MinuteMom Magazine- September

MinuteMom September 2001• Volume 1 Issue 1

Becoming MinuteMom Are you a 9.12er?

America’s economic health: 7 steps to take now!

2 Years of As a Mom...

Nothing to love about America?

YYPresident’s Letter

Dear Moms and Moms-at-Heart, Not quite a year ago Anita Reeves, AAM Co-Founder and National Vice-President, Diana Learn, Director of Education, and I had the opportunity to sit down together and brainstorm with some other wonderful patriot women. One of the ideas that came out of that session was to have a magazine for conservative women. For months we have tossed this idea around, discussing content and ideas. About a month ago everything came together … drum roll… Introducing As a Mom… A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots free online publication – MinuteMom Magazine.

Last September at the Liberty Expo in Washington DC, Anita gave a wonderful presentation entitled “Modern-day Minutemoms.” Knowing that the 81,153 members of As a Mom... were not able to attend her presentation, I asked her to convert it to an article for the inaugural issue of our magazine. Anita’s thoughts also inspired the title of the magazine. All of us, regardless of gender or status as a parents, can become MinuteMoms.

Many thanks to our all volunteer staff that worked tirelessly to put this first issue together.

Without the dedication of Regina Steiger, Director of Public Relations and Editor, and Patsy Conreaux, Assistant Editor, this magazine would still be an idea in the AAM idea box. I also want to thank our article contributors, who with very little warning, wrote articles for this and future issues.

Like everything else at As a Mom..., this magazine is a labor of love. It is only possible with your help. Please share your talents in writing, art and photography with us. Often we will have calls for specific topics. If you can contribute something on the subject, please submit it. We can’t guarantee its inclusion in the magazine, but we will appreciate knowing your thoughts.

This magazine is made possible by sponsor ads and AAM donors. We thank all of you who help support AAM financially.

I believe MinuteMom Magazine is one more tool in fulfilling our mission “....to empower Moms and Moms-At-Heart in preserving our Constitution, country and children’s future.”

Happy Reading-

Lori Parker Co-Founder and President As a Mom… A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots® Inc.

Pictured: The As a Mom...National Executive Board at the Alamo, Lori Parker, Mary McDonald, Amber Toone and Anita Reeves.

2

MinuteMom Magazine

www.AsAMom.org

photo L.. Parker

Welcome

MinuteMom Magazine September 2001• Volume 1 Issue 1

4

Features 4 Becoming MinuteMom

I saw in my mind an army of Minutemoms standing up to fight against the tyranny of today. I saw the moms across America ready at a minute’s notice to run out to a protest, sit down at a corner desk to send an email, or call a representative.

By Anita Reeves, National Vice President & Co-Founder

10

10 Are you a 9.12er?

The 9.12 Project was inspired by who we were as Americans on the day after the most devastating attack on our nation’s soil.

By Yvonne Donnelly, The 9.12 Project National Chair

14 America’s economic health: 7 steps to take now!

Your security will depend on decisions, your state of mind, and the actions you take right now.

By Lisa Bedford, The Survival Mom

14

20 2 Years of As a Mom...

A pictorial look back at every thing we have done.

28 Nothing to love about America?

Nothing to love about America? We need to give our children reasons to love her every single day.

By Marlene Peterson, HomeMakers for America, Vice President

28

20

®

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

September 2011

1

Thanks 21st Century Patriot AKAMom1996 Amanda Amber Joy Amber T. Americana Lady Amy Amy B. Amy T. Angel F. Anita R Ann Ann Rich Duncan Anne G. Annette M. April C. Arlene M Asagrandmom Audra Auntie Anne Barb Barb G. Barbara M. Ben M. Beth R. Beth W. Betty O. BGran and Grammie Brenda B Brenda G. Brenda Ready California drowning Camille Captain Happy Pants Carol F. Caroline H Catherine GW Cathryn Dow Cathy Caylie N. CB Cee Marie Cheri V. Chrissy Christine Christine B Christine K. Christine R. Christy L. Cindy V. Claudia B. Colonel Dad Connie M. Connie S. Conservative Candy

Over the past two years we have had many volunteers without whom AAM would not be what it is today. We would like to thank them all.

Cyn D.K. Daddy Dude Daniel Danielle D. Danielle O. Darin Morley Darlene Dawn K. Dea Y. Deborah S. Debra Denise B. Denise H. Denise Y. Diana H. Diana L. Diana S. Diane B. DK Donna F. Dr. Rafael Dunwreath S. Eden G Edwina Elizabeth Lankford Elizabeth S Elle Erin Evelyn S. Fran Freedom Fighter Gail Nelson Gayle.

Gina J. Gini A. GiveMeliberty GKP Gwen Clark Heather C. Hercules J.D. Jacquelyn E. Jaime SGT Mom Jamoblynn Jane E. Janet C. Janis S. JB Jean S. Jeana TN. Jeff K. jen0517 Jenn Jones Jenna

Jenni R. Jennifer B. Jennifer N. Jennifer P. Jeri A. Jess Jill L. Joan G. Joanna Joanne S. Morrissey JoBear Jolie T. Joyce B. Julie C. Kacy Kami W. Karen B. Karen S. Karena M. Kathryn P. Kathy Kami w.

Katie E. Katie-DFW Kay/DFW Kelley Kelly Kelly B. Kerri D. Kiddle Kim W. Kimberli F. Kimberly S. Kiri Kristen E. Kristi Kristine F. Kristine S. Kristy P. lanette Laura Leiter Laura O. Laura S. Laurie C. Laycee P. Leigh S. Lezhai G. Libby Liberty Mason Lin W. Linda E. Linda Gooden Linda H. Lisa H. Lisa B.

Liz C. Lori N. Lori W. Lorraine – VA Maczko Madelynn IN Mama Capps Marc Marc T. Maria S Marilyn S. Mark Marlene Peterson Marta Mary C. Mary K. Mary M. Mary W. Maui Makuahine Maureen D. Meg Melanie K. Meliah M. Melissa Melissa H. Michael L. Michele Michele P. Michelle F MimiKath MJ Ms Braveheart Nana 55 Nancy A. Nancy C. Nancy M. Nancy NM Neena L. Nicole S. Nicorie S. Nisa P. Smith Pam L Pamela HJ Patricia D. Patsy Pattij Patty Peggy M. Phyllis PJ B TX Rachael O Rachel Radiant Rebecca B.

Rebekah B Regina S Renee D. Rhonda Ricci Moore Rita J. Roberta Ruth M Sally B. Sally W. Sandra Sandra N. Sarah Sarah J. Scott C. Shari S. Sharon Sharon Sweeney Sharon W. Shelli H. Shelly C. Sheryl F. SilverMom Sloane P. Stacy Finch Star M. Stephanie F. Stephanie W. Sue Sue Ann Kelly Sue Maplegrove Sue –MN Susan Gray Rowland Susan J. Susan O. Susan P. Susan R. Suzette Tabatha R. Tamara Tammy M. Tara Teresa S. Teri D. Terri Texas Mom Theconservativemama TXvolleygal Vicki B. Vickie B. Wendy F. Wendy G Wendy T.

We did our best to list all of the known volunteers. Our sincere apologies to anyone we missed. Please contact us and we will add your name to our list.

Departments 2 President’s Letter Welcome

8

Board Bits

9 Letters to the Editor 17 State of the Union Dream Act

18 Children God’s Idea

19 Getting to Know State Groups

27 Values Humility… A Change of Heart

30

As Seen on AAM Questions for Presidential Candidates Agenda 21 Standing with Israel

32 In the Spotlight 35 Poem 36

As A Family Humility

38 Constitution What is black and tan and not read all over?

MinuteMom Magazine is looking for people to share their talents by producing articles, essays, opinion pieces and original poetry.

Artists share your original artwork and photography.

Painting by Regina Steiger © 2005

Upcoming topics include.

YY If you’ve run for public office, share your experience with us and mentor others on how to do it.

YY Your stories from MinuteMob, a flash mob of kindness, “Back–to-School” edition YY When did you know you were not alone?

YY How have you made a difference?

Something on your mind you just have to share with others?

Do it here! We want to hear all about it. For more information contact editor@minutemom.org.

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

Publisher: As a Mom...

A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots.® Inc. www.AsAMom.org Editor Regina Steiger Assistant Editor Patsy Conreaux Contributing Writers: 2 Blondes Mom (Candace) Anita Reeves Jerrie Ross Kami Watkins Lisa Bedford Marlene Peterson Mary Mcdonald PJ B. Yvonne Donnelly MinuteMom Magazine is published 12 times a year by As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots, Inc. MinuteMom Magazine is available free, on-line.

