My husband told me about a news item on the radio yesterday. He usually tells me because when I'm at home, I don't listen to the radio or watch the news...(like I need more negativity?)
Anyway, he told me that someone in Edwards presidential campaign made a statement while giving a speech at the Gay Parade in San Fran, that we needed a government based on science and not on religion. That wasn't the whole statement, and I'm afraid I haven't been able to find anything about it on the internet, (other than the speech happened - they made a bigger deal out of the gay bit instead of government) but the whole thing gives me chills.
The idea that we need a national government that has no moral center, is worse than what we have now. And...leads to anarchy. It's a scary thought. There are so many people that want to be free FROM religion and all the 'rules and regulations' that are involved with religion. I want to ask those who are parents what they are thinking? Don't they want their children to know right from wrong? Don't they want a government that has rules and expectations for each member of society?
Our nation was founded on the belief in God. Not in the absence or avoidance, but the belief. It was founded on the Freedom OF Religion. I know I've remarked on this before, but it really gets me. I love this nation.
I would advise anyone who hates it so badly to go live somewhere else for a while and see how bad it is then. Go on - go live in England. At lease they are a democracy (sort of). Or...better yet, go live in some South American country and see how you like the government there.
Everyone hates it here, everyone complains about taxes and benefits...no one thinks about what they could be doing about it, or how they have the ability to even complain about it all!! Try doing that in some other countries and see where it gets you.
I have an acquaintance who's daughter is in Argentina. She has discovered first hand that the government there could care less about the family or what they are doing. It wants it's rules followed, and if not, you can leave.
Sometimes I think that's what we need to do here. We've been the only country in the world that has welcomed those who wanted freedom. Unfortunately, there are many who say it's time to end that. And...there are many who would create a mini country of their own here.
Welcome to America. We speak English. We welcome you as long as you desire to learn our language and contribute to society.
That's what we should be saying. I realize I went from one subject to another, but that's life as I see it.
I'm very thankful to be here. God bless the USA.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Farewell to Amnity
Well..I read yesterday that Cindy Sheehan decided to give up her stand as an activist and go home to live 'normal' for a while. I guess we can all take a big breath of relief, right? We don't have to worry about her anymore?
Just because Mr. Rocky A decided to stand with her, I don't think I was really worried about her - it was more what she was saying to the soldiers that are currently serving. It was like another Vietnam - only bigger because she got so much press out of it.
My biggest sorrow is for her son. He must feel sooo badly, knowing that she has done this for the American soldier. He is probably broken hearted. And what kills me, is that she says 'the land I no longer love'...well, then move. You can go somewhere else where the government doesn't care about you, and the soldiers won't fight for you and find out what life is like. I'm sure there will be loads ready to help you pack.
But you are going home to peace and relative immunity to your actions. What does that say about the country you no longer love?
I think your son is crying for you. Are you ever going to hear him?
Just because Mr. Rocky A decided to stand with her, I don't think I was really worried about her - it was more what she was saying to the soldiers that are currently serving. It was like another Vietnam - only bigger because she got so much press out of it.
My biggest sorrow is for her son. He must feel sooo badly, knowing that she has done this for the American soldier. He is probably broken hearted. And what kills me, is that she says 'the land I no longer love'...well, then move. You can go somewhere else where the government doesn't care about you, and the soldiers won't fight for you and find out what life is like. I'm sure there will be loads ready to help you pack.
But you are going home to peace and relative immunity to your actions. What does that say about the country you no longer love?
I think your son is crying for you. Are you ever going to hear him?
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Way to Go...
Well...I realized I hadn't posted anything here for quite awhile. Partly because there hasn't been anything I wanted to waste my time with politically, and partly because I've been busy. I have to say though...the debate last week was quite the example of the problems facing this country. If anyone outside of Utah watched it, I'm sure they were wondering what was up with the whole thing.
I thought Hannidy did a great job, but I also thought the Mayor had good points. Unfortunately, the audience was very ill mannered, and I'm embarrassed for us. How could we be so rude to people who came to debate in our state because we asked them to???
