HSLDA German Family Update

Here is the latest news from HSLDA in regard to the German family that I posted about earlier:

HSLDA Condemns German Court
for Jailing Homeschool Parents

June 19, 2008

On Wednesday, June 18, a district court in the German state of Hesse sentenced Jurgen and Rosemary Dudek each to three months in prison simply because they homeschool their seven children.

HSLDA condemns this court ruling in the strongest possible terms. Good parents who love and care for their children should never be sentenced to prison for doing what is best for their children. Germany is a Western nation and should know better.

HSLDA will be helping the Dudeks with their appeals, but German courts have so far consistently ruled against homeschoolers.

More information will be forthcoming as this story develops, and we will keep you informed. In the meantime, please remember the Dudeks in your thoughts and prayers. The family welcomes notes of encouragement which can be sent to:

Family Dudek
Friedrichstr. 6
37293 Archfeld—GERMANY

Thank you for your interest and support of homeschooling freedom in the Federal Republic of Germany.

This continues to touch my heart. If you feel the least bit compelled, please write this family. I cannot imagine their heartache.

Arte y Pico Award

I was given this award by my new friend Patsy at Patsy's Words of Wisdom. I clicked on a link for her camping post. I felt an immediate kinship. We share a common interest in camping and having fun with grandchildren.

This award was created to be given to bloggers who inspire others with their creativity and their talents, also for contributing to the blogging world in whatever medium. When you receive this award it is considered a "special honor". Once you have received this award, you are to pass it on to 5 others. What a wonderful way to show some love and appreciation to your fellow bloggers!!!

The rules for passing this honor on are:

1) Pick 5 blogs that you would like to award this honor to. (This is the hard part--there are just so many good ones around it is very difficult to choose just five.)

2) Each award has to have the name of the author and also a link to his or her blog to be visited by everyone.

3) Each award winner has to show the award and put the name and link to the blog that has given her or him the award itself.

4) Award-winner and the one who has given the prize have to show the link of "Arte y Pico" blog, so everyone will know the origin of this award. Click here to visit the Arte y Pico blog.

Here are my five recipients:

1) Shelly at The Mom with Brownies, of course! I have known Shelly casually as a fellow home school mom for several years. Recently, we are getting to know each other better. I am immensely grateful for her guidance in the world of blogging. I am really having fun with this thanks to her!

2) Karen at My Funny Dad, Harry. This is another new blogging friend. Her site is dedicated to her dad. It is fun and inspirational. We have enjoyed some conversational exchanges, and I really enjoy her site...especially all the kitties! :-)

3) Dani at Mom's Crazy Life. I like to take a peek at what's going on here whenever I need a chuckle. Dani's stories just make me laugh!

4) Jolene at My Absent Mind. I like reading Jolene's stories of family and parenthood. She also has a food site worth checking out, Jo's Kitchen. Maybe you'd like to read it, Dani. JK - LOL

5) John's site at The Big Dog. What got my attention here is the video of the husky talking, "Our Dogs Talk." I enjoyed the post, and the video is worth watching. Dogs truly are amazing! John has other interesting bits on whatever topic happens to catch his interest at the moment. Worth checking out.

The Message Bible

Several months ago I started reading the Bible beginning in The New Testament. I have always preferred the traditional King James version. One morning I awoke and reached for my Bible, but it wasn't there. I had left it downstairs. My husband's new Bible, The Message , was there, and I picked it up. I have been reaching for it ever since.

The Message is a wonderful version done in the modern vernacular. It is so easy to read. I thoroughly enjoy it and often find it humorous. It is kind of funny to think of those from Bible Times speaking our language.

I was watching Joyce Meyer this morning, and she was discussing how God loves us and accepts us for who we are. He actually chose us. He is not angry with us. He loves us unconditionally. Verses from Ephesians kept coming up, so I thought I would share some of The Message Bible here with you.

Introduction to Ephesians taken from The Message:

What we know about God and what we do for God have a way of getting broken apart in our lives. The moment the organic unity of belief and behavior is damaged in any way, we are incapable of living out the full humanity for which we were created.

Paul's letter to the Ephesians joins together what has been torn apart in our win-wrecked world. He begins with an exuberant exploration of what Christians believe about God, and then, like a surgeon skillfully setting a compound fracture.
sets this belief in God into our behavior before God so that the bones-belief and behavior-knit together and heal.

Once our attention is called to it, we notice these fractures all over the place. There is hardly a bone in our bodies that has escaped injury, hardly a relationship in city or job, school or church, family or country, that isn't out of joint or limping in pain. There is much work to be done.

And so Paul goes to work. He ranges widely, from heaven to earth and back again, showing how Jesus, the Messiah, is eternally and tirelessly bringing everything and everyone together. He also shows us that in addition to having this work done in and for us, we are participants in this most urgent work. Now that we know what is going on, that the energy of reconciliation is the dynamo at the heart of the universe, it is imperative that we join in vigorously and perseveringly, convinced that every detail in our lives contributes (or not) to what Paul describes as God's plan worked out by Christ, "a long-range plan in which everything would be brought together and summed up in him, everything in deepest heaven, everything on planet earth."

Ephesians 3:14-19 from The Message:

My response is to get down on my knees before the Father, this magnificent Father who parcels out all heaven and earth. I ask him to strengthen you by his Spirit-not a brute strength but a glorious inner strength-that Christ will live in you as you open the door and invite him in. And I ask him that with both feet planted firmly on love, you'll be able to take in with all followers of Jesus the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love. Reach out and experience the breadth! Plumb the depths! Rise to the heights! Live full lives, full in the fullness of God. ~ Eph. 3:14-19

Do you do as Paul advises? What a challenge it can be for some of us to see God as, "Father". Is God your father? Do you call him, "Daddy"? Have you opened the door to Christ and invited him to live within you benefiting from His glorious inner strength? Have you planted both feet firmly in love and taken in the extravagant dimensions of Christ's love? Are you living the full life offered to you through God?

Does it seem a tall order? Again, I come back to how we start our day. Is yours started in The Word? Have you tried it? Did you notice a difference? Feel free to share your experiences here. I'd love to hear from you the difference shifting your focus from self to God and the service of others has made in your life.