Copyright © 2011 by As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots, Inc. All rights reserved. MinuteMom Magazine is not responsible for errors, omissions or contest fulfillment from third parties. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any advertising or editorial material.

Advertisers, and/or their agents, assume the responsibility for any claims against the publisher based on the advertisement.

Editorial contributors assume responsibility for any claims against the publisher based on published work. Signed articles do not necessarily reflect the official organization policy.

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots® is a registered trademark.

On the cover: Silk screen design based on C. Y. Turner’s 1907 mural painting of Molly Pitcher, designed by L. J. Parker © 2010 for AAM Please send all article submissions and ideas to: editor@minutemom.org Advertising inquiries contact: sponsor@asamom.org Note that submissions are welcome but are not guaranteed inclusion in the magazine.

September 2011

3

e B co

By Anita Reeves

As a Mom...

Co- founder and National Vice-President

ming

In the first few days of our new organization I found myself pondering how much difference we moms could make. Could we turn the tide? Could we really do what needs to be done? After processing numerous member applications, reading the comments you, our soon-to-be new members wrote, I was energized. The commitment was evident; the flame of freedom was burning brightly in your hearts.

Continued reflection found me contemplating the revolutionary period of our country’s history.

I thought of the many challenges faced by the

M i nut 4

MinuteMom Magazine

colonists and remembered the Minutemen. I love this part of our history! The Minutemen militias were specially trained groups ready at a minute’s notice to fight against threats to the safety of the settlements’ citizens. The threats to safety came to include the advances of the King’s troops and the tyranny which jeopardized the liberty and peace of the residents. These men were ready to lay down their lives and were truly invested in the future of their land and people; perhaps that is why they recognized the cause of truth and chose to take a stand.

m o M e www.AsAMom.org

Design Lori Parker

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots速

September 2011

5

I pictured a young family in the evening darkness just sitting down to a fireside dinner when a call to assemble is heard. The young wife stands, anxiously wringing her hands in her apron. The strong and calloused father rises and moving quickly to the corner of the small room, grabs his musket and pouch. He allows himself a brief glance at his wife and their sleeping baby while snatching his tri-cornered hat off the peg. The woman brushes a kiss on his cheek as he opens the door. He runs to answer as she tenses at the sight of his shadow fading into the night and wipes at the tears running down her face. The scene is one of tenderness and courage. They stood against injustice. Their sacrifice made a difference in my life.

Next I saw in my mind an army of Minutemoms standing up to fight against the tyranny of today. I saw the moms across America ready at a minute’s notice to run out to a protest, sit down at a corner desk to send an email, or call a representative.

I saw moms giving minutes to the fight. I saw a brighter future. I saw us, me and you, being the difference.

6

MinuteMom Magazine

Take time to look at your life and evaluate what you need to have at the ready. Do you have the names, numbers, addresses and email addresses of all your elected officials waiting at the ready?

Do you have good sources for truthful information? Have you become familiar with major bills and dissected them based on principles? Have you prepared talking points so you are able to articulate your views and propose solutions to the problems? Do you have a good method for vetting candidates?

Take some time today to see if there are any gaps in your preparation. I believe as moms we hold the future in our hands everyday and it is up to us to rise and course-correct our deviant path as a nation. It will be moms who have the courage to stand up for the basic principles of honesty, integrity, work and responsibility. The early colonial Minutemen made an enormous impact at a crucial time in the opening of the Revolutionary War by standing up for right and inspiring others to join them. And I believe Minutemoms are the difference today that will rescue our nation from its threatened predicament and save our constitutional foundation.

My admiration for the colonial Minutemen shaped me into the extremely patriotic woman I am today. I still remember asking myself at a very young age if I would have had the courage to stand up and take on the British. I asked the question over and over. I thought about the principles these men and their families must have lived by in order to resist tyranny. I asked myself if I too could live by those principles and fight for them if necessary. I resolved to try. That’s why I am here today. That’s why I email and call elected officials. That’s why I attend political meetings. That’s why I spend time studying political articles. That’s why I used all of my family’s mad money fund and went to Washington to voice my opposition to Obamacare. That’s why I spend hours on the computer working in this organization. That’s why I strive to instill in my children these same principles. That’s why when I contemplate the future of my oldest son, who is in the United States Air Force, I am proud and thankful, not fearful. That’s why I am so motivated to do everything in my power to keep liberty and freedom alive and at the forefront of all I do. That’s why I want to be fully prepared and ready to go at a minute’s notice. www.AsAMom.org

Molly Who? As a Mom… members are familiar with the illustration and silkscreen design based on C.Y. Turner’s 1907 mural painting of Molly Pitcher, which was created for AAM by Lori Parker. Recently MinuteMom Magazine spoke with Lori about Molly.

Q. Why Molly?

A. Anita Reeves (National Vice President Co-Founder) had a vision for a video of a woman morphing into a Minutemom, complete with uniform and tri-cornered hat. I wanted to create it for her, but video is beyond my skills. One of the early Mommy Mondays featured information on Molly. She seemed like a natural icon to help tie us to our founding mothers and to use for As a Mom…

Q. What was the inspiration?

A. I found pictures of C.Y. Turner’s work in several places, including a July, 1912 New York Times article, “Splendid Record of Daring Among American Women”, along with several other illustrations. It stood out so boldly that I knew I wanted to use it for a silk screen t-shirt.

cannon) when no one expected her to do more than carry water. As moms, many do not expect us to do the hard thing, but as Minutemoms we can and will help to save our country.

Q. Who was Molly Pitcher?

A. Most likely Molly is a composite of several Revolutionary War heroines. Mary Ludwig Hayes, Margaret Corbin and Deborah Sampson all vie for recognition as the real Molly Pitcher. I don’t think who she was, is as important as what she stands for.

Molly Pitcher had the determination to do the hard thing (work at the

Ralph Waldo Emerson paid tribute to the heroic Minutemen in a poem. The first stanza was then used on a United States postage stamp. It reads, “By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled; Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired the shot heard ‘round the world.“

Being inspired by Emerson’s words, I penned a tribute to our Minutemoms:

“By the desk, computer and phone, Their flag to freedom’s cry unfurled; Here the mighty mothers stand And carry on “the shot heard ‘round the world.”

Stamp wikipedia

Anita L. Reeves is a mother of eight who recently celebrated her 27th wedding anniversary. She is a graduate of Purdue University, a former homeschooler and Seminary teacher, a past PTO treasurer, and PTA newsletter editor. She is a Master Gardener, a licensed ham-radio operator, and the administrator of a cooperative preschool. She is currently her Precinct Committee Person.

She was a delegate to her State Assembly and is the Co-founder and Vicepresident of As a Mom…A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots, Inc. As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

September 2011

7

YYBoard Bits Regina S. Director of Public Relations

Regina Steiger, P.R. Director for As a Mom... and Editor of the new MinuteMom Magazine is sending out a clarion call for experienced writers and editors who would love to be a part of this new endeavor. We need writers who can produce articles, essays, poetry and opinion pieces on our Country, our Constitution and our Children. And we are looking for an Assistant Editor as well. Contact editor@minutemom.org for more information.

Diana L. Director of Education

Congratulations to Lori and As Mom... on the launch of this exciting new Magazine!! I am so excited to be a part of this wonderful organization and I am equally as excited to have a part in the Minute Mom Magazine. As Director of Education, I am looking forward to providing helpful articles and tackling the issues we deal with while trying to provide the best education we can to our children. In the meantime, please make sure you have looked through the University http://bit.ly/rmCixc and check out the Daily NewsCap http://bit.ly/nFERaF for an quick update on the top issues of the day!!

Jeff K. Director of Membership

Summer is over. Our kids are back in school. In many places fall is in the air.

In 14 short months we will be having elections for President/Vice President, 33 Senate seats, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and state and local elections across the country.

Now is a great time to get dialed back into As A Mom… Invite your friends to join and get informed and involved. Network with other like minded-members.

PJ B. Director of Groups

Chatter, chatter, chatter. It’s all about the Presidential candidates. Aware moms know that Congress has been giving its Constitutional powers over to the Administration. Aware moms know judges are rewriting the Constitution. Aware moms know that some states are challenging these actions. Aware moms know that although promised one thing, some of the elected have done the exact opposite and the moms are talking. Primary season for what may be the most important election in our country’s history is upon us. Now is the time. Join your state group and make history. What do you think? What do you know? http://www.asamom.org/page/by-state-1

Nancy C. Director of Projects

I am the coordinator and executor of various projects. Some projects are on-going, such as the Weekly Action items where moms can find out how ONE mom can make a difference. These “weeklys” are found on the AsAmom.org homepage for easy access. (So get right on them!)

