Future Daddy

You Might Be A Child of '80's If..............

2005-10-04T10:18:00.000-04:00

You might be a child of the 80's if...

This timeline appropriately describes actual events in your life:

STAR WARS opens, you are still in the single digit years, and you think the creatures are WAY cool.

EMPIRE STRIKES BACK opens, you are now in early double digit years, and you are convinced that the special effects are much better, the characters are cool, and you want one of every collectible out there.

RETURN OF THE JEDI hits the theaters...you are now a teenager, and you cannot get your eyes off Princess Leia's breasts or Han Solo's butt. You fantasize about it, and send off to join every fan club for them on the planet, hanging posters, photos, and "teen"-type magazine spreads all over your walls and lockers at school.

; you have deep, personal relationships via computers with people you've never met in real life before

the phrase "going courting", to you, means fighting an unjust traffic ticket or playing tennis

you know, by heart, the words to any "Weird" Al Yankovic song

not that you'd do it personally, but body piercing captivates your attention

you remember the days when cocaine was just fine in powder form, thankyouverymuch

the Brady Bunch movie brought back cool memories

you remember the first time "Space: Above and Beyond" aired it was called "Battlestar Galactica"

songs by Debbie Gibson still haunt you to this day

3 words: "Atari" "IntelliVision" and "Coleco". Sound familiar?

you remember the days that hooking your computer into your tv wasn't an expensive option that required gadgets - it was the ONLY WAY to use your computer!

you remember the days when "safe sex" meant "my parents are gone for the weekend"

you remember "Friday Night Videos" before the days of MTV

you ever owned a pair of "Pop-Wheels" - that handy little combination of shoe and roller skate that lasted about a year on the open market

a predominant color in your childhood photos is "plaid" you see teenagers today wearing clothes that show up in those childhood photos, and they still look bad

you're pissed that you couldn't really participate in the 60's, pissed that you were a part of the 70's, think you wasted too much time doing stupid, meaningless things in the 80's, and still have no clue what the 90's are all about

while in high school, you and all your friends discussed elaborate plans to get together again at the end of the century and play "1999" by Prince over and over again

you remember when music that was labeled "alternative" really was

one of the top five questions you've always wanted answered was to Robert Smith of the Cure - "What WAS that head on the door thing anyway?"

you were shocked and horrified at the Challenger explosion (which you were probably watching in school at the time), and yet, when someone mentions the name "JFK", the first thing you think of is "Oliver Stone"

you, yes you, sat down and memorized the entire lyric sheet to "It's the end of the world as we know it"

you can't remember when the word "networking" didn't have a computer connotation to it as well

you took family trips BEFORE the invention of the mini-van. You rode in the back of the station wagon and you faced the cars behind you.

you knew all the words to Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire", but it really didn't hold any meaning for you until about the third verse

you've ever conversationally used the phrase "Jane, you ignorant slut"

you watched HR Puffenstuff as a child, but now that you're older, you really understand that it would have been much better had you known about drugs at the time

you've recently horrified yourself by using any one of the following phrases:
- "When I was younger"
- "When I was your age"
- "You know, back when..."
- "Because I SAID so, that's why"
- "What the HELL is this noise on the radio?"
- "Just can't (fill in the blank) like I used to"

you can't remember a time when "going out for coffee" DIDN'T involve 49,000 selections to choose from

Schoolhouse Rock played a HUGE part in how you actually learned the English language

Kids that work in restaurants and supermarkets are starting to piss you off by calling you "sir" or "ma'am"

you're starting to view getting carded to buy alcohol as a GOOD thing, and you're ready to marry the next person who cards you when you want to buy cigarettes.

flashback: it was your first chance to vote in a presidential election, and you were SO disappointed because, just for laughs, you really wanted to vote for Gary Hart

the first time you heard the candidates names, you were pumped because you thought MICHAEL Jackson was running for President, not this Jesse character.

you ever dressed to emulate a person you saw in either a Duran Duran, Madonna, or Cyndi Lauper video

at one point during your teenage years, you walked with a noticeable tilt to one side due to the number of plastic rings on that arm

"Celebration" by Kool & the Gang was one of the hot new songs when you first heard it at a school dance

the first time you ever kissed someone at a dance fell during "Crazy for You" by Madonna

there were at least three people in your school that voluntarily went by the names of "Skip" "Buffy" "Muffy" or "Dexter"

you ever owned one of those embarrassing crimping irons

you used to hold in your head the thought that all those gold chains on Mr. T actually looked kinda cool and the thought that Mr. T made millions seemed rational to you at the time

you remember with pain the sad day when the Green Machine hit the streets and made your old big wheel quite obsolete

the phrase "Where's the beef?" still doubles you over with laughter

you read the "Hot Video Games Player's Secrets" guide for Mortal Kombat just so you could find the hidden screen, and play Pong again for old time's sake

you were convinced for years that Batman was a mildly overweight man with a moderate beer belly who wore his underwear outside of his clothes and talked strangely

you're still occasionally suffering flashbacks from your 21st birthday party

you're starting to dread your 30th birthday, and have even begun going into denial about it's possibility

you've ever said "I'm a vegetarian" and immediately had someone call you a hypocrite by saying "Nice leather jacket you have there...and gee, is that a suede bag...those shoes leather, too?"

you're starting to believe that maybe 30 isn't so old after all, and it's those people over 40 you have to look out for

you freaked out when you found that you now fall into the "26 - 50" age category on most questionnaires

you have begun to lust after women (or men) that it would be socially inappropriate for you to date due to their age

your hair, at some point in time in the 80's, became something which can only be described by the phrase "I was experimenting"

you've ever shopped at a Banana Republic or Benetton, but not in the last five years, okay?

you can't remember a time when "hitting the outlet stores" didn't mean going to an electrical warehouse

you're starting to believe (now that it wouldn't affect YOU) that maybe having the kids go to school year-round wouldn't be such a bad idea after all

you're doing absolutely nothing with anything pertaining to your major degree

you won't walk into the place where you once knew every bartender on a first name basis because "there's too many kids there"

going to keg parties no longer involves hiding out in the woods when the cops show up

you want to go out dancing, you really, REALLY do, but your back hurts, sorry

you're starting to get that "why aren't you married yet" shpiel, not just from parents, but now from friends that are married

you've recently horrified yourself by groaning as you get out of bed, not because of a hangover, but because it genuinely just hurt to do so

you're finding that you just don't understand more than half the lingo used on MTV any more

(mostly guys on this one) sex is still as much fun as it used to be, and you're still really interested in it, but you just want to make sure there's nothing really good on cable that you'd be missing first

you ever wanted to be gagged with a spoon

U2 is too "popular" and "mainstream" for you now

you ever used the phrase "kiss mah grits" in conversation

When somone mentions two consecutive days of the week, the Happy Days theme is stuck in your head for hours on end

you remember trying to guess the episode of the Brady Bunch from the first scene.

you ever used the phrase "don't make me angry...you wouldn't LIKE me when I'm angry" when trying to frighten someone off.

you spent endless nights dreaming about being the Bionic Woman or Wonder Woman or the Six Million Dollar Man

you had ringside seats for Luke and Laura's wedding (on General Hospital)

you remember "Hey, let's be careful out there"

you're parents wanted you to attend medical school, but you decided it was pointless since Quincy got all the babes, anyway.

you know who shot J.R.

this rings a bell: "and my name, is Charlie. They work for me."

