tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68481059235072802622012-01-24T21:40:53.674-05:00"All you can do is to be at every single moment as true as you can with all the power in your being - and then leave it to God to use you, even despite yourself." -- Anthony BloomTrina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.comBlogger1101100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-53291465376106497912011-07-30T10:18:00.000-04:002011-07-30T10:18:18.013-04:00

You can find me at: http://trinabaughn.blogspot.com/

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-28046931907948376752011-07-18T16:35:00.000-04:002011-07-18T16:35:48.541-04:00

Honorable Mayor and Members of the Oak Ridge City Council - I humbly submit my resume for consideration to serve on city council. I am an eleven year resident of Oak Ridge, a qualified voter, a property owner and an active participant in local affairs who is heavily invested in the long-term survival of our city. To this position, I offer: • A record of civic involvement that includes

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-85147966385596514062011-06-21T10:49:00.000-04:002011-06-21T10:49:05.353-04:00

For years, I have prepared and frozen onions, bell peppers & cooked ground beef for quick access when making various recipes. More recently, I’ve added cheeses, beaten eggs, sautéed mushrooms, chopped celery, garlic & carrots and a host of pureed produce to the mix. I got the idea to freeze pureed foods from Jessica Seinfeld’s book, Deceptively Delicious. In her effort to have her children eat

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-18330296503718519762011-06-13T08:46:00.003-04:002011-08-17T08:23:57.111-04:00

Well, we did it! We took our maiden voyage aboard the soon-to-be-if-not-already-infamous MegaBus. For those who haven’t heard of it, the MegaBus is a super cheap coach service that operates primarily in the Northeast. Last November, they added a Knoxville-to-Washington D.C. route. As of right now, they depart twice a day (mid morning & late evening) with roughly 9 hours of scheduled travel. From

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-10658630909919612202011-05-05T10:53:00.002-04:002011-07-18T06:51:59.359-04:00

For the Oak Ridge schools' 2012 budget, the Board of Education is requesting a 7.32 percent increase in funds from the city, $1,059,171 more than last year. However, it is critical that we maintain, not increase, funding, given the serious state of our economy, our extremely high tax rate, and the overwhelming level of debt we have amassed (most of which, some $90+ million dollars, has been

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-67167063685848122272011-04-18T21:21:00.000-04:002011-04-18T21:21:53.450-04:00

Many years ago, when Bret and I decided to get married, I recall people asking me about my love for him. I remember asking myself the questions “Why do I love him?” “How do I know this is love?” “How do I know this is love that will last?” I also recall never really coming up with a concrete or even an abstract answer. I’ve since learned, however, that love is experiential. As I’ve mentioned

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-149525384271651642011-04-06T10:48:00.001-04:002011-04-06T11:38:45.704-04:00

These are some of the things I strive to teach my children. When it’s all said and done, I hope and pray that I will have lived a life that reflected these things. • Cling to the hope that Jesus (and only Jesus) gave you on the cross. This is most important at those moments when you are at your most hopeless points in life. • Mean what you say, say what you mean, and do what you say you are

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-31992834656103781392010-09-14T21:50:00.000-04:002010-09-14T21:50:34.759-04:00

I hope you will consider sharing this link (which discusses a screenplay that a friend of mine hopes to have produced) with any and everyone you know. It is, in part, the story of the town I have lived in for the past 10 years; the town that my grandparents came to in 1943 when they joined an effort that was so secretive that even they did not know what they were really doing. (My grandmother was

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-61220595752531549222010-09-12T12:06:00.000-04:002010-09-12T12:06:33.467-04:00

Woke up this morning and this is what went through my mind as I dashed downstairs in my socks and pj's and out to the very back of our property where my son was sleeping: “Oh crap! It’s 7:45! He’s going to be late. He’s going to miss it. Shoot. He’s down in the shack. I could call him, but he's probably got his phone on vibrate and won't answer. There's no time to waste. I’ve got to run all the

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-67254598839572004942010-08-22T23:38:00.001-04:002010-08-22T23:45:09.660-04:00

I involved myself in a discussion on Facebook regarding religion that I felt compelled to more fully address here. Specifically, I’d like to speak to some common arguments made against Christianity (as being the only way to eternal life). I don’t desire to cram anything down anyone’s throat and I don’t make any claim to having all of the answers or even a partial understanding about God. I do

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-8182588504078577152010-08-10T22:50:00.000-04:002010-08-10T22:50:38.590-04:00

VBS @ Calvary Baptist. Run. Vacay of a lifetime. Run. TR earns major bank @ first job and spends it on a ton o’ “fresh” clothes. Run. Cousin sleepovers. Run. Inch learns to swim. Run. Remodel bathroom. Run. Officially transition from preferring Rotel dip to straight cheddar nachos. Run, run, run!!!! I’m not cool, I’m old, I know. But I'm fighting off 40 with everything I've got!

