Shays Mom

Deploying

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 03:05:00 +0000

Well, it is happening to me. I am going to be one of those parents who has a child serving in the military overseas. Shay received word that she will be deploying to Sather Air Base in Baghdad. She has to be there by Jan 15th so not sure when she has to leave or which route she is taking. Lots of things to find out and lots of things to do. I did find a website that helps me determine what time it is and what the weather is. Current local time in Baghdad. I guess I am going to have to blog more so I keep my sanity. I am very proud of her and I know she is going someplace that is very safe. But it does not keep me from being nervous. Keep with me on this journey.

It's only been 2 months

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 14:46:00 +0000

since I last blogged. Life is so busy and I feel like I don't have much to blog about. But I do update on facebook so pretty much anyone who would rad this blog already knows what I am doing because they are friends on facebook. Let's see, what have I done? Did I tell you that Shay and I went skydiving? Yup, sure did.

Out of the plane

Flying high

See the ground below?

And here is Shay's picture. For me it was a "Been there, done that" moment and I don't have to do it again. But it was something I have always wanted to do. Hubby was a saint and sat all day with us waiting.

I should probably give a puppy update. We had three puppies on May 4th. Well, Binde had the puppies. She was an excellent mom. We kept 2 of them and the third one (little girl) went to live with her daddies family. They are:

2 Stars Rolling Thunder (aka Boomer) & 2 Stars Simply Irresistable (aka Yummy)

We went to a B Match this weekend (Oct 18th). Yummy and Boomer got first in their class. Then they competed against each other for Best Jr Puppy. Boomer won. Then he competed against other Best Jr Puppies in the Non Sporting Group and he got a Group 4 (4th place). We are very pleased with the results of this breeding. Here are Boomers and Yummys ribbons.

I went to Seattle for a week in September. I attended my 30th High School Reunion and got to see my Shay Shay for the weekend. Then my plan was to train the rest of the week but I got sick so was only able to train a few times. But it was really nice to see my brother and friends that I have not seen for awhile. I will be back in Decemeber for the Black Belt Promotion. Wish me luck!

Did I tell you we got a new car? We had to because the Envoy did not have enough room to transport 5 dogs. I thought we would get another Town and Country van but we ended up getting the Ford Flex. I really like it. It is like a station wagon on steroids.

We sure do turn some heads when we are driving around. Still don't see too many of them on the road yet.

Well, that is about it for now. Maybe I will have something to write about later. I mean, we are going to Key West for Fantasy Fest over Halloween Weekend. Should be fun!

Wednesday Hero

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 10:00:00 +0000

Pfc. Tavonte Johnson

Pfc. Tavonte Johnson, a field radio operator with Headquarters Company, 7th Marine Regiment, provides security after a simulated attack by a suicide bomber on Aug. 8, as part of 7th Marine Regiment’s pre-deployment training exercise.

Photo courtesy of United States Marine Corps

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

I WON, I WON, I WON

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:26:00 +0000

Ok, I have been shamed into posting an update here. I know I have been an absent blogger and I apologize to any (if I have any) loyal followers for not posting anything in over a month. But I actually have something to post about so here goes.

I WON, I WON, I WON!!!!

I won yesterdays prize package over at Wonderful World of Weiners. I am so excited! Go see what I won. It is this really cool candleabra, $50 Starbucks, a Donor Pin, and some artwork. Hallie is doing a wondeful thing and this is just icing on the cake for those that donated to her cause. Thanks Hallie!!

I will try to put a decent post together for you all. Until then....I WON, I WON, I WON

Destin Vacation Pictures

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 18:27:00 +0000

So I have been quite busy the last week since returning from vacation. It is that 4 letter word that takes up so much of my time....WORK. Well, that and puppies. You cannot believe how much time taking care of 3 little puppies takes.

I wanted to share with you some of the pictures that Lisa from My New Thing To Do took of ouyr family during our vacation. Check them out and leave Lisa comments about how great a job she did. Did I tell you how hot it was? Even at 9am? Well, it was. Thanks Lisa. We can't wait to see the rest of them.

Party and Vacation

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:31:00 +0000

So I have been on vacation for the past week and had a wonderful time. The first thing I did was fly to Portland, Oregon and met my daughter at the airport. She flew in from Spokane, Washington. We had a 40th Anniversary Banquet on Saturday. It was wonderful. We got to see some old friends and dance and sing (karaoke). I have not seen Shay since last November, except on Skype and it is just not the same. Here are a few pictures from the event. I will make comments where I can. Some don't need it. Enjoy

Shay and me with my brother Jay

Shay with Sensei Marta

Me with some of the other black belt ladies from my dojo in Washington.

Shay and me with Sensei Chris

Me and Shay with some more black belts from Washington. Yes, they are black belts and yes, she is pregnant. And she could probably still kick our asses.

