I was speaking with a few young people this past week, and questions came up about comments they hear on television concerning the vast amount of money they will owe when they grow up.
We haven't graduated from high school or planned for our future. How can we owe the government for the debt created while we are still in school?
One young man stated that he wanted to go to college and become a coach and teach school. I am sure I will owe for college when I get out.
What is happening to the American dream? Hopes of a good job, a family and a home of our own? How do you explain to teenage kids what "pork-barrel spending" means?
Even our teenagers, who are daily in school to learn and prepare for their future, understands something is wrong in Washington. They hear how much money is being wasted on projects that are of no concern to most of the American people. This money could very well solve the problems of our education system budgets.
That is OK; our schools can handle 35 to 40 students in each classroom. By the way, these classrooms include 10 to 12 Special Ed students.
Parents, let us start asking ourselves, what responsibilities does the NEA and the AEA possess? How well are our public schools represented in Washington?
Congress, get on the stick and make some changes in the big long members can serve. We want people who are qualified to make important decisions on our behalf.
Where are we headed, Mr. President?
Our Beautiful Daughters
Jolie and Julie
Friday, June 18, 2010
Know What I Wish?
I guess when you realize that you are getting older, and have excess time on your hands, you find yourself thinking about old memories of the past. The truth is, you know that your future is much shorter than your past. I think about the special times I had watching my daughters grow up. Special moments in time, at different ages as they made their way through the stages of growing up. Helping with their School work. Drawing pictures for their School projects. This past Fathers Day, after receiving and reading both of my cards from Julie and Jolie, I truly do feel it was all worthwhile. The long hours at work. Working too many week ends and holidays. Relocating too many times to new cities. I do thank God everyday for their mother, who was always there for them. Know what I wish yet? Well, I know we can't go back and correct all the mistakes we made while raising our family. "Its a good thing", as Martha Stewart would say, to reflect back on all the great times we had together. Today I received a very nice letter of thanks from Kevin Hostinsky. Kevin is Faye and Larry's grandson who just graduated from High School. Kevin is majoring in Business Administration in College and working with his Dad. It makes me feel proud that we have such thoughtful young people in our family. The gift was not that much, but Kevin typed Carrie and I a full page, thanking us for the gift and telling us a little about himself and his future plans. Pam, you guys did good! We are proud of you Kevin!
P.S. And, remember...if life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do Not attempt to resolve it yourself! Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. I will get to it in MY TIME. All situations will be resolved in God's time. Love you all, Jake
Falling Apart!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at 4:27pm
Happy News! Just wanted to let you know - today I received my stimulus package for
2010. It contained two watermelon seeds, cornbread mix, and 10 coupons to
KFC. The directions were in Spanish. Hope you get yours soon! Just received that little diddy in an e-mail, thought I would pass it on to the Wiregrass.
No, I am not against helping people who need help. I guess because I live in the deep South, I am considered a "RED NECK"! I really don't know what it takes to be a red neck. I do know that I am a God fearing person and I know what the Bible says about taking care of people in need. I hope that all Americans can now realize that our country is falling apart in many areas. Many States operating budget has been wiped out, including our State. Washington is now telling other Countries what they can do and not do. This past year has been full of decisions made by Washington that most of us don't understand. I ask everyone who lives here in the Wiregress to please, double up on your daily prayer for our Country. Dothen Eagle, 2010
Happy News! Just wanted to let you know - today I received my stimulus package for
2010. It contained two watermelon seeds, cornbread mix, and 10 coupons to
KFC. The directions were in Spanish. Hope you get yours soon! Just received that little diddy in an e-mail, thought I would pass it on to the Wiregrass.
No, I am not against helping people who need help. I guess because I live in the deep South, I am considered a "RED NECK"! I really don't know what it takes to be a red neck. I do know that I am a God fearing person and I know what the Bible says about taking care of people in need. I hope that all Americans can now realize that our country is falling apart in many areas. Many States operating budget has been wiped out, including our State. Washington is now telling other Countries what they can do and not do. This past year has been full of decisions made by Washington that most of us don't understand. I ask everyone who lives here in the Wiregress to please, double up on your daily prayer for our Country. Dothen Eagle, 2010
Light One For Me!