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-76560082967081508312010-07-04T15:56:00.005-04:002011-06-29T10:57:56.114-04:00

Sunday, June 13thOur flight left Knoxville for Charlotte at 9:20a.m. I so love both of these airports because they are so easy! Our first stroke of luck was that all of our planning and weighing paid off – we only had to pay for 2 pieces of luggage and the big one I was worried about weighed in just under the 50 lb limit at 49.5 lbs! After a very short layover, we were in the Caribbean by 1:00.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-24572397459639551112010-06-20T13:17:00.003-04:002010-06-20T13:23:24.597-04:00

There are many characteristics that come to mind when I think about my dad. The one that stands out the most when I reflect on my childhood is “protector.” I’ll never forget the day he picked me up from school in 3rd grade. I was crying because Ms. Stovall had grabbed me and aggressively shook me for putting my paper in the wrong pile. She was one scary old lady with her 6 foot thin frame, bug

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-30387987264809331992010-04-02T21:42:00.005-04:002011-07-18T06:52:55.944-04:00

It's that time of year again. I submitted this prior to last night's public forum and was very encouraged to hear some board members took my suggestions, along with others, seriously. Public interest and feedback appears to be at an all time high. That's a very good thing. Oak Ridge School Board Members: With regards to the proposed FY2011 school budget, I understand that the initial projected

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-83837273004945341512010-03-18T20:14:00.003-04:002010-03-18T20:17:04.703-04:00

The kids and I loaded up and headed to Indiana and Kentucky for a few days. We spent time with some dear friends from our days in Germany who now live in Evansville. They have three adorable boys. The eldest is a mini-me of his father if ever there were one. I had the privilege of reading a 36 paragraph paper he’d written and just couldn’t believe his talent at the young age of 10. The second

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-83800432152925137552010-03-11T19:45:00.005-05:002010-03-11T19:50:58.085-05:00

This is one of those days that I hope my neighbors didn’t hear me. Sadly, it’s not the first time. I could make light of it and say that I lost my mind (which is what it felt like); but the truth of the matter is that I lost control and acted like a complete fool. The call went something like this: TR: “Mom, I stopped by work and they want me to work tonight.” Me: “Have you finished your

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-23580435418891980122010-01-22T22:59:00.004-05:002010-01-23T10:05:35.021-05:00

I can’t believe I’m about to blog my diet story, but since I’m going at it again for a second time and have had a number of people ask me for details, I might as well.Long story short, two years after having Inch, I was still carrying an extra 20lbs. DH and I took the low carb approach and I lost 10 lbs in the first month and a total of 20 lbs by the end of 5 months. I kept that weight off for a

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-81687015363813495922009-12-31T20:48:00.003-05:002009-12-31T21:09:19.191-05:00

This year was hands-down one of the most blessed years of my life. In fact, the entire last decade exceeded my wildest dreams. If yours didn’t, I pray that the Lord will lead you towards your own decade of blessings and, more importantly, that you’ll follow.2000Metz Trip, VOY ball, graduation from UMUC, left Germany/Army for TN, first Evansville trip2001Seattle Trip to visit Susan, TX trip for W

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-86973706274091774752009-11-08T11:11:00.004-05:002009-11-08T11:24:11.629-05:00

Those poor overworked, underpaid celebs have more obligations than ever. These days, rap stars are expected to have their own line of booze and Hollywood hotties are obligated to slap their name to a perfume or cologne (because heaven knows we don’t have enough to choose from as is).Not to be out done, Pamela Anderson is hocking not one, but two perfumes. I can’t go much further with this without

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-5949697057705777562009-09-07T11:14:00.003-04:002009-09-07T11:23:16.790-04:00

I guess this is it. It’s Labor Day and summer is officially over. Ah, but it was a good one. With DH finishing up his school just before TR’s let out, we had plans to pack this summer with as much fun as we possibly could stand – and we did. We kicked it off with Inch attending her very first Vacation Bible School. Since FPC doesn’t do VBS, I took her to my family’s church. Don’t you know,

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-4696440072562321962009-08-11T22:50:00.007-04:002009-08-11T23:35:03.626-04:00

I’ve fond memories of dining at the Alt Landstuhl restaurant when we were living in Kaiserslautern because they served one of the most amazing entrees I’ve ever had - Chateaubriand.The presentation was something to behold as it most certainly was a feast fit for a king – a medieval one at that. Surrounded by roasted veggies, sat this humongous cut of béarnaise-smothered steak which sat atop a

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-36716956643749309262009-07-14T22:33:00.004-04:002011-07-18T07:10:10.534-04:00

As expected, the ORSB voted to extend Dr. Bailey’s contract this evening. We are now stuck with him through 2013. Before bestowing more glowing praise on the super and after thoroughly patting themselves on the back, the board had the administration provide a partial response to my letter. Unfortunately, as Mr. Green pretty much stated, the data is quite sophisticated and probably cannot be

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-38708729483518575302009-07-11T10:09:00.007-04:002011-07-18T06:54:11.063-04:00

On July 14th at 7:00p.m., the OR School Board will vote on extending the superintendent’s contract length and on a possible salary increase. Dr. Bailey was hired in 2002 and his current contract runs through 2012. According to the terms of his contract, the board is under no obligation to act on his contract until July 2011. The following has been submitted to Mr. Keys Fillauer, chairman of the

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-37362348905543015782009-07-07T16:47:00.004-04:002009-07-07T17:02:58.740-04:00

