1. Tulsi Gabbard Resigns as Director of National Intelligence Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard announced her resignation on Friday. In a social media post, Gabbard stated she is stepping down from her cabinet position to care for her husband, who is battling an extremely rare form of bone cancer. Her departure marks the latest high-profile exit from the administration's second-term national security team. Gabbard faced skepticism from day one due to her lack of conventional intelligence experience and past unorthodox foreign policy views. The breaking point occurred earlier this year when Gabbard testified to Congress that U.S. intelligence believed Iran was not building a nuclear weapon. President Trump publicly dismissed her assessment, explicitly telling reporters "she's wrong". Her departure, effective June 30, follows other high-profile exits from the second-term cabinet, including former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and former Attorney General Pam Bondi. https://www.npr.org/sections/national/ 2. DHS Upends the Green Card Application Process The Department of Homeland Security announced a sweeping policy shift requiring foreigners already living in the United States to return to their home countries to apply for permanent residency. This surprise move effectively eliminates the long-standing "adjustment of status" process from within the country, raising concerns that hundreds of thousands of applicants could be forced to leave. The administration framed this as removing "loopholes" and forcing applicants into consular processing abroad. Legal experts warn this will trigger massive backlogs, jeopardize the jobs of vital foreign workers, and cause prolonged family separations as applicants wait months or years in their home countries for a final decision. https://www.npr.org/sections/politics/ 3. Trump Collides with Senate GOP Over $1.8 Billion "Anti-Weaponization" Fund A fierce legislative battle erupted between the White House and congressional Republicans over a proposed $1.8 billion "anti-weaponization" fund. Intended to compensate individuals who claim they were targeted by partisan government attacks, the fund was met with fierce resistance. Senate Republicans openly revolted and ultimately postponed a crucial vote on immigration enforcement funding to block the measure. : Senate Republicans fiercely rebelled against the White House. Lawmakers, including traditional allies, labeled it an unvouched "slush fund" and balked at provisions that could allow payouts to individuals arrested during the January 6 Capitol riot. To block it, Republicans joined Democrats in halting the broader immigration funding bill. https://www.npr.org/sections/politics/ 4. House Cancels Vote on Iran War Powers to Shield the Administration House Republican leaders abruptly canceled a scheduled vote on an Iran war powers resolution that was on the verge of passing. The resolution, which sought to curb executive authority regarding strikes on Iran, had already advanced through the Senate in a 50-47 vote. Leadership pulled the bill to shield the president from an official congressional rebuke just as U.S. and Iranian negotiators exchanged peace proposals via Pakistani mediators. : Three previous iterations had failed on razor-thin margins. On Thursday, House Republican leaders realized that due to internal defections and several GOP member absences, the anti-war resolution had the votes to pass. To prevent an embarrassing official rebuke of the president's war strategy, leadership abruptly pulled the bill from the floor right before the Memorial Day recess. https://www.cnn.com/politics 5. Trump-Backed Primary Challenger Ousts Rep. Thomas Massie In a major test of presidential influence within the Republican Party, Trump-endorsed political newcomer Ed Gallrein defeated incumbent Representative Thomas Massie in Kentucky's Republican House primary. Massie's defeat highlighted the potent power of the administration's endorsement in intra-party challenges, reinforcing a broader "revenge tour" against dissenting Republicans ahead of the midterms. Seeking to purge independent voices from the party, Trump backed political newcomer Ed Gallrein in the Kentucky primary. The administration used the race as a warning shot to other Republicans. Gallrein's victory signals that the president's endorsement remains the ultimate kingmaker in conservative primaries, solidifying a lock step party platform ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. https://www.npr.org/sections/politics/

I quickly wanted to see the evolution of the printing of bibles. Though I will add as I do believe there to be many other interesting Bibles. I quickly put this one together. Check it out. Septuagint (LXX) ~250–132 BCE The first Bible recorded as an actual “canon” of sorts. Seventy-two Jewish scholars were commissioned by Ptolemy II Philadelphus to translate the Torah for the Library of Alexandria. The books are: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–4 Kingdoms (1–2 Samuel, 1–2 Kings), 1–2 Paralipomenon (Chronicles), 1–2 Esdras, Esther, Judith, Tobit, 1–4 Maccabees, Psalms, Odes (including the Prayer of Manasseh), Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Job, Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Psalms of Solomon, Hosea, Amos, Micah, Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Baruch, Lamentations, Letter of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. Peshitta ~100–200 AD The first Old and New Testament recorded in Aramaic. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, 1–2 Samuel, 1–2 Kings, 1–2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Ruth, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Tobit, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, Letter of Jeremiah, 1–2 Maccabees, Prayer of Manasseh, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts of the Apostles, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, and 1 John. Codex Sinaiticus ~330–360 AD The first and oldest COMPLETE copy of the New Testament. Written by what is believed to be three or four scribes. For 1,500 years, it was kept in Saint Catherine's Monastery at the base of Mount Sinai in Egypt. Genesis, Numbers, 1 Chronicles, 2 Esdras, Esther, Tobit, Judith, 1 Maccabees, 4 Maccabees, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Job, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, Hebrews, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Acts of the Apostles, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude, Revelation, Epistle of Barnabas, and The Shepherd of Hermas. Latin Vulgate ~382–405 AD Pope Damasus commissioned his secretary, a scholar named St. Jerome, to create a unified Latin translation of the Bible. The goal was to promote a universal doctrine. Jerome believed that the Old Testament should be translated from Hebrew, NOT the Septuagint. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–4 Kings, 1–2 Paralipomenon (1–2 Chronicles), 1 Esdrae (Ezra), 2 Esdrae (Nehemiah), Tobias (Tobit), Judith, Esther, 1–2 Maccabees, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiasticus, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Baruch, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts of the Apostles, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude, and Revelation. Note: The Prayer of Manasseh, 3 Esdras, and 4 Esdras were included until the Council of Trent. Ethiopian Bible ~350-450AD This is the world’s oldest living canon. It was translated originally from the Greek Septuagint and Syriac sources into Ge’ez. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles (Includes the Prayer of Manasseh)15. Jubilees (Unique to the Ethiopic canon), Enoch (Unique to the Ethiopic canon), 1 Ezra (Ezra-Nehemiah combined as one book), 2 Ezra (Greek Esdras), Ezra Sutuel (4 Ezra), Tobit, Judith, Esther, 1 Meqabyan (Ethiopian Maccabees; distinct from Greek Maccabees), 2 Meqabyan, 3 Meqabyan, Job, Psalms (Includes Psalm 151), Messale (Proverbs chapters 1–24), Tegsats / Tagsas (Proverbs chapters 25–31, "Reproof"), Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Isaiah, Jeremiah (Includes Baruch, Lamentations, Letter of Jeremiah, and 4 Baruch), Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Amos, Micah, Joel, Obadiah, Jonah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Josippon (Book of Josephas ben Gorion). Masoretic Text ~600–1000 AD Ancient Hebrew was written with consonants and preserved mainly through oral tradition until written vowels were introduced between the 6th and 10th centuries CE. That is when these books were first preserved in this specific way. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Samuel, Kings, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Psalms, Proverbs, Job, Song of Songs, Ruth, Lamentations, Ecclesiastes, Esther, Daniel, Ezra/Nehemiah, and 1–2 Chronicles. Wycliffe’s Bible ~1382–1384 John Wycliffe, an Oxford theologian, believed the Bible should be in a language the commoner could read. It was used by the “Lollards,” a movement that helped distribute these Bibles. This was the first wave of Reformers or “Protestants.” It was translated from the Latin Vulgate, not the original languages. The State, ruled by the Catholic Church, was so outraged that they dug up Wycliffe’s remains after he had died, burned them, and threw them into the River Swift. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–2 Kings (Samuel), 3–4 Kings (1–2 Kings), 1–2 Chronicles (Paralipomenon), Ezra (1st Esdras), Nehemiah (2nd Esdras), Tobit, Judith, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiasticus, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Baruch, Ezekiel, Daniel (including the Prayer of Azariah, Susanna, and Bel and the Dragon), Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, 1–2 Maccabees, 3–4 Esdras, Prayer of Manasseh, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, Laodiceans (the “lost” Pauline Epistle included in Wycliffe Bibles), 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, Acts, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude, and Revelation. The Luther Bible ~1534AD Luther coined the “Scripture Alone” context and translated the New testament in only 11 weeks from Greek to German while in hiding. He also moved the apocryphal books to stand alone between the Hebrew canonized Old Testament and the New testament. Critics accused Luther of altering text to fit his theology in Romans 3:28 he added the word “allein” (alone) to read “justified by faith alone” to cement HIS doctrine of justification. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 & 2 Samuel, 1 & 2 Kings, 1 & 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, Tobit, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch (including the Letter of Chronological (Jeremiah), 1 & 2 Maccabees, and Additions to Esther, Daniel, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts, Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Hebrews, James, Jude, and Revelation Geneva Bible ~1560 AD A landmark Protestant Bible. It was the first English Bible translated directly from the original Greek and Hebrew. This is the Bible William Shakespeare used and the Pilgrims who traveled on the Mayflower. Queen Mary I (“Bloody Mary”) banned English Bibles and prosecuted Protestant reformers, so hundreds of scholars fled to Geneva, Switzerland. It contains 1,560 margin notes. In 1640, the first edition without the Apocrypha was printed, and by 1644, the Apocrypha was officially forbidden by the Long Parliament. By 1826–1827, the printing and circulation of Bibles containing the Apocrypha stopped entirely. Because of the Masoretic canonization between 600–1000 AD, Puritans used that as proof that the Apocrypha was not divinely inspired, further distancing themselves from the Catholic Church. Douay-Rheims Bible ~1568–1610 The first authorized Catholic Bible translated into English. The availability of Protestant Bibles likely motivated its printing. It was translated from the Latin Vulgate instead of the original Hebrew and Greek. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Josue (Joshua), Judges, Ruth, 1 Kings (1 Samuel), 2 Kings (2 Samuel), 3 Kings (1 Kings), 4 Kings (2 Kings), 1 Paralipomenon (1 Chronicles), 2 Paralipomenon (2 Chronicles), 1 Esdras, 2 Esdras (Nehemiah), Tobias (Tobit), Judith, Esther (contains additions), 1 Maccabees, 2 Maccabees, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Solomon's Canticle of Canticles (Song of Solomon), Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiasticus (Sirach), Isaias (Isaiah), Jeremias (Jeremiah), Lamentations, Baruch (includes the Letter of Jeremiah), Ezechiel (Ezekiel), Daniel (includes Susanna and Bel and the Dragon), Osee (Hosea), Joel, Amos, Abdias (Obadiah), Jonas (Jonah), Micheas (Micah), Nahum, Habacuc (Habakkuk), Sophonias (Zephaniah), Aggeus (Haggai), Zacharias (Zechariah), Malachias (Malachi), Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts of the Apostles, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude, and Apocalypse (Revelation). Note: Omitted in the standard Challoner revision used today, the original 1610 printing contained three books as an appendix: 3 Esdras (1 Esdras in KJV), 4 Esdras (2 Esdras in KJV), and the Prayer of Manasses (Manasseh). King James Version (KJV) ~1611 AD King James commissioned this Bible because he was not fond of the many marginal notes in the Geneva Bible, which he felt undermined royal authority. Similar to the Geneva Bible, the original 1611 KJV included the Apocrypha. However, following the Protestant movement's shift after the Thirty Years' War, printers slowly stopped including these books. By 1885, the Apocrypha was officially dropped from most standard printings of the King James Version. The Books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1–2 Samuel, 1–2 Kings, 1–2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. The Apocrypha (included in original 1611): 1–2 Esdras, Tobit, Judith, Rest of Esther, Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiasticus (Sirach), Baruch (includes the Letter of Jeremiah), Prayer of Azariah, Susanna, Bel and the Dragon, Prayer of Manasseh, and 1–2 Maccabees. The New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, Acts of the Apostles, Romans, 1–2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1–2 Thessalonians, 1–2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1–2 Peter, 1–3 John, Jude, and Revelation.