Other projects under this jurisdiction occur at designated times throughout the month (such as overseeing the coordination of our monthly book club) or year (such as our MinuteMob and BBB events). I am always seeking new ideas and assistance in executing them. You can reach me at nancy@asamom.org.

8

MinuteMom Magazine

www.AsAMom.org

YYLetters to the Editor New Magazine We are so looking forward to the As a Mom... national magazine. As a Mom... has been a special place to learn (AAM University, blogs and forums and of course state business), worry, make friends, laugh and plan in the past couple of years.

Keynesian Economics? We got it... Trilateral Commission?... We have that covered. Alinsky rules and rationale? Yep... Can spot it a mile away...

Together or individually, we have studied and discussed the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, The Declaration of Independence, and how those documents fit into our lives today.

We are all on a first name basis with many of the people who man the telephones for our Representatives and they know many of us by sight. Who would have thought that would happen a couple of years ago? No longer are they in a special class of people we wouldn’t think of “bothering.”

We have learned how to prepare, garden in different climates and store for emergencies. We have gone further into our schools and found out what is being taught and are making our voices heard. We have looked at our churches to find out what exactly is happening to our religious culture.

Many moms can now predict the outcome of a case by knowing what District court is handling it.

Nationally, we “gossip” about our states and what is happening there and we sup-

port each other as we deal with our state leaders. We watch what works in other states and we step out of our comfort zones to reach out to our neighbors to make a difference.

We join together to help the less fortunate.

Still learning, still growing with As A Mom… And thankful.

PJB-TX Congratulations to As A Mom’s newest adventure with the As A Mom… Magazine. What a wonderful way to reach busy Moms and Moms-at -heart.

AsAMom.org has been a personal ‘life-line of sanity’ in this crazy world. The online community is filled with love and support while providing learning opportunities, news and current events information.

So I’m looking forward to the new magazine and the ability to continue to share the news with my friends.

I have been so grateful for this Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots. From the personal interaction with moms across the country and the ability to discuss ideas with them, it has inspired me to take personal action in my own neighborhood. I believe that Faith is a verb and “To Stand” means to take action not just stand still. My favorite AAM activities are involving charity, including Moms helping the tornado victims across the country and the outreach to our very own community in the MinuteMob food and

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

back-to- school drives. As Mother Teresa said, “Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.” Congratulations to Lori and the As a Mom... Team as you continue to reach out to (the) individual mom, so that she can feel the same empowerment to refound our country and community with lasting values and principles.

JB - Indiana

Empowering Moms Congratulations on the launch of As A Mom’s new Minute Mom Magazine!

All the Moms and MomsAt-Heart of Virginia are very proud of this achievement. Congratulations once again and may you keep up the good work.

We are so proud to be a part of this empowering organization.

Best Wishes, Virginia Moms and Moms-at-Heart

www.thelastjump.com

September 2011

9

By Yvonne Donnelly

The 9.12 Project National Chair

www.the912-project.com

The 9.12 Project was inspired by who we were as Americans on the day after the most devastating attack on our nation’s soil; when on 9/12/2001 we came together as “One America” and were not concerned about each other’s political party, religion, or skin color. We were united in our grief and relied on the principles and values that made us the greatest nation in the world.

As 9.12ers, we believe in a strict interpretation of the provisions found in the U.S. Constitution.

Also, we are dedicated to the following 9 Principles and 12 Values. See if you agree with at least 7 of the following 9 principles:

Illustration by L. Parker

YY 1. America is good.

YY 2. I believe in God and He is the center of my life.

YY 3. I must always try to be a more honest person than I was yesterday.

YY 4. The family is sacred. My spouse and I are the ultimate authority, not the government.

YY 5. If you break the law you pay the penalty.

Justice is blind and no one is above it.

YY 6. I have a right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness, but there is no guarantee of equal results.

YY 7. I work hard for what I have and I will share it with who I want to. Government cannot force me to be charitable.

YY 8. It is not un-American for me to disagree with authority or to share my personal opinion.

YY 9. The government works for me. I do not answer to them, they answer to me.

Since most of the principles speak for themselves, I’d like to concentrate on a just a couple of the nine, because while most people would agree with

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

them, it is more important to actually live them.

Take principle #1 - America is good. Everyone would agree America is good. But if you question what has made us good or think to yourself, “America is good but…”, read no further. You’re not a 9.12er.

What made us good is our belief in the Constitution, in the freedoms laid out by our Founding Fathers, and in the idea that ours is a land of opportunity. It means in America everyone, no matter who we are, has an equal shot at making our own wealth and, if we choose to, can decide with whom we want to share it -- which is Principle #7. What it does not mean is that America is good, if we all share in the wealth created by others.

Next, consider principle #9 - The Government works for me; I do not answer to it. Again, most people would agree; we don’t answer to the Government. But our actions speak louder than our words. We find ourselves on the perpetual slippery slope of merely going along with what the Government tells us is in our best interest, without ever questioning it. Take for example taxes, specifically property taxes. I used to live in Monroe County in Western New York – an area with the nation’s highest property taxes (which was September 2011 11

based on a percentage of each home’s assessed value). The people in that county should be taking to the streets every weekend in protest. Don’t get me wrong. It’s a nice place, but it’s not Beverly Hills or South Beach.

We need our citizens to be better educated as to what “We the People” actually means. We are constantly being given the opportunity to give our power away and we do so willingly. As parents and caretakers we allow the school system to control what is going on with our children instead of doing it ourselves. For example, I had a conversation with a friend recently about the school calling to tell her that her 12 yr. old son had posted “inappropriate statements” on his Facebook page.

I asked my friend if this had happened during school hours. It hadn’t. So I questioned why it was the school’s business. She replied, “Well, I want the school to inform me of this behavior“. Really? Here’s an idea. You, not the school, monitor what your son posts on Facebook! Stop relying on the system, the Government. And if you agree with the concept of putting the power back on the parent, you’re a 9.12er. (Another idea might be that your 12 yr. old shouldn’t be on Facebook, but I digress).

Now, our 12 Values: Honesty, Reverence, Hope, Thrift, Humility, Charity, Sincerity, Moderation, Hard Work, Courage, Personal Responsibility, & Gratitude.

9.12ers feel that our values are what shape our character as good citizens, and we work everyday at following them -- again, not just talking about them, but actually living them. Somewhere along the line we stopped teaching, or at least stopped following, the values that most of us were taught by our parents. 9.12ers recognize the need to turn back to our core principles and values in order to help restore the Republic to what it was intended to be. We truly believe that if everyone exercised these principles and values everyday, we would have a better tomorrow. And we hope that by demonstrating these values ourselves, others will follow.

Values are not a political belief for those in the 9.12 Project. It isn’t about being a Democrat or Republican. Personally, I’ve spent time on both sides of the aisle. In fact, I spent more time on the left than the right. As a student at Colorado 12 MinuteMom Magazine

State University, I studied social work because I recognized that there are those that need a “hand up” in our society. However, I soon realized while working in the system, that it was all about a “hand out” instead.

Our country was created by individuals who came here and worked hard. They pulled themselves up by their bootstraps, dusted themselves off and got down to business because they recognized that this is the land of opportunity. Think about the hard work and sacrifice that your parents, grandparents and those before them endured to make it in this country. Then ask yourself if you’re living up to their standards.

Yes, espousing these values can be challenging.

Take the attribute of moderation as an example.

Some of us live beyond our means, then complain about our situation and expect others to feel sorry for us, and the government to bail us out.

The simple answer is to live without the stuff. I’ll bet your children would rather you spend time with them instead of slaving away to provide more stuff. And if you’re thinking that’s easier said than done, I disagree wholeheartedly. Do the math, evaluate your life and live more moderately.

You’ll be surprised at what you won’t miss and your children will learn what’s really important in life. It may not be easy, but it will be worth it.

Finally, remember that an important goal among 9.12ers is to reconnect with our communities.

Join a group and/or volunteer for an organization that is meaningful to you. Educate yourself and then teach your children about the history of our country; about our Founding Fathers; about the role of the three branches of our government and the details of our Constitution. Our country has moved away from these basic teachings but we can change that.

The 9.12 Project was launched to bring us back to a place where we know our history, exercise our principles and values, and get to know our neighbors once again. Let us not require another attack on our great country to be a reminder of who we used to be.