The line between acceptable and unacceptable behavior in our society has been seriously blurred. Never in my lifetime has this truth been more evident than it is today.I’ll never forget hearing the news about Princess Di. Even though I wasn’t really a fan of hers, I was shocked and saddened by her untimely death. Perhaps it was because I was a young mother and I felt for her sons. Or maybe it

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-92162585112744897372009-07-05T21:26:00.004-04:002009-07-19T08:50:26.307-04:00

Had to replace our washer today. I wasn’t too happy about it since our dead Kenmore was only 7 years old. That, and I simply don’t enjoy the prudence of researching and haggling as much as I once did. Consumer Reports isn’t so helpful now that models change out more frequently than they make their recommendations.We did want to upgrade a little for better quality, though we recognize that things

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-69616854411694183732009-06-27T17:26:00.006-04:002011-06-29T11:18:31.648-04:00

Had another fabulous vacation at Beaches in TCI. The weather was great and the resort was even better than before with a massive expansion of the Italian Village. Lots of snorkeling, great food and drink, and the kids had a blast. Inch couldn’t get enough of the Sesame Street characters (she tackled everyone she came into contact with) and TR was all about the girls and the new Liquid Club. DH

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-87036072897682677282009-05-30T22:41:00.004-04:002009-05-30T22:58:38.213-04:00

We had a wonderful time at Inch's 3rd birthday party today. We had it at the Oak Ridge Children's Museum (our new favorite place) and most all of the family got to come as well as many dear friends. The theme wasTinkerbell (with a Princess cake) and Inch made the most adorable Tink! Allof the kids seemed to have a great time and I have to admit to having a blast living out a childhood fantasy

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-66458415300118330672009-05-25T11:29:00.003-04:002011-07-18T06:54:50.808-04:00

Early Voting ends Thursday, May 28, 2009 @ Emory Valley Center (for both Roane and Anderson County) 10 am to 6 pm Polling Hours for Election Day, June 2, will be 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ******************* Having been actively involved in school issues for the last few years, I’ve listened to and studied this year’s school board candidates very closely. I feel, as I’m sure most do, that Oak Ridge is

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-46052633487055893382009-05-15T15:44:00.010-04:002011-07-18T07:10:50.623-04:00

And they're off!!!! The local election is now in full swing and I am excited about what is to come. Last night, the school board candidates participated in a highly informative forum that Netmom kindly summarized here. This town is prime for change. But like anything worth having, we'll have to work for it. Essential to that work is knowledge. People need to know the severity of the situation:

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-15283752284111490812009-04-14T22:14:00.003-04:002011-07-18T07:15:04.082-04:00

I submitted the following to the ORSB this evening. The formatting isn't as pretty as it should be, but it's been a very long day, so this is what you get. ------------------------------------ RECOMMENDATIONS Propose that all staff be afforded a 1% pay raise in lieu of a step increase and that the school system forego the $135,000 request for additional funds from the city as they exceed the

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-48119024073278461062009-03-28T21:53:00.003-04:002009-03-28T22:01:43.560-04:00

Earth Hour is Stupid

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-47843798045357592202009-03-26T20:08:00.000-04:002009-03-26T20:09:39.673-04:00

TR got a stomach bug last night but he was better by noon. I’m glad it wasn’t as bad as some of the other bugs going around.I’ve got a head cold that’s slowed me down all week and was excuse enough to avoid the gym. That worked out for the better since I got to spend more time at the hospital with my sister and new nephew.Got bad news first thing this morning at work, but not nearly as bad as

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-48980047092508728952009-03-18T14:17:00.002-04:002009-03-18T14:18:40.935-04:00

In a word, me.Had I read those words when they were first written, I probably would have responded the way you wish that I would now. But at this point in my life, I am able to see some positives in all of this. For example, that email was sent 2 days prior to me taking an action that was once completely out of character and went against my very nature. Immediately afterwards, I was glad that I

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-85568051781880863582009-02-28T11:14:00.001-05:002009-02-28T11:21:05.692-05:00

Here’s a tidbit that mothers of small children may find especially helpful. The building inspection codes of most cities and states (TN for sure) require that all business facilities have an operable, handicap-accessible bathroom. Further, if they serve the public, they are not allowed to deny access to anyone requesting to use their facilities. There are very few exceptions, i.e. stores located

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-15056881727201802052009-02-09T14:59:00.001-05:002009-02-09T15:01:33.229-05:00

I came across some profound questions in my study today:"What do you think you’d do if you thought you had God completely figured out?""What if you could learn to use God like a tool and get anything you wanted?"My initial answer to the first was that I’d simply crumble. My mind cannot begin to fathom what it would feel like to have such knowledge. I couldn’t begin to imagine an answer for the

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-26889154397228881202009-02-08T12:02:00.005-05:002009-02-10T21:16:26.085-05:00

A few exceptions aside, I can’t stay awake through an entire movie to save my life. It’s just another sign of aging, I suppose. Last night was one of those rare occasions that I made it all the way through a movie and enjoyed it. I think that deserves some honorable mention, or at least a footnote to jog my memory in the future.In Bruges had remained tucked away in its Netflix sleeve for over

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-34054590891689484222009-02-07T16:52:00.002-05:002009-02-07T16:59:15.039-05:00