Between now and Christmas, I think I will just take a moment, a special time, and light one candle and thank God for our men and women in service for our country throughout the world. I am so thankful for my family and friends, I think I will just light a special candle for them as well. Candles have different symbolic meanings for different events. Birthdays, funerals and weddings use candles for unity. The union of two people who love each other. Candles are used to remember special people in our lives. Candles seem to have a unifying element that binds people together. I can remember when I was away from home for three years while in France and Germany. Being away from family and friends and missing being at home at Christmas time for three years, its a big gap in your life. Just missing Christmas for one year for our service men and women is a heart breaking time.
So as a means of thanking you, One more candle of enduring fame. I light it now, most joyfully,
In everybody's name.
I'll light a candle for you. Will you light a candle for me?
Merry Christmas and; Happy New Year in 2010
The Love Of My Sister, Elene
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 11:33pm
Jennie Elene, was born Oct. 12, 1922 and died Aug. 20, 1987. Elene was a very special person, a kind and loving mother. Even in the tough times, Elene held her family together. I was blessed to be able to live with Elene and Edward for a year when I was seven. Although I was Elene's little brother, I was loved and taken care of like a son. When I reached nine and decided to go live with Dad, I became her little brother. On many visits from then on, Elene and I had many great and personal conversations. We talked about our lives and how things might have been if Mother had lived. I am sure many in my family have asked ourselves the same question. Even at four years old, I can remember the night I stood by Mother's bed in the hospital in Donalsonville, and as she held my hand, told me to be a good boy and that I would be staying with Eltrym for a while. Elene was really a fun person to be around. I can remember when Elene and Edward lived in Donalsonville close to the courthouse. I must have been about thirteen or fourteen. One night Elene played some records and we danced and had a ball. I could go on and on, but I was reading a book tonight that Julie gave me and I came upon this poem. "The Love Of A Sister" by Begary. I could not help but think of Elene and how much I missed her after twenty two years. The poem goes: If love could change the way things are, you would live forever and go so far. You'd know that I am always there. That I'll always love you, I'll always care. But love can't change the way things are, Or stop your pain or mend your scars. I hope that love can let you know, Not to give up or ever let go. Even when you're not in sight, You're in my thoughts day and night. Love is what will keep you there, And make me thankful for all we share. One day my Sister, we'll meet again. Jake
Laurie Crater Battles likes this.
Bryan Lees-- I heard Tammy talk about so many positive and loving memories of her Grandparents that I feel like I knew them myself. I look forward to meeting them one day.
October 28, 2009 at 11:56pm · Jake Cannon Thanks Bryan, I hope we all can meet soon. Time is passing fast for some of us. Spending time with Tammy and the kids in Columbus was a real blessing. Take care.
October 28, 2009 at 11:59pm · Bryan Lees I agree. Hopefully, I can make the next GA trip.
October 29, 2009 at 12:09am · Sheila Donalson Del Castillo Although I was unable to spend a lot of time with Aunt Elene when we were growing us, the times that I did were special. She always treated us like we were there all of the time and always made us feel at home. I loved her laugh. It was the best!
October 29, 2009 at 6:48am · Steve Cannon I feel the same as all of you. I just wish that I could have had more time to spend with all.
October 29, 2009 at 7:16am · Belinda Baxter Brooks i just love reading this. it makes me think of grandaddy. I remember him talking about aunt Elene, he would always call her aunt Elene to me, when ever he talked about her. he really love ya'll so much.
October 29, 2009 at 1:40pm · Sherrie Donalson Walker She was very special and had a way of making you feel very special also. You were special to her.
October 29, 2009 at 6:39pm · Sherrie Donalson Walker By they way, you made me cry. This is the second time I read this and it is just as special as the first time.
October 29, 2009 at 7:34pm · Julie E. Cannon Love is apparent in our family. I feel blessed.
October 29, 2009 at 8:21pm · Donna Mathis Thank you Jake for remembering momma in this way and letting other people know how special she was.
