science project ideas

I need your help. It's science project time. I need ideas for a 6th grade student project. I want to avoid the suggested sites since most other students will be searching them for ideas. It is recommended that students topic the project in earth science.

Last year, we (niece and I) worked a project on acids, bases, neutrals. She was graded a high A, of course with her techy aunt.

So blog fam, please submit some suggestions, she has to submit her project proposal on Monday.

Thanks
Sista GP

children promoting candidates

Does a parent have the right to indoctrinate their political views onto their children? At what point/age does a child get to have his or her own views?

If you received a letter from your child's (private) school requesting your permission to allow your child to participate in a campaigning session on a street corner during a school day (8AM-9AM). Would you give permisssion?

Etiquette for Nov. 5th

I was sent a list for etiquette for Nov. 5th if a particular candidate won the election for President of the United States.

The list was humorous, so I wrote a list for those in case your candidate did not win.

I have posted both lists:
If your candidate wins
1) No crying, hugging or shouting "Thank you, Lord" - at least not in public.
2) No high-fives; at least not unless the area is clear and there are no witnesses.
3) No laughing at the McCain/Palin supporters.
4) No calling in sick on November 5th. They'll get nervous if too many of us don't show up.
5) We're allowed to give each other knowing winks or nods in passing. Just try to keep from grinning too hard.
6) No singing loudly, "We've Come This Far By Faith" (it WILL be acceptable to hum softly).
7) No bringing barbeque ribs or fried chicken for lunch in the company lunchroom for at least a week (no chitterlings AT ALL! This may make us seem too ethnic.)
8) No leaving Kool-aid packages at the water fountain.
9) No Cupid Shuffle during breaks (this could indicate a little too much excitement.)
10) Please no Moving On Up music (we are going to try to remain humble.)* *
11) And number 12. No reciting The Color Purple…”all my life, I had to fight”……

If your candidate did not win
1) No rioting, don't beat up anybody (Roots, 1977)
2) Don't claim foulplay, if you haven't done your own research
3) Don't rely on "Joe's website" for all your information
4) Don't rely on just CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, etc. to supply your knowledge of what's happening in the world
5) Can't watch C-SPAN live? watch recorded sessions online
6) Got XM? listen to C-SPAN Radio
7) Got internet? a boatload of informational resources available
8) Be aware, video clips do not tell the entire story
9) Create your own opinion; don't let others make it for you
10) Continue to be active and watchful of politics in all levels of government

pro-life...pro-choice...how about prohibition

For years I have had issues with many Pro-life/Pro-Choice demonstrations. Floating signs, chants, marches, and even violence. Why not deal with the cause of the pregnancies in question?

resulting from assault:
How about free anonymous counseling for individuals to deal with the desires/urges of physical abuse? There should be a focus on rehabilitation rather than increased incarceration of offenders. What solution does just time give?
Eliminate the assault, eliminates the result.

resulting from underage ignorance:
Parents, I mean real ones, even though you may think that your teen, or even, pre-teen child is not old enough to know how babies are made really made, wake up!!! Talk to them. They may know more than you think. It is better for you to tell them rather than letting them learn from experimentation.
Teach your child that actions have consequences. Let your child know that what he/she does can have an affect on the rest of their lives.
Also parents, remember actions speak louder than words. If your child knows you are running through many men/women/both, they will think it is ok for them to do the same. How can you tell them different. You are their most influential teacher.

resulting from adult stupidity:
Now there is only one form of contraceptive that is 100%. For all others, there is a chance of failure. If you are not willing or capable of dealing with a pregnancy, mentally, physically, financially, or socially, don't do the deed.
If a contraceptive labeling states 99.99% prevention, that only means that if used according to their testing, it should work, but if it does fail, the manufacturer can't be blamed.

Condoms burst, pills reduced effectiveness by antibiotics, depo shots 3% failure first year, lost IUD (yeah that's me, but no pregnancy Thank God)...things happen
If a method fails for you, why continue to use it? I've known several women who have multiple conceptions while on the shot. Why continue to rely on it? Why not use a backup method?

I am not claiming to be perfect. I just feel more thought, research, and action need to be taken for all of us.

What are your thoughts?

Smokey says it all...

things happen for a reason

We may not understand why events occur when they do. So many of them shape our lives in preparation for what we must one day face and conquer. We must accept them as blessings to a more divine end.

For two years non-continuously starting the summer 2006, we searched for a new home. We dealt with non-responsive realtors, over-priced resale homes, non-spacious new construction homes, and many homes in fair to poor conditions. Twice invested in home inspections. I say invested because critical problems were found in each.

When son started kindergarten his behavior problems occupied much of my time, the home search time was drastically reduced. A year later we started to actively search again when a home was offered for sale on the same street as my mom. This sparked out interest again. Eventually we found a new realtor who worked with us until the end.

