In case you have not heard, I am having my very first book published! It is called Harry the Caterpillar, a children's book. It is illustrated by a great friend, Ana Lia Schiariti Croci. What an amazing job she did on the illustrations, too!
Shortly after our third child, Faith Ann, was born, I realized that something was wrong with me. If you know me personally, you might have assumed that something was "wrong" with me for a long time! All joking aside, one evening, while preparing dinner, it became obvious that something was wrong as my left side was no longer under my control.
Having thought I suffered a stroke, I was admitted to the hospital. Keeping this story short, (a longer version may be in the works for publication), it took several weeks of testing to reveal a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.
In the coming months, my symptoms alleviated and, eventually, I was back to my usual self. I am not on any MS meds. Instead, I owe my current good health to vitamin therapy, diet modifications, increased activity and exercise and lots and lots and lots of prayer.
It has been over a year since my last MS episode. My spring, 2009 MRI of the brain showed, "no significant signs of MS".
Giving thanks to God for this second chance meant making some more changes in my life. I had to start living by my own proclamations, for starters. For example, I have always told my children that they could be anything they want in life, that they have no limits. This is something I "talked" but never "walked". I have never felt very confident in myself. I have never felt that good fortune should or could be mine. I can't tell you why. It's not that I don't want to share my reasons, it's just that I don't know. One thing I did know was that I could not set such a poor example for my children.
I have dreamed of being a writer since I was in the third grade. I have always written for hobby, whether it was a family newsletter, notes just to say "hello", short stories that just stayed on my computer, etc. While I was pregnant with Faith Ann, I wrote a children;s story that I was quite pleased with. I decided in September, 2009, that I would just go ahead, send it out to publishers and see if it takes me anywhere. I had also decided that, if no publisher picked it up, in this day and age, I could publish it myself. I sent it out to five publishers. By the end of the week, I heard back from one that they were interested. I could not believe it! I didn't really care what the offer was, I was just thrilled to have been picked up! I accepted, thankfully. A few weeks later, another of the five got back to me and told me they were interested! That was shocking! To be accepted by one is huge, by two out of five is unbelievable!
In the previous weeks, not knowing how the publishing process worked, I felt I had to get the illustrations done for my own book. I have a dear friend who happens to be a phenomenal artist; her house decorated with her own amazing work. I asked her if she would be interested in illustrating the story. She read the story and accepted the offer. Ana Lia surpassed my wildest dreams with what she produced!
Again, I felt God in my life. He works in ways in which we can sometimes never understand. Ana Lia was born and raised in Argentina. After her and her husband were married, they came here to NY. Their daughter and our oldest son were in Kindergarten together. She was pregnant with her second child when I met her, and was pregnant with our third. We connected right away, as we our children had so much in common. Our children now go to different schools, but we still attend the same Church and kept in touch without much effort. A true friendship was born. Here, two worlds came together so easily. I also believe that when God presents us with blessings, we are obligated to share our blessings. Although, the publisher who picked me up is more inclined to deal with their own staff of illustrators, I would not accept the deal unless they took Ana Lia, too. And they did. We were meant to share this, (and many more, hopefully!).
Just before Thanksgiving, Ana Lia returned for an extended visit with her family in Argentina. We were pushing for the book to be released in time for the Holiday sales. We were both disappointed that Ana Lia would be out of the country when the book was released. It became obvious, in the coming weeks, that the book would not be hitting the retailers' shelves in time for Christmas. I thought we were missing a huge opportunity. I spoke with another well-established published author and she assured me that book sales always do best in the spring. She said that a spring release should not discourage me at all. Later, in a conversation with my ever-so-smart God Mother, she reminded me of Ana Lia's return in late January. If the book were to be released in February, as it is now expected to be, then Ana lia would be back in the states. God wants us to celebrate the release together, of course! again, He has been hard at work!
I have a tremendous amount of family, friends and contacts who have been overwhelmingly supportive of this effort! As we start the 2010 year, the ball will really be rolling. Expect to see Harry the Caterpillar released in February, 2010! If you do not see it at your local retailer, (Barnes & Noble, Borders, or your neighborhood retailer), then ASK FOR IT! It will be available globally, attainable by anyone! You can even order it on Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, etc. I will also be doing book signings and readings in the area. Four are in the works so far. Dates and locations will be available to see once the book is released. If you would like me to come to your area for a reading or signing, whether to a school, book club, retailer or event, please ask the person in charge of the establishment or group to contact me or the publisher. Even if yo are out of the NY area, it can still be possible!
Thank you, truly, for your support and readership! I welcome your comments and feedback! Even though I am now "a published author", I am still, and always will be, simply, "Michelle"!
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
"Where's the Outrage?" by Alisa Wilson, Ph.D.
This letter was sent to the Wall Street Journal on August 8, 2008 by Alisa Wilson, Ph.D. of Beverly Hills, CA in response to the Wall Street Journal article titled "Where's The Outrage?" that appeared July 31,2008. I checked Snopes, which states that this is, “correctly attributed.”
Really. I can tell you where the outrage is. The outrage is here, in this middle-aged, well-educated, upper-middle class woman. The outrage is here, but I have no representation, no voice. The outrage is here, but no one is listening for who am I?
I am not a billionaire like George Soros that can fund an entire political movement. I am not a celebrity like Barbra Streisand that can garner the attention of the press to promote political candidates. I am not a film maker like Michael Moore or Al Gore that can deliver misleading movies to the public.
The outrage is here, but unlike those with money or power, I don't know how to reach those who feel similarly in order to effect change. Why am I outraged? I am outraged that my country, the United States of America, is in a state of moral and ethical decline. There is no right or wrong anymore, just what's "fair."
Is it fair that millions of Americans who overreached and borrowed more than they could afford are now being bailed out by the government and lending institutions to stave off foreclosure? Why shouldn't these people be made to pay the consequences for their poor judgment?
When my husband and I purchased our home, we were careful to purchase only what we could afford. Believe me, there are much larger, much nicer homes that I would have loved to have purchased. But, taking responsibility for my behavior and my life, I went with the house that we could afford, not the house that we could not afford. The notion of personal responsibility has all but died in our country.
