an obligation to let the public know that some of their service might be severely curtailed by this funding loss. George and Snead further state that those of us who support Planned Parenthood were somehow WRONG to let Komen know we would no longer be donating to them and why a tactic the WINGNUTS have been using for years. Less be clear here donating to anyone is a choice. I have every right to only donate to organizations that appeal to my beliefs (just like the WINGNUTS do). When Komen caved to the Religious Rights demands that they take their side in the "cultural wars" and end funding to Planned Parenthood I had every right to decide that Komen was no longer worthy of my donations.

George and Snead then pull the "Victim Card" implying that those suffering from breast cancer will be the ones "hurt" by lack of support for Komen. This is utter nonsense there are other more worthy charities that one can donate to that fight breast cancer. To name a few:

Breast Cancer Action
Breast Cancer Fund
Planned Parenthood (for those who wish you can specify that the donation only be used for Mammograms and manual breast exams)
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

George and Snead apparently missed the memo that Penn State (which also receives grants from Komen) is currently the subject of a federal government investigation (allegations of sexual abuse at Penn State.), and that like the Planned Parenthood grant, the Penn State grant appears to violate a new internal rule at Komen that bans grants to organizations that are under investigation by federal, state, or local governments (the Komen rule has since been changed). But that only the Planned Parenthood grant was cancelled. Read more at ~ Mother Jones.

For further reading
Why Fiscal Conservatives Should Embrace Planned Parenthood

Link to some Great Celtic Music

2012-02-05T10:41:00.002-06:00

Will Millar

The Pink Goliath Falls

2012-02-05T09:28:00.000-06:00

Many of us supported Komen for the Cure because we thought their mission was to cure cancer, specifically breast cancer. When we discovered that they were bullying other organizations that genuinely wanted to find a cure for cancer forcing them to spend money on lawsuits that would have went to cancer research, when we discovered they cut funding for preventive care for low income women at Planned Parenthood and when we realized that they were being less then truthful about the link between BPA's and Breast Cancer we were outraged. You can read more here and here

To add to that list of transgressions

Late last year, Komen decided to cut $12 million from funding for embryonic stem cell research, gradually pushing off organizations that were using stem cells. Goldberg said it may also be politically motivated.

"Let's not forget that this organization is surrounded by a person, Nancy Brinker, who is a major Republican donor, she’s been a major figure in the Republican Party. Their new senior vice president for public policy (Karen Handel) was an anti-abortion candidate for the governorship of Georgia,” he said. "It's become clear ... that this organization, or at least some of its leaders, lean a certain direction." ~Post-Planned Parenthood, stem cell research may be Komen's next controversy

It's worth noting that "Nancy G. Brinker earned $417,171 in 2010 serving as CEO and President of Komen for the Cure".

Nancy G. Brinker earned $417,171 to serve as a board member and CEO. She also earned a space $541 in other compensation.

Including Brinker, Komen has 18 people who earn above $100,000. Six earn more than $200,000, including former CEO and president Hala Moddelmog, who earned $277,000 despite working no hours.

Elizabeth Thompson and Katrina McGhee — the former president and executive vice president, respectively — earned $216,000 each. In additon Thompson was compensated $16,177 and McGhee was compensated $12,204.

Mark Nadolny, chief financial officer, earned $277,000 and was compensated $17,280.

Jonathan Blum, general counsel and secretary, earned $210,269 and was compensated $22,124.

Justin Ricketts, CIO, earned $209,541. and was compensated $17,213. ~Peoria Pundit

Apparently now Komen is more about fundrasing so they can pay the bloated salaries of their executives then actually helping women with breast cancer.

As a Marketing Major I have to applaud Komen's intensive marketing strategy, until recently I did not realize there were worthier breast cancer organizations I could donate to. They did a brilliant job of overshadowing the worthier competition.

Donate to

Breast Cancer Action
Breast Cancer Fund
Planned Parenthood (for those who wish you can specify that the donation only be used for Mammograms and breast exams)
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

Can Komen recover from their PR nightmare. Hopefully not unless they go back to their core mission of ending breast cancer and stop their bullying of other charities who are seeking cancer cures. Komen has lost the trust of the majority of their donors, their reversal over funding Planned Parenthood merely angered the wingnuts without reassuring anyone that Komen really cared about women.

For further reading:
How Susan G. Komen for the Cure affects other cancer non-profits

Eradicate, Treat, Stop, Prevent Breast Cancer just don't Cure it

2012-02-03T15:49:00.000-06:00

After deciding to boycott Susan G. Komen "for the Cure®" Foundation I decided to search for other ways to help eradicate, treat, stop, prevent (I don't dare use the C word cause Komen's bullies might accuse me of copyright infringement) breast cancer. Here are some ideas:

Donate to

Breast Cancer Action
Breast Cancer Fund
Planned Parenthood (for those who wish you can specify that the donation only be used for Mammograms)
Avon Walk for Breast Cancer

Organize Walks, Runs, and other Fundraisers to ERADICATE BREAST CANCER, TREAT BREAST CANCER, STOP BREAST CANCER, PREVENT BREAST CANCER. Don't use Komen's trademark slogan so they can't sic their bullies on your fundraiser.

Since I will no longer purchase products sporting Komen's pink ribbon I'll donate the difference between the product I do buy and the pink ribbon product. For example when I buy cereal I'll bypass the brand sporting the pink ribbon (which generally cost more) and buy another cereal. If it's cheaper I'll donate the difference to one of the above charities. If the price is the same I'll figure out the percentage the charity would have received and send that at the end of the month. So while Komen's will not be getting any of my cash breast cancer research and prevention will not be losing out. And yes, it'll mean more work for me, as I'll have to keep track of the difference/precentage and mail in a check to the charity instead of conveniently paying at the cash register BUT knowing a bully won't be receiving my funds makes the extra work worth it.

Cervical Cancer and Ovarian Cancer which don't have cute little pink ribbons and a foundation giant like Komen associated with them lose out on funding and research to breast cancer. So please consider remembering Cervical and Ovarian Cancer as well when you donate.

Ovarian Cancer Research Fund
Foundation for Women's Cancer

and the American Cancer Society helps fight ALL cancer.

The Pink Ribbon Lie

2012-02-03T09:16:00.002-06:00

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Foundation with their PINK RIBBON merchandise has long been associated with fighting breast cancer. Now apparently they are more interested in raising money, then saving lives. Due to the million dollar donations the Susan G. Komen Foundation receives from a large number of companies that use Bisphenol A. (BPA) in their products they have chosen to ignore the link between BPA and Breast Cancer.

Thus, not only does early exposure to BPA lead to an increased risk for development of breast tumors, but exposure to BPA during chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer may make the treatment less effective. Recent data further suggests that BPA leads normal human breast cells to behave like cancer cells, and indicates that BPA may also make cells less responsive to the cancer-inhibiting effects of the anti-estrogen tamoxifen (Goodson, 2011).

The Breast Cancer Fund

Although The Breast Cancer Fund has tallied 22 studies that have found that exposure to BPA increase the risk of breast cancer or worsen it's prognosis Komen continues to maintain on their website that BPA is "safe".

A study published in the Oxford University Press journal, Carcinogenesis, concludes that healthy breast cells exposed to bisphenol-A (BPA) and methylparaben, a common ingredient in beauty products, change from normal and begin to grow and survive like cancer cells. This new research also indicates that BPA exposure may reduce the effectiveness of certain popular and promising breast cancer drugs.

California Pacific Medical Center

Komen has also stopped their funding of Planned Parenthood which performed more than 4 million breast exams over the past five years, including nearly 170,000 as a result of Komen grants. According to Komen the decision stemmed from newly adopted criteria barring grants to organizations "under investigation". But apparently they aren't applying their new criteria to all the organizations that apply for grants.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure, which recently announced that it is ending grants to Planned Parenthood for breast cancer screening because of a controversial investigation launched by an anti-abortion Republican congressman, currently funds cancer research at the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center to the tune of $7.5 million. Like Planned Parenthood, Penn State is currently the subject of a federal government investigation, and like the Planned Parenthood grant, the Penn State grant appears to violate a new internal rule at Komen that bans grants to organizations that are under investigation by federal, state, or local governments. But so far, only the Planned Parenthood grants appear to have been cancelled. ~ Mother Jones

If this isn't enough to make you think twice about supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure maybe their bullying of other organizations will be.

In addition to raising millions of dollars a year for breast cancer research, fundraising giant Susan G. Komen for the Cure has a lesser-known mission that eats up donor funds: patrolling the waters for other charities and events around the country that use any variation of "for the cure" in their names.

"It happened to my family," said Roxanne Donovan, whose sister runs Kites for a Cure, a family kite-flying event that raises money for lung cancer research. "They came after us ferociously with a big law firm. They said they own 'cure' in a name and we had to stop using it, even though we were raising money for an entirely different cause.

Donovan's sister, Mary Ann Tighe, said the Komen foundation sent her a letter asking her to stop using the phrase "for a cure" in their title and to never use the color pink in conjunction with their fundraising. What bothered her most about the whole ordeal, she said, was that Komen forced her to spend money and time on legal fees and proceedings instead of raising funds for cancer.

Blum told HuffPost that legal fees comprise a "very small part" of Komen's budget, but according to Komen's financial statements, such costs add up to almost a million dollars a year in donor funds.

Susan G. Komen Foundation Elbows Out Charities Over Use Of The Word 'Cure'

Read more at Lawsuits for the Cure and Poor Pink Goliath

Needless to say this is one consumer that will no longer be supporting Susan G. Komen for the Cure if your product sports Komen's pink ribbon, I will not purchase it. There are many worthy charities that truly do strive to fight cancer they will be the ones that get my donations.

For those of you who wish to learn more about Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Pink Ribbons, Inc. is a feature documentary that shows how the devastating reality of breast cancer, which marketing experts have labeled a "dream cause," has been hijacked by a shiny, pink story of success.

I just heard that Komen has reversed it's decision not to fund Planned Parenthood. In my opinion that was the least of their transgressions and I still intend to boycott Komen. I suggest that donations be given directly to Planned Parenthood and earmarked for cancer screening instead of having them routed thru Komen.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ January

2012-01-31T01:00:00.000-06:00

Inheritance by Christopher Paolini - read the review here.
The Hour Glass Witch by Paige, Alisha (read on my Kindle from the Kindle Owner's Lending Library) For a free book I can't complain. A light hearted and fun read. After angering her half-sister (Aphrodite) Clio, the Muse of History is sent back in time as punishment by the angry Goddess.
Locked On by Tom Clancy - Realizing his puppet President Ed Kealty in going to lose the election to Jack Ryan Sr., Paul Laska attempts to use a scandal centered around John Clark to bring him down. In order to protect President Elect Jack Ryan Sr and The Campus John Clark sets out on his own to discover who is behind the plot. Captured and tortured Clark is rescued by the Russians who need him to resume command of Rainbow 6 and foil a terrorist plot to nuke Moscow. In exchange they will expose Laska's plot to destroy Ryan by fabricating stuff against Clark. In the meantime Jack Ryan Jr and Dominic must stop a nuclear bomb from going off in Pakistan. But Jack Jr has his own potential bomb waiting in the wings as his new girlfriend is spying on him for the other side.
Side Jobs by Jim Butcher - A collection of short stories relating to the Dresden Files. Harry Dresden is a very loveable wizard with a biting wit and a White Court Vampire for a brother.
Furies of Calderon by Jim Butcher - GREAT BOOK!!!! It all starts with Tavi (an Aleran) neglecting to bring the sheep in before dark because he ran an errand for a pretty young girl. Tavi plans to sneak out early to go after the sheep, but his Uncle (Bernard) intercepts him and goes with him. They are attacked by a Herdbane (big nasty bird), Tavi's uncle manages to kill it with his fury but not before he is grievously injured. Before losing consciousness Bernard instructs Brutus (one of his furies) to take them home. Realizing the Herdbane's mate and the Marat of the Herdbane Clan (the Marat are savage cannibals who belong to clans named after the animals they partner with) with it, will catch up with them before they can reach safety Tavi draws them away from his Uncle. Caught in a killer storm Tavi hears Amara's call for help and goes to her rescue. Amara is fleeing from Fidelias and his henchmen (Aldrick and Odiana) who are traitors to the First Lord of Alera. Amara was also sent to Calderon to foil Fidelias' plot to destroy the First Lord, whatever it may be. Tavi, Amara and Fade (Isana's slave) set out to warn Garrison of a Marat invasion. Captured by Kord ( a really stupid Aleran bully), they are rescued by Bernard and Isana (Tavi's Aunt), who hold Kord and Fidelias off with Amara's help long enough for Tavi and Fade to flee. Tavi and Fade are captured by Doroga (Headman of the Gargant Clan) who gives him a chance to tell the Marat that the Alerans are not an enemy. By saving Doroga's daughter during the trial he also wins his help in saving his family (The Gargant Clan and The Horse Clan will fight against The Herdbane Clan and The Wolf Clan) . Fidelias' plot is foiled but the dagger proving that the Lord of Aquitaine is behind the plots remains in his hands. First Lord Gaius rewards those who fought off the Marat invasion. Tavi is sent to the Academy under Gaius' patronage. Questions remain who are Tavi's parents? (I suspect Isana is his Mother not his Aunt and that his Father was the Princeps) Who is Fade? (Tavi seems to think he might be Araris Valerian, although Isana insist Araris Valerian died 15 years ago whoever he is Fade's mission seems to be to protect Tavi, and he knows the identity of Tavi's Father.). Looking forward to Book 2 where I hope some of my questions are answered.
Academ's Fury by Jim Butcher - Confirmation that Isana is his Mother although that bit of information hasn't been revealed to Tavi yet, also the conversation between Miles and Gaius at the end of the book strengthens my suspicions that the Princeps is Tavi's Father. Fade's identity as Araris Valerian is revealed to a select few. This book begins two years after Book One and Tavi and Fade have been brought to the capital where Tavi is attending the Academy. If you remember that really nasty thing that bit Kitai (Doroga's daughter) in Book One well it is back. The Vord have awakened and three Vord Queens have escaped the Wax Valley to build nest. Doroga and two thousand of his people destroyed one nest but only two hundred of his warriors survived. Doroga goes to Count Bernard for help destroying the remaining nest in the Valley but warns him that one of the Vord Queens was tracking Tavi and is headed for the capital. Isana is sent to the capital to secure help in destroying the Vord. Kitai has also been sent to the capital of Alera in order to understand Tavi's people better. Gaius falls unconscious due to exhaustion, in order to protect the Realm Killian (Head of the Cursors), Miles ( Fade's Brother and Gaius' personal bodyguard) and Tavi come up with a plan for Tavi's friend Antillar Maximus to double as the First Lord. Unable to reach the First Lord Isana attends a party at Lord Kalare's in order to seek a way to Gaius. By the time Tavi learns of his "Aunt's" presence in the city Kalare has already sent assassins to kill Isana. Fidelias manages to save her life and talks her into meeting with Lady Aquitaine. In exchange for Isana's support Lady Aquitaine agrees to save Bernard and Tavi from the Vord. The Canim are plotting with Lord Kalare and the Vord to assassinate Gaius. Tavi and Kitai manage to carry a warning to the Citadel minutes before the Canim and Vord attack. Killian is mortally wounded, Mile's is severely injured and it looks as if they will be overcome by the Vord and the Canim when Fade charges into battle. He manages to keep the Canim and Vord at bay until the Knights can arrive. But one Canim slips past Fade to kill the First Lord but Tavi using the First Lord's sword manages to kill it before it can harm Gaius. Gaius awakens and takes charge, and determines to live long enough to buy time in hope's that Tavi will one day be able to use furies and prevent a war of succession.
Cursor's Fury by Jim Butcher - Gaius Sextus sends Tavi to work with Magnus (the Historian who believes Alerans once didn't have furies) in order to keep him out of the upcoming trouble with Kalare. Magnus (who is also a cursor), Max and Tavi (Tribune Scipio) are sent to join the First Aleran Legion, consisting of volunteers from every city (new idea). Tavi was sent under an assumed name as an officer. When they get there Max discovers his Step-Mother and half-brother are there. His Step-Mother tries to kill him but Max manages to survive and Captain Cyril stands up to Lady Antillus (Kalare's sister) to protect Max. Tavi determines to find a way to punish her for her treatment of Max and steals Lady Antillus' purse. Inside the purse he finds a bloodstone (which will later save his life). Cassius (Max's half-brother) confronts Tavi about the theft in order to protect him from Lady Antillus and Tavi beats him to a pulp before realizing that he wasn't trying to kill him.The Canim Ritualists send a lightening bolt to destroy the command tent putting all the officers out of commission except for Tavi and the First Spear Valiar Marcus ( Fidelias), which leaves Tavi in command. Meanwhile Fade has been sent to Ceres to protect Isana. Rook attacks Isana and Fade is mortally wounded saving her life. Amara captures Rook and learns that Rook is only working for Kalare because he holds her daughter hostage. Amara promises to help save Rook's daughter and Amara, Rook, Lady Aquitaine, Bernard, Aldrick and Odiana set out to rescue Kalare's hostages. Isana risk her life to save Fade's and discovers his love for her as well as hers for him. Tavi manages to prevent the Canim from invading Alera and saves Marcus' life. Marcus (Fidelias) realizes WHO Tavi is and when Gaius Sextus approaches him Marcus (Fidelias) tells him that even without furies Tavi should be acknowledged as Gaius Sextus' heir. and agrees to work for Princeps Octavian (Tavi still doesn't know who he is). To Tavi's surprise he is able to use a fury to turn his light off and on and it totally blown away when Kitai can do the same.
Captain's Fury by Jim Butcher - Fade (Araris) convinces Isana to tell Tavi who his Father was. Gaius has asked Tavi to keep Senator Arnos in check for three months while he deals with Kalare. Unfortunately things quickly get out of hand. Arnos has Tavi arrested for TREASON. Tavi escapes with help from Araris, Isana, Kitai, and Ehren and heads to the capital in order to break Varg (Canim Leader) out of the Grey Tower. He then brings Varg back to the front in time to save the Aleran troops from annihilation by the Canim who are lead by Varg's son. And in order to broker a peace with the Canim Tavi announces his identity as the Princeps and challenges Senator Arnos to a dual. Meanwhile Gaius had Amara and Bernard help him get close enough to Kalare's land for him to cause a volcano to erupt wiping Kalare out. After speaking with his Grandfather Tavi sets out to help the Canim return to their homeland and fight the Vord.
Enemy in Blue, Debut Novel of Derek Blass - In the interest of full disclosure I was asked to do a review by Derek Blass and was gifted with an ebook on my Kindle Fire. Fast paced thriller with lots of action, see my review here.

