to you. Some aren't saying Merry Christmas anymore. I do. To everyone. I know that my Muslim friends and Jewish friends do not care if I tell them Merry Christmas. They say it right back. It doesn't lessen their faiths. It doesn't increase my own. But it certainly brightens my day. 'Tis the season - that's all. So a BIG whopping Merry Christmas to you!
The family 'stuff' ended Saturday afternoon. A week of jam-packed with food, fun and merriment. Emphasis on the food part. It's no wonder that after January 1st all the work out equipment goes on sale & people are at the gym in hordes. I do think I behaved myself rather well though - food-wise at least. I did taste everything, of course, but smaller quantities helps enormously. My downfall? Fudge. I made 4 batches this year. I gave 95% of it away. So I got to eat the edges and I kept a small container for myself. The edges aren't even gone yet. I'd best put that container in the freezer. Maybe I will forget it until summer and have a nice treat later... oh who am I trying to kid?
The kids are still playing with all their new toys - they haven't lost their glimmer yet. Most of these are from other family members though. H came up with a plan last Christmas - to try to keep the focus on Christ. The kids get 3 gifts. After all, Jesus only got 3 gifts (gold, frankincense & myrrh). Why should they get more than Jesus Christ our Lord & Savior? (A family member pointed out that gold is worth a bit more than the items we give. But kids go for quantity not quality... we'll deal with that issue when they're old enough to think of it on their own!) We do pack a few different items together. I started a new 'tradition' this year that everyone gets undies. So 1 toy was wrapped with a package of undies. This will be an annual thing - and truly I can't wait until the kids are teenagers and then adults - and complain jokingly about Mom's underwear gift. It'll be GREAT! Hahahaha! Come ON, who CAN'T use an annual infusion of new undies in the drawer???
There's always been the tradition of a Christmas tree ornament. Not just 'any' ornament will do. A nice one. One they'll be proud to hang on the tree when they're 50. I don't want my kids having 'naked' Christmas trees when they no longer live at my house. I've witnessed friends and other family members go through this sad state of affairs. Granted when I got married, the tree was LOADED - with mostly my ornaments. But it was fun to tell all the stories that went with each one to H. I've got a little Eiffel Tower that I picked up in Paris, a little red double-decker bus from London, trolley car from San Francisco, a taxi from New York, mini gavel from the Supreme Court building in Washington D.C. and the list goes on and on and on and on. And each has a story behind it. So even though my kids will have a bunch of ornaments from Mom & Dad - they are all marked with the year - and 'With Love'. They'll never have a 'naked' tree. And they're all so pretty that I should have bought duplicate ones for H & I so that when the kids take theirs, we can still have those pretty ones on our tree. Next year I will.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
Bowling - an all but forgotten fun-fest
Last Saturday we took the kids bowling...for the 1st time. Although I will try to attempt to put into words the great fun we had. No matter how hard I try, it'll still be lacking that... je ne sais cois.
Now K3 didn't get to try out this all-american past time. Heck, they don't even have shoes for the poor kid. But Ks 1 & 2 had a complete blast...OK, so did H and myself. I cannot lie. A complete afterthought - H asks me while walking into the place 'Do you remember how to keep score?' I look ahead and say 'Well, I really don't think it matters because, well, take a look.' Way cool. I also cannot tell you how many years it has been since I even set foot in a bowling alley. So the cool computerized lanes with the automatic bumpers that pop up for the kiddies completely rock.
So H and I went first so that the kids can see the point of the whole thing. After 3 frames I only had 4 pins down. 4. I completely stunk up the joint. And my kids were kicking my butt. BADLY. How embarrasing is THAT? So embarrasing that it was funny. So K2's bowling skills are great. The 2 handed roll down the lane - standing at the line watching it go - seeing if it'll even make it down there - checking to see if we're watching - asking 'do ya think it'll make it Mom?' - only to knock down 8 pins - proceeded by an arm pump in the air...
AND
a wiggle of his rear.
WHERE did he get this from? I have no clue. But it was darn cute & completely hysterical! So the next ball he rolls - and of course the 8 was a smaller split - we're thinking 'no way.' - and the ball does make it down there eventually - and then proceeds to knock BOTH pins down for a spare. The kid is so lucky I should hang him from my waist like those old colored rabbits feet when I was a kid. This wasn't the only spare the kid got. And it wasn't the only split the kid managed to revive.
K1 saw the trophies in the window case and wondered where ours was. I'd say that's typical for her age. K1 also thought she was cool that she could bowl more like Mom & Dad.
The most consistant bowler? K2. Best style? K2. The most improved? Me. Seriously. I ended up with 4 spares and a strike. All coming when needed most, of course. The last frame I needed a stike to win by 1 pin, and I got it. And was that one fun to rub in a bit. Come on - after only having 4 pins down in the first 3 frames and I win? Even a saint would have to gloat a bit on THAT one!
So be prepared to hear some additional bowling stories this winter - we had such great fun we decided it'd have to be a more regular occurance.
Now K3 didn't get to try out this all-american past time. Heck, they don't even have shoes for the poor kid. But Ks 1 & 2 had a complete blast...OK, so did H and myself. I cannot lie. A complete afterthought - H asks me while walking into the place 'Do you remember how to keep score?' I look ahead and say 'Well, I really don't think it matters because, well, take a look.' Way cool. I also cannot tell you how many years it has been since I even set foot in a bowling alley. So the cool computerized lanes with the automatic bumpers that pop up for the kiddies completely rock.
So H and I went first so that the kids can see the point of the whole thing. After 3 frames I only had 4 pins down. 4. I completely stunk up the joint. And my kids were kicking my butt. BADLY. How embarrasing is THAT? So embarrasing that it was funny. So K2's bowling skills are great. The 2 handed roll down the lane - standing at the line watching it go - seeing if it'll even make it down there - checking to see if we're watching - asking 'do ya think it'll make it Mom?' - only to knock down 8 pins - proceeded by an arm pump in the air...
AND
a wiggle of his rear.
WHERE did he get this from? I have no clue. But it was darn cute & completely hysterical! So the next ball he rolls - and of course the 8 was a smaller split - we're thinking 'no way.' - and the ball does make it down there eventually - and then proceeds to knock BOTH pins down for a spare. The kid is so lucky I should hang him from my waist like those old colored rabbits feet when I was a kid. This wasn't the only spare the kid got. And it wasn't the only split the kid managed to revive.
K1 saw the trophies in the window case and wondered where ours was. I'd say that's typical for her age. K1 also thought she was cool that she could bowl more like Mom & Dad.
The most consistant bowler? K2. Best style? K2. The most improved? Me. Seriously. I ended up with 4 spares and a strike. All coming when needed most, of course. The last frame I needed a stike to win by 1 pin, and I got it. And was that one fun to rub in a bit. Come on - after only having 4 pins down in the first 3 frames and I win? Even a saint would have to gloat a bit on THAT one!
So be prepared to hear some additional bowling stories this winter - we had such great fun we decided it'd have to be a more regular occurance.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
To bail or not to bail
That is the question. You know? I am really sick and tired of paying for rich people's mistakes. Any company Uncle Sam is looking to bail out is run by some rather rich people. Why are they rich? They gave themselves raises for making bad decisions, and now, oops, the worker bees who are filing bankrupty and foreclosing left and right are supposed to bail their butts out. Something stinks in Denmark.
Let's take the auto industry since that is currently 'up' for discussion in D.C. For years they don't listen when people say they want fuel efficiency. Nope, let's make more huge earth killing SUVs like the Hummer! They refuse to see the writing on the wall - and they have entire departments that exist to see the writing on those walls. Can those people, then can the ones who wouldn't listen to those people.
We currently see ads from the 'Big 3' touting that this vehicle (the size of a toothpick) gets a big whopping 25 mpg! Well color me purple. Let's see, we have an 8 year old Chevy Impala (Suzie Q). That's considered a mid-size car. While we took our road trip in September we clocked our gas mileage out of curiosity. We were going about 80 through NE, and in that car we got a little over 31. Why would I drive a toothpick that ONLY gets 25? Why does that toothpick only get 25 anyway? This makes no sense. The new toothpick cars are 8 years newer, definitely smaller and get LESS gas mileage. Hmmmmmmm. Who was the Einstein there? Not only that, but I'm sure Suzie Q's mileage would improve if I weren't going 80 - which I rarely do.
These big 3 ship the same cars we buy to Europe. International trade. Great. Cool. We're all for that. Here's the kicker. The cars shipped overseas get a MINIMUM of 40 mpg, because that is the min. requirement there. But they get 25 here? What is the deal with THAT? So when the big 3 whine to Congress about higher fuel efficiency standards: that they can't be met, it'd strain & bankrupt the company, blah, blah, blah. Don't believe their bull. They've bankrupted themselves. If they'd have sold the 40 mpg and better cars here - they would not be in the financial situation they are in now.
The problem is that the people who suffer from not bailing out are average people like me - just going to work & doing their jobs. How do you punish the upper management for making piss-poor decisions, and try to make sure that those under them don't suffer the consequences? This brings me to my next gripe.
Pay.
These top 'dogs' (Presidents, VPs, CEOs, CFOs & on & on & for Pete's sake, pick a title) make some large cash annually. That's an understatement. In fact their amounts are so large that I deem them obscene. Truly and REALLY obscene. I read of 1 man who was CFO for 8 weeks, the co. filed bankrupty and his 'golden parachute' was a $17 MILLION dollar settlement. This I really and truly do not understand. If a company if filing bankruptcy, they don't have money. More to the point, they are severely in debt. So why, why, why, why, are they paying a guy $17 million dollars that worked there for 8 weeks? If you know this answer, please educate me because this doesn't work in my world. For one, I really don't think 'golden parachute' clauses should be legal. And if you can't legally condemn the practice, then cap the darn thing at say $1 million & have it annually increase with inflation. Because I know A LOT of people who'd be OK with $1 million. If they can't be unemployed and be OK with $1 million in their pockets, they really need a refresher course in budgeting - which is probably the reason they're out the door on their rears anyway - but I digress.
Let's get back to the pay issue. It has become completely insane over the last 15-20 years. The financial gap between the upper management and the worker bees is so large that there aren't words to describe it. So this is my solution. Yes I have one - I'm not saying it'd work, or be perfect. But don't you think SOMETHING needs to start happening with it? It's a starting point, that's all. OK, here goes. I think that you take a company on an individual basis (no outside comparisons). Look at the lowest paid person on staff & what their hourly rate is. The top dog is only able to make a certain %age over that - like 8 times. Take out benefit packages. Let's say your lowest paid person gets $10/hr. The top dog can only make $80/hr. I'd say that the top dog really doesn't do 8 times the work - but leadership has its priviledges and impact. I think that's reasonable. I think that's rational. So I now wonder how much money the AIGs, Ford, GMs & Chryslers of the world would save if this was applied? Oh, and I forgot one more thing. No more insane stock options. You want stock? You buy it, just like everyone else buddy. That leads me to benefit packages.
I'm not going to harp on time off - I think this country is WAY behind the world in that department and that is a story for another day. But seriously, the stock plans these 'top dogs' have access to? Yes, they should be GONE. Cash in your stuff now & that's it. Like I said, you want stock, you buy it, just like every other Tom, Dick & Harry on 'main street'. Health insurance, it should be available to every employee. Full time or part time. But let's stay current with the trends of the country. There should be a co-pay. There should be a deductible. Let's be responsible here.
You wanna talk welfare? I can tell you, without a doubt, that these bail out packages are the biggest welfare programs this country has ever seen... and it is all going to rich people. Would you want to tell those homeless kids they can't eat or be warm tonight or all winter (it is a heatwave of -2 here, during the day) because we had to go bail out the 'big 3' whose CEOs and CFOs make enough money in a year to fund all shelters in the US for a few years? (And no, I don't care that they've agreed to work in 2009 for a dollar. Their benefit package is still more than enough to keep their current lifestyle secure - don't kid yourself.)
What about the bail out already passed? Well, it's being handled wrong - it's backwards. You want it to support the housing market? Give the $ to the people who are having difficulty with their mortgages, not to the banks. The struggling people would give it to the banks to keep their home. The home stays filled, less homeless people, property values aren't tanking entire neighborhoods. That is a solution. What we've got is crap. $750 billion dollar crap. What a crock.
At any rate - my vote on the bail out is a big NO. Auto, or anything else. No More. Businesses need to succeed or fail on their own. I know a lot of people who own their own companies. They'd be thrilled to have a check from Uncle Sam - but that's not how it works. And you know what? That's not how it's SUPPOSED to work either. Let them fail. Let new ones start & flourish & bring greater success than the current ones have ever seen.
A bail out is a band-aid. Not a fix.
Ebb & tide. Ride it out. Let it be.
Let's take the auto industry since that is currently 'up' for discussion in D.C. For years they don't listen when people say they want fuel efficiency. Nope, let's make more huge earth killing SUVs like the Hummer! They refuse to see the writing on the wall - and they have entire departments that exist to see the writing on those walls. Can those people, then can the ones who wouldn't listen to those people.
We currently see ads from the 'Big 3' touting that this vehicle (the size of a toothpick) gets a big whopping 25 mpg! Well color me purple. Let's see, we have an 8 year old Chevy Impala (Suzie Q). That's considered a mid-size car. While we took our road trip in September we clocked our gas mileage out of curiosity. We were going about 80 through NE, and in that car we got a little over 31. Why would I drive a toothpick that ONLY gets 25? Why does that toothpick only get 25 anyway? This makes no sense. The new toothpick cars are 8 years newer, definitely smaller and get LESS gas mileage. Hmmmmmmm. Who was the Einstein there? Not only that, but I'm sure Suzie Q's mileage would improve if I weren't going 80 - which I rarely do.
These big 3 ship the same cars we buy to Europe. International trade. Great. Cool. We're all for that. Here's the kicker. The cars shipped overseas get a MINIMUM of 40 mpg, because that is the min. requirement there. But they get 25 here? What is the deal with THAT? So when the big 3 whine to Congress about higher fuel efficiency standards: that they can't be met, it'd strain & bankrupt the company, blah, blah, blah. Don't believe their bull. They've bankrupted themselves. If they'd have sold the 40 mpg and better cars here - they would not be in the financial situation they are in now.
The problem is that the people who suffer from not bailing out are average people like me - just going to work & doing their jobs. How do you punish the upper management for making piss-poor decisions, and try to make sure that those under them don't suffer the consequences? This brings me to my next gripe.
Pay.
These top 'dogs' (Presidents, VPs, CEOs, CFOs & on & on & for Pete's sake, pick a title) make some large cash annually. That's an understatement. In fact their amounts are so large that I deem them obscene. Truly and REALLY obscene. I read of 1 man who was CFO for 8 weeks, the co. filed bankrupty and his 'golden parachute' was a $17 MILLION dollar settlement. This I really and truly do not understand. If a company if filing bankruptcy, they don't have money. More to the point, they are severely in debt. So why, why, why, why, are they paying a guy $17 million dollars that worked there for 8 weeks? If you know this answer, please educate me because this doesn't work in my world. For one, I really don't think 'golden parachute' clauses should be legal. And if you can't legally condemn the practice, then cap the darn thing at say $1 million & have it annually increase with inflation. Because I know A LOT of people who'd be OK with $1 million. If they can't be unemployed and be OK with $1 million in their pockets, they really need a refresher course in budgeting - which is probably the reason they're out the door on their rears anyway - but I digress.
Let's get back to the pay issue. It has become completely insane over the last 15-20 years. The financial gap between the upper management and the worker bees is so large that there aren't words to describe it. So this is my solution. Yes I have one - I'm not saying it'd work, or be perfect. But don't you think SOMETHING needs to start happening with it? It's a starting point, that's all. OK, here goes. I think that you take a company on an individual basis (no outside comparisons). Look at the lowest paid person on staff & what their hourly rate is. The top dog is only able to make a certain %age over that - like 8 times. Take out benefit packages. Let's say your lowest paid person gets $10/hr. The top dog can only make $80/hr. I'd say that the top dog really doesn't do 8 times the work - but leadership has its priviledges and impact. I think that's reasonable. I think that's rational. So I now wonder how much money the AIGs, Ford, GMs & Chryslers of the world would save if this was applied? Oh, and I forgot one more thing. No more insane stock options. You want stock? You buy it, just like everyone else buddy. That leads me to benefit packages.
I'm not going to harp on time off - I think this country is WAY behind the world in that department and that is a story for another day. But seriously, the stock plans these 'top dogs' have access to? Yes, they should be GONE. Cash in your stuff now & that's it. Like I said, you want stock, you buy it, just like every other Tom, Dick & Harry on 'main street'. Health insurance, it should be available to every employee. Full time or part time. But let's stay current with the trends of the country. There should be a co-pay. There should be a deductible. Let's be responsible here.
You wanna talk welfare? I can tell you, without a doubt, that these bail out packages are the biggest welfare programs this country has ever seen... and it is all going to rich people. Would you want to tell those homeless kids they can't eat or be warm tonight or all winter (it is a heatwave of -2 here, during the day) because we had to go bail out the 'big 3' whose CEOs and CFOs make enough money in a year to fund all shelters in the US for a few years? (And no, I don't care that they've agreed to work in 2009 for a dollar. Their benefit package is still more than enough to keep their current lifestyle secure - don't kid yourself.)
What about the bail out already passed? Well, it's being handled wrong - it's backwards. You want it to support the housing market? Give the $ to the people who are having difficulty with their mortgages, not to the banks. The struggling people would give it to the banks to keep their home. The home stays filled, less homeless people, property values aren't tanking entire neighborhoods. That is a solution. What we've got is crap. $750 billion dollar crap. What a crock.