In the Air

Today was the day that we sent our youngest daughter out on her first 'far-from-home' adventure. Amie Lynn left this morning for Georgia. This is her first trip on her own. This is her first experience with airplane travel. This is her first time out of the Midwest. Right at this very moment as I am typing this post she should be in the air.

I remember the very first time I flew. It was when I was 12 years old. I flew from Texas to Florida for a six-week visit with my grandparents. No, I didn't live in Texas. I had driven there with a family for a two-week visit there before heading to Florida. What an experience that was. I was uncomfortable then, and I am still uncomfortable with air travel to this day. Fortunately, God always places someone interesting in the seat next to me. Having a kind person to talk with really does a lot to pass the time and distract attention from fear.

Have you ever flown? Do you remember looking out the window and being above cloud-cover? Is that not one of the most beautiful things you have ever seen? I swear, it looks like you can just step right out of the plane and walk across the blanket of clouds. It's absolutely breath taking, and I really hope that she gets to experience the view for herself. She did choose a window seat, and she is flying in the daylight.

Oh, what an experience it must be for her. A young lady traveling alone across the country to visit her favorite person in the whole world, her "sister". Well, Becca really isn't her sister, but there are plenty of people who they have convinced otherwise. Becca is Amie's cousin by marriage, and they couldn't be closer. Becca just got married in April and moved to Georgia to be with her husband, Kevin, who serves in the Armed Forces. Kevin will be deploying to Iraq in a few weeks. Amie's trip to visit is our graduation gift to her. What is better than an adventure?

In a Vegan World

I just finished reading The Real Forbidden Fruit: How Meat Destroys Paradise and How Veganism Can Get it Back by Jeff Popick. It was very compelling. Once I began reading I just could not seem to stay away from this book. I found it challenging and thought provoking.

Mr. Popick very effectively conveys his perspective on how the consumption of meat has destroyed any possibility of peace and harmony in our human existence. The idea that it was really meat that destroyed paradise as opposed to an apple or fig challenges conventional thinking. This book will likely make it to my bookshelf as it is currently borrowed from the library. Seriously, I had to force myself to not mark this one up with notations and underlines. I will most certainly read it again.

Over the weekend it was tremendously challenging to not eat any animal products. I was so compelled while reading this that I just couldn't bring myself to do it. We were traveling, and I was not prepared with my own food. Not to mention we were unfamiliar with the area. I made do with what was available and ate quite well despite my unplanned vegan weekend.

Mr. Popick's perspective is practical and rather genious. One might wonder, "Why did I never think of it that way?", as you progress through the chapters. A familiar saying in our house is appropriate here: "Common sense isn't so common."

Reading this book has brought me back to my college days of being a vegetarian. I was a vegetarian back when everyone thought it was lunacy. I was compelled by a PETA magazine that landed in my hands. I just could not deal with the reality of how animals are treated by factory farmers. I could not contribute to their pain and suffering.

There were no real good products on the market. I didn't have the Internet or access to yummy cookbooks via the public library, or any other source for that matter. I just winged it so to speak. We ate some very bad tasting food while I traveled my learning curve. Now there are SO MANY resources that there is just no excuse for not eating very yummy and satisfying vegan meals.

Somehow I ended up back to my Standard American Diet (SAD), overweight, and discontent. I fell back to my roots. Within the past few years I have been trying to make my way back to a vegetarian based diet making more "conscious" eating choices. I have avoided grocery store purchased meats, eliminated cow's milk, and dramatically reduced other forms of dairy such as cheese and eggs.

Mr. Popick further challenges my thinking in that being a conscious consumer is still damaging. Eating any animal products and using any products that contain animal byproducts is just plain imoral. This has really challenged my thinking. He makes a very compelling argument.

From the back cover:

• "Meatism" blocks our connection to God; veganism facilitates it - no religion required!
• "Meatism" fosters suffering across the planet; veganism eliminates.
• "Meatism" is destroying the environment; veganism is the ONLY way to save it.
• "Meatism" actually creates famine; veganism produces abundance.
• Veganism isn't about eating lettuce and tofu...vegan food is AMAZING!
• Veganism doesn't cure disease...it eradicates it.
• Veganism isn't a "diet"...it's a way of life. (But have you ever seen an obese vegan?)
• Veganism is the ONLY proper way to love animals...And people.
• Veganism is mandated by God...on PAGE ONE of the Bible.
• Meat is The Real Forbidden Fruit; veganism is the key to Paradise.

PayPerPost

After an eight-month long journey, being scammed, and finding myself completely frustrated with everything related to earning money Online I discovered PayPerPost. My good friend, Shelly at The Mom with Brownies, took me under her wing. One of the things she shared with me is the opportunity to earn money through blogging with Pay Per Post.

I am so excited to be involved in such a fun opportunity. PayPerPost offers moms like me who stay at home and educate their children an honest and fun way to contribute to the family income. It is my goal to pay off the debt incurred by our earlier exploits Online in an attempt to create multiple streams of income thereby making this an ongoing part of our life and a contributing source of income.

Creating, maintaining, and editing a personal blog is a great adventure. It's a wonderful opportunity to create a valuable resource, share family happenings, record special events, share a valuable cost, etc. The possibilities are endless. What's more is that you can actually earn money doing something so fun and simple.

PayPerPost has enabled me to meet other bloggers, get to know fellow homeschoolers better, and create a fun income source. Blogging is a wonderful creative outlet and simple way to share with family, friends, and the world at large. Why not get paid for writing about things that interest you? Check out blog ads at PayPerPost to learn more about their marketplace, how it works, and how it can benefit you.

Boot Camp Visit

Well, we made it safely to Chicago for Andrew's graduation from Navy Sea Cadet Boot Camp at Great Lakes Naval Academy. It was a great experience and very nice to see Andrew for a few hours.

He really seemed to enjoy himself, but he was glad to be moving on to new scenery. He did very well and learned a lot in such a short period of time. The Sea Cadets had the privilege in attending an actual ceremony where Navy Recruits become real enlisted Seamen. It seemed to have had a profound effect on him. He found the experience very emotional. Pat and I both feel that this experience will contribute greatly to his success when he attends actual Navy Boot Camp at the time of his enlistment. No, he has not changed his mind.

I truly believe that being in the military is Andrew's calling. This child has lived and breathed everything military ever since he was five years old. As a mother I never could have imagined myself encouraging any of my children to be in the military. At a certain point I came to the realization that I simply had no choice in the matter. This child was born to serve.