You owned a Jordache anything, or you remember when Jordache jeans were cool.

You remember when Madonna was just hitting the scene.

The Brady Bunch movie brought back cool memories.

"The Reflex" was a cool song.

You remember the original version of Windows: Macintosh.

You thought "Weird Science" was a masterpiece.

You remember any or all of the following: Echo & the Bunnymen, Cutting Crew, Scritti Politti, or Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark.

Chevy Chase was really funny in those vacation movies.

You actually know who Rick Springfield is

You remember when film critics raved that no movie could ever possibly get better special effects than those in the movie TRON.

You jammed to the Miami Vice theme and thought Jan Hammer was cool.

For the girl crazy bunch: Your first sexual dream occurred to thoughts of Jeannie, Marsha Brady, Samantha from Bewitched or, for those hardcore comic fans out there, Daphne from Scooby Doo, Josie or any one of her Pussycats.

And for the boy crazy bunch: You thought Sean Cassidy was "dreamy", lusted after "Ted, your ship's photographer" on the Love Boat and Chachi, or, to keep it fair to the comically interested, thought Fred was just a hunk on Scooby Doo.

Guys: You remember when a guy piercing his ear was radical to the max, but did it anyhow.

You've ever shopped at a Banana Republic or Benetton, but not in the last five years, okay?

You actually remember Benetton.

You're starting to believe (now that it wouldn't affect YOU) that maybe having the kids go to school year-round wouldn't be such a bad idea after all.

You remember when there was only "G, PG and R", none of this PG-13 crap.

You learned to swim about the same time Jaws came out and still carry the emotional scars to this day.

Hip-Hop and The Elderly

2005-09-26T18:38:00.000-04:00

This weekend, Future Mama and I spent a lot of time hanging out in downtown Asheville, The Greek Festival, and watching the Chimney Swifts bed down for the night at The Grove Arcade.

At various times this weekend I observed something strange. Hopefully, my blog friends can help me understand this strange phenomenon!

Why do young, black guys who listen to hip-hop so loud that their trunk lids reverberate and old white people (60-80 year olds) who enjoy listening to NPR both enjoy driving the same types of cars?

Example:

Chrysler 300 , Cadillacs, Buicks, etc.

Will someone please try and explain this one for me?

Quote 4 Edgy Mama

2005-09-20T21:02:00.000-04:00

My friend, Edgy Mama, has a collection of some of her favorite quotations. I thought this would be a great addition.

Last night, I attended a candidate forum for the City of Asheville mayor-hopefuls. The following question was asked.

Moderator: "Who is your major contributor?"

Candidate Bill Branyon ,after deep thought, pulled the microphone closer to him, leaned forward into the microphone with his right index finger pressed firmly against his forehead as if contemplating; and replied, "Uhhhh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ME!"

Then, after all the other candidates had replied with more intelligible answers, Branyon used his 30 sec. rebuttal and advised all members of the audience, "It only costs $100 to run for mayor and they give ya a bunch of money to use for advertising, plus you get to know all the candidates real well. I encourage all ya'll to give this a try at least once in your life!"

This guy was great! Throughout the forum he had me laughing so hard that I was in tears. His response to one question was "I don't know anything about that, but once I'm mayor and ya'll are paying me for it, I'll learn it! I'm a quick study!" At one point he even said that Asheville was much like the Greenwich Village.

He sat between Terry Bellamy and Joe Dunn. While Terry tried to remain all professional (she would roll her eyes at him every now and then), everytime he said something Dr. Dunn would laugh and pat him on the back. Branyon smiled real big and said, "Dr. Dunn used to be my Dentist. He's real gentle. See I don't have any cavities. He'd make a good mayor."

What's A 710?

2005-09-19T03:29:00.000-04:00

Borrowed from a friend:

A few days ago I was having some work done at the local Ford Dealership. A blonde came in and asked for a seven-hundred-ten.

We all looked at each other and another customer asked, "What is a seven-hundred-ten?"

She replied, "You know, the little piece in the middle of the engine, I have lost it and need a new one." She said that she did not know what it was but this piece had always been there.

He gave her a piece of paper and a pen and asked her to draw what the piece looked like. She drew a circle and in the middle of it wrote 710. He then took her over to another car, which had its hood up and asked, "Is there a 710 on this car?"

She pointed and said, "Of course, it's right there

Sept. 19: Talk Like A Pirate Day

2005-09-19T03:14:00.000-04:00

Don't have a clue what it means but here's the link if your interested!

Sept. 19 = International Talk Like A Pirate Day

Hopefully; my buddy Car can provide some positive feedback?

Future Daddy Job Description?

2005-09-19T02:15:00.000-04:00

JOB DESCRIPTION

share the work load
learn how to be an active father
keep Mama happy
read this post at Milk & Honey
if Mama's breastfeeding; then your job is

middle of the night; bring baby to Mama
caress and talk to baby and Mama during feeding
burp the baby
middle of the night; tuck baby back in bed

Looking 4 Poetry

2005-09-16T21:13:00.000-04:00

Then head on over to my friend's blog!

1000 Black Lines

Asheville Primary

2005-09-16T16:37:00.000-04:00

I hope all my Asheville/Buncombe County neighbors have registered because today was the deadline for voter registration.

Election Schedule
Officials to be elected

Here's a list of the Asheville candidates!

From Mountain Xpress and Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce

Candidates for mayor

The following four individuals (in alphabetical order) are running for mayor.

• Terry M. Bellamy: A member of City Council since 1999, Bellamy still has two years remaining in her second term, but she's decided to run for mayor. If she wins, the new Council members will select who fills her seat. If she loses, she'll keep the seat. This is her second run for mayor, having missed the primary cut in 2001. Bellamy works as director of marketing and development for Mountain Housing Opportunities.
Official Website(under construction)
Q and A

• Bill Branyon: A local author, Branyon is making his first run for mayor. But he's no newcomer to the campaign trail, having made two unsuccessful runs for City Council. Branyon, a former reporter for Green Line (Xpress's predecessor publication), recently issued a press release describing his politics as progressive and quoting local literary icon Thomas Wolfe – an appropriate enough reference for a 2,700-word press release. In addition to having published three books, Branyon works at a local hotel.
Q and A

• Joe Dunn: A retired dentist, Dunn was first elected to Council in 2001, when he netted the highest number of votes in that race. With his Council term drawing to a close, the rumor mill has been spinning at top speed, with some speculating that he'd had enough of the local political scene. Dunn ended the speculation when he became the last candidate to file for the mayoral race.
Q and A

• Charles R. Worley: The incumbent mayor, Worley is seeking to hold onto his gavel. He was elected to the city's top post in 2001 in his third bid for the position. A lawyer by trade, he has also served three terms as a member of City Council, beginning in 1991.
Official Website

Candidates for City Council

The following 10 individuals (in alphabetical order) are running for City Council.