Yvonne Donnelly is a professional Coordinator of Volunteers with 25 years of experience working in not-for-profits. She is currently the Chair of The 9.12 Project, a volunteer-based grassroots organization connecting communities thru education, service and dedication to the 9 Principles and 12 Values that members commit to live in their daily lives. www.the912-project.com www.AsAMom.org

Protect your family from hardship with

www.DisasterPantry.com     

Long Term Food Storage Water Storage & Purification First Aid Kits Emergency Back Packs Survival Equipment

We’ve Got You Covered! www.DisasterPantry.com is a Patriot owned business offering a full line of emergency preparedness items and long term food storage packaged by Shelf Reliance. Check out “The Q” our automatic pay as you go pantry stocker. Visit our website or contact us at info@DisasterPantry.com or 850-207-7419.

Principle 1: America is good.

Take control of your child’s future.

Teach them our history.

The Exclusive 9/12 Project Youth Program ConstitutionalChampions.org

How America’s Economic Health Will Affect Your Family:

7

Steps To Take Now!

By Lisa Bedford The Survival Mom

www.thesurvivalmom.com

I didn’t major in economics in college. I confess that I found it somewhat boring, although I did master the basic concepts. On any given news day, the media floods us with news of the economy: the price of gold, the status of the stock market, high-yield stocks, news of the bond market, what’s happening with the Euro, etc., until our eyes glaze over. Why is it important to learn about and keep track of economic news? There’s one simple answer.

If the American economy continues to spiral downward, along with the value of the dollar, your family’s lifestyle will be downgraded, too.

If you currently enjoy a middle class lifestyle, how do you feel about raising your children at the poverty level? A devalued dollar means that middle class Americans will find themselves experiencing life at the lowest end of the spectrum, a “readjustment”, if you will. A young Argentine woman described life in Argentina following its collapse in 2001, and said, “My parents were both professors, but within a couple of weeks, they were scrounging for food in dumpsters.”

Argentina’s collapse ushered in a much higher crime rate, higher prices on everything, deaths and sickness by malnutrition, and a ‘malaise’ far beyond anything Jimmy Carter could have imagined. Did the Argentine people see this coming? Surely a

14 MinuteMom Magazine

few did. Others probably did not. But we can certainly learn from their mistakes and experience and become proactive. That’s what preparedness and being a Survival Mom is all about. Victimhood is an unacceptable alternative.

One observant layman said this about an economic downgrade: “Essentially, it means a ‘readjustment’ in our standard of living. I figure by two notches. The middle-class becomes the lower class, living in crappy apartments or in falling-apart, converted multi-family houses (same thing), having to buy bottom-priced food, and not being able to afford a car. The upper middle-class becomes the lower middle-class and does somewhat better, but the life they had with vacations, a nice house they could afford, and a decent car will be history. The lower classes simply become beggars and some starve (the honest ones). That is what happens to a country when its currency becomes devalued.”

At this time in history, none of us can afford to look the other way when the news turns from Kim Kardashian’s wedding to the financial news.

Keep in mind that the very richest Americans and our politicians have already looked out for themselves. Their assets are safe; they’re paying top dollar to advisers who will make sure they aren’t affected. Your security will depend on decisions, your state of mind, and the actions you take right now.

So where do you go from here?

First, become as financially healthy as you can.

Make debt repayment a top priority. Don’t be afraid to save money, but do it in cash and gold.

The cash provides good liquidity for emergencies and future purchases, whereas gold protects against currency devaluation and general ecowww.AsAMom.org

Illustration by AAM 2011

nomic malaise. Don’t let the price per ounce of gold scare you away; it can be purchased in increments as small as 1/10th of an ounce.

Second, if economics wasn’t your college major either, study up on the basics at Kiplinger.com, PracticalMoneySkills.com, and Mises.org. Force yourself if necessary to watch financial news reports and have a dictionary nearby to improve your “Econ” vocabulary! This self-education will keep you from being reliant on others’ opinions and falling prey to the sales pitch of a charlatan.

Next, if you haven’t already, begin stocking up on hard goods your family uses now and will need in the future. Food prices are rising, and we’re seeing warning signs that the price of energy will soon sky-rocket. Preserve the health and welfare of your family now by buying food and other supplies that have long shelf-lives. Your family will always need bars of soap, toilet paper, and you may not be willing to face the future with gray roots, so start stocking up! Prices will likely never be lower than they are today. Set a goal of three months worth and then continue stocking up.

Take steps to insulate your family against rising prices of fuel and energy. Can you take care of all your errands one day a week and switch to businesses that are closer to home? Make conscious decisions to lower your dependence on energy by drying your clothes on an outdoor clothesline or on drying racks. Start walking or riding bikes to nearby destinations, and leave the mini-van at home. Start thinking and acting as though every drop of gasoline is precious and that a rolling black-out is on its way! The more energy-conscious habits you establish now will save money in the short-term and establish common-sense habits for the long haul.

Next, think long-term when it comes to preparedness. Learning how to grow your own food, raise chickens and other livestock, make your own soap, sew, and sprout seeds, along with dozens of other skills, will increase your independence and confidence. These skills will be in demand in the future and may result in a way to earn some extra money and/or have a skill for bartering. Learning these skills usually takes little to no money, which is a bonus in an economy like ours.

If you currently live in an urban area and don’t like the odds of your family’s safety, make a plan to move elsewhere. This won’t be an easy step, in fact it’s one my own family is facing, but it’s not impossible, either. A so-called “survival retreat” is As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

impractical on many levels, but a move from the center of an urban area to the outskirts is a reasonable step. Not everyone can, or wants, to live in Idaho!

Finally, assess your family’s security level at home as well as when you’re out and about. Hard times will certainly bring a level of desperation that will cause m a n y people to resort to desperate measures.

Riots, “flash mobs”, home invasions and kidnappings will likely become more common.

Local law-enforcement agencies often provide free information to help you make your home more secure, and now would be a good time for the whole family to learn how to use a firearm and/or enroll in a martial arts class. When it comes to security, think in layers. A single security method, a handgun for example, isn’t enough, but handgun training, plus a security system, plus a watchdog, plus Krav Maga classes will be more effective.

Survival Moms look the future square in the face and say, “I don’t know what you have in store for me and my family, but I’m getting ready for you!” Be aware of events, make a plan, and take action, today!

Editor’s Note: As a Mom... members tracked inflation from November 2011 to April 2011. The illustrations in this article are the result of those surveys. For more on the AAM survey please visit: www.asamom.org/group/surveymoms Lisa Bedford writes on the topic of preparedness at www.TheSurvivalMom.com and has written a book, Survival Mom: How To Prepare Your Family For Everyday Disasters And Worst-Case Scenarios, to be published in March by Harper Collins.

September 2011 15

TRENDY WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN FOR HIP BUSINESSES TM

[ [

Managers of The912-Project.com site WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT WEB SITE RE-CREATION & DEPLOYMENT WEB CONSULTING GRAPHIC DESIGN Special packages for AD CREATION As A Mom Members!

LOGO IDENTITY & DESIGN eLEARNING CONTENT CREATION

NETFUSIONSTUDIOS.COM Jason Roberts, president

* also serves on the 9/12 Project board

330.697.4428

jroberts@netfusionstudios.com

YYState of the Union

Dream Act So you think writing and calling Congress about the Dream Act has pretty much paid off and it’s going nowhere, right? Are you paying attention to what is going on in your state?

No? Well the Dream Act has passed in thirteen states so far. Is yours next?

What is the federal version of the Dream Act? From opencongress.org we learn the following: S. 729-Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act of 2009- (Is) a bill to amend the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to permit States to determine State residency for higher education purposes and to authorize the cancellation of removal and adjustment of status of certain alien students who are longterm United States residents and who entered the United States as children, and for other purposes.

Translation: the Dream Act is a path to citizenship, (a.k.a. amnesty). And there are many who feel this is an effort

by Democrats to garner the Hispanic vote, not an insignificant voting block.

The Dream Act has never passed at the federal level, although it has been

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

introduced several times since 2001.

According to Voice of America, legislation for a national DREAM Act was first introduced in the U.S. Congress in 2001. It passed the House of Representatives in 2010, but did not have the support necessary in the Senate to become law. The legislation was reintroduced in May of this year in response to President Barack Obama’s call for a comprehensive immigration reform bill. Lawmakers have yet to take up the measure.

But while the effort may have slowed somewhat in Congress, activity has picked up steam at the state level as thirteen states have enacted their own versions of the bill. Yahoo News reports that California, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin-have passed laws since 2001, allowing in-state tuition for young illegal immigrants who graduated from state high schools in some states, and providing access to privately funded college tuition in others. And while these state versions of the Dream Act deal with college funding and not amnesty,

there are those who feel the passage of these laws is unfair to American students and legal immigrants who may have their own difficulties affording a college education during our current economic situation.