The Three-Day Truce: In a move that shocked everyone, President Trump announced Friday that Russia and Ukraine have agreed to his request for a three-day ceasefire and a prisoner swap. He’s calling it the "beginning of the end" of the war, but we’ll see if this "vacation from violence" actually sticks. This isn't just a random weekend off; the timing is incredibly pointed. Saturday, May 9, is Victory Day in Russia, a massive holiday celebrating the defeat of Nazi Germany in WWII. President Trump personally mediated the deal with Presidents Putin and Zelenskyy, which includes a swap of 2,000 prisoners (1,000 from each side). While Zelenskyy is playing along and even ordered his army not to attack Moscow during their parade, he’s publicly putting the pressure on Trump to make sure Putin actually keeps his word. https://www.vpm.org/npr-news/npr-news/2026-05-09/trump-says-russia-and-ukraine-have-agreed-to-his-request-for-a-3-day-ceasefire The Virginia "No-Go" Map: Talk about a plot twist! The Virginia Supreme Court just threw out the Democrats' brand-new congressional map. Trump is already calling it a "huge win" for the GOP, leaving Democrats scrambling to figure out where their voters went. Democrats in Virginia tried to pull a fast one by passing a new congressional map via a constitutional amendment that voters approved in April. The goal? To flip the state's 6-5 Democratic edge into a 10-1 powerhouse. But the Virginia Supreme Court ruled 4-3 that the legislature broke the rules by pushing the amendment after early voting had already started for other elections. Now, the old maps are back, and Republicans are breathing a huge sigh of relief. https://www.vpm.org/generalassembly/2026-05-08/scova-redistricting-reactions-miyares-spanberger-kilgore-surovell-scott-trump Kash Patel’s "Fake News" Feud: FBI Director Kash Patel is in the hot seat after a spicy report from The Atlantic alleged some "erratic behavior" and missed briefings. Patel isn’t taking it lying down, though—he’s calling it "fake news" and threatening legal action against the publication. The drama at the FBI is reaching a fever pitch. The Atlantic dropped a bombshell report alleging Director Patel has a "drinking problem," is frequently MIA, and once even thought he was fired because he couldn't log into his computer. Patel isn't just denying it; he’s filed a $250 million defamation lawsuit, calling the story a "malicious hit piece" fueled by anonymous sources. He claims his leadership has actually made America safer, while Democrats are already calling for his resignation. https://www.reuters.com/world/fbi-director-kash-patel-sues-atlantic-court-records-show-2026-04-20/ Germany’s "Breakup" Notice: The U.S. is officially pulling 5,000 troops out of Germany. Apparently, things got awkward between Trump and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over the Iran war, leading to this very public "un-friending" of a major NATO ally. Relations with Germany have officially hit "it's complicated" status. President Trump is pulling 5,000 troops because German Chancellor Friedrich Merz had the audacity to say Iranian negotiators "humiliated" the U.S. in their recent war. Trump took it personally, calling Merz’s leadership "terrible". While the Pentagon says this just resets troop levels to pre-2022 numbers, allies worry it’s a sign that the U.S. is "ghosting" its European security commitments. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0729d374mxo The $1 Billion Ballroom: House Republicans are trying to slip a little something extra into the budget: $1 billion for security for President Trump’s White House ballroom. It’s part of a larger plan to fund ICE, but critics are already rolling their eyes at the "fiscally responsible" price tag for a party space. Budget season is always messy, but this year it’s literal. House Republicans are pushing for $1 billion specifically for security at President Trump’s White House ballroom. It’s tucked into a larger funding bill for ICE, but critics are calling it a "vanity project" disguised as national security. They’re arguing that spending a billion on a party space while claiming to be the party of "fiscal responsibility" is... a choice. Also, when looking into the donors it appears to be more about a data center under the ballroom, then the actual ballroom. https://www.npr.org/sections/politics/ A "May Day" Meltdown: Last week’s May Day protests were massive, with millions of Americans participating in an "economic blackout". While things have cooled slightly, the drama lingers as the government just barely reopened DHS after a record 76-day partial shutdown. Last week’s "May Day" wasn't just a spring festival—it was a massive "economic blackout" protest where millions of people stayed home to protest the government. This came right on the heels of a 76-day partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). While the doors are finally open again, the country is still feeling the effects of the longest shutdown in history, and tensions between activists and the administration are still at an all-time high. https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2026-05-01/what-is-may-day-and-why-are-activists-marking-it-with-protests-in-2026