At any rate - my vote on the bail out is a big NO. Auto, or anything else. No More. Businesses need to succeed or fail on their own. I know a lot of people who own their own companies. They'd be thrilled to have a check from Uncle Sam - but that's not how it works. And you know what? That's not how it's SUPPOSED to work either. Let them fail. Let new ones start & flourish & bring greater success than the current ones have ever seen.
A bail out is a band-aid. Not a fix.
Ebb & tide. Ride it out. Let it be.
Monday, December 8, 2008
I personally gave the economy a swift kick - will you?
Last Friday I shopped. A LOT. That was my 'job' for the day. H took the day off & kept the kiddos happy. I shopped - not even for Christmas...for myself (OK I did pick up a few items for Christmas.) It's literally been years since I've shopped for myself. It was SOOOOOO fun! I love stores where the amount you spent is less than the amount you 'saved'. For example I picked up a cute pair of dress pants at Banana Republic for $19.98 - regularly priced $89.99. Another blogger (The Cheap Chick) would be so proud! I found a gorgeous pair of Liz Claiborne black leather heeled boots for less than 1/3 of their original price. This was my special love find. I love those boots. I shall wear those boots... a LOT.
Sign of the times...
Unfortunately while on my power shopping spree, there are a few stores either closing or will close. Although wonderful deals for shoppers, I am sad to see them go. I liked those stores. I spent lots of money consistently at those stores over the years - for other people - seriously. So now I sit an wonder what will be left to shop at in another 6 months. Survival of the fittest - store style.
Sign of the times...
Unfortunately while on my power shopping spree, there are a few stores either closing or will close. Although wonderful deals for shoppers, I am sad to see them go. I liked those stores. I spent lots of money consistently at those stores over the years - for other people - seriously. So now I sit an wonder what will be left to shop at in another 6 months. Survival of the fittest - store style.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Huh
It's interesting how life works out. When K1 was 4, she had to go to the ER for the flu. Dehydrated due to vomiting that couldn't be stopped. 2 weeks before Christmas. Last week, K2 was admitted for 2 days. Croup and swelling of his vocal chords caused by a virus. Bronchial tubes got squished & the poor kid couldn't breathe. He was sent home with a nebulizer. All's well a week later - he's still got the tail end of the virus, but at least he's back to himself personality-wise.
So, now we'll wait a few years for Thanksgiving/Christmas time. This is when K3 will be 4. I'm thinking she'll be in the hospital for a broken bone. We have yet to be down that road yet - so that's my bet. I am also thinking I should start a pool and take bets! So, send your money with your bet and we'll see what happens!!
At least when K2 greets people he doesn't start by telling of his hospital woes. K1 had that kick for weeks. And since her stay was regarding puking, she has lots of detail to share...regardless if it was at a meal time or not. That was a fun time, getting her to quit that one. So now that K2 was in the hospital, and we talk about that, K1 has to go all into her hospital experience again... in FULL detail. Will this end?
ER staff completely rock. K2 had his blood taken 3 times, no tears or whining. Amazing. Chest x-rays - K2 stands there with a HUGE smile on his face (because they said they were taking his picture!) We really did have some fantastic staff. K2 still talks about the EMT who gave him the ride upstairs in the wheelchair... they were popping wheelies all the way. So my hospital gripe. Some people have no common sense what-so-ever. I realize that vitals need to be taken. Heck, if you don't do that, they don't get paid by insurance companies, right? K2s room had a window that went to the hall. As we all know, that hall light is bright. So we have a night nurse come in to check vitals at 2am and turns on the completely unnecessary room light. Well, when you have a small kid who hasn't been able to sleep much in 36 hours wouldn't you use what you've got? THANKFULLY K2 slept through the whole thing. Talk about patients becoming a task or just a chore that need to be completed. I think that care-givers forget that from time to time and all common sense, polite behavior and using the 'golden rule' fly out the window. Sad.
Now for some fun stuff. Anyone who knows me well, knows that when I sneeze, I sneeze many many times in a row. If I sneeze less than 3 times, that means I am getting sick, or am sick. But usually I sneeze a good 8-9 times if I start at all. (My high is 13 and I had breathing issues then.) So Tuesday, after I had started sneezing, K3 looks at me. She waits for a break. There was one... you know the kind where you know another sneeze is coming, you just have to wait for it to come down the pike? During the brief delay, the little stinker says "Bless You." I then had to sneeze again, one last time, and she said it again when I finally finished. It was so cute.
So, now we'll wait a few years for Thanksgiving/Christmas time. This is when K3 will be 4. I'm thinking she'll be in the hospital for a broken bone. We have yet to be down that road yet - so that's my bet. I am also thinking I should start a pool and take bets! So, send your money with your bet and we'll see what happens!!
At least when K2 greets people he doesn't start by telling of his hospital woes. K1 had that kick for weeks. And since her stay was regarding puking, she has lots of detail to share...regardless if it was at a meal time or not. That was a fun time, getting her to quit that one. So now that K2 was in the hospital, and we talk about that, K1 has to go all into her hospital experience again... in FULL detail. Will this end?
ER staff completely rock. K2 had his blood taken 3 times, no tears or whining. Amazing. Chest x-rays - K2 stands there with a HUGE smile on his face (because they said they were taking his picture!) We really did have some fantastic staff. K2 still talks about the EMT who gave him the ride upstairs in the wheelchair... they were popping wheelies all the way. So my hospital gripe. Some people have no common sense what-so-ever. I realize that vitals need to be taken. Heck, if you don't do that, they don't get paid by insurance companies, right? K2s room had a window that went to the hall. As we all know, that hall light is bright. So we have a night nurse come in to check vitals at 2am and turns on the completely unnecessary room light. Well, when you have a small kid who hasn't been able to sleep much in 36 hours wouldn't you use what you've got? THANKFULLY K2 slept through the whole thing. Talk about patients becoming a task or just a chore that need to be completed. I think that care-givers forget that from time to time and all common sense, polite behavior and using the 'golden rule' fly out the window. Sad.
Now for some fun stuff. Anyone who knows me well, knows that when I sneeze, I sneeze many many times in a row. If I sneeze less than 3 times, that means I am getting sick, or am sick. But usually I sneeze a good 8-9 times if I start at all. (My high is 13 and I had breathing issues then.) So Tuesday, after I had started sneezing, K3 looks at me. She waits for a break. There was one... you know the kind where you know another sneeze is coming, you just have to wait for it to come down the pike? During the brief delay, the little stinker says "Bless You." I then had to sneeze again, one last time, and she said it again when I finally finished. It was so cute.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
I figure
I figure an update is due. Just because the election is over doesn't mean I have nothing to say! Of course I most certainly do. 1st, an observation. Even though I've never been a George W. Bush fan, he's got an interesting position at this point in time. Lame Duck - in its extreme. How must it feel to be the top dog for almost 8 years and then *poof* nobody listens to you. Granted I wish this would have taken place years ago, but I'll certainly take it now. I think his case is the most severe of any President as his approval rating cannot get much lower. But Obama now has the E.F. Hutton syndrome. You recall the old commercial? "When E.F. Hutton talks...people listen." Well people are listening very closely. Yea-rah!
Obama's picks for cabinet positions has been interesting. On 1 hand I am very surprised because those chosen to this point really do not represent the change Obama campaigned on. BUT, his choices do reflect a great deal of knowledge & professionalism. I was just talking with H last night and we were both amazed that a Republican wasn't tapped for the Homeland Security post. Yea, there is always the token GOP member of the Dem cabinet on the DOD. But this would have been a great spot for another one.
So the newest issue with Obama is his vetting process for the highest ranking officials and the extreme level of detail involved. See CNN's article here. Frankly, if people are turned off by the amount of details of your past that is required to state, I really don't think you should be in the position anyway. It isn't like they're putting a press release out on it. They're checking it to make sure it doesn't become a press release later. To me, if you are opposed to this it just shows you have something to hide. Do we want people in those positions, the highest in the country, to be hiding unethical or potential illegal activity? They are supposed to be above that. This process helps to ensure that they are. Hey - what's wrong with expecting the 'best of the best' people in there? Nothing. So go put your big girl panties on and suck it up.
Obama's picks for cabinet positions has been interesting. On 1 hand I am very surprised because those chosen to this point really do not represent the change Obama campaigned on. BUT, his choices do reflect a great deal of knowledge & professionalism. I was just talking with H last night and we were both amazed that a Republican wasn't tapped for the Homeland Security post. Yea, there is always the token GOP member of the Dem cabinet on the DOD. But this would have been a great spot for another one.
So the newest issue with Obama is his vetting process for the highest ranking officials and the extreme level of detail involved. See CNN's article here. Frankly, if people are turned off by the amount of details of your past that is required to state, I really don't think you should be in the position anyway. It isn't like they're putting a press release out on it. They're checking it to make sure it doesn't become a press release later. To me, if you are opposed to this it just shows you have something to hide. Do we want people in those positions, the highest in the country, to be hiding unethical or potential illegal activity? They are supposed to be above that. This process helps to ensure that they are. Hey - what's wrong with expecting the 'best of the best' people in there? Nothing. So go put your big girl panties on and suck it up.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
There are times...
There are times in your life when things just automatically make your heart melt into a puddle. Yesterday was one of those days. K3 walks up to me and said "Wuv you." I didn't think I had heard her correctly, so I said "What?" And yes, she said "Wuv you." again, then gave me a nice big hug. Yep - heart melted all over the floor. Day made. Nothing can ruin that.
In church on Sunday there was a children's sermon. Ks 1 & 2 went up. OK, they ran up since they like to be the 1st ones there. So Pastor has the kids stand up & hold hands in a circle. "What do you see?" "Kids!" As a church we help each other within the church. Now turn around and still hold hands. "What do you see?" K2 was standing in front of the altar, so his answer was (nice & loud) "A CANDLE!" Not the answer Pastor was looking for...but come on dude, you should have known better than that! And yes, Pastor knew afterwards that he should have expected that one. The sermon point? As a church we are to be looking outward from the church and building strength in our community...something we in our church are sorely lacking, but it is steadily getting better with our increasingly dynamic youth groups.
D, the dog, is at the vet today having her teeth cleaned for the 1st time. She's almost 10. Brought her in, the assistant looks at her paper again..."She doesn't behave like she's 10." Nope. Not at all. Darn dog acts like a pup 25% of the time. You should see her play with the kids. She's a complete nut! Anyway, she's through the anesthesia and we can pick her up this afternoon. YEA! The house is too quiet without her around. Besides, it's garbage and recycle day - trucks are here and there's no barking. Too erie. What do garbage trucks have to do with barking? Well, as far as I can tell, she barks because the garbage trucks STEAL STUFF... our stuff. Never mind that we don't want it or that it may not even be coming to our house - just driving by. They are thieves just the same because they stop and steal other people's stuff. And also never mind the fact that they've been coming to our house once a week for over 9.5 years now. That's OVER 500 visits by crooks! Oh the horror! Do you know what is just as bad as garbage trucks? Busses. Yep. They take KIDS! Never mind that they also drop them off - they TOOK them! And they take K1 too, which, as we all know, is D's kid! I'm surprised D hasn't given herself a coronary from busses and garbage trucks over the years. They really do cause a great deal of stress in her life. 4 times a day on a school day is a lot of stress (6-12 grade bus & elementary bus pick up & drop off). And if the garbage day is also recycle day, than that's 4 more (2 trucks, 1 for each, BOTH directions). Tuesdays are bad news for D.
In church on Sunday there was a children's sermon. Ks 1 & 2 went up. OK, they ran up since they like to be the 1st ones there. So Pastor has the kids stand up & hold hands in a circle. "What do you see?" "Kids!" As a church we help each other within the church. Now turn around and still hold hands. "What do you see?" K2 was standing in front of the altar, so his answer was (nice & loud) "A CANDLE!" Not the answer Pastor was looking for...but come on dude, you should have known better than that! And yes, Pastor knew afterwards that he should have expected that one. The sermon point? As a church we are to be looking outward from the church and building strength in our community...something we in our church are sorely lacking, but it is steadily getting better with our increasingly dynamic youth groups.
D, the dog, is at the vet today having her teeth cleaned for the 1st time. She's almost 10. Brought her in, the assistant looks at her paper again..."She doesn't behave like she's 10." Nope. Not at all. Darn dog acts like a pup 25% of the time. You should see her play with the kids. She's a complete nut! Anyway, she's through the anesthesia and we can pick her up this afternoon. YEA! The house is too quiet without her around. Besides, it's garbage and recycle day - trucks are here and there's no barking. Too erie. What do garbage trucks have to do with barking? Well, as far as I can tell, she barks because the garbage trucks STEAL STUFF... our stuff. Never mind that we don't want it or that it may not even be coming to our house - just driving by. They are thieves just the same because they stop and steal other people's stuff. And also never mind the fact that they've been coming to our house once a week for over 9.5 years now. That's OVER 500 visits by crooks! Oh the horror! Do you know what is just as bad as garbage trucks? Busses. Yep. They take KIDS! Never mind that they also drop them off - they TOOK them! And they take K1 too, which, as we all know, is D's kid! I'm surprised D hasn't given herself a coronary from busses and garbage trucks over the years. They really do cause a great deal of stress in her life. 4 times a day on a school day is a lot of stress (6-12 grade bus & elementary bus pick up & drop off). And if the garbage day is also recycle day, than that's 4 more (2 trucks, 1 for each, BOTH directions). Tuesdays are bad news for D.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
WAHOOooooooo
Did you know that actual products can be advertised on television in the midst of shows - so that we don't have to see political candidates every 5 minutes? It is truly an amazing concept. I've never been so glad to see an ordinary commercial in my entire life. Whew.
So last night my quest for political nerdness was quenched... for the time being anyway. CNN had this completely AWESOME map that broke down each state by county and showed the vote tallies. I had so much FUN with this thing. Yep, I had to play with it again today it was so cool.
I did stay up late. I was glued to the internet. I was glued to the television. And I am truly excited about the outcome (of the Presidential race anyway). FYI, the BBC always called states earlier than any national news outlets. This, of course, made me at least FEEL like I had the 'heads up' and was more informed...a complete illusion I assure you. But still cool, all the same!
The MN Senate race is going to an automatic re-count. I realize why this occurs - and it is necessary. I do not realize why it must drag out through December. I know this goes to the Secretary of State office, but you know what? Whatever that office's regular duties are should be put on hold and get this thing determined before Thanksgiving. Come on people. Through the end of December? Should Al Franken win he would have what, 20 days to put everything together for a staff, home, etc., and Norm Coleman would have the same 20 days to move it on out? What about his staffers? Crazy. Crazy & ridiculous. I thought MN was better than FL. Hopefully we won't have any 'hanging chads' in our future.
I am NOT pleased in any way shape or form regarding my House Representative race. The looney who won has made herself into a national laughing stock in the last few weeks (on The Chris Matthews Show) and is a complete whack-job. This was even confirmed by former Gen. Colin Powell on "Meet The Press". No, he did not refer to her as that exactly, but it was veiled and close. So really, I am not exaggerating here. Anyway, since I live in a dominant Republican area. They'll keep her because she's a Republican - even if she is a crack-pot. I am so proud.
So last night my quest for political nerdness was quenched... for the time being anyway. CNN had this completely AWESOME map that broke down each state by county and showed the vote tallies. I had so much FUN with this thing. Yep, I had to play with it again today it was so cool.
I did stay up late. I was glued to the internet. I was glued to the television. And I am truly excited about the outcome (of the Presidential race anyway). FYI, the BBC always called states earlier than any national news outlets. This, of course, made me at least FEEL like I had the 'heads up' and was more informed...a complete illusion I assure you. But still cool, all the same!
The MN Senate race is going to an automatic re-count. I realize why this occurs - and it is necessary. I do not realize why it must drag out through December. I know this goes to the Secretary of State office, but you know what? Whatever that office's regular duties are should be put on hold and get this thing determined before Thanksgiving. Come on people. Through the end of December? Should Al Franken win he would have what, 20 days to put everything together for a staff, home, etc., and Norm Coleman would have the same 20 days to move it on out? What about his staffers? Crazy. Crazy & ridiculous. I thought MN was better than FL. Hopefully we won't have any 'hanging chads' in our future.
I am NOT pleased in any way shape or form regarding my House Representative race. The looney who won has made herself into a national laughing stock in the last few weeks (on The Chris Matthews Show) and is a complete whack-job. This was even confirmed by former Gen. Colin Powell on "Meet The Press". No, he did not refer to her as that exactly, but it was veiled and close. So really, I am not exaggerating here. Anyway, since I live in a dominant Republican area. They'll keep her because she's a Republican - even if she is a crack-pot. I am so proud.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
I Voted
As if you were in doubt, I voted. I've got my little red sticker to prove it. It is amazing how proud it makes you feel to wear a little red circle sticker. I feel like I am in preschool again. Yeah, and they gave K2 and K3 stickers too. So burst my bubble. I wanted to be the only one with a sticker for a change. hehehehe.
K2 was just cute - K1 got home from school and he was jumping up and down in the living room "I voted! I voted!!" Yeah dude - rock on with your bad self!
Now at my precinct the wait was barely a wait at all. It did take me longer to fill in my little circles than to wait in line. Not to shabby for my boondocks neck of the woods. Now for this evening I'll be absolutely GLUED to the computer & internet. I've been watching the CNN map change colors for over an hour and I am completely addicted. Oh, that's not the only map I am watching. Oh no, not just one map will do for me. I've got several. I've even got Fox up on another tab. GO BLUE! This is a true sign of a complete political nerd. I've known I was bad - but it really does get worse by the day.
I'll be up until the wee hours watching it all come in - guaranteed. I don't even care if 'they' call the winner at 9pm. I'm in for the duration. WAHOO! This is the BEST!!
K2 was just cute - K1 got home from school and he was jumping up and down in the living room "I voted! I voted!!" Yeah dude - rock on with your bad self!