But while the state of Maryland is one of the thirteen to pass a DREAM Act, its government is now facing push-back from its citizens. Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley signed the Dream Act into law on May 5th of this year. It was to have taken effect on July 1st, but a petition drive was launched to place a referendum on the issue on the November ballot. The petition drive was successful, so the Maryland Dream Act could be overturned.

All of us need to be as watchful as the voters in Maryland. We need to pay attention to what our state legislators and our Congress is doing and make our voices heard, either for or against this type of legislation. The consequences for not doing so could wind up being a financial, as well as moral burden to us all.

Only at www.asamomestore.com

—Patsy Conreaux , asst. editor

September 2011 17

YYChildren

Photo Courtesy of the Meier Family

God’s Idea

My husband and I were making our way through an old car show when we came upon a model with the unfortunate moniker of “Demon”. An inscription on the rear windshield challenged, “Floor it ‘til you see the face of God, then brake hard.”

We had just come from grieving with friends whose 21-year old son had floored his motorcycle on a country road a mile from his home. His father said he was probably going about a hundred miles an hour (on a bike designed to max out close to 200) when he missed a curve. He is now beholding the face of God. Nathan was described at his funeral as a man of action who always yearned to go higher, farther, faster. It wasn’t his first crash. According to his mom, two others could have taken his life. So I struggled with the usual “why” questions, especially, ‘Why couldn’t he just slow down?”

I mused over our responsibility to those we love. If we truly love our spouse, our girlfriend, our siblings or children, don’t we owe it to them to be careful with our lives? I imagined a finger-wagging God meeting Nathan on that country road, wearing my frown.

Then, the minister said this at his 18 MinuteMom Magazine

funeral: “Nathan was God’s idea.”

“Fearless” said a co-worker as he described Nathan pulling raccoons out of the wall of the sporting goods store where they worked. When asked by the co-worker how many were left in the space they’d invaded, Nathan replied, “Three. Two that hiss and one that bites!”

“Stupid motivated,” said his drill sergeant of this young man who joined the National Guard and was impatient for his multi-deferred deployment to Afghanistan. He was as excited to do pre-dawn push-ups as he was bummed when he learned he wouldn’t be deployed to the red zone. And he had such an impact on this drill sergeant that he, himself was preparing to re-enlist for his third deployment, just to be with Nathan.

“Best friend” said his brother as he recounted Nathan climbing the outside of an apartment building to reach the third story balcony of his oldest brother. He’d walked seven miles to get there with a rucksack on his back, after school was canceled for the day because of snow. He was on a mission to hang out with his brother.

As a youngster, Nathan was quite honestly, the kind of boy that made me

beg God for girls. I didn’t grow up with brothers and I simply would not have known what to do with him. But his parents and his ten brothers and sisters knew. They joined him when he went water-skiing, tubing, rock climbing or swinging from a thirty-foot rope (that he’d shimmied up an 80-foot tree to install) just so they could take turns swinging off a dock into 8-feet of water. They recognized that this young man, whose favorite phrases included, “I’ve got this,” “Let’s do it!” and “Can we burn this?” is probably on the team that shoots stars now.

My friend says that as she stood at the bedside of her already-gone son, she told God she needed to hear something from Him about this. And she felt God reveal to her that Nathan was always hitting his head against the ceiling in this life (as his father put it, there were too many stationary objects in his way). And now, he’s no longer hitting his head because the ceiling has been removed and he can live as large as he wants to.

Because after all, Nathan was God’s idea.

—Regina Steiger , editor

www.AsAMom.org

YYGetting to Know

State Groups It is said, all politics are local, and it’s true. Our entire society is run locally.

For example, our county sheriffs have been called the most important politicians in each county. They’re the ones to whom the Federal Government must legally go in order to do anything that affects a county’s citizens.

And it is our schools which produce those future sheriffs, along with future police, lawyers, judges and lawmakers.

The schools also produce future voters who need to be able to discern the difference between opinion and fact, and be able to identify and be immune to manipulation. How can an organization such as As a Mom… help? ...A Natural Progression As moms come into As a Mom…, most tend to search the blogs and forums and many have become concerned. They have noticed the Constitution is being shredded and are reminded by the Tenth Amendment that, “The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.”

They consider the original purpose of our Federal Government. And as they learn what is happening in Washington and see what is happening in other states, they are led back to their own Senators and Congressmen.

They start looking at their county political parties to see how to vet candidates and get involved. They become acquainted with their local action As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

groups in order to share the information they learn on our site and to collectively watch their local Congressional representatives -- their votes, their statements and their actions. ...Turning To The States Many moms have begun to take a closer look at how the Federal Government affects our daily lives and the futures of our children. We remember the words in the Preamble to the Constitution which say, “...and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity....” We also consider the ways in which our state legislatures and our executive branches, our state judiciary and school boards affect us and our children.

It’s usually at this point, that many moms join their As a Mom... state group, if they haven’t already done so.

Ideally, this is where the action and transfer of knowledge takes place. Each group is dependent on the amount of people in it who contribute. And the more moms contribute to the state pages, give perspective on various people in their state houses, as well as their state government, and watch and comment on their local and district judges and their interpretation of the law, the stronger that state becomes. ...An Assignment For You Learn all you can. Join your state page. Research through valid publications and reports. Join the leadership teams if you would like. Become part of the precinct projects for the sake of

our freedom and for the Constitution, whether you be Republican, Democrat or Independent. Moms share information at the grocery store, at public parks, at various private parties, in the workplace and at PTA meetings.

Share what you learn in those places with other groups.

The time is drawing near for the primary season. Now, NOW is the time to take action and research. Learn how to communicate by computer. Do you really think we can wait another four years? Consider what we’re facing.

“Agenda 21” has already seeped into many of our communities. Do you know what it is? Do you recognize that it replaces American sovereignty with world governance? Is that even Constitutional?

Bear in mind what was said at the beginning of this article about the Constitution, our children and our future. Be part of your child’s education by looking at books and by going to PTA and school board meetings.

Find local candidates who are constitutionally driven and work to get them elected. Become that candidate yourself!

Remember the maxim, “If not me, then who?”

Groups can be found under the Tab on the main page called BE INVOLVED State Groups can be found at http:// www.asamom.org/page/by-state-1 —PJ B. Director of Groups

September 2011 19

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots launched 26 Setpember. ‘09 Lori takes a moment to pose after being on Glenn Beck’s radio show - October 2 ‘09 Minute Mom Call to Action – Michelle Bachman Health Care Rally - Many Moms from all across the US came as we joined others - Nov. 2009 A a Mom E-Store opens for business - Dec. ‘09

20 MinuteMom Magazine

www.AsAMom.org

scrapbook papers © ljpdesign 2006 photos curtisy of AAM members designs from AAM

2 years

of As A Mom...

AAM NATIONAL CONVENTION HELD IN YO U R HO ME TO W N

Launched AAM University, Daily Newscaps, Patriot Pin Program and Book Club - Dec. ‘09 9.12 Value of the Month – March ‘10 Seeing Red Rally – Red for our Health, Red for our Debt, Red for our Anger – March ‘10 Positively Presidential Broadcast – Feb ‘10

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

September 2011 21

Mom-made Patriot Quilt – d to assquares donate r silent semble quilt fo ‘10 auction – Sept.

Picnic – AAM Family – Aug. Say “Patriots” ‘10

Restoring Honor Rally – Aug. ‘10 hundreds of AAMers joined with hundreds of thousands of others for a truly historical morning.

Sue Maple Grove shows off her shirt that carried Moms in spirit with her to the Picnic and Rally

Women of Influence Banquet – Sept. ‘10 (above left to right) • Lori Parker speaks on being a Mommy Patriot • Anita Reeves receives the 2010 Women of Hope Awards given to a woman “who has demonstrated patriotism through dedicated efforts in home and family, future leaders, rising generation, influencing tomorrow’s leaders in home, family and/or community.”

• Star of 80’s TV show “Dallas”, Morgan Brittany delivers an address 9/11 Memorial – Sept. ‘10 & March on DC – Sept. ‘10

Inflation Survey – 5.7% rise in inflation during the 20 week period tracked – Nov. ‘10 Save It Read It – The Save the Constitution - Read It! Campaign is not a group or a program. It is an Attitude – July ‘10 National Executive Board Retreat in San Antonio, TX – Apr. ‘11

SAVE THE CONSTITUTION WWW.SAVEITREADIT.ORG

©

READ IT!

