Brave New World by Aldous Huxley

I just finished reading Brave New World by Aldous Huxley. I sat down one evening and got through about 1/3 of the book. It was unbelievable, and I didn't want to put it down. I dont want to do a "long-story;short" on this book, because I'm hoping you'll read it for yourself if you have not already, but I will say, the first third of the book was fascinating to me that a man in the 1930's could have fathomed some of the concepts that were in this book, the scientific developments he referenced had to be seen in his day as just as extreme as people being teleported star-trek style, but when put into perspective, (although still a bit far-fetched) it is what current scientists are trying to attain, and feel it is within their grasp. Cloning, embryonic stem cell research, cell manipulation; these things are currently in practice, although not quite perfected. How far ahead of his time this man Huxley was. I was very impressed at his foresight........then I read on. The second night I sat down again to this book, I was still impressed at how previous his thinking was in matters of scientific advancement. I had no clue how much deeper this book would get in the second 2/3's. I was impressed by the first portion of the book. I was blown away, astounded and frightened by the latter part. As I read it I found myself thinking that his ideas of this society were so outrageous that it was unfathomable. Then I would pause and almost correct my thinking. These outrageous things that are taking place in this "utopian" society are not so far off from the way we live today. In the book, God has been "done away with", he was no longer referenced, recognized. His presence was not needed, since there was no moral compass anymore. That is a somewhat unrealistic theme in book, because we as a society would NEVER try to "do away" with God, right? I mean, we have "In God We trust" on our money, we wouldn't take it off, would we? We wouldn't take God out of our schools, would we??? Yes, I decided that was unrealistic for today (hmmm...)...Moving on; Casual sex and promiscuity are the norm; so much so that being with one partner for too long was frowned upon. Marriage is no more. For entertainment, everyone piles up in the "theater" to watch movies laden with sex and love affairs (oh, nothing like what's playing at the Hollywood 20 today I'm sure....), and when you're upset, uncomfortable, no need to feel your emotional discomfort, or try to deal with it or work through it...take a pill. A pill to solve all of life's problems. To cure what ails you. We dont do that today either...do we? Also in the book, children are desensitized to death at a young age by being taken to hospitals to watch people die. In reality, we today would never do that...especially when we just have to turn on the TV...get the job done without leaving the house, you know what I mean? There are so many different aspects of the book, I'm sure I would be able to address them all, but a few more worthy of mention; everything available at the touch of a button, media relishing in other people's misfortune, individuals at the "top" controlling the flow of information to the public, instant gratification...this book is just sooooo outlandish, soooooo far fetched, I have deemed it a must-read.

Cant...hold...back....anymore!!!!!!

I was always told that there are a few things that may be improper to discuss publicly; among those, religion and politics. I have really tried to behave and follow those guidelines, but unfortunately cannot hold back any longer, besides, i figure if you are taking the time to read this, you are most likely either family or friends, and already know where I stand. I am a God-fearing Christian woman, and feel that as such it is my responsibility to choose public officials that share my same values and beliefs. I don't always consider myself republican. Although I find that for the most part, their conservative views represent my own. Even they have disappointed me from time to time, so lets just say I'm a conservative, and whatever partisan group that puts me in that's where I am. I believe that killing babies is wrong. I will not support a politician that thinks otherwise, else my views wouldn't be represented. I believe marriage is not a social arrangement, but rather a union honored by God Almighty, and should only be between a man and a woman. Lets not forget why Sodom and Gomorrah was destroyed, it is not natural and displeases God. During the recent election I was troubled to hear that many of my Christian friends were voting for Barack Obama. Preachers, Ministers and church goers alike were flocking to the vote to "make history". Was it because of the color of his skin? Is voting for someone SOLELY because of the color of his skin not just as racist as NOT voting for someone just because of the color of their skin? Does it matter to these Christians that the person they elected into office supports things that their Lord and Savior DOES NOT support? I wish someone could answer these questions for me...

Anyway!!! Moving on...There are a few people that I would like to mention...