Now at my precinct the wait was barely a wait at all. It did take me longer to fill in my little circles than to wait in line. Not to shabby for my boondocks neck of the woods. Now for this evening I'll be absolutely GLUED to the computer & internet. I've been watching the CNN map change colors for over an hour and I am completely addicted. Oh, that's not the only map I am watching. Oh no, not just one map will do for me. I've got several. I've even got Fox up on another tab. GO BLUE! This is a true sign of a complete political nerd. I've known I was bad - but it really does get worse by the day.
I'll be up until the wee hours watching it all come in - guaranteed. I don't even care if 'they' call the winner at 9pm. I'm in for the duration. WAHOO! This is the BEST!!
Monday, November 3, 2008
The fat lady will sing tomorrow night...AMEN
Although great joy has been had through out this election cycle. It has brought with it a temporary widow-hood. H's job has been completely NUTS the last 3-4 weeks especially. OK, it was crazy through the primary season also...just not like this. And it was wacko when we were supposedly on a vacation in September. But that just means that H didn't take any vacation time for the vacation. Let's just say that after Tuesday evening, I'll be married again. YEA! Can I register at Macy's? Will anyone send cards, money or gifts? Can we go on another honeymoon? How fun would that be?!
Believe it or not, we ditched trick or treating this year. HOW on EARTH did I manage that? Well my brother & sister in-law had a party. H worked & I took the kiddies outta town. They partied down. K1 was a baby. Not much of a stretch for her at times. K2 was a pirate. He's been acting like one for over a year. K3 refused costume. But she did wear a cute black & orange owl Halloweenie shirt. We did run into town to walk through the local nursing home & elderly apartments. Old and young alike love that - and Great Grandma got to brag to her friends. Good deal all around. Kids loved seeing the grandparents dressed up too. Grandpa was 'the sheriff', and Grandma was a hobo. What was I? I ripped off K2's hat and was a train conductor. I pulled out my 'ol maternity overalls & stuffed a pillow in there. I guess I didn't really look like a fat old guy - just a prego chica w/a hat! Oh well. That's what you get w/a late notice! It was fun, even if the kids freaked out at other people's costumes. They don't even like walking down the isles at Target where the Halloween stuff is. But they did stare a lot. I told them - if you don't like it - DON'T LOOK. For cryin' out loud, it isn't that complicated. But they couldn't help themselves. Crazy kiddies. But really the food was all the craze. It was good stuff - it just LOOKED disgusting. My fave was the cat litter cake...complete with tootsie roll turds! Jeez did that look like the real thing....ewwwwwww!
Believe it or not, we ditched trick or treating this year. HOW on EARTH did I manage that? Well my brother & sister in-law had a party. H worked & I took the kiddies outta town. They partied down. K1 was a baby. Not much of a stretch for her at times. K2 was a pirate. He's been acting like one for over a year. K3 refused costume. But she did wear a cute black & orange owl Halloweenie shirt. We did run into town to walk through the local nursing home & elderly apartments. Old and young alike love that - and Great Grandma got to brag to her friends. Good deal all around. Kids loved seeing the grandparents dressed up too. Grandpa was 'the sheriff', and Grandma was a hobo. What was I? I ripped off K2's hat and was a train conductor. I pulled out my 'ol maternity overalls & stuffed a pillow in there. I guess I didn't really look like a fat old guy - just a prego chica w/a hat! Oh well. That's what you get w/a late notice! It was fun, even if the kids freaked out at other people's costumes. They don't even like walking down the isles at Target where the Halloween stuff is. But they did stare a lot. I told them - if you don't like it - DON'T LOOK. For cryin' out loud, it isn't that complicated. But they couldn't help themselves. Crazy kiddies. But really the food was all the craze. It was good stuff - it just LOOKED disgusting. My fave was the cat litter cake...complete with tootsie roll turds! Jeez did that look like the real thing....ewwwwwww!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Lots of loose ends
So much crapola, so little time. I feel like I've been running around with my head cut off. Would probably forget it if it wasn't attached...and all that sort of goodness.
Had one very last trek to the cabin for 2008. Just me & the 3 kiddos - we stopped to see a friend and her horseys & had lunch en route. Kids LOVE that. At the cabin we closed up shop.
It has been forever since I've put a boat in or taken one out of the lake. Well, that didn't go all too well...hehehe...and yes I did giggle at myself. 1st - I drove the vehicle w/the trailer to the landing to pull out the pontoon. My deal with backing up - if I have an audience, it does not go well. There were 2 guys there taking a boat out on the far side. Not good. After they left, I shot it back perfectly...but the last thing Dad had said prior to leaving was - 'Make sure you are far enough away from the dock.' Well, I thought I was too close. (Ended up that I wasn't. Live and learn.) So Dad pulls up w/the pontoon. I get out and hold the boat and just have him back it in. Much easier!! And he put it right where I HAD it that 1 time. Anyway, so Dad's back in the boat, pulls it onto the trailer so I start trying to pull him out. OOPS. Forgot 1 very important part. He's got to tie it onto the trailer 1st. Yep - my blonde roots were showing. But we got it done - with a LOT of commentary from K1, of course. She just talks NON-STOP. Whenever I needed full concentration it was "Now K1, you HAVE to shut up now." And you know what? She did. Amazing.
So we put the other boat in the shed. Pulled the boat lift out of the lake & chained it up (that's the worst job). Put the canopy away. Pulled the pontoon out. Tarped it up. Got the RV turned around. Boxed up all the canned stuff & cleaning stuff that cannot freeze & packed it into the RV. Washed the RV & the truck while we were at it, that that's about it.
I did have to watch "P.S. I Love You" again on DVD. Jeez, I love that movie.
So last week was hounding K1 about not running, jumping or riding her bike. She ends up doing all of these things. She figured I wouldn't be as mad if she took K2s bike...and she did...and she fell off the darn thing and it has TRAINING WHEELS on it! Nice. So Saturday her ear starts to hurt. Nice. So help me if this surgery isn't successful, I'm not really certain how my temper will react - because I will certainly know it is K1's fault for not following Dr. orders. I will also be bald...just a fair warning for you.
K3 started to say "HEY!" if you take something away from her (or anywhere near her). She also gives you a corresponding dirty look that is just priceless.
I started really working with K2 on letters and sounds. He has zero interest what-so-ever. Not good. It's like pulling teeth to talk with him for 2 minutes. Terrible. So I asked the women at ECFE for some ideas. 1 used to be a preschool teacher, so I was surprised when she mentioned a Leap Frog video called "Letter Factory". I picked it up this morning. K2 LOVES it. So we'll see how long that lasts.
Saturday I took K1 and a neighbor girl to see "High School Musical 3". K1 is completely in love with Zac Efron. Wow. I wasn't into drooling over movie stars until I was like 11. This isn't a good sign. Anyway, the movie was cute and the girls loved it. I liked that all the kiddies in the theater were singing along!
Election stuff
I have had great fun with this election cycle. I will freely admit that. But I am such a political and history nerd that I'd have to be dead not to. My interest and passion has been re-kindled. I think it has to do with the fact that all the 'rules' have changed. Seriously. You look at how this sucker has gone - there's been nothing like it in the past. Obama's campaign is the model of the future campaign. We'll see it again - but it won't be as awe inspiring to me because of that fact.
People discuss this as an election of historic proportions, but to date it has only been related to 3 things.
1. A Senator - there's NEVER been a Senator elected President. This cycle was bombarded by Senators.
2. A woman - Hillary Clinton. This is the closest a woman has ever come to being elected President.
3. An African-American man - Barack Obama. This is the closest an African-American man has ever come to being elected President.
Although these are 3 great reasons for this election to be historic. I think this election is historic for more reasons than these. The way a campaign is run is completely new. You are no longer able to focus on your hard-core party members for financial purposes. The McCain-Feingold legislation regarding campaign finance 'reform' has nipped McCain in the rearend. Public finanacing of presidential campaigns is a thing of the past. If you are unable to raise a minimum of $600 million dollars to run for this office - don't bother trying. Save what you have and look on from afar because you won't get anywhere in 2012 without that kind of cash.
The 'machine' that the Obama campaign created is completely amazing. Ground up. Amazing. People have publicly knocked his community organizer background. Let me tell you - how do you think he was able to put this huge network together? Using that background baby. True grass roots. From day #1 - not just after his party endorsement. Heck, after his endorsement his network was tried and true and only was expanded in number of participants. All bases were previously established - nothing was seen even close to this from the Clinton or McCain campaigns.
Obama's tech person/team should be lauded. The use of the internet in information flow and fundraising has been jaw-dropping. It will be duplicated for campaigns in the future, and tweaked I'm sure.
I understand David Plouffe is the 'numbers man'. To know exactly in which states, in which specific counties, then townships where to place the exact amount of campaign resources (time, talent & money) has been astounding. To actually look into taking the 1 electoral vote from Omaha to go Blue when the rest of Nebraska would probably go Red. That 1 vote could be 'it' - you NEVER know. Genius. (FYI: Nebraska is the only state that alows its electoral votes to be split based upon their popular vote in specific regions.)
And my last issue for making this historic - taking the high road. More often than not, Obama has taken the high road (and I'm certain has bit his tongue off in the process). I am sure analysis was done on how to run against a war hero. 1 - you never slam the war hero. That is another historic portion. If a war-hero has run, they haven't lost. I am hoping this 'rule' is broken in 2008. So back to the high road. You want examples? I'll give them to you.
1. Whenever McCain's veteran status/POW experience is raised, it is ALWAYS praised. My own personal response would be: Yes, McCain provided great services to this country we all love. Yes, we commend him. However that was a LONG time ago. We need to move forward people. This is 2008 and we need to work on being the best we can be beyond 2008. Not backwards pre-1970.
2. When asked if Palin was ready to be VP/President, it's always 'that's for the public to decide.' You've read my thoughts on this woman. I couldn't have kept the high road on this either. She's completely inept!
2.A. Remember that government checkbook fiasco? The woman wanted to run for VP based on something Obama already DID. And Obama said nothing. Wow. I couldn't have done that one.
3. William Ayers - Bottom line, if you call Obama a terrorist for his affiliations with this man, you are also calling several well-respected Republicans 'Terrorists', as well as several University Presidents in the Chicago area. The result is highly unlikely. Last thing I would have had to state, 'If you are applying this standard to me, then I suggest you research the Keating Five and then go knock on McCain's door.' That's DIRECT involvement baby. You wanna talk character? There is a smear-fest waiting right there.
The high road was taken on many more occasions than these. I do hope that the high road pays off and that politics change course. We, as a public in general, don't like smear campaigns. We don't like campaigns based on being scared and fear mongering. The current Republicans seem to LOVE to run these. I do hope these are a thing of the past & we can put Karl Rove to rest outside the political arena...never to be heard from again. Wishful thinking? Perhaps. Dearly wanted? ABSOLUTELY.
Had one very last trek to the cabin for 2008. Just me & the 3 kiddos - we stopped to see a friend and her horseys & had lunch en route. Kids LOVE that. At the cabin we closed up shop.
It has been forever since I've put a boat in or taken one out of the lake. Well, that didn't go all too well...hehehe...and yes I did giggle at myself. 1st - I drove the vehicle w/the trailer to the landing to pull out the pontoon. My deal with backing up - if I have an audience, it does not go well. There were 2 guys there taking a boat out on the far side. Not good. After they left, I shot it back perfectly...but the last thing Dad had said prior to leaving was - 'Make sure you are far enough away from the dock.' Well, I thought I was too close. (Ended up that I wasn't. Live and learn.) So Dad pulls up w/the pontoon. I get out and hold the boat and just have him back it in. Much easier!! And he put it right where I HAD it that 1 time. Anyway, so Dad's back in the boat, pulls it onto the trailer so I start trying to pull him out. OOPS. Forgot 1 very important part. He's got to tie it onto the trailer 1st. Yep - my blonde roots were showing. But we got it done - with a LOT of commentary from K1, of course. She just talks NON-STOP. Whenever I needed full concentration it was "Now K1, you HAVE to shut up now." And you know what? She did. Amazing.
So we put the other boat in the shed. Pulled the boat lift out of the lake & chained it up (that's the worst job). Put the canopy away. Pulled the pontoon out. Tarped it up. Got the RV turned around. Boxed up all the canned stuff & cleaning stuff that cannot freeze & packed it into the RV. Washed the RV & the truck while we were at it, that that's about it.
I did have to watch "P.S. I Love You" again on DVD. Jeez, I love that movie.
So last week was hounding K1 about not running, jumping or riding her bike. She ends up doing all of these things. She figured I wouldn't be as mad if she took K2s bike...and she did...and she fell off the darn thing and it has TRAINING WHEELS on it! Nice. So Saturday her ear starts to hurt. Nice. So help me if this surgery isn't successful, I'm not really certain how my temper will react - because I will certainly know it is K1's fault for not following Dr. orders. I will also be bald...just a fair warning for you.
K3 started to say "HEY!" if you take something away from her (or anywhere near her). She also gives you a corresponding dirty look that is just priceless.
I started really working with K2 on letters and sounds. He has zero interest what-so-ever. Not good. It's like pulling teeth to talk with him for 2 minutes. Terrible. So I asked the women at ECFE for some ideas. 1 used to be a preschool teacher, so I was surprised when she mentioned a Leap Frog video called "Letter Factory". I picked it up this morning. K2 LOVES it. So we'll see how long that lasts.
Saturday I took K1 and a neighbor girl to see "High School Musical 3". K1 is completely in love with Zac Efron. Wow. I wasn't into drooling over movie stars until I was like 11. This isn't a good sign. Anyway, the movie was cute and the girls loved it. I liked that all the kiddies in the theater were singing along!
Election stuff
I have had great fun with this election cycle. I will freely admit that. But I am such a political and history nerd that I'd have to be dead not to. My interest and passion has been re-kindled. I think it has to do with the fact that all the 'rules' have changed. Seriously. You look at how this sucker has gone - there's been nothing like it in the past. Obama's campaign is the model of the future campaign. We'll see it again - but it won't be as awe inspiring to me because of that fact.
People discuss this as an election of historic proportions, but to date it has only been related to 3 things.
1. A Senator - there's NEVER been a Senator elected President. This cycle was bombarded by Senators.
2. A woman - Hillary Clinton. This is the closest a woman has ever come to being elected President.
3. An African-American man - Barack Obama. This is the closest an African-American man has ever come to being elected President.
Although these are 3 great reasons for this election to be historic. I think this election is historic for more reasons than these. The way a campaign is run is completely new. You are no longer able to focus on your hard-core party members for financial purposes. The McCain-Feingold legislation regarding campaign finance 'reform' has nipped McCain in the rearend. Public finanacing of presidential campaigns is a thing of the past. If you are unable to raise a minimum of $600 million dollars to run for this office - don't bother trying. Save what you have and look on from afar because you won't get anywhere in 2012 without that kind of cash.
The 'machine' that the Obama campaign created is completely amazing. Ground up. Amazing. People have publicly knocked his community organizer background. Let me tell you - how do you think he was able to put this huge network together? Using that background baby. True grass roots. From day #1 - not just after his party endorsement. Heck, after his endorsement his network was tried and true and only was expanded in number of participants. All bases were previously established - nothing was seen even close to this from the Clinton or McCain campaigns.
Obama's tech person/team should be lauded. The use of the internet in information flow and fundraising has been jaw-dropping. It will be duplicated for campaigns in the future, and tweaked I'm sure.
I understand David Plouffe is the 'numbers man'. To know exactly in which states, in which specific counties, then townships where to place the exact amount of campaign resources (time, talent & money) has been astounding. To actually look into taking the 1 electoral vote from Omaha to go Blue when the rest of Nebraska would probably go Red. That 1 vote could be 'it' - you NEVER know. Genius. (FYI: Nebraska is the only state that alows its electoral votes to be split based upon their popular vote in specific regions.)
And my last issue for making this historic - taking the high road. More often than not, Obama has taken the high road (and I'm certain has bit his tongue off in the process). I am sure analysis was done on how to run against a war hero. 1 - you never slam the war hero. That is another historic portion. If a war-hero has run, they haven't lost. I am hoping this 'rule' is broken in 2008. So back to the high road. You want examples? I'll give them to you.
1. Whenever McCain's veteran status/POW experience is raised, it is ALWAYS praised. My own personal response would be: Yes, McCain provided great services to this country we all love. Yes, we commend him. However that was a LONG time ago. We need to move forward people. This is 2008 and we need to work on being the best we can be beyond 2008. Not backwards pre-1970.
2. When asked if Palin was ready to be VP/President, it's always 'that's for the public to decide.' You've read my thoughts on this woman. I couldn't have kept the high road on this either. She's completely inept!
2.A. Remember that government checkbook fiasco? The woman wanted to run for VP based on something Obama already DID. And Obama said nothing. Wow. I couldn't have done that one.
3. William Ayers - Bottom line, if you call Obama a terrorist for his affiliations with this man, you are also calling several well-respected Republicans 'Terrorists', as well as several University Presidents in the Chicago area. The result is highly unlikely. Last thing I would have had to state, 'If you are applying this standard to me, then I suggest you research the Keating Five and then go knock on McCain's door.' That's DIRECT involvement baby. You wanna talk character? There is a smear-fest waiting right there.