© 2010

AAM Stands with Israel BBB – Bringing comfort to the youngest victims of the flooding and tornadoes – May ‘10 Minute Mob = Flash Mob with a Minute Mom spin. Making a difference one act of kindness at a time – April & August ‘11 Fundraising Drives – Hoping for Change and Build-A-Bar

Paid Advertisement

Congratulations On the Inaugural Edition

Looking forward to many more!

YYValues

Humility… A Change of Heart

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

If we are filled with humility, we will be sensitive to the influence of the good, and will be teachable. It is during those “teachable moments” that we are molded into the person that best reflects our most honorable characteristics. The essence of humility begins inwardly. It is a breaking down of the superficial façade to the genuine character of a person. And it grants us a special sensitivity to those around us, allowing understanding, kindness, selflessness and charity to be exercised.

I cannot speak of humility without taking the time to mention prayer. The action of prayer is an edification of a humble heart – a heart that allows us to have an unhampered connection to our Father in Heaven. We call upon Him for relief, direction and peace.

It takes humility to call upon God for redress in our nation’s circumstances; to ask for help for things we once did on our own; to realize we don’t really have it all figured out; to apologize for wrongs we’ve committed; and to wait on God for justice when we’ve done all the right things-but been accused of all the wrong ones.

What amazes me about the particular values we highlight in the 9-12 Project, is that many of them have a companion value(s).

This companion

value is one that must also be exercised in order to understand and appreciate the essence of the other. In an article written on reverence I mentioned, “Reverence is the harmonious quality of both humility and respect, exercised in devotion to something sacred and tender.”

Likewise, humility is accompanied by reverence- a reverence for the change taking place within our hearts- and a willingness to let it happen [long-suffering].

The harmonious qualities of both reverence and trust in God, exercised in the spirit of meekness, are the essence of humility.

—Kami Watkins , CA

Illustation by L. Parker

Of all the values espoused by As a Mom…, I believe this one to be the most transparent, because of the effects it has on the heart. It represents a raw sense of our own frailties and limitations. It is at the center of our dependence upon our Creator-God Himself- and reminds us that pride and selfishness have no place where true works of the heart are concerned. If you ever hear the term, “change of heart”, you will most often find the value of humility involved.

I truly believe that humility is a tool that God uses to remind us that He is in charge… that we need Him. It is to remind us that unless we can truly submit to His will and His course, our path will be filled with constant upheavals and roadblocks. Simply put, God can see our full potential –the panoramic view- while we only have a Polaroid of who we are and where our actions will take us. He uses humility as a source of change for each of us. This change of heart is what will help us change our perspective. When this change happens, we will have a stark awareness of who we are, contrasted by who we were meant to become.

Through humility, we will come to an understanding that we do need our God. We will recognize that it is through Him that we are enlightened and are given the strength to carry on.

For none of us can abide the travails of life alone. When we gain the right perspective through a change of heart, we can see past those things that blind us toward ourselves and mankind, and that can impede our vision of truth and right.

September 2011 27

Nothing to love about America?

By Marlene Peterson Home Makers for America Vice-President www. homemakersforamerica.org The story our children are being told about America is not the same story children were told a hundred years ago. There are three key elements that are missing from today’s telling: 1. An acknowledgment that our system of government is the best system of government the world has ever seen and that it demands our diligence in understanding and maintaining it; 2. The belief that freedom is a rare gift that can only be held onto by a moral and religious people who comprehend liberty in law; 3. The idea that our nation was raised up by the Hand of Divine Providence and that our inalienable rights come from Him’ These three elements that are missing today are the very three pillars the school children of yesterday were taught our Republic rested upon-our patriotism, our character and our faith. They were told they would be reminded of them every time they looked at our flag.

The red stripes reminded them of the blood that was sacrificed for them and was a call to patriotism in defending their Constitution and freedom.

The white stripes stood for virtue and purity.

They understood a limited government only worked among a people who understood the personal responsibilities of freedom and were capable of self-governance.

Photo Courtesy of morguefile

An assignment was given to a Jr. High school class in Virginia recently. The students were to write about why they loved America. After the papers were turned in and graded, the teacher regretfully shared with the class that not one of them had come up with a single reason.

What good is a balanced budget, fresh faces in Congress and getting back to the Constitution if the next generation doesn’t love America and value freedom?

We, at Homemakers for America, believe a love of liberty is best grown in the home. We suggest a simple solution: Starting tonight, put down the book, look your kids or grandkids in the eyes and tell them a story from your heart about why YOU love America.

Pajamas are recommended.

It’s a formula that has worked throughout history and around the globe.

However, if you plan on stopping by your public library to pick up some American history books to take your stories from, you may want to reconsider.

28 MinuteMom Magazine

www.AsAMom.org

The white stars on a blue background reminded them of Heaven’s guiding and protective Hand.

The wonderful writers of yesterday were so anxious to instill these principles in the hearts of the next generation, that they filled their stories with examples and reminders.

From time to time, I plant myself on the floor of a public library in front of the American History shelf and look for these principles in our modern books. I’m not finding them. On my most recent visit, I finally found a reference to Columbus’ faith. But his claim that he felt inspiration from heaven is attributed to his malarial delirium.

Thomas Jefferson is portrayed as a hypocritical slaveholder, but, “Hey, we’re all human, aren’t we?” And the story of the genocide of the Native American is paraded over and over again.

Not much to love.

It appears our three pillars are gradually being replaced with just one -- money. The story of Plymouth and its seekers of religious freedom is being replaced with Jamestown and its seekers of economic prosperity as the root of our nation. Most everyone seems to think that if the economy turns around, America will be just fine. But freedom is not the product of a strong economy. Rather, a strong economy is the product of freedom, and freedom rests on the three pillars that are being systematically removed. What happens if our one pillar, the economy, gives way? What will hold us up?

Even Joseph Stalin recognized the secret of America’s strength: “America is like a healthy body and its resistance is threefold: its Patriotism, its Morality, and its Spiritualism.”

How “healthy” is America’s body today?

We call on the mothers and fathers and grandparents of America to rebuild these pillars. And the way we rebuild them is through the stories we share heart-to-heart with our children and grandchildren. It is not in the classroom that we will restore America’s liberty but in our homes.

If you need help, check out the stories at gardenofliberty. org.

Nothing to love about America? We need to give our children reasons to love her every single day. We can restore the heart of America, one story at a time. When the heart is strong, America will thrive.

Marlene Peterson is the mother of nine children and grandmother of five. She serves as VP of Homemakers for America and is Founder of Libraries of Hope. She and her husband, Brent, reside in Appomattox, VA.

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

Want to do something really important for America’s future?

Starting tonight put down the book, look your kids or grandkids in the eyes, and tell them a story from your heart of why you love America.

Pajamas recommended.

YOU WILL FIND A PLENTIFUL SUPPLY OF STORIES TO DRAW FROM THAT WILL INSPIRE PATRIOTISM, CHARACTER & FAITH AT:

gardenofliberty.org Look for the Freedom Series12 volumes of stories drawn from pre-1923 literature written for young people.

Receive a book-a-month.

“A love of liberty is best grown in the home.”

YYAs Seen on AAM The As a Mom... website (asamom.org) is often the location for lively discussions as well as spirited debates. We’d like to feature some of those discussions here in As Seen on AAM, knowing that it’s quite likely you’ll want to jump in there after reading here.

Questions for Presidential Candidates As the political season heats up, presidential hopefuls are getting bombarded with questions. Some are serious; some ridiculous. Last month, As a Mom... chatters began compiling the following list of what they think the candidates should address.

Pertaining to the Office YY Do you believe the country needs to be run by the U.S. Constitution?

Bill of Rights YY Where do you stand on the Second Amendment? What circumstances would limit the 2nd Amendment?

Immigration/Border issues YY What would you do to secure the border?

Congress YY Will you push for term limits for those serving in the Senate and the House? If not, why not?

Bills YY What is your position on the way bills are written and delivered to the desk of the President? Should the format change? If so, how?

Military YY For what purposes should our military be engaged in other nations? How would you go about deploying our troops?

U.N./World Governance YY Should the United States interject herself into the domestic affairs of foreign powers? If yes, what

would keep other countries from becoming militarily involved in future domestic disputes in the United States?

YY Please explain your thoughts on Agenda 21. Do you think this ideal conforms to our Constitution? What would you do to stop communities from entering into these contracts with foreign entities?

Education YY 1. Would you support education policy being returned to the states?

What do you think?