After a week of below-freezing temps which included 2 snow days for the kids, this day is amazing! I’ve thrown open the windows and doors and it’s a breezy 70 degrees inside while it’s 65 degrees outside! Got Inch out for a bit. First went over to the Children’s Museum. What fun! She had a blast going from room to room and asking about everything she laid eyes on. We'll have to get a

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-72041427935287915022009-02-02T22:30:00.003-05:002009-02-02T22:35:28.196-05:00

From an email I received entitled "A Great Recipe for a peace-filled life in 2009." I'm particularly fond of #6. Since he was very young, I've tried to encourage TR to do this very thing when I drop him off for school. 1. Take a 10 to 30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant. 2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Talk to God about

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-11334981729740542009-01-29T22:10:00.002-05:002009-01-29T22:21:56.327-05:00

Pssst. Did you know that there is a plan for your life? No, really, there is. Yes, really, you. God has some truly amazing things in store for you and he wanted me to share that with you. Yes! I really am talking to YOU! Now, keep in mind that your plan and His plan may not be the same; in fact, it’s highly unlikely that they are. After all, your thoughts are not His thoughts and your ways

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-68561284689979066642009-01-15T14:58:00.000-05:002009-01-15T14:59:12.076-05:00

“The Lord protects you; the Lord is a shelter right by your side.” Psalm 121:5I’m working through a Beth Moore study on the Psalms of Ascent (ironically discussed here). I’m a bit behind because, in part, I’m not enjoying it as much as I had hoped I would. I’m pushing forward though, because I’m not disciplined enough to just crack open the Bible at any old time and glean the meaning I think I

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-87294448605373168802009-01-13T14:34:00.003-05:002009-01-13T14:45:13.371-05:00

So what if we’re already halfway through January, I’m going to finish something I started. The way I see it, if it takes me through 2010 to get these done, I’ll have accomplished a lot more than I would have otherwise. By all appearances, it is an exhaustive list; however, for most goals I’ve attached some specific steps that I’ve left off here but included in my print copy.Personal- Love and

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-91896572524383502792009-01-12T22:12:00.001-05:002011-06-29T11:23:17.163-04:00

After going through an 11 week bureaucratic nightmare in order to get my passport renewed two years ago, DH just got his back in 10 days – that’s 6 business days! He simply went through our local post office and mailed it himself. He didn’t even apply for the expedited service, which, for $60 more, is supposed to get you your passport in hand in 2 weeks (it used to be 6 weeks). I’m not

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-44386336827088035942009-01-06T20:57:00.003-05:002009-01-07T12:33:03.628-05:00

O.K. I don't care how many times I've seen this one, I crack up every time I read it!1. At lunch time, sit In your parked car with sunglasses on and point a hair dryer at passing cars. See if they slow down.2. Page yourself over the intercom. Don't disguise your voice!3. Every time someone asks you to do something, ask if they want fries with that.4. Put Decaf in the coffee maker for 3 weeks.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-57007139177464145222009-01-04T22:33:00.003-05:002009-01-04T22:43:22.185-05:00

I’m finally getting around to closing out the old year and planning for the new. We kept busy in 2008 with DH going to school, TR wrapping up his freshman year and tackling the first half of his sophomore year with much success, and Inch surpassing more of the above-average toddler benchmarks than we could keep up with.We’re still surviving TR’s learning to drive, but DH assures me that he’s an

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-48188143780584860442008-12-21T12:54:00.003-05:002008-12-21T13:10:21.258-05:00

After weeks on the go, it’s finally time to slow down and fully enjoy the season. Actually, I’ve already enjoyed some of my favorite moments. The next few days are just icing on the cake. I’m so looking forward to the excitement of having a toddler run into the living room to see what Santa brought. I never tire of witnessing those moments of pure joy and wonder.aTalk DH into buying a real

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-65985222237883157922008-12-01T20:47:00.001-05:002008-12-01T20:52:02.059-05:00

Whew! What a great holiday weekend! For the first time since we were kids, I got to share Thanksgiving with one of my brothers. Good company and food. Four days later and we still have leftovers. (Mmmmmmm, carbs how I’ve missed you!) A dear friend from my grade school days came up with her family from Texas for a visit. We gave them the Oak Ridge tour complete with a trip to Big Ed’s (darn

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-18906886453218772402008-11-16T23:05:00.004-05:002008-12-01T20:50:07.188-05:00

Life is never dull when you have a toddler. Just going to the bathroom takes on a whole new meaning. A few weeks back, while at a restaurant, Inch needed to go potty. When we got in there, she reminded me not to take her cup (a cartoon cup the waitress had given her). The whole while we were taking care of business, she asked questions and talked very loudly about everything she was seeing

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-78950246287571589842008-11-07T18:09:00.001-05:002008-11-07T18:11:07.271-05:00

My pics don't do them justice, but I'd swear the fall colors this year are the most vibrant I've ever seen!