I am outraged that the country that welcomed my mother as an immigrant from Hitler's Nazi Germany and required that she and her family learn English now allows itself to be overrun with illegal immigrants and worse, caters to those illegal immigrants.
I am outraged that my hard-earned taxes help support those here illegally. That the Los Angeles Public School District is in such disarray that I felt it incumbent to send my child to private school, that every time I go to the ATM, I see "do you want to continue in English or Spanish?", that every time I call the bank, the phone company, or similar business, I hear "press 1 for English or press 2 for Spanish". WHY? This is America , our common language is English and attempts to promote a bi- or multi-lingual society are sure to fail and to marginalize those who cannot communicate in English.
I am outraged at our country's weakness in the face of new threats on American traditions from Muslims. Just this week, Tyson's Food negotiated with its union to permit Muslims to have Eid-al-Fitr as a holiday instead of Labor Day. What am I missing? Yes, there is a large Somali Muslim population working at the Tyson's plant in Tennessee. Tennessee , last I checked, is still part of the United States. If Muslims want to live and work here they should be required to live and work by our American Laws and not impose their will on our long history.
In the same week, Random House announced that they had indefinitely delayed the publication of The Jewel of Medina, by Sherry Jones ... a book about the life of Mohammed's wife, Aisha ... due to fear of retribution and violence by Muslims. When did we become a nation ruled by fear of what other immigrant groups want? It makes me so sad to see large corporations cave rather than stand proudly on the principles that built this country. I am outraged because appeasement has never worked as a political policy, yet appeasing Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is exactly what we are trying to do. An excellent article, also published recently in the Wall Street Journal, went through over 20 years of history and why talking with Iran has been and will continue to be ineffective. Yet talk, with a madman no less, we continue to do. Have we so lost our moral compass and its ability to detect evil that we will not go in and destroy Iran’s nuclear program? Would we rather wait for another Holocaust for the Jews - one which they would be unlikely to survive? When does it end?
As if the battle for good and evil isn't enough, now come the Environmentalists who are so afraid of global warming that they want to put a Bag tax on grocery bags in California; to eliminate Mylar balloons; to establish something as insidious as the recycle police in San Francisco. I do my share for the environment: I recycle, I use water wisely, and I installed an energy efficient air conditioning unit. But when and where does the lunacy stop? Ahmadinejad wants to wipe Israel off the map, the California economy is being overrun by illegal immigrants, and the United States of America no longer knows right from wrong, good from evil. So what does California do? Tax grocery bags.
So, America, although I can tell you where the outrage is, this one middle-aged, well-educated, upper middle class woman is powerless to do anything about it. I don't even feel like my vote counts because I am so outnumbered by those who disagree with me.
Alisa Wilson, Ph.D. Beverly Hills, California
Really. I can tell you where the outrage is. The outrage is here, in this middle-aged, well-educated, upper-middle class woman. The outrage is here, but I have no representation, no voice. The outrage is here, but no one is listening for who am I?
I am not a billionaire like George Soros that can fund an entire political movement. I am not a celebrity like Barbra Streisand that can garner the attention of the press to promote political candidates. I am not a film maker like Michael Moore or Al Gore that can deliver misleading movies to the public.
The outrage is here, but unlike those with money or power, I don't know how to reach those who feel similarly in order to effect change. Why am I outraged? I am outraged that my country, the United States of America, is in a state of moral and ethical decline. There is no right or wrong anymore, just what's "fair."
Is it fair that millions of Americans who overreached and borrowed more than they could afford are now being bailed out by the government and lending institutions to stave off foreclosure? Why shouldn't these people be made to pay the consequences for their poor judgment?
When my husband and I purchased our home, we were careful to purchase only what we could afford. Believe me, there are much larger, much nicer homes that I would have loved to have purchased. But, taking responsibility for my behavior and my life, I went with the house that we could afford, not the house that we could not afford. The notion of personal responsibility has all but died in our country.
I am outraged that the country that welcomed my mother as an immigrant from Hitler's Nazi Germany and required that she and her family learn English now allows itself to be overrun with illegal immigrants and worse, caters to those illegal immigrants.
I am outraged that my hard-earned taxes help support those here illegally. That the Los Angeles Public School District is in such disarray that I felt it incumbent to send my child to private school, that every time I go to the ATM, I see "do you want to continue in English or Spanish?", that every time I call the bank, the phone company, or similar business, I hear "press 1 for English or press 2 for Spanish". WHY? This is America , our common language is English and attempts to promote a bi- or multi-lingual society are sure to fail and to marginalize those who cannot communicate in English.
I am outraged at our country's weakness in the face of new threats on American traditions from Muslims. Just this week, Tyson's Food negotiated with its union to permit Muslims to have Eid-al-Fitr as a holiday instead of Labor Day. What am I missing? Yes, there is a large Somali Muslim population working at the Tyson's plant in Tennessee. Tennessee , last I checked, is still part of the United States. If Muslims want to live and work here they should be required to live and work by our American Laws and not impose their will on our long history.
In the same week, Random House announced that they had indefinitely delayed the publication of The Jewel of Medina, by Sherry Jones ... a book about the life of Mohammed's wife, Aisha ... due to fear of retribution and violence by Muslims. When did we become a nation ruled by fear of what other immigrant groups want? It makes me so sad to see large corporations cave rather than stand proudly on the principles that built this country. I am outraged because appeasement has never worked as a political policy, yet appeasing Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is exactly what we are trying to do. An excellent article, also published recently in the Wall Street Journal, went through over 20 years of history and why talking with Iran has been and will continue to be ineffective. Yet talk, with a madman no less, we continue to do. Have we so lost our moral compass and its ability to detect evil that we will not go in and destroy Iran’s nuclear program? Would we rather wait for another Holocaust for the Jews - one which they would be unlikely to survive? When does it end?
As if the battle for good and evil isn't enough, now come the Environmentalists who are so afraid of global warming that they want to put a Bag tax on grocery bags in California; to eliminate Mylar balloons; to establish something as insidious as the recycle police in San Francisco. I do my share for the environment: I recycle, I use water wisely, and I installed an energy efficient air conditioning unit. But when and where does the lunacy stop? Ahmadinejad wants to wipe Israel off the map, the California economy is being overrun by illegal immigrants, and the United States of America no longer knows right from wrong, good from evil. So what does California do? Tax grocery bags.