Enemy in Blue, Debut Novel of Derek Blass

2012-01-30T18:43:00.000-06:00

On a scale of 1 to 10 I give it a 5.

I would have liked to have seen more character development. From the brief character sketches provided there seemed to be several characters (perhaps too many characters was part of the problem) that I would have liked. Unfortunately the plot moved at such a breakneck pace I never felt as if I had gotten to know any of the main characters or the motivations for their behavior.

The plot was so full of holes you could drive a semi through it. While I don't doubt that a police officer would shoot an unarmed man laying on a couch (after all they have no problem slaughtering family pets), I sincerely doubt he would do so in front of a cameraman and a disapproving cop. Police brutality occurs in the dark and around those who either tacitly approve of the misbehavior or who will not question it. The fact the officer was not relieved of duty and asked to hand in his gun after the shooting until an internal investigation could be completed (which is standard operating procedure) underscores the unreality of the situation. Max's (the cameraman) behavior is also unrealistic. Realizing that Shaver will come after him for the tape he physically hands it over to someone else. Now Max was clever enough to email the file to himself so why wouldn't he email it to Sandra. One also has to question why Max didn't email the file to as many news agencies as possible and upload it to You Tube. After all once the file was out in the public domain it would have been impossible for Shaver to suppress it and killing Max would have been even more stupid then it was.

Blass shows promise as a writer. Hopefully on the next book he will take the time to develop his characters more fully so the reader feels like he/she knows them and will do more research so the plot will be more plausible. The ending leads me to believe that Cruz with Sandra by his side will be investigating "the list" implicating Chief Edwin Colgate. Perhaps some of the other characters from this book will also be playing a role. I really hope I get the chance to know them better.

This is one of the first books I read on my Kindle Fire so that may have played into the low marks I gave the book. I am still not completely comfortable reading e-books and prefer a hard copy. In the interest of full disclosure Derek Blass provided me with a free copy of the book for review.

Check Out The Drifting Bookworm

2012-01-29T21:03:00.002-06:00

100 Follower Giveaway.

Would the Religious Right Elect the Founding Fathers?

2012-01-26T06:01:00.000-06:00

Five founders who were skeptical of organized Christianity and couldn't be elected today read more here.

Jackson County, MS Aniamal Shelter

2012-01-20T08:28:00.001-06:00

First I want to thank John McKay for hosting the meeting and Troy Ross and Barry Cumbest for taking the time to attend.

I am troubled that the animal shelter plans to implement a fee for owner surrenders. While in theory since according to the shelter 50% of the animals in their care are owner surrenders this sounds like a sound plan for increasing revenue, I am afraid the unintended consequence may be more abandoned pets.

I was heartened to see the number of people raise their hands in support of a spay and neuter program that would provide low cost spaying and neutering to those who do rescue, TNR (trap neuter release) and senior citizens even if it meant a tax increase. It was also suggested that a licensing fee for breeders be implemented and that the fee could be dedicated to spay and neuter programs so a tax increase would not be necessary. The Hard Rock is also willing to do fundraisers for the animal shelter. There was also a great deal of support for a Humane Society like the Humane Society of South Mississippi located in Gulfport instead of the county run animal shelter.

Current criticism of the animal shelter included the lack of oversight. Far to many people stated that animals were not checked for microchips, that owners were not allowed to view the animals kept in back and that pets were mistakenly euthanized without their owners having a chance to rescue them. It was also brought up that the animals are kept in deplorable condition and are not properly groomed.

There was a demand that the shelter allow people to foster animals, and that they work with rescue groups so the number of animals euthanized could be lowered. Many people mentioned working with transport groups who rescue animals from the South to take them to the North East where there is a large demand for adoptable pets. Supervisor McKay suggested starting a Friends of the Jackson County Animal Shelter but learned that there was already a friends group.

It was also suggested that a Trust Fund dedicated to the animals and their welfare be established so people could donate directly to the animal shelter and that Supervisors commit to not using donations to offset money budgeted for the shelter.

Stop SOPA

2012-01-18T05:25:00.005-06:00

Here is a bill in Congress that will affect your rights on the web and will censor all web sites, blogs, etc. In a nutshell :

SOPA explicitly states that companies will be liable for everything their users post. Sites like Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Reddit, Wikipedia, or any sites that allow user generated content CANNOT exist under these laws. Immediately after this bill is passed, you will see the media mafia (MPIAA, RIAA, etc) replacing websites like Wikipedia with commercialized encyclopedia software. Mainstream media outlets will not cover this bill because they are the ones lobbying for it.

If you want to know more - Google created a doc to read and inform - SOPA for Dummies.

WRITE YOUR CONGRESSMAN AND STOP THIS BILL FROM PASSING!
To help you do this stop by Fight the Wall or American Censorship and find out how to connect with your Representative!
Hat Tip Cats of Wildcat Woods.

Tell Congress to Stop the Bill NOW.

Spinach Salmon Bundles

2012-01-13T10:56:00.002-06:00

2 tubes (Large) Crescent Rolls
4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
1/4 teaspoon pepper
8 oz. Pub Cheese (cheddar jalapeno)
chopped spinach (canned, drain well)

Unroll crescent dough and separate into four rectangles; seal perforations. Spread with cheese, place salmon fillet in the center of each rectangle; sprinkle with pepper, top with spinach. Fold dough over fillet and pinch edges to seal. Place on an ungreased baking sheet and bake @ 400 for 20-25 minutes.

If you kill your spouse in Mississippi just ask Barbour for a pardon

2012-01-11T07:43:00.000-06:00

Unlike most governors and presidents who have used their pardons to correct miscarriages of justice Governor Barbour has used his power to pardon convicted KILLERS.

Mississippi governors’ clemency powers are absolute, granted by the state Constitution, and can’t be appealed. Governors in most other states -- and the president -- have similar powers. But most grant pardons after people have served their time or when there are serious questions over whether justice was served in a conviction, not to release those convicted of violent crimes, a national pardons expert said.

Read more here: http://www.sunherald.com/2012/01/10/3678925_p2/barbour-pardons-more-than-200.html#storylink=cpy

Governor Barbour seems particularly fond of pardoning men who killed their spouses.

Attention Book Lovers

2012-01-08T15:44:00.001-06:00

I have been asked to review Enemy in Blue, Debut Novel of Derek Blass. Will post the review soon, so be looking for it. I plan to start reading the book Tuesday, if life doesn't interfere.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ December

2011-12-31T01:00:00.000-06:00

The House of Thunder by Dean Koontz - Susan Thorton awakens in a hospital in a small town in Oregon with gaping holes in her memory. She finds it impossible to remember anything about her job no matter how hard she tries. The one bright spot in her ordeal is Dr. McGee and the romance that blossoms between them. When she starts hallucinating about the death of her fiancee when she was 19 at the hands of four fraternity guys in a cave she fears she is going mad. Slowly she realizes there is a conspiracy amongst the staff of the hospital to drive her crazy and flees only to discover that the whole town is part of the elaborate masquerade. Giving up on escaping Susan sinks into despair only to have McGee swoop into rescue her, but can she trust him? and even if he is on the up and up can the dashing Dr. McGee really get her out of Russia.
Sleep No More by Greg Iles - Decades ago Waters was deeply in love with Mallory, their relationship ended because of her jealousy and mental instability. Shortly after Waters married Lily, Mallory was killed in New Orleans. But now she is back and determined to be with the man she loves no matter who gets in the way. After being accused of murdering Eve (Mallory) Waters goes to Penn Cage for help, but even Penn doesn't believe his wild tale of possession. Only Lily believes him, determined to save her family from Mallory, Lily sleeps with Cole (Mallory) and once Mallory possess her fights to remain in control long enough to take both herself and Mallory to their graves.
Jack: Secret Circles by F. Paul Wilson - A young boy (Cody) disappears. Jack discovers a deceased friends Father is beating his wife and young daughter, when he calls the cops anonymously and they do nothing he determines to put a stop to the abuse in his own way. Jack and Weezy attempt to steal back their pyramid from The Lodge while hiding from Drexler and Eggers they find a trap door in the basement that leads to a secret city. Fearing they will be locked in they are about to leave when they hear Cody's cries for help. They find where he is being kept by a "creature" and Jack is attempting to carry him to safety when "the creature" attacks and takes Cody from Jack. After tasting Jack's blood the creature leaves him alone but the lake is busting through the basement wall and Jack barely manages to escape the flood waters. "The creature" pushes an unconscious Cody to safety before it is swept away. When Drexler and Eggers discover the children in the basement of The Lodge, Drexler orders Eggers to carry Cody outside where Walt revives him.
Aftershock & Others by F. Paul Wilson - A collection of short stories including Aryans and Absinthe in which a young Ernest Drexler finds enjoyment in the inflation that brought Weimar Germany to it's knees.
Jack: Secret Histories by F. Paul Wilson - Jack, Weezy & Eddie find a mound in the Barrens inside it they discover a body and a box that only Jack can open, inside the box is a pyramid. Then Lodge members start dying and Jack believes he knows who is responsible for the deaths. Thinking on his feet Jack comes up with a plan to get his friend the help he needs as well as revealing the killer.
The Barrens and Others by F. Paul Wilson - collection of very enjoyable short stories, one involving Repairman Jack and some about the Secret History that makes up Jack's world.

Beau Rivage Buffet a Waste of Money

2011-12-30T10:05:00.000-06:00

We went to the Beua Rivage Buffet Christmas Eve, at $30 a head it was a huge waste of money. The food was mediocre at best, think school cafeteria food and the service was abysmal. The waitress didn't bring me a straw for my drink and we were half way through the meal before she showed back up and I was able to get a straw. We didn't have enough silverware, there were only two place settings and four people sitting at the table, those of us with a place setting wound up sharing our salad forks with those who did not have silverware. When the waitress finally showed up and we brought it to her attention she dumped around 40 forks and spoons on our table.

If you were planning to go there New Year's Eve I would skip it, they will probably use the holiday as an excuse to jack the price up like they did Christmas Eve.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T08:28:00.002-06:00

Anti-Choice Kristen Walker Bashes Celebraties for Supporting Cancer Screening for Women and Other Women's Health Issues

2011-12-18T14:00:00.000-06:00

Anti-Choice Kristen Walker makes the case that those backing the Personhood Amendment are very much against the use of Contraceptives in her two articles Five Pro-Abortion Male Celebrities Pro-Lifers Should Boycott and Five Pro-Abortion Women Celebrities Pro-Lifers Should Boycott.

For your information Ms Walker Planned Parenthood provides a wide range of safe, reliable health care — more than 90 percent is preventive primary care, which helps prevent unintended pregnancies through contraception, reduces the spread of sexually transmitted infections through testing and treatment, and screens for cervical and other cancers.They deliver comprehensive and medically accurate information that empowers women, men, teens, and families to make informed choices and lead healthy lives.

Of course Ms Walker and her ilk do not want women to have medically accurate information that contradicts their anti-choice agenda, an agenda that would deny women the right to use contraceptives and make medical decisions for themselves.

What Does Selling Merchandise Have to Do With Christmas?

2011-12-18T10:03:00.001-06:00

The Liberty Counsel has a Naughty & Nice List taking to task stores that don't use the word Christmas in their advertisements. Apparently the crass commercialization of Christmas if perfectly fine with these Christians as long as you use the word Christmas. Silly me I thought Christmas was about celebrating the birth of Christ NOT buying stuff (at stores that use the word Christmas in their advertisements of course), setting the perfect Christmas Table and Decorating for Christmas.

And WTF (From the Liberty Counsel site)

Consumer Report: “Cracker Barrel restaurants and stores bring back memories of old Christmases-gone-by with the remembrance that Christmas is the focal point of the Season, not other modern-day holiday inventions.”

Most of these so called "modern-day" holiday inventions have been around longer then the relatively modern Christmas.

Hanukkah -Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days and nights. It starts on the 25th of the Jewish month of Kislev, which coincides with late November-late December on the secular calendar, this year it is December 8-16. Hannukkah was first celebrated over 2000 years ago in Judea, now known as Israel.

Winter Solstice - Knows as Saturnalia in Pagan Rome and celebrated BEFORE Christmas was. In fact since no one knew the date of Jesus' birth The Roman Catholic Church picked the Winter Solstice (Saturnalia) in order to replace the pagan festival with a Christian holy day (holiday). The psychology was that is easier to take away one religious festival (Saturnalia) from the population, when you can replace it with another (Christmas). The Winter Solstice (Saturnalia) is still celebrated today.

Christmas - 4^th century CE, Christianity imported the Saturnalia festival hoping to take the pagan masses in with it. Christian leaders succeeded in converting to Christianity large numbers of pagans by promising them that they could continue to celebrate the Saturnalia as Christians. Christians had little success, however, refining the practices of Saturnalia. As Stephen Nissenbaum, professor history at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, writes, “In return for ensuring massive observance of the anniversary of the Savior’s birth by assigning it to this resonant date, the Church for its part tacitly agreed to allow the holiday to be celebrated more or less the way it had always been.” The earliest Christmas holidays were celebrated by drinking, sexual indulgence, singing naked in the streets (a precursor of modern caroling), etc. The Reverend Increase Mather of Boston observed in 1687 that “the early Christians who first observed the Nativity on December 25 did not do so thinking that Christ was born in that Month, but because the Heathens’ Saturnalia was at that time kept in Rome, and they were willing to have those Pagan Holidays metamorphosed into Christian ones.”Because of its known pagan origin, Christmas was banned by the Puritans and its observance was illegal in Massachusetts between 1659 and 1681.

I'll be doing my shopping at the stores on the Liberty Counsel's Naughty List.

Happy Holidays!!!!!!!

News Radio ~ Herman Cain

2011-12-04T17:02:00.001-06:00

One can only wonder at the serious disconnect that allows these religious zealots to defend Herman Cain.

NewsRadio 104.9 shared a link.

WATCH: Herman Cain Announces That He Is Suspending His Presidential Campaign - Fox News Insider

foxnewsinsider.com

Moments ago, Herman Cain announced that he is suspending his 2012 presidential amid allegations of infidelity and sexual harassment. Stay tuned for the video of this announcement – it will be posted shortly. Take a look back at the highs and lows of the Cain campaign in this timeline. May 21, 2011: ...

Share · Yesterday at 12:50pm ·

Bonnie O'Dea Saw this coming, sadly. If there is a sure thing, they will always find something to fling! Time will tell the legitimacy of the allegations. Then it will be too late perhaps..but the for sure thing is, BHO has to go.

Yesterday at 12:56pm

Kathy Flowers And we are again at the mercy of the media to decide our candidate. What a shame! He was, if nothing else, NOT a Beltway Boy...

Lydia Snell You said it all Bonnie. I'm sad also -- the media, is it correct?

Yesterday at 1:25pm

Dan Estes Sad news, the best of the bunch whether or not the allegations were true.

Doug Sasser Now an onslaught of racial accusations will be thrown at all the Republican candidates. The dark horse in the race had deflected those slurs until now.

Yesterday at 1:48pm · 1
James Dobbs Media wins again!

So it's OK to sexually harass women, cheat on your wife (and I am pretty sure the wife considers it cheating if you give money to another women even if as Cain says they are "just friends") as long as you are a Republican and the Teabaggers think you have a chance of winning the Presidential Election. It's really sad if Cain is the best the Republican party has to offer. Doug Sasser needs to get a clue most people didn't vote for President Obama because he was African American, they voted for him because they thought he was the best man for the job. If the Republicans would concentrate on finding the best man/woman for the job irregardless of their race/gender/sexual orientation they might have something. Instead they insist on offering one dimensional candidates without any substance, and then blame the media when they lose.