Anyway, there was a statement in the paper afterward that the person was worried about our country, because it definitely showed a division. I think she was right. I think it showed a greater problem than just politics, although I think that is the biggest part.
It gives me shivers of the civil war, and that's really scary. So many people are so sure their opinion is what's right...on both sides of the issues. Everyone is so sensitive to what is being said, they aren't listening or doing what needs to be done.
Just Monday some preacher made a comment in a debate he was in that those who 'believed in God' would win the day over Mit Romney. Well...apparently no one understood that he was talking about believe in God generally, not that he was saying Mit Romney didn't believe in God. He might not believe in the same God, but everyone knows he believes in God...sigh. it's crazy.
I'm really worried about our country and where it's headed.
If everything is politics, and nothing is about the country or the people the politics are supposed to serve, what purpose does the politics serve? None. It becomes a mute point that should be addressed.
I thought Hannidy did a great job, but I also thought the Mayor had good points. Unfortunately, the audience was very ill mannered, and I'm embarrassed for us. How could we be so rude to people who came to debate in our state because we asked them to???
Anyway, there was a statement in the paper afterward that the person was worried about our country, because it definitely showed a division. I think she was right. I think it showed a greater problem than just politics, although I think that is the biggest part.
It gives me shivers of the civil war, and that's really scary. So many people are so sure their opinion is what's right...on both sides of the issues. Everyone is so sensitive to what is being said, they aren't listening or doing what needs to be done.
Just Monday some preacher made a comment in a debate he was in that those who 'believed in God' would win the day over Mit Romney. Well...apparently no one understood that he was talking about believe in God generally, not that he was saying Mit Romney didn't believe in God. He might not believe in the same God, but everyone knows he believes in God...sigh. it's crazy.
I'm really worried about our country and where it's headed.
If everything is politics, and nothing is about the country or the people the politics are supposed to serve, what purpose does the politics serve? None. It becomes a mute point that should be addressed.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Can we Impeach a Mayor?
Okay...I've given this a lot of thought, and due to his own words, I think we can impeach our state's largest city's Mayor. What do you think? The guy is a dweeb, doesn't do anything for our state except draw negative attention, and likes to use the taxpayers money to flout the office of the President of the United States. I mean...get a life.. Preferrably outside of the state, if you know what I mean. I think Nevada could use you, don't they like Hilary? Or wait...maybe that's some state back east...
The man has even been re-elected. I don't know how he got elected in the first place, we didn't vote for him. We were really thankful to move after he got there, I promise. I figure I'm just as open minded as the next person, but I'm also very patriotic.
When this guy takes taxpayers money and flies back east to bash the President, that just peeves me a little. I realize that President bashing is popular right now, in fact, that's probably the most popular thing you can do.
From what I understand, his approval rating is at the lowest any president has ever been...like bar none. If anyone cares to remember, his approval rating was also the highest any president ever was right after 9/11. How quickly we forget.
You know, I feel so bad for the man. He has made a few mistakes, but you know, everyone seems to forget he does not have all the power!! He is only 1/3 of it in washington, and he doesn't always get his way. There are a lot of people out there trying to thwart his every move and every thought. There are many media people out there slandering and mocking and downgrading everything he tries to do. Especially what's going on in Iraq. I had the pleasure of listening to a man who lived there for a while and helped set up the different city organizations after 2001.
He wrote a book called The Enigma of Iraq, and it looks mighty interesting. I know a lot of people don't read this, and I guess I don't care - I write it to spout off and get things off my chest. But if anyone chances to read this and looks up this book, I'll have done at least a small service to my country. This man has been there - he knows what is really happening. And he could tell you all about it, in much better language than the leading newspaper. Seek the truth...you might find it. It just might not be the truth your looking for - especially if you are a Democrat.
The man has even been re-elected. I don't know how he got elected in the first place, we didn't vote for him. We were really thankful to move after he got there, I promise. I figure I'm just as open minded as the next person, but I'm also very patriotic.
When this guy takes taxpayers money and flies back east to bash the President, that just peeves me a little. I realize that President bashing is popular right now, in fact, that's probably the most popular thing you can do.