Jennie Elene, was born Oct. 12, 1922 and died Aug. 20, 1987. Elene was a very special person, a kind and loving mother. Even in the tough times, Elene held her family together. I was blessed to be able to live with Elene and Edward for a year when I was seven. Although I was Elene's little brother, I was loved and taken care of like a son. When I reached nine and decided to go live with Dad, I became her little brother. On many visits from then on, Elene and I had many great and personal conversations. We talked about our lives and how things might have been if Mother had lived. I am sure many in my family have asked ourselves the same question. Even at four years old, I can remember the night I stood by Mother's bed in the hospital in Donalsonville, and as she held my hand, told me to be a good boy and that I would be staying with Eltrym for a while. Elene was really a fun person to be around. I can remember when Elene and Edward lived in Donalsonville close to the courthouse. I must have been about thirteen or fourteen. One night Elene played some records and we danced and had a ball. I could go on and on, but I was reading a book tonight that Julie gave me and I came upon this poem. "The Love Of A Sister" by Begary. I could not help but think of Elene and how much I missed her after twenty two years. The poem goes: If love could change the way things are, you would live forever and go so far. You'd know that I am always there. That I'll always love you, I'll always care. But love can't change the way things are, Or stop your pain or mend your scars. I hope that love can let you know, Not to give up or ever let go. Even when you're not in sight, You're in my thoughts day and night. Love is what will keep you there, And make me thankful for all we share. One day my Sister, we'll meet again. JakeLaurie Crater Battles likes this.
Bryan Lees-- I heard Tammy talk about so many positive and loving memories of her Grandparents that I feel like I knew them myself. I look forward to meeting them one day.
October 28, 2009 at 11:56pm · Jake Cannon Thanks Bryan, I hope we all can meet soon. Time is passing fast for some of us. Spending time with Tammy and the kids in Columbus was a real blessing. Take care.
October 28, 2009 at 11:59pm · Bryan Lees I agree. Hopefully, I can make the next GA trip.
October 29, 2009 at 12:09am · Sheila Donalson Del Castillo Although I was unable to spend a lot of time with Aunt Elene when we were growing us, the times that I did were special. She always treated us like we were there all of the time and always made us feel at home. I loved her laugh. It was the best!
October 29, 2009 at 6:48am · Steve Cannon I feel the same as all of you. I just wish that I could have had more time to spend with all.
October 29, 2009 at 7:16am · Belinda Baxter Brooks i just love reading this. it makes me think of grandaddy. I remember him talking about aunt Elene, he would always call her aunt Elene to me, when ever he talked about her. he really love ya'll so much.
October 29, 2009 at 1:40pm · Sherrie Donalson Walker She was very special and had a way of making you feel very special also. You were special to her.
October 29, 2009 at 6:39pm · Sherrie Donalson Walker By they way, you made me cry. This is the second time I read this and it is just as special as the first time.
October 29, 2009 at 7:34pm · Julie E. Cannon Love is apparent in our family. I feel blessed.
October 29, 2009 at 8:21pm · Donna Mathis Thank you Jake for remembering momma in this way and letting other people know how special she was.
Because He Cares & I Also Care!
Monday, October 19, 2009 at 11:56pm
Psalm 18:6 -{ I called to the LORD in my distress, and I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears.}
Thanksgiving is just around the corner. We all have time to think of ALL the blessings He has given to us through prayer and many times, just for being faithful to Him. We can know that God hears our cries when we bring our afflictions before Him. We can rest assured that God is still in control of events and is able to help us in our afflictions. Because God never changes we know the same power by which He created the heavens and the earth is available to help us in our afflictions today. Lets not forget. My friends and family. We love you "all"!
Sheila Donalson Del Castillo--We love you and Aunt Carrie dearly!
October 20, 2009 at 10:43pm · Julie E. Cannon--We have so much for which to be thankful this year.
Psalm 18:6 -{ I called to the LORD in my distress, and I cried to my God for help. From His temple He heard my voice, and my cry to Him reached His ears.}Thanksgiving is just around the corner. We all have time to think of ALL the blessings He has given to us through prayer and many times, just for being faithful to Him. We can know that God hears our cries when we bring our afflictions before Him. We can rest assured that God is still in control of events and is able to help us in our afflictions. Because God never changes we know the same power by which He created the heavens and the earth is available to help us in our afflictions today. Lets not forget. My friends and family. We love you "all"!
Sheila Donalson Del Castillo--We love you and Aunt Carrie dearly!
October 20, 2009 at 10:43pm · Julie E. Cannon--We have so much for which to be thankful this year.