So, America, although I can tell you where the outrage is, this one middle-aged, well-educated, upper middle class woman is powerless to do anything about it. I don't even feel like my vote counts because I am so outnumbered by those who disagree with me.
Alisa Wilson, Ph.D. Beverly Hills, California
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
June 24, 2009 "Dear Mr. President"
Dear Mr. President Obama,
Yesterday, I watched from start to finish, your televised address. As I watched and listened to what you had to say, I had a notebook and pen at my side. I was taking notes on what you were addressing, and jotting my own thoughts as you went along. As out of the ordinary that may sound, it is something that I believe Americans should be doing. No matter how we voted in November last year, you are indeed our current President, (as you reminded us several times during your address). Although I did not vote for you, I am not the type of person who sits around and watches what will happen next. I do not sit around complaining about the status quo without feeling compelled to offer some sort of solution or take steps that may lead to a possible solution. The American spirit and the American Dream were not founded on inaction. Therefore, I hope more and more Americans sit with pad and pencil at their side each time you address us, so that they can take their notes and rebuttal more effectively.
Now, let's get to the specifics of yesterday.
You talked about the status of Iran, condemning the violence. However, even when asked blatantly what it it would take for you to feel the need to have America step in, you, Sir, side-stepped the questions. But, that is not what I wanted to discuss today.
You talked in most detail about the government stepping in with a Health Care plan. You spoke of the Market Place. You did an excellent job of explaining the ideals behind it. You explained that Americans who are either uninsured or under-insured, would have this "Market Place" of different Health Insurance plans, varying in type of coverage, extent of coverage, cost of coverage, etc. Of these plans, there would be a government funded plan for people to choose from. Of course, the immediate questions were related to the fact that this could threaten the Private Health Insurance Industry. Your remark was that if the current private companies are as cost-conscious and consumer-minded as they claim, then they should remain a competitive choice in the Market Place that Americans would choose.
There is so much to say with what is wrong with this idea. I will start by saying that the government can obviously buy in greater bulk and possess in greater quantities what it needs to be the most affordable Health Care Plan in the Market Place. When Americans are looking at their choices, it will come down to the bottom line of cost. Purposely or not, the American government will put the Private Health Insurance Industry out of business. It is not only short-sighted for you to think otherwise, but also unAmerican. Why unAmerican? Because this nation was founded on the American Dream, the dream to excel. It was not the dream to stifle and suffocate.
Secondly, as unfair as it sounds, not all Americans will ever be universally covered for Health Care. It is not how our economy works, that is, if we are going to remain a capitalistic, free market society. There should not be an equality in bank accounts across the board. The government should not be telling doctors and medical services how much to charge for their goods and services. The government has no right to do this. All those in the medical field should be irate with your idea. They should come together and fight you on this tooth and nail. For those who are under-insured, (as I am as a Multiple Sclerosis patient), we have to be more resourceful. You know the saying, "When there is a will, there is a way". In these situations, it is necessary to rely on our neighbors, as individuals and as entities. As citizens of this great nation, we must rise to the occasion and educate ourselves on resources that exist. And for those who have, we should be rising to the occasion by being active participants in our society. That means being able to recognize when we possess enough, when our wallets are full enough. If we are blessed enough to do so, we should have the moral standard to help those who are truly in need. On a basic level this would mean donating to local food pantries. On a magnified level, donating to charitable causes and sponsoring charitable efforts. If, "in God we trust", then we should not come knocking on the doors of the White House with our palms up. Rather, we should have our hands out to lift another up.
Focusing back on the idea of all Americans having health insurance, I think you are missing the point. You are searching for ways to give health insurance to all. Instead of handing out ears of corn, you should be handing out the seeds to plant. In that I mean, that if the economy were put back on track, then prosperity in this nation would grow again. With increased prosperity, people can afford, themselves, to cover their medical costs.
Please, Mr. President, listen with open ears and without bias. There is a better way to meet the needs of the American people. You may be thinking that my suggestion, "fix the economy and then all other things will follow" is easier said than done, and easy to be said by someone who does not sit behind the desk in the Oval Office. Well, that is not necessarily true. You have protections around you that my family does not. I possibly have much more at risk than you do, Sir. And I do have ideas on how to significantly better the economy. I cannot take credit for these ideas, however. You see, I listen to people of all sides of the arguments so that I can be better educated and less biased. With that, the true voice of the American people can be heard. I will gladly share these ideas with you in short time, however, it will have to be at another time from now. You see, I am a mother of three children all six years and younger. My motivation is my family and my faith. Everything I say and do should reflect that. And right now, my 16 month old needs me, so I will say farewell for this moment.
Please explore the idea of abandoning a government health care plan. Instead, give the people the foundations to take care of theme selves. The government was not formed with the premise that it needs to hold the hands of the American people through every step of life. Let us be accountable for ourselves. Let the governement be accountable for itself.
Sincerely,
Michelle M. Birkenstock
http://www.parentsrpeople.com/, search "HudsonValleyAuthor"
http://www.authoredbymichelle.blogspot.com/
authoredbymichelle@verizon.net
6f73b9a05463700089f8616d6a9e07d8
Yesterday, I watched from start to finish, your televised address. As I watched and listened to what you had to say, I had a notebook and pen at my side. I was taking notes on what you were addressing, and jotting my own thoughts as you went along. As out of the ordinary that may sound, it is something that I believe Americans should be doing. No matter how we voted in November last year, you are indeed our current President, (as you reminded us several times during your address). Although I did not vote for you, I am not the type of person who sits around and watches what will happen next. I do not sit around complaining about the status quo without feeling compelled to offer some sort of solution or take steps that may lead to a possible solution. The American spirit and the American Dream were not founded on inaction. Therefore, I hope more and more Americans sit with pad and pencil at their side each time you address us, so that they can take their notes and rebuttal more effectively.
Now, let's get to the specifics of yesterday.
You talked about the status of Iran, condemning the violence. However, even when asked blatantly what it it would take for you to feel the need to have America step in, you, Sir, side-stepped the questions. But, that is not what I wanted to discuss today.