As the school year winds down, it’s officially time to beef up the closet for a summer of non-stop action! Here is a roundup of the tried-and-true gear I’m grabbing to keep my boys cool, safe, and—most importantly—comfortable. My kids have been living in Crocs for the past year, but when my son spotted these stylish slip-ons, he totally lost his mind! They are the perfect trendy alternative for water play or just hanging out, and they definitely passed the "cool" test. https://go.shopmy.us/p-57153104 My boys are perpetually outside, so UPF clothing is a total game-changer. I found a two-pack of UPF shirts at H&M that are such a steal—only $15 per shirt, baby! Check them out here. https://go.shopmy.us/p-57156343 Since they’ve both sprouted up lately, new swim trunks were also a must. I’m sticking to my checklist: UPF protection? Check. Neon colors for safety? Double check. I’ve been buying these GAP shorts for about six years now. The quality is incredible—they last forever and then get passed down to the next kid. At just $8.00 right now, you seriously cannot beat them for fit and durability. https://go.shopmy.us/p-57154248 If you need a solid UPF sun hat, Target is the way to go. The "digital green" color is a massive hit with my boys. For our summer adventures, I’m done carrying everyone's water bottles! We’re using bottle carriers this year to give the kids some responsibility for their own hydration. I am incredibly picky about sunscreen because my son and I both deal with bad eczema. I used to love Sky and Sol, but after a recent reformulation, it started reacting poorly with sand (it basically turned into concrete on the skin!). I’ve officially switched to Grazly. It does have a heavy white cast, but we aren’t trying to impress anyone at the beach. It’s super moisturizing, doesn’t agitate our skin, and—best of all—it doesn’t sting our eyes when applied to the face.

I have read the Old and New Testaments roughly five times. During my studies, especially of the Old Testament, I realized how easy it is to become confused by the timeline because the books are not arranged in the order of their historical occurrence. I have put together this rough timeline to assist my next journey through the Scriptures. This time, I look forward to reading them in the order they supposedly took place. Old Testament Genesis Setting: Creation to ~1700 BCE. Authorship: Traditionally attributed to Moses following the Exodus (c. 1440–1400 BCE). However, 20th-century scholars often point to Babylonian influences, dating the final compilation closer to 597 BCE during the Exile. Insight: I suspect Moses authored the original, but it may have been poorly preserved and later rewritten by the exiled elite. Regarding the script, early Hebrew—a 22-letter alphabet found in cave "graffiti" dating back to 2040 BCE—suggests a developed writing system existed earlier than once thought. Exodus Setting: ~1279–1213 BCE (under Rameses II) or ~1446 BCE (Biblical/High Chronology). Insight: If 1446 BCE is correct, the Pharaoh may have been Amenhotep II, whose sudden halt in military activity aligns with the loss of an army at the Red Sea. Alternatively, under low chronology, Thutmose III would be the Pharaoh. Leviticus & Numbers Setting: ~1440–1400 BCE (Biblical) or ~1250–1200 BCE (Scholarly). Authorship: Traditionally Moses; scholars suggest a 6th–5th century BCE compilation. Deuteronomy Setting: ~1400 BCE. Authorship: Traditionally Moses. Scholars often categorize it as "Deuteronomistic History," likely compiled around 622 BCE during King Josiah’s reforms. Historical Books Joshua: Setting ~1400–1200 BCE. Traditionally written by Joshua; scholars suggest a later compilation around 622 BCE. Judges: Covers the era of tribal leaders (~1400–1050 BCE). Traditionally attributed to Samuel. Ruth: Set during the time of the Judges. Traditionally attributed to Samuel; scholars suggest it was an oral tradition recorded around 500–350 BCE. 1 & 2 Samuel: Setting ~1000 BCE. Attributed to Samuel, Nathan, and Gad. 1 & 2 Kings: Covers 970–586 BCE. A political history likely compiled by multiple authors, possibly including Jeremiah. 1 & 2 Chronicles: Covers 1000–586 BCE. Focuses on the religious history of Judah. Traditionally attributed to Ezra (c. 440 BCE), though the linguistic style suggests 400–350 BCE. Ezra & Nehemiah: Setting ~445–430 BCE. Nehemiah is generally accepted as the author of his own book, while Ezra's memoirs were likely compiled by 375 BCE. Esther: Setting ~470 BCE. Most scholars date its writing to ~300 BCE. Wisdom Literature & Psalms Job: Though set around 1750 BCE, it was likely not recorded in its final form until ~500 BCE. Psalms: Moses Era: Psalms 90–92, 94, 100 (~1440 BCE). Davidic Era: Psalms 2–73, 75–88, 93, 95–99, 101, 103–118, 135–145 (~1010–970 BCE). Exilic/Post-Exilic: Psalms 1, 74, 79, 89, 102, 106, 107, 119–134, 146–150 (~586–400 BCE). Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, & Song of Songs: Traditionally attributed to Solomon (10th century BCE), though scholars believe they were recorded or finalized between 700 and 300 BCE. The Prophets Isaiah: Chapters 1–39 (740–701 BCE); Chapters 40–66 (c. 538 BCE). Jeremiah & Lamentations: Considered highly historically grounded, set around 627–580 BCE. Ezekiel & Daniel: Exilic books set between 605 and 530 BCE. The Minor Prophets: Range from the early Assyrian period (Amos, Hosea, Jonah, Micah) to the post-exilic return (Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi). The Apocrypha 1 Esdras: Setting 620–444 BCE; often attributed to Ezra. 2 Esdras: Historically set around 557 BCE, but scholars agree it was written roughly 70–100 CE. Tobit: Set during the Assyrian Exile (721–700 BCE). Judith: Historically set between 600 and 500 BCE, during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar and the rebuilding of the Temple. Interestingly, the text refers to Nebuchadnezzar as the King of Assyria ruling from Nineveh, though he was historically the King of Babylon. Scholars believe it was written later, between 150 and 100 BCE, during the Maccabean period. Additions to Esther: Greek additions to the text set during the Persian Empire (486–465 BCE). Wisdom of Solomon: Wisdom literature traditionally attributed to King Solomon. Sirach (Ecclesiasticus): A book of ethical teachings written by Jesus ben Sira around 190 BCE. Baruch: Believed to have been written by Baruch, the scribe of Jeremiah, around 586 BCE. Letter of Jeremiah: Traditionally attributed to the prophet Jeremiah during the Exile. Additions to Daniel: Greek additions to the Book of Daniel, set around 586 BCE. Prayer of Manasseh: Set around 660 BCE, reflecting King Manasseh’s prayer of repentance during his reign. 