The high road was taken on many more occasions than these. I do hope that the high road pays off and that politics change course. We, as a public in general, don't like smear campaigns. We don't like campaigns based on being scared and fear mongering. The current Republicans seem to LOVE to run these. I do hope these are a thing of the past & we can put Karl Rove to rest outside the political arena...never to be heard from again. Wishful thinking? Perhaps. Dearly wanted? ABSOLUTELY.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Putting life into perspective
There are things that arise in life that makes or forces you to get a little perspective on things. Monday, K1 had 'minor' surgery on her ear. Now some people out there don't think much about this. But anytime anesthesia is used I get the 'willies'. This makes me very nervous. So even though the actual procedure was 20 minutes, I don't like it in the least. There could be several reasons for this. The first and most pressing is the subject of everyone's mortality, and the fact that everyone on earth believes that they should never have to bury even one of their children. I think this summs up my issue from Monday very well. Now the interesting part.
Sunday my Pastor had given K1 a knitted prayer shawl. Morgan could choose 2 things to bring with her into the OR. She chose this prayer shawl and a new puppy beanie baby picked from the hospital shelves named 'Boomer'. I'll focus on the prayer shawl. K1 has slept with the prayer shawl since Sunday. Although this is typical of new items for young children, I think this item is especially cool that she's chosen to share her sleep time with. With all the crapola in her room that she can be choosing, she's choosing this. I like it. But let's back up. During the procedure, I didn't have the shawl, however I did experience an immense peace. I did place K1 on the prayer chain at church, but from this peace I experienced, I know I was prayed for as well. Now, when K1 was wheeled into the 2nd stage recovery where I and H could be with her, I initially didn't see the shawl. But when K1 moved her legs I saw that she had used it as a blanket - to be covered in prayer in the OR and following. This was moving to me.
K1 did excellent and all's well. We won't know for a month if this was successful. So we'll pray as the alternative is another and much more extensive and 'major' procedure we'd rather avoid.
Thus life is in perspective - for a little while at least.
Sunday my Pastor had given K1 a knitted prayer shawl. Morgan could choose 2 things to bring with her into the OR. She chose this prayer shawl and a new puppy beanie baby picked from the hospital shelves named 'Boomer'. I'll focus on the prayer shawl. K1 has slept with the prayer shawl since Sunday. Although this is typical of new items for young children, I think this item is especially cool that she's chosen to share her sleep time with. With all the crapola in her room that she can be choosing, she's choosing this. I like it. But let's back up. During the procedure, I didn't have the shawl, however I did experience an immense peace. I did place K1 on the prayer chain at church, but from this peace I experienced, I know I was prayed for as well. Now, when K1 was wheeled into the 2nd stage recovery where I and H could be with her, I initially didn't see the shawl. But when K1 moved her legs I saw that she had used it as a blanket - to be covered in prayer in the OR and following. This was moving to me.
K1 did excellent and all's well. We won't know for a month if this was successful. So we'll pray as the alternative is another and much more extensive and 'major' procedure we'd rather avoid.
Thus life is in perspective - for a little while at least.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Belated report
H and I went to see Robin Williams on Sept. 25th, and I had yet to comment on the evening. H has a history of locking keys in the car. Although he has not done this in over 5 years, he had a nasty stint that will live with him for eternity. So that evening, when he needed to lock the keys in the truck, he didn't. We were already in Minneapolis by the time he realized that he left the keys in the truck parked at my uncle's house. So during the entire evening he was wondering if our truck would still be there...it was. But it does put a damper on the enjoyment level.
The show started 30 minutes late. We were in the upper balcony, so we could only figure that Mr. Williams was delayed. It was annoying - mainly because we would have had the time to go back to the truck, get the keys and lock the darn thing! The next morning while listening to the radio we learned that a gentleman had had a heart attack and was revived. Wow. That put some perspective on things. So throughout the evening there were jokes how the audience was getting older and the ticket people also would need to start checking to make sure people had health insurance prior to entering, etc.
There were TONS of political jokes, and Williams is a liberal Democrat, so I absolutely loved the jokes he told. Now this is interesting - a lot of comics have stories they tell with 1 punchline. Not this guy. Every phrase he says is a joke. I couldn't retell his jokes to you if I tried. I laughed for an hour and a half straight and I loved it.
Now next to me was a high school kid with his Mom & Dad. I think they were Republicans since they were not laughing at any of the political jokes. I felt really bad for the kid though - he's sitting there probably thinking this stuff is funny but he can't laugh because Mom & Dad aren't laughing. How bad would that suck? Poor kid.
I had been warned that Williams has foul language. Yeah, he does. More so than even I expected or imagined. But hey - it's his show - that's how he communicates. Leave him to it. He made me laugh, that's what I paid for. Done deal.
So this performance was the kick off to his tour. If he comes to your city, I suggest going. In these sucky economic times and icky political ads on TV, who doesn't need some good laughs?
The show started 30 minutes late. We were in the upper balcony, so we could only figure that Mr. Williams was delayed. It was annoying - mainly because we would have had the time to go back to the truck, get the keys and lock the darn thing! The next morning while listening to the radio we learned that a gentleman had had a heart attack and was revived. Wow. That put some perspective on things. So throughout the evening there were jokes how the audience was getting older and the ticket people also would need to start checking to make sure people had health insurance prior to entering, etc.
There were TONS of political jokes, and Williams is a liberal Democrat, so I absolutely loved the jokes he told. Now this is interesting - a lot of comics have stories they tell with 1 punchline. Not this guy. Every phrase he says is a joke. I couldn't retell his jokes to you if I tried. I laughed for an hour and a half straight and I loved it.
Now next to me was a high school kid with his Mom & Dad. I think they were Republicans since they were not laughing at any of the political jokes. I felt really bad for the kid though - he's sitting there probably thinking this stuff is funny but he can't laugh because Mom & Dad aren't laughing. How bad would that suck? Poor kid.
I had been warned that Williams has foul language. Yeah, he does. More so than even I expected or imagined. But hey - it's his show - that's how he communicates. Leave him to it. He made me laugh, that's what I paid for. Done deal.
So this performance was the kick off to his tour. If he comes to your city, I suggest going. In these sucky economic times and icky political ads on TV, who doesn't need some good laughs?
Friday, October 3, 2008
What a sad state of affairs
Looking at last evening's debate (Sen. Joe Biden/Gov. Sarah Palin), a few things strike me. I think this is the 1st time I've really enjoyed a VP debate. Although my definition of 'enjoy' is different here. I liked Biden's approach. Personally I really wanted to see him rake Palin over the coals, shred her, etc. as she justly deserves. I am sure Biden in private really wanted to do the same. You know he probably bit 1/2 his tongue off last night - poor guy. Unfortunately I don't think the rest of the country would have enjoyed the slaughter as I would have. Everyone would be labeling him 'brutal' today. So Biden took the high road - kudos to him. I don't think I really could have done the same. I like my tongue to stay the way it is.
Last evening Palin kept referring to her & McCain's supposed 'maverick' status. Even to the point of not answering questions from the moderator. "I may not answer the question the way you want to hear, but I'll talk straight to the American people and let them know my track record," Palin said. Not only did she not answer the questions, but she didn't 'talk straight to the American people' either. You know, that isn't being a maverick. That is being a snotty brat (to put it very mildly). I agree that all politicians choose to answer or not answer questions - but MOST give at least some form of response. Frankly, as a viewer, I was insulted by her response to not answer questions and to go backwards and discuss something she already hashed through. I wonder how Gwen Ifill (the moderator) felt about being directly snubbed in this way? Now I am not certain if most people caught this tactic - few pundits are remarking on it today. To me it completely shows that on those questions she truly did not know what to say or how to say it. Bottom line that spells out the fact that she's not ready to be VP...to anyone. Go back to Alaska & be Governor. You like it. It works for you. Have fun. Bye-bye now.
Now the really sad part. The aftershocks of the debate show that people thought Palin did better than expected, there were no major gaffes, and so people are pleased with her performance. SINCE WHEN did the standards for VP become so dirt/mud/crap/piss poor? I mean really...Diane Sawyer's remark afterwards regarding Palin's composure - really? THAT is what we're going to comment on? What about the substance of answers? Here is a specific one that raised several red flags in my book:
IFILL: Governor, on another issue, interventionism, nuclear weapons. What should be the trigger, or should there be a trigger, when nuclear weapons use is ever put into play?
Palin's response was stating that the U.S. use of nuclear weapons as a deterrant was perfect, and that economic sanctions with our allies needed to be placed on countries like North Korea and Iran.
That's it. Oh, and she asked to talk about Afghanistan some more. To read her entire response, click here.
No mention of inspections. No mention of arms control. No mention of test-ban treaties.
What the #@*)!!! Holly Hannah. And people want her within a heartbeat of that proverbial little red button. Oh. My. Gosh. I can't stand it. There aren't words to show how much this really scares the crap out of me.
Last evening Palin kept referring to her & McCain's supposed 'maverick' status. Even to the point of not answering questions from the moderator. "I may not answer the question the way you want to hear, but I'll talk straight to the American people and let them know my track record," Palin said. Not only did she not answer the questions, but she didn't 'talk straight to the American people' either. You know, that isn't being a maverick. That is being a snotty brat (to put it very mildly). I agree that all politicians choose to answer or not answer questions - but MOST give at least some form of response. Frankly, as a viewer, I was insulted by her response to not answer questions and to go backwards and discuss something she already hashed through. I wonder how Gwen Ifill (the moderator) felt about being directly snubbed in this way? Now I am not certain if most people caught this tactic - few pundits are remarking on it today. To me it completely shows that on those questions she truly did not know what to say or how to say it. Bottom line that spells out the fact that she's not ready to be VP...to anyone. Go back to Alaska & be Governor. You like it. It works for you. Have fun. Bye-bye now.
Now the really sad part. The aftershocks of the debate show that people thought Palin did better than expected, there were no major gaffes, and so people are pleased with her performance. SINCE WHEN did the standards for VP become so dirt/mud/crap/piss poor? I mean really...Diane Sawyer's remark afterwards regarding Palin's composure - really? THAT is what we're going to comment on? What about the substance of answers? Here is a specific one that raised several red flags in my book:
IFILL: Governor, on another issue, interventionism, nuclear weapons. What should be the trigger, or should there be a trigger, when nuclear weapons use is ever put into play?
Palin's response was stating that the U.S. use of nuclear weapons as a deterrant was perfect, and that economic sanctions with our allies needed to be placed on countries like North Korea and Iran.
That's it. Oh, and she asked to talk about Afghanistan some more. To read her entire response, click here.
No mention of inspections. No mention of arms control. No mention of test-ban treaties.
What the #@*)!!! Holly Hannah. And people want her within a heartbeat of that proverbial little red button. Oh. My. Gosh. I can't stand it. There aren't words to show how much this really scares the crap out of me.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Where did it go?
I believe there comes a time where every parent around the world probably asks the question:
"Where did this kid's brain go?"
This happened to me yesterday. I was sitting on the couch reading a book to K2. K1 was talking on the telephone in the den with her friend. And please let me remind you that she is the queen of tattling. K3 then proceeded to take a red crayon and scribble on my ivory wall...a lot. A good 2' square full of scribbles.
And K1 said nothing. Absolutely nothing.
I heard some scratching noise and postponed the end of the book to check it out. And do you know what K1s comment was?? This is a good one....
"I didn't think you'd wanna know."
I went into official orbit. Where did this kid's brain go???
Can someone out there tell me when this may end? I fear it is something that doesn't...
"Where did this kid's brain go?"
This happened to me yesterday. I was sitting on the couch reading a book to K2. K1 was talking on the telephone in the den with her friend. And please let me remind you that she is the queen of tattling. K3 then proceeded to take a red crayon and scribble on my ivory wall...a lot. A good 2' square full of scribbles.
And K1 said nothing. Absolutely nothing.
I heard some scratching noise and postponed the end of the book to check it out. And do you know what K1s comment was?? This is a good one....
"I didn't think you'd wanna know."
I went into official orbit. Where did this kid's brain go???
Can someone out there tell me when this may end? I fear it is something that doesn't...
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
What a complete mess
What a mess the economy is. You know, this bailout business is something I am really really torn over. I guess now is the time when I wish I would have done better in Econ 101 than a C. It never really 'clicked' with me. So when you have these 'experts' stating we really need to do this, I don't know what to say.
So I tried to find data to show actuals of what WOULD happen if we did nothing. Well, there is nothing out there. I suppose 'they' figure the American public would be freaked out by the results. Guess what? I can imagine the worst, and if that is what will happen, bring it on. If 'they' aren't going to SAY what the real deal is, then why should I believe them?
You know - this is the 'boy cried wolf' scenario, only this time it is 'Bush cried wolf' scenario. We've had the WMD issue that led us into a big ole nasty war that has no foreseeable end in sight. It's always 'they are doing this, we MUST do that.' Well you know what? The American public is pissed, and now the answer is "NO WAY". You've gone down that road too many times.
This Paulsen guy - who does he think he is anyway? Oh, give me $700 billion and I'll fix it. No oversight, just hand it over. Yeah right. Bend the public over so your croanies on Wall Street can be even fatter cats before Bush leaves office. What country does he think he works for?
Where does this $700 billion number come from? I cannot find support for it anywhere. If anyone out there knows - please pass it on. I'd really like to see it backed up somehow.
Bottom line - people don't like having to bail out companies who's execs who make millions and millions year after year when they have difficulty paying their monthly bills that end up being pocket change in comparison. Even when these banks go belly up, those execs get a fat check. 1 example was a CEO brought in 4 mos. prior to bankruptcy - he made $20 million. Yes, $20 million in 4 mos and the co. doesn't exist. Pardon me, but that dude shouldn't have gotten ANYTHING. Nobody should if the company goes belly up. Where is this rationale from? Again, if you know, please explain it to me because I will keep thinking this is complete crap.
I was discussing this with H a few minutes ago. His idea for getting out of this mess, I think, is brilliant. Each person 18+ should get a check. Split the $700 billion and each adult would receive $40,000 some-odd dollars. Now THAT would kick start the economy. People could make their mortgage payments for a good 2 years on that (at least). During that 2 years, you rehab the banking industry and get it figured out the right way, not the seat of your pants way. And if anyone would like a bailout in the meantime - too bad. They'll just have to go belly up like any other 'normal' business is this country. I love this idea - go H!!
So I tried to find data to show actuals of what WOULD happen if we did nothing. Well, there is nothing out there. I suppose 'they' figure the American public would be freaked out by the results. Guess what? I can imagine the worst, and if that is what will happen, bring it on. If 'they' aren't going to SAY what the real deal is, then why should I believe them?
You know - this is the 'boy cried wolf' scenario, only this time it is 'Bush cried wolf' scenario. We've had the WMD issue that led us into a big ole nasty war that has no foreseeable end in sight. It's always 'they are doing this, we MUST do that.' Well you know what? The American public is pissed, and now the answer is "NO WAY". You've gone down that road too many times.
This Paulsen guy - who does he think he is anyway? Oh, give me $700 billion and I'll fix it. No oversight, just hand it over. Yeah right. Bend the public over so your croanies on Wall Street can be even fatter cats before Bush leaves office. What country does he think he works for?
Where does this $700 billion number come from? I cannot find support for it anywhere. If anyone out there knows - please pass it on. I'd really like to see it backed up somehow.
Bottom line - people don't like having to bail out companies who's execs who make millions and millions year after year when they have difficulty paying their monthly bills that end up being pocket change in comparison. Even when these banks go belly up, those execs get a fat check. 1 example was a CEO brought in 4 mos. prior to bankruptcy - he made $20 million. Yes, $20 million in 4 mos and the co. doesn't exist. Pardon me, but that dude shouldn't have gotten ANYTHING. Nobody should if the company goes belly up. Where is this rationale from? Again, if you know, please explain it to me because I will keep thinking this is complete crap.
I was discussing this with H a few minutes ago. His idea for getting out of this mess, I think, is brilliant. Each person 18+ should get a check. Split the $700 billion and each adult would receive $40,000 some-odd dollars. Now THAT would kick start the economy. People could make their mortgage payments for a good 2 years on that (at least). During that 2 years, you rehab the banking industry and get it figured out the right way, not the seat of your pants way. And if anyone would like a bailout in the meantime - too bad. They'll just have to go belly up like any other 'normal' business is this country. I love this idea - go H!!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Dang
So the creepy crawley critters received a stay of execution from mother nature. Aka, it rained. But beware - the big bad bug man WILL be here eventually, of that I am most certain.
K2 is such a hoot. People always say 'kids say the darndest things'. Here's a little background for you. We have a 1997 Chevy Lumina named 'Chuck'. Just over 2 years ago I got in a car accident and crashed in the passenger side of Chuck. Chuck still runs like a dream and H drives it for his daily commute. So this morning, K2 asks me out of the blue:
"Mom - is Chuck still crapped up?"
Hehehehehehe
"Yes, he is."
That's it. No discussion, no nothing. In K2s defense he was watching his morning breakfast cartoon. But I really like 'crapped up' opposed to 'crashed up'. 'Tis going into the household dictionary, along with:
'Gramma Crappers' (aka graham crackers, another K2 invention)
'Monkey Bars' (granola bars, K1 coined this years ago)
'Stick Cheese' (aka string cheese, by me to differentiate between the cheese types)
Think Websters would approve?
K2 is such a hoot. People always say 'kids say the darndest things'. Here's a little background for you. We have a 1997 Chevy Lumina named 'Chuck'. Just over 2 years ago I got in a car accident and crashed in the passenger side of Chuck. Chuck still runs like a dream and H drives it for his daily commute. So this morning, K2 asks me out of the blue:
"Mom - is Chuck still crapped up?"
Hehehehehehe
"Yes, he is."
That's it. No discussion, no nothing. In K2s defense he was watching his morning breakfast cartoon. But I really like 'crapped up' opposed to 'crashed up'. 'Tis going into the household dictionary, along with:
'Gramma Crappers' (aka graham crackers, another K2 invention)
'Monkey Bars' (granola bars, K1 coined this years ago)
'Stick Cheese' (aka string cheese, by me to differentiate between the cheese types)
Think Websters would approve?
