FamilyMatters

No on Prop 8

I've been moved this election season as in no other -- and frankly I've been pushed across a new line -- actually declaring allegiances and support for people, propositions, and causes. So moved that I started a separate blog I Mean Really just to have a place to capture my thoughts and observations on the world around me.

Much of that blog has been dedicated to the presidential race -- there's some good stuff there! 

But now I'm turning my attention to the incorrigible California Prop 8 -- which would, if, God-forbid, passed, TAKE AWAY the civil rights of gay and lesbian Californians. Oh My God. 

Prop 8 was penned by people who don't object to same-sex marriage -- but it's not about sex, it's about civil rights. And the effort has been funded in large part by the Mormon Church from OUTSIDE CALIFORNIA. 

Yes, we've given money. Yes we have a big No on Prop 8 sign in our front yard -- a first for Lee. Today I launched my own fundraising page to defeat this malicious proposition.  

Please help. Every dollar counts and every dollar will help.  You can also donate right here too! 

Equality for All	$

I'm Going To Spill the Milk Today

Michael -- you may know -- plays the pipe organ. He LOVES the organ. Pete takes him to practice at church 4 times a week -- practicing the organ is a major incentive for Mike - no homework? no organ practice? Laundry not done? No organ practice.

In fourth grade he music teacher at school had him play a recessional from chapel one day. He told no one. The teachers and headmaster told no one -- just in case he opted out. He did a great job (i was in new york unfortunately) -- and the next day Mr. McKee told the school what he had done and everyone applauded -- and some kids stood up -- a great day.

This year, Mrs. Carleton encouraged Mike to share the news that he was going to play in a chapel with his class mates BEFORE he played. Mike wasn't so sure. But apparently after thinking about it, relented.

He said to Mrs. Carleton "Mrs. Carleton I'm ready to spill the milk!"

"Spill the milk?!"

""Yeah, you know, about playing the organ in chapel."

"That's great Mike! ...... But I think you mean "Spill the BEANS"!

Mike Breaks into Baking - with a recipe no less!

Mike's interest in all things culinary continues to grow.

The other day when he was home from school for middle school parent -teacher conferences, I had to work, and couldn't provide a whole lot of guidance or entertainment for the day.

Pete of course gave him a long list of chores to do:

- put away the hose

- find your shoes

- put away your laundry.

etc etc etc (as the King of Siam would say)

He of course wanted to do anything BUT that list. But the perfect incentive....

"Mom, can I bake some bread?"

"Have you done your list?"

"Not yet."

"Do your list, find a recipe, then you can bake some bread."

Voila! List done!

And Mike FOLLOWED THE RECIPE (major accomplishment) and baked his first loaves of honey french bread! It was yummy.