• Dwight A. Butner: An Asheville restaurant owner, Butner is making his first foray into electoral politics. An active member of the Asheville Downtown Association, Butner has served as a volunteer on the Council-appointed Downtown Social Issues Task Force, helping draft a number of plans to address issues such as panhandling, homelessness and graffiti.
Official Website
Q and A

• Robin Cape: This is the first time Cape has appeared on a ballot, but she has been elected to public office – having become the first person in Buncombe County to win an election as a write-in candidate. The north Asheville resident was elected to the Woodfin Water Board after helping to organize a grassroots movement opposing the board's plan to log the Woodfin watershed.
Official Website
Q and A

• Bryan Freeborn: Freeborn made his first run for Council in the last election, and although he lost the race, he remained active on a number of fronts. He was appointed by Council as a member of the Asheville Transit Commission and he's been a vocal advocate for issues such as traffic calming and minimizing the impact of the I-26 widening on West Asheville.
Official Website
Q and A

• Matthew Hebb: The first person to throw his hat in the ring for the Council race, Hebb's been a visible presence around town ever since – even parading around Bele Chere with a cadre of sign-carrying supporters. Hebb works in the food-service industry, and this is his first run for public office.
Official Website
Q and A

• Jan Howard: A veteran of the 2001 Council race, Howard is back for run number two. Howard serves as a Guardian ad Litem (a court-appointed advocate for children). A former vice president of the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods, she's been been an active member of the Kennilworth Neighborhood Association.
Q and A

• Holly Jones: Jones is completing her first term on Council, and her candidacy implies she's ready for more. By day, she serves as the executive director of the YWCA.
Official Website
Q and A

• Carl Mumpower: Council's current vice mayor, Mumpower is finishing his first term in elected office. In the past, the practicing psychologist served as a member of the Asheville Civic Center Commission.
Official Website
Q and A

• Chris Pelly: A local real-estate professional, Pelly made his first run for office in the last Council race and survived the primary. In the general election, however, he wasn't able to squeak out a win. His strong fourth-place showing (the runner-up in a race for three seats) left many of his supporters looking to 2005. Pelly currently serves as the president of the Coalition of Asheville Neighborhoods.
Q and A

• Selina D. Sullivan: Newcomer Sullivan is entering the political fray for the first time. She works as a public relations/community development director for a local radio station and has served on the Asheville Planning and Zoning Commission.
Official Website
Q and A

• Keith Thomson: A systems engineer, Thomson has been no stranger to the Council chamber, frequently attending meetings and voicing his opinion on a wide range of issues. Recently, he sought but did not obtain an appointment to the Asheville City School Board. He has also served as a member of Citizens for Safe Drinking Water and Air.
Official Website
Q and A

Become an active member in our community! Don't just voice your opinion by blogging; get out and vote!

Week 15

2005-09-15T19:39:00.000-04:00

How's The Baby?

4 inches long
about 2.5 ounces
inhales/exhales amniotic fluid (develops air sacs in the lungs)
legs longer than arms
can move all joints and limbs
can sense light (although eyelids are fused shut)
taste buds are forming
during ultrasound maybe able to distinguish gender

How's Mama?

Future Mama is doing great
still craves Ben & Jerry's and Buffalo Wings
however; she's maintained a total weight gain of only 4 pounds
morning sickness gone!!!
Future Daddy getting tired because Future Mama's libido is very high now! Future Mama says these late night romps will help get me get prepared for when the little one will wake me up in the middle of the night! LOL

What's A Tarheel?

2005-09-13T17:57:00.000-04:00

As per Official State Symbols of North Carolina

In 1629, King Charles I of England "erected into a province," all the land from Albemarle Sound on the north to the St. John's River on the south, which he directed should be called Carolina. The word Carolina is from the word Carolus, the Latin form of Charles.

When Carolina was divided in 1710, the southern part was called South Carolina and the northern, or older settlement, North Carolina. From this came the nickname the "Old North State." Historians have recorded that the principal products during the early history of North Carolina were "tar, pitch, and turpentine." It was during one of the fiercest battles of the War Between the States, so the story goes, that the column supporting the North Carolina troops was driven from the field. After the battle the North Carolinians, who had successfully fought it out alone, were greeted from the passing derelict regiment with the question: "Any more tar down in the Old North State, boys?" Quick as a flash came the answer: "No, not a bit, old Jeff's bought it all up." "Is that so; what is he going to do with it?" was asked. "He's going to put on you-un's heels to make you stick better in the next fight." Creecy relates that General Lee, upon hearing of the incident, said: "God bless the Tar Heel boys," and from that they took the name (Adapted from Grandfather Tales of North Carolina by R.B. Creecy and Histories of North Carolina Regiments, Vol. III, by Walter Clark).

You Know You're A Tarheel When.........

2005-09-11T15:47:00.000-04:00

You've gotten used to the smell of cow manure on a car trip to Raleigh.

Saying "y'all" isn't just a cute expression; it actually means something.

There are big labrador retrievers in the back of every truck.

You give directions using KFC and Waffle House as landmarks.

You still see Dale Earnhart tributes on cars.

You can't imagine life without Bojangles' sweet tea

Your annual church fundraiser always deals with bbq and potato salad

You have a sunburn from May to October

Your 'heavy winter clothing' consists of some turtleneck sweaters, a fuzzy jacket, and your daddy's boots

Your family has fried chicken once a week

You can tell the difference between cotton fields and tobacco fields while driving

One of your neighbors has a confederate flag hanging on their front porch

Those "damn yankees" are taking over your school/church/workplace/neighborhood...

You've been "properly raised", and yankees love it when they hear you say "ma'am" and "sir"

You get your carbs from biscuits, rolls, pancakes, and grits

You know the difference between a "redneck" and a "hick".

You own at least one surf shop or seafood restaurant shirts.

No matter what those people in ohio say, we are still "first in flight"

The Coca-Cola 600 is as big as the Super Bowl

You prefer Chick-fil-a to KFC

You know pastry is a chicken stew, not a dessert item.

Every time you visit someone you're offered something to eat and a glass of tea.

Your granddaddy always wore overalls and your grandma always wore an apron.

In summer you have home-grown tomatoes with every meal.

When it rains and the creek rises, everyone gathers to see how high it rose.

You know that "chunk" the ball means to throw it.

You've had a burger "all the way" - chili and slaw on it.

You can recognize a copperhead and your heart drops when you see one.

You have at least one relative that raises collards.

Your folks have taken trips to the mountains to look at leaves.

Your school classes were cancelled because of a hurricane.

You know Krispy Kreme makes the best doughnut.

You have an opinion about UNC. You went there and loved it, or you hate everyone who did.

You know the best BBQ is found in Lexington

You would rather eat at Bojangles's than McDonald's

You have actually uttered the phrase "It's too hot to go to the pool"

You faithfully drink Pepsi or Mt. Dew everyday of your life.

You have your own secret bbq sauce.

You or your neighbors have more hunting dogs than you have family members.

You actually get these jokes and pass them on to other friends from North Carolina.

Al Gore Steps It Up

2005-09-09T17:36:00.000-04:00

While I am a right-wing Christian Conservative Republican, I do believe in "giving props, when props are due!" Something else I have observed that the "lefters" disagree with. I can't imagine them ever giving a Republican props!

However; Former Vice President Al Gore has gone above and beyond!

Al Gore helped airlift some 270 Katrina evacuees on two private charters from New Orleans, acting at the urging of a doctor who saved the life of the former vice president's son.

Gore criticized the Bush administration's slow response to Katrina in a speech Friday in San Francisco, but refused to be interviewed about the mercy missions he financed and flew on Sept. 3 and 4.

"Click Here For The Story"

Protect Gov. Blanco's Image

2005-09-09T16:53:00.000-04:00

On Sept. 4, 2005, under a post entitled, "Louisiana Government At Fault," I examined the responsibilities of the governor and the mayor based on the State of Louisiana's Disaster Plan. Today's New York Times reported on the relationship between federal, state, and local government's reaction to a disaster.