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Eviction notice
To all resident: asian beetles, boxelder bugs, hornets & any other creepy crawling thing living or even thinking of living in my house. Consider this your eviction notice - you have less than 24 hours to remove yourself from my property forever, or you'll die here. Tell your friends and family, huh? Mr. big bad bug man is coming - WAHOO! He'll be my new best friend because my kids won't be screaming at bugs and I won't have to use my 'bug sucker' (aka dust buster) daily for months on end. It's a win-win baby...unless you're one of the bugs.
Ks 2 & 3 started their ECFE 'school' last week. This class is for 10, 1 year olds, so K3 was amazed to see so many people her size in 1 place. It was quite cute. K2 gets to hang with another girl his age & a teacher. Play & paint. What more could a kid want?
Tomorrow night is 'Christmas date night'. H and I skipped exchanging gifts last year. Instead, throughout the year we looked for tickets to something we'd enjoy seeing together (e.g. concerts, plays, musicals, etc.). So tomorrow night we are going to go see Robin Williams at Northrup Auditorium @ the U. We're pretty excited since we were unable to get tickets earlier this year when he was at ACME Comedy Club in Minneapolis. So be prepped for the review. I'm thinking a good portion may be too raunchy to tell online - for my blog anyway - but I'd have no issue relaying some over the phone! HA! I'm terrible, I know. But for some reason 'Depends' is coming to mind. Should I go buy some so that I don't pee my pants from laughing too hard???? I'm starting to get concerned. Maybe I'll just limit my fluid intake tomorrow to be on the safe side.
Ks 2 & 3 started their ECFE 'school' last week. This class is for 10, 1 year olds, so K3 was amazed to see so many people her size in 1 place. It was quite cute. K2 gets to hang with another girl his age & a teacher. Play & paint. What more could a kid want?
Tomorrow night is 'Christmas date night'. H and I skipped exchanging gifts last year. Instead, throughout the year we looked for tickets to something we'd enjoy seeing together (e.g. concerts, plays, musicals, etc.). So tomorrow night we are going to go see Robin Williams at Northrup Auditorium @ the U. We're pretty excited since we were unable to get tickets earlier this year when he was at ACME Comedy Club in Minneapolis. So be prepped for the review. I'm thinking a good portion may be too raunchy to tell online - for my blog anyway - but I'd have no issue relaying some over the phone! HA! I'm terrible, I know. But for some reason 'Depends' is coming to mind. Should I go buy some so that I don't pee my pants from laughing too hard???? I'm starting to get concerned. Maybe I'll just limit my fluid intake tomorrow to be on the safe side.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
When I'm wrong, I'm wrong
This is something that's hard for some to admit, not me. I've publicly flogged Palin here for several things, and I must stand corrected. See CNN's article here regarding the Alaskan Governor's jet/eBay fiasco. Please read prior to continuing w/the following.
So I will publicly apologize to Mrs. Palin for the incorrect data. I am truly sorry.
Now I will publicly flog John McCain. HE is the one who stated the jet was sold on eBay. And HE is the one who stated Alaska made a profit from it. Both are false - entirely. Why. Why, why, why would he do this when it is so incredibly simple to check data prior to speaking (and he's got staffers to do it - heck he's got staffers where it is their entire job to check the data of his speeches.) I've got the answer, and unfortunately we haven't seen the last of it. You can easily go out and make statements like this - millions of people hear it and are excited. Oh, but when you oh so sincerely apologize for it a week later, that just doesn't receive as much P.R. and people are still quoting the original wrong data anyway. Milk it for mileage. Yep. Just cuz they do not have anything else. OR - here's the other possibility. McCain is in the early stages of Alzheimer's. We've elected at least 1 prior President with it. It wouldn't be new here. What a sad commentary on the state of our country that one is.
And here's my latest swipe at Palin. TODAY she was trying to make a point that when she was Governor of Alaska she put their checkbook online for better fiscal transparentcy. When SHE is VP, she will do the same with Washington's checkbook.
Sorry to burst your bubble Ms. Palin, BUT, Barack Obama already did this. Yes, it's a DONE DEAL. You can see the checkbook here. In 2006 & 2007 Obama along with Republican Senator Tom Coburn co-sponsored the "Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act." Oh yes, and please let me add that John McCain was the original co-sponsor to this bill in 2006 before he decided he didn't want to co-sponsor it after all.
Hmmmmm.
So Palin is campaigning to do something that already exists and that her Sr. running mate backed out of co-sponsoring on 2nd thought. What the heck is the deal with THIS???
Now if you know the answer to THIS one, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know because I, for the life of me, really can't figure it out.
So I will publicly apologize to Mrs. Palin for the incorrect data. I am truly sorry.
Now I will publicly flog John McCain. HE is the one who stated the jet was sold on eBay. And HE is the one who stated Alaska made a profit from it. Both are false - entirely. Why. Why, why, why would he do this when it is so incredibly simple to check data prior to speaking (and he's got staffers to do it - heck he's got staffers where it is their entire job to check the data of his speeches.) I've got the answer, and unfortunately we haven't seen the last of it. You can easily go out and make statements like this - millions of people hear it and are excited. Oh, but when you oh so sincerely apologize for it a week later, that just doesn't receive as much P.R. and people are still quoting the original wrong data anyway. Milk it for mileage. Yep. Just cuz they do not have anything else. OR - here's the other possibility. McCain is in the early stages of Alzheimer's. We've elected at least 1 prior President with it. It wouldn't be new here. What a sad commentary on the state of our country that one is.
And here's my latest swipe at Palin. TODAY she was trying to make a point that when she was Governor of Alaska she put their checkbook online for better fiscal transparentcy. When SHE is VP, she will do the same with Washington's checkbook.
Sorry to burst your bubble Ms. Palin, BUT, Barack Obama already did this. Yes, it's a DONE DEAL. You can see the checkbook here. In 2006 & 2007 Obama along with Republican Senator Tom Coburn co-sponsored the "Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act." Oh yes, and please let me add that John McCain was the original co-sponsor to this bill in 2006 before he decided he didn't want to co-sponsor it after all.
Hmmmmm.
So Palin is campaigning to do something that already exists and that her Sr. running mate backed out of co-sponsoring on 2nd thought. What the heck is the deal with THIS???
Now if you know the answer to THIS one, PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let me know because I, for the life of me, really can't figure it out.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
OMG, I can't believe I left out the biggest thing...
with Palin. Let's get to a little background, shall we? Keep in mind MY background and special interest in international relations please.
1 of my largest issues w/Bush-baby is the fact that the man cannot speak well - and makes up words to boot. You know, I realize a lot of people are the same way - BUT THEY are not representing the most powerful country in the world. HE is the representation we have. And it's been terrible for over 7 years. I have to say, it will be wonderful, come January, that no matter who wins that this issue will disappear for a minimum of 4 years. I cannot wait.
My main issue w/Bush is his style of diplomacy - or lack thereof - and the way foreign policy is handled...or not. In his 2nd term the phrase 'cowboy diplomacy' was coined in the media. Let me just say, they were late on that bandwagon. You can ask H - seriously - because I used that exact phrase in 2001. Let's turn to the facts. Bush took office w/a world approval rating that was very high. One of the 1st summits he attended was on the Kyoto Treaty regarding climate change - aka global warming. Since his speech was basically 'go to hell, we're not doing this', the view of America went in the toilet and the cowboy diplomacy officially began. Fast forward a few months to 9/11. Once again, due to severe circumstances, America held an extremely high approval rating. And you know what? Bush pissed it away again. You look at all foreign policy of any president in the last 30 years, and you know what they WORK on? Middle East PEACE. Did Bush try, at all, to work w/Israel & Palestine during term #1? No - he deemed it unimportant...at the time. So then to 2004 and term #2. In his inauguration speech he then deemed Middle East peace 'worthy' of his attention. Yeah buddy, you've ignored it for 4 years and you think they'll actually listen to you now that you have a load of military troops and hardware in the region. Good luck with that.
So here we are today. I will not even address the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan. We're there and we need it ended effectively. Nobody can argue with that statement. It is just HOW & WHEN that is argued about. And I won't be addressing that one here.
But what I WILL address is Palin's view on military and how it was expressed in her interview w/Charles Gibson. The question was asked something like this: we have troops in Afghanistan - if they have Osama Bin Laden in their sights and he crosses into Pakistan, do you take him out or do you ask permission from Pakistan. Of course she tried to dodge the question, but ended up making the implication that you take him out w/o permission to enter Pakistan - you do what is necessary to protect the American people. OK - here's my beef. You don't say things like this publicly - she's saying that Pakistan has no sovereignty and our interests are first on THEIR soil. How would you feel if Russia tracked someone into Alaska and did the same? I bet Palin would be the 1st to be bitching about THAT one. And she SHOULD BE. Why the double standard? No wonder Americans are hated all around the world. THIS is THE reason America's reputation is completely in the toilet. Big Bad USA stomping around the world doing whatever we please. You know - this MAY be the case, but you don't put it in THESE terms. WAY bad P.R. people.
THIS is reality. The question was silly - base line. Mr. Gibson - this is already worked out between the leaders. It'd be McCain's or Obama's job, ASAP, to make certain that Pakistan OK'd this action before the scenario even presented itself. And hopefully the Bush administration has already taken care of this - but they haven't been the best planners - so it'd best be checked on 1st thing. Using the blackmail only America can afford, this really isn't a problem. But this isn't discussed in the MEDIA. For cryin' out loud man. Have you no love for our reputation world-wide? Granted it's in the toilet, but do you have to make it worse?
In the end, it just simply shows that Palin need severe work on diplomacy. This is not news, she's been Governor of Alaska for less than 2 years. But IF she DOES get that VP office, let's just hope it's worked on and that the 'cowboy diplomacy' doesn't end up continuing. We really can't afford that.
1 of my largest issues w/Bush-baby is the fact that the man cannot speak well - and makes up words to boot. You know, I realize a lot of people are the same way - BUT THEY are not representing the most powerful country in the world. HE is the representation we have. And it's been terrible for over 7 years. I have to say, it will be wonderful, come January, that no matter who wins that this issue will disappear for a minimum of 4 years. I cannot wait.
My main issue w/Bush is his style of diplomacy - or lack thereof - and the way foreign policy is handled...or not. In his 2nd term the phrase 'cowboy diplomacy' was coined in the media. Let me just say, they were late on that bandwagon. You can ask H - seriously - because I used that exact phrase in 2001. Let's turn to the facts. Bush took office w/a world approval rating that was very high. One of the 1st summits he attended was on the Kyoto Treaty regarding climate change - aka global warming. Since his speech was basically 'go to hell, we're not doing this', the view of America went in the toilet and the cowboy diplomacy officially began. Fast forward a few months to 9/11. Once again, due to severe circumstances, America held an extremely high approval rating. And you know what? Bush pissed it away again. You look at all foreign policy of any president in the last 30 years, and you know what they WORK on? Middle East PEACE. Did Bush try, at all, to work w/Israel & Palestine during term #1? No - he deemed it unimportant...at the time. So then to 2004 and term #2. In his inauguration speech he then deemed Middle East peace 'worthy' of his attention. Yeah buddy, you've ignored it for 4 years and you think they'll actually listen to you now that you have a load of military troops and hardware in the region. Good luck with that.
So here we are today. I will not even address the wars in Iraq or Afghanistan. We're there and we need it ended effectively. Nobody can argue with that statement. It is just HOW & WHEN that is argued about. And I won't be addressing that one here.
But what I WILL address is Palin's view on military and how it was expressed in her interview w/Charles Gibson. The question was asked something like this: we have troops in Afghanistan - if they have Osama Bin Laden in their sights and he crosses into Pakistan, do you take him out or do you ask permission from Pakistan. Of course she tried to dodge the question, but ended up making the implication that you take him out w/o permission to enter Pakistan - you do what is necessary to protect the American people. OK - here's my beef. You don't say things like this publicly - she's saying that Pakistan has no sovereignty and our interests are first on THEIR soil. How would you feel if Russia tracked someone into Alaska and did the same? I bet Palin would be the 1st to be bitching about THAT one. And she SHOULD BE. Why the double standard? No wonder Americans are hated all around the world. THIS is THE reason America's reputation is completely in the toilet. Big Bad USA stomping around the world doing whatever we please. You know - this MAY be the case, but you don't put it in THESE terms. WAY bad P.R. people.
THIS is reality. The question was silly - base line. Mr. Gibson - this is already worked out between the leaders. It'd be McCain's or Obama's job, ASAP, to make certain that Pakistan OK'd this action before the scenario even presented itself. And hopefully the Bush administration has already taken care of this - but they haven't been the best planners - so it'd best be checked on 1st thing. Using the blackmail only America can afford, this really isn't a problem. But this isn't discussed in the MEDIA. For cryin' out loud man. Have you no love for our reputation world-wide? Granted it's in the toilet, but do you have to make it worse?
In the end, it just simply shows that Palin need severe work on diplomacy. This is not news, she's been Governor of Alaska for less than 2 years. But IF she DOES get that VP office, let's just hope it's worked on and that the 'cowboy diplomacy' doesn't end up continuing. We really can't afford that.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Sarah Palin, opinion formed
Fasten your seatbelts, I've got a lot of gripe and I'm airing it here. There are several issues about this woman that just irritate me beyond belief.
1st and foremost - her eldest daughter & youngest son were made to be pawns in a political arena. NOT ok. They're minors and have no choice. Her youngest son - a pawn just for being born. Thousands of women make the same choice as she did and they aren't placed up on some pedestal. Her eldest daughter for having her baby. Hopefully this isn't so glorified that you have teens intentionally set out for the same result. The GOP is cheering her on - but will THEY be there when she needs help and assistance? No. She's also glorified because she will be marrying the father...hummm...let's make a bad situation worse by forcing your daughter into marriage along with dealing with teen motherhood at the same time. I don't see a real good outcome here folks.
2nd - There is something about Palin I don't like. I've got that proverbial GUT feeling. This feeling of mine has never been wrong. And I mean NEVER. On the few occasions I have ignored it, I've completely regretted it. Therefore it is not something I take lightly by any stretch of the imagination. There is something off about this woman. And I mean REALLY off.
3rd - In Palin's acceptance speech at the GOP convention she ripped on community organizers. Sorry folks, you shouldn't be shredding any profession on a platform such as that - I don't care if the intended target is your opponent. Bottom line, those community organizers are one in the same people the GOP needs to implement their so-called plans for this country's future. And she just went and pissed them all off to take a swipe at Obama? Whomever thought of that one is a complete idiot. Nice show.
4rd - GOP supporters are upset that Palin is being highly investigated by the media. See Glenn Beck's article on CNN here . He's not the only one p&m-ing. Let's look at this subjectively people. McCain has been in Washington 30 years. Media's got him covered time & time again. No news. Biden - same situation. Obama has been in the limelight since he announced his candidacy over a year and a half ago - no new news there. What do you THINK the media will focus on? Palin is a woman who is unknown in the national arena and just accepted the #2 job in the world if the electoral votes work in the GOP's favor. You don't think people want to know about her? Get a grip. And if she can't handle this heat, she definitely better stay out of the premiere executive kitchen in the world.
5th - Considered by a lot of people as a slight 'slip'. I completely disagree. She said 'I sold the Alaskan Governor's plane on e-Bay.' No, she didn't. She LISTED it on e-Bay. It didn't sell there. You know, when people hit that exec office their interpretations of reality start to get awfully skewed. What else will she try to skim over on the American public? Over staffers? Over McCain? This is no small thing, I'm telling you.
Last - and this is a doozy. I've done the 'working Mom' gig and I've also done the 'at home Mom' gig. Granted I only have 3 kids running around around my house, but I figure this gives me every right to make the comments that will enrage feminists everywhere - and shocked myself to boot. Palin campaigning using "FAMILY VALUES" is a crock. Should she be in the VP office, nannies will be caring for her children. That's fine & her & her hubby decided that's OK for them - IF you aren't campaigning w/a "family values" slogan. This is not a 9 to 5er folks. I don't think any Mom OR Dad with young kids should be in the #1 or #2 office - UNLESS the other parent is 'at home' 100% and fully available to their kid(s) at the drop of a hat. During her 'maybe' term in office, the Palins will just be getting into what it really means to be parents to a special needs child. Granted I have never experienced this first hand, however I have watched others struggle with items that a 'normal' child (whatever that means) takes for granted daily. Simple eye-contact isn't granted and the child isn't even treated as a child, but as a 'thing' that disgusts them. Hey - I'm just telling it like it is. Some people out there are rude and crude and it'll be seriously amplified at the Palin house. Anyone heading into this office is mostly clueless until they get their feet wet. I don't care how much experience they may have - it's a shock and I am certain about that. But I think the Palin's are even more-so. Some would say 'it'll be their problem'. Yes, it will be. BUT, we'll be paying the price. If tasks are re-assigned from the VP seat elsewhere, we as Americans are getting screwed. It'd be HER job, not some other staffer. Wanna talk fiscal responsibility? You aren't doing your job - duties shouldn't be placed elsewhere, you should be fired.
Now some will think I am sexist. Frankly I think, in this instance, I am too. However I have stated my clarifications also. And I don't believe they're out of line. But women's lib has gone a bit too far in certain circumstances. Let me clarify that one. And if anyone ever misquotes me on this, there'll be #### to pay. If SAFETY standards are changed so that women can hold a certain job, that is not OK. You are putting others at risk. Example: fire fighters. Yes women can be fire fighters. However the amount of weight required to lift was lowered in specific jobs so that this could happen. You and I as citizens are put at a higher risk due to this. I don't think that is OK. The safety standards were set at specific levels for a reason. If a woman wants to be a fire fighter, she needs to meet the same exact standard, it shouldn't be changed. Some will say that that negates a woman's chance to be a fire fighter. I say - I'd rather be safe than sorry. I don't want my family and friends at risk just so a woman can say 'yeah, I'm a fire fighter.' And bottom line is this: we can't always have what we want in life. Deal with it. God made you a female for a reason - figure out what it is and make Him proud.