Take It Seriously
Tuesday, April 20, 2010 at 10:49pm
All Americans can now get concerned with our country's debt. Both parties will and must be held responsible for allowing the wasteful spending of taxpayer funds, along with every person in Washington who has any responsibility for voting at any time to spend money for any reason when the so-called budget has been exhausted many times over.
Salaries should be cut, high positions should be replaced with qualified, level-headed people. The so-called "reforming America" by this administration, it's redistribution of wealth and social policy will slowly destroy what made this country great.
America cannot be the godfather to all countries around the world. Has God taken his blessings off America?
We have chaos throughout the world. I hope and pray that we as God-fearing Americans, will now take it seriously and get back into our prayer time and ask God for his blessings on our country and our leaders. (Posted in Dothan Eagle 04/20/10)
All Americans can now get concerned with our country's debt. Both parties will and must be held responsible for allowing the wasteful spending of taxpayer funds, along with every person in Washington who has any responsibility for voting at any time to spend money for any reason when the so-called budget has been exhausted many times over.
Salaries should be cut, high positions should be replaced with qualified, level-headed people. The so-called "reforming America" by this administration, it's redistribution of wealth and social policy will slowly destroy what made this country great.
America cannot be the godfather to all countries around the world. Has God taken his blessings off America?
We have chaos throughout the world. I hope and pray that we as God-fearing Americans, will now take it seriously and get back into our prayer time and ask God for his blessings on our country and our leaders. (Posted in Dothan Eagle 04/20/10)
Fundamental Freedoms
Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at 2:31am
There is no doubt that “change” is taking place in our country in more ways than one. Over the years, our States and Federal governments have not enforced our protection laws. Laws, which would keep us safe and our economy growing without using illegal help. We live in a time when self-preservation is priority over concern for your constitutes, if you’re an elected official. Congress must insist on the guidelines being followed, set up in the Constitution of the United States. The government cannot just sidestep the laws of the country. It’s true that the United States has been tied up in a war for the past nine or so years. Remember, we were reminded of wars and rumors of wars, many years ago. Nation will rise against nation. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. Many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other. Would you like to know who spoke these words?
Desolation has reached America in many ways. Great distress for many Americans has already reached such intensity that, if allowed to continue, it will destroy the American dream for our children, and total control of how we live in America. It could very well cause many of our fundamental freedoms to disappear.
I worry, because of added stress on the family, that we will loose our freedom to just be happy. Take care of our family and to be able to love each other and to be forever proud to be an American. I remember the three years I spent in France and Germany back in 1959 through 1961. Touring the countryside on weekends and viewing the small houses and lean-to barns. You could tell that living conditions were much less than you had back home. I was still so thankful for my living opportunities back home.
Well, 51 years later, I wonder, where did we as Americans slip up and become so dependent on some foreign country. I’m no writer, just a very concerned American for our great country.
There is no doubt that “change” is taking place in our country in more ways than one. Over the years, our States and Federal governments have not enforced our protection laws. Laws, which would keep us safe and our economy growing without using illegal help. We live in a time when self-preservation is priority over concern for your constitutes, if you’re an elected official. Congress must insist on the guidelines being followed, set up in the Constitution of the United States. The government cannot just sidestep the laws of the country. It’s true that the United States has been tied up in a war for the past nine or so years. Remember, we were reminded of wars and rumors of wars, many years ago. Nation will rise against nation. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. Many will turn away from the faith and betray and hate each other. Would you like to know who spoke these words?
Desolation has reached America in many ways. Great distress for many Americans has already reached such intensity that, if allowed to continue, it will destroy the American dream for our children, and total control of how we live in America. It could very well cause many of our fundamental freedoms to disappear.
I worry, because of added stress on the family, that we will loose our freedom to just be happy. Take care of our family and to be able to love each other and to be forever proud to be an American. I remember the three years I spent in France and Germany back in 1959 through 1961. Touring the countryside on weekends and viewing the small houses and lean-to barns. You could tell that living conditions were much less than you had back home. I was still so thankful for my living opportunities back home.
Well, 51 years later, I wonder, where did we as Americans slip up and become so dependent on some foreign country. I’m no writer, just a very concerned American for our great country.
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