Now, it is a real pleasure for Pat and I to watch Andrew learn and grow into a polite and responsible young man right before our eyes. It is an even greater pleasure to be an active participant in the realization of his dream. How refreshing it is to see someone know exactly what they want, put goals in place to ensure success, and work toward an end goal daily. It is so awesome!

Andrew is now at Fort Custer in Battle Creek for a two-week Hazardous Materials Training. We will be attending another graduation soon. BRAVO ZULU, Andrew!

Getting Along

Relationships sure are work! I have been known to say that if we really knew what marriage was all about none of us would ever say, "I do." Why is it that no one really gets clued in on how to be in a healthy relationship?

As I've gotten older it has come to my attention that there are a few very important things that get left out of our so called education; healthy communication - especially in regard to marriage and parenting, personal finances, and death. How is it that we spend the first 20 years of our lives trying to grow up and become independent, yet there is no one there guiding us in the most important aspects of our life here on earth?

I am sure there are a few people out there that maybe received a beneficial education on the above aspects of life, maybe a few more were educated on one or two of the facets, but it is my belief that the majority of us come up from infancy ill equipped for much of anything. Sure, we may learn a trade, gain an inheritance, or have access to a higher education, but do we really have any clue what to do with it?

Personally, I have taken it upon myself to become educated in the areas that are most important to me. This likely came about from my unschooling journey with my children. What a better life it is when we are following our inner calling. If something is interesting, explore it with gusto. When you discover a certain something to have value in your life take it in with passion. There is so much information at our fingertips. Surely there is a resource available for just about anything we may feel we are lacking or desire to have more knowledge about or experience with. What was that old saying? "Where there's a will, there's a way."

I have taken it upon myself to become educated in communication with my husband and my children, primarily. Certainly other areas of my life will benefit. Communication is so challenging, frustrating even. I remember having a discussion with my oldest son in regard to just exactly what did self-control mean. His take was that he was directing his actions so that was self-control. I am striving for the bigger picture. The space where I am conscious in my life and in control of my emotions and behavior. For those of you that have never really made this a priority, I assure you it is likely the most challenging thing to do. It really gives you a new perspective on that whole, "What would Jesus do?" push.

When we truly take the time to think about our reactions, control our tone of voice, see things from the perspective of someone else, choose not to speak, or think before opening our mouths, WOW...what a practice in self-control!

10 Reasons to Read

1. Reading is rewarding.

2. Reading builds mature vocabulary.

3. Reading makes you a better writer.

4. Reading is "hard", but hard is necessary.

5. Reading makes you smarter.

6. Reading prepares you for the world of work.

7. Reading well is financially rewarding.

8. Reading opens the door to the university.

9. Reading arms you against oppression.

10. Reading develops a moral compass.

HSLDA ~ German Family Faces Trial

As a home school mom I find myself constantly interested in the goings on of fellow home school families around the world, especially Germany. Here is a story from my most recent HSLDA newsletter that you may find interesting:

HOME SCHOOL LEGAL DEFENSE ASSOCIATION

HOME SCHOOLING / INTERNATIONAL

Germany

June 17, 2008

German Family Faces Trial, Possible Jail Time for Homeschooling

The Dudek family in Archfeld, Germany will be tried on June 18 for homeschooling their children. The Dudeks have quietly and successfully educated their children at home in obedience to God but in the face of Germany’s restrictive laws regarding homeschooling.

The family faces German prosecutor Herwig Mueller, who appealed the previous judge’s ruling that the family be fined. Prosecutor Mueller believes that a fine is insufficient to punish the Dudek family for homeschooling and told the family, “You don’t need to worry about the fine, because I am going to send you to jail.”

The Dudeks homeschool their seven children because of their religious convictions, and they have done well. One of their older son recently received the highest marks in a public school evaluation. The Dudeks are heartbroken at the thought of having to choose between their home and homeschooling.

In Germany, courts have decided that it is an abuse of parental rights to homeschool. Many German homeschooling families face a stark choice—hide or flee. This is not a choice that citizens of a free democratic country should face for homeschooling. Germany’s behavior and treatment of parents who homeschool is outside the boundaries that should be tolerated by freedom-loving nations. In fact, in response to a question recently about homeschooling, Jan Figel, the Commissioner for Education for the European Union, stated that even though education is a national issue, parents should have the right to decide what is best for their children, and that this right is protected by the European Charter.

In spite of this, the German Federal Government passed a law to make it easier for the Youth Welfare Office to take children who are “endangered”—a term that is not defined in the new law and would allow for complete discretion on the part of authorities to decide and when and how to intervene in a family. The Youth Welfare Office has shown a willingness to seize children of homeschooling families in the past, as in the case of Melissa Busekros and others.

The Dudeks are grateful for the prayers and encouragement they have received from homeschoolers in America and other countries. They feel that they are not alone, and they are confident that regardless of the judicial outcome, they are following their convictions and the calling of God.

HSLDA asks all of our praying members to remember the Dudek’s this week as they face this trial. Their brave example helps to point out the outrageous behavior of a so-called “free country” and demonstrates what we in America know—that freedom isn’t free—it is purchased with a price. The Dudek’s are confronted with the cost of following their convictions. And their example is one we should remember as we consider our own freedom.

© Site Copyright 1996-2008 Home School Legal Defense AssociationP.O. Box 3000 · Purcellville, VA 20134-9000 · Phone: (540) 338-5600 · Fax: (540) 338-2733 · E-mail: info@hslda.org

Boot Camp Pictures

I just checked the web site for the Sea Cadet Boot Camp, and they have pictures available. After wading through them I did manage to find some of Andrew.

It looks like they are working very hard. We did get a letter home. It was too funny! He was commenting on how he bets the food for Father's Day was so good and better than the food there. Not that the food is too bad there, but mom's food is the best. Gotta love that kid!

We are really looking forward to attending his graduation this Sunday at the Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois. There will be over 700 family members in attendance for the cadets.

Andrew is fourth back on the left.

Getting the famous military hair cut!

Running the track ~ second back on the left.


Third back, third row from the left.

Responsibility to Protect?

It has been years now that I have been hearing about the genocide in Darfur. This morning I viewed a PBS airing of Frontline's production, "On Our Watch", originally aired in November of 2007. This continues to break my heart.