You talked in most detail about the government stepping in with a Health Care plan. You spoke of the Market Place. You did an excellent job of explaining the ideals behind it. You explained that Americans who are either uninsured or under-insured, would have this "Market Place" of different Health Insurance plans, varying in type of coverage, extent of coverage, cost of coverage, etc. Of these plans, there would be a government funded plan for people to choose from. Of course, the immediate questions were related to the fact that this could threaten the Private Health Insurance Industry. Your remark was that if the current private companies are as cost-conscious and consumer-minded as they claim, then they should remain a competitive choice in the Market Place that Americans would choose.
There is so much to say with what is wrong with this idea. I will start by saying that the government can obviously buy in greater bulk and possess in greater quantities what it needs to be the most affordable Health Care Plan in the Market Place. When Americans are looking at their choices, it will come down to the bottom line of cost. Purposely or not, the American government will put the Private Health Insurance Industry out of business. It is not only short-sighted for you to think otherwise, but also unAmerican. Why unAmerican? Because this nation was founded on the American Dream, the dream to excel. It was not the dream to stifle and suffocate.
Secondly, as unfair as it sounds, not all Americans will ever be universally covered for Health Care. It is not how our economy works, that is, if we are going to remain a capitalistic, free market society. There should not be an equality in bank accounts across the board. The government should not be telling doctors and medical services how much to charge for their goods and services. The government has no right to do this. All those in the medical field should be irate with your idea. They should come together and fight you on this tooth and nail. For those who are under-insured, (as I am as a Multiple Sclerosis patient), we have to be more resourceful. You know the saying, "When there is a will, there is a way". In these situations, it is necessary to rely on our neighbors, as individuals and as entities. As citizens of this great nation, we must rise to the occasion and educate ourselves on resources that exist. And for those who have, we should be rising to the occasion by being active participants in our society. That means being able to recognize when we possess enough, when our wallets are full enough. If we are blessed enough to do so, we should have the moral standard to help those who are truly in need. On a basic level this would mean donating to local food pantries. On a magnified level, donating to charitable causes and sponsoring charitable efforts. If, "in God we trust", then we should not come knocking on the doors of the White House with our palms up. Rather, we should have our hands out to lift another up.
Focusing back on the idea of all Americans having health insurance, I think you are missing the point. You are searching for ways to give health insurance to all. Instead of handing out ears of corn, you should be handing out the seeds to plant. In that I mean, that if the economy were put back on track, then prosperity in this nation would grow again. With increased prosperity, people can afford, themselves, to cover their medical costs.
Please, Mr. President, listen with open ears and without bias. There is a better way to meet the needs of the American people. You may be thinking that my suggestion, "fix the economy and then all other things will follow" is easier said than done, and easy to be said by someone who does not sit behind the desk in the Oval Office. Well, that is not necessarily true. You have protections around you that my family does not. I possibly have much more at risk than you do, Sir. And I do have ideas on how to significantly better the economy. I cannot take credit for these ideas, however. You see, I listen to people of all sides of the arguments so that I can be better educated and less biased. With that, the true voice of the American people can be heard. I will gladly share these ideas with you in short time, however, it will have to be at another time from now. You see, I am a mother of three children all six years and younger. My motivation is my family and my faith. Everything I say and do should reflect that. And right now, my 16 month old needs me, so I will say farewell for this moment.
Please explore the idea of abandoning a government health care plan. Instead, give the people the foundations to take care of theme selves. The government was not formed with the premise that it needs to hold the hands of the American people through every step of life. Let us be accountable for ourselves. Let the governement be accountable for itself.
Sincerely,
Michelle M. Birkenstock
http://www.parentsrpeople.com/, search "HudsonValleyAuthor"
http://www.authoredbymichelle.blogspot.com/
authoredbymichelle@verizon.net
6f73b9a05463700089f8616d6a9e07d8
Jan. 24, 2009 "Dear Mr. President"
In January, 2009, I began a personal campaign to have my voice heard by the White House. The letter below was my first letter to the President. It was sent directly to President Obama and to several newspapers around the country. I am about to send another letter off and wanted to give my new blog readers some back ground on this by posting this letter. I always welcome comments!
Dear Mr. President,
Today I have made a promise. This promise is to myself, to my children and to my Lord. It is a promise of diligence and enduring conviction.I begin by asking you to be a man of your word. Your very first words as President of these great United States of America told us that you were standing before all humble, grateful and mindful. I ask of you, even plead with you, to remain that way. Be humble enough to hear the voice of each one of us. Be grateful enough that we love this country enough to speak up. Be mindful enough to realize that there is a value to what we say.Mr. President, today I write to you with a heavy heart. As with all forty four Presidents, the first one hundred days in office are watched with microscopic vision. These first one hundred days blazes the path for not only the coming four years, but for our history in the making.Signing the order reversing abortion-funds policy is a grave error that will act as a pebble in the proverbial pond. To begin with, looking at the economic emergency that this nation is currently in, it is shocking that you would find such urgency to spend money that has been saved by having the ban in place. Secondly, favor would be won with more of your citizens to see their own hard earned tax paying dollars remain domestic rather than spending globally. We need to help ourselves before we help others. Lifting this ban is expecting a cripple to carry not only himself, but also his neighbor. Finally, you did not ask us, your constituents, how we felt about this. A a a nation who proclaims freedoms associated with religion, your action suffocates me. It is against every fiber of my being to assist in activities that are pro-abortion. You are stealing my money and using it ways in which you do not have my permission. You are not even taking this in careful enough stride to allocate these funds for the education of choice and leaving it there. Instead, you are willing to use my money to have a doctor snuff life out. You spoke out against the slaughtering of the innocents in your Inaugural Speech. Do you not realize that this is the slaughtering of the innocent by signing the reverse order? Instead, could you not allocate funds to the security of the nations where men go freely about their way after having just raped a thirteen year old girl? Or to promote safe sex alternatives even, yes, abstinence in lesser educated communities? Do you really feel this was entirely necessary? I think you do realize that there are alternatives. That is why you signed this behind closed doors, without fanfare, almost in humiliation and regret.You spoke of prudent use of power in your first minutes as President. Well, Mr. President, I do not see your use of power here as being prudent at all.Sincerely,Michelle M. Birkenstock
