The Conservative Thread: Back to Basics. Pass the Lasagna and Have a Flower!!

[Family Fun Mom]

My DD got the text telling her what happened about 8:35. She texted me. I thought the same thing about them finding him at home. But, after visiting with his parents, I know more. I just was so sad last night I couldn't put it in words.

The text to his mom, dad, sister and best friend was "I am so sorry. Goodbye. I love you all." He sent it at 6:46am from his ex-girlfriends driveway. Mark's boss is a police officer and heard the call go through dispatch around 6:53, I think. He called Mark to tell him. Pam, his mom, is a nurse and was writing reports just before shift change. Sarah and Mark were at home. He had taken Mark's car and rifle. Fortunately, the girl's dad heard it and grabbed her before she could go outside. He checked on Blake and called it in. Unfortunately, a school bus went by so some children saw the aftermath. The driver was able to radio the other buses to re-route. DD and I have both sent messages to Hannah, Blake's ex-girlfriend telling her we are thinking about her and praying for her. She is only 17. She went to one school. He went to another, but he had gone to the same school as she did last year. He transferred back to his old school this year when it looked like things may not work out with them.

God bless them all.

 

[mfd25wife]

God bless them all.

I am definitely praying a lot for all of them. Thanks!!!

I forgot to mention it was a 4 yr relationship. I made it sound like they just dated in the last year. My head is spinning.

 

[blestmom]

Saw this online, and thought the writer made some good points...

...any thoughts?

Unfortunately, no conservative candidate will ever again win enough delegates to clinch the nomination until the Republican Party addresses the fact that its current caucus/primary system is its own greatest enemy.

I believe the blueprint is now in place for conservatism's doom in the Republican party. We did not choose McCain; McCain was chosen for us by a front-loaded system favoring the "blue states" which would not (and did not!) vote for McCain in the general election anyway. If nothing changes, next caucus/primary season, the same thing will inevitably happen, the most moderate/centrist candidate will again be forced upon us.

Our first priority ought to be how we're going to clean up this mess.

 

[mfd25wife]

Saw this online, and thought the writer made some good points...

...any thoughts?

Unfortunately, no conservative candidate will ever again win enough delegates to clinch the nomination until the Republican Party addresses the fact that its current caucus/primary system is its own greatest enemy.

I believe the blueprint is now in place for conservatism's doom in the Republican party. We did not choose McCain; McCain was chosen for us by a front-loaded system favoring the "blue states" which would not (and did not!) vote for McCain in the general election anyway. If nothing changes, next caucus/primary season, the same thing will inevitably happen, the most moderate/centrist candidate will again be forced upon us.

Our first priority ought to be how we're going to clean up this mess.

 

[debbieandroo]

Saw this online, and thought the writer made some good points...

...any thoughts?

Unfortunately, no conservative candidate will ever again win enough delegates to clinch the nomination until the Republican Party addresses the fact that its current caucus/primary system is its own greatest enemy.

I believe the blueprint is now in place for conservatism's doom in the Republican party. We did not choose McCain; McCain was chosen for us by a front-loaded system favoring the "blue states" which would not (and did not!) vote for McCain in the general election anyway. If nothing changes, next caucus/primary season, the same thing will inevitably happen, the most moderate/centrist candidate will again be forced upon us.

Our first priority ought to be how we're going to clean up this mess.

I've heard the same thing - that dems vote in the Repub primaries in order for this to happen. Then again, the Repubs voted in the Dem primaries this year, too.

Like someone stated upthread - why does the Iowa caucus choose our president, anyway?

How does this change, anyway? Could we just start with some great people to begin with? I'd be cool with a Condi Rice, Hailey Barbour, Sarah Palin at the helm of any Repub ship - let them start out together, and see what happens.

 

[#1hockeymom]

She said it was worse today than yesterday. It's sinking in more, and they had to make the arrangements. She said maybe after the funeral she will start healing. Mark is strong, but so much is happening. Sarah, his 14 yr old sister is having a hard time. I don't know if I mentioned it or not, but he did send them all a text just before it happened. They still are not ready to talk to the girl, but it's not because they blame her. It just happened at her house, so they just can't yet. They feel horrible for her, also. They are talking about it at least to a few of us. I'm going to be there as much as I can without getting in the extended family's way. When they go back home, I will be helping his mom as much as possible, especially when his dad has to go back to work. Crisis teams from a local church and a health center went to both schools involved to try to help. DD and other friends of Blake and Hannah are trying to dispel rumors and half truths. It's not fair for kids to have to, but they are willing because they were friends with both.

I'm sad that DD has experienced a grandmother (my MIL) commit suicide and now a friend, also and she's only 16.