Despite the ongoing crisis little has been accomplished. The genocide started in Darfur in 2003. Individuals have gotten involved, but the United Nations has been unable to accomplish much. Refugees remain in danger and in need of assistance. There is great need for security, shelter, medical care, and food.

There were eight resolutions through the United Nations in 2006. Specifically, number 1706 was seen as an opportunity to finally make a difference. It provided the impetus to boost troops in the region. Unfortunately, this offered little relief. The genocide expanded crossing the imaginary border between Sudan and Chad.

A grass-roots organization, Save Darfur Coalition, has amassed a large following including big name stars like George Clooney. This non-profit organization has managed to gain the support of 54 universities, 20 states, and 9 cities that have all restricted investments in Sudan and Chinese oil companies. The Chinese have hindered the ability to offer relief to the people of Darfur supporting the government of Sudan.

The Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court has managed to bring charges against some of the perpetrators in Sudan, but the government refuses to hand them over. It has been stated that Darfur is not important enough globally to warrant the necessary action from the United Nations. Darfur Activist, Eric Reeves, launched a campaign against China called, The 'Genocide Olympics'. This campaign has gotten much attention.

The 26,000 troops that were authorized for deployment to Darfur as protectors to civilians is merely political progress. It is just too little, too late.

Resources for further information:

A Problem from Hell by Samantha Power

A Long Day's Dying by Eric Reeves

The Best Intentions by James Traub

MiaFarrow.org

TheBostonReview.net

PBS.org

The Graduate

This year is a landmark year for our family. We just graduated our first home schooler! Amie Lynn Smith is our first home school graduate and youngest daughter. We are so excited to be with her as she ventures into the next chapter of her life.

Amie will be starting at Macomb Community College in the fall. She will be working toward a business degree. After she earns her Associates in Business she plans to continue her education at the Michigan School of Mayomassology.

This is a very exciting time for our family. Amie will be living at home while she pursues her continued education taking full advantage of the family support system. What a joy it is to be partners with her as she explores her interests.

Making Memories

About a week ago, Pat and I took two of our grandchildren, Harmony and Dustin, to the Detroit Zoo along with our youngest son, Adrian. What a great time we had! It was so much fun to see the kids get excited about the animals, the fountain, and the train.

Despite the fact that it was so hot that day it was pure joy for all of us to experience elements of nature that are rare and exciting. How often do we see a flamingo or a penguin? Harmony just loved the penguins. Although, it did take her a few minutes to warm up to the reptile house.

The highlight for Dustin was the train. Oh, how he loved the train! We had a great time sharing in his joy. Isn't it fun to watch the uninhibited enthusiasm of a child? He was so excited!

Our time was maximized due to the fact that we went prepared. We all had our hats, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks and water. We had everything that we needed to stay comfortable and healthy without having to spend a ton of money while we were there. Although, since our membership does give us a discount in the gift shops, we did get the little ones a memento from the day.

Despite the fact that they are two and almost three both of the young ones remember our day at the zoo. Harmony asks if we are going to see the animals every time she comes over now. Even Adrian, 14 years old, enjoyed the day and looks forward to going back. I am sure we will see many visits to the Detroit Zoo before our pass expires next year.

Where are your thoughts?

God has been at work in my life, and I am SO thankful! Whether or not we realize it, God is always faithfully there by our side. I cannot imagine what might have happened to me when I was younger had God not sent his angels to care for me. What a blessing it is to be a child of God!

Do you think on these things? Where are your thoughts? Are you thankful for what you have, or are you wallowing in the "have-nots"? What is in the forefront of your mind when you wake in the morning? Are your thoughts on good things? Do you thank God for what you have each morning, or do cry about what you think is missing?

Our thoughts are so powerful! What do you do with the power God has given you? It has become very evident to me that being positive is likely the best thing we can do for our self and for God. What is God to do with a "Gloomy Gus"?

Maybe things are bad. Maybe you are dealing with something that is difficult or frustrating. What is the more fruitful action to take? Should you sit around, mope, and complain? Rather, would it be better to rejoice in what you have, and be hopeful?

There was a time when I wallowed in misery. I'll tell you. It got me nothing but more misery. Once I learned to change my thought pattern I was so blessed. Perspective is powerful, and we do possess the power to re-frame our thinking.

Today, think on things that are good. Combat negative thinking with positive thinking. Better yet, combat negative thoughts with scripture. God has given us HIS WORD so that we may learn and grow and face struggles with His power.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).

Happy Father's Day!

Today's sermon at church was about Joseph the earthly father of Jesus. We hear a lot about Mary, but not much is said about Joseph. There is a lot we can learn from his willingness to follow God, accept a pregnant wife, and father a child not of his own seed.

Did God have a purpose in choosing Joseph as the earthly father of Jesus? All of God's actions are with purpose. Joseph was a loving man. He made Mary his priority. Joseph protected Jesus despite the fact that he was not his biological son. He was a man of faith.

What do we learn about faith from our parents? Whether or not we realize it we are constantly influenced by the actions of those around us. Who better to determine our character than our parents.

What kind of role model are you to your children and the youth of your community?

How do you live your life?

What ethics are you teaching?

What do you teach the next generation?

You may not have a lot of time. What are you doing with yours?

Joseph was a man of character and strong morals. Maybe it is time we thought about Joseph and the example he set before us. Our society has been systematically destroying the integrity of our families. We need our fathers. Fathers are protectors, teachers of the proper use of power, instillers of work ethic, demonstrators of respect, and examples of morality.

What kind of father are you?

The Silence Before The Heroism

Posted on June 3rd, 2008

by Nancy Reyes in All News, Breaking News, Iraq War, Pennsylvania News, Society and Culture, The War on Terror, US News

Today, President Bush presented the Medal of Honor to the parents of Pfc Ross McGiness.

When a grenade was thrown into the hatch of his Humvee, McGiness, who was the gunner, chose not to jump out and save his own life, but to jump down and protect his buddies with his body to save them. He died, but the other four lives were saved by his actions.

NYTimes photo at right.

In a day when anti heroes are the norm, and any war news is twisted to make soldiers either sadists or victims, previous medal of honor winners barely made the headlines, so I was glad that both the NYTimes and the LATimes included the story in their papers.