Dear Mr. President,
Today I have made a promise. This promise is to myself, to my children and to my Lord. It is a promise of diligence and enduring conviction.I begin by asking you to be a man of your word. Your very first words as President of these great United States of America told us that you were standing before all humble, grateful and mindful. I ask of you, even plead with you, to remain that way. Be humble enough to hear the voice of each one of us. Be grateful enough that we love this country enough to speak up. Be mindful enough to realize that there is a value to what we say.Mr. President, today I write to you with a heavy heart. As with all forty four Presidents, the first one hundred days in office are watched with microscopic vision. These first one hundred days blazes the path for not only the coming four years, but for our history in the making.Signing the order reversing abortion-funds policy is a grave error that will act as a pebble in the proverbial pond. To begin with, looking at the economic emergency that this nation is currently in, it is shocking that you would find such urgency to spend money that has been saved by having the ban in place. Secondly, favor would be won with more of your citizens to see their own hard earned tax paying dollars remain domestic rather than spending globally. We need to help ourselves before we help others. Lifting this ban is expecting a cripple to carry not only himself, but also his neighbor. Finally, you did not ask us, your constituents, how we felt about this. A a a nation who proclaims freedoms associated with religion, your action suffocates me. It is against every fiber of my being to assist in activities that are pro-abortion. You are stealing my money and using it ways in which you do not have my permission. You are not even taking this in careful enough stride to allocate these funds for the education of choice and leaving it there. Instead, you are willing to use my money to have a doctor snuff life out. You spoke out against the slaughtering of the innocents in your Inaugural Speech. Do you not realize that this is the slaughtering of the innocent by signing the reverse order? Instead, could you not allocate funds to the security of the nations where men go freely about their way after having just raped a thirteen year old girl? Or to promote safe sex alternatives even, yes, abstinence in lesser educated communities? Do you really feel this was entirely necessary? I think you do realize that there are alternatives. That is why you signed this behind closed doors, without fanfare, almost in humiliation and regret.You spoke of prudent use of power in your first minutes as President. Well, Mr. President, I do not see your use of power here as being prudent at all.Sincerely,Michelle M. Birkenstock
Sunday, June 21, 2009
ParentsRPeople.com
Hi, Everyone!
As many of you know, I am a recent addition to a great site! I am thrilled to have this position to write for the site. It caters to both family and the career minded. There is a wide range of topics that is covered within the site, giving me a broad area in which to explore. You will see me writing on politics, religion, health & wellness, education, parenting and more! Having you visit me on the site helps me within the company. So, please visit me at www.ParentsRPeople.com !
You can find me by using my name or by using my screen name which is HudsonValleyAuthor. I have a blog there, but this blog is also linked to it. So, if I update this one, it will automatically update that one!
I am looking for feedback at all times! We do not have to agree on our positions, just be able to qualify our standings to each other!
Thank you for the tremendous support you have shown me! www.ParentsRPeople.com is a huge opportunity for me that is a blessing from above!
As many of you know, I am a recent addition to a great site! I am thrilled to have this position to write for the site. It caters to both family and the career minded. There is a wide range of topics that is covered within the site, giving me a broad area in which to explore. You will see me writing on politics, religion, health & wellness, education, parenting and more! Having you visit me on the site helps me within the company. So, please visit me at www.ParentsRPeople.com !
You can find me by using my name or by using my screen name which is HudsonValleyAuthor. I have a blog there, but this blog is also linked to it. So, if I update this one, it will automatically update that one!
I am looking for feedback at all times! We do not have to agree on our positions, just be able to qualify our standings to each other!
Thank you for the tremendous support you have shown me! www.ParentsRPeople.com is a huge opportunity for me that is a blessing from above!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Lean on Me
Title: Lean on Me
June 14, 2009
In these economically challenging days, we all know somebody who is in straits. Jobs are being cut. Positions are being redefined and restructured. This leaves many unemployed or making less money than what it costs to live, as that continually rises. Mortgages and car payments are delinquent and people do not know where to turn for help. Instead of turning to the government, should we not be turning to each other?
There used to be a time when people would turn to family, friends, fellow countrymen instaed of looking to the White House for a rescue plan. With our current governemnt struggling to to reshape it’s role to assist, this is an opportune time to have the average American step forward.
Some have already committed to this idea by agreeing to reduce their own hours in the work week in order to keep another from getting a pink slip. Others have contributed by not allowing their own restraints keep them from donating to their local food pantries. And, more people are donating their gently used clothes and household items to Good Will or consignment shops, allowing others to shop more affordably. On a more personal level, school and religious communities have adopted families to anonymously provide for their needs as a united effort. The network of parents bartering child care with each other is on the increase. With this, parents of both families are able to go to work. Seeing these selfless efforts is reassuring to many. There is a comfort and strength in knowing that when chips are down, we can depend on our neighbors.
Although there is a time and a place for the government to step in and help the citizens of this great nation, we need to have personal accountability as well. We need to tow the line ourselves by spending smarter, saving when we can, while offering what we can to those who are in an hour of need. New government policies take time to be put into place. For some, they come a day late and a dollar short.
Be connected with your community by staying aligned and informed through your neighbors, schools, Churches or synagogues and local groups. Let us do what we can to lend a helping hand as we can instead of waiting for government bail outs. This is what it means to be a patriot. This is what it means to be a champion of the American Dream.
June 14, 2009
In these economically challenging days, we all know somebody who is in straits. Jobs are being cut. Positions are being redefined and restructured. This leaves many unemployed or making less money than what it costs to live, as that continually rises. Mortgages and car payments are delinquent and people do not know where to turn for help. Instead of turning to the government, should we not be turning to each other?
There used to be a time when people would turn to family, friends, fellow countrymen instaed of looking to the White House for a rescue plan. With our current governemnt struggling to to reshape it’s role to assist, this is an opportune time to have the average American step forward.