Me with Sensei Mark

Here I am singing Reba McEntire "Take it Back" and Sensei Cameron was willing to be my subject.

I will try to get some of the vacation pictures posted within the next few days. I also can't wait to see the ones from Lisa Jobes. Lisa and her husband Scott drove down and did our family pictures for us. You guys will be impressed I am sure.

Later

Puppies, Puppies, Puppies

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:07:00 +0000

These first shots are of the boy

These are of Little Girl

These are of Big Girl

I know, I don't have as many of the big girl as I do of the other two. She is on the shy side and isn't as outgoing as the other two. But I am working on her. She is getting more confident each time she comes out to play.

They walk among us

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 26 May 2009 20:21:00 +0000

No comments from me. I will leave those to your imagination. If you want to share via comments please feel free to do so. Enjoy (or not)

HSUS - Do Not Support Them

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Fri, 22 May 2009 12:24:00 +0000

Feel free to share this information with all of your blogging friends. You can bet I am and I will also post it on FB. We have to stop these money hungry thieves. That is exactly what they are, thieves. They are taking our money making us think they are giving to local entities and then they keep it for themselves.

http://www.porkmag.com/news_editorial.asp?pgID=720&ed_id=7622

A Not-so-Glowing Report for HSUS
By Marlys Miller Thursday, May 21, 2009
The Human Society of the United States likes it when the public ties the group to local Humane Society animal shelters. The implication is if you give money to HSUS, some of that money trickles down to local Humane Societies too, and everyone feel good about helping homeless and abused cats and dogs.Well, HSUS is not that kind-hearted. The entity's funding efforts go into HSUS coffers and that's pretty much it; and among the organization's top self-proclaimed priorities is to focus on, some might say end, animal agriculture.Last week, Channel 2 Action News in Atlanta shone the media spotlight on the HSUS — and the animal rights' group didn’t fare so well when they didn’t control the message or the camera’s direction.Atlanta reporter, Amanda Rosseter, traced for viewers where the organization’s vast donations go, explaining that little of the millions of dollars given to HSUS each year end up at local animal shelters. (The HSUS 2007 annual report indicates $120 million in revenue.)Yet, HSUS is adept at generating media attention for animal rescues. For example, this week a animal "shelter" in southern Wisconsin, which contracted with a local humane society to care for stray cats, dogs and other animals was raided for neglect and abuse. Volunteers helping with the horrendous scene included folks wearing HSUS logos, implying HSUS funding support as well.The Channel 2 Action News Story sources told the reporter that HSUS is very successful at using misleading tactics to raise funds. Meanwhile, that same annual report shows $112 million in expenses — money Rosseter’s sources say is spent on lobbyists for animal-rights bills, salaries and benefits.Source: WSBTV Channel 2 Action News

Puppy Updates

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:40:00 +0000

Sorry that I have not been posting updates with photos but things are pretty hectic. I am sure you can all understand that having 3 puppies is almost like having real babies in the work that is involved. Anyway, excuses, excuses, I know. Here are some more current photos of the babies. They are adorable and growig so fast. I hope you enjoy.

Little girl in front, Big boy in the middle and big girl on top.

Butt, butt, butt......

We got Puppies

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Thu, 07 May 2009 15:45:00 +0000

3 to be exact. 2 girls and 1 boy were born on May 4th around 2pm (EST). They all were very respectable in thw weight department. Boy was 8oz, lighter Girl was 7.5 and the darker Girl was 7oz. In the two days they have been alive they have gained 1 or more oz each. The boy is now 9 1/4 and has gained the most.

Here are some random pictures. I hope to get some better ones as they grow. It is pretty difficult at this stage.

Here they are just minutes old.

Here just a few minutes later.

Here they are after their first good meal at home doing what they do best, sleeping.

This is boy. We do not have any names picked out. Not that we will be keeping them all or anyting like that. I do like to be able to call them something besides boy, girl, girl, etc.

This is darker girl. She will be more fawn in color and the other 2 will be a really light cream color.

And this is light girl.

Sisters!

And this one is just two cute not to share. Momma and dark girl sleeping cheek to cheek.

I just realized that it has been almost a month since I last posted. I had a good time in Vegas. Mostly since then I have been working to catch up and get ahead so I would be ready when the puppies arrived. Since their arrival I have not gotten much sleep. But last night was better. Binde is a really good and attentive mommy.

Back to work. Will try to get more pictures and information out soon.

Vegas Baby!!

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 11:00:00 +0000

Tomorrow morning I leave Tampa

And arrive in Las Vegas where I will be staying here.

I am hoping my room looks like this (that is what it looked like the last time I went)

I may even get some time to go here.

I am sure I will see this guy too.