Alasandra's Reading List ~November

2011-11-30T01:00:00.000-06:00

The Footprints of God by Greg Iles - Computer Genius Peter Godin is rich and powerful. When he finds out he is dying from a brain tumor he is willing to do anything to ensure the Trinity Project succeeds and his brain is the one stored in the super computer.When Fielding has serious ethical concerns about the project Godin orders him killed and moves the Trinity Project to a secret location. David Tennant shared Fielding's ethical concerns and realizing his friend was murdered is determined to learn the truth and reveal it to the President of the United States. But once the Trinity Project comes online Tennant must use everything he has learned to talk Trinity into not destroying the world as we know it.
Bonnie by Iris Johansen - Eve finds Bonnie's grave and discovers her death was a terrible accident. Gallo and Catherine are drawn closer together and Joe takes Ben under his wing.
The Sleeper Awakes by H. G. Wells - I had trouble getting into this book. Graham falls asleep in Victorian England (1890s) after dealing with a bout of insomnia that nearly drove him to suicide. Two hundred years later he awakens to discover that due to two bequest he was left while asleep he is now the richest man in the world and considered it's Master. But those who have been ruling in his name do not wish to give up their power.Ostrog leads a revolt to free the Sleeper, but he too seeks to use the Sleepers "power" to enslave the masses. Graham chooses to fight for the common people and holds true to his democratic ideals.
Trixie & Jinx by Dean Koontz - A delightful children's book. I highly recommend it and love it's message "a friend is more precious than pirate gold".
The Dark at the End by F. Paul Wilson ~ The ONE manipulates Jack, Weezy, Eddie and Glaeken into aiding in The Lady's demise. Jack doesn't realize how much he loved Weezy until she dies in his arms. The ONE was damaged by Jack, but survived due to a good Samaritan.
Jack: Secret Vengeance by F. Paul Wilson - (Teen) When Carson Toliver (captain and quarterback of the football team) attacks Weezy then spreads the rumor she is easy Jack determines to get even. Jack breaks into Toliver's locker and leaves gifts behind a plastic spider, rubber snake marbles a dead possum for the grand finale, but someone else is leaving gifts a pink sock, a girls ring, a pink headband in Toliver's locker and Toliver becomes unhinged. When he commits suicide the body of a girl everyone believed was a runaway is discovered and Toliver's role in her death comes to light. Jack also meets Mr. Foster (Glaeken), Drexler test Jack and Eddie for the taint, surprisingly Eddie has a little taint in him. And Mrs Clevenger (The Lady) reveals that Jack's miracle conception wasn't an accident.
Retribution by Sherrilyn Kenyon - Abigail believes that Jess killed her parents and allows the Apollites to inject her with gallu demon blood and starts to hunt down Dark-Hunters in her quest for vengeance against Jess (William Jessup "Sundown" Brady). In the process she kills Old Bear (one of the 4 guardians) and releases the plagues he was responsible for guarding. Coyote and Snake (the 2 dark guardians) are determined to release all the plagues and destroy the world but first Coyote is determined to kill Jess (Buffalo) and Abigail (Butterfly) before they can unite and gain control. Bonus: Soteria gives birth to Ash's son with Artemis' help.
Immortalis by R. A. Salvatore - Elbryan keeps Pony alive so she can save their son from the Demon Dactyl. Pony joins Prince Midalis to defeat Aydrian but demands that her son be pardoned and allowed to return to Dundalis with her. Freed of the Demon Dactyl Aydrian attempts to repair the damage he has caused and finds support from all the rangers who have passed on, allowing him to survive the restoration of Andur'Blough Inninness.

Gina Miller is an Idiot

2011-11-29T13:22:00.001-06:00

First there is this drivel Mississippi Personhood Vote was Sign of Our Dark Times. Personally I think that the vote was a sign that Mississippians are better educated and smarter then the rest of the nation gives us credit for. Apparently the idiots like Miller are thankfully in the minority, they just make so much noise everyone assumes that the idiots like Miller are the norm.

She starts the post off singing Herman Cain's praises. Honestly what the Right Wing Wingnuts see in the guy is beyond me. They tout his 9-9-9 plan like it's ~~THE BIBLE~~, the inherent word of god. I wonder if they ever stopped to think that if you flip it over it's the 6-6-6 plan. Ah the conspiracy Herman Cain is really the Anti-Christ who is pulling the wool over these good ~~sheeples~~ Christians' eyes. Plenty of warning signs too the sexual harassment charges and the allegations of an affair. According to Cain supporters the women were either A.) lying or B.) It was their fault cause you know when you are a woman and you work outside the home and your job puts you in a position where you are alone with a man well the poor guy just can't help acting on his urges.

Then she gets around to the ballot initiatives. Applauds that the eminent domain and immigration initiatives passed but laments the failure of the personhood amendment. She maintains that human life begins at conception ( no scientific proof but who needs science when you have The Bible to quote from). According to Miller, this is a person

She goes on to state that the initiative would cost no money to implement, which is a bit misleading as the repercussions if the initiative had passed could have proven extremely costly to the taxpayers of Mississippi.

She then starts ranting about pro-choice people raising their legitimate concerns about the initiative, including their concerns about contraceptives being outlawed. First she claims the pro-choice people are lying and then in a rambling manner goes on to say that well yes some contraceptives would be outlawed, but hey why would anyone have a problem with that.

And then Miller starts ranting about SIN and quoting Bible Scriptures. Ironic how these people claim they aren't trying to force their religious beliefs on anyone but use those beliefs to justify this outrageous personhood initiative. I would like to believe that we have seen the end of it but considering Phil Bryant (co-chair of the Personhood Amendment) was elected Governor I am afraid that while we won the battle the War on Women is still raging in Mississippi.

If these so called Christians were serious about ending abortion they would

Teach Comprehensive Sex Education in our public schools so young men and women will know how to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STDs.
Require insurance companies to cover contraceptives the same way they cover other prescription medications.
Require pharmacies to fill prescriptions for contraceptives including the morning after pill in a timely manner.
Provide the morning after pill to any woman who is a victim of rape or incest free of charge.
Have social programs in place to help single Mothers with housing, food and daycare.

Thin Skinned Conservatives

2011-11-28T17:38:00.001-06:00

Apparently the thin skinned conservatives on Talk Radio 104. 9 didn't like my pointing out that it isn't very Christian to make fun of people as I have again been banned from their site.

NewsRadio 104.9
Sylvester Is Stepping Down....if he hadn't caused so much damage to the country I'd kind of like to see him stay....he's so much fun to make fun of.

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Barney Frank to Retire

www.nationaljournal.com

Longtime Democratic Rep. Barney Frank of Massachusetts will announce on Monday that he will not seek a 17th term in Congress next year, according to a statement from his office.

Share · 8 hours ago ·

Those business who choose to advertise on this radio station will not be getting my business this holiday season.

Thanksgiving @ Home

2011-11-25T13:39:00.001-06:00

Zucchini Cheese Bread

Too much food.

Thanksgiving Menu

Turkey & Dressing

Ham

Apple Crunch Salad

Snap Beans

Yam Bake

Zucchini Bread

Dinner Rolls

Holiday Pie

Pumpkin Cake

Pumpkin Cookies

Macadamia Nut Cookies

Ham, Yam Bake and Cookies provided by my parents. Thanks for bringing them Mom & Dad.

Feminism: Not a Naughty Word: Paternalistic Pharmacists (and Politics)

2011-11-14T05:07:00.000-06:00

Feminism: Not a Naughty Word: Paternalistic Pharmacists (and Politics)

Love This Post

2011-11-14T04:58:00.001-06:00

Sour Grapes: Wildmon Chastises Mississippi Voters @ Deep-Fried Freethinkers.

Why the Wingnuts are so Nutty

2011-11-13T17:58:00.001-06:00

Did you realize Christianity is under attack? Nope, neither did I but apparently the wingnuts view everything as a potential persecution/attack on Christianity and Christians.

Writing Xmas instead of Christmas uneducated Christians insist is an attack on Christianity never mind that the X stands for Christ (Greek Χριστιανός).

Not being allowed to attack homosexuals and being forced to refrain from hate speech is of course an attack on their freedom of speech by those awful politically correct liberals. Of course if you say anything that doesn't jive with their world view they attack you. Facts in the mind of the true believers are irrelevant.

But I finally figured out why one of the largest and most powerful groups in the country consistently insist that they are under attack. It has to do with that pesky Bible verse "Luke 6:31 New International Version (NIV)³¹ Do to others as you would have them do to you." Since they are constantly harassing, judging and persecuting others, they can't believe that others are not doing that to them. Sorry wingnuts the rest of us have better things to do with our time.

Kip Gregory is a Jerk

2011-11-10T08:09:00.001-06:00

Never mind that Kip Gregory was espousing the Drudge Report about Obama taxing Xmas Trees (FALSE by the way), now he is on a crusade to prevent people from using Xmas instead of Christmas.

NewsRadio 104.9 FYI: If you can't properly spell Christmas and must use an X....your post will be deleted. Period. Learn it and live by it please.about an hour ago ·

When I attempted to explain the abbreviation to him he banned me from the site.

Xmas" is a common abbreviation of the word "Christmas". It is sometimes pronounced /ˈɛksməs/, but it, and variants such as "Xtemass", originated as handwriting abbreviations for the typical pronunciation /ˈkrɪsməs/. The "-mas" part is from the Latin-derived Old English word for "Mass",^[1] while the "X" comes from the Greek letter Chi, which is the first letter of the Greek word Χριστός, translated as "Christ".^[2]

There is a common misconception AMONG THE UNEDUCATED that the word Xmas is a secular attempt to remove the religious tradition from Christmas^[3] by taking the "Christ" out of "Christmas".

Early use of "Xmas" includes Bernard Ward's History of St. Edmund's college, Old Hall (originally published circa 1755).^[9] An earlier version, "X'temmas", dates to 1551.^[9] Around 1100 the term was written as "Xp̄es mæsse" in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle.^[2] "Xmas" is found in a letter from George Woodward in 1753.^[10] Lord Byron used the term in 1811,^[11] as did Samuel Coleridge (1801)^[5] and Lewis Carroll (1864).^[11] In the United States, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. used the term in a letter dated 1923.^[11] Since at least the late 19th century, "Xmas" has been in use in various other English-language nations. Quotations with the word can be found in texts written in Canada,^[12] and the word has been used in Australia,^[7] and in the Caribbean.^[13]

The word "Christ" and its compounds, including "Christmas", have been abbreviated in English for at least the past 1,000 years, long before the modern "Xmas" was commonly used. "Christ" was often written as "XP" or "Xt"; there are references in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle as far back as AD 1021. This X and P arose as the uppercase forms of the Greek letters χ and ρ used in ancient abbreviations for Χριστος (Greek for "Christ"),^[2] and are still widely seen in many Eastern Orthodox icons depicting Jesus Christ. The labarum, an amalgamation of the two Greek letters rendered as ☧, is a symbol often used to represent Christ in Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christian Churches.^[18]

^{Gotta keep those Clear Channel listeners ignorant if they realized the X=Christ and wasn't some conspiracy to remove Christ from Christmas they might wonder what other lies Gregory is telling them.}

^{UPDATE: I have been unbanned from the site and can again like post and even post to the site.}

Vote NO on 26

2011-11-05T09:04:00.004-05:00

Those annoying and misinformed Yes on 26 people have been texting my unlisted phone # their contact info is below, for anyone who might want to call and explain that a fertilized egg is NOT a baby and certainly isn't a person.

Phone # 601-376-9428

email YESon26@ettsurvey.com

Dona Nobis Pacem

2011-11-04T01:00:00.000-05:00

Don't Let Out of State Special Interest Use Mississippi as A Battle Ground

2011-10-31T20:29:00.002-05:00

Kate Vrazel’s letter is full of misleadingpropaganda.

THE TRUTH:

According to The CDC Abortion is one of the safestsurgical procedures for women in the United States. Less than 0.5% of womenobtaining abortions experience a complication, and the risk of death associatedwith abortion is about one-tenth that associated with childbirth.

The National Cancer Institute has concludedthat having an abortion or miscarriage does not increase a woman’s subsequentrisk of developing breast cancer.

The NewEngland Journal of Medicine published a report showing that abortions did notlead to an increase in mental health problems although childbirth did. http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa0905882

Accordingto the GuttmacherInstitute's latest fact sheet on abortion, 1% of all abortions occur because ofrape/incest; 6% of abortions occur because of potential health problemsregarding either the mother or child. Currently women who are victims ofrape/incest also have the option of taking the Morning After Pill. Thankfullythe percentage of women seeking an abortion due to rape/incest/medical necessityis small but that does not give us the right to deny these women abortions.

Vrazel also failed to note that the Mississippichapter of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, theAmerican Society of Reproductive Medicine, the Boardof Trustees of the Mississippi Medical Association the MississippiNurses Association House of Delegates all oppose Initiative 26. Additionally Roman Catholic bishops in several states, includingMississippi, have said they could not support this particular legislation andthe Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray III of the Episcopal Diocese ofMississippi has come out against it.

Supporters of 26 areattempting to use religious dogma, propaganda and emotion to sway voters,please show those who wish to use Mississippi as a battle ground that we are toosmart for their chicanery, VOTE NO on 26.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ October

2011-10-28T13:08:00.000-05:00

Transcendence by R. A. Salvatore - Brynn and Juraviel set out for To-gai, when they fall into the clutches of the Doc'alfer. The Doc'alfer plant to give Brynn to the bog but a quick talking Juraviel manages to save her life. After being held captive for many days they are granted an audience with King Eltiraaz. He agrees to let them continue their journey and ask Cazzira to accompany them. Cazzira leads them to the Path of Starless Night where they stumble upon Agradeleous' lair. Brynn escapes and believing her companions dead sets out for To-gai. Brynn joins the To-gai resistance where she meets Pagonel (Jhesta Tu Monk). When the To-gai are overrun by the Behrenese Pagonel saves Brynn's life and takes her to the Walk of Clouds to recuperate. The Jhesta Tu's sworn enemies the Chezhou-Lei follow them there and attack. At the last moment Juraviel and Cazzira arrive with Agradeleous saving the day. With Agradeleous' help Brynn is able to reorganize the resistance against the Behrenese. Pagonel discovers that the Chezru Chieftain has been using a soul stone (strictly forbidden by his religion) and exposes him. The Chezru Chieftain is overthrown by the other Yatols and Brynn is able to make peace with the new Yatol leader.
Neighbors by Jan T. Gross
Tailchaser's Song by Tad Williams -A very brave cat named Tailchaser sets out to find his girlfriend Hushpad after she disappears. He is followed by a kitten name Pouncequick and together they befriend an old tattered cat named Eatbugs. Attacked by strange creatures they flee and are separated from Eatbugs. Tailchaser and Pouncequick meet up with the First-walkers who befriend them and tell them how to find Firsthome. On their way to Firsthome a very sick Pouncequick and an exhausted Tailchaser are rescued by Prince Fencewalker, and taken to Firsthome, where they meet Roofshadow ( a girl who has lost her family). Roofshadow, Pouncequick and Tailchaser set off to find out what is wrong and stumble upon Hearteaters lair. Eatbugs arrives and attempts to warn them of danger but they are Pouncequick, Eatbugs and Tailchaser are taken prisoner and Roofshadow is seriously injured. Eventually Tailchaser manages to summon Firefoot and all is put right, for his help Firefoot helps Tailchaser discover his hearts desire.
Crown of Thorns by Stephane Groueff
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Now You See Her by James Patterson - As a college student on spring break in Key West Nina makes a serious mistake after catching her boyfriend and her best friend together. With both her parents dead she is easy prey for the good looking deputy who offers to "help" her out. Soon they are married and her life seems idyllic until her husband (Peter) and his partner are shot in a convince store hold up. Realizing Peter set the shooting up Nina flees for her life only to be abducted by the Jump Killer. Quick thinking on her part allows her to escape and she flees to New York where she gives birth to her daughter and starts a new life. Now an African American man is fixing to be executed as the Jump Killer, but Nina (the only victim of the Jump Killer to escape alive) knows he isn't the killer. Returning to Key West in order to exonerate an innocent man her life is once again in danger. Both Peter and the Jump Killer want her dead, will she be able to survive them a second time?

Alasandra's Seafood Sin

2011-10-23T13:39:00.000-05:00

1 stick butter
1 package crabmeat
1 package lobster
1 pound shrimp (for gumbo)
1 pound crawfish
2 cans (8 oz) mushrooms steams and pieces, drained
1 can (12 oz) nacho cheese sauce (may substitute Alfredo sauce)
1 jar pimentos, drained
1 package (8 oz) shell noodles
1 tablespoon Creole Seasoning
pepper to taste
1 Tablespoon Parsley
1 Tablespoon Paprika
Bread Crumbs (plain)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese

Cook noodles according to package directions (drain after cooking).

Cook crabmeat, lobster, shrimp and crawfish in butter until done. Add to cooked noodles and stir in mushrooms, cheese sauce, pimentos, Creole Seasoning, pepper, parsley and paprika. Pour into a 12 by 1 inch casserole dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs and top with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake at 400 degrees for 35-40 minutes.

Alasandra's Pumpkin Walnut Cake

2011-10-23T12:04:00.000-05:00

1 package yellow cake mix
1/4 cup olive oil
4 eggs
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 can (15 oz) solid pack pumpkin (100% pumpkin)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine the oil, eggs and cake mix beat well stir in pumpkin, condensed milk, vanilla and cinnamon until blended thoroughly. Pour in to a 13 in x 9 in baking pan. Sprinkle with walnuts. Bake at 350 for 45-50 minutes.

Bishop's Statement, He Will Not Support Proposition #26

2011-10-19T17:28:00.002-05:00

Bishop's Statement on Proposition #26

Below is an open letter from Bishop Gray III regarding his opposition to Proposition 26, a proposed amendment to The Constitution of the State of Mississippi, which will appear on the ballot of the November 8, 2011 General Election.

My dear friends,

My deep reservations about abortion and the death penalty grow out of my abiding belief in the sanctity of human life and the arbitrary nature of these actions. I am not, however, a pacifist in regards to war. I do believe that some very serious moral decisions are not simply choices between good and evil, but rather in the case of two evils, choices between the lesser of two evils. Such is the complexity of human moral decision-making in a fallen world.