I've got my big girl panties on - so flame away.
1st and foremost - her eldest daughter & youngest son were made to be pawns in a political arena. NOT ok. They're minors and have no choice. Her youngest son - a pawn just for being born. Thousands of women make the same choice as she did and they aren't placed up on some pedestal. Her eldest daughter for having her baby. Hopefully this isn't so glorified that you have teens intentionally set out for the same result. The GOP is cheering her on - but will THEY be there when she needs help and assistance? No. She's also glorified because she will be marrying the father...hummm...let's make a bad situation worse by forcing your daughter into marriage along with dealing with teen motherhood at the same time. I don't see a real good outcome here folks.
2nd - There is something about Palin I don't like. I've got that proverbial GUT feeling. This feeling of mine has never been wrong. And I mean NEVER. On the few occasions I have ignored it, I've completely regretted it. Therefore it is not something I take lightly by any stretch of the imagination. There is something off about this woman. And I mean REALLY off.
3rd - In Palin's acceptance speech at the GOP convention she ripped on community organizers. Sorry folks, you shouldn't be shredding any profession on a platform such as that - I don't care if the intended target is your opponent. Bottom line, those community organizers are one in the same people the GOP needs to implement their so-called plans for this country's future. And she just went and pissed them all off to take a swipe at Obama? Whomever thought of that one is a complete idiot. Nice show.
4rd - GOP supporters are upset that Palin is being highly investigated by the media. See Glenn Beck's article on CNN here . He's not the only one p&m-ing. Let's look at this subjectively people. McCain has been in Washington 30 years. Media's got him covered time & time again. No news. Biden - same situation. Obama has been in the limelight since he announced his candidacy over a year and a half ago - no new news there. What do you THINK the media will focus on? Palin is a woman who is unknown in the national arena and just accepted the #2 job in the world if the electoral votes work in the GOP's favor. You don't think people want to know about her? Get a grip. And if she can't handle this heat, she definitely better stay out of the premiere executive kitchen in the world.
5th - Considered by a lot of people as a slight 'slip'. I completely disagree. She said 'I sold the Alaskan Governor's plane on e-Bay.' No, she didn't. She LISTED it on e-Bay. It didn't sell there. You know, when people hit that exec office their interpretations of reality start to get awfully skewed. What else will she try to skim over on the American public? Over staffers? Over McCain? This is no small thing, I'm telling you.
Last - and this is a doozy. I've done the 'working Mom' gig and I've also done the 'at home Mom' gig. Granted I only have 3 kids running around around my house, but I figure this gives me every right to make the comments that will enrage feminists everywhere - and shocked myself to boot. Palin campaigning using "FAMILY VALUES" is a crock. Should she be in the VP office, nannies will be caring for her children. That's fine & her & her hubby decided that's OK for them - IF you aren't campaigning w/a "family values" slogan. This is not a 9 to 5er folks. I don't think any Mom OR Dad with young kids should be in the #1 or #2 office - UNLESS the other parent is 'at home' 100% and fully available to their kid(s) at the drop of a hat. During her 'maybe' term in office, the Palins will just be getting into what it really means to be parents to a special needs child. Granted I have never experienced this first hand, however I have watched others struggle with items that a 'normal' child (whatever that means) takes for granted daily. Simple eye-contact isn't granted and the child isn't even treated as a child, but as a 'thing' that disgusts them. Hey - I'm just telling it like it is. Some people out there are rude and crude and it'll be seriously amplified at the Palin house. Anyone heading into this office is mostly clueless until they get their feet wet. I don't care how much experience they may have - it's a shock and I am certain about that. But I think the Palin's are even more-so. Some would say 'it'll be their problem'. Yes, it will be. BUT, we'll be paying the price. If tasks are re-assigned from the VP seat elsewhere, we as Americans are getting screwed. It'd be HER job, not some other staffer. Wanna talk fiscal responsibility? You aren't doing your job - duties shouldn't be placed elsewhere, you should be fired.
Now some will think I am sexist. Frankly I think, in this instance, I am too. However I have stated my clarifications also. And I don't believe they're out of line. But women's lib has gone a bit too far in certain circumstances. Let me clarify that one. And if anyone ever misquotes me on this, there'll be #### to pay. If SAFETY standards are changed so that women can hold a certain job, that is not OK. You are putting others at risk. Example: fire fighters. Yes women can be fire fighters. However the amount of weight required to lift was lowered in specific jobs so that this could happen. You and I as citizens are put at a higher risk due to this. I don't think that is OK. The safety standards were set at specific levels for a reason. If a woman wants to be a fire fighter, she needs to meet the same exact standard, it shouldn't be changed. Some will say that that negates a woman's chance to be a fire fighter. I say - I'd rather be safe than sorry. I don't want my family and friends at risk just so a woman can say 'yeah, I'm a fire fighter.' And bottom line is this: we can't always have what we want in life. Deal with it. God made you a female for a reason - figure out what it is and make Him proud.
I've got my big girl panties on - so flame away.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Road Trippin' wrap-up
I had previously handled most of day 2 w/day 1s festivities. Other than a fabulous dinner at a steakhouse restaurant, it's there.
Friday we were in Fort Collins - according to H, had we not had Ks in MN, we woulda stayed in CO...at the time he was more than frustrated w/work, phones & conference calls when we needed to be heading into the mountains w/o reception. At least we knew after getting on the road he was unreachable - that's such a great feeling! It was cool & cloudy when we left, but into the mountains we went on 14 along the Poudre River. A beautiful drive - w/tons of fly fishermen. Should you ever get the opportunity to drive this, go for it. You won't regret it. One aspect of the drive that was unsuspected was driving in a prairie in the midst of mountains all around. If you look at a map, this is near Walden (approx. 20 mi. south of the Wyoming border). Now this is the so-called "Moose Viewing Capitol of CO". Of course, WE saw no moose. We saw cattle & hay.
Anyway, into Steamboat Springs we arrive - only 15 minutes later than intended. Not so bad - and we made our shuttle on-time to hit the wedding rehearsal BBQ. There really was no rehearsal - just an excuse to get together once more on a mountain side. This location was truly beautiful - hit the web link to check it out in detail. On the main site, between the pool and the bushes to the left is where the vows took place - of course the spectators could check out the bride & groom, or the mountains all around or the valley below. Any choice was a sight to behold. But watching the sunset on both Friday & Saturday nights from this location was spectacular. Our 1st 'wildlife' sighting was here... 2 chipmunks.
Saturday during the day we went into Steamboat to shop. Cannot neglect THAT. Stores were trying to get rid of all their t-shirts for the year so everything was on sale - nice sales, not just token ones. But you know, I've got enough t-shirts and sweatshirts. We picked up an engraved green slate trivet & a Christmas tree ornament. OH, and a Columbia rain poncho for K1 for $2.16. Can you say 'Pay you to take the darn thing?' I was SO excited. We also checked out Strawberry Fields Hot Springs that was about a 20 minute drive over some mountains on a gravel road that you didn't think would get you anywhere. Our Impala, SuzieQ, got a work-out! These were the 1st hot springs I'd been to where you didn't smell the sulfer. Very nice. No suits along, but we remained fulled clothed & had our feet & calves in there - ahhhhh.
Sunday AM was breakfast, into town once more for a quick look into a few more shops, top off the tank and outta town. Backtracking a bit we were back to Walden...still no moose. Then it was up to Laramie, WY and onto 80 for the trek back across Nebraska. Just prior to Laramie we saw....antelope. They were in a pasture being raised domesticly. Don't think this counts on the 'wildlife' front since cattle were to the left pasture and horses were in the pasture to the right. And those aren't 'wildlife' either. Let's just say, all the people we talked to who said the drive outta town via Laramie was pretty - they were lying. My only 'give' on this point is if they'd never seen any type of mountin before in their life. That's my only clarification I'd give on that drive. So into Nebraska, again, we went. Really, you make this drive once in your life, and that is truly enough. We made it to Kearney for the night. Just before our exit, we did see deer (a lot of deer, I'd say a couple dozen) - true 'wildlife' at last.
Monday AM, the trek home. We took the same back way home and did end up stopping in Sibley, IA to see if I could find my Great Grandparents' house in the daylight. I knew it was near railroad tracks, but I couldn't find it. Little did I recall that there are more than 1 set of railroad tracks in town. So I called Grandma and asked for the address. Viola. I knew 2 blocks before we were at it that 'that's it!!' H didn't believe me, but it was. There is new siding on it - tan, and a window was removed from the side of the house I always picture in my mind. Talking w/my Mom last night we tried to figure out when the last time I had seen the house. 25 years ago is the answer.
We stopped in New Ulm, MN to check into a wooden German nutcracker since I collect these. I had heard for YEARS that THIS was THE spot to go. This is not the case any longer. We found 1 store & the sad part is that TJ Maxx & Marshalls have better selections. Extremely disappointing doesn't even describe that one.
We arrived home at 8:20. Ks 1 & 2 were still awake, so that was kinda nice. Although it was completely fantastic to get away, the kids seemed to have grown a foot in 5 days.
Overall, H & I had a wonderful time & we'd do it again if we could leave in 5 minutes. Along the way we had, obviously, TONS of time to talk uninterrupted. And we did! And you know what? It wasn't even all about the kids! I know, I can hardly stand it myself. Amoungst other things we were trying to plan the next road trip. My request was that it be to a place I hadn't been to before. This highly limits the possibilities. ALSO, I'd like it to be on my 'die' list. You know, the list of places you want to see before you die. Well, this REALLY limits it since my 'die' list includes: Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, Australia & the Grand Canyon. Only 1 is a road trip. So we'll see what happens!! Also, if you're up for a trip to Ireland, Alaska or Hawaii, I may need someone to travel with - let me know if these are ever in your line-up and we'll go together!
Friday we were in Fort Collins - according to H, had we not had Ks in MN, we woulda stayed in CO...at the time he was more than frustrated w/work, phones & conference calls when we needed to be heading into the mountains w/o reception. At least we knew after getting on the road he was unreachable - that's such a great feeling! It was cool & cloudy when we left, but into the mountains we went on 14 along the Poudre River. A beautiful drive - w/tons of fly fishermen. Should you ever get the opportunity to drive this, go for it. You won't regret it. One aspect of the drive that was unsuspected was driving in a prairie in the midst of mountains all around. If you look at a map, this is near Walden (approx. 20 mi. south of the Wyoming border). Now this is the so-called "Moose Viewing Capitol of CO". Of course, WE saw no moose. We saw cattle & hay.
Anyway, into Steamboat Springs we arrive - only 15 minutes later than intended. Not so bad - and we made our shuttle on-time to hit the wedding rehearsal BBQ. There really was no rehearsal - just an excuse to get together once more on a mountain side. This location was truly beautiful - hit the web link to check it out in detail. On the main site, between the pool and the bushes to the left is where the vows took place - of course the spectators could check out the bride & groom, or the mountains all around or the valley below. Any choice was a sight to behold. But watching the sunset on both Friday & Saturday nights from this location was spectacular. Our 1st 'wildlife' sighting was here... 2 chipmunks.
Saturday during the day we went into Steamboat to shop. Cannot neglect THAT. Stores were trying to get rid of all their t-shirts for the year so everything was on sale - nice sales, not just token ones. But you know, I've got enough t-shirts and sweatshirts. We picked up an engraved green slate trivet & a Christmas tree ornament. OH, and a Columbia rain poncho for K1 for $2.16. Can you say 'Pay you to take the darn thing?' I was SO excited. We also checked out Strawberry Fields Hot Springs that was about a 20 minute drive over some mountains on a gravel road that you didn't think would get you anywhere. Our Impala, SuzieQ, got a work-out! These were the 1st hot springs I'd been to where you didn't smell the sulfer. Very nice. No suits along, but we remained fulled clothed & had our feet & calves in there - ahhhhh.
Sunday AM was breakfast, into town once more for a quick look into a few more shops, top off the tank and outta town. Backtracking a bit we were back to Walden...still no moose. Then it was up to Laramie, WY and onto 80 for the trek back across Nebraska. Just prior to Laramie we saw....antelope. They were in a pasture being raised domesticly. Don't think this counts on the 'wildlife' front since cattle were to the left pasture and horses were in the pasture to the right. And those aren't 'wildlife' either. Let's just say, all the people we talked to who said the drive outta town via Laramie was pretty - they were lying. My only 'give' on this point is if they'd never seen any type of mountin before in their life. That's my only clarification I'd give on that drive. So into Nebraska, again, we went. Really, you make this drive once in your life, and that is truly enough. We made it to Kearney for the night. Just before our exit, we did see deer (a lot of deer, I'd say a couple dozen) - true 'wildlife' at last.
Monday AM, the trek home. We took the same back way home and did end up stopping in Sibley, IA to see if I could find my Great Grandparents' house in the daylight. I knew it was near railroad tracks, but I couldn't find it. Little did I recall that there are more than 1 set of railroad tracks in town. So I called Grandma and asked for the address. Viola. I knew 2 blocks before we were at it that 'that's it!!' H didn't believe me, but it was. There is new siding on it - tan, and a window was removed from the side of the house I always picture in my mind. Talking w/my Mom last night we tried to figure out when the last time I had seen the house. 25 years ago is the answer.
We stopped in New Ulm, MN to check into a wooden German nutcracker since I collect these. I had heard for YEARS that THIS was THE spot to go. This is not the case any longer. We found 1 store & the sad part is that TJ Maxx & Marshalls have better selections. Extremely disappointing doesn't even describe that one.
We arrived home at 8:20. Ks 1 & 2 were still awake, so that was kinda nice. Although it was completely fantastic to get away, the kids seemed to have grown a foot in 5 days.
Overall, H & I had a wonderful time & we'd do it again if we could leave in 5 minutes. Along the way we had, obviously, TONS of time to talk uninterrupted. And we did! And you know what? It wasn't even all about the kids! I know, I can hardly stand it myself. Amoungst other things we were trying to plan the next road trip. My request was that it be to a place I hadn't been to before. This highly limits the possibilities. ALSO, I'd like it to be on my 'die' list. You know, the list of places you want to see before you die. Well, this REALLY limits it since my 'die' list includes: Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland, Australia & the Grand Canyon. Only 1 is a road trip. So we'll see what happens!! Also, if you're up for a trip to Ireland, Alaska or Hawaii, I may need someone to travel with - let me know if these are ever in your line-up and we'll go together!
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Oh-my-ha: Road Trip - Day 1
We ended up leaving town at 6 yesterday. A bit late, but we were on our way. We took the scenic route out of MN - aka the long way. But we did see something different and that's what road trips are all about. We hit Worthington at about 10pm and memories were flooding back to when we'd drive down to see my Great Grandma in Sibley, IA. Granted I hadn't been down that way in years - but it hadn't changed much. It was too bad we were driving through at night. I would have liked to try to find their little house. I knew I'd definietly have NO luck at night. Maybe on our way home - we'll see.
So back to the road...entering Iowa. The only guarantee of driving through IA is smelling bovine & skunk. If you aren't smelling 1, you are definitely smelling the other. We made it to Council Bluffs by 12:45 and I had showered and was sleeping by 1:05. Let's just say that when I 1st saw the signs for Omaha (just across the river from Council Bluffs), I was thinking "Oh-My ***". It was pretty dead.
What is it with maps. I can look at an atlas for hours. We did take the long and definitely dreaded drive through Nebraska today - currently we are in eastern Colorado and we'll hit Fort Collins tonight. I love wi-fi and laptops. Technology rules. Anyway, back to the maps & Nebraska. Cliffy factoid - Did you know: there is a river in NE called DISMAL in the county of HOOKER? hehehe - I like that one.
It is flat here. And I mean flat. Not quite like Fargo where you can see the curve of the earth, but when you're at the top of a hill, you can see for miles and miles and miles and miles...just like the song. I had forgotten about CO's oil wells. They're here and spread out. Since I've been here last they've also added windmills - YEA!
Oops! In a small valley en route, I lost all reception. So now it's closing in on my bedtime here in Fort Collins. We made it to the pretty mountains! And let me just say - the small-ish mountains we see here are MOST welcome and beautiful. Tomorrow's drive through the Rockies will be even more-so, I'm certain.
So back to the road...entering Iowa. The only guarantee of driving through IA is smelling bovine & skunk. If you aren't smelling 1, you are definitely smelling the other. We made it to Council Bluffs by 12:45 and I had showered and was sleeping by 1:05. Let's just say that when I 1st saw the signs for Omaha (just across the river from Council Bluffs), I was thinking "Oh-My ***". It was pretty dead.
What is it with maps. I can look at an atlas for hours. We did take the long and definitely dreaded drive through Nebraska today - currently we are in eastern Colorado and we'll hit Fort Collins tonight. I love wi-fi and laptops. Technology rules. Anyway, back to the maps & Nebraska. Cliffy factoid - Did you know: there is a river in NE called DISMAL in the county of HOOKER? hehehe - I like that one.
It is flat here. And I mean flat. Not quite like Fargo where you can see the curve of the earth, but when you're at the top of a hill, you can see for miles and miles and miles and miles...just like the song. I had forgotten about CO's oil wells. They're here and spread out. Since I've been here last they've also added windmills - YEA!
Oops! In a small valley en route, I lost all reception. So now it's closing in on my bedtime here in Fort Collins. We made it to the pretty mountains! And let me just say - the small-ish mountains we see here are MOST welcome and beautiful. Tomorrow's drive through the Rockies will be even more-so, I'm certain.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
In the world of politics
I realized that I haven't blogged recently about political events - and for me, that just isn't right. So here goes: the good, the bad & the downright ugly.