No, not that guy standing in front, the other one. (This is the lobby of Ceasars)

But most of my time will be spent doing this.

No, I won't be wearing the Gi. That is me in the suit. I will be doing alot of this all weekend.

A couple of months ago we were planning for Shay to fly down to meet me for the weekend but that is not going to happen now. She wants to save all of her leave time so she can take 2 weeks in June when she comes to Florida.

I definately won't have time to blog while I am there. Not that I have been blogging much and I have been home (LOL).

I will post when I return to tell you about my trip.

Let me introduce you

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 20:06:00 +0000

Bindi. She is my 2 year old French Bulldog that I bred.And this is Simon.

Together (and with help from the owners) they created this.

The vet says she sees at least 3 puppies. Says there could be more but she did see 3.

They are due on May 3/4. But we have an appointment for May 2nd (Saturday) and if her hormones support it they may be born on that day. That way I won't have to call her in on a Sunday.

There is nothing cuter than a litter of French Bulldog puppies. I will keep you posted.

And sorry for not posting that often. Life is very busy.

I really HATE to tell you this, but.......

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 20:09:00 +0000

Yesterday I had the opportunity to meet Hallie and John. We met at Wolfgang Pucks (BK had given John a gift card for his birthday). Hallie texted to tell me they were waiting outside at Bongo's. I am sure they were enjoying a nice beverage. Then she texted to tell me they were now in front of Wolfgangs because the sun had moved (damn sun). I was still driving on I4 almost to my exit so being the safe driver that I am, I texted back that I was on my way and then that I was parking. Of course my luck, I parked at the way other end of Downtown Disney from the restuarant. So I let Hallie know I was walking and she told me to come upstairs. I have to tell you, I was a little nervous. But after the first minute I knew I had no reason to be. It was so natural and flowing. Hallie is a hugger (me too) so she greated me with a hug. I got to hug John too.

We had a fabulous dinner. I had never eaten there before and I had a lovely steak. Well, I ate 1/2 of it and brought the other half home for the doggies. They are gonna love it tonight. After dinner we walked towards Pleasure Island and stopped for drinks outside the Harley Shop. We talked and talked and talked. We talked about all of you in blogger world. Hallie is the first blogger buddy that I have met and I am her first too.

But like the title of this blogs says, I really hate to tell you this but Hallie is just as sweet in person as she is in blogger and facebook world. And John, well he is just as handsome in real life as his pictures depict and he was great. He participated in conversations and never once made me feel like this was a awkward situation.

We walked to the west end of Downtown Disney because I was on a mission. I am an annual passholder and get to buy the special pins for passholders. So we walked all that way, I stood in line only to find out that they are out. DAMN! I did end up buying Shay a new Eyeore Stocking. But don't tell her shhhhhssshhh. We stopped at another outside place for one last drink and some people watching. Yep, there are all kinds of people in Florida. Then we parted ways and I hope to go visit them up in Maine someday. Kim-D, need a buddy to go with you in October?

I took a few pictures and Hallie made me promise to delete one but I can't remember which one is was so here they are. (wink wink)

Don't they look natural on this? I think Hallie could really be a biker babe.

This one is while we were having the first drink.

This one was on eht bridge looking at Planet Hollywood. (I think this is the one I was supposed to delete)
I have met AIrman Moms son, John. He was at Wright Patterson AFB when I went to pick up Shay after her graduation and now I have meet Hallie.

So, who do you have on you list of blogging buddies that you would like to meet?

Ask the Captain

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:13:00 +0000

NBVC, Magu Point, CA has a newsletter. I am not sure how often it is published but the one I am looking at is dated January 15, 2009. In this newsletter is a section call "Ask the Captain!" I guess this is where people can write in and as him questions. Then the one selected to be answered gets published in the newsletter.

OMG! I love this Captain. I want to hug him. I want to salute him (because he has earned it. I can't insert it because it is a PDF document so I am going to copy and paste for your enjoyment.

Question:
What is the deal with the gate guards not surrendering salutes to officer’s vehicles? I don’t think an admiral’s wife or your wife would appreciate that either. We’ve worked hard to get here and should be recognized. They learned to recognize your vehicles. On every base I’ve been on they have a sign WE RENDER SALUTES PROUDLY. Here they work on trying not to salute the vehicle if the active duty member is not present. Isn’t it by UCMJ code they are supposed to render a salute to an officer? The vehicle has a sticker so why do they not (salute) whether or not the active duty member is present or not? Fill me in!! DO THEY NOT TRAIN THESE PEOPLE ANY MORE?? If not, I see more and more laxness going on in this military.

A CWO wife.

You are going to love this.