I appreciate the intentions of those who have supported Proposition 26, what has been called the Personhood Amendment. I share their passion for the sanctity of human life. However, I am gravely concerned about the unintended consequences of this legislation. The moral nightmares of doctors no longer able to give preference to saving the life of the mother in such cases as an ectopic pregnancy and the uncertain impact on in-vitro fertilization are real. Thus, the Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Medical Association has announced that it cannot support this legislation.

The legal nightmares arising from this legislation are also very real. The word “person” is used over 9,400 times in the Mississippi Annotated Code and the implications for mass confusion and decades of legal challenges over every use of the term are staggering.

For their own reasons, Roman Catholic bishops in several states, including Mississippi, have said they could not support this particular legislation.

While I recognize the complexities of such moral decisions and the need for each of us to make our own informed and prayerful choices, you need to know that I share the aforementioned concerns about the unintended consequences of this legislation. Thus, I cannot support Proposition 26 on the November 8th ballot in Mississippi.

Please feel free to share this letter with whomever you wish.

Faithfully,

The Rt. Rev. Duncan M. Gray III

Take a bold stand for Women's Reproductive Health at the polls in November

2011-10-06T10:35:00.001-05:00

WILLIAMS’s letter is riddled with misinformation. Ms.Williams states that miscarriage will not be considered a crime, while failingto mention a 15 yearold girl was already charged in Mississippi with Depraved Heart Murder after miscarrying(December 2006). The Personhood Amendment would make it even more likely that prosecutorswould go after women who have the misfortune to miscarry.

Williams statesthat a woman who needed an abortion due to an ectopic pregnancy would be ableto obtain one, but nowhere in the Mississippi State Constitution does itprovide for the taking of one person’s life in order to save another person’slife. 26 merely defines a fertilized egg as a person; it does not write newlaws for dealing with the new definition.

Amendment 26 wouldn’t outlaw in vitro fertilizationbut the restrictions it would place on medical personnel make it highlyunlikely that the procedure would be performed in Mississippi. 26 could alsoimpact the use of birth control pills that make the lining of the uterus lessreceptive to the implantation of a fertilized egg and IUDs.

Williamsadmits that victims of rape/incest would be forced to continue the pregnancy nomatter the mental torture the woman might endure. She justifies this by sayingthere are millions of couples waiting to adopt, according to the Department of Health and Human Service asof 2009 there were 114,562 children in the United States available for adoption.,975 of them in Mississippi. Why haven'tthese children been adopted by one of the millions of couples Williams claimsis waiting to adopt?

Backers of Personhood USA are trying to paint the issue as an abortiondebate, when it’s really about the reproductive health and freedom of women in Mississippi.Vote NO on 26.

LiveStrong Slide Show

2011-10-02T15:15:00.001-05:00

Kizoa slideshow: LiveStrong 2011 B - Slideshow

Thanks for putting this together Chandra from A Cat's Perspective.

Livestrong

2011-10-01T19:22:00.000-05:00

Whiskers ~ The Last Meow

Today Bloggers are taking part in Livestrong Day. A chance to show your support for those who are currently fighting cancer, celebrate with those who fought cancer and won and to remember those who lost their battle.

Charybdis

Alasandra, The Cats & A Dog

Alasandra's Reading List ~ September

2011-09-29T12:29:00.000-05:00

The Passage by Justin Cronin - very dark book, extremely well written and thought provoking, takes place in the future. After his wife's death Doctor Jonas Lear seeks a way to prolong life. He travels to Bolivia in search of a mysteries "virus" that can cure terminal patients. The army tags along in hopes of using the "virus" as a weapon. Once the "virus" is secured it is taken to a secret army facility and experiments on death row inmates begin, when Dr. Lear insist that six year old Amy (no last name) be brought to the facility and infected with the "virus", Wolgast begins to question the orders he has been given. Then the unthinkable happens the subjects of the experiments escape, FBI Agent Brad Wolgast flees with Amy as the world he knew ends. (Decades later) Peter lives in one of the last human colonies, realizing the lights that keep the Virals at bay are failing Peter and his friends will set out with Amy to uncover the mysteries of her past and hopefully find a way to destroy the Virals. This is the first book in a trilogy and I am eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Mortalis by R. A. Salvatore - The rosy plague leads to great sickness and suffering throughout Corona. When Colleen contracts the plague Pony attempts to heal her with a soul stone but discovers it is no use. Looking for answers she spirit walks to the elves and Lady Dasslerond gives her a recipe to help alleviate the suffering but warns her it will not cure the plague, Colleen dies. De'Unnero (known as Brother Truth) uses the plague to cause trouble between the church and the people and leads a band of renegade monks (Brothers Repentant) throughout the countryside maiming and killing "sinners". Abbot Agronguerre and Prince Midalis make peace with the Alpinadorans lead by the ranger Andacanavar and Bruinhelde. Agronguerre later become Father Abbot of the Abellican Church. Brother Francis chooses to go out amongst the plague victims and minister to them. When Dainsey (Roger's wife) contracts the plague Roger takes her to Pony. Pony sees a vision of Avelyn's hand and makes a desperate journey with Dainsey to Mount Aida where Dainsey taste the blood from Avelyn's palm and is cured. Pony and Dainsey spread the word and pilgrims flock to Mount Aida for the cure. Pony accepts King Danube's offer to make her Baroness of Palmaris (Pony still doesn't know her child lives).
Frankenstein the dead town by Dean Koontz - Deucalion is able to stop Victor once and for all and love flourishes in the most unlikely places. I enjoyed the series immensely and am sorry to see it come to an end.
Claiming the Highlander - Kinley MacGregor - Maggie convinces the women from the MacAllister and MacDouglas clans to go on strike until their clans make peace. Now the men of both clans want her head. To make matters worse the MacAllister's have taken their laird hostage and threaten to kill him if the women don't come out in four days. Determined to save his brother Braden MacAllister agrees to go with Maggie to the MacDouglas Laird and convince him to make peace. But along the way Braden succumbs to Maggie's charms now he not only has to keep them alive but win her heart. (Very humorous and entertaining book)
Ascendance by R. A. Salvatore - Jilseponie marries King Danube and a jealous Constance causes problems from day one. Afraid that Jilseponie will bear a child and usurp her sons position in the royal line she has birth control herbs secretly placed in Jilseponie's food. Aydrian "Nighthawk" the son of Elbryan and Jilseponie teams up with De'Unnero to wrest the crown of Honce the Bear from King Danube. When Constance dies Jilseponie is accused of murdering her, the trial provides Aydrian the chance to wrest the throne from King Danube with Duke Kalas help. Unable to kill her own son Jilseponie is sent into exile by Aydrian.
Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson - Starving artist Matthew Bannon finds a medical bag full of diamonds in Grand Central Terminal, now the Russian Mafia have hired hit men to kill him and retrieve the diamonds. But Matthew is full of surprises and killing him won't be as easy as they think.
Implant by F. Paul Wilson - The Joint Committee on Medial Ethics and Practice Guidelines slanders Dr. Duncan Lathram leading to is daughters suicide and his careers demise. Now Dr. Lathram has a chance to get even with the men who destroyed his life and family and don't even remember his name. Will Dr. Gina Panzella be able to stop him?

Do you want Clean Air?

2011-09-24T11:45:00.001-05:00

Apparently the TEA Party doesn't think having clean air to breath is all that important

TRAIN Act To Limit Clean Air Protection Passes The House

No on 26

2011-09-19T12:09:00.005-05:00

Before voting on the Personhood Amendment please considerall the potential ramifications.

If the Personhood Amendment passes many forms of birthcontrol would be illegal. This would lead to more unplanned pregnancies.

Women who are raped would no long have access to theMorning-after Pill and would be forced to endure an unwanted pregnancy.

Pregnant women would be treated like second class citizenswhen it comes to their medical care. They could be denied lifesaving medicaltreatment if it would result in harm to the fetus. For example a woman with cancer could berefused life-saving medical treatment because it could put a fertilized egg indanger. Ectopicpregnancies would also create a dilemma. The developing cells must be removed to savethe mother's life. However, with the fertilized egg beingconsidered a Person, with full rights, ending an ectopic pregnancy would beconsidered murder.

Increased unplanned pregnancies will lead to more people onwelfare and receiving food stamps. Most of the children born to unwed and/orteenage mothers will need welfare. Ifyou consider the loss of education, opportunity and job and income loss thatsometimes goes along with an unplanned pregnancy, the cost to the MississippiTax Payers is even greater.

Drinking and smoking during pregnancy would gofrom just being risky to becoming criminal negligence.

Women who have miscarriages would have to endureinvestigation for possible criminal charges, from negligence up to andincluding murder. There is already legal precedent - 15 year old Rennie Gibbswas charged in Mississippi with Depraved Heart Murder in December, 2006 after amiscarriage.

Please think carefully about all the ramifications beforevoting, if you do I am confidant you will vote No on 26.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ August

2011-09-01T08:18:00.000-05:00

The Demon Awakens by R. A. Salvatore - well I enjoyed the story but I am bummed half my favorite characters got killed off. When Elbryan's village is sacked by goblins and he is taken in and trained by the elves to be a Ranger. His best friend, Pony was the only other survivor and she has no memory of her past, and was saved by a traveling merchant. Avelyn trained from childhood to be a monk to please his Mother. He enters the monastery right before her death and is chosen for a secret mission to collect magic stones. We he realizes how ruthless and mercenary the other monks are he steals the most powerful stones and flees the monastery. Avelyn (The Mad Friar) and Pony become friends and he determines to help her regain her memories. He takes her back to Dundalis, where she is reunited with Elbryan. When Quintall, now known as Brother Justice arrives to kill Avelyn Elbryan kills him, but Quintall's spirit flees to the demon Bestesbulzibar. Realizing the only way to save their world is to defeat Bestesbulzibar in his stronghold Elbryan (The Ranger), Pony, Avelyn, Bradwarden (the centaur), Juraviel &amp;amp;amp;amp; Tuntun (the elves), Paulson &amp;amp;amp;amp; Chipmunk (the trappers) set out to confront him. After rescuing some human prisoners Juraviel has to leave his friends in orde to lead the prisoners to the only safe haven nearby. Of the remaining number only two will survive the brutal battle through the ultimate sacrifice of their friends.
Blood Memory by Greg Iles - When Catherine "Cat" Ferry finds herself pregnant by her married lover memories from her childhood start resurfacing. Cat is the only one besides the killer who knows how and why her Father was killed when she was eight. Desperate to uncover evidence and unravel the lies from her childhood Cat must outwit a man who will stop and nothing to keep the past dead and buried.
Master of Desire by Kinley MacGregor ~Draven the King's champion (Henry II) believes Hugh is attacking his lands and Hugh is equally convinced the Draven is attacking his lands. To end the feud the King orders Hugh to give his daughter Emily into Draven's care. And Draven is bound by his oath to the King not to harm her in anyway. But the over protected Emily is determined to take the opportunity away from her Father's watchful eye to snare a husband.
Born To Be BAD by Sherrilyn Kenyon - 3 hot love stories starring BAD agents. In One Hot Night when Jason Bank's cover is blown Samantha Winslow is sent in to save his bacon. In Bad to the Bone Marianne's fantasy becomes real when BAD agent Kyle Foster kidnaps her for fun and games. And in the final story Captivated by You Agent Ace Krux will undergo any humiliation to save Rhea from being harmed.
Cold Vengeance by Preston &amp;amp;amp; Child - In Fever Dream Pendergast learns his wife was murdered. In Cold Vengeance he learns that Helen is still alive. Judson Esterhazy is determined to kill Pendergast to keep that fact a secret from the mysterious COVENANT. After bungling his attempt to kill Pendergast he kidnaps Constance from the mental hospital to lure him out. After luring Pendergast to his death Esterhazy realizes that the Covenant already knows Helen is alive and wants them both dead, so he decides to work with Pendergast to save himself and Helen. Corrie Swanson (Still Life with Crows) is in New York and gets involved with the mystery after Betterton (reporter from Mississippi) contacts her in an attempt to get information about Pendergast. When Betterton winds up dead Corrie goes to check out the address he mentioned and discovers Nazi material before being discovered (is she still alive?).
The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
The Demon Spirit by R.A. Salvatore - Thinking Bradwarden dead after the battle with the demon dactyl, Bestesbulzibar, Pony &amp; Elbryan flee Mount Aida. Father Abbot Markwart who has been possessed by Bestesbulzibar sends some monks to Mount Aida to discover what happened. There they find Bradwarden still alive and through torture learn of Pony and Elbryan. Taking the Chilichunks (Pony's foster family) prisoner the monks attempt to discover where Pony is, when the Chilichunks are unable to answer the monks questions they take Connor (the Baron of Palmaris' nephew and Pony's former husband) prisoner, in order to lure Pony and Elbryan into a trap. When Abbot Dobrinion objects to the way his parishioners are being treated he meets with an untimely end. Suspecting foul play in Abbot Dobrinion's death and recognizing the two monks who have taken the mantle of Brother Justice Connor flees for his life and finds Pony in order to warn her of Father Abbot Markwart's desire to see her dead and tell her of Bradwarden and the Chilichunks imprisonment. Joining with Pony, Elbryan, Roger and Juraviel they kill one of the Brother Justices and Roger and Connor attempt to take the other back to Palmaris for trial. When the Brother Justice escapes Connor is killed and Roger flees for his life. Unable to out run the Brother Justice Roger sets a trap that leads to the Brother Justice's death. Roger takes Connor and the Brother Justice's bodies to the Baron and tells him of what Connor suspected and how the monk killed him. The Baron and Roger set out for Ursal to enlist the aid of the King against Father Abbot Markwart. Abbot De'Unnero realizing what the Baron plans to do transforms into a Tiger and kills him on the road to Ursal. Roger manages to escape. Meanwhile Juraviel, Elbryan and Pony with the help of Master Jojonah rescue Bradwarden, alas the Chilichunks are already dead. Jojonah is branded an heretic and is burned at the stake.
The Demon Apostle by R. A. Salvatore - A pregnant Pony chooses to leave Elbryan and makes her home in Palmaris disguised as Belster's wife. Brother Francis helps Brother Braumin, four additional monks who are disciples of Jojonah and Roger escape. They flee to Dundalis seeking Nightbird. (Elbryan) and Pony. Father Abbot Markwart attempts to take over the Kingdom and frightens King Danube into submission when he visits him in spirit. Father Abbot Markwart sends Bishop De'Unnero after the fugitives, who have set out for Mount Aida. When Bishop De'Unnero confronts them with the Kingsmen he reveals his ability to turn into a tiger. Realizing that Bishop De'Unnero killed Baron Bildeborough the leader of the Kingsmen Shamus Kilronney chooses to side with Nightbird and he and his soldiers are branded as outlaws by De'Unnero. De'Unnero flees back to Palmaris. Reaching Avelyn's grave the "outlaws" are saved from a goblin attack by Avelyn. When Father Abbot Markwart enters Palmaris to great fanfare Pony is overcome by rage and launches a magical attack on Markwart. Even though the attack should have killed him Markwart somehow manages to survive (raising red flags for those who know about possession), and comes after a fleeing Pony in spirit. The elves intervene and send Markwart's spirit fleeing but Pony is seriously injured. Lady Dasslerond takes the child from Pony and hides him in Andur'Blough Inninness. Pony is taken to her friends and thinks that Markwart killed her Babe. As soon as she is strong enough she sets out to find Elbryan with Colleen Kilronney (Shamus' cousin). Markwart and King Danube with monks & Kingsmen in tow set out after them and capture Pony a seriously wounded Colleen flees to Dundalis. When Thomas attempts to hide her he too is taken prisoner. Pony is able to use a Soul Stone to warn Elbryan of the armies approach. Roger is sent off to find Pony. By the time he realizes she is a prisoner he doesn't have enough time to return and warn Elbryan. Roger sets off on his own for Palmaris in hopes of finding allies and a way to help. In order to save Pony's life Elbryan and the others surrender. Pony, Elbryan, Bradwarden and the monks are imprisoned at St. Precious. Roger with Master Engress' help is able to free the prisoners. For awhile they hide in the caves but when they realize they are about to be discovered Pony sets out to confront Markwart and the rest follow. King Danube orders everyone to let them pass in hopes that Markwart will be killed. Pony joined with Elbryan's spirit defeats Markwart who realizes at the end he was possessed by Bestesbulzibar, as he is dying he confesses to Bishop Francis that he was wrong and instructs him to set things right. But victory is bittersweet Elbryan is dead and a part of Bestesbulzibar lives inside Pony & Elbryan's babe.
Private by James Patterson ( I wonder if he is creating a new series) Jack Morgan takes over his Father's private investigation company, Private and turns it into a very successful company. When his friend Shelby is brutally murdered in her own home he sets out to find her killer, while also investigating football games that may have been thrown for his Uncle Fred and helping the city stop the killers of young girls.
Gideon's Sword by Preston & Child - Gideon Crew sets out to avenge his Father who was framed as a traitor. After successfully avenging his Father Eli Glinn (The Ice Limit) recruits Crew to work for EES. His first mission is to find the plans for a revolutionary device a Chinese fugitive (Mark Wu) is bringing into the country. Mark Wu is viciously murdered by the Chinese operative Nodding Crane before Crew can get the device from him. Now Crew must outwit Nodding Crane to find the device and stay alive.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ July