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-22001143450776907132008-11-05T20:10:00.002-05:002008-11-05T20:14:58.675-05:00

“…but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” Romans 8:5 Once transformed by the Holy Spirit, we are no longer driven by fear. I believe this is replaced with a spirit of discernment. When God wants my attention, he’s not subtle. When a thought or idea comes to mind that I quickly dismiss or withdraw from, yet lingers in my thoughts, it is

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-22429957151307606942008-11-04T12:23:00.000-05:002008-11-04T12:24:38.421-05:00

Election season is somewhat of a roller coaster ride for me. I spend a good amount of time researching issues and candidates and debating/discussing them with others. It can be exhausting if I let it. But when the day finally arrives, it all feels so worthwhile. It has nothing to do, really, with my expectations about the outcomes. I guess it’s the true patriot in me that comes out. This

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-31307379675595768492008-11-02T22:37:00.002-05:002008-11-02T22:56:10.852-05:00

...but according to at least one trick-or-treater, we are the "Jack Pot House!" Halloween was more fun than ever this year. Before the big day arrived, I'd already taken Inch to the city Halloween party and the pumpkin fest at Grove Center. Great fun for tots and adults alike.This year, we covered all but one of our normal traditions. We ran out of time to carve the pumpkin but we did have our

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-18268290669074658262008-10-26T15:36:00.002-04:002008-10-26T15:39:35.512-04:00

Every weekday morning, I bring DH “the baby,” as he still calls her. While they are both still snoozing, I carry Inchworm into our room and put her on his chest. They both cling to each other hoping I’ll just go away and leave them be. It’s the only chance they get to spend any time together during the week and I’m more than happy to let them have their moment before rushing out the door.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-83994218204540046032008-10-25T19:12:00.004-04:002009-01-06T21:06:51.007-05:00

I've had this hanging on my desk forever. Time to file it away (electronically). Enjoy!Hugh Gallagher's 'College Essay'It seems that Hugh Gallagher wrote this for a national writing contest, and that an Urban Legend has since arisen that he wrote it as an actual application essay. 18 June 1998, update. Hugh Gallagher emailed me(!), and said: "I was happy to see my college essay on your site (by

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-42950923938815365572008-10-07T17:38:00.005-04:002008-10-07T17:49:49.469-04:00

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-78920389882753695892008-10-06T21:04:00.001-04:002008-10-06T21:07:39.951-04:00

...a smoked ham is not necessarily cooked. And, as I found out after peeling back the price tag, some hams are actually labeled “Ready to Cook” instead of "Ready to Eat." These are good things to know before one cuts into a ham and mixes it into a nearly-complete pasta dish.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-23975296421770598442008-09-26T23:28:00.005-04:002008-10-01T16:16:31.181-04:00

In spite of the fact that the overwhelming majority of Americans (some estimates are at over 90%) are against a financial bail out, it appears that most of our elected officials are determined to pass such a plan anyway as if to say, “I know better than you.” Funny, but WE elected them. Their arrogance just illuminates the seriousness of our situation. For what it’s worth, I’ve let my thoughts be

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-68575030862384590312008-09-23T22:51:00.003-04:002008-09-23T23:04:11.142-04:00

Call me cruel, but I’ve long thought that PETA were a bunch of idiots. Any and all doubt has been removed with their recent request of Ben & Jerry’s to replace cow’s milk with human milk in their products."The fact that human adults consume huge quantities of dairy products made from milk that was meant for a baby cow just doesn't make sense," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-74206119930091437452008-09-20T23:37:00.003-04:002008-09-21T00:08:57.231-04:00

Since first hearing of it over a year ago, I’ve been eagerly anticipating watching the movie “Maxed Out” with my son. I’d heard really positive things about it and hoped that it would provide insight to TR about the importance of individual, financial responsibility. I was sadly disappointed.The beginning of the movie does a great job of enlightening folks on the predatory practices of the

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-30942086846956757882008-09-07T23:08:00.002-04:002008-09-07T23:12:40.496-04:00

I never paid much attention to hurricanes until Katrina. DH and I had spent our 10th anniversary in NOLA just a year or so prior and TR went on a mission trip down there after the disaster, so it was much more of a reality for me than it might have been otherwise. Now, just a year after celebrating our 15th anniversary in Turks and Caicos, it too has been hit hard by a cat 4 named Ike. The few

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-79687946998320471352008-08-30T15:37:00.005-04:002008-09-14T10:26:02.410-04:00

Every election year, the stench of liberal arrogance permeates the nation in a most inescapable way. Staunch dems mock conservatives as if we were all simple-minded country folk who, bless our hearts, just don’t know any better. They laugh at us for choosing to worship a creator over science. We’re scolded for wanting to protect the life of an unborn infant more so than that of a lab rat.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-75594339849660014792008-08-21T21:29:00.002-04:002008-08-21T21:36:43.443-04:00

It’s been a rather somber day. But, as I sit hear and contemplate the tragic events of this morning, I am pleasantly distracted. Inch and TR are both in bed and DH and I are downstairs doing the internet/TV/basement things that we do. The monitor is on and I hear Inch singing her ABC’s, conversing with her baby doll, giggling. TR occasionally hollers at her to hush. These are my favorite

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-82345060423132461922008-08-17T22:01:00.001-04:002008-08-17T22:16:54.867-04:00

Alas, summer has come to an end. I have to say, it was one of my most enjoyable ones yet. Kicking it off, MIL made a trip up from Texas. She spent the week treating us all to dinners, shopping and, of course, her great company. The timing was perfect since her visit coincided with the Secret City Festival. This meant that we all took in a lot more of it than we would have otherwise. MIL is