Thank you for the update. I was thinking about them earlier this evening. It is all so tragic. I have no words, but will continue to pray for his family and friends.

I have an idea about what you can do -- start off by allowing some political discussion - get it all out in the open. But gently remind the fam that you did not gloat when GWB won in 2000 and 2004 and that, remember, H only won 52% of the popular vote. You could say at this point that you've said your piece and that there are more things to talk about than politics.

Then, if someone wants to pop in with another dig/political discussion, you could just respond with some random fact ---

For example:

them: now that 'the one' will be in office, we'll really start seeing progress with the economy that GWB ruined these last years. what do you think, Deb?

you: I think it's really cool that dalmatian puppies are born without spots and they don't get them until they're 2 weeks old [or something equally as far out].

Keep plugging away at the random topics until it becomes clear that you're not going to engage. Maybe the kids could help, too.

[stole this idea from Bella by the way]

I already have planned this! My very first comment is planned though, and it is all about the Spartans beating the Wolverines! I'm guessing when I drop that bomb at DH's family's Thanksgiving dinner that the topic will quickly change to how much they hate State, that we cheated, how great U of M is, or something equally stupid. Political stuff GONE! LOL After 24 years I'm used to it. The last time State beat them they glared at me all through dinner. I looked up and said, "WHAT? Like its my fault your team sucks?" <---yes, this was really my quote.



Just in case you ohio people think I'm on your side. I do take Michigan's side for the big game! (btw, they really do suck this year so you're sure to win

 

[JB111107]

hey everyone...i'm EXHAUSTED! (but in a very good way!)

I'm trying to get myself back into "baby" mode and it has drained every ounce of energy I have! Jacob only wants to sleep when he's laying on mommy, therefore mommy isn't getting much rest herself.

He's doing great though, had his first pediatrician appt today, and he's up to 4lbs 9oz. Someday soon he's actually going to fit into his diapers and clothes!!

He had his first "outing" today, we took the kids to the APHA show (American Paint Horse Assn) where my DH's aunt works, and the kids got to watch exhibition rides, and go through the barns to see all the horses, talk to riders, watch the horses getting show-ready, etc. My daughter was in heaven.

 

[Jennifer S]

hi guys - my work is having a Friends and Family event today and tom. I have a code for 25% off your entire purchase. PM me if you want the code.

It's for Janie and Jack - sister store to Gymboree. Very cute children's clothing

www.janieandjack.com

Sorry I haven't been around. I try and look once a day but RL seems to be getting in the way. I'm going to try and catch up a little today.

 

[disneyholic family]

i read a commentary yesterday about why obama has bush to thank for being elected president...

but it's not what you think...

it's actually a no brainer, but i hadn't thought about it before..

the writer made the obvious point (though i hadn't thought of it) that what broke the ice for having a black president were President Bush's two black secretaries of state - powell and rice...

that that is what broke the ice...

i hadn't even thought of that for some reason..

the writer (who isn't a conservative or a republican) said that Bush was the first truly colorblind president since LBJ...

interesting that they're both Texans...

perhaps it's something about Texans...

anyway...

i hadn't thought about it before..

the writer said that all those people out there who think that Bush is just this side of satan should consider the fact that it was Bush who put blacks into the most senior position in the US government other than president - even higher than VP for all intents and purposes...

anyway.....it was an interesting commentary and something i hadn't thought of....

 

[rayelias]

Saw this online, and thought the writer made some good points...

...any thoughts?

Unfortunately, no conservative candidate will ever again win enough delegates to clinch the nomination until the Republican Party addresses the fact that its current caucus/primary system is its own greatest enemy.

I believe the blueprint is now in place for conservatism's doom in the Republican party. We did not choose McCain; McCain was chosen for us by a front-loaded system favoring the "blue states" which would not (and did not!) vote for McCain in the general election anyway. If nothing changes, next caucus/primary season, the same thing will inevitably happen, the most moderate/centrist candidate will again be forced upon us.

Our first priority ought to be how we're going to clean up this mess.

 

[heatherleigh]

Disneyh, that is the same point I have made. However, since it was GWB who made those appointments, it doesn't count or matter. That is the general feeling I have gotten.

Blest, I agree with the article. My husband said the same thing recently- that the dems all voted for JM (which we never even had an opportunity to vote, if I remember correctly) and skewed it. I really think that process needs to be adjusted. We didn't vote, because by the time it came time to primaries in our state, the candidate was decided. Having one or two states decide discourages many people from voting in the primaries.

Jennif, I did not know Janie & Jack was related to Gymboree. I have heard great things about them, and have been admiring their clothes online for awhile. I like dressing my daughters in classic clothing like Hanna. I can't wait to try J&J.