Answer:Wow. That’s quite a sense of entitlement you have. Are you sure a salute is sufficient? Perhaps a curtsy or a genuflect would be more appropriate? We could have one sentry prostrate himself before you while the other fetches some oats for that high horse you’re riding. First, the irony of addressing what you perceive to be an issue of respect in such a disrespectful tone is not lost. Secondly, since you specifically brought her into the dialogue, my wife thinks your question indicates a regrettably narrow perspective. Third, yes, we have training which encompasses many things for which a post sentry is responsible and accountable, primarily focused on force protection, anti-terrorism, law enforcement, defense of critical assets and infrastructure, and the use of lethal force. But thanks for asking. Fourth, if you consider standing a post 65-70 hours a week as “laxness,” then I invite you to put on your winter coat and go stand on the asphalt in front of your house for four hours holding your vacuum cleaner when the temperature reaches 85 degrees. That will give you some very small sense of what it is like to man a post, without of course the lethal responsibility. Salutes are a custom between military members dating back as far as Roman times when soldiers approached each other in a manner to indicate they were not armed. The custom evolved over many centuries in many militaries, but it has always been a custom exclusively between military members. It is also important to understand that the salute is a custom of mutual respect, not subservience. That is why both members salute. It is customary (and required under Navy regulations) for the junior to render (not “surrender”) the salute first, but the senior member must return the salute promptly and in the same manner. This tangibly expresses the reciprocal respect among military members. NBVC sentries will render salutes to properly identified officers, active or retired, immediately upon identification. The salute was never intended as recognition of, or as a reward for, your “hard work to get here.” While I certainly value that hard work and your support of your husband’s military career, along with the sacrifice it entails, you ma’am are compensated in other ways for those achievements and accomplishments. You rate many things other than a salute as a dedicated Navy wife, our gratitude, appreciation, and respect among them. I sincerely hope, expect, and require that you are always treated courteously and professionally on our bases. I would ask that you give the sentries their due as well rather than leaping to the most cynical of all conclusions when our execution is imperfect. Send your questions, issues and concerns to Capt. Brad Conners, NBVC commanding officer, c/o the Public Affairs staff at lighthouse@navy.mil. You may also write to the following address; 311 Main Rd., Bldg. 116, Code

Didn't I tell you you were going to love it?

Happenings and Ramblings

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 18:24:00 +0000

I was planning to post today just to get up to date with folks. But I also want to post that I think it is a tragic course of events that Natasha Richardson died of her injuries from a seemingly minor skiing accident. It just goes to show that you never know. It also reinforces why I am a believer in helmets for skiers and boarders. I started wearing a helmet for skiing about 3-4 years ago. I think it also keeps my head warmer. I want my daughter to wear one when she is boarding. I even offered to pay for it. Well, I pay for just about everything ;). Maybe now she will listen to me.

So, what have you been up to? Me? Lets see. I was sick (AGAIN) with a damn cold that just would not go away. I finally went to one of those walk in clinics last Saturday and after waiting for 2 hours I got antibiotics and steroids. Boy do I feel 200 times better.

My husband has been out of the country for the last two weeks. He was in Korea then Taiwan and finally in Japan. He got back to the US last Friday and called me from Detroit. After going through customs they got their flight to Atlanta. Once in Atlanta they had to take a bus to Montgomery, AL (That is where he is going to school). He decided to get in his car and drive to Tampa. This is at least a 7 hour drive on a good day. I told him he did not have to do it, but he did. He arrived at the house around 5:30am on Saturday. Spent most of the weekend trying to get back on his sleep schedule. He went back to Alabama on Monday and I am back to my normal routine.

So, I go to the gym on Mon, Wed and Fri and sometime during the weekend. I go to karate class on Tue and Thur. And I try to get the dogs out for a walk when it is cool enough. I figure I have to get in what I can because there will come a time in May when I may not be able to do all of this stuff for myself for a couple of weeks.

You see, we are hoping that little Binde is pregnant. I think I wrote about taking her up to Ocala to meet her mate. We will find out for sure on April 3rd. That is when I take her to the vet for an ultrasound. Keep her in your wishes. Here is a picture of Binde. Isn't she just the cutest thing?

I suppose I could show you a picture of the baby daddy (if we are pregnant). Meet Simon.

What else? Well, today is Thursday so that means tomorrow is Friday and then we get SATURDAY. I am so looking forward to Saturday. It is a stay home day which also means a no alarm clock day. I so need a no alarm clock day right now.

Plus, blogger Hallie is bringing birthday boy John to Disney World and I am supposed to get to meet them. I am waiting for them to determine the best day and time. Perhaps dinner this weekend. It will be so great to finally meet someone I have considered a friend for the past year.

Well, that is about it for now. I will try to blog again before the year is over LOL. Be good and take care.

I lead a boring life

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 13:16:00 +0000

and that means that I don't have a lot of exciting things to post about. That is one of the reasons I like facebook. All you have to do is post a simple one liner about what you are doing, where you are going, etc.