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-29209494175482648912008-08-13T17:02:00.006-04:002008-08-17T22:20:53.681-04:00

After positive experiences with both my dentist and doctor’s offices this week, I realized that I have a number of reliable businesses with whom I am actually pretty pleased. After brief consideration, here’s my list. Though the list of companies that suck is longer, most of my money goes to companies that don’t. That's a good thing.Sunshine PlayschoolO.K. I'm embarassed to admit that I

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-56454860444036446892008-07-27T17:09:00.004-04:002008-09-14T10:26:30.402-04:00

"I am not skilled to understandWhat God has willed, what God has plannedI only know at His right handStands One who is my Savior"--Aaron Shust

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-7900367294651896122008-07-20T19:29:00.003-04:002008-07-21T10:45:33.303-04:00

Last week, I happened to catch in the Observer that Shelby Lynne was coming to town. She’s one of my all-time favorite female vocalists and I jumped at the chance to go see her. Though once considered more of a country artist, she’s never really fit that mold. More than country, more than soul, she sounds like she rose straight up out of the Mississippi Delta.The concert was at the Bijou – a tiny

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-38027284127548362342008-07-08T20:48:00.002-04:002008-07-08T20:52:56.745-04:00

Another good one sent by another dear friend who, to me, resembles the heart of the father in this story. Love you Candy!This is a true story! The son asked his father, 'Dad, will you take part in a marathon with me?' The father who, despite having a heart condition, says 'Yes'. They went on to complete the marathon together. Father and son went on to join other marathons, the father always

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-53727823697424297252008-06-27T18:43:00.002-04:002008-06-27T18:48:20.717-04:00

Inchworm and I enjoyed another mother/daughter day at Splash Country & Dollywood. I wasn’t really sure if we’d be able to pull off both parks in one day; but with a little planning and some luck, we did so perfectly. The great thing about this age is that her enjoyment is so pure and so simple. Unless she’s sick, she’s about as easy as they come for a two year old. We spent the first couple of

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-69368430371860053832008-06-23T22:29:00.004-04:002008-06-23T22:33:21.941-04:00

Everyone has a cell phone customer service nightmare of a story; strike that; anyone who owns a cell phone has multiple customer service nightmare stories. And I know that there are about a million people who've had to endure much worse than I. Let’s face it, as open minded as I’d like to be, the telecom industry is EVIL (excluding my friends and family who’ve worked for them).Having been a cell

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-20933319588330057192008-06-15T19:08:00.003-04:002008-06-15T19:10:31.811-04:00

When considering the fact that dads all too often get a bad wrap in our society, I am especially blessed to know so many great dads; not the least of which are my own father and the father of my children. Both are extraordinarily dedicated to their children and have a capacity for love that never fails to amaze me.The extents that they go to for their children may never be fully appreciated by

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-18830530618997140922008-06-01T13:08:00.002-04:002008-06-01T13:16:19.785-04:00

Teenrager completed his freshman year last week and not a day too soon. And while he’s ready for a lazy, non-eventful summer, I’m working hard to make that dream impossible. He’ll have a couple of days to unwind, but he leaves for a mission trip this Friday that will take him to a homeless mission in Waco, TX. I’m praying for a transforming time to be had by all.Upon his return, he’ll begin

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-7485782725228353292008-05-29T20:55:00.002-04:002008-05-29T20:59:47.459-04:00

Sent to me by a special friend on my special day.You are who you are for a reason.You're part of an intricate plan.You're a precious and perfect unique design,Called God's special woman or man.You look like you look for a reason.Our God made no mistake.He knit you together within the womb,You're JUST what he wanted to make.The parents you had were the ones he chose,And no matter how you may feel,

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-12775797016720161812008-04-28T13:10:00.003-04:002008-04-29T18:45:43.198-04:00

I’m not a terribly vain person, but I do enjoy having a nice tan some summers. And since I hate to lay out, tanning salons can provide a more palatable alternative. Now, the few times I’ve done this over the years, I have to say that every experience has proven to be just about the same - no matter where I go. It starts with an initial visit to check on pricing. You’d think, given the wide array

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-54693176785258093552008-04-25T21:28:00.011-04:002008-10-03T17:44:26.507-04:00

With each new season, I appreciate our home’s landscape (and that of our entire town for that matter) more and more. I definitely don’t have a green thumb, but we have been blessed by the efforts of our home’s previous owners. So, here’s my tip: Long before you think of selling your home, be sure to take pictures of your property during each of the different seasons. When the time comes, you can

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-88275299072560101062008-03-26T12:41:00.002-04:002008-03-26T12:43:23.793-04:00

I’ve made a decision. I’m now making a concerted effort to avoid patronizing certain businesses in town (they are national chains, not locally owned, BTW). It won’t be easy, but based on a number of principals as well as my growing frustration each time I give them my money, I have to do it. My first effort paid off very well. Rather than conduct my monthly grocery shopping at the usual place

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-28943454608108682332008-03-23T15:08:00.006-04:002008-06-27T18:55:11.252-04:00