 

[What the Heck]

Saw this online, and thought the writer made some good points...

...any thoughts?

Unfortunately, no conservative candidate will ever again win enough delegates to clinch the nomination until the Republican Party addresses the fact that its current caucus/primary system is its own greatest enemy.

I believe the blueprint is now in place for conservatism's doom in the Republican party. We did not choose McCain; McCain was chosen for us by a front-loaded system favoring the "blue states" which would not (and did not!) vote for McCain in the general election anyway. If nothing changes, next caucus/primary season, the same thing will inevitably happen, the most moderate/centrist candidate will again be forced upon us.

Our first priority ought to be how we're going to clean up this mess.

I disagree, but then I don't think the Republican Party has to go back so far to the right. Here is how I see this election year.

1. McCain ran a terrible campaign. One of the worst I have seen in a long time. I think he did better on the issues than Obama, but he didn't talk about them enough.

2. Obama ran a great campaign. He had a lot of help with that with the MSM because they would not look into some serious issues they should have, but still, I have to give him credit, he did run a great campaign.

3. Many people are still pissed at President Bush. At least some of the votes Obama got were not for him, nor were they against McCain, they were against Bush.

4. The economy tanked at the perfect time for Obama, and McCain made one bad decision there. He didn't look presidential while the situation floundered. The MSM made Obama look presidential with their spin instead of pointing out that what Obama did do was back away and let mommy and daddy handle it, in other words voting present on the solution. Because McCain didn't handle it well, he couldn't use it as an issue to beat him with.

Notice, none of these 4 points talks about Republican or Democrat values. And, even with the first 3 point, McCain was still ahead until point number 4 happened.

Do we need to get back to basics and get back to our values? Heck yes, but not in an exclusionary way. To try to fit all Republicans in a cookie cutter way really would be the death of the party.

We really are in a good position. All the pressure to perform is on the Democrats. They can no longer claim "well we wanted to fix it but the Republicans stopped us". I don't know about you, but the reason I AM a Republican is because I don't believe the policies of the Democrats work. I don't believe they have it right. We will now see. As a Republican, here are my predictions for the next 2 years:

1. The economy is going to get worse. I think we will see an increase in unemployment, an increase in inflation, and a stifling of the GDP. We will be in worse shape in October 2010 than we were in October 2008.

2. Our dependence on foreign oil will still be there. We will have moved very little on this issue from where we are now. We will still be "hoping" for someone to come up with a way for us to "change" this situation.

3. There will be some issues that will be passed, or attempted to be passed that are so far left that all moderates will be pissed about, including blue dogs. I think there is a lot of buyers regret going on now.

The Democrats have to perform now. If they don't, they have nothing to point to, to blame it on. And I don't think they can truly perform more than a circus side show, with lots of good phrases, lots of feel goods - nothing that will put food on the table or get anyone a job.

It's a real simple game plan to win in 2010. Take every Congressperson in office now (especially Democrats), show how they voted, and ask the folks "do you agree with this decision?". In 2010, we should stay completely away from saying good or bad, just this is what they did, do you agree? It's so simple I'm thinking of doing it here. Same way Obama was able to say "McCain voted 90% with George Bush" we will get to say "X voted 90% with Nancy Pelosi".

We believe what we believe. The people don't have a problem with our differences. They do have a problem when our candidates appear dishonest, and practice more Democratic values than Republican.

 

[What the Heck]

She said it was worse today than yesterday. It's sinking in more, and they had to make the arrangements. She said maybe after the funeral she will start healing. Mark is strong, but so much is happening. Sarah, his 14 yr old sister is having a hard time. I don't know if I mentioned it or not, but he did send them all a text just before it happened. They still are not ready to talk to the girl, but it's not because they blame her. It just happened at her house, so they just can't yet. They feel horrible for her, also. They are talking about it at least to a few of us. I'm going to be there as much as I can without getting in the extended family's way. When they go back home, I will be helping his mom as much as possible, especially when his dad has to go back to work. Crisis teams from a local church and a health center went to both schools involved to try to help. DD and other friends of Blake and Hannah are trying to dispel rumors and half truths. It's not fair for kids to have to, but they are willing because they were friends with both.

I'm sad that DD has experienced a grandmother (my MIL) commit suicide and now a friend, also and she's only 16.

My thoughts and prayers are with them. I do hope they don't ignore the girl too much, she is probably feeling huge amounts of guilt. It's a rought situation all around, and my hats off to you for helping out.

 

[Tink & Goofy]

But, after visiting with his parents, I know more. I just was so sad last night I couldn't put it in words.