Obama picked Biden. I'm still not sure how I feel about this. Biden is well known for shooting off his mouth. And I think in light of the way the Bush administration has ran, this is a good thing. At least if Obama plans to listen to his VP anyway. Each exec is different, in their structure and power bases - and rightly so. I just hope Biden doesn't end up putting his foot in his mouth more often than not. I'd hate for the Dems to have a "Quayle" in their midst - if you know what I mean.
The Dems had their shot in the limelight last week. It was the same old-same old. I didn't watch a lot of the hoopla - strange stuff for me. But I did catch most of the 'big' speeches, thanks to H. I missed Michelle Obama's speech completely. At 1st I was NOT impressed w/Hillary's speech. However she pulled it through about 2/3rds of the way through & it came together well. Old Bill - he's always been a great speaker (oh how I've missed listening to a leader who could put a clear cohearant sentence together WITHOUT making up words.) Biden's speech was exactly what you'd expect and he delivered. Obama's was downright inspirational. You know - a leader who doesn't inspire, really isn't much of a leader. There were things he was able to say, that have needed to be said, for a LONG time. Like taking responsibility YOURSELVES for not just your life, but your family and your own communities. Look at your immediate world and do something about it. Anyway - I loved it. I won't bore you w/any more on that one.
McCain picked Palin. Now some would think I'd be extatic for a female on a ticket. I'm not. Why? It's not the right female. To choose a woman, solely because she's a woman to get p-o'd Hillary supporters is completely insulting. You have McCain, who is 72. In any other profession in this country he'd be forced into retirement. He is campaigning to hold the MOST stressful job in the world. I don't agree that he should have chosen a VP w/virtually no experience. 2 years as a Governor just doesn't cut it in my book. Palin just got her feet wet. Heaven-forbid McCain's health fail. This is NOT a stretch of the imagination as I've stated above. You want Palin to be President then? Not me. No way. This is scary if you ask me.
Now the good part of McCain's choice of Palin is this. I've seen a part of the McCain that I USED to know show up. I liked McCain PRIOR to his running for President. He did buck his party when called for. He did some great legislative bills. But when he started running for Pres., he ditched ALL the things I liked about him. He even has campaigned AGAINST the things he bucked the GOP for in the 1st place. So for him to choose Palin was just a glimmer of hope that the McCain that I knew and liked prior was still in there somewhere. But that's where the good part ends.
So now it's the GOP's turn so show the world whatever it is they want to show us. We'll see how that one goes.
Last night on the news there were raids and arrests for 'protesters'. I use that term loosely since the people arrested were not speaking about anything and were simply ruining others' property (smashed windows & vandalism). These are not protesters - they're thugs. The real protesters were across town. Differing views were presented & yes, yelling was happening. However nobody was hurt, no fists were flying & no property was damaged. That is protesting. Send those other guys to jail & throw away the key.
Obama picked Biden. I'm still not sure how I feel about this. Biden is well known for shooting off his mouth. And I think in light of the way the Bush administration has ran, this is a good thing. At least if Obama plans to listen to his VP anyway. Each exec is different, in their structure and power bases - and rightly so. I just hope Biden doesn't end up putting his foot in his mouth more often than not. I'd hate for the Dems to have a "Quayle" in their midst - if you know what I mean.
The Dems had their shot in the limelight last week. It was the same old-same old. I didn't watch a lot of the hoopla - strange stuff for me. But I did catch most of the 'big' speeches, thanks to H. I missed Michelle Obama's speech completely. At 1st I was NOT impressed w/Hillary's speech. However she pulled it through about 2/3rds of the way through & it came together well. Old Bill - he's always been a great speaker (oh how I've missed listening to a leader who could put a clear cohearant sentence together WITHOUT making up words.) Biden's speech was exactly what you'd expect and he delivered. Obama's was downright inspirational. You know - a leader who doesn't inspire, really isn't much of a leader. There were things he was able to say, that have needed to be said, for a LONG time. Like taking responsibility YOURSELVES for not just your life, but your family and your own communities. Look at your immediate world and do something about it. Anyway - I loved it. I won't bore you w/any more on that one.
McCain picked Palin. Now some would think I'd be extatic for a female on a ticket. I'm not. Why? It's not the right female. To choose a woman, solely because she's a woman to get p-o'd Hillary supporters is completely insulting. You have McCain, who is 72. In any other profession in this country he'd be forced into retirement. He is campaigning to hold the MOST stressful job in the world. I don't agree that he should have chosen a VP w/virtually no experience. 2 years as a Governor just doesn't cut it in my book. Palin just got her feet wet. Heaven-forbid McCain's health fail. This is NOT a stretch of the imagination as I've stated above. You want Palin to be President then? Not me. No way. This is scary if you ask me.
Now the good part of McCain's choice of Palin is this. I've seen a part of the McCain that I USED to know show up. I liked McCain PRIOR to his running for President. He did buck his party when called for. He did some great legislative bills. But when he started running for Pres., he ditched ALL the things I liked about him. He even has campaigned AGAINST the things he bucked the GOP for in the 1st place. So for him to choose Palin was just a glimmer of hope that the McCain that I knew and liked prior was still in there somewhere. But that's where the good part ends.
So now it's the GOP's turn so show the world whatever it is they want to show us. We'll see how that one goes.
Last night on the news there were raids and arrests for 'protesters'. I use that term loosely since the people arrested were not speaking about anything and were simply ruining others' property (smashed windows & vandalism). These are not protesters - they're thugs. The real protesters were across town. Differing views were presented & yes, yelling was happening. However nobody was hurt, no fists were flying & no property was damaged. That is protesting. Send those other guys to jail & throw away the key.
Monday, September 1, 2008
It's the last day of summer
Happy Labor Day - the unofficial last day of summer. Boooooooo AND YEA at the same time. We've had such a lovely summer it's hard to see it come to and end. But we've all managed to stay sane and that is no small feat - so YEA - no looney bin for me....yet.
In the last week we have gotten a lot jammed in.
Another Dr. trip for K1. 1 hole from having tubes in her ears is not healing. So we've scheduled a trip to the ENT. Stay tuned.
K2 had a birthday and H was completely jealous of his toys. To help him feel better I told him that if he asked really nicely, I bet K2 would share, hehehehe.
Ks and I went to my Grandmas house for a short overnight visit and my Aunt changed her plans to make certain she was there to visit as well - YEA! My life had about 50 years taken off - K3 fell down the stairs. She wasn't herself when she went to bed yet so I worried, prayed, and made deals with God for 12 hours. Most of which doesn't work - except for the prayer part of course. But, all is well (God must've been listening) and since it's been a few days I am pleased to report that she doesn't even have 1 bruise to show for her 'trip'. But let's not have to ever go through that one again. Whew.
My friend & her girls were here for our last "SSS" (Summer Sanity Session aka playdate) of the season. THANKS LADIES!! We'll miss ya.
Nephew's 1st HS football game of the season (He's a Sr. & 1 of the captains). K1 and I went to that so therefore K1 needed explaination. Driving to the game 'Mom, can I play football?' 'Not until you're older' 'Why?' 'They don't have teams that let girls play when you're small.' A few miles later... 'Mom, I'm not going to play football anyway.' 'Why?' 'Because you have to get hit. I don't wanna get hit.' 'OK' Can't say I blame her. I don't wanna get hit either. But then she said she'd play basketball instead. 'Well, you can get hit in that too.' 'Really?' 'Yep.' You could literally SEE the cogs turning in that little head of hers.
K1 and I went on a shopping trip Saturday. This was kick-started by getting my eyebrows waxed. You know - every time I have this done, I tell the person that I do get REALLY red - no allergies, etc., but REALLY REALLY red. But to have no fear - it's OK because most of the time, it's still a little pink the next day. And every time they never believe me. After we're done, it's always 'Wow, you really do get red!' "NOOOOOO, really???? Jeez - who would-a thought THAT??" It is truly comical. This time was no different - except K1 was watching insanely close. So much so that as she was bending over me, her hair was brushing my face. Silly girl. So then I told her that if anyone mentioned anything about my red eyes that she could tell them I got in a fight. We had fun the rest of the morning shopping and having lunch. Shopping for a few shirts for me was most excellent. 'Mom, you should get this ORANGE one!' 'Nope, orange is not my color.' 'This yellow one is nice Mom. You really NEED this one.' 'Nope, yellow is not my color either.' 'Mom, you just HAVE to HAVE THIS ONE!' 'Nope, sorry, I think that one is ugly. The price is REALLY ugly.'
A trip to a cousin's was yesterday. Man those kids are growing up fast. Oldest has her driver's permit now - watch out! A great & fun day - we need to get together more often.
The house went through a tornado of a cleaning today. YEA! Figured that since we're leaving town that we'd best get a few things cleaned & organized prior.
Leaving town? Yes, leaving town - ROAD TRIP BABY!! It's upon us and will start Wednesday night after K1 gets home from her 1st real day of school. I can't WAIT! Bring it on...
In the last week we have gotten a lot jammed in.
Another Dr. trip for K1. 1 hole from having tubes in her ears is not healing. So we've scheduled a trip to the ENT. Stay tuned.
K2 had a birthday and H was completely jealous of his toys. To help him feel better I told him that if he asked really nicely, I bet K2 would share, hehehehe.
Ks and I went to my Grandmas house for a short overnight visit and my Aunt changed her plans to make certain she was there to visit as well - YEA! My life had about 50 years taken off - K3 fell down the stairs. She wasn't herself when she went to bed yet so I worried, prayed, and made deals with God for 12 hours. Most of which doesn't work - except for the prayer part of course. But, all is well (God must've been listening) and since it's been a few days I am pleased to report that she doesn't even have 1 bruise to show for her 'trip'. But let's not have to ever go through that one again. Whew.
My friend & her girls were here for our last "SSS" (Summer Sanity Session aka playdate) of the season. THANKS LADIES!! We'll miss ya.
Nephew's 1st HS football game of the season (He's a Sr. & 1 of the captains). K1 and I went to that so therefore K1 needed explaination. Driving to the game 'Mom, can I play football?' 'Not until you're older' 'Why?' 'They don't have teams that let girls play when you're small.' A few miles later... 'Mom, I'm not going to play football anyway.' 'Why?' 'Because you have to get hit. I don't wanna get hit.' 'OK' Can't say I blame her. I don't wanna get hit either. But then she said she'd play basketball instead. 'Well, you can get hit in that too.' 'Really?' 'Yep.' You could literally SEE the cogs turning in that little head of hers.
K1 and I went on a shopping trip Saturday. This was kick-started by getting my eyebrows waxed. You know - every time I have this done, I tell the person that I do get REALLY red - no allergies, etc., but REALLY REALLY red. But to have no fear - it's OK because most of the time, it's still a little pink the next day. And every time they never believe me. After we're done, it's always 'Wow, you really do get red!' "NOOOOOO, really???? Jeez - who would-a thought THAT??" It is truly comical. This time was no different - except K1 was watching insanely close. So much so that as she was bending over me, her hair was brushing my face. Silly girl. So then I told her that if anyone mentioned anything about my red eyes that she could tell them I got in a fight. We had fun the rest of the morning shopping and having lunch. Shopping for a few shirts for me was most excellent. 'Mom, you should get this ORANGE one!' 'Nope, orange is not my color.' 'This yellow one is nice Mom. You really NEED this one.' 'Nope, yellow is not my color either.' 'Mom, you just HAVE to HAVE THIS ONE!' 'Nope, sorry, I think that one is ugly. The price is REALLY ugly.'
A trip to a cousin's was yesterday. Man those kids are growing up fast. Oldest has her driver's permit now - watch out! A great & fun day - we need to get together more often.
The house went through a tornado of a cleaning today. YEA! Figured that since we're leaving town that we'd best get a few things cleaned & organized prior.
Leaving town? Yes, leaving town - ROAD TRIP BABY!! It's upon us and will start Wednesday night after K1 gets home from her 1st real day of school. I can't WAIT! Bring it on...
1 more Fair thing
I forgot 1 thing about the MN State Fair. Oops.
We were walking uphill and at the top of this hill the street was jam packed. People could hardly move. I thought nothing of it because it was past 1pm on the 1st Saturday of the Fair - that's standard stuff. Then we were walking by a local 'teeny bopper' radio station and the DJ yells "THE BACKSTREET BOYS!!!"
Oooo goody.
Girls were screaming their little heads off - I was going even more deaf. H says 'find some space, we need air NOW.' YEA - NO KIDDING.
Crazy.
We were walking uphill and at the top of this hill the street was jam packed. People could hardly move. I thought nothing of it because it was past 1pm on the 1st Saturday of the Fair - that's standard stuff. Then we were walking by a local 'teeny bopper' radio station and the DJ yells "THE BACKSTREET BOYS!!!"
Oooo goody.
Girls were screaming their little heads off - I was going even more deaf. H says 'find some space, we need air NOW.' YEA - NO KIDDING.
Crazy.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The great MN get together
The State Fair was a complete blast this year. With the cooperating weather at 75 w/o humidity & not a cloud in the sky - we couldn't ask for more than that. We ended up staying about 3 hours longer than expected because it was just so nice & we were all having so much fun.
Now I didn't keep a good track on the food we ate - afterall, it IS all about the food - but here's a sampling anyway (we'll skip quantities and just shoot for an item list): bacon & egg sandwich, cheese curds, pronto pup, corn on the cob, chocolate malt, lemonade, chicken avacado pita, french fries, hamburger, chocolate dipped cheesecake (on a stick), kettle corn, and Sweet Martha's chocolate chip cookies (a pail made it home with us - how'd THAT happen???).
Our annual pics from the photo booth turned out well - K3 really didn't enjoy that, but the other 2 hammed it up. Sliding down the huge gunny sack slide (a tradition left over from my childhood) was another highlight. H & K2 had to stand at the top awhile - K2 was a 'bit' hesitant. Next year we'll get K3 on there. She'll be ready for sure.
The midway for the kids was their most favorite. We made 2 stops and when we weren't there they kept asking if we could GO there. What broken records.
Best part - H & I would frequently split & meet communicating via cell phones. Well, the last time we split, I called him - his reception stinks - and I had to yell into the phone. A minute later we realize we were standing about 10 feet apart. You'd think 'screw the reception' - you were yelling and still we had hearing problems!!! Yeah, and I gotta go see an ENT for hearing aids - no news there. I blame the Sony Walkman, but I digress.
Fair was fantastic & we'll head out again next year. If the Ks had THEIR way, we'd go everyday until it closes, but that's no surprise. Now if there's anyone out there who'd like to fund that, just let me know!
Now I didn't keep a good track on the food we ate - afterall, it IS all about the food - but here's a sampling anyway (we'll skip quantities and just shoot for an item list): bacon & egg sandwich, cheese curds, pronto pup, corn on the cob, chocolate malt, lemonade, chicken avacado pita, french fries, hamburger, chocolate dipped cheesecake (on a stick), kettle corn, and Sweet Martha's chocolate chip cookies (a pail made it home with us - how'd THAT happen???).
Our annual pics from the photo booth turned out well - K3 really didn't enjoy that, but the other 2 hammed it up. Sliding down the huge gunny sack slide (a tradition left over from my childhood) was another highlight. H & K2 had to stand at the top awhile - K2 was a 'bit' hesitant. Next year we'll get K3 on there. She'll be ready for sure.
The midway for the kids was their most favorite. We made 2 stops and when we weren't there they kept asking if we could GO there. What broken records.
Best part - H & I would frequently split & meet communicating via cell phones. Well, the last time we split, I called him - his reception stinks - and I had to yell into the phone. A minute later we realize we were standing about 10 feet apart. You'd think 'screw the reception' - you were yelling and still we had hearing problems!!! Yeah, and I gotta go see an ENT for hearing aids - no news there. I blame the Sony Walkman, but I digress.
Fair was fantastic & we'll head out again next year. If the Ks had THEIR way, we'd go everyday until it closes, but that's no surprise. Now if there's anyone out there who'd like to fund that, just let me know!
Friday, August 22, 2008
No more LONG drives
Well I HAD to find SOME upside to the end of the cabin season! The lake is still there - it is still terribly gorgeous. And we have to be home for a rip-roarin' few days before school starts.
En route home yesterday afternoon K2 threw out 'Why yes, that is certainly LOVELY.' I almost drove the truck off the road I was giggling so hard. Then this morning K1 was looking for her pencil box and couldn't find it - whilst talking to herself 'Where is it? Who hid my pencil box? blah blah blah.' K2 replies 'The pencil box is where you LEFT it!' Rock on K2. I completely burst out laughing, to which K1 got completely ticked off.
We had some great beach time at the lake and K1 did go tubing again. We did not see the bears though. Next year for sure. The wildlife was incredible. Wednesday we had seen a doe & fawn on the shore of an island en route to the beach. 9 ducks at the beach (K3 liked chasing those in an effort to pet them). Loons were out everywhere - the birds, not the people - mostly in twos, but there were a few w/their chicks from this year. And we ended up seeing about a dozen bald eagles. On 1 side of the boat there were 4 in 1 tree and that was amazing. Off the other side of the boat were 4 more 'fishing' - flying & swooping down to catch their lunch. About 1/4 mi. further was another tree w/ 4 more in it. I'd never seen so many in 1 day and so close. Way cool.
Did watch 1 new movie "The Bucket List" w/Jack Nicholson & Morgan Freeman. This was truly hysterical. 1.5 hours went very fast. Of course there'll be no sequel. Jack's character is a self-made gozillionaire who calls people whatever name he wants to. His personal assistant's actual name is Mathew, but he calls him Tom, Thomas & Tommy-Boy because Matthew is too 'biblical'. Morgan's character is a 'cliffy' type of man who breaks the news of the TRUE source of Jack's favorite beverage - and that will leave you LYAO. This is definitely an A movie and we'll be watching it again.