From what I understand, his approval rating is at the lowest any president has ever been...like bar none. If anyone cares to remember, his approval rating was also the highest any president ever was right after 9/11. How quickly we forget.
You know, I feel so bad for the man. He has made a few mistakes, but you know, everyone seems to forget he does not have all the power!! He is only 1/3 of it in washington, and he doesn't always get his way. There are a lot of people out there trying to thwart his every move and every thought. There are many media people out there slandering and mocking and downgrading everything he tries to do. Especially what's going on in Iraq. I had the pleasure of listening to a man who lived there for a while and helped set up the different city organizations after 2001.
He wrote a book called The Enigma of Iraq, and it looks mighty interesting. I know a lot of people don't read this, and I guess I don't care - I write it to spout off and get things off my chest. But if anyone chances to read this and looks up this book, I'll have done at least a small service to my country. This man has been there - he knows what is really happening. And he could tell you all about it, in much better language than the leading newspaper. Seek the truth...you might find it. It just might not be the truth your looking for - especially if you are a Democrat.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Well...at least he didn't shoot her...
On the way to work this morning, I listened to a short blurb about a coming talk show that was going to be discussing last nights speech by President Bush. The commentator was expressing his frustration with the general press, and how they reacted. He said one guy that he usually admires, made totally off the wall remarks. He was saying "did he watch the same speech I did?"
It has come to the point where the President can't win--no matter what he does. Everyone is all saying how low he is in the polls...as if he cares. (I think if he really cared about the polls, he would be doing what everyone wants him to be doing and nothing would be getting done. ) Everyone is all up in arms about what is happening with the War.
I thought the speech went well. No, it was not some history making memorial thing like John F. K's was...and I would much rather have George W. Bush than JFK any day; he was scary and no one knew it until he was dead. (I mean this in a morality way...somehow he managed to lead the country well..)
It was depressing to watch and know that people were being watched for which part of the speech they stood up for, clapped for, and it was obvious when it was a subject the Republicans were excited with and when the Demos weren't happy. It was hilarious to watch ol' what's her face-speaker of the house-sit next to the Vice Pres. She kept swallowing as if she was going to have dinner come back any minute--I wondered if it was a tick of some kind.
It was a typical thing to have the people honored at the end of the speech and have outlined how they represented all that is good in our country. It was fun to actually see the guy that dove under the train. I keep feeling like it's a real live While You Were Sleeping moment. It was great to see the guy from Africa that was doing his part for his native land while becoming a US citizen.
All in all...I'm still for the guy. I think he has done loads for this country, and that the guys in the senate and congress are the ones that have mired the legal and governmental aspects of our country in muck. They refused to work with the man--party lines and all that. I say throw out the parties. There needs to be more than two. Those two parties have gotten to the point where they have lost the idea of what made this country great and what is the GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY!! President Bush tried to get both parties to work together, but they were biased against him from the start. So...here we sit, worried about what befalls us in a year.
I'm scared to death that Hilary Clinton might actually make it to the white house. I thought one Clinton was damaging enough. And I actually read a blurb that said she thought her husband would be an 'asset to her presidency'!! ARGH Perhaps that was mislabeled... I'm sure he was more like a donkey than any help while in office.
Anyway...I didn't mean to get off on the subject of past painful episodes of the leaders of our country, I just wanted to say that I thought he did well. I thought he covered all the bases, and I think it's time for the press to get off their biased buts and report the truth (like what's really happening in Iraq and how much good is going on) instead of what they get paid to print...
But that's just me.
It has come to the point where the President can't win--no matter what he does. Everyone is all saying how low he is in the polls...as if he cares. (I think if he really cared about the polls, he would be doing what everyone wants him to be doing and nothing would be getting done. ) Everyone is all up in arms about what is happening with the War.
I thought the speech went well. No, it was not some history making memorial thing like John F. K's was...and I would much rather have George W. Bush than JFK any day; he was scary and no one knew it until he was dead. (I mean this in a morality way...somehow he managed to lead the country well..)