1, 2, 3 & 4 Maccabees: Historical accounts of the Jewish revolt against the Seleucid Empire, covering 180–134 BCE. Psalm 151: In King David's time around 102-1000 BCE. Book of Enoch: The most time encompassing timeline. Please see below. Section Narrative Setting Book of Watchers Primordial/pre-Flood Book of Parables Primordial/pre-Flood Astronomical Book Primordial/pre-Flood Dream Visions Primordial through Maccabean Epistle of Enoch Primordial/pre-Flood 2 Enoch Primordial/pre-Flood 3 Enoch 1st–2nd century CE frame Jubilees: The entire book is presented as a revelation given to Moses around 1280 BCE. 1st Meqabyan: 1200-1000BCE 2nd Meqabyan: 1000-586 BCE 3rd Meqabyan: 538-200 BCE The New Testament Era The Gospels Matthew, Mark, Luke, & John: These record the life and ministry of Jesus, occurring between approximately 4 BCE and 30 AD. The Early Church & Epistles Acts of the Apostles: Written by Luke, this book covers the historical period from 30 to 62 AD, documenting the spread of the early Church. Pauline Epistles: (Romans, 1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, and Philemon). Written by the Apostle Paul between 45 and 67 AD. Hebrews: Believed to have been written in the mid-1st century AD; authorship is traditionally debated between Paul, Barnabas, or other early leaders. General Epistles & Revelation: (James, 1 & 2 Peter, 1, 2, & 3 John, Jude, and Revelation). These were written and set during the mid-to-late 1st century AD.

There were so many beautiful looks at the met gala. Black definitely dominated. So many outfits gave me inspiration in my own closet. Check out these affordable outfits based on Met Gala Looks. My number one favorite was Isla Johnston the pastel pants with a shimmer overlay. It inspired me to get this Pastel Jumpsuit. Under $40.00. https://go.shopmy.us/p-56532100 Next up Mrs. Misty Copeland. This look inspired me so much I had to rush to get a tulle skirt. Checkout the leopard print below. Faux Leather corset anyone? Link Below https://go.shopmy.us/p-56530647 Lastly this feather number on Alex Consani . Phenominal. I personally have never worn a feather outfit. Not once. I found this blazer feather dress on Nordstrom. Check the link, would you wear feathers for a cocktail party? https://go.shopmy.us/p-56537872

I don’t think I truly processed how isolating the last seven years of AuDHD parenting have been until a friend recently suggested a casual weekend dinner for our families. My mouth instinctively said, 'Oh, that sounds amazing!' while my soul withered. I knew we couldn't do it. Why did I lie? Probably because 'We can’t come because my son only eats nuggets while sitting in a fabric nest like a baby bird' feels like a weird vibe for a Sunday. See, my seven-year-old doesn’t just 'eat.' He rotates through one safe food a month, and he will only consume it in his 'Nest'—a specific, increasingly crusty chair in the TV room. He also considers forks and spoons to be offensive lifestyle choices. Doctors have given me all the 'proper' techniques to teach him manners, but after a three-day milk-only hunger strike when he was younger, we decided that a fed kid is better than a polite one. Since we have no family nearby, my husband and I are the permanent skeleton crew. Playdates at other people’s houses aren't 'fun'; they’re high-stakes recon missions. While other kids are playing with blocks, mine is trying to dismantle the toaster, 'analyze' the cat, or climb the bookshelf like a mountain goat. Something as simple as a dinner invite—meant to cultivate a deeper connection—now feels like a debt I can’t afford to pay. Even birthday parties are a gauntlet. Without a rigid schedule, my son spirals, leaving other kids confused and us feeling like outsiders. I spend the 'party' following him around like a shadow, while the other parents get to actually finish a sentence. I want that connection, I really do, but it could cost the safety of my son or the other children. After two years of ABA therapy, we finally hit the milestone of first grade. Even with an IEP as thick as a phone book, I’m still perpetually braced for The Call. You know the one—the ‘unwanted behavior’ update that makes your heart sink. Between the early pickups because of meltdowns, the refusal to work with teachers he hasn’t 'vetted' yet, and the absolute chaos that ensues if a substitute teacher dares to show up, my professional reliability is basically nonexistent. I’m not just a parent; I’m a high-alert rapid-response team. Don't get me wrong—there are a million beautiful, brilliant things about my son that I wouldn't trade for anything. But I’m starting to realize how the daily grind of AuDHD life has reshaped my world. It’s hard to make 'small talk' with other parents about soccer practice when I’m mentally calculating the structural integrity of whatever object my son has set his sights on or checking my phone for school alerts. My child comes first, and his needs are a 24/7 marathon that looks nothing like the 'standard' parenting experience. It’s exhausting, it’s spectacular, and honestly its a lot. Can you relate?