We never suspected to live so far from town (job, school); we sought a location where hubby could park the tractor part of his truck (over the road driver). We found a lot in a great neighborhood close to what is known to be best elementary school in county. Two months after moving in, hubby was offered an opportunity to make shuttle runs and to be home daily instead of bi-weekends. He took it.

Now, as of last Friday, unfortunate circumstances has led my niece to be living with us until at least to the end of the school year. It is a true blessing that we are able to provide her a stable, productive environment where she can make achievements in academics, physical and emotional health, and personal well-being.

We soared over a major hurdle already, fractions. She started with a frown and "I hate fractions!" to a glowing grin when she finally understood. She is as proud of herself as I am of her.

There is not much concern for the kids behavior towards each other. Since both have had limited interactions with their half-siblings, they have always treated each other as such.

It is amazing to me how the daily occupants of this household has doubled in just three months time. Adjustments will need to be made from all of us, we are willing to give this honest try.

Not sure how much time I will have for blogging, but I suspect writing, which is new to me, will be my vice for peace of mind.

So the saying is true, "Things Do Happen For A Reason"

biological nail color

I had planned a lengthly satirical post of the discovery of an alternative to nail polish. Because of my normal activities, I rarely wear anything other than clear. I hate when polish chips so easily on my nails. So a discovery of a long lasting nail color that doesn't chip or flake, has no fumes and no need to spend time at a nail salon would be a monumental discovery that deserves Nobel Prize nomination.

Earlier today, hubby and I were loading railroad ties onto a truck when one slipped and smashed the tip of the middle finger of my left hand. When the nail turned bright red, the thought of the post came to mind. But now, as it is late at night after I continued to load the rest of the ties, drove home, prepared dinner, put everyone to bed, reverted this blog to the previous template, and now write this post, my finger is almost purple, sore, and throbbing. No lengthy post tonight and maybe none for the next few days.

Although it is an interesting concept to generate the color under the nail instead of painting color on top. In this trial, it is tricky to not break any delicate finger bones and not have the "side effect" of throbbing pain.

More trials are necessary, are you interested?

blog trivia #1

A turtle walks in line

12 turtles are in front of him

3 turtles are behind him

How many turtles are in line?
What is the basis of your answer?

Obama channel, what's McCain's?

As I get caught up on my household duties after slacking for several days, here is a litte something to hold you over...


Hubby discovered the OBAMA channel (73) on DishNetwork the other day. Basically it is a replay of all the messages that have been playing over the past few months.

So I wondered, what would be McCain's channel?

How about Boomerang: (Bush's Policies) Right Back At'cha?

What do you think McCain's channel would be?

IT'S MY BIRTHDAY: fit at 40..one year goal

From Blog Pics

Every year for the past few years on my birthday I reflect on my accomplishments and seek new goals.

At 37, I started playing soccer (adult women); it was the first time ever playing any sport.

At 38, I completed the first full draft of a romance novel, my first serious writing effort.

Now at 39, my focus is on health; one of my declarations. For several years I have struggled with my weight and have tried several different "plans". I've come to understand that dieting (controlled eating plan) alone is not enough. I need to commit to a regular exercise routine. I must receive adequate rest and maintain a stable stress level.

Even though I started working towards this goal weeks ago, today is the official kickoff. The first day towards a priority goal to be a healthier me.

One year from today, hopefully sooner, I plan to post a picture of the NEW me wearing the dress pictured above. The dress is around here somewhere. The photo was the second and last time I ever worn that dress.

I know that picture was taken prior to pregnancy, prior to marriage, months before meeting hubby, but I made it half-way there before (1999) so there is no doubt that I can be...

...FIT AT 40...SEE YOU THEN! more like YOU SEE ME THEN!

i'm no Michelle or Coretta

I maintain full-time employment to contribute to our household.
I prepare our meals to sustain our dietary needs.
I perform the duties of maintaining the cleanliness of our home.
I nurture our child with all I have to give as a mother.
I satisfy your physical needs with all I have to give as a wife.

I do this all for the love and sake of our family.

Why do you need to compare me to Michelle Obama?
Why do you need to compare me to Coretta Scott King?

They are exceptional women. They are who they are because they follow no other.

Look at me for who I am and what I do.

I am no Super Woman, I am not Every Woman, I am me.

Dr. Phil's Test, I'm...44

I received this at work, not sure if this is really a Dr. Phil's test, but it is interesting.

What is your score?


The following is pretty accurate and it only takes a few minutes.
Don't peek, but begin the test as you scroll down and answer.

Answers are for who you are now and not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready.

This is a "real" test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and in their prospective employees. It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question.

Ready?
Begin.