It was depressing to watch and know that people were being watched for which part of the speech they stood up for, clapped for, and it was obvious when it was a subject the Republicans were excited with and when the Demos weren't happy. It was hilarious to watch ol' what's her face-speaker of the house-sit next to the Vice Pres. She kept swallowing as if she was going to have dinner come back any minute--I wondered if it was a tick of some kind.
It was a typical thing to have the people honored at the end of the speech and have outlined how they represented all that is good in our country. It was fun to actually see the guy that dove under the train. I keep feeling like it's a real live While You Were Sleeping moment. It was great to see the guy from Africa that was doing his part for his native land while becoming a US citizen.
All in all...I'm still for the guy. I think he has done loads for this country, and that the guys in the senate and congress are the ones that have mired the legal and governmental aspects of our country in muck. They refused to work with the man--party lines and all that. I say throw out the parties. There needs to be more than two. Those two parties have gotten to the point where they have lost the idea of what made this country great and what is the GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY!! President Bush tried to get both parties to work together, but they were biased against him from the start. So...here we sit, worried about what befalls us in a year.
I'm scared to death that Hilary Clinton might actually make it to the white house. I thought one Clinton was damaging enough. And I actually read a blurb that said she thought her husband would be an 'asset to her presidency'!! ARGH Perhaps that was mislabeled... I'm sure he was more like a donkey than any help while in office.
Anyway...I didn't mean to get off on the subject of past painful episodes of the leaders of our country, I just wanted to say that I thought he did well. I thought he covered all the bases, and I think it's time for the press to get off their biased buts and report the truth (like what's really happening in Iraq and how much good is going on) instead of what they get paid to print...
But that's just me.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Happy New Year...ya Wild Animal
One of my favorite Christmas movies is Home Alone. The first one. This kid just cracks me up. What really amazes me is what he is able to do at 8 years old. MY children would never have dreamed up half the stuff he does at that age. It would be more accurate in my family if they were teenagers and having a war with burglars. I can see it now...LOL.
I don't know why he is so drawn to the old movies of gangsters...but it seems to serve him well. I figured the little expression used by the old man in both movies worked well here too. All of us have animal natures inside. They are either tamed or wild...or should I say domestic or not? grin. But the point is, most of the time, New Years is celebrated by the wild animals.
This is going to be a strange year for me...I have lots I'm planning on doing. How about you? lots of New Year resolutions? I stopped making resolutions a long time ago. I make goals as I need them through the year. I have enough to deal with without the thought that I have some yearly goal hanging over my head.
So...I'm wishing you a Happy New Year...and I hope you are able to accomplish all you want...you wild animal, you!
I don't know why he is so drawn to the old movies of gangsters...but it seems to serve him well. I figured the little expression used by the old man in both movies worked well here too. All of us have animal natures inside. They are either tamed or wild...or should I say domestic or not? grin. But the point is, most of the time, New Years is celebrated by the wild animals.
This is going to be a strange year for me...I have lots I'm planning on doing. How about you? lots of New Year resolutions? I stopped making resolutions a long time ago. I make goals as I need them through the year. I have enough to deal with without the thought that I have some yearly goal hanging over my head.
So...I'm wishing you a Happy New Year...and I hope you are able to accomplish all you want...you wild animal, you!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Elections come and go--please!
Well...it's that time again. Yes...I'm talking about elections. Where everyone divides into camps (well...they usually do anyway) and try and convince everyone to vote for their favorite person. That person usually tries to convince everyone that they are the best choice--depending on what the issues are.
But does everyone really know the issues? And what does it matter what party anyway? My husband had a great idea--let's get rid of all parties and just have people vote. The party thing is getting totally out of hand. If you don't agree with the two major parties, your vote goes no where. There is no chance for an Independent, for example, to get elected president. That was proven out several years ago when one man came pretty darn close...but close only counts in handgrenades and horseshoes, right?
I happened to see a list of all the parties available in my state to vote under. I was amazed! There were actually 18 different parties! What in the world? And most of those people will never see print anywhere in the city paper. But they believe in their position enough to try another course.