This recipe is a nostalgic tribute to my mother. During my sophomore year, she would pick me up from 6:00 AM Bible study to drive my classmates and me to school. She never let us go hungry, often arriving with these muffins tucked into a wooden bowl and wrapped in cloth to keep them warm. While they may not be a 'health food,' they are certainly good for the soul. Ingredients All-Purpose Flour: 1 cup Whole Wheat Flour: 7/8 cup Brown Sugar: 1 cup (measured loosely, not packed) Baking Soda: 1 tsp Fine Sea Salt: 1/2 tsp Whole Milk: 1 cup Egg: 1 large, room temperature Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, melted and slightly cooled Preparation Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk in the loose brown sugar. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate measuring pitcher, whisk the milk, melted butter, and egg. The "Lumpy" Method: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a fork, gently fold the mixture together until just incorporated. Do not overmix; the secret to the perfect crumb is a lumpy, slightly under-mixed batter. Portion: Evenly distribute the batter among the 12 muffin cavities. (I over filled them and only got 11 lol) Bake: Bake for 15 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Chef’s Notes Flour Substitutions: For a lighter texture, you may substitute the whole wheat flour for an additional cup of all-purpose flour. Variations: Mini Muffins: Bake at 400°F for 5–8 minutes. Jumbo Muffins: Bake at 325°F for approximately 30 minutes.

1. The Shutdown is FINALLY Over (Sort of...) Okay so after a wild 76 days — yes, SEVENTY-SIX — Congress finally got its act together and passed a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. FEMA and TSA are back up and running, so that's something. BUT — and this is a big but — ICE and Customs and Border Protection got left completely out of the funding deal. Shocker, right? Yeah, that's still a whole mess between the parties. Trump signs bipartisan bill ending longest-ever shutdown of DHS — The Guardian 2. James Comey and... Seashells?? You genuinely cannot make this stuff up. Former FBI Director James Comey has been indicted — again — and this time it's over a social media post of seashells. Yes, seashells. Prosecutors are saying the shells were arranged to spell out "8647," which they're calling a coded threat against President Trump (the 47th president), using "86" — slang for taking someone out. Comey's team, obviously, is not having it. This is either the most elaborate political conspiracy or the most unhinged prosecution of the year — maybe both. James Comey charged with Trump threat in 8647 seashell post — CNBC 3. Someone Actually Tried to Storm the Correspondents' Dinner So the White House Correspondents' Dinner weekend — already a big deal — got absolutely chaotic when a 31-year-old school tutor named Call Thomas Allen showed up to the Washington Hilton armed with a shotgun AND a pistol. He charged a security checkpoint, Secret Service shot at him, and thankfully he never got off a shot himself. He's now in federal detention. The whole thing is... a lot. Suspect in White House Correspondents' Dinner Shooting Charged — Texas Border Business 4. Middle East, Gas Prices, Whisky, and King Charles — Yes, All in One The U.S.-Israel-Iran situation is still very much ongoing, and the ripple effects are everywhere. Gas prices are hitting $6 in parts of California (painful), and Trump is pushing hard to wrap things up partly to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. On the energy front, he just greenlit a massive new pipeline from Canada — they're calling it "Keystone Light" — that'll move 550,000 barrels of oil a day. Oh, and in the same week, he floated pulling U.S. troops from Germany AND dropped tariffs on Scottish whisky after a visit from King Charles. Busy week. Trump gives go-ahead to major new Canada-US oil pipeline — The Boston Globe 5. Supreme Court Just Redrew the Map — Literally In a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court declared Louisiana's congressional map an unconstitutional racial gerrymander. The fallout was immediate — House primaries in Louisiana got suspended — and experts are already saying this could lead to the biggest drop in Black congressional representation we've ever seen. Big, big decision that's going to have lasting consequences. The Nicole Sandler Show: SCOTUS Gutting the Voting Rights Act — The Nicole Sandler Show

Mother’s Day is creeping up, and let’s be real: finding a gift she’ll actually use (and not just tuck away in a "thanks honey" drawer) is a struggle. But don't panic! I’ve curated the ultimate gift guide for every mom in your life—friends, sisters, or the matriarch herself. The best part? Everything is under $50. We’re ballin’ on a budget and securing that "Favorite Child" title. Let’s dive in! 📚 The Chic Coffee Table Finds Physical books are having a major comeback. These vibrant, hardcover coffee table books are basically home decor in disguise. Perfect for the mom who loves a pop of color and a sophisticated vibe. https://go.shopmy.us/p-55211586 https://go.shopmy.us/p-55211631 https://go.shopmy.us/p-55211853 🎒 The "Do-It-All" Cooler Backpack For the mom who is constantly on the move—field trips, soccer games, or beach days—this cooler backpack is a total game-changer. It’s so sleek and handy, I honestly don’t even go to church without packing a lunch in it. https://go.shopmy.us/p-55212011 💤 The Ultimate Beauty Sleep If she’s still sleeping on cotton, it’s time for an intervention! Snag this luxury silk pillowcase for under $50 with the Bed Bath & Beyond 20% discount. It’s pure luxury for her skin and hair—can you even believe that price?! https://go.shopmy.us/p-55212299 💄 The Clean Beauty GOAT RMS Beauty is the undisputed Greatest Of All Time for clean makeup. This stuff stays put all day—sweat-proof and mother-proof. These eyeshadows are the perfect "gateway" gift to upgrade her beauty routine. 