Some have already committed to this idea by agreeing to reduce their own hours in the work week in order to keep another from getting a pink slip. Others have contributed by not allowing their own restraints keep them from donating to their local food pantries. And, more people are donating their gently used clothes and household items to Good Will or consignment shops, allowing others to shop more affordably. On a more personal level, school and religious communities have adopted families to anonymously provide for their needs as a united effort. The network of parents bartering child care with each other is on the increase. With this, parents of both families are able to go to work. Seeing these selfless efforts is reassuring to many. There is a comfort and strength in knowing that when chips are down, we can depend on our neighbors.
Although there is a time and a place for the government to step in and help the citizens of this great nation, we need to have personal accountability as well. We need to tow the line ourselves by spending smarter, saving when we can, while offering what we can to those who are in an hour of need. New government policies take time to be put into place. For some, they come a day late and a dollar short.
Be connected with your community by staying aligned and informed through your neighbors, schools, Churches or synagogues and local groups. Let us do what we can to lend a helping hand as we can instead of waiting for government bail outs. This is what it means to be a patriot. This is what it means to be a champion of the American Dream.
Super Dads to the Rescue
Title: Super Dads to the Rescue
June 13, 2009
Today’s mom does it all. She is nurturer, care giver, nurse, lover, best friend, navigator, personal assistant, administrative assistant, baker and, oh, yes, she works full time for the family’s income, too. That is the definition of today’s Super Mom. What about Super Dads though? Do they exist? Do they deserve the same "super" title? You bet they do.
Most dads of today work full time to support the family. Some even work anywhere from 50-80 hours a week to do this. After work, dad welcomes the tackle of his children, gets on his aging knees and plays "horsie" to his youngest. His back is about to give out but cannot resist the charms of, "One more time, daddy!" Twice a week he coaches Little League, staying after the game to let the kids hit some extra balls. When it is all done, he digs into his shrinking pocket and buys ice cream for the whole team at the concession stand. On the weekends, he is busy washing mom’s minivan. He washes his after hers. Sure, he may spend a little more time on his wheels, but that is fair enough. The afternoon is spent mowing the lawn. He keeps glancing over at the cars to see what a good job he did, which keeps him smiling with each pass. After dinner, he sits on the back porch, having his favorite drink, looking at his well manicured lawn and showroom clean cars. He asks for a pat on the back from his wife, which he gets with a smile. She knows that as much as he complains about all of the jobs he has to do, he will always do them. He does it because he loves his wife and loves his children. And this is just the "regular" Super Dad. There are also Super-Duper Dads out there.
This title is reserved for an elite group. The title is not handed out like candy. This dad must be truly exceptional. This Dad is the single dad who does all that Super Dad does, and then does what mom would do, too. He kisses boo-boos away and he takes his daughter to ballet class every week. He never misses a PTA meeting, he finds time to teach his son how to fish and gives him the confidence to take the training wheels off the bike. Fortunate to be the daughter of a Super-Duper Dad myself, I know that the life of a single dad is one of sacrifice and selflessness. I always knew that I was number one to my dad. I always knew that no matter how bad I messed up, he would still be there for me. I knew that dad was going to cry on my wedding day. I knew that he would cry again each time I gave him another grandchild. Now my children know what a Super-Duper Pop-Pop he is.
Dads of all shapes, sizes and circumstances rise to the occasion each day. They earn the love and respect of their children and often that of fellow parents as well. This Father’s Day, if you are fortunate enough to be married to a Super Dad or be the child of a Super-Duper Dad, let them know how much they are loved and appreciated. If the words do not come naturally, actions work just fine, too
June 13, 2009
Today’s mom does it all. She is nurturer, care giver, nurse, lover, best friend, navigator, personal assistant, administrative assistant, baker and, oh, yes, she works full time for the family’s income, too. That is the definition of today’s Super Mom. What about Super Dads though? Do they exist? Do they deserve the same "super" title? You bet they do.
Most dads of today work full time to support the family. Some even work anywhere from 50-80 hours a week to do this. After work, dad welcomes the tackle of his children, gets on his aging knees and plays "horsie" to his youngest. His back is about to give out but cannot resist the charms of, "One more time, daddy!" Twice a week he coaches Little League, staying after the game to let the kids hit some extra balls. When it is all done, he digs into his shrinking pocket and buys ice cream for the whole team at the concession stand. On the weekends, he is busy washing mom’s minivan. He washes his after hers. Sure, he may spend a little more time on his wheels, but that is fair enough. The afternoon is spent mowing the lawn. He keeps glancing over at the cars to see what a good job he did, which keeps him smiling with each pass. After dinner, he sits on the back porch, having his favorite drink, looking at his well manicured lawn and showroom clean cars. He asks for a pat on the back from his wife, which he gets with a smile. She knows that as much as he complains about all of the jobs he has to do, he will always do them. He does it because he loves his wife and loves his children. And this is just the "regular" Super Dad. There are also Super-Duper Dads out there.
This title is reserved for an elite group. The title is not handed out like candy. This dad must be truly exceptional. This Dad is the single dad who does all that Super Dad does, and then does what mom would do, too. He kisses boo-boos away and he takes his daughter to ballet class every week. He never misses a PTA meeting, he finds time to teach his son how to fish and gives him the confidence to take the training wheels off the bike. Fortunate to be the daughter of a Super-Duper Dad myself, I know that the life of a single dad is one of sacrifice and selflessness. I always knew that I was number one to my dad. I always knew that no matter how bad I messed up, he would still be there for me. I knew that dad was going to cry on my wedding day. I knew that he would cry again each time I gave him another grandchild. Now my children know what a Super-Duper Pop-Pop he is.
Dads of all shapes, sizes and circumstances rise to the occasion each day. They earn the love and respect of their children and often that of fellow parents as well. This Father’s Day, if you are fortunate enough to be married to a Super Dad or be the child of a Super-Duper Dad, let them know how much they are loved and appreciated. If the words do not come naturally, actions work just fine, too
Monday, June 1, 2009
Where Have All the Moms Gone?