Yet those who don’t go past the headlines will say: Great guy, and then go on, figuring his life has no lesson for anyone else. Alas, there are probably a few people out there who will ridicule his actions, being brought up in a world of cynicism and nihilism where risking one’s life for others is considered dumb.

So I was happy thatJames Hohman of the LATimes actually went past the hard facts and data to find the motives of Pfc McGuiness:

A month before, a similar situation had occurred with another convoy. When a grenade landed inside a Humvee, the gunner jumped out, as he had been trained to do. That grenade turned out to be a dud. “In the days that followed, McGinnis said he didn’t know what he would do,” Buehler said. “I felt the same way. It’s hard to say what you’d do.”

Yes, it is hard to say what any of us would do. But those of us who have lived in danger know that the choice is made before the action, and the choice is made in the dark night when the demons of fear and confusion gnaw at the soul. What if….what if…One is faced with the worse things that can happen, and one never knows if when the time comes if courage or fear will rule one’s actions. But it is in the darkness of the night that the rehersals for the “What if’s” are done, and the real choice is made.

So in a world where kids are taught to live for oneself, a young man rehearsed in his mind what he should do.

Like Navy SEAL Michael Monsoor, who died when he too shielded his friends from a grenade blast, or like my classmate, Michael Crescenz, who attacked the snipers nest so that the wounded could be rescued, or like the firemen and police who risk their lives every day so that others can live,we have heroism all around us. And once in awhile, we need to pause and spend a moment to recognize that heroes still exist, and to say a prayer for the ones who give their lives so others may live

Off to Boot Camp

Our oldest son, Andrew, left for Boot Camp today. He is 16 and in the Navy Sea Cadets. He will be in Chicago at the Navy base for a week. Next Sunday we will get to watch him graduate in a formal military ceremony. We are really looking forward to seeing his accomplishments.

Andrew has wanted to be career military ever since he was five years old. When he was little I always thought he would grow out of it; just a little boy's fantasy. Well, here we are 11 years later, and he is still focused on being career military. I never thought I would encourage any of my children to go into the service. Now, how can I not?

My aunt put it this way, "God needs people everywhere." That one sentence really got my attention. It is sound logic. It seems that is what he was born to do. God gives us all gifts, and it is up to us to pursue them. We are very proud of Andrew.

He has solid goals. Andrew is in marital arts and plans to achieve his black belt before entering the service. He also plans to achieve rank in Sea Cadets and earn his associates degree before he enlists. It is impossible to do anything but help him figure out how to make his dreams come true.

Click here to learn more about the Navy Sea Cadets.

Poverty Free World?

Is it possible for the world to be without poverty? Can people be empowered to rise above financial constraints? One man believes it is surely possible, and his name is Muhammad Yunus. I watched an interview with him on the Canadian show, The Hour, last night. It was compelling.

It is the vision of Muhammad Yunus to totally eradicate poverty from the world. He started the Grameen Bank Project in 1976 with a mere $27 from his own pocket. Owned by the poor borrowers of the project became an actual bank in 1983 under a new law created especially for its creation in Bangladesh. Now the Grameen Bank serves more than 7 million families in over 81,000 villages.

Muhammad Yunus recently won the Nobel Peace Prize for his unique concept of micro credit. Micro credit has been used in Bangladesh, India to dramatically change the lives of many families. The concept is to empower families with small loans to get out of debt and become entrepreneurs. Women make up 97% of the loan holders through Grameen Bank.

The difference is changing our thinking from consumer business to social business. Consumer business benefits the company and it's share holders. Social business benefits the community at large. The commitment of a social business entrepreneur is to make a difference in the world as opposed to the consumer business entrepreneur whose sole purpose is to maximize profits. Which kind of entrepreneur would you like to be?

For further study read, Creating a World Without Poverty byMuhammad Yunus.

Stinkin' Thinkin'

I was watching Joyce Meyer this morning while I ate my breakfast, and she was talking about how important it is to have an attitude of hope. In my experience this makes such a difference in our day to day living and our overall health. The power of thought is just amazing, and we can be unaware of the impact of our thought process on our daily lives.

Joyce calls negative thought stinkin' thinkin', and I think she's right on. One point that was made in the airing I viewed this morning is that it is better to live a miserable life with the benefit of hope than it is to just live a miserable life while being miserable in it. What would be better: being broke and happy, or being broke and sad? Happy trumps misery all the time.

Unfortunately, we can get caught up in our stinkin' thinkin' very easily. Does your perspective need some tweaking? This is when we really need each other. It is important to surround ourselves with positive, hopeful people. Again, I find myself back to the idea of a support system. We all need a circle of friends that are uplifting and real. We need people to remind us of the good things in our lives when all we can see are the bad.

Today, if your focus is a little out, spend some time re-framing your thoughts. It may help to make a list of all the positive things in your life. If it is difficult at first, list a negative. Then, counter with related positive. There is ALWAYS a positive side to everything. Sometimes we just need to look a little more closely.

As suggested previously, don't forget to start your day with conversation with God. It pays great dividends to start out in the right direction. With God on our side, who can be against us?

Sea of Love by The Honeydrippers

Do you remember when we met
That's the day I knew you were my pet
I want to tell you how much I love you

Come with me, my love
To the sea, the sea of love
I want to tell you how much I love you

Come with me, to the sea

Do you remember when we met
That's the day I knew you were my pet
I want to tell you how much I love you

GUITAR SOLO

Come with me, to the sea

Come with me, my love
To the sea, the sea of love
I want to tell you how much I love you

Come with me to the sea

The First Guy that Ever Bought Me Flowers

It is times like these that I feel my dad's genes at work in my psyche. I just watched the movie, Juno, with my son. I am feeling very melancholy. You see, it's about this 16-year-old girl that has the greatest personality. She really is more wise than she realizes. Well, her and this guy, kind of the geek type, get busy in a chair. Needless to say, upon the wand appears a pink cross.

Juno handles the situation herself with a wonderful support network. In the end an unplanned baby gets a mother, and a young girl finds true love. The soundtrack for this movie is awesome and well worth owning. It is the soundtrack, however, that led me to my current mellow, melancholy state.

There once was a guy named Pete, and we had a song. He was amazing, funny, true, and kind. We both had braces, and we had so much fun together. One day we had a fight. I never saw him again. He died in a terrible car accident in which his sister was driving and narrowly escaped with her own life. Pete wasn't the only one that left us that day. There were others that passed in the same accident. It was so unbearably painful.