That poor girl. She has to be feeling a tremendous amount of guilt right now. We'll continue praying for that family.

hey everyone...i'm EXHAUSTED! (but in a very good way!)

I'm trying to get myself back into "baby" mode and it has drained every ounce of energy I have! Jacob only wants to sleep when he's laying on mommy, therefore mommy isn't getting much rest herself.

My DS was the same way; still is for the most part. He wouldn't sleep unless he was laying on me and when he naps even now he's the same way. I can't put him down or he wakes up.
He does sleep through the nigh laying next to me, though.

I disagree, but then I don't think the Republican Party has to go back so far to the right.

The Democrats have to perform now. If they don't, they have nothing to point to, to blame it on. And I don't think they can truly perform more than a circus side show, with lots of good phrases, lots of feel goods - nothing that will put food on the table or get anyone a job.
We believe what we believe.

The people don't have a problem with our differences. They do have a problem when our candidates appear dishonest, and practice more Democratic values than Republican.

I think we have to get back to the basics. And for the Republicans that means going to the right. When we run centrist/moderate/left of center repubs we lose. Why put in a half-Demo when the real thing is running?

As for nothing to blame it on, I call bs. They'll blame anything on anyone just as long as they don't have to take responsibility. They'll be blaming Bush for years to come.

And no problem with our differences...I beg to differ. Have you not run into any OS recently, here or IRL? We don't believe or think like they do and they can't stand that and they're intolerant of it (talking about passing the Fairness Doctrine, for example). As for not liking dishonest candidates, they picked BO, love Bill Clinton, Ted Kennedy...they have no problem with lying politicians unless they're Repub.

 

[wonderlanne]

does anybody else find it a tad inappropriate for O to be making public addresses that sound like mini state of the unions? especially when we still have a president in office who is also making a public address?

 

[breezy1077]

OMG!! I finally talked to my MIL. She tried really hard to be gracious....barely talked about the election....IT WAS MUCH WORSE!!! She wants DH and I to go to the inauguration I couldn't believe it but, yet I shouldn't be surprised. She has invitations to one of the balls. She said, she knows I'm not a democrat (that's an understatement) but, "it's a historical occaision." She's sure DH wants to go. I know he could care less..and I'd rather give have a "do-it-yourself" root canal...while, having my toenails pulled out...one by one. I told her we had vacation plans the week before...it would be hard to be gone that long. This is sad but, I can't and won't go. The inauguration is not something I can celebrate. I hate hurting her feelings but, geesh....she should know better.

**edited to add** I might could stomach the party but, the swearing-in..... That would be more than my conservative heart could bear.

Well, I guess it was a nice gesture....but if I went - I'd need to get all the barf bags from the plane and take 'em to the inauguration.

I think staying home is a smart move.

Hi all! Just popping in to say I can't stick around, but I'll catch ya later

 

[mrsdon]

I haven't caught up with all the posts, but I wanted to post about my guy.
He's 26, never married. He's a conservative.
But, he's had some major medical problems.
He is a 2 time brain tumor survior, he's also had 2 mini strokes, and an anyresuem (sp)
Hes one of the sweeest guys ever,
He loves Disney and is a CM
He has NEVER had a girlfriend.
I would love someone to meet him and find out how great he is.

 

[nannerbadnanner]

I haven't caught up with all the posts, but I wanted to post about my guy.
He's 26, never married. He's a conservative.
But, he's had some major medical problems.
He is a 2 time brain tumor survior, he's also had 2 mini strokes, and an anyresuem (sp)
Hes one of the sweeest guys ever,
He loves Disney and is a CM
He has NEVER had a girlfriend.
I would love someone to meet him and find out how great he is.

He saounds like a sweetheart! Where does he live? We can start the Conservative Love Connection!

 

[TLSnell1981]

Ugh. Sorry you have to deal with this TL. I'd put my foot down. And if he for some reason insists on going

I know how to put my foot down. I've had lots of practice. If he wants to go he can but, I think he was glad I had a "made up" excuse. I guess, now, I need to plan a trip so I WON"T be fibbing!!

 

[Tink & Goofy]

I haven't caught up with all the posts, but I wanted to post about my guy.
He's 26, never married. He's a conservative.
But, he's had some major medical problems.
He is a 2 time brain tumor survior, he's also had 2 mini strokes, and an anyresuem (sp)
Hes one of the sweeest guys ever,
He loves Disney and is a CM
He has NEVER had a girlfriend.
I would love someone to meet him and find out how great he is.

Hmmm...I would suggest my SIL but she lives in VA. Of course, DH and I met on the internet and had a long distance relationship and then we met in person. We've been married almost 9 years now.