The Insurrection Act

To seize control of the mission, Mr. Bush would have had to invoke the Insurrection Act, which allows the president in times of unrest to command active-duty forces into the states to perform law enforcement duties. But decision makers in Washington felt certain that Ms. Blanco would have resisted surrendering control, as Bush administration officials believe would have been required to deploy active-duty combat forces before law and order had been re-established.

While combat troops can conduct relief missions without the legal authority of the Insurrection Act, Pentagon and military officials say that no active-duty forces could have been sent into the chaos of New Orleans on Wednesday or Thursday without confronting law-and-order challenges.

Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales urged Justice Department lawyers to interpret the federal law creatively to help local authorities, those officials said. For example, federal prosecutors prepared to expand their enforcement of some criminal statutes like anti-carjacking laws that can be prosecuted by either state or federal authorities.

On the issue of whether the military could be deployed without the invitation of state officials, the Office of Legal Counsel, the unit within the Justice Department that provides legal advice to federal agencies, concluded that the federal government had authority to move in even over the objection of local officials.

"This act was last invoked in 1992 for the Los Angeles riots, but at the request of Gov. Pete Wilson of California, and has not been invoked over a governor's objections since the civil rights era - and before that, to the time of the Civil War, administration officials said. Bush administration, Pentagon and senior military officials warned that such an extreme measure would have serious legal and political implications."

Bush Administration Attempted to Protect Blanco's Image

For reasons of practicality and politics, officials at the Justice Department and the Pentagon, and then at the White House, decided not to urge Mr. Bush to take command of the effort. Instead, the Washington officials decided to rely on the growing number of National Guard personnel flowing into Louisiana, who were under Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco's control.

But just as important to the administration were worries about the message that would have been sent by a president ousting a Southern governor of another party from command of her National Guard, according to administration, Pentagon and Justice Department officials.

"Can you imagine how it would have been perceived if a president of the United States of one party had pre-emptively taken from the female governor of another party the command and control of her forces, unless the security situation made it completely clear that she was unable to effectively execute her command authority and that lawlessness was the inevitable result?" asked one senior administration official, who spoke anonymously because the talks were confidential.

Blanco Admits She Was Lost

"I need everything you have got," Ms. Blanco said she told Mr. Bush last Monday, after the storm hit.

In an interview, she acknowledged that she did not specify what sorts of soldiers. "Nobody told me that I had to request that," Ms. Blanco said. "I thought that I had requested everything they had. We were living in a war zone by then."

Blanco Wanted to Stay In Control

Officials in Louisiana agree that the governor would not have given up control over National Guard troops in her state as would have been required to send large numbers of active-duty soldiers into the area. But they also say they were desperate and would have welcomed assistance by active-duty soldiers.

In a separate discussion last weekend, the governor also rejected a more modest proposal for a hybrid command structure in which both the Guard and active-duty troops would be under the command of an active-duty, three-star general - but only after he had been sworn into the Louisiana National Guard.

Lt. Gen. James T. Conway, director of operations for the military's Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the Pentagon in August streamlined a rigid, decades-old system of deployment orders to allow the military's Northern Command to dispatch liaisons to work with local officials before an approaching hurricane.

Blanco Blamed the War on Terror

Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld has said deployment of National Guard soldiers to Iraq, including a brigade from Louisiana, did not affect the relief mission, but Ms. Blanco disagreed.

"Over the last year, we have had about 5,000 out, at one time," she said. "They are on active duty, serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. That certainly is a factor."

Thanks, Terminator!

2005-09-08T18:35:00.000-04:00

SACRAMENTO, California (AP) -- Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced Wednesday he will veto a bill that would have made California the first state to legalize same-sex marriage through its elected lawmakers. (continued)

Democrats Rally

2005-09-08T18:11:00.000-04:00

Democratic leaders are rallying to protect their Louisiana buddies (namely, Landrieu and Blanco)!

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democratic leaders pushing for an independent commission to investigate the government's response to Hurricane Katrina spurned on Thursday a plan by majority Republicans for a joint congressional inquiry. (continued)

U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu (D-LA) (L) looks on as Democratic Minority Leader, Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) (R) speaks to the press September 8, 2005 at the Capitol Building in Washington. Democrats in Congress are questioning the Bush administration planned probe of the failings in the response to Hurricane Katrina. Photo by Jason Reed/Reuters

Observe the fear and confusion on poor Ole Mary's face!

She's probably thinking, "Yeah, you tell 'em Harry! Take that, you mean Republicans! I've got my own Dirty Harry and y'all caint touch me!"

Where Did Levee Funding Go?

2005-09-08T17:25:00.000-04:00

Many people have complained about the Federal Gov't not doing everything it could to increase the levee/pump protection of New Orleans. But let's look at facts instead of speculation.

"Before Hurricane Katrina breached a levee on the New Orleans Industrial Canal, the Army Corps of Engineers had already launched a $748 million construction project at that very location. But the project had nothing to do with flood control. The Corps was building a huge new lock for the canal, an effort to accommodate steadily increasing barge traffic.

Except that barge traffic on the canal has been steadily decreasing."

1. Where's the $1.9 Billion?

"Much of that Louisiana money was spent to try to keep low-lying New Orleans dry. But hundreds of millions of dollars have gone to unrelated water projects demanded by the state's congressional delegation and approved by the Corps, often after economic analyses that turned out to be inaccurate. Despite a series of independent investigations criticizing Army Corps construction projects as wasteful pork-barrel spending, Louisiana's representatives have kept bringing home the bacon."

2. Sen. Mary Landrieu knows and she's trying to bring home more bacon!

"For example, after a $194 million deepening project for the Port of Iberia flunked a Corps cost-benefit analysis, Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) tucked language into an emergency Iraq spending bill ordering the agency to redo its calculations."

3. NOLA residents know about pork barrels!

"Pam Dashiell, president of the Holy Cross Neighborhood Association, remembers holding a protest against the lock four years ago -- right where the levee broke Aug. 30. Now she's holed up with her family in a St. Louis hotel, and her neighborhood is underwater. "Our politicians never cared half as much about protecting us as they cared about pork," Dashiell said."

4. Congressional Looting

Yesterday, congressional defenders of the Corps said they hoped the fallout from Hurricane Katrina would pave the way for billions of dollars of additional spending on water projects. Steve Ellis, a Corps critic with Taxpayers for Common Sense, called their push "the legislative equivalent of looting."

5. Meanwhile, Louisiana Democrats Move to CYA Mode

"We've been hollering about funding for years, but everyone would say: There goes Louisiana again, asking for more money," said former Democratic senator John Breaux. "We've had some powerful people in powerful places, but we never got what we needed."

In fact, more than any other federal agency, the Corps is controlled by Congress; its $4.7 billion civil works budget consists almost entirely of "earmarks" inserted by individual legislators. The Corps must determine that the economic benefits of its projects exceed the costs, but marginal projects such as the Port of Iberia deepening -- which squeaked by with a 1.03 benefit-cost ratio -- are as eligible for funding as the New Orleans levees.

"We thought all the projects were important -- not just levees," Breaux said. "Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but navigation projects were critical to our economic survival."

Did Louisiana Politics Get In The Way?