There was a school function. He was supposed to be there, but he never made it. I never got to say, "I'm sorry." Isn't it amazing how once we are gone life just keeps moving? It seems like time should stand still, but it doesn't. The grass grows. The sun rises and sets. The Sea of Love lives on in movies like, Juno. Yes, that was our song. Yes, I still think of him from time to time. And, yes, he was the first boy to ever give me flowers.

The Daily Groove

I have been receiving daily emails on parenting from Scott Noelle for well over a year. I just love his insite and guidance. I thought I would share his most recent email here. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do

THE DAILY GROOVE ~ by Scott Noelle

Do you ever feel like your child is "running your life"? This Tuesday at 7pm/PT (10pm/ET) members of my group coaching program are invited to join me for a conference call to discuss how to avoid coercive parenting without feeling coerced yourself. Details in the member forums.

Not a member yet?

See Group Coaching

The One-Body Principle

Suppose your right leg began twitching for no apparentreason. If it persisted, you'd do something about it.You might massage your leg or take some vitamins that support nerve functions.

But you wouldn't yell at your leg or threaten to hurt it! Nor would you ignore it and think, "It's the leg'sproblem, not mine." Such responses wouldn't make sense because your leg is a part of YOU.

Likewise, when your child's behavior seems unreasonable, you can overcome the temptation to react negatively by responding to your child as if s/he were a part of your body.

Like the parts of your body, your child functions well when you pay attention to his or her signals and, instead of resisting those signals, you do your best to honor and respond to them.

There's no blame; you just deal with it. Today, imagine you and your child are like one body and notice how that perspective affects your interactions.

Click Here to view article Online.

Feel free to forward this message to your friends!
(Please include this paragraph and everything above.)
Copyright (c) 2008 by Scott Noelle

Connecting Asia to Europe

Istanbul is located at Europe and Asia, the only city in the world that straddles two continents. An international team of engineers began the Marmaray Tunnel Project in the spring of 2004. This is a 3 billion dollar rail system that ties in 47 miles of commuter line with existing networks.

The main part of the project is a 1.2 mile tunnel that is being forged under the Bosporus Strait. Engineers discovered the remains of a Roman built harbor dating back to the 4th Century A.D. in Yenikaupa two miles away from the tunnel site in 2005.

This project involves a team of 750 people and thousands of artifacts. The discovery of the Roman harbor remains was a thrill to archaeologists. However, it has derailed the engineers bringing the project to a halt.

There are several theories as to the reason for the burial of the ancient Roman harbor. One theory is that it is merely covered in 700 years of river silt. The theory receiving more attention is that the covering of the harbor was due to a catastrophic natural disaster. Supporting this theory is the belief that the 15 ships discovered are thought to have sunk at the same time. The cause is believed to have been a tsunami resulting from an earth quake under the sea.

The idea that this area was so dramatically effected by a tsunami, and that it is located so closely to a fault line, has caused the engineers to rethink safety precautions. It is considered unlikely that the submerged tunnel would be effected by a tsunami, however there is concern about the seaside stations. They are being placed 15 feet above sea level and equipped with attached flood gates that operate automatically. History continues to inform engineers on crucial decisions involving this project.

Please visit National Geographic Explorer to view a video on this topic. For a blast from the past watch the video for Istanbul (not Constantinople) by They Might Be Giants.

Vegan Potato Salad

The humble spud! Is there a less expensive, more versatile food product out there? This version of potato salad is absolutely delicious. My 14-year-old son who cannot stand traditional mayonnaise based potato salad gave this one a try when I was testing the recipe for a cooking class. It earned two enthusiastic thumbs up from the pickiest eater in the house. What more encouragement do you need to give this one a whirl?

1/2 cup Cashews
1 teaspoon Salt
1/2 Tablespoon Honey
1/8 cup Lemon Juice
1/2 + 1/8 cup Boiling Water

Blend the above ingredients until smooth. This will seem a little thin compared to real mayonnaise. Upon refrigeration it will slightly thicken, so chill it while you prepare the ingredients listed below.

4 cups Potatoes, diced, cooked and cooled
1/4 cup Onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup Celery, finely chopped
1/2 Green Olives, diced

Combine above ingredients in large mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon Dill Weed to the mayonnaise, and mix all ingredients together. Cover and chill before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Making ME a Priority

There seems to always come a time, or two, when we get ourselves a little mixed up. Maybe we take on one too many projects, over commit ourselves, stay up too late one too many days, or just push our limits a little too far. The results are not usually positive. Maybe we become a little grumpy, or the bags under our eyes may require a luggage rack to be carted around. If food is your weakness, the choices you make may start leaving a little to be desired. Maintaining a balance in our lives requires dedication and being conscious. Paying attention to what our bodies are telling us is a great start.

According to Focal Point Yoga, "Unhealthy eating patterns are often caused by tension and stress. When you experience stress or negative emotions, you lose energy. Unconsciously, you want to eat to replace that lost energy."

In my research and struggles with weight I learned that I am an emotional eater. This was news to me. Honestly, I didn't have a clue about the emotions that can drive our choices in relationship to food. Last year my husband and I took a weight loss class through our church. It was eye opening. There were many references to Steven Arterburn's book, Lose it for Life. I decided to pick it up from my local library. It was profound and so intense that I had to put it down. It made my relationship with food raw, no pun intended. It touched me in places that I didn't know were sore.

From that point forward I made a personal commitment to work on me. What can I do to heal? How can I become a more grounded person? What do I need to do to more fully connect with God? How can I be aware of God's calling on my life? My priorities shifted once I became conscious in my life. It was both painful and freeing at the same time. Dealing with past issues that hurt can be just as real and just as painful now as they were then. The freedom comes in letting them go and accepting God's freely given grace.

Things I do that keep me whole, move me forward, and connect me to God:

• Spend time reading the Bible every day...even five minutes makes a difference. The reward seems to multiply if my day is started this way.
• Spend time faithfully communicating with God. We talk like friends now. It wasn't always that way for me.
• Connect myself to community through volunteering my time in what ever capacity I am needed and able to give freely.
• Connect myself through the church family. I have stepped outside of my comfort zone on more than one occasion, and I never regret it. The rewards are huge.
• Take time to consider my options before making decisions. This keeps me focused on what is important.
• Knowing that it is okay to say, "No", and actually saying it!
• Rediscovering my passions and exploring things that I enjoy.
• Spend time journaling at least a few times per week.