2011-08-02T15:14:00.002-05:00

Blood Game by Iris Johansen - Kevin Jalek wants to become a vampire and believes killing Eve and drinking her blood will help him achieve his goal. Of course he has to take several lesser victims first one of which is Nancy Jo Norris. But Nancy Jo decides to fight back from beyond the grave and thanks to Joe's new gift she is able to communicate with him. Pushed to his limits Joe teams up with Seth Caleb, a mysterious "hunter" with a few gifts of his own, to keep Eve and Jane safe.
Eight Days To Live by Iris Johansen - When Jane paints a portrait for a "dream" she had a "Judas Cult" targets her for their Offering sacrifice. To save those close to her and put an end to the cult Jane teams up with Seth Caleb. Together they will find the pieces of silver Judas received for betraying Jesus, locate the mysterious temple and destroy the evil that Hadar spawned once and for all. Long term Eve Duncan Forensics Thriller fans will be pleased to see Jock Gavin and MacDuff featured in the story. Lina Alsouk is introduced in the book and plays and key roll in translating material for Jane and Caleb, and Jock seems very fond of her.
The Chaos Curse by R. A. Salvatore - Dean Thobicus forces those who support Cadderly out of the Edificant Library, while Cadderly is away. Druzil forces Kierkan Rufo to return to the Edificant Library so they can retrieve the chaos curse. Before Druzil can stop him Rufo drinks the chaos curse and becomes a vampire. Using his hatred of Cadderly Rufo corrupts Dean Thobicus and begins to turn the inhabitants of the Edificant Library he can corrupt into vampires and those he can't into zombies. Danica and Dorigen arrive and the Edificant Library and are captured before they realize anything is wrong. Dorigen gives her life in order for Danica to escape but sadly Danica falls into Rufo's hands. Danica chooses death rather then becoming a Vampiress. Believing Danica to be dead Cadderly, Ivan, Pikel and Shayleigh determine to kill Rufo and destroy the Edificant Library.
Chase the Night by Iris Johansen - CIA Agent Catherine Ling is desperate to find her son Luke who was kidnapped nine years ago by a ruthless Russian Mafia Head. In order to get the information she needs she strikes a deal with Venable to rescue the Winters, from a South American Drug Lord. Unfortunately Ned Winters was executed before Catherine arrived but she manages to save his 14 year old daughter Kelly. In return Venable gives her the file on Rakovac and allows Catherine to contact Eve Duncan. After hearing Catherine's story Eve agrees to do an age progression on Luke who was kidnapped at age 2 so that Catherine will know what he looks like as an 11 year old. Kelly who is unwanted by her own Mother shows up on Eve's doorstep insisting that she can help Catherine find Luke. Rakovac is unhappy that Eve is helping Catherine and threatens her. Leading Catherine, Eve & Joe to go to Russia in an attempt to find Luke and kill Rakovac. When Venable realizes that Rakovac is behind a terrorist plot he sends Kelly to Russia to help Catherine find the pattern that will lead her to Rakovac. Thinking that Eve and Kelly are safe at the farmhouse Joe and Catherine leave to sit a trap for Rakovac, but he has inside help which leads to Kelly and Eve being taking hostage. With Luke's help they escape and Joe and Catherine arrive in time to save them. Believing that she owes Eve Catherine determines to find who killed Bonnie and she gives Eve the one answer she didn't expect - Bonnie's Father.
Sword of Darkness by Kinley MacGregor (aka Sherrilyn Kenyon) - Lord of Avalon series (what happened after King Arthur died read he series and find out). A young boy who knew nothing but abuse and hatred finds Caliburn (the evil sword that balances out Excalibur). Seduced by Morgen the young boy becomes the Kerrigan (King of Morgen's Camelot). But everything changes when Morgen sends him to bring a young peasant Seren (Loom of Caswallan) to Camelot. Seren captures Kerrigan's heart and he will give up everything to see her safe in Avalon. But his Lady Mouse will fight like a tiger to save him from Morgen's clutches and to bring him to Avalon.
Eve by Iris Johansen - The first in the trilogy that will hopefully end Eve Duncan's hunt for Bonnie. John Gallo (Bonnie's Father) reenters Eve's life and they form a strong connection over their mutual love and grief for Bonnie. Gallo is convinced that Black killed Bonnie and he has been hunting him for years. But Black is being protected by members of the military who will stop at nothing to keep their illegal activity secret. When John Gallo and Eve go into hiding Queen sets Black on them. Black enjoys killing and comes up with the ultimate trap. He kidnaps the daughter of John Gallo's housekeeper and sets up a hunt in the woods near John Gallo's cabin. But unbeknownst to Black Catherine and Joe are hunting him. Captured by Joe, Black reveals that Queen was paying him to take credit for Bonnie's murder and that John Gallo killed her during one of his black out periods. Before he is killed Black manages to attack Joe and now Joe Quinn is fighting for his life in ICU (Next book in the series is Quinn).
The Other Queen by Philippa Gregory - the story of Mary Queen of Scots.
Blood Trinity - Evalle Kincaid spent her childhood locked away in her Aunt's basement where she was raped by the family doctor. Rescued by the Belador she swore allegiance to them but fears being locked away because she is an Alterant. Working for VIPER to protect mankind Evalle must learn to trust the members of her team. Together they will hunt for the Ngak Stone and return the Kujoo to where they wish to be, while defeating the evil Medb plot. (Midnight Kiss Goodbye provides the back story and introduces many of the characters of the Balador series)
I'll Walk Alone by Mary Higgins Clark - Having your identity stolen is bad enough but when the person also kidnaps your son and frames you for the crime it's enough to make you lose your mind. Can Zan convince her friends and the police that not only is she innocent but that she isn't mentally ill.
Knight of Darkness by Kinley MacGregor - The son of Lancelot and Narishka (evil Adoni) Varian duFey is trusted by neither side. But with the combine powers of a Merlin & Adoni both sides are determined to have him on their side. Sworn to the Penmerlin Aquila Varian is forced to visit his Mother in Camelot when a grail knight is killed, so he can identify the traitor in Avalon. But Narishka uses the visit to strip him of his powers and imprison him in an effort to get him to change sides. With the help of Merewyn and Blaise (mandrake) he escapes but without his powers they can not reach Avalon. Forced into the Val Sans Retour (Valley of No Return) they discover Merlin and Nimue alive and well, but determined to keep their status a secret from Morgen they refuse to let anyone leave the valley. When Varian starts to die from having his powers bound Merewyn makes a pact with the one being that can save him. With his powers restored Varian sends Blaise and Merewyn to Avalon and prepares to stop his Mother.
Death Match by Lincoln Child - Richard Silver created an Artificial Intelligence (Liza) that was capably of anything. With the use of Liza he was able to create a company (Eden) that was able to perfectly match couples and bring them great happiness. But then the super-couples (perfect matches) start committing suicide and Christopher Lash is hired to find out why. But when Christopher stumbles upon the truth that the couples are being murdered and why his life is turned into a nightmare. Can Christopher convince anyone that he isn't the killer before the real killer destroys them all. (Suspect there may be a possible sequel due to the Epilogue.)
Quinn by Iris Johansen - While Joe Quinn lays in the hospital fighting for his life Catherine tracks down John Gallo (Bonnie's Father and supposed killer) but Catherine comes to believe he is innocent. After convincing Gallo that Black could have been lying they set out to find Jacobs, the one man who may know the truth. Jacobs confirms that Gallo didn't kill Bonnie, but refuses to identify the killer. While Catherine and Gallo are waiting on Eve and Joe Quinn to show up to finish questioning Jacobs someone breaks into the house and kills Jacobs. Gallo and Catherine follow the killer into the bayou, but when Gallo gets a good luck at the killer he freezes in shock, barely managing to save Catherine's life.

Have you voted today

2011-08-02T14:44:00.003-05:00

I voted in the primaries this morning. It will be interesting to see which candidates make it to the general election. Speaking of voting.

Rep. Steven Palazzo voted YES to the North American-Made Energy Security Act. An act that could lead to a bigger environmental disaster then the BP Oil Spill. Apparently we have learned nothing from that disaster, at least our elected officials have not. You can read a good summary of the debate here.

The United States is at a crossroads, where Americans must choose between burning more fossil fuels in their cars or moving to alternatives, he said. Construction of Keystone XL only will play into more demand for oil, rather than spurring investment in cleaner power. The vehicles burning oil from Keystone XL could produce the same amount of C02 as all the trucks and cars in Canada, according to Leach's analysis.

It's not that this project alone would lead to catastrophic emissions, but it would start a process that could lead to more pipelines down the road and even more extraction, according to McKibben.

Timing is also a key part of why the project is so important in terms of climate change, he said. Keystone XL could be operational by 2013, while other proposals could take five to 10 years to move through regulation, according to some estimates. Those future dates could come at at a time when public opinion about climate change is different, he said.

"There is a limited period of time to make this a fait accompli. Sooner or later, the world's going to come to its senses about carbon, at which point no one is going to invest hundreds of billions to get the stuff out of the tar sands," McKibben said.

Half Shell Oyster House

2011-07-27T21:11:00.002-05:00

I had the pleasure of dining at the Half Shell Oyster House in Biloxi today. The decor is shabby chic, the music is delightful and the atmosphere is wonderful. The food is superb.

I chose the

Seafood Stuffed Portabella
A large portabella mushroom stuffed with lump crabmeat, minced chipotle peppers and seasoning, then grilled and served with Lemon Aioli sauce

and for a side
Half Shell Salad
Spring mix, avocado, goat cheese, toasted pine nuts, chives, diced tomatoes and shredded carrots served with our Signature Roasted Garlic Balsamic house dressing.

Both dishes were delicious. I especially enjoyed the house dressing. I am looking forward to dining there again soon.

Kenmore Elite Oasis HE is a LEMON

2011-07-15T19:05:00.002-05:00

We bought the washing machine December of 2006. I loved the large capacity and that it was environmentally friendly. Supposedly it conserves natural resources - saves 70% water and 67% energy (Compared to a conventional washer manufactured before 2004, using the Normal cycle). And the gentlewash™ technology with Invizible™ agitator was a big plus in my opinion. Without that stupid agitator in the middle I could easily wash my full size comforter. So there is a LOT I like about the machine.

Sadly the electronics DO NOT hold up. I read the manual and followed the directions including using the HE detergent religiously so there is NO REASON I should be having all the problems with this machine that started occurring pretty much a year after we purchased it.

When my washer started acting flaky again, I looked online for possible solutions. The washer goes through the wash and rinse cycles fine but will not complete the spin cycle. It gives the UL code (unleval lode) and no amount of rearranging the load helps. Online I discovered others were having this problem too. I eventually stumbled upon the information that Kenmore was offering a free upgrade to the Motherboard as the one installed originally is defective. I called the number supplied 1-888-536-6673 and the lady I spoke with verified that my model # 110.27092602 Serial #CT4870895 was eligible for the FREE upgraded Motherboard, and she wanted to set up a service call. I inquired if the service call was FREE. Her reply NO, and that I would have to pay for a service call to diagnose the problem + labor as well as a service call to install the Motherboard + the labor to install it. I informed her that I would just like the upgraded Motherboard as my husband (who has an electrical degree and works with computers) could install it. Her response. We don't do that you have to pay for the labor to get the FREE upgrade. So apparently companies are allowed to install defective parts in your appliances and exhort huge labor fees to fix them. Kinda makes you think they might intentionally be installing defective parts in order to create work for themselves.

Like many of these people I doubt I will ever buy a Kenmore product or appliance from Sears again.

There is also a

Investigation Concerning Problems With - Kenmore Elite Oasis Top Load Washing Machine

July 11, 2011 - UPDATE: I spoke to someone at Customer Solutions today. Apparently my Motherboard was updated in 2009. This part was sent to us and my husband installed it, so apparently they changed their policy since 2009. The man I spoke with today said they can send someone out for a flat rate of $129.00 and that all we have to pay for is parts and that some parts are covered by Kenmore under their Exceptional Parts Coverage until 2016. I do wish the lady I spoke with had told me that when I spoke with her July 7, 2011

After reading everything online and speaking with the unhelpful lady July 7th we purchase a GE washer from Lowes. They installed it this morning and I am very happy with it, but if the Kenmore can be fixed for a reasonable price within a reasonable amount of time I regret buying a new one.

July 12, 2011 - Update: After speaking with my husband we decided to go ahead and get the Kenmore repaired. I called the # Roland gave me 1-800-479-6351 to set up the appointment. The lady I spoke with had to get manager approval for the special rate Roland quoted me but she did verify that the $129.00 is for all labor, even if they have to order parts and come back and fix it. Hopefully the parts will be covered under the exceptional parts coverage Roland told me I had until 2016. The appointment is set up for tomorrow between 1-5PM.

July 13, 2011 - Update Because of defective parts that caused the seals to leak and water to get into places it shouldn't I would pretty much have to have the washer completely rebuilt. The major parts were covered but my share of the parts plus labor would be around $379.00 I had the option of canceling the service call for no charge so I decided to do that. Hope I made the right decision.

July 15, 2011 - Was told that there was a tub ring recall in 2008 ( I never received notification). If the tub ring had been replaced then my washer would probably still be in good shape. Oh, and the recall only covered the part not labor. This is also the 4th time I called and it is the FIRST time I have been told about a recall on the Tub Ring. You would have also thought someone MIGHT have mentioned it in 2009 when they upgraded the motherboard.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ June

2011-07-02T11:41:00.000-05:00

10th Anniversary by James Pattrson & Maxine Paetro - Lindsey works overtime to find a kidnapped newborn and Cindy puts her life at risk to find a serial rapist.
The Ghost King by R. A. Salvatore - The Companions of Mithral Hall lose two of their own to the unraveling of Mystra's Weave. Hephaestus finds himself joined with Crenshinibon (The Crystal Shard) and Yharaskrik as The Ghost King and the trio seek revenge on Jarlaxle and Cadderly. A great sacrifice is demanded and new friendships are formed.
The Gift by James Patterson - Whit and Wisty are running for their lives and they don't know who to trust or what to believe. Will they escape death at the hands of THE ONE.
Canticle by R. A. Salvatore - Cadderly and Danica are students at the Edificant Library when a priest of Talona (Barjin) unleashes the chaos curse. With the help of the Druid Newander, Ivan & Pikel as well as Percival the squirrel Cadderly will defeat the evil Barjin and stop the chaos curse from spreading.
what the night knows by Dean Koontz - Twenty years ago John Calvino's family was murdered by Alton Turner Blackwood, a man whose childhood was tainted by incest and murder. John was the only survivor of the massacre and he killed Blackwood. But now Blackwood is back and eager to kill John's wife and children if John can't find a way to stop him and the unspeakable evil he has brought with him.
Mystery by Jonathan Kellerman - Alex Delaware and Robin Castagna are two of the last people to see Tiara (aka Mystery) alive. Knowing that Alex is helping Milo investigate her murder a client gives Alex clues to help uncover the murderer as well as the family secret that led to the murder.
inVincible by Sherrilyn Kenyon - Nick discovers Ambrose's true identity thanks to a scar. The new coach (Coach Devus) wants Nick to steal stuff from his classmates, if he doesn't do it the coach threatens to plant evidence on him and have him killed in jail. With the help of Caleb Xenon, and Kody, Nick is able to save Devus' first victim (Julianne) and destroy Devus.
Buried Prey by John Sandford - When Lucas Davenport was a rookie two girls went missing, the crime was pinned on a homeless guy with mental problems. Davenports hunch that John Fell (alias) was the true killer was ignored. Now the girls bodies have been found and as head of the BCA Davenport has the clout to look for Fell. As Davenport closes in Fell starts killing potential witnesses against him.
In Sylvan Shadows by R. A. Salvatore - With Shilmista in peril Prince Elbereth comes to the Edificant Library for help. Cadderly, Danica and Rufo accompany him back to Shilmista. Druzil uses Rufo to spy on the elves and Dorigen sets a trap for Cadderly and his friends. When all appears lost Ivan and Pikel rescue Cadderly, Danica and Elbereth. With Shilmista about to fall to the enemy Cadderly discovers away to awaken the trees to fight by their side. Once Shilmista is safe Cadderly sets out on his own, while unbeknownst to him Aballister makes plans to be rid of Cadderly once and for all.
Night Mask by R. A. Salvatore - Aballister hires a band of assassins (The Night Mask) to assassinate Cadderly and Danica. Cadderly's new found clerical abilities allow him to banish Ghost from Vander's body and make a powerful new ally.
The Fallen Fortress by R.A. Salvatore - Cadderly sets out to destroy the evil inside Castle Trinity, while Aballister futility tries to stop him. Dorigen remembering how Cadderly spared her life decides to help Cadderly and his friends and Druzil plots to release the chaos curse once again.

Bee - a - thon 2011

2011-06-30T18:41:00.001-05:00

On July 16, bee counters across the nation are hosting “backyard bee parties” and other garden events as they celebrate Bee-a-thon 2011, the first-ever online “town hall” event dedicated to our pollinators and broadcasting live to worldwide audiences from 9 am to 9 pm US-Pacific Time.

Visit Your Garden Show to find out more.

Vyckie Garrison states ultra-demanding lifestyle of Quiverfull is a recipe for abuse, neglect, burnout and insanity.

2011-06-27T13:23:00.000-05:00

Born to Breed: An Interview With Quiverfull Walkaway Vyckie Garrison was eye opening.

Vyckie Garrison: Political domination is a core principle of the Quiverfull worldview. Quiverfull’s proof-text, Psalm 127, promises that the man whose quiver is full of arrows “will not be ashamed, but will speak with the enemies in the gate.” We were taught that in Bible times, the city gate was the place where male leaders made decisions regarding local government.