2005-09-08T16:34:00.000-04:00

When questioning the aftermath of Katrina's destruction of New Orleans and wondering why the local and state gov't did not react to save lives prior to Katrina's landfall, let's look back a few years and get some political background under our belts.

1. In 2003, NOLA Mayor Ray Nagin did not support Gov. Kathleen Blanco's gubernatorial campaign.

In a bold and potentially risky move, New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin crossed party lines Monday to endorse Republican Bobby Jindal, who is locked in a tight governor's race with Lt. Gov. Kathleen Blanco, the Democratic standard bearer in the Nov. 15 runoff.

Nagin's announcement marks a historic break with tradition for African-American leaders of the state's largest city and a major advance in Jindal's efforts to reach beyond his conservative base. Democratic candidates for governor in the past have regarded as automatic the backing of the mayor of New Orleans, where nearly seven of 10 voters are registered Democrats. With that history in mind, Nagin, a lifelong Democrat, called his decision "an extremely tough choice" that came only after soul-searching and extensive research.

"We're at a time in our history right now where we can move our state forward as never seen before or we can continue to languish in mediocrity and complacency," Nagin said, flanked by Jindal and his supporters who gathered outside a park across from the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. "I choose to move forward and help write this history, not just be part of it."

2. Nagin supported a "problem-solver"

Nagin praised Jindal as an issues-oriented "problem-solver," borrowing language from Jindal's campaign ads.

"Quite frankly, whenever I presented Bobby Jindal with a challenge or a question he replied with optimistic opportunity, not pessimistic posturing," Nagin said, a pointed reference to Blanco's responses. He offered only faint praise for the Democratic candidate, calling her "a very nice lady" who has a "pretty good record of doing things" as lieutenant governor.

But he said it was Jindal's specific plans for economic development, health care and education that sold him. "Bobby and I just got to a little . . . you know, deeper level of detail and specificity," Nagin said.

3. Blanco's backers threatened Nagin and the future of New Orleans!

In recent days, Nagin said he faced considerable pressure from the state Democratic power structure to go with Blanco, citing U.S. Sens. John Breaux and Mary Landrieu in particular.

Without naming names, Nagin said Blanco supporters attached words like "risk" and "consequences" and "repercussions" to the prospect of his backing Jindal.

"They talked about this not being in the best interests of the city of New Orleans and that they would let people know that," Nagin said.

Using what he described as the "hip hop vernacular" favored by his teenage sons, Nagin hinted that Blanco's backers issued threats, indicating that "if we get in we're going to basically ice you out."

Nagin dismissed those comments as "heat of the battle" rhetoric.

"I understand if Ms. Blanco potentially gets in office that she's going to be upset," he said. "But at the end of the day, any smart governor is going to basically understand the importance of New Orleans and is going to put that aside and move forward."

Asked directly if anyone threatened to politically isolate him or the city, he said, "You know, I'm just watching my back. I'm just watching my back. Where's my security?" he said, laughing.

4. The highwater came! Now, what will Nagin do?

Nagin said many of his supporters displeased with his decision felt he should "stay Democratic come heck or high water." To them, he said he has no intention of switching to the Republican Party. "We need to look beyond partisan politics and make decisions that bring the best talent to the table," he said.

As reported by the Times-Picayune, 11/04/03

Louisiana Officials Claw It Out

2005-09-08T01:00:00.000-04:00

I'm starting to believe that the FOX News Channel has appointed a researcher to visit my blog and keep the producer of the O'Reilly Factor informed of the truth! When watching the FOX News Channel remember, you heard it hear first!

Bill O'Reilly's Talking Points: "What Really Happened in the Wake of Hurricane Katrina?"

ABC News reports: "Who's to Blame for Delayed Response to Katrina?"

News Max.com reports: "Gov. Blanco, Mayor Nagin at Each Others Throats"

Observe the dates they posted their "news"!

Now, take a look to your right and check out Future Daddy's previous posts about the issue (esp. the dates I posted them).

They're a little slow, but at least they're finally getting the story right!

Week 14

2005-09-05T20:49:00.000-04:00

How's the Baby?

about 3.5 inches long
weighs about 1.5 ounces
arms almost proportional to rest of body
ultra-fine hair (lanugo) covering body
liver secreting bile
spleen producing red blood cells
squints, frowns, can grasp, and able to suck thumb

How's Mama?

morning sickness begin to fade; along with fatigue
uterus now above the pelvic bone and she will "start to show"
with the tummy growth, Mama needs some new clothes surprise her with a few gifts from the maternity clothing store

Mayor Nagin Clueless

2005-09-04T23:04:00.000-04:00

Prior to Katrina's landfall, Nagin did not have a clue what he could do as a mayor!

"Nagin said late Saturday that he's having his legal staff look into whether he can order a mandatory evacuation of the city, a step he's been hesitant to do because of potential liability on the part of the city for closing hotels and other businesses."

As reported by The Times-Picayune on Aug. 28, 2005.

Therefore, Nagin was not aware of the details of the Louisiana Disaster Plan and two days before Katrina's landfall was scrambling around trying to figure out what authority he had during an emergency.

Apparently they just wanted the title

2005-09-04T22:37:00.000-04:00

It appears that Gov. Blanco and Mayor Nagin were simply looking to pick up a title and buff their resumes when they ran for office. Apparently they did not know the jobs actually came with a large amount of responsiblity.

Reported in The St. Petersburg Times.

"Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco doesn't want the buck to stop in her office, either. "We don't get into the blame game," Blanco said. "We just work with what we got." As the state's chief executive, she could have had fleets of buses ready to evacuate a clearly vulnerable population, temporary shelters identified outside the city and emergency supplies at the ready. So there's a good reason Blanco doesn't want to assign blame; she would be pointing at herself."

"No one is in charge at the local level either, where you expect responsiveness and accountability. New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin haplessly issued a "desperate SOS," then blamed federal officials who "don't have a clue what's going on down here." How about you, Mr. Mayor? As the top official of a city that is shaped like a bathtub surrounded by water, Nagin had to know what to expect. Yet when too many people showed up at the Superdome, they were turned away. At the city's convention center, 20,000 people or more are desperate for food, water and medical care. The dead lie on the ground or are propped up in wheelchairs, yet city vehicles pass by without even slowing."

Gov. Admits Defeat

2005-09-04T22:30:00.000-04:00

Almost a week after Katrina's landfall, Gov. Blanco realizes she is not qualified to lead a state.

As reported by The Washington Post.

In Baton Rouge, Blanco acknowledged Saturday: "We did not have enough resources here to do it all. . . . The magnitude is overwhelming."

Was she not aware of a governor's job description?

Louisiana's Lack of Planning

2005-09-04T22:23:00.000-04:00

Additional reports per Washington Post

"For years, said another senior FEMA official, he had sat at meetings where plans were discussed to send evacuees to the Superdome. "We used to stare at each other and say, 'This is the plan? Are you really using the Superdome?' People used to say, what if there is water around it? They didn't have an alternative," he recalled.

In the run-up to the current crisis, Allbaugh said he knew "for a fact" that officials at FEMA and other federal agencies had requested that New Orleans issue a mandatory evacuation order earlier than Sunday morning."

"Other federal and state officials pointed to Louisiana's failure to measure up to national disaster response standards, noting that the federal plan advises state and local emergency managers not to expect federal aid for 72 to 96 hours, and base their own preparedness efforts on the need to be self-sufficient for at least that period. "Fundamentally the first breakdown occurred at the local level," said one state official who works with FEMA. "Did the city have the situational awareness of what was going on within its borders? The answer was no."