1. When do you feel your best...
A) in the morning
B) during the afternoon and early evening
C) late at night

2. You usually walk...
A) fairly fast, with long steps
B) fairly fast, with little steps
C) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
D) less fast, head down
E) very slowly

3. When talking to people you...
A) stand with your arms folded
B) have your hands clasped
C) have one or both your hands on your hips
D) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
E) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with...
A) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
B) your legs crossed
C) your legs stretched out or straight
D) one leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with...
A) big appreciated laugh
B) a laugh, but not a loud one
C) a quiet chuckle
D) a sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...
A) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
B) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
C) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...
A) welcome the break
B) feel extremely irritated
C) vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most...
A) Red or orange
B) black
C) yellow or light blue
D) green
E) dark blue or purple
F) white
G) brown or gray

9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are...
A) stretched out on your back
B) stretched out face down on your stomach
C) on your side, slightly curled
D) with your head on one arm
E) with your head under the covers

10. You often dream that you are...
A) falling
B) fighting or struggling
C) searching for something or somebody
D) flying or floating
E) you usually have dreamless sleep
F) your dreams are always pleasant

POINTS:

1.  (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6 
2.  (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1 
3.  (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6 
4.  (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1 
5.  (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2 
6.  (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2 
7.  (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4 
8.  (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1 
9.  (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1 
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1 

Now add up the total number of points.

OVER 60 POINT: Others see you as someone they should 'handle with care'. You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you.

51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality, a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once, someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting, someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding, someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you, realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.

21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions and who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well, know that you aren't.

What is your score?

mommy, you feel like you're going to have a baby

This is not what you want to hear at the end of the first day you got up at 5 AM and completed the 3 mile workout in "Walk Away the Pounds" by Leslie Sansome, worked all day, helped with homework, sorted bills and other papers, prepared dinner, reviewed spelling words with him and currently in the process of washing dishes.

It is understandable that kids say exactly what's on their minds and have not learned tact, but really, did he actually have to say it out loud?

I have been working out and eating healthier, but I have been looking for the MAJOR motivation to keep me on track. THIS WAS IT!!!

LET'S SEE WHAT HE SAYS BY CHRISTMAS!

seatbelts? mobile phone? what about pets?

You can get a traffic ticket by not wearing a seat belt. If you don't care to save your own life, by wearing a seat belt you have a better chance of not losing control of your vehicle in an accident. You at least have a chance to save another one's life.

You can get a traffic ticket by not securing young children in a safety seat or seat belt. If you do not care they they may become a projectile, others do.

From Blog Pics

You can get a traffic ticket if you cause an accident and it was discovered you were using a mobile phone at the time.

So if I am wrong for holding a phone to my ear with my shoulder, while maneuvering a coffee mug in my lap, at the same time shifting gears as I drive along I-75 at 80 mph without wearing a seat belt and having 4 children bouncing around unsecured in the backseat, WHY HAVEN'T I HEARD ANYTHING ABOUT PET OWNERS DRIVING WITH THEIR PET IN THEIR ARMS?

No matter how trained they are, dogs, cats, snakes, whatever, have their own minds. At any given moment, they can obstruct view, injure driver, leap onto steering wheel, or gear shift. Any number of mishaps can occur.

Don't they make travel cages and harnesses for use in vehicles?

I am not against pests, I mean pets.
I do not have any, my hubby and son are enough to handle.
It is just that if you take on the responsibility of mastering an animal, you should properly take care of it and do your best to protect it.

If you do not know what to do, Google It, call the pound, go to A Store for Dogs. Do something. Learn something.

Am I off base here?

would have been 77

As I unpacked yesterday in a urge to finally clear out boxes in my office. I opened a box of old books. I did not peruse them to see who they belonged to, but assumed they belonged to hubby since they were biblical study in nature.

After arriving from work, hubby looked at a few and said they were not his.

Puzzled, I opened one, Matthew Henry's COMMENTARY ON THE WHOLE BIBLE VOL. VI., and immediately saw my father's name and the address of his aunt's house. It is where he lived before he purchased the home for my mom a few months before they were married. This book was over 45 years old. The other addresses were my parents' first home and the address were I was raised.

Oddly, there was no copyright. I was able to find out that the original text was published in 1706. I am now intrigued. I have sent a message to the publising house. Hopefully someone will call me back.

Some of the other texts I found of his are ...
Bible Readings for the Home, 1949
James Moffatt, The Bible, A New Translation, several copyrights up to 1954
The Lost Books of the Bible, 1926

Now there were a few books that should belong to one of my brothers. I doubt they were apart of my father's collection and all of my old books and school texts have not been unpacked yet.

J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, PART ONE and PART TWO
Stephen Demko, Primer for Linear Algebra

Ironic or coincidental, books that will provide another perspective into my father's life, are found on his would have been 77th birthday.

Happy Birthday Dad!