Starting with...Janeane Garofalo...for those of you who don't know who she is, don't feel bad, she hasn't been doing much lately and has made a recent bid not to float away into obscurity...which is what put her on my list today...Regarding the Tea Parties that were taking place all over America on Tax Day...I feel that these were completely legitimate. I agree with the complaint of many of the people out there that day. My three children will bear the tax burden put in place by our recent stimulus debacle. They will be paying for Pig Odor Research and Water Parks, Honey Bee Farms and New Snazzy Hybrid Cars (Made in Japan) to replace the current Federal Automobile Fleet. People have a right to be upset, and that silly ol' Constitution gives them a right to be vocal with their qualms...but our friend Janeane doesn't agree. This is what she said on MSNBC talking to Keith Olbermann about the Tea Parties...

"they have no idea what the Boston Tea Party was about, they dont know their history at all. This is about hating a black man in the White House. This is racism straight up. That is nothing but a bunch of teabagging rednecks."

Now, let me remind you that these were perfectly peaceful protests...perhaps this brainless idiot would have been happier with the protests if they had sacrificed a fetus or two while they were there. Please Janeane, spare us your political nonsense and go back to taking secondary roles in D-List movies that no one cares to watch. I'm over it. And to Keith Olbermann for so anxiously jumping on Janeane's bandwagon of hate...Is that Journalism?

NEXT

Miss California, Carrie Prejean; This is a beautiful young woman who, during the Miss USA Pageant April 19, 2009 was asked a question about her views on Gay Marriage, to which she replied...

"We live in a land that you can choose same-sex marriage or opposite marriage and, you know what, in my country and my family I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anyone out there, but that's how I was raised and that's how I think it should be between a man and a woman."

She was, of course, blasted for her views, but stood up for what she believed in nonetheless, and for that I applaud her. She's my Hero for the day.

Nana-versary - April 14, 2009

Beautifully Written by my Aunt Kimmie...I had to share it...

Dear Family:

I can hardly believe it; five years ago today our beautiful Momma/Nana went home to be with Jesus. It sometimes feels like so long ago, other times I feel like we just said our goodbyes. When it was a new loss, I found myself worrying about how unhappy or happy she was at the end, I hoped that she didn't feel alone and that she didn't feel any of the sadness that goes along with such a long illness. Lately, though, when I remember her, she's always laughing, being silly, like she could be. Remember how she made that funny little squawk noise when she was surprised by something; how she said Dad's name when she was fussing at him, "Jay"! Or how when she held things in her hands her little pinkies were always up.

I know she wouldn't want us to dwell on the unhappy...she loved us all so much; her capacity to love was HUGE! She loved the Lord in that same exhuberant way, as well; her Bible might not have survived another five years with her, LOL.

I am so amazed at the love the Lord has for us to bless us with such an awesome matriarch, even for such a short time. We must all be very special to Him to be entrusted to our Mom.

John, she stayed planted firmly on that promise that she would see you saved; I don't think gravity could have pulled her away from this world without that fulfillment, she loved you.

Beth and Melody; we had a role model so rare, I always hear her say: "that's not lady-like" and I immediately remember what lady-like really is; I never wanted to disappoint her. I can't imagine being a bad mother, I never saw the example of one. She was the epitome of the virtuous woman.

To the grandkids: Johnny, Stephanie, Kristin, Amanda, Josh, Stephen, Derek, Courtney, Jacob, Jordyn & Sydney - you all made her so proud to be a grandmother, but, she thought of each of you in such a special way, I remember watching her eyes when she talked about you, her face literally shone with the pride that came from being your Nana.

To the greats (Gage, Madeline, Isabelle, Delana & Zayne): Make your parents tell you all the funny stories they can remember about her. There should be volumes written about your Nana.

Dad: I know you're a "Hallmark crybaby"; but, I just wanted to let you know how grateful I am that you fell in love with our mom, she made us all who we are, even you. YOU DID GOOD!

Hope I didn't come across as a bummer today, I really am in the mood to celebrate her. I think everyone of us should write down one special story (there are more funny ones than sad) and share it with each other via e-mail this week.

I count us as the most privileged family in the world, raised, reared and loved so well. So, pinkies up, everybody! Happy "Nana-versary"!

Holidays at the Addis home

Tis the Season! I am three holidays behind so I'll play catch up really quickly.....

Halloween was a blast, Gage was a Clemson Quarterback (it's about time we got a decent one!!!), and ever so handsome, and both my prissy little gals were Hannah Montana. See BELOW...