🐦 The Aesthetic Birdfeeder There is something so peaceful about sipping coffee and bird-watching. This Anthropologie feeder is so stunning, I’d hang it up even if the birds never showed. It comes in four colors and is, quite frankly, too cute for words. https://share.google/yK6kn5eEFv8jL9zRG 🌸 Everlasting Blooms Forget flowers that wilt in three days. These wooden flowers are a refined, gorgeous alternative to the Lego versions. Plus, the fact that you spent the time putting them together? That’s instant brownie points. https://go.shopmy.us/p-55213209 🌿 The "Immortal" Houseplant If your mom is famous for having a "black thumb" despite her best efforts, listen up! You aren't just sending this beautiful shrub off to its doom. It comes in a self-watering pot, thrives in low light, and is 100% pet-friendly. She literally cannot kill this thing. It’s destined to be her new BFF, and the pot colors? Absolute perfection. 🥕 The Garden-to-Table Experience For the mom who actually knows her way around a trowel (or wants to learn!), this Garden-to-Table seed bank is such a blast. It’s packed with variety and all the insider info she needs to start her own backyard harvest. It's the gift that keeps on growing! https://go.shopmy.us/p-55213645

So, after church today, I fell straight into a history rabbit hole! I totally could have just Googled someone else’s timeline, but I had time. I decided to make my own. So cute, right? This isn't every religion ever—just the ones I had time to deep-dive into today. Love that for me! This was basically my Sunday afternoon entertainment, so if you’re a history buff and see something that needs a tweak, please comment! The Ancients (Where it all began) Indus Valley (~7000 BCE – 1500 BCE): This one is a classic. It was tucked away in South Asia, mostly covering what we now know as Pakistan and Northwest India. Neolithic habitation, farming and rituals dated as far back as ~7000 BCE. Check out this article. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/history/indus-valley-civilization-begins-south-asia Sumerian- Babylonian-Hellenized Religion (~4000 BCE – 100 AD): Welcome to the "Cradle of Civilization!" This was located in Southern Mesopotamia, or modern-day Southern Iraq. Sumerian ~4000BCE-1750BCE absorbed into Babylonian until 482BCE when it became a Hellenized religion until around 100AD. So fascinating how who ever ruled the area, the religions would change too. Maybe that had more to do with who was actually writing history than what the people were actually practicing... Just a thought. Check out this article. https://archive.org/details/religioninancien0000bott/page/n5/mode/2up Ancient Egyptian (~3750 BCE – 100 AD): Everyone knows the Nile, but did you know the Egyptian Empire reached way further? At its peak, it stretched into Sudan, Israel, Jordan, and even as far west as the Libyan desert! Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/ancient-Egyptian-religion Canaanite Religion (~3000 BCE – 100 AD): Think of this as the "land bridge" between Egypt and Mesopotamia. Today, these ancient sites are spread across Israel, Palestine, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria. Check out this article. https://people.brandonu.ca/nollk/canaanite-religion/#:~:text=ANCIENT%20SOURCES.,%E2%80%9D%20and%20%E2%80%9CReference%20works.%E2%80%9D The Rigveda-Brahmanism (~1500 BCE – 200 BCE): This is the heart of the "Land of Seven Rivers." It covered Pakistan, Northwest India, and even parts of Afghanistan. Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Vedic-religion Celtic Paganism (~800 BCE – 1100 AD): Started in Central Europe (800–500 BCE) before hitting its "Golden Age" in France (450 BCE). Then around 500 BCE, tribes spread out to settle the British Isles, Spain, and even Northern Italy. By the 11th Century Margaret of Scotland led reforms in favor of Roman Catholicism. In the 18th-20th century there has been a New Age revival of this religion. Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Celtic-religion Zoroastrianism (~1500 BCE – 651 AD): The spiritual powerhouse of Ancient Persia (modern-day Iran) and Central Asia. Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Zoroastrianism The Living Traditions Judaism (~2000 BCE – Current): Traces back 4,000 years ago to Abraham moving from Mesopotamia to Canaan. Jerusalem became the HQ around 1000 BCE under Kings David and Solomon. Big shifts happened with the Assyrian & Babylonian Exiles (722 & 586 BCE). Judaism was sent to communities in Egypt and Greece (334 BCE – 1st Century BCE). Followed by the Roman Destruction (70 – 135 CE) which pushed the them into Europe and North Africa. Jewish life hit the Caribbean in the 1490s, Brazil in the 1630s, and finally North America in 1584 (Joachim Gans)and 1654 (the first official congregation in New Amsterdam). Check this article out. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Judaism Hinduism (~200 BCE – Current): (1st–10th Century CE) Merchants and priests took the faith into Southeast Asia (think Angkor Wat!). Large communities formed in Africa, the Caribbean (Guyana/Trinidad), and Fiji. (1800s–1900s) A global interest in yoga and professional migration brought the tradition to the US, UK, and Australia. (1960s–Present): Check this article out. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hinduism Atheism (~500 BCE – Current): Started with the Cārvāka school in India and Greek thinkers like Democritus. The Enlightenment (17th–18th Century) challenged church authority, followed by the 19th-century scientific explosion (Darwin!). By the 20th-century political shifts and 21st-century "New Atheism" pushed it into the global spotlight. Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/atheism Christianity (~30AD- Current): Christianity originated in the 1st century AD within the Roman province of Judea, specifically in and around Jerusalem. It began as a messianic movement within Judaism based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. Following Jesus' death (30–33 AD), his disciples—most notably Paul the Apostle—traveled extensively along Roman roads to establish communities in Antioch, Greece, Asia Minor, and Rome. After centuries of periodic persecution, Emperor Constantine legalized Christianity with the Edict of Milan (313 AD). By 380 AD, under Emperor Theodosius I, it became the official state religion of the Roman Empire, utilizing the empire's vast infrastructure to expand. Armenia became the first nation to officially adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD, followed soon after by Aksum (modern Ethiopia/Eritrea) and Georgia. From the 15th century onward, European powers (Spain, Portugal, Britain, and France) carried Christianity to the Americas, Africa, and Oceania through colonization and extensive missionary activity. Check this article out. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Christianity Muslim (~610AD- Current): Islam originated in the early 7th century AD in Mecca, located in the Hejaz region of the western Arabian Peninsula (modern-day Saudi Arabia). Arab forces conquered the Levant, Egypt, and the Sassanid (Persian) Empire.(661–750 AD). Ruling from Damascus, this dynasty expanded the empire's borders from Spain in the west to the Indus Valley (modern Pakistan) in the east. Muslim merchants traveling across the Sahara Desert brought Islam to West Africa, while seafaring traders established communities in East Africa and along the Silk Road. During the Islamic Golden Age (750–1258 AD), cities like Baghdad became global hubs for science and philosophy, attracting diverse populations and further embedding Islamic culture across Afro-Eurasia. Today, Islam is the world's fastest-growing major religion, with its largest population in Indonesia. Check out this article. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Islam Buddhism( ~250BCE -Current):Buddhism originated in northeastern India (and modern-day Nepal) between the 6th and 4th centuries BCE. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, a prince who renounced his royal life to seek an end to human suffering and eventually became known as the Buddha ("The Awakened One") after achieving enlightenment under a Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. Check this article out. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Buddhism Sikhism( ~1469AD -Current): Sikhism originated in the late 15th century in the Punjab region of South Asia, an area now divided between modern-day India and Pakistan. It was founded by Guru Nanak. Under Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikh Empire established an independent state centered in the Punjab that included Kashmir, Ladakh, and Peshawar. IN 1947 Partition of India caused a massive displacement of Sikhs from West Punjab to India and abroad. Later, in the 1960s and 70s, many migrated to the West for better economic opportunities. Check this article out. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Sikhism

Instead of begging for crowded amusement parks, my "adventure boys" live for the hidden gems! My sons much prefer scouting out off-the-beaten-path locations. If you're planning a Texas trip and aren't a fan of the sweltering heat, I highly recommend visiting between March and May or September and November. Our latest discovery? Krause Springs, tucked away in the beautiful Texas Hill Country between Austin and San Antonio. Whether you’re a camper or just looking for a day trip, this place is a must-visit. I personally recommend staying for at least a weekend to soak it all in! Day Passes: $11.00 (Ages 12+), $6.00 (Ages 4-11), and free for the tiny explorers under age 4. You’re welcomed by a serene wind chime garden, with hammocks and a winding path guiding you through a thoughtfully designed Texas garden. You are then brought to a beautiful and clean spring-fed pool equipped with a jumping board. For those who prefer a “nature-lite” experience, this is a great place to set up for the day. The pool is surrounded by covered picnic tables and grill stations, perfect for a full day of relaxing in the shade. Follow the steps down to a breathtaking lagoon. Even if rope swings and waterfalls aren't your speed, the surrounding rock formations and massive Cypress trees (check out those iconic "knees"!) are stunning enough to take your breath away. If you make a weekend of it, be sure to cruise the scenic roads nearby: -Fredericksburg (1-hour drive): A charming, walkable German town full of delicious eats, wine tastings, and local boutiques. -Austin (54-minute drive): Only a short drive away! Dive into the "Keep Austin Weird" vibe with one-of-a-kind shops, museums, and a dip in Barton Springs at Zilker Park. Things to Bring: Stanley back pack cooler https://amzn.to/4cQy8Kk Owala free sip water bottle https://amzn.to/4ety7Ny Hammock floaties https://amzn.to/4eqgiir Tallow Sunscreen https://amzn.to/4dUO7bm