The whole point of having a quiver full of babies is to
1) out-populate the “enemy,” that is, the godless, liberal, lesbian feminists, and
2) launch those many arrows “straight into the heart of the enemy.” And by that, we meant that our children would grow up to be leaders in all the major institutions of our society: Faith, Family, Education, Art, Business, Media, and Government — this is known as the“Seven Mountains doctrine.”

I see the Quiverfull movement accelerating the implementation of patriarchal and dominionist ideas and policies using an impressive marketing saavy (see above) which is proving frightfully effective among the Evangelical population.

The Quiverfull movement not only affects those Evangelical Christians who choose to follow it's percepts but through politics attempts to control the lives of non believers.

Grilled Chicken Pitas with Cucumber Sauce

2011-06-26T11:46:00.001-05:00

Marinate chicken strips in Greek Salad dressing overnight. Grill, and slice into bite size pieces.

Cucumber Sauce:
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup finely chopped cucumber
1 Tablespoon minced fresh parsley
1 Tablespoon lime juice
1 garlic glove minced
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/8 teaspoon chilpotle pepper

Mix together

Pitas:
8 pita pocket halves
1/2 cup sliced cucumber
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Add cucumber, tomatoes, chicken and feta cheese to the cucumber sauce and stir together. Place inside pita pockets and enjoy.

For my Love

2011-06-20T06:18:00.000-05:00

A slap in the face of all women

2011-06-11T16:44:00.001-05:00

Unwavering in their ignorance, the Alabama Senate even used this “false research” to reject an amendment that would have allowed exceptions to the 20-week ban “to preserve a woman’s health or ‘where the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.’” State Sen. Linda Coleman (D) viewed the failure as “literally a slap in the face of all women.” But Beason instructed sexual assault victims that they have plenty of time to deal with their situation earlier:

Apparently a woman's health is irrelevant to the Alabama Senate.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ May

2011-05-29T14:36:00.000-05:00

Nightworld by F. Paul Wilson (From The Adversary Cycle ) - disconcerting as this book was written before some of the Repairman Jack novels ( I have heard Wilson is going to rewrite it in order to change the contradictions in this book with the Repairman Jack novels) Glaeken brings Father Bill, Nick Quinn, Jack, Carol, Sylvia Nash, her son Jeffy, Ba and Dr. Alan Bulmer (The Touch) together to fight Rasalom. Each will make a sacrifice in order to reassemble the sword that defeated Rasalom once before. The sword will choose one to wield it, in it's final battle against Rasalom.
Toys by James Patterson - As an Elite Hays Baker has it all. Employed by the Agency of Change Hays works hard to protect Elites from those filthy humans. But then the unthinkable happens an accident reveals that Hays is human and his wife, best friend and boss all turn on him. Fleeing for his life Hays joins the humans who are fighting to keep the Elites from exterminating them.
Infinity (Chronicles of Nick) by Sherrilyn Kenyon - OK, now some of the discrepancies in the other novels are starting to make sense. Ambrose (Nick Gautier) is trying to change his history before he destroys the world (Karnarsas). In an attempt to unlock his powers at a younger age and prevent the events that lead to his becoming a Dark Hunter Ambrose has made contact with 14 year old Nick and has revealed to Nick that he has "powers". Ambrose gives Nick a gold dagger that will enable him to kill Gods, demons, zombies.............and a book that will allow Nick to hone his skills. He'll need both to battle the zombies that are coming after him and his friends. He also arranges for Nick to meet Simi earlier. But an unexpected element has entered the equation. Nick meets Nekoda (someone Ambrose has no memory of) and falls in love.
Fatal Burn by Lisa Jackson - Dani Settlers attempts to find her Birth Mother lead her into a trap. Her kidnapper is killing off all the people Shannon Flannery cares about one by one and he plans to use Dani to lure Shannon to her death. Can Travis find his daughter in time?
The Shadow of Your Smile by Mary Higgins Clark - Dr. Monica Farrell is fixing to be revealed as the heiress to the Gannon fortune but there are those who will stop at nothing to keep the secret from coming out. As those who know the secret are murdered one by one will Monica discover the identity of her Grandparents before she too is killed. (Great Book)
Fatal Error by F. Paul Wilson - Glaeken believes he has committed a fatal error by letting Rasalom know he is now an elderly old man. Dawn's baby is born and looks like a q'qrs. The baby is taken from Dawn and she is told he is dead, Mr Osala (Rasalom) kicks her out of his apartment and she winds up in an apartment next to Weezy. The Septimus Order takes down the Internet, but The Lady still lives.
Born of Shadows by Sherrilyn Kenyon - Condemned to death for a crime he didn't commit Caillen Dagan's luck seems to have run out. Even his powerful friends can't save him from the executioners blade. But then at the last moment his parentage is revealed. As Emperor Evzen's only son Caillen is his sole heir. But someone wants him and his Father out of the way so they can claim the throne. Accused of killing Emperor Evzen & Queen Sarra while kidnapping Queen Sarra's daughter Desideria, Caillen is running for his life with Desideria in tow. The two are determined to prove their innocence and with the help of Caillen's friends in the Sentella they just might pull it off. (Loved the book)
Silent Truth by Sherrilyn Kenyon - Hunter Thornton - Payne watched his best friend fall to his death and vowed to catch his killer no matter what. But when Abbie Blanton stumbles back into his life his plans for vengeance take a back seat to helping Abbie save her Mother's life.
Guilty Pleasures by Laurell K. Hamilton - the novel that introduced Anita Blake Vampire Hunter. The Master Vampire, Nikolaos, hires Anita to find out who is killing vampires. Failure will mean a most unpleasant death.
Demonsong by F. Paul Wilson - a short story that introduces Glaeken and Rasalom. Prince Iolon's realm is being destroyed by an evil wizard (Rasalom) and he is offering a reward to anyone who kills Rasalom and brings back his ring. Glaeken a foreigner in need of coin heads off to earn the reward. You can download the story for free here.
The Jolicure Cats by Lorrie Bell Hawkins illustrated by Dwight Kirkland - A lovely book. Lorrie reminisces about the special cats that shared her life, beautifully illustrated.

I am Married to the Moon Pie Guy

2011-05-10T13:30:00.000-05:00

Unique campaign expense.

Jimmy Lamar Alawine, for example, a Democratic candidate for District 4 Supervisor, listed $211 in supplies from Toomey's Mardi Gras for throws for the St. Martin parade. The report also listed about $10 spent at Walmart for "labels for putting campaign ads on Moon Pies."

Interesting

2011-05-08T07:02:00.001-05:00

Sikivu Hutchinson was at the University of South Alabama to talk about her new book on sexism. While she restricts her studies to African American and Latin Women I believe that the problems of sexism affect all women, including white women, especially in the South.

Centuries after it was enshrined in the Bible, woman-bashing as law and public morality is still a cornerstone of the West’s unshakeable faith. But as the pro-death, anti-abortion, anti-family values legions of the right drive their scriptural stake through women’s bodies, we believe this new generation of black and Latina feminists will be prepared to face them.

Automobile Insurance

2011-05-06T18:30:00.000-05:00

There has been a lot of noise lately about uninsured motorist in Mississippi. Our automobile was hit by an insured motorist, one would think that would mean we wouldn't have to deal with medical bills and such. This isn't the case apparently our insurance is expected to pay and then we are expected to pay any deductibles and copays out of pocket, eventually the other party's insurer will settle with us.

And it took approximately a MONTH for us to get the payment for the car that was totaled, there has to be a better way.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ April

2011-04-30T13:46:00.132-05:00

Ben- Hur by Lew Wallace (published 1880) - I am having a lot of trouble getting into the book, but owe Mr. Wallace a debt of thanks as his "novel" made it permissible for Christians (especially Protestants) to read novels. So far I have found it rather boring. Book One is familiar to anyone who has read the Bible. We have the meeting of the wise men in the dessert and blond blue eyed Mary headed to Bethlehem with her Uncle-Husband Joseph. Tidy way of explaining how Jesus could be descended form the line of David when Joseph isn't his Father. Book Two starts covering new ground. We are introduced to a young Ben Hur, a wealthy young Jewish aristocrat. Tragedy befalls his family when he leans over a roof top balcony to get a look at the Roman Governor Gratus and a tile dislodges and hits Gratus. The Roman authorities sweep in and seize the family, their servants and seal up the house. Ben Hur is sent to be a galley slave. On the route there he encounters Jesus, who gives the exhausted prisoner water to drink. Years later Quintus Arrius becomes master of the ship Ben Hur is imprisoned on. He notice Ben Hur's attractiveness (the men in this book spend an inordinate amount of time admiring other men's bodies), and speaks with him. He realizes Ben Hur is the son of his late friend and when he learns Ben-Hur never had a trial determines to look into the matter. Before he can the ship is sunk in battle. Ben Hur saves Quintus Arrius' life and when the Romans rescue them, Quintus Arrius adopts Ben Hur. After Quintus Arrius' death Ben Hur returns to Judea. He discovers that his Father's bound slave Simonides has managed to save some of the Hur fortune. Simonides has been tortured by the Romans but has refused to reveal the information they sought. He is now crippled and confined to a chair. Sheik Ilderim is Simonides friend and promises his help to Ben Hur. A letter comes into his possession showing the plot between Gratus and Messala to destroy the Hur family and take their fortune. Ben Hur prepares to race Sheik Ilderim's horses against Messala in the Circus. Ben Hur beats Messala in the chariot race and Messala is crippled in an accident on the track. Because he wagered heavily on the race Messala in also now broke. He hires two assassins to kill Ben Hur. One of the assassins is Ben Hur's old teacher, Ben Hur kills the other assassin and makes a deal with his former teacher, to lie to Messala and tell him that Ben Hur is dead. Ben Hur goes into the dessert with Sheik Ilderim and they plot to help the Jewess Messiah. Gratus is replaced by Pilate and many political prisoners are released including Ben Hur's Mother and Sister. Unfortunately they were exposed to leprosy while imprisoned and are forced to leave the city. Amrah ( a Hur servant) finds her mistress and Tirzah and takes them food each day, she promises not to reveal their whereabouts to Ben Hur. Amrah overhears Ben Hur telling Simonides and Sheik Ilderim about Jesus healing the lepers and that he is on his way to Jerusalem. She hastens to her Mistress and Tirzah with the news and they go to the roadside where Jesus heals them on his way into the city. Ben Hur is reunited with his now healed family, but has to accept that Jesus' Kingdom is spiritual.
Deep Freeze by Lisa Jackson -Famous actress Jenna Hughes and her two daughters (Cassie & Allie) moved to Oregon to get away from the Hollywood lifestyle, but an obsessed fan with ties to the small community followed her. The fan is obsessed with collecting all the characters Jenna has played over the years and plans for Jenna and Cassie to be the final additions to his collection. Sheriff Shane Carter figures out the stalkers identity but has to climb the frozen falls that claimed his best friends life to save Jenna & Cassie.
No Mercy by Sherrilyn Kenyon - Samia (Dark Hunter Amazon Warrior) hooks up with Dev Peltier (Arcadian Bear) but their romance is anything but smooth. First Stryker wants Samia (Sam) to tell him how to undo his Father's curse and what his Father's weakness is. Unfortunately there is no way to undo Apollo's curse and his one weakness is get this the son (Stryker) he doomed to die a horrible death or turn Daimon. In order to protect Sam and those Sam loves Thorn sends Dev to retrieve Hippolyta's Girdle (Sam goes with him as a spirit). Thorn and Savitar have a run in over Thorn's interference with Dev & Sam. And when Acheron is unable to retrieve Sam's soul from Artemis, Nick does.
The Pirate King by R. A. Salvatore - Captain Deudermont determines to overthrow the power behind the pirates in Luskan and with Drizzt, Guenhwyvar and Regis' help overthrows the lich Arklem Greeth. Deudermont is then made Governor of Luskan and discovers that keeping the peace in Luskan is more difficult then overthrowing a lich. Especially with the mysterious "voice" (Jarlaxle) directing "The Crow" and manipulating the Five High Captains. Regis, Drizzt, and Guenhwyvar visit Icewind Dale and find Wulfgar on the tundra.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ March (Haven't been reading much)

2011-03-31T14:53:00.040-05:00

Son of Rosemary by Ira Levin - Rosemary comes out of a 27 year coma induced by the coven. Her son a grown man is a charismatic individual with world wide influence. Is he planning to destroy the world like his Father (Satan) wants or was it all just a bad dream.
Tick Tock by James Patterson - Michael Bennett is called away from his vacation to catch a copy cat killer, but when the killers identity is revealed the case takes an even more bizarre turn. A turn that could cost Bennett his life. On a personal note Bennett has to choose between the Irish Nanny Mary Catherine and FBI agent Emily Parker.
Ford County by John Grisham - A collection of short stories. Would be great for an American or Mississippi Literature Class. Truthful portrayals of small town Mississippi life.
Theodore Boone kid lawyer - 13 year old Theo makes sure a killer is brought to justice. Great book for pre-teens, teens and adults. Full of humor and teen angst.
Treachery in Death by J. D. Robb - When Peabody overhears some dirty cops discussing murder in a run down gym she heads straight to Dallas with the evidence. But Renee Oberman has her Daddy's name, plus dirty cops in strategic areas to protect her. Can Eve with the help of those she trust bring Renee down before she kills again? Possibly one of the best books in the series and Peabody really shines in it.

My Review of Butterfly Meadow 7 - Piece Pasta / Salad Set

2011-03-28T10:54:00.002-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Artist Louise Le Luyer sets butterflies free on this porcelain serving set. Scalloped edges and floral accents give each piece its graceful look. The Butterfly Meadow 7-Piece Pasta/Salad Set is crafted of dishwasher and microwave-safe Lenox white porcelain and includes serving bowl and s...

Greeting Spring in Style

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 3/28/2011

Lovely china pattern adds the perfect touch to a Spring table.

(I received a credit toward the purchase of this product)

My Review _ Hummingbird Feeder

2011-03-28T10:48:00.003-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Fantastic

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 3/28/2011

Just got mine hung up in time for hummingbird season. It looks great hanging from the Hummingbird Cottage. It is easy to fill and was a snap to put together. I look forward to using it for many years.

(I received a credit toward the purchase of this product)

My Review

2011-03-23T08:30:00.003-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Cute as can be

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 3/23/2011

Am using it as a terrarium and I love it. It looks very stylish in my bedroom.

(I received a credit toward the purchase of this product)

My Review

2011-03-23T08:26:00.004-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

A Leash by another name

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 3/23/2011

I love the color but found the lead to wide for my hand. I like the twisted leather part and wish it extended the entire length of the lead.

Would not buy this lead again but as I found it well made would see if the manufacture carried leads in a different style. I would really prefer a narrow lead as that feels more comfortable to me.

(I received a credit toward the purchase of this product)

Love My New Shoes

2011-03-23T08:14:00.000-05:00

I received a credit from CSN Stores toward a purchase and this was one of the items I bought. I LOVE this shoe!!!! It is the most comfortable shoe I have ever worn. When I first tried it on it felt a little short but I am glad I didn't return it for a larger size as it fits perfectly now. I love the color and the cute flower cut out, I think the shoe is very stylish. The color goes with practically everything and it holds up well. I inadvertently stepped in a mud puddle up to my ankles and while most shoes would have been ruined this one was good as new once I wiped it off. I will certainly look for Walking Cradles the next time I am in the market for new shoes.

I was there

2011-03-23T05:01:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed hearing Mr Blessey speak yesterday and the luncheon at the IP was very nice. We were served salad with grilled chicken strips and cheesecake.

http://www.sunherald.com/2011/03/22/2965097/blessey-speaks-at-league-of-women.html

Alasandra's Reading List ~ February

2011-02-28T14:50:00.000-06:00

The Confession by John Grisham - When a white cheerleader (Nicole) goes missing an innocent 18 year old African American High School football player (Donte) is harassed and tortured by the police until he confesses. The confession is used in court where the lawyer for the prosecution and the judge are having a torrid affair to convict. The DEATH PENALTY is handed down even though a body was never found. Now a white serial rapist (Travis Boyette) who has just been paroled is claiming to have killed Nicole, but the Court of Appeals doesn't believe him and the Governor refuses to stay the execution until Boyette can lead them to the body. The Court of Appeals refuses to accept the affidavit of the sole witness against Donte (Nicole's on again off again white football playing boyfriend ) stating that he lied about seeing Donte throw Nicole's body into the river because it arrived 7 minutes late. Donte is executed!!!!!!! Boyette then leads them to Nicole's body which he buried in another state and the State of Texas declares Donte INNOCENT after MURDERING him.
The Orc King by R. A. Salvatore - a melancholy book as Drizzt is speaking with Hralien (a moon elf) centuries after the events in the book take place, Bruenor, Wulfgar, Regis & Catti-brie are long gone. Wulfgar chooses to return to Icewind Dale alone and seek out a place with his tribe. Colson is returned to her Mother in Auckney. Bruenor discovers a city where orcs and dwarfs lived in peace. Bruenor leads a party to kill King Obould. But after learning that King Obould wants peace and that it was Grguch that was responsible for the attack on Mithral Hall and the Moonwood, Bruenor saves King Obould's life and makes peace with him. Tos'un ( a drow) proves his loyalty to Drizzt, Bruenor & Hralien and finds a home with the moon elves.
Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin - you can read my review here.
Reprisal by F. Paul Wilson - Carol's "baby" is all grown up and sets out to destroy Father Bill's life. Rasalom discovers that Glaeken is an old man and assumes he is powerless to stop him from destroying the world as we know it.
True Grit by Charles Portis - I much prefer the movie version starring John Wayne as Rooster Cogburn. Mattie Ross is a most unlikable heroine with her self-righteous attitude and opinionated ways. One has to admiring the lengths she went to to bring her Father's killer to justice, but I found the book tedious and unbelievable. I also found the ending very upsetting as all the horses were killed.
Forbidden Faith The Secret History of Gnosticism by Richard Smoley - An interesting book. Hard to follow unless you have at least a basic understanding of the subject.
Running Blind by Lee Child - The FBI blackmails Reacher into helping them catch a serial killer, but they aren't pleased when the identity of the serial killer is revealed as one of their own.