Personally, I was raised Independent. My parents voted however they felt the candidate was best for the position. Usually Republican, but whatever. I remember when Nixon was running. I was soooo for him...it's embarrassing to remember that now. I pushed for him with everyone else in my neighborhood. California didn't know what they were doing, huh? Sigh.
There are times when I think the presidency is only a figurehead. A scapegoat when things aren't going the way you want, and a banner boy for when they are. Most presidents don't get the credit they deserve because what they have accomplished is something that doesn't take effect or you don't see the fruits of until they have been replaced. Their replacement gets the credit. (ugh...like Clinton got the credit for Bush)
I guess you'll find I lean more toward Republicans...simply because I don't have much of a choice otherwise. No one has convinced the rest of the republicans that an Independent is going to get anything accomplished in the white house. The pure fact of religion is against you too.
If you are anything other than protestant, catholic or a main stream religion, it's going to hound you during your campaign, and unless you are extremely charismatic, honest to the core, and great with talking---it's not going to happen.
Well...the word is that the Dems have taken control of the house. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing, but I don't think it's great either. My husband is desperately afraid that they will ruin the last two years of Bush's presidency...push a Democratic president in there, end the war in Iraq at ALL or ANY cost, and cause us to be at war again because the terrorists will find no reason not to attack us at home again. We'll have a 9/11 again, and this time the whole 18 year old male thing will come into play and our son's will be called to fight. It's not a pretty picture.
I'm hoping he's wrong. But, I hate to say it, he's generally right.
Stupid is as stupid does... politics.
But does everyone really know the issues? And what does it matter what party anyway? My husband had a great idea--let's get rid of all parties and just have people vote. The party thing is getting totally out of hand. If you don't agree with the two major parties, your vote goes no where. There is no chance for an Independent, for example, to get elected president. That was proven out several years ago when one man came pretty darn close...but close only counts in handgrenades and horseshoes, right?
I happened to see a list of all the parties available in my state to vote under. I was amazed! There were actually 18 different parties! What in the world? And most of those people will never see print anywhere in the city paper. But they believe in their position enough to try another course.
Personally, I was raised Independent. My parents voted however they felt the candidate was best for the position. Usually Republican, but whatever. I remember when Nixon was running. I was soooo for him...it's embarrassing to remember that now. I pushed for him with everyone else in my neighborhood. California didn't know what they were doing, huh? Sigh.
There are times when I think the presidency is only a figurehead. A scapegoat when things aren't going the way you want, and a banner boy for when they are. Most presidents don't get the credit they deserve because what they have accomplished is something that doesn't take effect or you don't see the fruits of until they have been replaced. Their replacement gets the credit. (ugh...like Clinton got the credit for Bush)
I guess you'll find I lean more toward Republicans...simply because I don't have much of a choice otherwise. No one has convinced the rest of the republicans that an Independent is going to get anything accomplished in the white house. The pure fact of religion is against you too.
If you are anything other than protestant, catholic or a main stream religion, it's going to hound you during your campaign, and unless you are extremely charismatic, honest to the core, and great with talking---it's not going to happen.
Well...the word is that the Dems have taken control of the house. I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing, but I don't think it's great either. My husband is desperately afraid that they will ruin the last two years of Bush's presidency...push a Democratic president in there, end the war in Iraq at ALL or ANY cost, and cause us to be at war again because the terrorists will find no reason not to attack us at home again. We'll have a 9/11 again, and this time the whole 18 year old male thing will come into play and our son's will be called to fight. It's not a pretty picture.
I'm hoping he's wrong. But, I hate to say it, he's generally right.
Stupid is as stupid does... politics.
Friday, September 22, 2006
New AND Improved???
Okay...does the flashy title New and Improved bother anyone else? I got to looking at a bottle of mouse the other day, and had to shake my head. If it was new in the first place, how could it be improved already??? And if it wasn't new and just improved, why not just say newly improved or like I've seen...new improved formula type thing. But new AND improved? That's just scary. Makes you wonder what is going on in people's minds. Of course we buy it anyway...