Louisiana Gov. in CYA mode

2005-09-04T21:54:00.000-04:00

Previously, I posted a commentary stating why the State of Louisiana should be held responsible for the deaths.

As per the Washington Post:

"Behind the scenes, a power struggle emerged, as federal officials tried to wrest authority from Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco (D). Shortly before midnight Friday, the Bush administration sent her a proposed legal memorandum asking her to request a federal takeover of the evacuation of New Orleans, a source within the state's emergency operations center said Saturday."

Once again, as I haved stated before, the federal government can not take over a state; therefore, the blame does not go beyond the state!

"The administration sought unified control over all local police and state National Guard units reporting to the governor. Louisiana officials rejected the request after talks throughout the night, concerned that such a move would be comparable to a federal declaration of martial law. Some officials in the state suspected a political motive behind the request. "Quite frankly, if they'd been able to pull off taking it away from the locals, they then could have blamed everything on the locals," said the source, who does not have the authority to speak publicly."

"Louisiana did not reach out to a multi-state mutual aid compact for assistance until Wednesday, three state and federal officials said. As of Saturday, Blanco still had not declared a state of emergency, the senior Bush official said."

"Blanco made two moves Saturday that protected her independence from the federal government: She created a philanthropic fund for the state's victims and hired James Lee Witt, Federal Emergency Management Agency director in the Clinton administration, to advise her on the relief effort."

Constitutional constraints restrict the President's power of moving in and taking over a state. As per my previous post, in accordance with the Louisiana Disaster Plan, it is the Governor's job to request assistance.

The 2nd Amendment

2005-09-04T21:49:00.000-04:00

From another viewpoint, the recent events in New Orleans provide plenty of firewood for "the right to bear arms" voices! After Katrina's initial landfall, we now have proof of the government's inability to protect us.

Bush Not Taking Brunt of Criticism

2005-09-04T21:46:00.000-04:00

Majority of Americans understanding the SOP's of State Government and do not blame Bush. See poll.

Louisiana Government At Fault

2005-09-04T01:02:00.000-04:00

In response to my recent posting many disagree with my placing the blame on the State of Louisiana. Many feel the Federal Government is to blame. My aren’t we quick to fuss about “Big Brother” watching over us until “we” feel that we want them to barge in and take over.

However, let’s take a look at the State of Louisiana’s Disaster Plan.

State of Louisiana
Emergency Operations Plan
Supplement 1C: Louisiana Shelter Operations Plan
Revised July 2000

IV. Organizational and Assignment of Responsibilities (pg. 5)

A. Governor:

3. Authorize and direct the use of State Government personnel and other
resources to deal with the emergency

5. Request Federal/State Government assistance as needed.

This clearly shows, it was Governor Blanco’s responsibility to request Federal assistance. Maybe she was not aware of that since she became governor after the document was published. Maybe she thought she didn’t need to read or revise it.

B. Planning Considerations: (pg.11)

1. Individual Evacuee
Most evacuees are expected to relocate using their personal vehicles.
Local governments of the two Hurricane Task Forces (Southeast and
Southwest) are expected to assist in evacuating those residents who do
not own vehicles. Evacuating parishes plan to transport these people
to reception areas in Sector C of the Shelter Area parishes using school
and municipal buses, and special purpose vehicles.

New Orleans has many school and municipal buses. Maybe Mayor Nagin was not aware it was his responsibility to use these vehicles to evacuate those who do not own vehicles. Where were the buses?

Oh yeah, there they are! Imagine they could have been saved from this watery grave by transporting people out of New Orleans last weekend.

IV. Mass Care (pg. 12)

A. To the extent possible, hurricane evacuation shelters should be:

1. Of wind-resistant construction;

2. Situated outside of flood plains or areas where access roads could be inundated by flooding;

I. Level I - Refuge of Last Resort (ANNEX M)

I. Level 1

3. Physical features required:
Located outside of the flood zone or ability to locate on floors
elevated above flood potential area and hurricane wind resistant
structure.

Remember, the Super Dome was a Refuge of Last Resort; remember the floodwater around it? Remember the top blowing off?

Part II: Situation and Assumptions (Special Needs Plan)

8. In an emergency, Parish and State government authorities will call for the evacuation of SN (special needs) patients well before calling for mandatory evacuation of the general
population.

So why do we hear doctors and nurses begging for people to be evacuated from the area hospitals? Aren’t premature babies considered special needs? What about the other patients?

So while we are quick to past judgment to FEMA, Homeland Security, and Bush; perhaps it is best that we understand the full complexities of government first.

If you would like to view the document yourself, click here. Louisiana Disaster Plan

The Truth About New Orleans

2005-09-03T17:58:00.000-04:00

I am a former resident and law enforcement officer of New Orleans (1998-2004). I have spent the last week flipping back and forth between FOX and CNN. While most of America is shocked by what has happened. I, on the other hand, am not!

My employment in law enforcement during my years as a NOLA resident taught me a lot! And ultimately led to my leaving! While most people are shocked at the lack of leadership, I am not! While most people are shocked at anarchy, I am not!

WHO'S TO BLAME!

As for the leadership, most of the blame goes to Gov. Blanco! I remember her lack of understanding of policies and planning during the gubernatorial debates. She often appeared confused and rattled when asked a question. Many times she would simply answer a question by stating, "I agree with him (Bobby Jindal)." or "I think we should do what he (Bobby Jindal) said." Of course Jindal lost because of his political party and youth. While many people want to lay the blame at the President, we must understand that the federal government can not take charge of a situation until the Governor of that state provides authorization.

THEY KNEW IT WOULD HAPPEN!

The total destruction that we see in New Orleans was expected. Several years ago, an Times-Picayune reporter did about a five-part series with LSU clearing reporting what would happen to NOLA during a CAT 5 hurricane. The report included a full-color graphic showing how the levee holding back the lake would break. This graphic also clearly showed what parts of the city would be flooded and by how much water.

On Saturday (8/27/05), I told my wife that Katrina would hit the heated waters of the gulf and become a major hurricane and slam into NOLA. I then went to the Times-Picayune website, found the report in the archives and showed her what would happen.

Several years ago, when the article was first published, I downloaded the graphic as a PDF file on my laptop, brought it to work, and asked our leadership, "What are we going to do when this happens?" The response has allows been, "Well, we hope that never happens." (click here for report)

BRING IN RUDY!

Everyone wants to bring in Rudy! However, this is an entirely different disaster. The 9/11 terror attack did not effect the entire city of New York in the same manner as Katrina. The actual disaster was in a "section" of the city. The city of New York was not under water. The complete infastructure of the city was not destroyed! Rudy would not have made the relief efforts any better.

The blame does not go beyond the leaders of Louisiana!

Father's Role During Labor

2005-09-01T21:55:00.000-04:00

Daddy-Up Time!

Get ready for the special day.

Read "Fathers and Partners Role During Labor," written by a male labor and delivery nurse!

Great resource!