As a young child, the American family was rather traditional. Most fathers worked while the mother stayed home. Entering in to high school years, the corporate woman evolved, entering the work force, making their way to the top like never seen before. Some of the dads even stayed home as the mother gave up the apron strings for the corner office in the Manhattan
high rise. Movies like "Mr. Mom" and "Mrs. Doubtfire" hit the silver screens. Through the college years and a few that followed, both mom and dad went to work, and children made a
mass transition into day care. As the time came to become a mother, the "Green Movement" gained momentum, bringing back a more natural, traditional, intending to be simpler lifestyle that had many moms back at home and dad bringing home the organic, free-range and hormone-free bacon.
Next comes 2008 and the economy is sent into a tailspin. Through the 2008 year, and 2009 so far, the momentum picks up. The non-working mom finds herself alone in the world of stay-at-home-mothers. As a side note, truthfully, "non-working" is a fallacy. Unfortunately, there are just too few words to describe the genre, despite being invaluable. The Stay-At-Home Mom is baking more cupcakes for their childrens schools, finding herself on more school and Church committees and having a harder time keeping up with the laundry. The reason becomes increasingly clear, the moms are gone. But where did they go? They went to Kohl’s, they are commuting to a City job, they are working beside their husband as they struggle to keep the family business afloat.
It has become necessary, perhaps even lacking, an overall desire to go back to work. Some have adjusted well, as kids are grown enough, more independent in school, thankful to help make ends meet at home. Other returning moms, showing it in their eyes, are a bit resentful. None of their domestic or parental duties have been relieved and now a 30 hour work week has been added to their calendar. Their energy is depleting, resentment building. Don’t be mistaken, it would be wrong to think one case of resentment is towards the husband or the family. Rather, it is resentment that this country is in the shape that it is in. We are at a point now where we are in good understanding of how it happened. The jury is still out if the nation is doing what it needs to in order to start emerging from the raging waters that almost drowned us. One thing that can be banked on for sure, moms will have to keep working and send the cupcakes in, too.
high rise. Movies like "Mr. Mom" and "Mrs. Doubtfire" hit the silver screens. Through the college years and a few that followed, both mom and dad went to work, and children made a
mass transition into day care. As the time came to become a mother, the "Green Movement" gained momentum, bringing back a more natural, traditional, intending to be simpler lifestyle that had many moms back at home and dad bringing home the organic, free-range and hormone-free bacon.
Next comes 2008 and the economy is sent into a tailspin. Through the 2008 year, and 2009 so far, the momentum picks up. The non-working mom finds herself alone in the world of stay-at-home-mothers. As a side note, truthfully, "non-working" is a fallacy. Unfortunately, there are just too few words to describe the genre, despite being invaluable. The Stay-At-Home Mom is baking more cupcakes for their childrens schools, finding herself on more school and Church committees and having a harder time keeping up with the laundry. The reason becomes increasingly clear, the moms are gone. But where did they go? They went to Kohl’s, they are commuting to a City job, they are working beside their husband as they struggle to keep the family business afloat.
It has become necessary, perhaps even lacking, an overall desire to go back to work. Some have adjusted well, as kids are grown enough, more independent in school, thankful to help make ends meet at home. Other returning moms, showing it in their eyes, are a bit resentful. None of their domestic or parental duties have been relieved and now a 30 hour work week has been added to their calendar. Their energy is depleting, resentment building. Don’t be mistaken, it would be wrong to think one case of resentment is towards the husband or the family. Rather, it is resentment that this country is in the shape that it is in. We are at a point now where we are in good understanding of how it happened. The jury is still out if the nation is doing what it needs to in order to start emerging from the raging waters that almost drowned us. One thing that can be banked on for sure, moms will have to keep working and send the cupcakes in, too.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
A Walk in the Park
This article was written as a submission to the Hudson Valley Parent Magazine. Consideration for publication is pending.
Spring has sprung and summer is on the horizon. As we step outside our doors, we are welcomed by the songs of the Robbins, the sweet aromas of young blooms and the sense of hope for today and even tomorrow. The struggling forces of the economy and the government, can be forgotten, even if just for an afternoon. Finding retreat from the woes that surround us can be found right in our neighborhoods of the Hudson Valley. Better yet, they can be found for little to no cost at all. Pack a picnic lunch and grab the kids as we venture off to three local parks in the Town of Newburgh, Beacon and Cold Spring.
We begin with Chadwick Lake Park, located on Route 300, just north west of the junction with Route 32. In recent years, the park has seen a multitude of renovations that has made the park a local hot spot with the families of the area. Offering a fantastic children’s park that includes jungle gyms, swings, rock climbing walls and gigantic climb and slide apparatuses, this section was designed with the 6 years and under age group in mind. Accompanying adults have several benches to rest upon while watching their little ones play hard. If you pack a lunch or snack, you can find a spot under the nearby pavilion to take shade and fuel up for a second round of fun. In addition, Chadwick Lake Park boasts amenities such as bocce, basketball, boating, fishing, a roller hockey rink, an ice skating rink when seasonably reasonable and a picturesque walking trail that encircles the lake. An annual permit is needed to utilize the park, with the resident fee being $15 per household, non-residents at $30. However, if grandma and grandpa are senior residents, they get to bring the grandkids for free! More information on the park can be found by logging on to http://www.townofnewburgh.org./ Click on the "Recreation" tab and look for Chadwick Lake Park. Information calls can be handled at the Ranger Station at (845)564-0608.
Let’s cross the river and enter the City of Beacon. Again, with the age group of six and under in mind, we can gather at the Wee Play Children’s Park within the grounds of the Beacon Memorial Park. Conveniently located on Fishkill Avenue, the park grounds are vast and varied. The newly designed park has many of the same great attributes that the Children’s Park at Chadwick Lake offers. Phase I of this park was completed in 2006 with two more phases on the plan books. Besides the playground, there is also a Children’s Garden in the works. Combined, the park provides for both educational and recreational needs. Walk the path up the wooded hill to find shaded areas with picnic tables and grills, a wonderful retreat from the sun! If you find yourself in the mood, just across the street is Ron’s Ice Cream, a refreshing way to end your day in the park. Through the Wee Play Project, the Beacon Recreation and Highway Departments and donations from local residents, the dream of this park is coming true. Visit http://www.weeplayproject.org/ to see how you can still contribute to the future phases of this park.