I suppose I could do that here but that would not be very interesting reading now would it.

I guess I could tell you about how last week Binde spend a few days in Ocala with Simon and we are hoping for puppies in May. Keep your fingers crossed. We will be bale to find out if she is pregnant in about a month. Then we will do an ultra sound to see how many puppies are in there (if any). I am still waiting for Molly to come in to season so I can take her to Ocala to meet her "baby daddy", Hero.

On the Shay front. She is doing well. Got her first Performance Evaluation and all marks were "clearly exceeds" and "truly among the best". They wrote lots of positive bullets and the best one was "promote BTZ immediately". She is tired of the snow already. She was going to meet me in Las Vegas in April but decided to save her leave time so she can take an extended vacation in June. I have not seen her since November 3rd. That will be 7 1/2 months that I have not seen her. The longest in her whole life. I know, I know, at least I get to talk to her multiple times per day and on occasion we have communicated via Skype but it is not skin touch.

What about me? Well, I continue to go to the gym 3-4 times per week and have been working with a trainer (Jeff) 3 times per week. I also go to my karate class 2 times per week. It makes for long days and short nights that's for sure. Maybe that is why I got sick this past week. I have been on the couch since Friday. I was such a couch potato that even the dogs got bored. I am at work today but not sure how long I will be able to last. I might have to cancel my training appointment tonight too. Not sure if my lungs could take it.

Hubby as been in Korea, Taiwan and now Japan since February 28th. He is due back to the states on the 15th. I won't get to see him until the end of April though. Unless he decides to drive down before then. My life will be less hectic when he gets back from the Air War College.

I see that all of my blogging buddies have been busy. I do try to read blogs as often as I can get away with it. But as you can see, since my nights are short I don't have much free time to devote to the computer. As it is I am cheating at work to write this. So, I better go for now and I will keep you posted on whether we are going to have puppies in May.

TTFN

Michelle Needs - - - - - -

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:46:00 +0000

I did the Google thing and thought I would share it with you:

Your Help - No lie.

Seeking Serenity - Aren't we all

Colorado to vote - Ok, this one is for Tonjia

And Lastly, This is how you say "Michelle Needs to Go Poop" in various languages

ミシェルのニーズにうんち = Japanese

michelle doit aller merde = French

Michelle muss gehen poop = German

Michelle moet gaan kak = Dutch

Michelle tiene que ir caca = Spanish

Мишель должна идти полуют = Russian

Have you done your Google Search Yet? What are you waiting for? You might find out what you really need.

I also wanted to comment about how loved I feel today. After not blogging for forever I posted yesterday and you all still love me. And some of you even missed me.

We are going to Destin, FL for a week in June for a family vacation. There will be 19 of us there. So I have contacted Lisa at my new thing to do and asked her if she would fly out for a couple of days to take family pictures. This group will probably never get together like this again. It will be me and Hubby, Shay and hubbies father and son. Wes's Aunt Janet and Uncle Gerald, there three kids and spouses and all of their kids. 19 people total. WOW. We will be singing karaoke, playing Wii (Rock Band 2), Dance Revolution, Beer Pong (for Shay)and poker of course. I am sure we will have other games as well and lots of time at the beach. But don't you think it would be great to create a hard bound memory book for everyone? Wes's mom used to say "We're making a memory" and I think this would be a perfect title for our family vacation book.

I have told everyone to bring a white shirt and blue jeans for the family portrait. This is going to be fun!!

Booo

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 21:58:00 +0000

Scared ya didn't I? Sorry I have not been posting much these days. I could say that I have not been doing much but that would be a lie. I just haven't been doing anything blog worthy. I am so not worthy.

Lets see, I work, go to the gym 3 times a week, go to Karate class 2 times per week and the rest of the time is spent cleaning house and taking care of the dogs. Nothing really exciting.

Shay is doing good. She continues to do well and be recognized for her efforts. She was able to go "home" to Seattle this past weekend. Just in time for my brother to go to Chicago. Oh Well, such is life. She had a good time with some friends and spent part of Sunday with my BFF.

Hubby will be heading to Japan, Korea and China soon. He will be gone for 2 weeks (I think). He is still attending the Air Force War College at Maxwell AFB in Montgomery, AL. He graduates in May and it will be so nice to have him home. I hate doing the laundry!

With what little free time I do have I try to keep up with emails and contacts via Facebook. If you want to be my friend, look me up. MRenLew@aol.com is my email address.

Well, gotta get back to work. Hopefully something exciting will happen soo for me to blog about. Until then, catch me on facebook.