Disappointed

2011-02-27T08:35:00.000-06:00

I was disappointed in the Blueprint Mississippi luncheon I attended in Pascagoula. Little emphasis was placed on protecting our environment and cutting pollution. In fact having "shovel ready" sites was touted as an advantage. Dr. Hank Bounds was unable to attend due to a conflict in his schedule, but the emphasis seemed to be on having more high school graduates (which is good) but I didn't see much encouragement for having more university graduates. The idea Blueprint Mississippi seemed to be advancing was to attract industries by allowing them to build no matter how much damage their company would do to our environment, while providing cheap labor.

Tourism was touted as a major employer in our community. But no acknowledgment was made of the harm heavy industries that damage our environment would do to the tourist industry.

I would like to see more emphasis placed on having more university graduates and bringing higher paying jobs to Mississippi. I would like to see CLEAN Industries encouraged and more stringent regulations on industries so our environment isn't harmed.

Outraged!

2011-02-23T05:40:00.003-06:00

MICHAEL WILLIAMS expressed dismay in his letter to the editor Yes, trim the budget, but use common sense that Congressmen Palazzo voted to defund Planned Parenthood and Public Broadcasting while also reduce the funding available for Pell Grants. While I am upset by these cuts, I am outraged that MY TAXMONEY is being used to Fund Nascar race cars.

McCollum called the tens of millions of dollars in taxpayer funding for NASCAR race cars an “absurdity.”

McCollum said she will introduce new legislation to prohibit taxpayer funds from being used for motor sports sponsorships, including $45 million earmark for NASCAR and race track owners.

Apparently pap smears and mammograms for women, public broadcasting which provides shows that help educate our children (Sesame Street) as well as shows that enrich us culturally and provide community connections not available anywhere else and helping low income students afford college aren't as important as race cars.

I suggest you join me in asking Congressmen Palazzo how he can justify funding NASCAR while defunding Planned Parenthood, PBS and cutting the funding for Pell Grants.

Dinning with Alasandra

2011-02-16T17:05:00.000-06:00

For Valentines Bo treated me to lunch @ Ly Buffet in Pascagoula. The decor is interesting, I love the inlaid tables. The food was OK, a couple of seafood dishes I really liked, my favorite was the mussels on the half shell. Reasonably priced. Since we did lunch we had to eat in Pascagoula and there aren't many restaurants to choose from over there. And I have always enjoyed Chinese. Bo isn't that big a fan of Chinese food, so I am sure he choose Ly's to humor me.

The sorry you weren't really raped ~ Republican Bill

2011-02-12T08:14:00.005-06:00

For years we all agreed that rape was when a woman was forced to have sex against her will. But now the anti choice crowd in Congress want to redefine rape. (H.R. 3)

"We are seeing more and more anti-choice lawmakers who are willing to deny survivors of rape and incest access to abortion care," NARAL president Nancy Keenan told Raw Story. "If they can't block access altogether, they will work around the edges. Rep. Smith's 'Stupak on Steroids' bill is an example of this piecemeal strategy because it seeks to make the narrow exceptions for public funding of abortion care for rape and incest survivors even more restrictive."

Wasserman Schultz also said the bill contradicted the GOP's core political philosophy.

"Even though Republicans say they want government out of our lives, this is the most intrusive governmental act that we've probably seen to date in the personal lives of women," she said.

Exclusive: Dem calls GOP rape-redefining bill ‘a violent act against women’

For a party that claims it wants less intrusion into our lives, the Republicans seem determined to intrude on a woman's right to choose.

Sign a petition to stop H.R. 3 here.

Other bills dealing with a woman's right to choose in the House H.R. 105, H.R. 165, H.R. 212, H.R. 217, H.R. 358, H.R. 361, H.R. 364, H.R. 374, H.R. 397, H.R. 593

But setting aside that issue what about the legal precedent it would set. As Oonagh McQuarrie put it.

My issue is about the precedent this bill still has the potential to set. When that type of language is written into a bill, it is representative of a mood, of a general feeling in the country. If Congress redefines rape and characterizes it by the level of force that occurs, the door is opened for date-rapists and people who take advantage of women but don’t break any bones or leave any bruises.

Rape is a hard enough crime to prove without redefining it in terms of the level of violence. According to the 2005 National Crime Victimization Study, 60 percent of rapes go unreported. The Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network did the math. Even if the rapist is arrested and goes to trial, there is only a 16.9 percent chance he will actually serve jail time. Fifteen of every 16 rapists walk free. What will happen when only violent rapes count?

Counterpoint: Redefining rape sets dangerous precedent

I too wonder what will happen IF only violent rapes count? If women don't fight back even with a gun held to their head will they be told sorry your weren't really raped you didn't put up a fight? Will women whose assailants used date rape drugs be told sorry you weren't really raped because you were too out of it to know what was going on.

Federal bills aren't the only bills attempting to trivialize rape.

Jennifer White, attorney for legal programs at the Family Violence Prevention Fund, said that even when victims do come forward, prosecutions and convictions are still often incredibly difficult to get."Changing, just for these particular crimes, the word 'victim' to 'accuser' really buys into an outdated and disproved myth about victims who come forward with these kinds of allegations," said White. "I think it's a sad reality that for some reason, it's easier for society, in some respects, to believe that a victim would fabricate this type of crime than to believe that a person is capable of committing certain atrocities. And it really has a chilling effect for victims who already have an extremely difficult time coming forward."

The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee writes, "To diminish a victim's ordeal by branding him/her an accuser essentially questions whether the crime committed against the victim is a crime at all. Robbery, assault, and fraud are all real crimes with real victims, the Republican asserts with this bill."

Georgia State Lawmaker Seeks To Redefine Rape Victims As 'Accusers'

Public Radio Under Attack

2011-02-11T16:04:00.003-06:00

There is a bill in Congress H.R. 69 To prohibit Federal funding of certain public radio programming

Public radio has provided a much needed service in the conservative area I live in. Without public radio my access to hard news and unbiased reporting would be severely limited.

If you wish to let Congress know your feelings you can take action at Don’t Let Congress Silence NPR and PBS.

Cross posted @ The Big Kahuna

Dinning with Alasandra

2011-02-10T17:45:00.000-06:00

Bo took me to The Olive Garden for my birthday. I had Asiago Ravioli with Chicken, it's a new dish that is available for a limited time. It was delicious and I hope they decide to keep it on their menu. For dessert I tried the Dolcini - my choices (you get 3) were Chocolate Mousse with Dark Chocolate Cookie Crust • Strawberry & White Chocolate Cream Cake and Dark Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Mousse & Caramel Cream. The Dark Chocolate Cake with Chocolate Mousse & Caramel Cream was my favorite. Maybe I'll have it again and try the other two next time I visit The Olive Garden.

Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin

2011-02-08T07:26:00.000-06:00

A classic tale of horror. Catholic Rosemary moves from the mid-west to New York where she marries Protestant Guy Woodhouse. Her family pretty much disowns her and the one person she can depend on falls into a mysterious coma when he tries to warn her of the danger she is in. Too late Rosemary discovers that the Bramford houses a coven of witches who want her baby. Her plans to escape or thwarted by Guy. Told her child is dead Rosemary becomes suspicious when she hears a baby crying, but when she is reunited with her child she realizes he is a monster.

If you need a laugh

2011-02-06T20:45:00.000-06:00

click here.

Joe Pitts Thinks It is OK To Let Women Die!

2011-02-04T18:25:00.003-06:00

One hundred members of Congress (so far) have cosponsored a bill (HR 358 The Protect Life Act) introduced by far right Congressman Joe Pitts (R-PA) called the "Protect Life Act." They want to "protect life" so much that they have written into the bill a new amendment that would override the requirement that emergency room doctors save every patient, regardless of status or ability to pay. The law would carve out an exception for pregnant women; doctors and hospitals will be allowed to let pregnant women die if interventions to save them will kill the fetus.

You can read more here.

4 Kitties Need Homes

2011-02-03T17:26:00.000-06:00

Jan's Funny Farm: 4 Kitties Need Homes: "Today, we'd like to share information on 4 more cats in need of homes. Most of them are in Ohio but can most likely be transported. Visit Jan's Funny Farm for more info.

Dinning with Alasandra

2011-02-03T12:23:00.000-06:00

Grains of Montana

I enjoyed the Spinach & Artichoke Sandwich. A turkey breast with spinach and artichoke spread, bacon strips & sliced tomatoes on foccacia bread, it was extremely good. I also had a bowl of the Portobello Mushroom Soup, which was very tasty.

My Review of Bell in Sun Gold

2011-02-02T17:11:00.003-06:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Bell by Mark Lemp

Dress it up, dress it down – Walking Cradles presents the Romance. This beautiful slip-on sandal really shines with its ornate shimmery stitching and delicate line.

Features:

Bell in Sun Gold
P...

Runs Small

By Alasandra from Mississippi on 2/2/2011

Very comfortable shoe, but you should order a half size larger then you normally wear. I usually wear a 9.5 but it seems a little short. Wish I had gotten a 10 instead.
It looks great.

(I purchased these shoes with a coupon from the store)

Dinning with Alasandra

2011-02-02T12:23:00.002-06:00

I enjoyed the French pancakes at Phoenicia Restaurant in Ocean Springs for breakfast. These pancakes (topped with strawberries and french suzzette) not only look gorgeous on the plate but taste yummy in your tummy.

Why A Woman's Right to Choose Should be Protected

2011-01-30T18:32:00.004-06:00

First no woman wants to have an abortion. I mean think about it who wants to have any medical procedure. NOBODY, right!!!!!!

Now there are a lot of anti-choice people out there that insist on calling a medical procedure murder and spreading a bunch of ~~lies~~ misinformation about abortion. They usually wind up using their religious beliefs to justify their position. Thankfully we live in America where we are guaranteed religious freedom something the anti-choice people seem to forget in their zeal to force their religious beliefs on the rest of us.

There are many factors that may lead a woman to seek an abortion, in the final analysis it is her life and it should be her choice

Some things to consider

Mental Health Risk

Having an abortion does not increase the risk of mental health problems, but having a baby does, one of the largest studies to compare the aftermath of both decisions suggests. Results were published in Thursday's New England Journal of Medicine. (Wednesday, Jan 26, 2011)

Abortion does not harm mental health, study says

Cancer Risk

From the National Cancer Institute

In February 2003, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) convened a workshop of over 100 of the world’s leading experts who study pregnancy and breast cancer risk. Workshop participants reviewed existing population-based, clinical, and animal studies on the relationship between pregnancy and breast cancer risk, including studies of induced and spontaneous abortions. They concluded that having an abortion or miscarriage does not increase a woman’s subsequent risk of developing breast cancer. A summary of their findings, titled Summary Report: Early Reproductive Events and Breast Cancer Workshop, can be found at http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/ere-workshop-report.

NCI regularly reviews and analyzes the scientific literature on many topics, including various risk factors for breast cancer. Considering the body of literature that has been published since 2003, when NCI held this extensive workshop on early reproductive events and cancer, the evidence overall still does not support early termination of pregnancy as a cause of breast cancer. To view regular updates on this topic, please go to http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/breast/HealthProfessional/page2#Section_280.

So having an abortion does NOT cause mental problems or increase your chances of developing breast cancer as some anti-choice propaganda states.

After being brutally raped no woman should be forced by a repressive government to carry the fetus of her rapist to term. No woman should have to sacrifice her physical or mental health in order to carry a fetus to term. A woman who is unable to support a child or who does not wish to have one should not be forced to carry an unwanted fetus to term.

If the anti-choice crowd truly cared about women and their off spring they would

Provide free health care to all women and their children.
Provide free day care so women could continue their schooling or seek employment.
Provide free housing/reduced housing to low income women and their children
Provide free nutritious food to women and their children.
Value Motherhood and acknowledge the contribution Mothers make to society.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ January

2011-01-28T20:13:00.000-06:00

A Nose for Justice by Rita Mae Brown - (Thumbs down) I found this book tedious. There are several important social issues mentioned in the book the main one being water, how we use it and who has the right to control it (water rights) and the other being The Fly Girls (Women Airforce Service Pilots) who are still considered civilians and therefore not entitled to the pay and benefits given to the men who served in WWII. Ms Brown's desire to educate us on these issues interrupted the plot. She also had a lot of extraneous characters who were not necessary to the plot and did not spend much time on character development. And as a dog lover I found her use of King (German Shepherd mix) and Baxter (wire-haired dachshund) troubling. I just hope if any dog haters read the book they will remember this is a work of FICTION.
Night Shield by Nora Roberts - Boyd Fletcher busted 13 year old Jonah Blackhawk for running an unlicensed gambling establishment, but instead of sending him to juvie, Boyd took an interest and turned Jonah's life around. Now a successful businessman with his own chain of clubs Jonah will do anything for Boyd. Including allowing Allison Fletcher to work undercover in his club, but Jonah never planned to fall for the charming cop.
Night Moves by Nora Roberts - Maggie moves into a fixer upper in a rural area and hires Cliff Delaney to help with the landscaping. Everything is going great until a skeleton is discovered when Cliff digs out a gully on the property to create a pond.
A Place to Call Home by Deborah Smith ~ you can read my book review here. Excellent book I highly recommend it.
Bad Blood by John Sandford - When Bobby Tripp discovers who murdered his friend Kelly Baker, he takes matters into his own hands and kills Jacob Flood. But before he can reveal why Deputy Crocker kills him. Before Deputy Crocker can be questioned it appears he committed suicide but Virgil Flowers suspects he was murdered. Soon Flowers begins to suspect the deaths are connected to "The Church" (World of the Spirit) all the victims except Tripp attended.
Storm Prey - When the leader of a motorcycle gang plots to rob the hospital pharmacy with one of the doctors he never imagined that one of the gang would accidentally kick one of the pharmacy workers to death, or that his brother would be spotted by Weather. In an attempt to limit the number of people who can tie him to the robbery he hires a skinhead to take out two of the robbers and Weather. Now Lucas and Virgil are on his trail, but the body count just keeps getting higher.
The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott
Happy Ever After by Nora Roberts - Parker's plans for her life go out the window when she fall for bad boy Malcolm Kavanaugh, but then she realizes he is just what she wants.
Animal Magnetism by Rita Mae Brown (autobiography) - An amusing look at her life. I doubt I will read any more of her work. I just don't like her writing style.
The Freemasons by Jasper Ridley - Enjoyed the book. You can read my notes here.
Dead or Alive by Tom Clancy - an enjoyable yarn although the book is rift with errors. Mainly using the wrong persons name. I am also miffed that he unnecessarily killed off one of the good guys.

Kids & Swings

2011-01-27T10:36:00.000-06:00

When my kids were little they loved playing on their swing set. If you have young kids and are looking for a swing set check out CSN Stores, Swingsets and More.com they also have bikes, trampolines, slides and lots of other things for you to check out.

The Inheritance by Louisa May Alcott

2011-01-19T16:02:00.001-06:00

Written in Boston when Alcott was only seventeen, Alcott's first novel shows her promise as an author. The heroine of the book, Edith, is a noble lady living as a governess with Lady Hamilton and her family. The hero, Lord Percy, is an English gentleman who recognizes Edith's noble character in spite of her poverty. He of course falls deeply in love with her, but believing she will not marry him because of the differences in their stations resigns himself not to speak of his love. Conniving Lady Ida attempts to discredit Edith in order to win Lord Percy for herself, then a mysterious stranger arrives with documents that change Edith from a penniless governess into a wealthy heiress.

A Place to Call Home by Deborah Smith ~ Book Review

2011-01-10T07:59:00.004-06:00

I believe this book has a place in Classic Literature, so I am including it in my list of books for the Classics 2011 Reading Challenge. A Place to Call Home is about one boy's search for a home and family of his own and his enduring love for the girl who gave it to him.

The book opens with five year old Claire Maloney defending 10 year old Roanie Sullivan against the unjust accusations of her cousin Carlton. Related to half the town and the product of the two oldest Southern Families joining together Claire is the acknowledged princess of the town, while Roanie is an outcast, son of the town drunk. When Claire's family takes the young boy in, it is a dream come true for Roanie, but when the family he loves sends him away his heart is broken along with Claire's. Vowing never to forgive her family for sending Roanie away Claire leaves home after college and finds work as a reporter, until a tragic accident forces her back home.

For twenty years Claire has wondered what happened to Roan, now he is back in town for her and confronting the family that sent him away as a young boy.

Claire: My horror was that no one would say a word, that this was beyond words.

For twenty years Roan has kept a Maloney family secret that threatens the family he holds dear. Clair has to find a way to heal the scars from the past so everyone can move forward together as a family or choose between Roan and her family.

This book tears at your heart strings and has you laughing one moment and crying the next. For anyone who grew up in a small Southern town the foibles of the town will be all to familiar. Smith captures the charm of the South and the enduring love of Family in her novel.