Aren't they stinkin cute!!!!

okay, moving on, we still have a few more holidays to cover....

It seems like the very nexy weekend, we were preparing for Thanksgiving. We had a great time with our extended family, although we were missing the California crew terribly. Hopefully we'll get Derek and his peoples to come East Coasting next year???!!!???!! Anyway, enough campaigning for now, back to the topic at hand...Turkey Day...I'm terrible and didn't take any pictures that day, but I figure since Thanksgiving is about family, and being thankful for what you have, here's what I'm thankful for....(I caught this picture when no one was looking, after dinner at Ryan's buffet...)

And last but not least, my favorite Holiday of the year... Christmas is in 2 days and the kids are SO anxious and excited. We sent out Christmas cards this year. It was quite and adventure trying to get the right picture. It seems like I couldn't get them all looking at the camera or smiling at the same time. I think I went through at least 100 shots before I gave up. I eventually did find one that worked really well, but below you'll get a taste of what I went through to get it...

As you can see, it was quite an ordeal, all-in-all we had a blast and eventually wound up with a great Christmas card....


I'll post more after Santa pays us a visit. In the meantime, to all reading, Have a Blessed and Merry Christmas;

Lots of Love,

From the Addis Home

Isabelle (Stinkerbelle) (Izzy) (Elle)

Name : Isabelle Grace

Age : 2

Hobbies : Dancing to "Happy Feet", Eating anything she can get her hands on. Expressing herself artistically on every wall, important piece of paper, or picture she can find. Laughing, singing, playing. You name it, she'll be as happy as can be doing it.

My Youngest...my baby...she has grown up so fast!!!

She has always had a smile that would light up any room, anywhere.

And a sense of humor.....

Isabelle is as beautiful and mischievous as they come. She's quite a little jokester, always hiding things and she gets this look, this little grin on her face when she knows that you have just realized that something has gone missing and only she knows where she put it. She loves Dora the Explorer and speaks Spanish better than most adults I know. It pains me to watch how fast she is moving from giggly baby to bouncy toddler and into such a fun kid. I'm trying to hold on to memories of my babies, but everyday they are growing up. It's happening right before my eyes. I've been blessed beyond measure to have the children I have. Each of them is so different, unique and special. They have each taught me so much. Gage taught me patience, Madelyn tamed my tongue, and Izzy keeps teaching me everyday how to laugh. No need to be so serious when there is so much fun to be had.

Princess Madelyn

Name : Madelyn Susannah

Age : 4

Hobbies : Playing Dress-Up, Acting like Hannah Montana, Gymnastics, All Things Girly and pretty


May I introduce MISS Maddie Addis. The girliest girl in the world. She's so beautiful it hurts...and I think she knows it too. She's in Kindergarten this year. She comes home everyday telling stories of boys on the playground that said they were her boyfriend, but she told them no they weren't, etc, etc. It's pretty cute for now, but one day, Russell and I are in real trouble. She is so precious and so smart. You wouldn't believe how bright she is. I know every mother says that about their children, but this time it's true ;) She's a sponge for information. If she hears it once, you had better believe it has been permanently stored...keep that in mind when offering opinions about people when she is within earshot. She will still tell anyone who will listen that Rosie O'Donnell is an idiot...and she was in the other room when I said it. My sweet little Maddie has taught me to tame my tongue...because little pictures have big ears!

Ragin' Gage

Name : Gage Michael

Age : 7

Hobbies : Coloring, drawing, playing baseball, football, bouncing off walls, Playing Lego Star Wars

Gage is such a special boy. He's sweet, so so sweet. He is polite and respectful. He has good manners. He's funny. When he was a baby, he had colic and cried for months without rest. I was 19, and he was teaching me how to be patient; how to be a mother. He is now in the second grade, and doing very well. He has a memory that blows me away. He tells me he can take pictures in his mind, and then will grab paper and a pencil and recreate everything he saw in great detail. In our church Christmas Program, he could be heard singing above everyone else, and by the time it was over, he was called back out to the stage to take a bow. He stole the show.

What Happens in the Minivan Doesn't Stay in the Minivan...Apparently the only thing guaranteed to Stay in the minivan are the fries we had for lunch.