Wednesday Hero

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:00:00 +0000

This Weeks Post Was Suggested And Written By Brat

Sgt. Patrick Tainsh
33 years old from Oceanside, California
Troop E, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment
February 11, 2004

Five years ago today, Sgt. Patrick Tainsh sacrificed all as the mounted unit he
was part of was hit by an IED in Baghdad. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze and Sliver Stars saving the lives of his commanding officer and other soldiers before succumbing to his own wounds. Also killed in the attack was Pfc. William C. Ramirez from Portland, Oregon.

On Veteran’s Day, 2007, Deborah Tainsh, Sgt. Tainsh's mother, attended a school in Columbia, Georgia, and shared a story she had written called "A Boy Named Patrick."

Here is part of the story :

…a little boy named Patrick who loved football, beaches, surfing, and
skateboarding, and especially reading. Patrick watched his dad be a Marine for
over twenty years. During this time Patrick kept reading not only surfing and
skateboarding magazines, but history books, too. One day when Patrick was a man, he told his dad and best friend, “I want to do something that will make a
difference in the world, I’m going to be a soldier.” And so he did. And in 1999
he went to Fort Knox, Kentucky for boot camp and then went to Fort Polk,
Louisiana where he worked and trained hard to become a United States Army
Cavalry Scout. Then in 2003 Patrick had to say good bye to his mom and dad
because he had to go fight a war in Iraq to protect his country, friends, and
family from terrorists and to help fight for the freedoms of the boys and girls
in that country where they and their families were treated very badly by their
country’s leader. Patrick once wrote a letter to his mom and dad telling them
that he cried for the children because they were hungry and he didn’t have food
to give them. He said he couldn’t understand how a country’s leader could treat
the people so badly and make them live in such dirty conditions with trash and
wild dogs everywhere. And so Patrick's mom and dad keep a photo in their living
room of Patrick surrounded by Iraqi children.

You can read the story in it's entirety here.

Sgt Tainsh came to the military later than some, but rose through the ranks fast. In his last letter to his parents, Sgt Tainsh shared his thoughts about his mission. And in 2006, Sgt. Tainsh's mother wrote a book called Heart Of A Hawk about her son's life and her and her husband's struggles since their son was killed.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.
We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Oklahoma dog Owners - Urgent Alert!!

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:56:00 +0000

House Hearing Tuesday On Devastating Breeding Bill

by JOHN YATES
American Sporting Dog Alliance
http://www.americansportingdogalliance.org
asda@conline.net

This article is archived at:

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - Pro-animal rights veterinarians and their allies are
back again with a vengeance in Oklahoma, and are ramrodding legislation to target
everyone who raises dogs under the guise of regulating “puppy mills.” If
passed into law, this legislation would destroy hobby breeding of high quality
purebred dogs in Oklahoma.

The House Economic Development and Financial Services Committee has set a
hearing for Tuesday (February 10, 2009) on House Bill 1332, sponsored by Rep.
Lee Denney and also known as the “Oklahoma Pet Quality Assurance and Protection
Act.” The 4:30 p.m. hearing is open to the public, and the American Sporting
Dog Alliance urges dog owners to attend.

It must be emphasized that this legislation is being fast-tracked for rapid
passage, and it is urgent for Oklahoma dog owners to take clear and decisive
action now. Failure to act greatly increases the chances that you will lose the
right to raise dogs. Suggestions about how to take an active role in
defeating this legislation are included later in this report.

Rep. Denney introduced an almost identical bill last year, but it was
soundly defeated in the House Agriculture Committee following intense opposition by
dog owners, the American Sporting Dog Alliance, and farmers and ranchers.

This year, however, Rep. Denny has cut a deal to circumvent the Agriculture
Committee.

HB 1332 is before the House Economic Development and Financial Services
Committee. Convincing leadership to put a bill in an inappropriate committee falls
under the category of a political dirty trick. The committee is inappropriate
because the state Department of Agriculture would administer and enforce the
law.

This legislation:

• Prohibits an out of state breeder from transporting dogs into or
through Oklahoma, which would effectively destroy dog shows, field trials and
other canine events in the state. If a hobby breeder were to bring dogs to an
Oklahoma event, the dogs could be confiscated and the owner would face heavy
fines and penalties.

• Gives any animal control officer, peace officer or animal cruelty
investigator unrestricted access to a kennel owner’s home, facilities, anim
als, records and property. The bill denies kennel owners constitutional right of
protection from unreasonable searches and seizures, as no warrants are
required. In addition, the simple act of owning a licensed kennel would allow any
kind of peace officer to search a person’s property for any reason, and this
power is not limited to animal laws. This provision alone is a completely
unethical assault on the Bill of Rights.

• Effectively prohibits any Oklahoma resident from buying a puppy
or dog from another state, as the breeder would have to be licensed in
Oklahoma.