Getting started on The 2011 Classics Reading Challenge

2011-01-02T17:24:00.002-06:00

Aesop - I love Aesop's Fables if you haven't read them I encourage you to do so.

Louisa May Alcott - I have read Little Women, Little Men & Jo's Boys. Since I enjoyed them I shall choose one or more of her books I haven't read for the 2011 Challenge.

I loved Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy and may look into reading more of his work.

I didn't care for The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka.

I am joining The Classics 2011 Reading Challenge

2011-01-02T16:54:00.002-06:00

This sounds like a fun challenge and one I should enjoy. For more information click here. At least some of the books I read must qualify as classics right?

You can find some authors here and a classic reading list here.

Alasandra's Reading List ~ December

2010-12-30T01:58:00.151-06:00

Third Degree by Greg Iles ~ First Warren Shields finds out he has an inoperable brain tumor and will die at 37. All he wants is to provide for his wife (Laurel) and two kids. Then in an attempt to warn him that his partner is framing him for Medicare Fraud, Nell sends an email telling him to look for something hidden in his home and he discovers his wife in cheating on him. When Laurel refuses to tell him her lover's name he snaps and holds his family hostage. Meanwhile the lover rethinks his decision to stay with his wife and kids and makes a desperate attempt to save Laurel. Terrible book the one decent person in the whole book dies while the cheaters get to live happily ever after, after destroying his life.
Savor the Moment by Nora Roberts ~ Book Three in the Bride Quartet. Laurel convinces Del he should stop treating her like his sister.
Don't Blink by James Patterson & Howard Roughan - Nick Daniels will do anything in order to report THE TRUTH. So when he is conveniently seated next to mob lawyer Vincent Marcozza when Torenzi kills him, he is elated to discover he has Torenzi's whispered words on tape naming mob boss Eddie Pinero as the man who ordered the hit on tape. But then he starts to wonder if his being there and getting "the evidence" on tape wasn't just a little too convenient. Now somebody wants him dead before he finds out the answer. Can he stay alive longer enough to get the story.
The Sister by Poppy Adams - I didn't care for this book. The story is told from 70 year old Ginny's point of view. When her sister Vivi returns to the ancestral home after a absence of almost 50 years Ginny begins to recall things from their past. One gets a sense right away that there is something not right with Ginny (In an online discussion group several people speculated Ginny had Asperger's Syndrome from the information provided in the book). There is her obsession with time, her lack of emotion, the way she refers to her parents by their first names (Clive and Maude), Maude's belief that Ginny was responsible for Vivi's fall from the bell tower (a fall that destroyed Vivi's ability to have children), Maude's accusation that Ginny ruined Maude's life, as well as the mysterious Dr Moyse's interest in Ginny. Once Vivi returns home she seems determined to tell Ginny some family secret and asserts their parents had no right to keep Ginny's condition from her. Finally forced to confront the way her sister used her to have a baby and then forgot the baby when it didn't survive Ginny poisons Vivi. The narrative is disjointed and none of the questions (Did Ginny push Vivi off the bell tower? Who killed Maude? What is wrong with Ginny) raised are answered.
The Devil in The White City by Erik Larson - you can read my book review here. I highly recommend this book. (Non-Fiction)
Cross Fire by James Patterson - Alex Cross and Bree Stone say I do. Kyle Craig is loose and out to kill Alex. Agent Max Siegel works closely with Alex to bring down the Numbers Killer as well as the Patriot Snipers. Fast paced, the only question is will Kyle Craig succeed in his quest to kill Alex. After all he is closer then even Alex imagines.
Nightshade by Nora Roberts - Colt Nightshade is looking for his friends daughter who is being held by some unsavory characters who make "adult movies". His best shot at finding Liz is to work with detective Althea Grayson, but will she cooperate.
Night Moves by Nora Roberts - Ry Piasecki carries Natalie Fletcher through a burning building but can he mend her broken heart.
Road of the Patriarch by R. A. Salvatore - After winning Artemis Entreri's heart Calihye attempts to kill him. Jarlaxle's plots gets himself, Entreri and the dwarf Athrogate banished from the Bloodstone Lands. Artemis returns to his childhood home and confronts is past. Artemis chooses to part company with Jarlaxle and Athrogate and to return to Calimport and Dwahvel.
Turning Angel by Greg Iles - When Husband Stealing S*** Kate Townsend is murdered Penn Gage sets out to prove his childhood friend isn't the killer even though he was having an affair with the underage girl. Unfortunately for Penn the real killer is willing to kill again and again to keep his secret.
Tripwire by Lee Child - A dying Leon Garber promises the Hobies he will find out what happened to their son who disappeared in Vietnam. Running out of time he hires a detective to find Reacher. But Victor Truman Hobie doesn't want to be found and he is willing to kill to keep his identity a secret. But Reacher is willing to die to save Jodi Garber (Leon's daughter).
Daniel X Demons and Druids by James Patterson (Young Adult/Teen) - well there weren't any Druids in the book. But Daniel did travel back in time and meet the young boy Arthur (you know King Arthur) and Merlin (who is another alien from Daniel's planet). Merlin & Daniel join forces to defeat Beta. Who knew Stonehenge would prove so useful. Daniel's usual pals are behaving a bit unusual to Daniel's surprise. Hints that future books will reveal what is going on with Dana and Willy.

Alasandra's Easy Christmas Cookies

2010-12-29T16:37:00.000-06:00

These are perfect for making with young children.

2 (16 oz) packages Candiquick Vanilla
1 package Oreo Cool Mint Cookies (green centers)
5 peppermint candy canes crushed

Following directions on Candiquick package melt one of the Candiquick packages then add half of the crushed candy canes to mixture and stir well. Dip one cookie at a time into melted Candiquick until completely covered and place on wax paper until Candiquick hardens. Repeat with the next package of Candiquick.

You can melt both packages at the same time but you have to work really fast to prevent the Candiquick from getting too hard.

Alasandra's Bayou Bake

2010-12-29T16:23:00.000-06:00

1 package 8 oz. cream cheese (light), cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1 lb. cooked gumbo shrimp
2 cans (6 oz) crab meat, drained
1 can heart healthy cream of mushroom soup
3/4 cup brown rice
1 jar (4 1/2 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon chipotle pepper
3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup butter flavored crackers crushed (about 24)

In a small saucepan cook and stir the cream cheese and butter over low heat until melted and smooth; set aside.

In a large skillet mix together the shrimp, crab, soup, rice, mushrooms, garlic and pepper add the reserved cream cheese mixture.

Transfer to a greased 2 quart baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over mixture and top with cracker crumbs Bake uncovered at 350 for 25 minutes or until bubbly.

Alasandra's Turkey Bundles

2010-12-29T16:08:00.000-06:00

1 package turkey breast cutlets (4 to a package)
2 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed
4 slices smoked mozzarella cheese
1 can of sliced pears (light)
1/2 cups boysenberry preserves
1 teaspoon cider vinegar

On wax paper roll a pastry sheet out cut in half and place 1 turkey cutlet in the middle of each half. Top with cheese and with a pear slice and seal pastry. Repeat.

Place bundles on a greased baking sheet seam side down. Bake at 400 for 20 minutes or until golden brown and a meat thermometer reads 170.

I a small sauce pan combine preserves and vinegar. Cook on low heat stirring constantly until preserves or melted. Serve with bundles.

Makes four

Alasandra's Turkey Cutlets with Pecan Crust

2010-12-29T16:00:00.001-06:00

1/3 cup flour
2 eggs
3 Tablespoons Chipotle Mustard
2/3 cups dry bread crumbs
2/3 cup ground pecans
1 package turkey breast cutlets
1/4 cup olive oil

Place flour in shallow bowl.

Whisk eggs and mustard together in another shallow bowl.

Mix bread crumbs and pecans together in another shallow bowl. Coat cutlets in flour, then egg mixture then pecan mixture place in the skillet with heated oil and fry for 5 minutes on each side on medium heat or until juices run clear.

Serves four.

My Review of Butterfly Meadow Bunny Sugar

2010-12-26T06:53:00.000-06:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

This sweet-as-can-be bunny doubles as a sugar bowl. Sculpted flowers, painted by hand, decorate the bowl.

Features:

Bunny sugar bowl
Butterfly Meadow collection
Crafted of fine porcelain
Dishwasher safe
Overall dimensions: ...

Cute Gift

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 12/13/2010

I gave this as a gift to my Mother and she loves it. It is very cute and unique and will go with a wide variety of China patterns. She likes to decorate for Easter and this has become a favorite piece. I recently got her the matching creamer.

(legalese)

Cooking With Alasandra ~ Jonathan’s Pumpkin Cookies

2010-12-15T20:23:00.002-06:00

Combine & Set Aside:

4 cups self -rising flour
2 cups oatmeal
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Cream:
1 ½ cups softened butter
1 cup sugar
2 cups brown sugar

Add:
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 can (16 oz.) pumpkin

Add flour & oatmeal mixture, mix well after adding each ingredient. Drop by rounded teaspoon on lightly greased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes. Makes 8-10 dozen 2” cookies. Top with Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 lb. box of confectioner’s sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons milk

Beat cream cheese until very soft. Gradually add confectioner’s sugar, vanilla and milk. Beat until mixture is smooth and of good spreading consistency. Use original cream cheese only.

Alasandra's Cream Cheese Walnut cookies

2010-12-15T12:21:00.000-06:00

1 cup sugar
3 oz. cream cheese
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 cup butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup walnuts

Preheat oven to 350. In large bowl, with mixer at low speed beat sugar with butter and cream cheese until blended. Increase speed to high; beat until creamy about 2 minutes, occasionally scraping bowl with rubber spatula. Beat in vanilla. With spoon stir in flour and walnuts just until blended.

With lightly floured hands roll dought into 1 inch balls. Place balls 2 inches apart on un-greased large cookie sheet ( I line mine with wax paper or use my stoneware) With floured fingertips flatten balls into 1 1/4 inch rounds.

Bake cookies 14 minutes until golden. Let cookies remain on cookie sheet on wire rack 2 minutes to cool slightly. Store cookies in tightly covered container up to 2 weeks. Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

Makes a great Christmas Gift

Sean's Birthday ~ Salmon and Shrimp with Garlic Rice

2010-12-15T12:10:00.001-06:00

5 tablespoons butter
1 1/2 cups half and half cream
1/2 teaspoon ground Cajun Mustard
Dash cayenne pepper
1 1/2 pounds salmon fillets
1 cup brown rice, uncooked
3 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/4 teaspoon dill weed
1/2 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
minced garlic
2 cups chicken broth

In a large saucepan melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour until smooth; gradually add cream. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add 1 cup cheese, mustard, dill and cayenne; stir until cheese is melted. Remove from the heat; stir in shrimp.

Pat salmon dry; place in a greased 12 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish. Pour shrimp mixture over salmon. Top with remaining cheese. Bake uncovered at 400 for 25-30 minutes or until fish flakes.

Meanwhile in a saucepan saute garlic in remaining butter until tender. Add broth bring to a boil add rice and cook according to package directions. Yield 6 servings.

My Review of Hummingbird Nature Hook

2010-12-13T06:37:00.003-06:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Garden accent items are second to none. The handcrafted detail and durable paints make these items decorative and functional, lasting a lifetime. Add a touch of elegance to any patio or garden by choosing one of the many designs and items available.

Unique Gift Brings Smiles

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 12/13/2010

I ordered 4 of the Hummingbird Nature Hooks to hang on the Hummingbird Cottage. They are very attractive and add a unique touch. I am very thankful I had the opportunity to review this product.

The Hummingbird Nature Hook

Tags: Picture of Product, Using Product

The Hummingbird Cottage

Tags: Using Product

Visit Flowers on Friday to see my original review of this product and more pictures of the Hummingbird Cottage.

My Review of Cornerstone Wall Lantern in White

2010-12-13T06:26:00.003-06:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Features:

One light wall lantern
Cornerstone collection
White finish
Clear seed glass shade
Transitional style
For outdoor use
Assembly required

Specifications:

Nuvo provides one year warranty

You Light Up My Life

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 12/13/2010

I purchased 4 of these lights to go on the exterior of my house and they have really improved the house's appearance. They look attractive and provide good lighting. According to my husband they were easy to install. I received a credit toward the purchase of this product.

The House Looks So Much Better

Tags: Using Product

You can read my in depth review and see better pictures of this product at my post CSN Stores to The Rescue.

My Review of Butterfly Meadow Kitten Cookie Jar

2010-12-13T06:14:00.003-06:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

A sculpted kitty forms the lid atop this charming cookie jar. The bottom bears a sculpted tulip motif.

Features:

Kitten cookie jar
Butterfly Meadow collection
Crafted of fine porcelain
Dishwasher safe
Overall dimensions: 11...

Gorgeous Cookie Jar

By Alasandra from Ocean Springs, MS on 12/13/2010

I have added it to my cookie jar collection and I have to say it is my very favorite. It is a really pretty cookie jar and with it's pretty pastel colors it is sure to look good in every home. I was given the opportunity to review this product.

You can see the Butterfly Meadow Kitten Cookie Jar as well as additional cookie jars in my collection here.

Lagniappe Restaurant in Ocean Springs

2010-12-11T21:19:00.001-06:00

I had the chance to attend a Christmas Party at Lagniappe. The Restaurant is inside an old house and it was beautifully decorated for Christmas. The food was delicious. They had a lovely buffet. My favorite dish was the.............

Father George's "Favorite Seafood Sin" This is our most popular dish, named for a local pastor who adores it!A combination of shrimp, crabmeat and crawfish tails in a SPICY cheddarcheese sauce on top of a thin layer of pasta and baked to perfection

It was really yummy and I would love to have it again soon. I also enjoyed the very cute and extremely tasty red velvet cookies with cream cheese frosting. I am hoping to have the opportunity to eat there again in the near future. I meet Patsy and she is really sweet and works overtime to make sure everything is very "special". I had a lovely time.

Baked Turkey with Rice

2010-11-30T12:16:00.004-06:00

4 turkey breast
1 cup instant rice
1 cup broth (low sodium)
1 can diced tomatoes (no salt)

Put one cup rice in bottom of dish then add broth, put turkey breast on top. Top with diced tomatoes. Cover and bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Alasandra's Place

Is Valentines a Commercial Scam?

What A Crock of BS

Link to some Great Celtic Music

The Pink Goliath Falls

Eradicate, Treat, Stop, Prevent Breast Cancer just don't Cure it

The Pink Ribbon Lie

Alasandra's Reading List ~ January

Enemy in Blue, Debut Novel of Derek Blass

Check Out The Drifting Bookworm

Would the Religious Right Elect the Founding Fathers?

Jackson County, MS Aniamal Shelter

Stop SOPA

Spinach Salmon Bundles

If you kill your spouse in Mississippi just ask Barbour for a pardon

Attention Book Lovers

Alasandra's Reading List ~ December

Beau Rivage Buffet a Waste of Money

Merry Christmas

Anti-Choice Kristen Walker Bashes Celebraties for Supporting Cancer Screening for Women and Other Women's Health Issues

What Does Selling Merchandise Have to Do With Christmas?

News Radio ~ Herman Cain

NewsRadio 104.9 shared a link.

Alasandra's Reading List ~November

Gina Miller is an Idiot

Thin Skinned Conservatives

NewsRadio 104.9Sylvester Is Stepping Down....if he hadn't caused so much damage to the country I'd kind of like to see him stay....he's so much fun to make fun of.

Thanksgiving @ Home

Feminism: Not a Naughty Word: Paternalistic Pharmacists (and Politics)

Love This Post

Sour Grapes: Wildmon Chastises Mississippi Voters @ Deep-Fried Freethinkers.

Why the Wingnuts are so Nutty

Kip Gregory is a Jerk

Vote NO on 26

Dona Nobis Pacem

Don't Let Out of State Special Interest Use Mississippi as A Battle Ground

Alasandra's Reading List ~ October

Alasandra's Seafood Sin

Alasandra's Pumpkin Walnut Cake

Bishop's Statement, He Will Not Support Proposition #26

Take a bold stand for Women's Reproductive Health at the polls in November

LiveStrong Slide Show

Livestrong

Alasandra's Reading List ~ September

Do you want Clean Air?

TRAIN Act To Limit Clean Air Protection Passes The House

No on 26

Alasandra's Reading List ~ August

Alasandra's Reading List ~ July

Have you voted today

Half Shell Oyster House

Kenmore Elite Oasis HE is a LEMON

Investigation Concerning Problems With - Kenmore Elite Oasis Top Load Washing Machine

Alasandra's Reading List ~ June

Bee - a - thon 2011

Vyckie Garrison states ultra-demanding lifestyle of Quiverfull is a recipe for abuse, neglect, burnout and insanity.

Grilled Chicken Pitas with Cucumber Sauce

For my Love

A slap in the face of all women

Alasandra's Reading List ~ May

I am Married to the Moon Pie Guy

Interesting

Automobile Insurance

Alasandra's Reading List ~ April

Alasandra's Reading List ~ March (Haven't been reading much)

My Review of Butterfly Meadow 7 - Piece Pasta / Salad Set

My Review _ Hummingbird Feeder

My Review

My Review

Love My New Shoes

I was there

Alasandra's Reading List ~ February

Disappointed

Outraged!

Dinning with Alasandra

The sorry you weren't really raped ~ Republican Bill

Public Radio Under Attack

Dinning with Alasandra

Rosemary's Baby by Ira Levin

If you need a laugh

NewsRadio 104.9
Sylvester Is Stepping Down....if he hadn't caused so much damage to the country I'd kind of like to see him stay....he's so much fun to make fun of.