The above list is just a few things that are positive and consciously sought in my daily living. Surely you list will look different than mine. I encourage you to take the time to start a journal. Make a list of things that you can do to become a more conscious you. What do you enjoy doing? Seriously, take the time to think about it. You won't regret it.

If you seriously want to make the commitment to healing and becoming whole explore the book, Healing is a Choice, by Stephen Arterburn. Consider starting a group study with members of your church or a close circle of friends. You have nothing to lose...but your baggage.

Magazine Review: Backwoods Home Magazine

Self-Reliant Features with a Rural and Wilderness Slant

by Nick Howes

When you consider Backwoods Home Magazine, think of the old information-packed Mother Earth News before it got slick. It also has a political slant to the right, rather than left.

I've enjoyed the self-reliance articles this magazine is crammed with ever since I first came across it. Maybe some readers are put off by the occasional history-oriented articles, but those happen to appeal to me a lot.

Description

Backwoods Home Magazine: Practical Ideas for Self-Reliant Living is a bi-monthly, 8x10" size, with around 100 pages, numerous features and columns, well illustrated and very readable. I am going to focus here on my latest issue.

Issue #108

The latest issue in-hand is #108, Nov/Dec 2007. Cover blurbs promote articles on Preparedness Lessons, Perfect Holiday Meal, Talking with Horses, Dreams to Reality, Simple Composting, Build a Barrel Stove, and Questions about Global Warming. The last is actually a one-page editorial questioning the "givens" about global warming (is it real, is it man-made, is global warming bad?). I mentioned it does have a political slant to the right, but that's usually the most obvious in the one-page editorial.

The table of contents breaks down the list of features into Building and Tools (one article), self-reliance 9 articles (including Carbon Monoxide-the Silent Killer, Encounters with a Black Bear, Avoiding Deer on the Roadways, and These Rustic Easy to Make Candle holders Are a Great Gift Idea). There's one article under the Energy category (Solar Power Trailer, Part 1), one under Gardening (the cover-blurbed composting article), two under Recipes, and one under Country Characters (Talking with Horses, an Interview with Paul Brousseau).

The articles are easy to understand, illustrated with photos or, if called for, diagrams. There's an Irreverent Joke Page with items submitted by readers for no payment. Other regular features include Ayoob on Firearms (Thoughts on Ammunition) and Ask Jackie who answers questions about rural life (canning kraut, natural bug repellent, woodpeckers, alternative water system, canning lobster, squash recipes, dehydrating blueberries, and much more, even in this single issue).

Cost

The magazine runs $4.95 US each at the newsstand, $6.50 Canadian. I found it at Borders and have seen it at one or two other places. However, some time back the editors did indicate they were cutting back on newsstand distribution due to the expense, so they are urging subscription to make sure you get every copy at the best price, $23.95 a year, $44.95 for two years. The subscription address for check or money order is Backwoods Home Magazine, PO Box 712, Gold Beach, OR 97444. Credit card orders may call (800) 835-2418.

Website

Backwoods Home has a website which includes information on the current issue, subscription information, and the like. Of especial interest is the lengthy list of articles archived on the website. This extensive sampling covers a marvelous sampling of what they are all about with hundreds (no exaggeration) of listings under the categories History/Americana, Animals, Building/Tools, Commentary, Country Living, Crafts, Energy, Farm and Garden, Firearms/Hunting/Self Defense, Food./Recipes, Health, Home Schooling, Just for Kids, Making/Saving Money (always a topic of interest to me), People, Self-reliance, Smalltown America. If nothing else, check out the archives. A printable index of all articles Backwoods Home has run is available in PDF and EXCEL formats.

Final Comment

You can ignore the politics easily enough, if you want, but if you have any interested at all in the subject matter, you simply cannot pass up this magazine.

Creative Funding

Well, our daughter that just graduated this year was just denied any federal aid for college. Now it is time to get creative. I didn't rest too well last night in light of this realization. You see, we were counting on her getting financial aid. It never dawned on us that she wouldn't qualify for assistance. We have had three other children that have gone to school either all or in part through pell grants. Right now we are waiting to hear from the college on where to go from here. It sure would have been nice to know this bit of information before we budgeted our income tax refund!

Currently, we are actively trying to pay off debt. My husband was taken to the tune of about $7,000.00 through an Online "opportunity" gone awry. This really put us out of our comfort zone and makes the idea of paying out of pocket for college daunting. We are by no means rich. We are barely middle class. Biting it for college expenses is going to hurt us financially. It will be challenging to say the least. I actually found myself reading Living Well on a Shoestring by Yankee Magazine last night. To me most things like this seem common sense, but it is helpful to be reminded of conscious living strategies.

With a big move on the horizon, and simple living a priority, my husband and I have made it a priority to eliminate all debt minus our mortgage, eliminate any and all possessions that are not necessary for our existence, increase our savings, and continue to tithe no matter what. I don't know if you are a person that tithes regularly, but let me tell you. The minute we mess up and don't keep tithing a priority our finances go in the toilet. My experience has been that tithing makes the difference of whether or not we make it financially. Here are my suggestions for keeping your finances comfortable:

1. Tithe a minimum of 10% of your GROSS income.
2. Save a minimum of 10% of your GROSS income after tithing.
3. Pay your monthly obligations.
4. Any remaining money should be applied to your choice of the interest bearing debt with either the smallest balance or the highest interest rate. (Pick one, and pay on it until there is no remaining balance, then target a new account.)

This is by no means easy, and it may mean eating simply and living with no frills for a time, but your future is well worth the "sacrifice". We have chosen to change a few things this year in order to enable us to make financial progress. Some changes we made are:

1. Eliminate annual family vacation for summer of 2008.
2. Substantially reduce Christmas spending by making gifts ahead of time.
3. Stop eating out.
4. Eliminate or reduce the purchase of convenience foods and animal products eating mostly fresh produce, grains, and legumes.
5. Carpool whenever possible to save on gas use and expense.
6. Take on side work as much as possible and apply directly to debt.
7. Make all clothing purchases at resale stores or yard sales.
8. Wait longer to turn on air conditioning or heating using fans or blankets and slippers as necessary to reduce energy costs.
9. Have a yard sale and apply all earnings directly to debt.