Week 13

2005-08-31T18:29:00.000-04:00

How's the Baby?

about 3 inches long
weighs about an ounce
fully formed
head 1/3 size of body
fingerprints in place
kidneys and urinary tract are functional
urinates in amniotic fluid

How's Mama?

last week of 1st trimester
risk of miscarriage virtually gone
morning sickness subsides
breasts start making colostrum
sex drive increases :-)
may experience heartburn (try eating papaya)
energy returns

Future Daddy Fears

2005-08-31T18:17:00.000-04:00

Security fears
Performance fears
Paternity fears
Mortality fears
Spouse/baby's Health
Relationship fears
Ob-Gyn unknowns

Babycenter.com has an awesome article that takes a look at what fears a Dad 2 Be might face.

Thirtheenth Week

2005-08-31T18:14:00.000-04:00

Mama is in the 13th week now and her little tummy is starting to grow!

Finally big enough to begin maternity shopping!

Bought some black dress slacks for work and overalls for recreation!

Asthma & Pregnancy

2005-08-31T18:03:00.000-04:00

Today, we had a visit with an asthma specialist. During the first prenatal visit, we advised that the "Mom 2 Be" has a history of asthma. Our midwife then arranged a visit with an asthma specialist. The visit went well and we learned a lot about the effects of asthma during a pregnancy.

The doctor advised that it was very important to develop an asthma action plan and to monitor and treat asthma on a daily basis. If the mother is experiencing restricted airflow it also affects the baby. This can result in lower birth weight, brain development, even fetal death!

The good news is that asthma medication is available that will not harm the baby!

So guys watch the future mom closely and keep an eye out for allergens and asthma

Doctor or Midwife?

2005-08-29T18:33:00.000-04:00

Ladies, here's a warning! We don't have a clue about this stuff. About all we know is that a women gets pregnant and 9 months later we make a frantic dash to the hospital, to pace up and down the waiting room wondering if we will be passing out "It's a Boy" or "It's a Girl" cigars.

But seriously guys, this is an important decision and she will want your thoughts on the matter. After researching the topic there are **3 choices that I would recommend.**

Obstetrician (OB-GYN)
Family Practitioner (FP)
Certified Nurse-midwife (CNM)

So what's the difference! Well there are several factors that should help steer you when making your final decision. Many women already have an OB-GYN specialist that they visit regularly for annual check-ups, pap smears, etc. These specialist are already familiar with her and already have a medical history established about her. So, in many cases this decision would be a "no-brainer."

The majority of HMO's, health care policies, etc. require that you have a Primary Care Physician or Family Practitioner. Much like the ob-gyn this individual is already familiar with her medical history. However, unlike the ob-gyn, who has had additional post-graduate training in women's reproductive and general health only, the FP has been trained in pediatrics as well. Therefore the FP will be able to deliver the baby as well as provide primary care after delivery and throughout childhood.

And finally, there is the Certified Nurse-Midwife. The CNM is a registered nurse who holds a Bachelor's degree and has completed a graduate-level (Master's degree) in midwifery, and is certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives. While an OB-GYN or FP will typically treat her pregnancy as a "medical" condition, the CNM will treat the pregnancy as a "natural, stage of life." CNM's typically restrict the number of patients they have each month in order to ensure a more direct, hand's on approach during labor and delivery. The result, is that she will have someone who will be by her side from first prenatal visit until the delivery.

Suggested Links:

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

American Academy of Family Physicians

American College of Nurse-Midwives

**DISCLAIMER: This does not represent a formal, expert review. I'm just a layperson sharing some of the insights I have discovered as a Dad 2 Be. As with all my post, I encourage you to use this as a launching pad to begin your own research! Do not go around quoting Future Daddy! I am not an authority in these matters! However, do use my site as something to help start your "brain-storming" as to what issues you should be researching!

First Prenatal Visit

2005-08-28T18:24:00.000-04:00

The first prenatal visit will be the longest. Go ahead and plan about a 3-4 hour block of your day for the event.

TIP: I recommend, if possible, to schedule all prenatal visits in the morning. This will allow you to share lunch together and discuss what happended at the exam.

1. Complete medical history of "Mom 2 Be" and "Dad 2 Be"

2. Complete physical exam

battery of tests via urine and blood
pap smear
breast exam
height and weight
blood pressure

Visit "All About Moms" for additional details.

How to Shoe A "Mom 2 Be"

2005-08-27T16:34:00.000-04:00

One of the things that will become a daily task for a "Future Dad" is the shoeing of the "Mom 2 Be." Here are some tips to help accomodate the job.

1. The "shoer" must first place the "shoee" in a comfortable sitting position. I prefer the couch.

2. The shoer must secure the shoes.

make sure the shoes match what the shoee is wearing
make sure the shoes are appropriate for what the shoee will be doing

3. Provide these options to the shoee. Do not assume that you know which one! A heterosexual male can not make an educated decision in this area. Also get her approval on the shoes!

Socks? (if yes; style and color)
Nylons? (if yes; style and color)

4. The shoer should then place comfy pillows behind the shoee to ensure the shoee is in a comfortable reclining position.

5. Gently place the shoee's feet on the coffee table with a pillow underneath the feet.

6. Instructions for socks (massaging the calf will help keep the shoee calm)

carefully place the sock over the foot of the shoee one foot at a time
ensure the sock's seam is level across the toes of the shoee
ensure the shoee's heel is properly placed in the heel of the sock

7. Instructions for nylons (massaging the calf will help keep the shoee calm)

to avoid snagging the nylons, trim your nails and smooth any rough spots on your hands with a pumice stone
carefully place the foot portion of the nylon over the foot of the shoee one foot at a time
ensure the toe seam is level across the toes of the shoee
ensure the shoee's heel is properly placed in the heel of the nylon
slowly extend the nylon up the leg ensuring they are not twisted
once the nylons are just below the knee assist the shoee into a standing position
continue to extend the nylons up until the shoee can assist you in pulling them over the hip
assist the shoee back to the couch

8. If it is a lace-up shoe; make sure the laces are loose enough.

9. Slowly slip the shoe over the foot of the shoee one foot at a time.

10. Once the shoe is properly placed, assist the shoee to her feet and ensure the shoes feel ok.

Additional note: If the shoee will be wearing an open toe shoe it will also be necessary to ensure the shoee's nail color matches what she is wearing. Tips for shoee foot and nail care will be published at a later date.

Your Involvement

2005-08-26T17:50:00.000-04:00

Ok guys, its time to "Daddy-Up"

1. Stay involved!

your job does not end at conception
your job began at conception

2. Talk it out!

give her time to explain her day
set aside the tough-guy image and air your feelings

3. Attend prenatal checkups!

don't just hold her hand in the delivery room
be there for every prenatal checkup
be an active member during the exam
ask questions
keep a list of questions for the next visit
provide her comfort during the exam

4. Act pregnant!

pretend you're the one carrying the baby
watch your diet
perform pregnancy exercises with her
don't smoke
avoid alcohol (join her in a sparkling water with lemon and mint)

5. Get educated!

read as many books and articles as you can
attend childbirth classes together
chat with your friends and colleagues who are Dads
subscribe to this website

6. Make contact with your baby!

by the end of the 6th month the baby can hear voices outside the womb
help your baby learn to recognize your voice
talk, read, or sing to the baby
share intimate times with your wife by feeling the baby move around

7. Shop together!

if possible, join her in the dressing room at the maternity store; its fun and people's reaction when you both exit is worth it
select crib, stroller, car seat, even diaper bag together

8. Visit the hospital!

tour the hospital's maternity ward
plan the shortest route from your home to the hospital
prepare the hospital bag and keep it stored in the trunk

These are just a few things off the top of my head. Use these as a launching pad to ignite ideas that will allow you to become involved with the pregnancy. Don't just tell her you love her; prove it by becoming involved!