For this and more join the discussion at: http://bit.ly/oqTc70

Agenda 21 What if I said to you that the very existence of mankind is a problem, one that is destroying the earth? What if I told you that we consume too many resources and the more people there are, the more pollution we will create?

Sounds a bit crazy doesn’t it? This is only a small glimpse into the mindset of “Agenda 21”. Several of our Moms have had their own experiences with this topic lately.

pendents. Most did not agree politically on social issues. However, once attendees learned what was happening to our cities, counties and states, they joined arms and said, “ENOUGH!” Read her account here: http://bit.ly/pP7urn What do you think?

Check out the discusion started by Val here: http://bit.ly/oStn4Z

30 MinuteMom Magazine

Photo Dreamstime

P. Smith - CA Assistant Chairmom had the opportunity to travel to a conference called “Behind the Green Mask.”

Speakers included conservatives, liberals, Democrats, Republicans, and Indewww.AsAMom.org

                         

Standing with Israel

There are several conversations about Israel found on AsAMom.org. Simply enter “Israel” in the search box in the upper right corner of the screen.

Get your own free printable signs at : http://bit.ly/pPjy2h and show your support.

               

Paperback: List $12.99 - $11.00 Audio Book: List $24.99 - $20.00 Audio only downloads also available: www.longingforeden.com

Washington State “We Stand With Israel” Rally The “We Stand With Israel” rally was held at the State Capitol in Olympia, Washington, a neutral, yet strategic, location. It began with the blowing of the shofars, an ancient Hebrew instrument traditionally used to announce a gathering or used in worship. The “Star-Spangled Banner “was sung and “Hatikvah”, the Israeli national anthem was also sung in Hebrew (with English translation on the plasma TV screens). We sang and danced to two traditional Hebrew folksongs and sang “God Bless America”.

We viewed portions of the 3 “Restoring Courage” Glenn Beck events in Jerusalem: Courage to Love (8/21), Courage to Remember (8/22), Courage to Stand. There were 200+ in attendance (Evangelicals, Catholics, Orthodox Jews, Messianic Jews, LDS) with people from all over the As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

state. One couple drove 3.5 hours one-way just to be there.

We had a pastor say a prayer of blessing and read scriptures at the early part of the rally and then a rabbi closed with some very timely and provocative words. We ended in a Hebrew prayer and song. People truly felt unified at this gathering and we know that this is not the end, but the beginning of something more to

come. But the main point that came out of this day was I know we pleased the heart of God. -2 Blondes Mom (Candace)

September 2011 31

YYIn the Spotlight Samantha H / IN

2Blondes Mom / WA

We are happy to shine our spotlight on AAM member, 2 Blondes Mom (Candace) this month. She found AAM while searching for a summer camp with a patriotic curriculum, for her girls. She joined her state group in Washington right away. While reading some of a discussion in Chat one day, she saw that someone was asking if anyone was planning an event to coincide with Glenn Beck’s, Restoring Courage event on 8-24-11, in the western Washington area. Candace was compelled, she believes by God, to organize a statewide rally for Israel.

“We Stand With Israel” will be held at the Washington state capitol of Olympia.

Candace met with her state Chairmom Brenda Ready and spoke to Lori Parker twice on the phone in preparation for this event. Candace said AAM was an instrumental part of this vision for the 8/24 Israel rally. This project has 32 MinuteMom Magazine

taken up most of her summer, planning, marketing and getting it organized, with the help of other “moms”, friends, her dad, and her brother-inlaw Mike. AAM member Janice Barrera played her own crucial role in this endeavor, securing the location for the event, which happens to be the Washington state capitol!

Candace and her husband, Steve will celebrate their 20th Anniversary in February of 2012. They have two daughters, Emerson (8) and Ellery (6). They have a Ragdoll kitty named “Pish-Posh”. Candace is a stay-athome mom. She teaches pre-school two mornings a week, from September through May. She says, “We are involved in our church and know out of our relationship with Jesus comes everything else”.

As a Mom...is blessed to have Candace as part of our group and we congratulate her for being in the “Member Spotlight” this month! www.AsAMom.org

Photos Provided

tives, writing to her Congress-person We are proud to shine our spotlight and talking to random strangers in on Indiana Mom, Samantha H this stores about government policies! Just month. Samantha is a young mother recently Samantha organized the effort of two sons, Michael (5) and Morgan in Indiana for the AAM event, Minute (3). She calls them “cute and terroriz- Mob-Back To School Edition. Read ing”. She has been married to Steven, all about it, here.

What Samantha loves most about the for eight years and is a stay-at-home AAM site are the other moms. They mom. lift her when she is feeling down and Samantha has been a member here at AAM since shortly after Lori’s first they’re even helping her find a place to appearance on Glenn Beck, in 2009. relocate her family. She has had nothSamantha is an active member both on ing but good experiences at As a Mom... site and off. She posts her own discus- and the “moms” have taught her many sions and makes comments in others’ things.

As a Mom...is blessed to have Samandiscussions, as well. She has joined several groups on the site and participates tha as a member, and we congratulate her for being in the “Member Spotin Chat.

Samantha says she has done things light” this month! she has never done before joining AAM, such as calling Representa-

MamaCapps / SC

We now shine our spotlight on MamaCapps (Debbie) from the state of South Carolina. Known first as the “Internet Advice Mom”, she became MamaCapps over the years. But to many of us here at AAM, she is just known as “Mama”. She is a retired nurse, mom of four of her own and numerous foster children. She is a homeschool advocate, motivational speaker, and sales trainer. She is also a lupus and brain tumor survivor.

MamaCapps joined AAM in search of a conservative group that would provide education as well as uphold the 9/12 Principals. Shortly after joining, she became very active as the SC Chairmom. She now works with the AAM national team, to educate and motivate parents and friends on how to become involved, and make a difference.

Janice Barrera / WA

AAM turns the spotlight on Janice Barrera, a mom from Washington State. Janice has been a single working mom for most of her life. She believes in hard work and God. She just recently sent her youngest son off to college. She has one granddaughter, with whom she spends as much time with as possible. She has been a chemical dependency counselor for the past sixteen years and loves working with people.

She joined AAM after hearing about it on the Glenn Beck program and has made many new friends all over the nation. Her favorite “hang out” on AAM is Chat. She has laughed, cried, bragged and complained, and has always felt supported there.

Janice met our other Washington Spotlight Member Candace on AAM and had no idea what a pro at organizing and coordinating events she is!

Together they hosted the aforemen-

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

In her own words: “I hope to show others that overcoming adversity of any kind is a strength we all have inside.

The change the world needs starts with two people -- you and me. We all have a part to play, no matter how big or small. Being a part of AAM has been a true blessing and a learning adventure.

The AAM family is a widely diverse group, but a family nonetheless. I am grateful to be a part of the group that I now call Family.”

MamaCapps is an inspiration to us all here at AAM. She always makes time for anyone who needs it, and has a sweet, giving, loving nature that makes her a joy to know. Her sense of humor is a gift that all who know her enjoy and appreciates. AAM is blessed to have her as a member (and part of our family) and we congratulate her for being in the “Member Spotlight” this month!

tioned Restoring Honor/We Stand With Israel rally in the capitol of Olympia, WA. With the blessing of Brenda (WA Chairmom) and Lori Parker (AAM President), they promoted AAM and our “Hoping for Change” project at the event.

Janice says, that AAM is a place to find opportunities to help each other.

She says we are all living the intent of the Constitution. Some of the wonderful aspects of the AAM site for her are sharing political information, Minute Mob events, the Blankets, Books and Buddies Program and acts of kindness. She believes one person can’t do it alone, but together each voice counts, and any one of us may be the one to push things to the next level. She says “Thank you, Lori.”

As a Mom...is blessed to have Janice as part of our group and we congratulate her for being in the ‘Member Spotlight” this month!

September 2011 33

Paid Advertisement

Â

Congratulations on Minute Mom Launch

YYPoem

Dream Catcher Came upon a dream catcher Tattered and forlorn.

There close beside it a Bible, pages old and worn…

They rested on a table inside a tiny thrift shop store with a sign below that read “free” And I knew as I held them, They would now belong to me.

Between the red covers of the Bible hand written notes bold and sure, slowly transformed before my eyes as untold years took their toll.

A bit of a tremble to the written script notes no longer neat and tidy by the end.

My mind turned to thoughts about the person who had loved this book.

Who had written, highlighted, underlined and generously marked important passages?

I wondered how family had let this go, the treasure I held in my hands…

To let it slip from a place of importance, to discarded, unwanted, sent away.. now “free” in a thrift shop just one step short of trash.

The dream catcher fared not much better.