Monday, September 11, 2006
I will Never Forget
Well...on this 5th anniversary of 9/11, I am going to send forth my voice into the void to join the many thousands other who are voicing their opinions. Not just on this day, but every day. I feel that even though it's likely my voice will not be heard above the rabble and the craziness, I still need to exercise the privilege of this country and express myself.
I have to say these things, because I would be doing my father a disservice by remaining quiet. I wrote a short story for a contest a couple of months ago, and I am putting the link here so that if anyone would like to read it, they can access it. I wrote this story of fiction, using memories of my family as background.
http://www.writing.com/main/view_item/item_id/1101204
My father was a Ranger in WWII. He survived D-day to become a hero in my eyes. My grandfather was in WWI in the Navy. He was some sort of rank, but other than a photo of him in uniform with lots of medals on his chest, I don't know what it was. I currently have two nephews serving in the armed forces, one of which has been to Afghanistan and been in the 'hot zone'.
What I am trying to say, is that I come from a military background. I probably have a different perspective than others on war and the military. I do not seek war, I wish and pray for peace. But, I realize that our freedom came at a cost, and it's a cost that is needing to be continually paid. Whatever be the current rumors and misleading newscasts...despite what might end up being the true story behind 9/11--the top thing we must always remember is how our firefighters and police and emergency personnel responded in an emergency within our nation. How they shored up our faith and showed courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
There was an article in the paper on Saturday that talked about a group call the Truth Commission (or something to that effect) and how they have uncovered a plot (or conspiracy theory) by the government to cause the greater tragedy on 9/11 by bombing the lower portion of the towers so that they would fall. There was no reason (in this article, proclaimed by this group) for the towers to fall in such a way. They should have toppled over, not collapsed in on themselves.
I am not an engineer. I do not know anything about buildings. However-I have seen several demolitions of buildings and watched how they came down. I have seen the films of 9/11 several times, including last night's special on channel 2 (NBC?) and I have come to the conclusion in my inexpertness, that they could not have been bombed in such a way...but that's a side issue.
What I wanted to proclaim in my small blog on this memorial day, is that we are doing the right thing. That we should never forget this day or December 7th because these were days that mark tragedy in our country. These were days that brave men and women died to save others--in an attack by foreign countries on our soil. These were courageous people who died trying to save innocent ones and we should never forget. The flag should always be flown, not just on today. Our great nation might be struggling at this point to find itself amid the chaos of politics, but the people are still great. We still have a fight to fight. We must still keep our freedoms. We have to strike out against those that would destroy those freedoms and the innocents in our country. There could still be a strike on our country at any time, despite the security measures which have given us a measure of safety.
Yes, I can understand where people are confused, but perhaps I never knew the whole facts. I had no idea that they were going after Saddam himself, it was Osama from the beginning. And despite what the news tells you, there is much that has happened that most will never know because it's not being let out. They will never broadcast that WMD have been found in Iraq, despite being old and perhaps no longer useful, they are still there. They were found. And despite the fact that everyone thinks we are only there because of the oil--we have been able to free a people that haven't known freedom in generations. My nephew has told us of how thankful people are that we are there! Is that something you've heard on the news? Of course not! That would say that we are doing something good. All we hear about is the soldiers that die.
I happen to live in a state that is rather conservative. Our capitol city, however, has a mayor that has decided to make a name for himself, despite the damage it does to our state, and has spoken out against the President. He has suggested that he needs to be impeached--that this war against terror is a crime.
The crime is what is being fed to the nation by the media. The crime is that those who enjoy our nation of free speech would try and silence those who speak out against them.
These are the times that try the hearts of men. That is an old quote and I'm sorry I don't know who said it, but it's as true now as it was then. We were united as a nation after 9/11. We were strong. We knew what needed to be done. But time fades the sharpness of the pain, the fear that we lived with, the empty skies for almost a week afterward. We are human, and as such, tend to forget things, or lessen them with time.
THAT CANNOT HAPPEN!! WE must never forget!
Now suddenly our patriotism is slack...there aren't as many flags flying as there were that fall, are there? Do you have a flag in the front of your house? On your car? Are your children proud to be called an American? More importantly are you???