Being a mother has brought my life so much laughter and happiness. I swear I've got the funniest kids ever. There is never a dull moment, so even when driving down the road, I usually have my camera within an arms reach so I can catch a few un-rehearsed performances from the stars in my life. Take a moment, if you would, and enjoy one such moment we had this summer. Isabelle was quite obviously the Star of this show. For a little background info, Isabelle was singing a song from "The Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" and when her brother and sister joined in the performance, she got "so angry"...Have a sneak peak inside one of many Minivan Adventures.

Beefcake - A great dish.

"For two people in a marriage to live together day after day is unquestionably the one miracle the Vatican has overlooked."

-Bill Cosby

I can't really give a proper introduction of myself without including a very important other half. Here's the scoop on this really great looking guy I met at church...




Born and raised in South Carolina, he's a true-blue southern boy (He's got that really cute drawl when he talks). He likes old country music, like George Jones and Johnny Cash, he watches westerns and owns a cowboy hat. He's athletic; used to be basketball, but now it's bodybuilding and he's not the type that half-way does anything. He's in the gym ALL the time. He loves Jesus and reads bible stories to the kids. He's a great father. He sings "hush little baby" to the girls at night and throws the football with Gage in the afternoons. He remembers everything...Everything. Mildly Obsessive Compulsive. He keeps his shoes on right up until climbing in the bed at night (that one drives me a bit crazy). To the kids, he's superman. He's got the best smile ever. He's strong and outgoing. He's a good friend.

I first saw him when visiting a church with my Mom. I glanced backwards at the clock and there he was, all dressed up, tan skin...wow. He left right after church and I didn't get to meet him, so I came back to church that night to see if he would be there again. Sure enough. He was sitting in the second to last pew...all alone. I sat down at the other end of the same pew...all alone. We looked at each other and exchanged a quick smile and I tried desperately not to look over again for the rest of the service. After church I grabbed a gal I had met that morning and asked who he was. She gave me a grin, said "come on...this is going to be trouble..." grabbed my hand and took me over to introduce us. We had dinner at Guadelajaras Mexican restaurant that night with a large group of people, and when everyone left, we stayed in the parking lot and talked for quite a while. He was wearing a t-shirt that said "smooth" on the front. Maybe that's what gave him the confidence to tell me, after knowing each other for only a few hours, that I needed him and couldn't live without him. I disagreed, of course...(hard to get?), but it turns out he was right. Don't tell him I said so. That was our start. I still see him the same way I did that Sunday in August years back. We were married in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and have been working towards happily ever after ever since.

Finding Me(mo)

For my first entry into the world of blogging, I thought an introduction would be appropriate, although not the most original idea, since everyone else does the same thing with their first blog...My name is Amanda Leeanne Addis. I have three amazing children; 7, 4 and 2. You'll be hearing lots about them, since they are my purpose in life, but in the meantime, a little background is in order...

"What's in a name? that which we call a rose, by any other name would smell as sweet"

-Shakespeare (Romeo and Juliet)

I started life as Amanda Lee Brown (shout out to mom for not giving in and naming me Catheema Arlene like Grandma wanted). After the ink on my birth certificate was dry, Mom changed her mind and unofficially added Anne to my middle name.

=Amanda Leeanne Brown

As rambunctious youngster with a big mouth and a little attitude, my aunts renamed me again. I wasn't to fond of the nickname at the time, but it's grown on me.

=Demanda Leeandra (Demanda because I was demanding I guess, and Leeandra was some crazy woman from church...In retrospect, I'm still not too fond of that particular nickname...)

In elementary school and all the way through High School, as a much smaller student than my peers, I was given the nickname "Peanut". It stuck in about the 6th grade and still lingers to this day with old friends from school (Hi Lisa). With my cousins it was "Bean" because when Courtney tried to say "Amanda" it sounded more like "Beaner".

When the time came to make the switch from "Miss Brown" I gladly traded it for "Mrs. Addis", thanks to my Hubby, Russ. I call him beefcake and he calls me "Mandy".

Now on to my favorite. As you can tell, I've been called many things in my day. Some nice, some not so much.

I'm blessed more than words can express that the greatest human beings alive today...call me..."Momma". I'm a lucky gal.