• Requires every breeder, rescue organization, animal shelter and
pet store to be state licensed – not just dealers or commercial kennels – if
they sell, give away or adopt out 25 or more animals a year. This would destroy
many rescue programs.

• Says that a license will not be issued to anyone who has or has
ever had a federal kennel license through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
This provision will destroy many well-run kennel businesses that meet or exceed
all legal requirements for the care of animals, and result in the owners of
those businesses losing many thousands of dollars that they have invested in
land and facilities, also losing their livelihood. However, all kennels will be
required to follow federal regulations for housing, care and other management
issues.

• Gives the state the authority to implement complete regulations
for the management of all kennels and the care of the dogs, with no provision
for legislative approval or input from dog owners.

• Requires extensive record keeping, and kennel management and
medical practices to be approved by a veterinarian. The legislation changes the
legal status of dog owners to that of guardians, and removes all decision-making
power from the hands of kennel owners. Dogs effectively become wards of the
state under this legislation.

• Denies a license to anyone who is on probation or parole for any
offense, even if they have nothing to do with animals. Licenses also are
denied for anyone who has been found guilty of violating any statute pertaining to
animals, including relatively minor offenses such as leash laws, local
licensing laws and noise ordinances. In addition, purely technical or minor
violations of state kennel regulations would cause mandatory denial.

• Provides fines of up to $2,500 for each violation, while granting
the kennel owner only the right to an administrative appeal. Placing liens
against a kennel owner’s property is authorized to collect fines, penalties and
costs for seizing dogs. Several provisions allow the state to seize,
confiscate and euthanize animals.

Here is a link to the text of HB 1332:
http://www.okvma.org/associations/2557/files/2PQA2009HB1332.pdf. (Please note that this is on the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association site, as the official state legislature site requires a complex search. The veterinarians’ group is pushing this legislation. The sponsor, Rep. Denney, is a veterinarian. The OVMA and its allies have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars into promoting this legislation, and have hired a full-time professional political lobbyist.)

We also see many unintended consequences to the legislation. For example,
America’s troubled economy means that many people are forced to abandon their
pets when they lose their homes or jobs. The destruction of rescue and fostering
networks will lead to the needless death of thousands of beloved animals in
Oklahoma, if this legislation is approved.

The legislation also is based on faulty premises, such as unsubstantiated
claims that there are many illegal kennels in Oklahoma. No evidence has been
given to support this outrageous claim. Moreover, if an illegal kennel exists,
existing laws could fully address the situation. It is a waste of tax dollars to
duplicate government services.

The American Sporting Dog Alliance urges every Oklahoma dog owner to contact
each member of the House Economic Development and Financial Services
Committee to express clear opposition to this legislation. Because the hearing is this
coming Tuesday, please make these contacts as quickly as possible.

Our suggestion is to send an immediate email to each legislator, and follow
it up with a fax or phone call. Even a brief note clearly stating your
opposition will be important. Keeping your tone polite and respectful goes along way
in public life.

Here is email contact information for the members of the House Economic
Development and Financial Services Committee:

• Daniel Sullivan, Chair- danielsullivan@okhouse.gov;

• Randy McDaniel, Vice Chair- randy.mcdaniel@okhouse.gov;

• John Affuet- johnauffet@okhouse.gov,

• John Carey (D) johncarey@okhouse.gov,

• George Faught (R) georgefaught@okhouse.gov,

• Charles Key (R) charles.key@okhouse.gov,

• Guy Liebmann (R) guyliebmann@okhouse.gov,

• Skye McNiel (R) skye.mcniel@okhouse.gov,

• Lewis Moore (R) lewis.moore@okhouse.gov,

• Danny Morgan (D) dannymorgan@okhouse.gov,

• Pat Ownbey (R) pat.ownbey@okhouse.gov,

• Ron Peters (R) ronpeters@okhouse.gov

• Mike Shelton (D) mikeshelton@okhouse.gov,

• Jabar Shumate (D) jabarshumate@okhouse.gov.

This link also will give information about each legislator’s phone, surface
mail and email contact information:
http://www.okhouse.gov/Members/MemberListing.aspx.

Please help Oklahoma dog owners.

The American Sporting Dog Alliance represents owners, breeders and
professionals who work with breeds of dogs that are used for hunting. We also welcome
people who work with other breeds, as legislative issues affect all of us. We
are a grassroots movement working to protect the rights of dog owners, and to
assure that the traditional relationships between dogs and humans maintains its
rightful place in American society and life.

The American Sporting Dog Alliance also needs your help so that we can
continue to work to protect the rights of dog owners. Your membership,
participation and support are truly essential to the success of our mission. We are funded
solely by your donations in order to maintain strict independence.

Please visit us on the web at http://www.americansportingdogalliance.org .
Our email is asda@csonline.net .