You live in a nation where you can do pretty much anything you want to do for a living. You can travel anywhere within it's confines without worrying about being searched or asked questions (unless you choose to fly, and there is no problem on my part with that). You have the right to question the leaders and ask them to account for what they do. You have the right to criticize those around you. You have so many rights and privileges that many people only dream about. Remember what they say about our nation (or used to) -- The land of dreams???
Well...for many, it still is. We still have sooo much, while others do not, and they are always going to be jealous of those things. We are always going to have to defend our rights. There are times when the politics gets in the way of what is right, and what needs to be done. The majority of our nation is good. The greater part of our leaders (I think) are good. I think President Bush has done an amazing job in the face of all the negative publicity and name bashing. Think of what the press has done to this man and our nation. What other country in the world would allow such slander??? (Okay...slander is if it's in print?)
I do not align myself with any particular political party. I was raised to be an independent thinker. Right now, both the major political parties are mixed up and messed up. They do NOT think of what's good for the people, only what's good for the party...what is good politics. My husband made a suggestion the other day, that we should dump both parties and start over. Everyone is so power hungry, they forget what is important.
WE THE PEOPLE.
I've already gotten far more carried away than I meant to. But this is an important issue--one which I think every American needs to take note of. WE Can NEVER Forget!!! Once we start forgetting, we do not place the value on things that need to be. We don't give freedom such a rating as it should have.
I hope everyone takes a moment to honor those who have gone before us, either in war or tragedy and silently give thanks for their sacrifice. That we can be where we are, doing what we are doing with the freedoms that we have.
Never Forget.
I have to say these things, because I would be doing my father a disservice by remaining quiet. I wrote a short story for a contest a couple of months ago, and I am putting the link here so that if anyone would like to read it, they can access it. I wrote this story of fiction, using memories of my family as background.
http://www.writing.com/main/view_item/item_id/1101204
My father was a Ranger in WWII. He survived D-day to become a hero in my eyes. My grandfather was in WWI in the Navy. He was some sort of rank, but other than a photo of him in uniform with lots of medals on his chest, I don't know what it was. I currently have two nephews serving in the armed forces, one of which has been to Afghanistan and been in the 'hot zone'.
What I am trying to say, is that I come from a military background. I probably have a different perspective than others on war and the military. I do not seek war, I wish and pray for peace. But, I realize that our freedom came at a cost, and it's a cost that is needing to be continually paid. Whatever be the current rumors and misleading newscasts...despite what might end up being the true story behind 9/11--the top thing we must always remember is how our firefighters and police and emergency personnel responded in an emergency within our nation. How they shored up our faith and showed courage and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
There was an article in the paper on Saturday that talked about a group call the Truth Commission (or something to that effect) and how they have uncovered a plot (or conspiracy theory) by the government to cause the greater tragedy on 9/11 by bombing the lower portion of the towers so that they would fall. There was no reason (in this article, proclaimed by this group) for the towers to fall in such a way. They should have toppled over, not collapsed in on themselves.
I am not an engineer. I do not know anything about buildings. However-I have seen several demolitions of buildings and watched how they came down. I have seen the films of 9/11 several times, including last night's special on channel 2 (NBC?) and I have come to the conclusion in my inexpertness, that they could not have been bombed in such a way...but that's a side issue.
What I wanted to proclaim in my small blog on this memorial day, is that we are doing the right thing. That we should never forget this day or December 7th because these were days that mark tragedy in our country. These were days that brave men and women died to save others--in an attack by foreign countries on our soil. These were courageous people who died trying to save innocent ones and we should never forget. The flag should always be flown, not just on today. Our great nation might be struggling at this point to find itself amid the chaos of politics, but the people are still great. We still have a fight to fight. We must still keep our freedoms. We have to strike out against those that would destroy those freedoms and the innocents in our country. There could still be a strike on our country at any time, despite the security measures which have given us a measure of safety.