It is likely that any tot in Cold Spring, NY can tell you about Tiny Tots Play Park. This park was the inspiration for the Wee Play Park in Beacon and shares the same success in how it serves it’s community. Designed in an esthetically pleasing manner, this park entertains tots six years and under with a rock tunnel, bouncers, seesaws, an enormous sandbox, (the sand gets changed as needed for health and safety reasons), and hopes to add a Toddler Town Playhouse, Drive Thru and Trike Path. The park is supported and maintained by the Friends of the Tots Park volunteers. You can support the park and the ongoing maintenance by logging on to http://www.totspark.blogspot.com./ If you want to add to the adventure of the day, starting from the Newburgh Landing, a morning ferry across the Hudson River can be taken to the Beacon train station. From there, it is just a hop on to the Metro North train, getting off at the Cold Spring stop. Bring a supply of cold water for refreshment as the climb up the hill to the park is steep, but the reward of the park is great. You can find out about the ferry schedules at http://www.mta.info/mnr/html/raillink/newburghferry.htm and train schedules athttp://www.cfdcny.org/page30001.cfm
http://www.mta.info/mnr/index.html.
It is comforting to know that we don’t have to spend much of our hard earned money, or even none at all, to have a relaxing and memorable time with our families. All we need is a brown bagged lunch, plenty of water to re-hydrate with and the desire to spend real quality time with the little ones in our lives.
References:
http://www.townofnewburgh.org./
http://www.weeplayproject.org/
http://www.totspark.blogspot.com./
www.mta.info/mnr/html/raillink/newburghferry.htm
http://www.mta.info/mnr/index.html.
Spring has sprung and summer is on the horizon. As we step outside our doors, we are welcomed by the songs of the Robbins, the sweet aromas of young blooms and the sense of hope for today and even tomorrow. The struggling forces of the economy and the government, can be forgotten, even if just for an afternoon. Finding retreat from the woes that surround us can be found right in our neighborhoods of the Hudson Valley. Better yet, they can be found for little to no cost at all. Pack a picnic lunch and grab the kids as we venture off to three local parks in the Town of Newburgh, Beacon and Cold Spring.
We begin with Chadwick Lake Park, located on Route 300, just north west of the junction with Route 32. In recent years, the park has seen a multitude of renovations that has made the park a local hot spot with the families of the area. Offering a fantastic children’s park that includes jungle gyms, swings, rock climbing walls and gigantic climb and slide apparatuses, this section was designed with the 6 years and under age group in mind. Accompanying adults have several benches to rest upon while watching their little ones play hard. If you pack a lunch or snack, you can find a spot under the nearby pavilion to take shade and fuel up for a second round of fun. In addition, Chadwick Lake Park boasts amenities such as bocce, basketball, boating, fishing, a roller hockey rink, an ice skating rink when seasonably reasonable and a picturesque walking trail that encircles the lake. An annual permit is needed to utilize the park, with the resident fee being $15 per household, non-residents at $30. However, if grandma and grandpa are senior residents, they get to bring the grandkids for free! More information on the park can be found by logging on to http://www.townofnewburgh.org./ Click on the "Recreation" tab and look for Chadwick Lake Park. Information calls can be handled at the Ranger Station at (845)564-0608.
Let’s cross the river and enter the City of Beacon. Again, with the age group of six and under in mind, we can gather at the Wee Play Children’s Park within the grounds of the Beacon Memorial Park. Conveniently located on Fishkill Avenue, the park grounds are vast and varied. The newly designed park has many of the same great attributes that the Children’s Park at Chadwick Lake offers. Phase I of this park was completed in 2006 with two more phases on the plan books. Besides the playground, there is also a Children’s Garden in the works. Combined, the park provides for both educational and recreational needs. Walk the path up the wooded hill to find shaded areas with picnic tables and grills, a wonderful retreat from the sun! If you find yourself in the mood, just across the street is Ron’s Ice Cream, a refreshing way to end your day in the park. Through the Wee Play Project, the Beacon Recreation and Highway Departments and donations from local residents, the dream of this park is coming true. Visit http://www.weeplayproject.org/ to see how you can still contribute to the future phases of this park.
It is likely that any tot in Cold Spring, NY can tell you about Tiny Tots Play Park. This park was the inspiration for the Wee Play Park in Beacon and shares the same success in how it serves it’s community. Designed in an esthetically pleasing manner, this park entertains tots six years and under with a rock tunnel, bouncers, seesaws, an enormous sandbox, (the sand gets changed as needed for health and safety reasons), and hopes to add a Toddler Town Playhouse, Drive Thru and Trike Path. The park is supported and maintained by the Friends of the Tots Park volunteers. You can support the park and the ongoing maintenance by logging on to http://www.totspark.blogspot.com./ If you want to add to the adventure of the day, starting from the Newburgh Landing, a morning ferry across the Hudson River can be taken to the Beacon train station. From there, it is just a hop on to the Metro North train, getting off at the Cold Spring stop. Bring a supply of cold water for refreshment as the climb up the hill to the park is steep, but the reward of the park is great. You can find out about the ferry schedules at http://www.mta.info/mnr/html/raillink/newburghferry.htm and train schedules athttp://www.cfdcny.org/page30001.cfm
http://www.mta.info/mnr/index.html.
It is comforting to know that we don’t have to spend much of our hard earned money, or even none at all, to have a relaxing and memorable time with our families. All we need is a brown bagged lunch, plenty of water to re-hydrate with and the desire to spend real quality time with the little ones in our lives.
References:
http://www.townofnewburgh.org./
http://www.weeplayproject.org/
http://www.totspark.blogspot.com./
www.mta.info/mnr/html/raillink/newburghferry.htm
http://www.mta.info/mnr/index.html.
Welcome!
This is a space for me to share my writings with the public. Writing has always been a pleasure for me. It has become clear to me that I have a need to share my writings with others. All works that are posted here are my own original works. None of these writings can be copied or used in any way without my written consent. Utilizing these works in any unauthorized manner will be considered as a form of plagiarizing and will result in any and all legal action deemed necessary to rectify. Please respect the effort and passion put into these works by respecting the author. Having stated that, please read on. I truly hope you enjoy, as writing to bring emotion and thought to you is my purpose and pleasure.
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