Romans 10:9 "That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, then you will be saved."Be Blessed.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-89858345001196506082008-03-20T20:15:00.003-04:002008-03-20T20:23:29.304-04:00

I've had this song stuck in my head off and on for a good 10 years (well, by the date on the video, it's probably been since it came out which would make that 12 years). It's just such a fun song and the video is just silly - I can't stay in a bad mood whenever I hear it.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-45185946189982974762008-03-09T21:26:00.003-04:002008-03-09T21:28:11.978-04:00

Depending on where you are seated, it can be one of the most exhilarating or terrifying times of life. And for a while now, I’ve successfully tucked it’s inevitability far enough back in my subconscious to avoid prematurely stressing myself out. But it hit me the other day just how much closer that time was nearing –it’s not next year as I kept telling myself – it’s only 7 months away! I am

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-2499477359978929722008-03-01T20:59:00.002-05:002008-04-28T13:18:50.102-04:00

I’ve been working our children’s security program at my church for about 4 years now. And most days it’s a pretty easy, fun job. Every now and then I’ll get someone who expresses some resistance or questions what I’m doing. I don’t usually let it bother me because I know that not everyone appreciates the purpose of what we’re doing.Tonight was a little different. I politely stopped a lady to

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-54788473662995616622008-02-03T11:45:00.001-05:002008-02-03T12:27:13.159-05:00

I don't believe I've ever loved another company or their products quite as much as I do Google. Their story is incredible. Their products revolutionary. And with a corporate philosophy like "Don't be evil," how could anyone not admire them?I first found Google shortly after its birth when a college professor suggested using it to find more obscure research on a dying Germanic language. I

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-22754289525133017772008-01-16T22:27:00.001-05:002011-06-29T11:33:59.339-04:00

If you are even thinking about applying for a passport, or simply renewing yours, you might want to read this. I’ll start with my top tips and you can read on at your leisure (it’s ridiculously long) to understand their basis. - When initially applying, know that whatever date you put down for traveling out of the country is the date the state department will use to deny or grant expedited

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-35203968632710049432008-01-02T17:30:00.001-05:002008-06-27T18:54:35.541-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2i32NkW0s94&feature=relatedInchworm loves the 1-2-3-4 song. Found this while looking for it. So glad I've never caved; my 6 GB Mini still works just fine for what I need.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-58158684707753854422007-12-24T15:27:00.000-05:002007-12-24T15:41:16.868-05:00

I’ve been tagged by Citizen Netmom to provide a "Christmas Meme" profile, so here it goes. The rules involve tagging other blogs, but I don't know anyone who hasn't already been tagged. Maybe I'll email it.Welcome to the Christmas edition of "Getting to Know Your Friends."1. Wrapping or gift bags? Both – except for Santa’s - he doesn’t wrap his2. Real or artificial tree?

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-25516310387965134372007-12-23T13:55:00.000-05:002007-12-23T13:59:38.754-05:00

Wishing you all a very blessed and Merry Christmas!2007 Year in ReviewJanuary – first word “Da da” blows kisses, waves “bye bye”February – Visit GraeffsMarch - first stepsApril - walkingMay – End of Middle SchoolJune – Gatlinburg with the HiggsJuly – Family Vacation to TCIAugust – Cross Country Camp; High School!September – Ear Tube Surgery; Crossing Guard StartsOctober – Crossing Guard Ends; “Ca

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-82079946081046064212007-12-13T12:38:00.001-05:002011-07-18T07:03:55.840-04:00

http://www.oakridger.com/stories/121307/opi_225055606.shtml “Oak Ridge Schools only care about the best of the best.” “Unless you are super intelligent or a superstar on the football team, you are nobody in Oak Ridge Schools.” Have you ever heard statements like these? Have you ever said them yourself? Have you ever had an experience that supported such opinions? Generalized statements like

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-4299826933859526302007-12-01T21:20:00.000-05:002007-12-01T21:44:30.890-05:00

I decided about a week ago that we'd be taking our littlest to the parade today. When I told DH, he said, "But, we're not parade people." He was right - I hadn't realized it, but I don't think we'd ever taken our oldest to a parade. Thinking back, it may have been that, for the first 7 years of his life, we lived on an overseas post and didn't have parades. Maybe we did, but just didn't care.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-39198563241150528262007-11-21T13:41:00.000-05:002007-11-21T13:58:26.606-05:00

That's for you - whoever you are. Even though it's a lot about sharing, writing is somewhat of a selfish endeavor. Most of the time I feel good when I share, but sometimes I feel a little too exposed. And in these last few months, I've often felt nearly naked. That, though, can be therapeutic. I think it helps me to grow.For whatever reasons you visit here or read what I say elsewhere, I really

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-7030420804536032982007-10-26T20:35:00.000-04:002007-10-26T20:51:31.281-04:00

"It’s a wonder I haven’t abandoned all my ideals, they seem so absurd and impractical. Yet I cling to them because I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart. " - Anne FrankIt's easy to criticize. It's easy to get caught up in the negatives and overlook the positives in life and in others. We're all guilty of it sometimes, aren't we? So why is it so hard for some

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-37706013461953101942007-10-20T09:45:00.000-04:002007-10-20T13:28:56.846-04:00