This is by no means rocket science, but it does take commitment. By evaluating your income and expenses you can quickly find areas in which to cut back thereby freeing up money for what is needed; in our case paying for college unexpectedly. With a little dedication and perseverance your financial perspective can be altered for the better. If you desire more direction, Debt Free the Bible Way is a great resource.

BBQ Tofu

I recently assisted in the cooking portion of a talk given on hypertension at our church. Part of the purpose was to educate people on healthier food options. This is a delicious entree' that we served the participants.

BBQ Tofu

14 ounces Extra Firm Tofu (Firm may be used if Extra Firm is not available.)
Cut into 16 pieces, approximately 1/2" thick slices, and FREEZE.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Thaw tofu. Grease an 8x8 glass baking dish with 1/2 Tablespoon Olive Oil. Place thawed tofu in an even layer in glass baking dish.

Mix together the following:

1/4 cup Water
2 Tablespoons McKay's Beef Seasoning
1/8 teaspoon Garlic Granules
1/8 teaspoon Onion Powder

Pour over over tofu and bake for 30 minutes.

Prepare BBQ Sauce with the following ingredients while tofu is baking:

1/2 Tablespoon Olive Oil
1 Tablespoon Water
1/2 Medium Onion (about 3/4 cup)
1 Clove Garlic, minced

Saute' above ingredients together until onions are transparent. (do not burn)

Add the following ingredients:

8 ounces Tomato Sauce
1/4 cup Honey
1/4 cup Mustard Spread (see recipe)
1/4 cup Water
1/2 teaspoon Molasses
1/2 Tablespoon Dried Parsley
1/4 teaspoon Allspice
1/8 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
1-2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice

Stir into onion saute', bring to boil, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Add to tofu, and bake 15 minutes more.

Mustard Spread

Add ingredients to blender in order below. Blend until very smooth; about 2 minutes.

1/4 cup Cashews
1/2 Tablespoon Cornstarch
2 teaspoons Onion Powder
1 teaspoon Turmeric
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/2 teaspoon Paprika
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Granules
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
1 cup Boiling Water

Place in saucepan, and bring to boil stirring constantly. Chill before serving.

Remedies

It has been years since I have purchased an over the counter medication from a pharmacy or drug store. I have made it a priority to educate myself on the alternatives to chemical medications pushed on us by the government, lobbyists and the media. In doing so I discovered homeopathy.

Homeopathy has been a trusted means of wellness for 200 years. According to Samuel Hahnemann, the originator of the "like with like" theory, diluting and succussing (shaking) remedies, which homeopaths call potentisation, not only produced fewer side effects but also produced better results than the way of opposites, most commonly used by conventional medicine. This has been my experience over the last eight years or so that I have been using homeopathic remedies for myself and my family.

It is very easy to learn about remedies as well as locate and purchase them. You can do Internet research, consult a homeopath, visit your local vitamin shop or natural food store, or acquire a book on the subject from a book store or library. It is important to pay attention to the details of your symptoms. The more accurate you are with how your feel and what you are experiencing the easier it is to find the appropriate remedy for your circumstance. One book that I have relied on for years as a catalyst is The Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. It was recommended to me by a friend, and I have referenced it countless times over the years and even given it as a gift time and again.

If you are suffering from any ailment that has not been cured through conventional medicine, I highly recommend that you seek an alternative. Visiting your local health food store is a great place to start. You never know what you can learn when you venture outside of conventional thinking.

Seasonal Allergy Relief - Using a Neti Pot

According to eMedTv.com over 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. The immune system of an individual that suffers from allergies will react to a normally harmless substance. Examples of allergens that may cause an allergic reaction include:

Dust mites
Pet dander
Mold
Mildew
Pollen
Medication
Food
Insect bites

When a person experiences an allergic reaction their immune system is treating the substance as an invader and goes into attack mode. Even though this is a false alarm the symptoms generated are real. All allergies are caused by an unhealthy immune system. The immune system generates a compound called IgE antibodies releasing chemicals into the bloodstream. An allergic reaction can be anywhere from a mild inconvenience easily remedied on your own to a life threatening endeavor requiring medical attention.

Allergies fall into two categories. They can be annual or perennial with perennial allergies being the most difficult to treat. Annual allergies occur at specific times of the year, and perennial allergies can happen at various times throughout the year.

Common annual allergies:

Tree pollen
Grass pollen
Weeds
Fungi and mold

Common perennial allergies:

Dust and dust mites
Animals
Tobacco smoke
Fungi and mold

Common air-born allergy symptoms can include:

Sneezing
Running and/or stuffy nose
Itchy eyes, nose and throat
Watery eyes
Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye membrane)
Dark circles under the eyes
Eye swelling
One of the best ways to head off allergies is to eat a healthy diet. Consuming pleny of fruits and vegetables gives your body the nutrients it needs to help build a strong immune system. Other natural remedies include:

Consuming raw juices
Apple Cider Vinegar
Flax Seed Oil
Oil of Oregano
Daily Multi-Vitamin

In my personal experience in a lifetime of suffering from annual allergies including the perennial dust and mold allergies cleanliness is extremely important. Doing the following will help deter an allergic reaction and/or reduce current symptoms:

Wash hands and face regularly
Keep bedding and pillows laundered
Keep hair pulled back from face
Dust and vacuum carpet and furniture regularly
Use a vacuum that filters the air or wear a mask when cleaning
Run room air filters 24-hours per day
Bathe pets regularly
Seek chiropractic care
Use a neti pot to clean sinuses
Using a neti pot is something I discovered in the past year or so, and what a difference it has made for me. It is simple but does require a little practice. Neti pots have gained in popularity, so they are easily found at your local health store, department stores and Online at PeacefulCompany.com for your shopping convenience.

To use a neti pot remember the following tips:

Make sure neti pot is clean before use
Remember to put in the correct amount of salt
Use warm water
Tilt head at appropriate angle

Once you have experienced the benefits of cleaning your sinuses with a neti pot you will be so happy. It is such a simple way to reduce, maybe even eliminate, your allergy symptoms. I have experienced tremendous relief since discovering the neti pot. If you have severe allergies, you may want to use the neti pot several times per day. You may wish to visit Oprah.com for a demonstration on the use of a neti pot