March of Dimes

2005-08-25T22:14:00.000-04:00

Today's earlier post entitled, "Baby Fund?" was simply for laughter. I have always been revolted at the fact that someone would create such a website and I'm even more revolted at the thought of how many idiots actually donated.

This blog will now sponsor a link that will allow you to make a donation to the March of Dimes to help save babies!

Click here to view Future Daddy's "March of Dimes Virtual Band" today!

Direct all your family and friends to the above link as well!

Remember you can make a difference in the life of a baby!

Baby Fund?

2005-08-25T13:25:00.000-04:00

I remember about 2 years ago a girl was making headlines because she created a website to help her raise money for breast implants. In four months she raised $4,500! I would have provided a link to her site; however, it contains nudity.

I've made up mind! I'm signing up with PayPal and adding a link to allow the Future Daddy faithful to help support bringing a child into this world! LOL

Please provide suggestions where you think I should place the PayPal button to achieve maximum results!

Daddy-Up!

2005-08-25T01:44:00.000-04:00

OK, the earthquake excitment has died down! Back to the true mission of this blog!

When I lived in the Texas Panhandle, the locals had a term called, "Cowboy-Up." It was their way of telling another guy that it was time to take some responsibility and be a real man. If your friend told you to "Cowboy-Up" you knew you had screwed something up.

In our politically-correct world, it's time someone stepped to the plate and told fathers to "Daddy-Up!" A lot of bad media has been published about Bill Cosby in the last year because he had the nerve to tell fathers it was time to "Daddy-Up!"

"This is about little children ... and people not giving them better choices," he told Paula Zahn in an interview for CNN's "Paula Zahn Now." "Talking. Talking. Parenting. Correctly parenting. That's what it's about. And you can't blame other things. You got to -- you got to straighten up your house. Straighten up your apartment. Straighten up your child."

Cosby's comments apply to everybody not just the African-American community. Our society has became infested by a bunch of young punks whose fathers ran out and didn't fullfill their jobs of fatherhood.

Guys, it's time to step up to the plate and start policing ourselves! When you see a father not fullfilling his role remind him to "Daddy-Up!"

Fathering a child doesn't make you a man!
Raising that child into an adult who can make a contribution to society is what makes a man!

"I feel the earth move under my skin......."

2005-08-24T23:40:00.000-04:00

Its official it was an earthquake!

Click this link!

USGS Recent Earthquake Activity in the USA

Great History of North Carolina Earthquakes

Click this link!

USGS: Earthquake Hazards Program

Asheville Earthquake

2005-08-24T23:26:00.000-04:00

Tonight around 11:09 pm, we where watching the news and preparing to end our day when suddenly everything started shaking! It was truly a surprise to experience an earthquake in the Great Smokies. Stay tuned for further updates!

Camera in the Delivery Room?

2005-08-24T17:37:00.000-04:00

So, what are your thoughts about cameras (still or video) in the Delivery Room?

Personally, I think there's a time and place for everything. I feel that the Delivery Room is not the appropriate place for cameras. Wait until mom and baby have been freshened up and are relaxing comfortably in Recovery.

Guys, if you insist on filming the entire event, then she should also have the joy of filming your physical (hernia check and prostate exam)!

But, if it is something you both agree upon by all means do it!

Please post your opinions and comments!

Important Tips

2005-08-24T11:24:00.000-04:00

1. At least several times per day, tell the future mom she's hot.

2. Help avoid morning sickness, feed her a simple breakfast in bed.

3. Just because you can paint a house, furniture, car, etc. means nothing......wait till you try and paint her toes.

4. Learn her (before pregnant) size and go maternity shopping for her.

5. Surprise her with little gifts. Not stuff for the baby, she will get plenty of those at the baby shower. Make sure its something personal and just for her. Example: spa appointment.

6. Make sure she can see that prenatal appointments, parenting classes, etc. are on your calendar. These have priority over everything!

7. Buy a Prenatal Exercise DVD/VHS and do the routine with her at least 3 times a week. Besides, you're going to be a Daddy soon and you need to get in shape as well.

8. "You're now eating for two" is a lie. It is unhealthy for her and the baby if she gains a lot of weight. Help her by eating several small, healthy meals throughout the day. Besides, it will help you loose weight.

9. Do not make #8 a household rule! Learn what her cravings are and dutifully fetch.

10. Tell her, "No! You're not getting fat. It's called a baby. You're the sexiest mom-to-be!"

First Sonogram

2005-08-23T21:26:00.000-04:00

This blog will open the mind of an expectant father and explore the many thoughts and emotions that a first time father encounters when his wife is expecting. I know, I know......guys are supposed to be silent and tough. However, a baby can break the demeanor of any hard nose.

GUYS SHARE THIS BLOG WITH YOUR WOMAN
WOMEN SHARE THIS BLOG WITH YOUR MAN!

The thought of fatherhood can be exciting, scary, and nerve-wrecking but most of all it is humble. Women are very emotional creatures who can freely express their feelings. But as men we are raised differently. We are taught to stay tough no matter what. From an early age we are taught that if something hurts too simply, "walk it off." We are taught that girls are made from "sugar and spice and everything nice" and that we're to be tough as nails "a true man's man."

In the movie, A League of Their Own, Tom Hanks reminds one of his female players, "There's no crying in baseball!" It is that same mentality that men have been raised, "There's no crying in manhood!" Up until the mid 1990's all boys were taught to be the defender, the provider and there was no room for emotion (unless of course your favorite team happens to win the World Series, Super Bowl, etc.)

So, like a typical man I was not as emotional as my wife expected when she told me the news. Sure I was happy and excited but I didn't react the same way she did so she thought I was upset. On the contrary, I was very happy. However, nothing can break to the heart of a tough guy like a sonogram. Yesterday, Monday, August 22, 2005, my tough skin was cracked wide open! On our second visit to the midwife, I got to see the little one on a sonogram.

Now I've had many future moms come up to me at work and stick a little piece of glossy paper with black and white swirls all over it and say, "Look, there's my baby." I didn't have a clue what I was looking at! I politely smiled and said, "Wow, that's so sweet." So, I didn't know what to expect during the sonogram. However, I was thrilled and overcome with emotion when the image on the screen focused and I saw the perfect image of my baby kicking, tossing, and turning all over the place. Words can not explain the excitment of seeing a baby still in the womb tossing and turning all over the place. At only 6.5 cm., and only 12 weeks old, it was no longer "just something making my wife sick every morning" it was a living being that was equally half me and half her. On that screen the love that I have for my beautiful wife was personified!

And now I have a glossy piece of paper that serves as my baby's first photo. I immediately ran out to Wal-Mart and bought a frame for the photo of our new family member and placed it on our coffee table. Today, my wife asked my premission to bring it to work (of course, I made her promise that she would keep it safe, not remove it from the frame, and bring safely home.) I now understand the excitment of every women who loves the opportunity of sharing the image of their sonogram.

Week 12

2005-08-22T18:51:00.000-04:00

How's the Baby?

about 2 inches
weights 1/2 ounce
face more human
eyes moved closer together
ears moved to the side of head
nerve cells multiplying rapidly
sucking, squirm if abdomen

How's Mama?

uterus rising above pelvic bones
waist growing