I've seen a lot of pain (in others) this past week. Heck, I've seen and experienced my share of pain throughout my life. I don't like it, but who does?Pain results from many things, not the least of which is pure evil. There isn't a doubt in my mind that the world is (and always has been) caught up in a battle of good verses evil. And, on a global scale, evil, it appears, is winning. While that

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-79073378066714853542007-09-30T13:58:00.000-04:002007-09-30T14:37:59.654-04:00

Salty dogma http://www.worldmag.com/articles/10892I came across this interview from 2005 with Bono regarding his faith. For such a short read, it is a truly amazing conversation in which Bono addresses the question of authenticity (how could someone like him really be a Christian?) and, in doing so, beautifully illustrates the essence of Christ’s love for us – His Grace.He discusses the widely

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-2209959532693416462007-09-08T18:37:00.002-04:002011-07-18T07:16:14.146-04:00

It’s no wonder that I’ve had my share of critics speak out in recent months. Perhaps the most common statement that I’ve heard is that the school budget is too complicated for me to understand, let alone appreciate. And while I’ve never claimed accounting as a strength, I’m not convinced that I’m incapable of appreciating the nuances of this budget. I initially approached the subject from a

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-68910734709292605712007-09-02T19:52:00.000-04:002007-09-02T19:54:32.719-04:00

So I’ve let my pride get the best of me this past week. More specifically, I was quick to anger. I hate it when that happens. I’ve learned some things, though, so at least the humility factor is still at work. Perhaps the number one lesson has been just how thin the line is between glorifying Christ and tarnishing His name. We’re called to be His light. Oh how easily pride can undermine

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-47300749272310268082007-08-23T13:18:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:17:55.231-04:00

Because the school funding campaign has already begun with the numerous articles about the need for a new preschool (and you can bet a new administration building will be thrown in again as it was a few years ago), I decided to respond to the articles recently run about how enrollment is up and how the schools hired 30 brand new teachers instead of taking the opportunity to correct the overage

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-25314347270280164332007-08-22T21:18:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:17:22.005-04:00

It has been said that the details of the Fellner case are of no one’s concern but those directly involved. I beg to differ. Here are just a few folks who have a vested interest in its outcome (aside from the accused and the accusers).  Anyone who yelled about the fireworks this year - if you got ticked off over such a minimal loss, wait until taxpayers get the final bill on a case that stemmed

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-16182294887048064402007-08-03T12:06:00.000-04:002007-09-03T12:26:37.863-04:00

Our whole family agrees that this was our best vacation ever. In spite of a rocky start and a few minor inconveniences, we had a blast. The food and drink were great and always available. (We learned mid-way to stock up on yogurts, muffins and cereals at breakfast for when we wanted to sleep in.) The staff were all exceptional – anything we asked they took care of. Inchworm even latched on to

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-40158505711764623042007-07-31T14:30:00.000-04:002007-07-31T14:45:16.086-04:00

I feel spiritually challenged on just about a daily basis. In some areas, I feel that I've progressed and moved forward, but there are some things that I have a difficult time truly turning over to God and sometimes wonder if I'll ever see a light. One of those involves certain family relationships. I know the true love of my Lord and want so badly to have a mutually-unconditional love with

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-78363512227596463242007-07-17T14:39:00.000-04:002007-09-02T14:14:13.336-04:00

I'm not sure of a better way to do this, but I wanted to post all of my communications from the last few months/year regarding our local politics. Maybe I'll use it as a basis to paint the full picture.It may take a little time, but I'll also post unpublished questions and the sometimes entertaining, always selective responses I've received.

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-52894784394240035262007-07-15T14:44:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:16:55.700-04:00

Should City Council inquire about specifics in the OR School Budget? There have been a lot of public statements made that our City Council has “no business” even looking at, let alone questioning, specific line items in the School Budget. For the life of me, I cannot understand the basis of this belief. Our City Charter states that council “cannot modify or delete any item in the OR School

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-45598455581155211672007-07-14T15:15:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:14:27.856-04:00

After having received a substantial increase in funding from council and having received $1.9 million unexpected dollars from the state’s new BEP plan, the OR School Board still cites insufficient funding for the 2007/2008 school year. On July 11, 2007, the school board held a work session to discuss the $1.9 million BEP funds. Their attached Budget Impact Statement attempts to account for and

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-6654558788836921482007-07-13T16:26:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:14:05.333-04:00

For many years now, the Oak Ridge School Board has requested additional funding from the City Council while inferring that our schools are in jeopardy. While certain members have indicated that they do not desire “to pit one city service against another” year after year, this is exactly what has happened. When council cannot meet 100% of your demands, a public rally against them ensues without

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6848105923507280262.post-80032207099871232072007-07-13T14:46:00.001-04:002011-07-18T07:13:34.184-04:00

With the signing of the new BEP by Gov. Bredeson last week, the OR School Board has indicated that the Oak Ridge Schools will receive $1.9 million additional dollars for FY2008. This amount will more than cover the $140,000 cited shortfall as well as the reinstatement of the bus transportation previously cut to students living within a 1 mile radius of their respective schools. I respectively

Trina Baughnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08249955390724728056noreply@blogger.com0