PLEASE CROSS-POST AND FORWARD THIS REPORT TO YOUR FRIENDS

Wednesday Hero

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 11:00:00 +0000

This Weeks Post Was Suggested And Written By Cynthia

Sgt James E. Craig

27 years old from Hollywood, South Carolina

1st Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division

January 28, 2008

James, 27, was killed on January 28, 2008, in Mosul, Iraq, along with four other soldiers when the unit encountered an IED, followed by an ambush from a nearby Mosque. It has been a year since James was killed. I miss him each day.

James was on his third deployment to Iraq. There are so many things about James that I admired. He was 'loud' and funny and articulate and sweet - even calling himself 'Sweet Soldier' - and brave and tough. He was a devout Christian and more comfortable with telling people he was than anyone I ever knew - he had a enviable, easy comfort with this faith. It would be so easy to write and write about James, but let me share some portions of his letters - his long and articulate letters.

"...I am very much looking forward to this war being over. However, I fully support everything that is going on over here ever since I saw first hand what the real situation was. Our media doesn't portray the truth of this operation or the necessity to the people here. They need freedom and desperately cry out for someone to help them. ... I know one thing, God wants me here."

"The war here is stating to come to an end. It will be a slow transition period where the responsibility of the battle space is handed over to the growing Iraqi Army. It all depends on the Iraqis if we are able to leave them with it safely."

"...it is a tale of my wonderful journey where I made memories I will never forget and stood up for something that I believe in...that sweet taste of freedom when the day is done and the knowledge that I have done something to ensure the positive future of my loved ones. And, you should know that it comforts me the most that what I do protects wonderful people like you."

To read more about Sgt James Craig, go here.

These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.

We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived

This post is part of the Wednesday Hero Blogroll. For more information about Wednesday Hero, or if you would like to post it on your site, you can go here.

Diamond Sharp Airman

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:39:00 +0000

Yep, that is what my little girl is. Shay received her award certificate and 2 coins in a ceremony yesterday at Fairchild AFB. Three other people from the 92nd Operations Group received this award. Shay was the only A1C! I told her yesterday that she should be walking 2 inches taller from this. This will definitely look good in her BTZ packet.

FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. – Airman 1st Class Sharayah Farrell, 92nd Medical Group laboratory technician, accepts the Diamond Sharp award from Col. Marshal Morrison, 92nd Operations Group commander, Chief Master Sgt. David Nordel, 92nd Air Refueling Wing command chief, and Master Sgt. Ken Rains, 92nd Medical Group first sergeant, at the Warrior Dinning Facility Jan. 22. The Diamond Sharp award is given to Airmen who strive for excellence, both on and off duty, in their community and their personal life. (U.S. Air Force photo / Airman 1st Class Melissa L. Barnett)

We could not be more prouod of her. And, I would not expect anything less from her. She has always been the one who does the right thing and never gave us a lick of trouble while growing up. Unless you count leaving her coat and backpack on the couch, having a messy room or not getting straight A's trouble. Can you see this proud momma's feathers fluffing? You know they are.

Another Sunday

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 01:56:00 +0000

Here it is another Sunday and nothing new to report. Yesterday I got my hair done and ran a couple of errands. For some reason I was tired all day. I mean I was sitting at the salon and had 45 minutes to process and could not keep my eyes open. I didn't sleep, I just couldn't keep my eyes open. When I got home I made a tuna sandwich and then the dogs and I took about a 2 hour nap. Then I didn't do much of anything the rest of the day.

Today, I took the dogs to e=the dog park to meet up with a bunch of other French Bulldogs. They had a blast. We spent 1 1/2 hours there and then went to Petsmart to get dog food. Molly always likes to look at the cats needing adoption.

After we got home I spent the day cleaning all of the dog beds, pillows and blankets. Then I did all the floors. I took the doggies on a long walk and then they had dinner. Now they are all snoring loudly while I watch the football game. So for sure Arizona will be coming to Tampa for the Superbowl and by the looks of things it appears that Pitsburgh will be joining them. Of course, anything could happen. At any rate, it is none of the teams I would care about.

I guess today is a little different than any other Sunday. Today is my birthday. It is also my stepsons birthday today. He is 20. Hubby has his birthday next Saturday. We have many bdays in January.

Like I said, just another Sunday.

Perhaps I should explain....

MRenLew@aol.com (Michelle) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 03:25:00 +0000

After my previous post I received a few comments that indicated some of you thought I might be sick because I spent 5 hours in the bathroom. So I thought I would show you a couple of pictures of what I was doing.

Now before I put new tiles in I think I better take the course at Home Depot again for a refresher. I have to put this rubber based stuff down to fill in the crack before I put the glue down to hold the tiles and then the final step is the grout. I guess you know what I will be doing this weekend.