Its body made of thin curly maple branches worked to create a rough circle framing a spider web weave of leather.

The feathers and beads had seen better days but the overall handiwork still held true to its creator’s loving hand.

Could not help but smile as I caressed it Wondering what dreams were locked within.

The dream catcher and the Bible that now belonged to me…

Photo MourgeFile

These things held importance.

Here was the heart and thoughts of people I would never know.

I could not bring myself to walk away.

As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots®

I had to give them a home.

Oh the wonders we can gather along this path of life.

If we would but slow down long enough To enjoy the beauty that gently calls us Away from the hurry and the strife…

If we could but marvel at the wonders God has created just for us And thank Him for His blessings Even if it’s only for this day’s breath…

I say these things most sincerely As of late my life has held much pain.

So I picked up the little red Bible and dream catcher once again…

They remind me of what is important, that happiness is not a thing but a place the mind must travel when we feel lost in what life brings..

I only wish I could tell them, The people who once loved these Simple things ... of the calm and peace They have brought me through life’s difficult utterings -Jerrie Ross

September 2011 35

YYAs A Family As a family is designed to assist in the “teach” portion of the 9-12 value.

Humility For the Parent: This lesson will help your family understand the importance of being humble. Familiarize yourself with two stories about Moses (Exodus 18:13-24 & Numbers 11:27-29) and with the story of the Savior washing the disciples’ feet ( John 13:3-9) Preparation: Bible & a small thin balloon (deflated) Suggested Lesson: What does it mean to be humble?

(Teachable, not prideful, meek, recognizes dependence on God, willing to submit to God’s will, & recognizes the value of others) Moses was an example of humility.

Read: Exodus 18:13-24 How did Moses react when Jethro, his father-in-law, gave him counsel on leading the people?

(He was teachable & gratefully accepted the counsel from Jethro and applied it immediately. Moses was over 80 years old at the time, but he was still willing to take counsel and learn!) *Discuss any other thoughts* Read: Numbers 11:27-29 What was Moses’ reaction to the two men who prophesied?

(Moses did not envy those who had also received gifts from the Lord. He wanted all of the Lord’s people to be

36 MinuteMom Magazine

blessed by the Lord’s spirit.) *Discuss any other thoughts* Humility is not a sign of weakness, timidity, or fear; it is an indication that we know where our true strength lies -- in God. Being humble directs our attention and love towards others and to God’s purposes.

So HOW can we become humble?

Humility is the opposite of pride.

When our hearts are full of charity, we have no room for pride. Pride draws its energy and strength from the deep wells of selfishness. There are so many people in need whom we could be thinking about instead of ourselves.

We have no time to become selfabsorbed.

We don’t discover humility by thinking less of ourselves; we discover humility by thinking less about ourselves! *Discuss the meaning of this sentence* Read: John 13:3-9 How does this story of Christ washing the disciples’ feet demonstrate humility?

(The Savior Who was “greatest of all”, was humble enough to serve & wash the disciples’ feet. Also, we learn through Peter, that sometimes we have to be humble enough to receive service.) *Discuss any thoughts on this story*

www.AsAMom.org

Being humble brings great blessings.

Read: James 4:6 & 10 If we choose to be humble, the Lord blesses us with great strength!

Amen.

Adapted For Younger Children Make a chart with one side labeled “Humility Is” & the other side labeled “Humility Is Not.” Make word strips that describe humility, such as teachable, loving, dependent on the Lord, obedient to God, & gracious; and word strips that don’t, such as proud/prideful, arrogant, boastful, weak, & lacking confidence.

Let the children pick a word strip.

Discuss what it means & decide where it should go on the chart.

Next, discuss achievements & successes of the members of your fam-

ily, (for example musical talent, good grades, sports, etc.) Compliment each family member for their achievement.

Ask each family member to tell who is responsible for the achievement or ability, (for example, a child might say how hard he/she worked for his/her achievement).

Also, ask who else helped make their success possible, (for example, “Mom took me to practices,” or “Dad taught me how to play the game,”).

Finally, ask how God has helped in their achievement, (for example, “God blessed me with a strong healthy body that I could play soccer with.”).

Point out that being humble does not mean denying our achievements. But it does mean acknowledging the source of our blessings.

End with an object lesson – when we’re “puffed up” with pride, it’s like

blowing air in a balloon. If we blow too much air in a balloon, it will explode/ pop. Our spirit is the same way. If we become too puffed up with pride, our spirit becomes destroyed!

Adapted For Older Children Discuss specific times when the Savior showed humility.

Read: Luke 18:9-14 Discuss the parable of the Pharisee & the publican.

How can the differences between the Pharisee & publican help us to define humility?

Set goals and challenge family members to develop Christ-like humility.

—mary McDonald AAM Secretary

YYConstitution What is black and tan and not read all over?

Twenty- five years ago this month, I learned the answer to that question the hard way.

In 1986, as a college freshman I attended a special forum celebrating the start of the bicentennial year of the Constitution. As I listened to the presentations, I found myself wanting to study the Constitution and better understand it. I was so inspired by the speaker, Ezra Taft Benson, Secretary of Agriculture under President Eisenhower, that as soon as the forum was over, I went to the university bookstore and purchased the speaker’s book as well as my very first pocket Constitution. I immediately fulfilled the speaker’s challenge to every university student to read the Constitution.

A few weeks later, I was presented with the opportunity to write papers for my college classes. Being the smart freshman I was, I decided to write the same paper for my American history class as I was writing for my English class; I wrote on the importance of the Constitution. I received both papers

back the same week receiving an “A” on American history paper but only a “B” on the English paper. I was perplexed because there wasn’t a mark on the paper. I went to speak with my English teacher about it and asked him why I had received a “B”. The answer surprised me. He told me that part of the purpose of this paper was to write to our peer group and that since I had written on the Constitution he felt that the majority of my peers would not understand the paper as they had not read the Constitution.

As we talked, I pointed out that we had had the special forum on the Constitution where all students had been challenged to read the document and therefore they should have taken up the challenge, which would have made my paper peer-appropriate. However, my teacher continued to argue that regardless of what challenge they were given, nobody had actually read the Constitution since that forum and “B” would stay a “B.” In an attempt to disprove him, I asked my classmates if they had read the Constitution, I was sadly disappointed with their answers, and the “B” still stands. No amount

of persuasion on my part changed the fact that most students simply have not and would not read the Constitution.

September 17th will be the 224th birthday of the Constitution. Celebrate by reading it with your family and commit to reviewing it often. One idea is to read it on the 17th of each month to review.

Let us all do our part to follow this admonition of Abraham Lincoln from his Lyceum Address: Let every American, every lover of liberty, every well wisher to his posterity, swear by the blood of the Revolution, never to violate in the least particular, the laws of the country; and never to tolerate their violation by others. As the patriots of seventy-six did to the support of the Declaration of Independence, so to the support of the Constitution and Laws, let every American pledge his life, his property, and his sacred honor; --let every man remember that to violate the law, is to trample on the blood of his father, and to tear the character of his own, and his children’s liberty. Let reverence for the laws, be breathed by every American mother, to the lisping babe, that prattles on her lap-let it be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges; let it be written in Primers, spelling books, and in Almanacs;--let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice. And, in short, let it become the political religion of the nation; and let the old and the young, the rich and the poor, the grave and the gay, of all sexes and tongues, and colors and conditions, sacrifice unceasingly upon its altars.

—Lori Parker AAm President

P.S. Happy Birthday to the United States Consitution!

38 MinuteMom Magazine

www.AsAMom.org

Photo Courtesy of Dreamstime

{Hint: It will be 224 years old September 17}

The Save the Constitution - Read It! Campaign is not a group or a program.

It is an Attitude.

The purpose of Save it! Read it! is to encourage patriots everywhere to do two things: 1. Commit to reading The Constitution and review it often.

2. Encourage others to read the Constitution.

We have received challenges to read and defend the Constitution of the United States of America from various sources. All of us must commit to reading the Constitution of the United States of America and review it often. Only by understanding the principles upon which our government was founded can we recognize Constitutional abuses and be able to step up and stop that abuse.

The Save the Constitution - Read It! Campaign started as an extension of the Patriot Pin Program developed by As a Mom... A Sisterhood of Mommy Patriots to encourage patriots everywhere to save the principles of the Constitution of the United States of America.

Classroom packs of 25 bookmarks are available from www.AsAMom.org Pins, Pendants and bumper stickers are at www.asamomestore.com

www.SaveItReadIt.org Š2010 As A Mom...A Sisterhood of Mommy PatriotsŽ www.asamom.org