Dad informed me that he did start reading this blog. He has yet to get to the boat motor part....hehehehe. We'll see the kind of flack I catch for THAT one. I really only stated the truth, so we'll see how he takes it. Love ya, Dad!
Tomorrow is MN state Fair day where the K's will take part in the annual tradition of stuffing the family into one of those tiny photo booths. Should you come to our house, you'll find past ones posted on the frig. We'll see how many mini-doughnuts & pronto pups we end up downing. Go lemonade & Sweet Martha's chocolate chip cookies...YUM.
En route home yesterday afternoon K2 threw out 'Why yes, that is certainly LOVELY.' I almost drove the truck off the road I was giggling so hard. Then this morning K1 was looking for her pencil box and couldn't find it - whilst talking to herself 'Where is it? Who hid my pencil box? blah blah blah.' K2 replies 'The pencil box is where you LEFT it!' Rock on K2. I completely burst out laughing, to which K1 got completely ticked off.
We had some great beach time at the lake and K1 did go tubing again. We did not see the bears though. Next year for sure. The wildlife was incredible. Wednesday we had seen a doe & fawn on the shore of an island en route to the beach. 9 ducks at the beach (K3 liked chasing those in an effort to pet them). Loons were out everywhere - the birds, not the people - mostly in twos, but there were a few w/their chicks from this year. And we ended up seeing about a dozen bald eagles. On 1 side of the boat there were 4 in 1 tree and that was amazing. Off the other side of the boat were 4 more 'fishing' - flying & swooping down to catch their lunch. About 1/4 mi. further was another tree w/ 4 more in it. I'd never seen so many in 1 day and so close. Way cool.
Did watch 1 new movie "The Bucket List" w/Jack Nicholson & Morgan Freeman. This was truly hysterical. 1.5 hours went very fast. Of course there'll be no sequel. Jack's character is a self-made gozillionaire who calls people whatever name he wants to. His personal assistant's actual name is Mathew, but he calls him Tom, Thomas & Tommy-Boy because Matthew is too 'biblical'. Morgan's character is a 'cliffy' type of man who breaks the news of the TRUE source of Jack's favorite beverage - and that will leave you LYAO. This is definitely an A movie and we'll be watching it again.
Dad informed me that he did start reading this blog. He has yet to get to the boat motor part....hehehehe. We'll see the kind of flack I catch for THAT one. I really only stated the truth, so we'll see how he takes it. Love ya, Dad!
Tomorrow is MN state Fair day where the K's will take part in the annual tradition of stuffing the family into one of those tiny photo booths. Should you come to our house, you'll find past ones posted on the frig. We'll see how many mini-doughnuts & pronto pups we end up downing. Go lemonade & Sweet Martha's chocolate chip cookies...YUM.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
One more time...
We're heading to the lake one more time for this summer. I am so very pleased to have met my 6 week goal. It is rather bittersweet, but really, am I an a position to complain? Absolutely not. We'll see if we can't make a trip to Orr to see the bears too. There's is a bear sanctuary there. To know more visit www.americanbear.org . I like that the people are fenced in for a change!
We're just wrapping up our week for VBS. What a difference a little age makes. K2 is actually doing a wonderful job and having great fun. I now have high hopes for Sunday school this year - jeez, hope I don't get disappointed on that one.
K3 is having a blast throwing out new words. Some days she'll spit out 2 new ones. I have a feeling we have another 'yacker' in the midst. Great - we'll never have a quiet evening again...unless all kids are sleeping. But I guess if we wanted quiet, we shouldn't have had them. So we'll take the noise!
K1 is gearing up for school and is having a blast in the process. Now she figures whenever we go to a store that she has to have something. So we'll have to work our way out of THAT one because as you all know - I have no problems saying "NO!"
We're just wrapping up our week for VBS. What a difference a little age makes. K2 is actually doing a wonderful job and having great fun. I now have high hopes for Sunday school this year - jeez, hope I don't get disappointed on that one.
K3 is having a blast throwing out new words. Some days she'll spit out 2 new ones. I have a feeling we have another 'yacker' in the midst. Great - we'll never have a quiet evening again...unless all kids are sleeping. But I guess if we wanted quiet, we shouldn't have had them. So we'll take the noise!
K1 is gearing up for school and is having a blast in the process. Now she figures whenever we go to a store that she has to have something. So we'll have to work our way out of THAT one because as you all know - I have no problems saying "NO!"
Thursday, August 7, 2008
The Lake
Amazing stuff happened at the lake. K1 decided to float on a tube in the middle of the lake (tube tied to the boat w/a rope). I didn't think she'd reach this plateau until next year. A few days later she decides that she wants to try tubing behind the boat. You could have knocked me over w/a feather. She DID tube, 3 separate times. She didn't go all that fast - but this isn't something I expected out of her this year at all, so we were pretty excited for her.
K2 got beat up by K1 & K3 whilst minding his own business. Poor guy. K2 also had great leaps & bounds where boats and water is concerned. We'd arrive at the beach by boat and prior to getting off, all kids knew they were to get their sunscreen on. Before I could get to K3's sunscreen, he was off the dock, past the beach, in the lake & up to his armpits. The rest of us always needed a few minutes to get used to the water temp prior to getting in that deep - he just trudged right on in there. Go dude! K2 loved making sandcastles w/H. His most favorite part was stomping all over the masterpiece once it was completed, of course.
K3 will now: walk on grass barefoot, walk on sand barefoot, sit on sand & sit on a tube (w/assistance) in the lake. Wow! She was taught how to say 'mine' (thanks to my Dad - he's so proud that he taught all 3 Ks this word). She also learned 'Coke' (thanks to my Mom - it's her goal to have these 3 Grandkids taught how to fetch them for her).
The only movie watched that I hadn't already seen before was "Michael Clayton" w/George Clooney. I missed the 1st hour and caught the remainder. No expectations going in and it was decent. I'd watch it again, from the beginning this time! I'll give it a B (aka it wasn't jumping up and down awesome).
I picked up a soduku puzzle book Dad had laying around. I had tried these things, to no avail, before. I've got the beginner ones down now. Jeez are they addicting! Therefore I left the book at the lake - it can be a lake thing.
Picked up a Powerball ticket w/high hopes (ALWAYS!) Went online today and realized I'd won the highest amount our household has ever won with 1 ticket ... $7 (2 numbers + the Powerball). So YEA!!! Kicker was that I was only 1 number off getting TWO other ones. But off is off & close just isn't good enough to win the lotto. This reminds me of the last time Brent picked one up this summer. We had gone to 2 gas stations to fill the truck since we had some nice coupons that were about to expire. By chance he pulled into pump 5 at both places. The dollar amounts of both sales were $55 and some odd cents (both also in the 15 gallon range). So Brent figured it was a good day to try winning the PowerBall w/all this 5 business. He bought the ticket & handed it to me on our way home & told me why he bought it. I looked at the ticked and burst out laughing. "Did you look at this?" "No." "Did you do a quick pick?" "Yeah, why?" "The numbers...we should win for this story alone. They're: 5, 25, 35, 45, 55 w/a PowerBall of 15." This story is completely true and nothing was changed to protect any guilty party. Someday... we've got all the plans arranged, so when the stars align, we'll be ready!
K2 got beat up by K1 & K3 whilst minding his own business. Poor guy. K2 also had great leaps & bounds where boats and water is concerned. We'd arrive at the beach by boat and prior to getting off, all kids knew they were to get their sunscreen on. Before I could get to K3's sunscreen, he was off the dock, past the beach, in the lake & up to his armpits. The rest of us always needed a few minutes to get used to the water temp prior to getting in that deep - he just trudged right on in there. Go dude! K2 loved making sandcastles w/H. His most favorite part was stomping all over the masterpiece once it was completed, of course.
K3 will now: walk on grass barefoot, walk on sand barefoot, sit on sand & sit on a tube (w/assistance) in the lake. Wow! She was taught how to say 'mine' (thanks to my Dad - he's so proud that he taught all 3 Ks this word). She also learned 'Coke' (thanks to my Mom - it's her goal to have these 3 Grandkids taught how to fetch them for her).
The only movie watched that I hadn't already seen before was "Michael Clayton" w/George Clooney. I missed the 1st hour and caught the remainder. No expectations going in and it was decent. I'd watch it again, from the beginning this time! I'll give it a B (aka it wasn't jumping up and down awesome).
I picked up a soduku puzzle book Dad had laying around. I had tried these things, to no avail, before. I've got the beginner ones down now. Jeez are they addicting! Therefore I left the book at the lake - it can be a lake thing.
Picked up a Powerball ticket w/high hopes (ALWAYS!) Went online today and realized I'd won the highest amount our household has ever won with 1 ticket ... $7 (2 numbers + the Powerball). So YEA!!! Kicker was that I was only 1 number off getting TWO other ones. But off is off & close just isn't good enough to win the lotto. This reminds me of the last time Brent picked one up this summer. We had gone to 2 gas stations to fill the truck since we had some nice coupons that were about to expire. By chance he pulled into pump 5 at both places. The dollar amounts of both sales were $55 and some odd cents (both also in the 15 gallon range). So Brent figured it was a good day to try winning the PowerBall w/all this 5 business. He bought the ticket & handed it to me on our way home & told me why he bought it. I looked at the ticked and burst out laughing. "Did you look at this?" "No." "Did you do a quick pick?" "Yeah, why?" "The numbers...we should win for this story alone. They're: 5, 25, 35, 45, 55 w/a PowerBall of 15." This story is completely true and nothing was changed to protect any guilty party. Someday... we've got all the plans arranged, so when the stars align, we'll be ready!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
And we're back...darn it all anyway
Back from the cabin once more, and I am none to happy about it this time. When we left from our glorious 13 days in paradise, it was 75 & sunny & no humidity & a light breeze & big white puffy clouds in a beautiful bluer than blue sky. Who can beat THAT? We had 1 rainy day. We did have rain at night, but that's no biggie. The only thing that made coming home OK was knowing that we'd only be home for 9 days to return on day 10 for another week! That will be our 6th week this summer. For me this is a MAGIC number as it was my personal goal to spend 1/2 the summer at the cabin - and we're actually gonna make it! WAHOO!
Boat motors - whatdayado
Out on the lake 1 fine evening were my Mom, H's Mom with myself driving. We're 10 miles from the cabin and decide to turn around to get back before it's dark. We turn around and viola, H's Mom sees LIGHTNING. Lovely. So I speed up like any sane adult would do to try to really high-tail it back. All to no avail. Mr. boat motor was not going to cooperate. We ran for a minute and BEEP, red light & automatic idle. What the $#&*(#$ is THAT???? (This happened several times.) Running through my mind is that not only will we all be hit by lightening & killed, but my 3 kids won't have ANY of their female role models left in their life because they were all dumb and got dead out in the middle of a lake during a thunderstorm. Long story short, we made it back without being struck by lightning. However, we did happen to see TONS of fishing boats out happily fishing away during this thunderstorm - how smart are they anyway? We at least had an excuse. (Sucky motor!)
Back at the cabin I then grabbed Dad's motor manual to find the problem. I love these how-to-fix-it books...NOT. I did happen to get the the correct chapter on my 1st try - YEA ME! But since I didn't know exactly which model the motor was, I had to read practically the same things 5 & 6 times over until I narrowed down which was ours. OK, so I find 'the one'. Solution - the actual problem could be 1 of 11 things...literally.
Next - call Dad and chew him out because, of course, it is HIS fault. Hehehehe. Next day he arrives and takes said boat out for a spin - you know how these things go, machinery never makes mistakes while the fix-it person is around. I bet Mom $50 that it wouldn't happen - she should have bet me - it did it twice to him. Now on 1 hand I was absolutely tickled that that was the case. Frankly the night before I don't think he believed there really was an issue - you know - the woman driver thing. Well HA - there WAS - AND it even did it to HIM. But then on the other hand, then we had to narrow down the 11 items it COULD be to get to the 1 it actually WAS. Well, when all was said and done - and here is the kicker - it wasn't ANY of the 11 items listed in the manual. Isn't that always the case??? Gotta love those owner's manuals - who writes those things anyway? Do they READ what they write? I'm just curious if anyone knows...
It's late, I'm tired, and I'll have to catch y'all up w/the rest another day. There's lots to laugh at. And should you wish to hear the entire boat motor 'thing' - give me a call, I can't type it all...OK, I don't wanna type it all.
Boat motors - whatdayado
Out on the lake 1 fine evening were my Mom, H's Mom with myself driving. We're 10 miles from the cabin and decide to turn around to get back before it's dark. We turn around and viola, H's Mom sees LIGHTNING. Lovely. So I speed up like any sane adult would do to try to really high-tail it back. All to no avail. Mr. boat motor was not going to cooperate. We ran for a minute and BEEP, red light & automatic idle. What the $#&*(#$ is THAT???? (This happened several times.) Running through my mind is that not only will we all be hit by lightening & killed, but my 3 kids won't have ANY of their female role models left in their life because they were all dumb and got dead out in the middle of a lake during a thunderstorm. Long story short, we made it back without being struck by lightning. However, we did happen to see TONS of fishing boats out happily fishing away during this thunderstorm - how smart are they anyway? We at least had an excuse. (Sucky motor!)
Back at the cabin I then grabbed Dad's motor manual to find the problem. I love these how-to-fix-it books...NOT. I did happen to get the the correct chapter on my 1st try - YEA ME! But since I didn't know exactly which model the motor was, I had to read practically the same things 5 & 6 times over until I narrowed down which was ours. OK, so I find 'the one'. Solution - the actual problem could be 1 of 11 things...literally.
Next - call Dad and chew him out because, of course, it is HIS fault. Hehehehe. Next day he arrives and takes said boat out for a spin - you know how these things go, machinery never makes mistakes while the fix-it person is around. I bet Mom $50 that it wouldn't happen - she should have bet me - it did it twice to him. Now on 1 hand I was absolutely tickled that that was the case. Frankly the night before I don't think he believed there really was an issue - you know - the woman driver thing. Well HA - there WAS - AND it even did it to HIM. But then on the other hand, then we had to narrow down the 11 items it COULD be to get to the 1 it actually WAS. Well, when all was said and done - and here is the kicker - it wasn't ANY of the 11 items listed in the manual. Isn't that always the case??? Gotta love those owner's manuals - who writes those things anyway? Do they READ what they write? I'm just curious if anyone knows...
It's late, I'm tired, and I'll have to catch y'all up w/the rest another day. There's lots to laugh at. And should you wish to hear the entire boat motor 'thing' - give me a call, I can't type it all...OK, I don't wanna type it all.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Blueberry pie, horses & karate
Other than anything with chocolate, blueberry pie is my favorite. I am salivating just thinking about the stuff. I made one last Thursday and still have some in the frig. And might I just say - it completely ROCKS.
Yesterday K1 and I went to a friend's house to take pictures of her ponies. That is much more difficult than it seems, let me tell you. I took a lot of butt shots. But the ones that turned out well, I think, are more plentiful then the icky ones. So job well done...and thank God for digital cameras - AND DELETE buttons!!!
Then we put together some music. Got to tap into my music persona for a bit to structure a 2 minute song for a 'liberty' class at the national level. The songs we combined were: Wipe Out, I Like To Move It Move It, Fergalicious, Hot Stuff, Jungle Boogie, Macho Man, You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet, & We Will Rock You. And yes, they really all do go together! Can't wait to hear the final thing.
The funniest part of the day - K1 was playing around in the deserted restaurant while we were doing the music thing on a laptop. From the restaurant, you can see the bar portion of the facility. She comes back to the table "Mom, there are PIRATES in the bar!" WHAT? (a loud whisper) "Look Mom, PIRATES are in the bar!!!" Hummmmm - the pirates were bikers that had bandanas on their heads. TOO FUNNY! That'll stick with me awhile.
So Ks 1 & 2 went to go see "Kung Fu Panda" w/H today. After supper, K1 was practicing her very own personal version of karate in my living room. Knew that one was gonna happen. H said the movie was just OK, so I doubt that'll make the home DVD collection. But at least they had a good time. They followed that up w/the grocery shopping run. Always fun to have someone else take care of that one! Oh, K3 and I played and napped - Ahhhhhh.
Yesterday K1 and I went to a friend's house to take pictures of her ponies. That is much more difficult than it seems, let me tell you. I took a lot of butt shots. But the ones that turned out well, I think, are more plentiful then the icky ones. So job well done...and thank God for digital cameras - AND DELETE buttons!!!
Then we put together some music. Got to tap into my music persona for a bit to structure a 2 minute song for a 'liberty' class at the national level. The songs we combined were: Wipe Out, I Like To Move It Move It, Fergalicious, Hot Stuff, Jungle Boogie, Macho Man, You Ain't Seen Nothin' Yet, & We Will Rock You. And yes, they really all do go together! Can't wait to hear the final thing.
The funniest part of the day - K1 was playing around in the deserted restaurant while we were doing the music thing on a laptop. From the restaurant, you can see the bar portion of the facility. She comes back to the table "Mom, there are PIRATES in the bar!" WHAT? (a loud whisper) "Look Mom, PIRATES are in the bar!!!" Hummmmm - the pirates were bikers that had bandanas on their heads. TOO FUNNY! That'll stick with me awhile.
So Ks 1 & 2 went to go see "Kung Fu Panda" w/H today. After supper, K1 was practicing her very own personal version of karate in my living room. Knew that one was gonna happen. H said the movie was just OK, so I doubt that'll make the home DVD collection. But at least they had a good time. They followed that up w/the grocery shopping run. Always fun to have someone else take care of that one! Oh, K3 and I played and napped - Ahhhhhh.
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