Yes, I can understand where people are confused, but perhaps I never knew the whole facts. I had no idea that they were going after Saddam himself, it was Osama from the beginning. And despite what the news tells you, there is much that has happened that most will never know because it's not being let out. They will never broadcast that WMD have been found in Iraq, despite being old and perhaps no longer useful, they are still there. They were found. And despite the fact that everyone thinks we are only there because of the oil--we have been able to free a people that haven't known freedom in generations. My nephew has told us of how thankful people are that we are there! Is that something you've heard on the news? Of course not! That would say that we are doing something good. All we hear about is the soldiers that die.
I happen to live in a state that is rather conservative. Our capitol city, however, has a mayor that has decided to make a name for himself, despite the damage it does to our state, and has spoken out against the President. He has suggested that he needs to be impeached--that this war against terror is a crime.
The crime is what is being fed to the nation by the media. The crime is that those who enjoy our nation of free speech would try and silence those who speak out against them.
These are the times that try the hearts of men. That is an old quote and I'm sorry I don't know who said it, but it's as true now as it was then. We were united as a nation after 9/11. We were strong. We knew what needed to be done. But time fades the sharpness of the pain, the fear that we lived with, the empty skies for almost a week afterward. We are human, and as such, tend to forget things, or lessen them with time.
THAT CANNOT HAPPEN!! WE must never forget!
Now suddenly our patriotism is slack...there aren't as many flags flying as there were that fall, are there? Do you have a flag in the front of your house? On your car? Are your children proud to be called an American? More importantly are you???
You live in a nation where you can do pretty much anything you want to do for a living. You can travel anywhere within it's confines without worrying about being searched or asked questions (unless you choose to fly, and there is no problem on my part with that). You have the right to question the leaders and ask them to account for what they do. You have the right to criticize those around you. You have so many rights and privileges that many people only dream about. Remember what they say about our nation (or used to) -- The land of dreams???
Well...for many, it still is. We still have sooo much, while others do not, and they are always going to be jealous of those things. We are always going to have to defend our rights. There are times when the politics gets in the way of what is right, and what needs to be done. The majority of our nation is good. The greater part of our leaders (I think) are good. I think President Bush has done an amazing job in the face of all the negative publicity and name bashing. Think of what the press has done to this man and our nation. What other country in the world would allow such slander??? (Okay...slander is if it's in print?)
I do not align myself with any particular political party. I was raised to be an independent thinker. Right now, both the major political parties are mixed up and messed up. They do NOT think of what's good for the people, only what's good for the party...what is good politics. My husband made a suggestion the other day, that we should dump both parties and start over. Everyone is so power hungry, they forget what is important.
WE THE PEOPLE.
I've already gotten far more carried away than I meant to. But this is an important issue--one which I think every American needs to take note of. WE Can NEVER Forget!!! Once we start forgetting, we do not place the value on things that need to be. We don't give freedom such a rating as it should have.
I hope everyone takes a moment to honor those who have gone before us, either in war or tragedy and silently give thanks for their sacrifice. That we can be where we are, doing what we are doing with the freedoms that we have.
Never Forget.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Ignorant Sales People Beware
I had the most obnoxious experience last week. I was trying to get a picture framed for the upcoming county fair that I was entering, and they messed up the mat for it. Twice. First, I went in and they said there was no way they could frame it for me within the time limit. They were looking at outwards of a week.
I gulped and figured I'd framed my own pictures once upon a time, I could do it again. Fine. How long would it take to cut the mat? They could do that by the evening. I said fine. Then I saw the cost. 4 cuts and it was $18???? Expensive paper...
Anyway, I go back the next morning (trying to be a gas saving consumer and be efficient in my errands...grin) and pick up the mat. I get to looking at it later that day, and realize that it is TOO BIG FOR THE FRAME. We are not talking about just a little...but WAY too big to fit in the glassed area. I couldn't believe it. I mean, THEY measured it! So, I take it back, pretty steamed, wanting to just return the whole thing and go to a different craft store, which has told me they could frame it for me before Saturday!
Of course not. I take it to the customer service area, and they call the manager who then takes me to the back. We talk to the person who cut it, and wow...no problem, they'll just trim it for me, it will take no time at all. Sure....
So, he cuts it again for me. Hey, I'm sorry, ya know? yeah.
I get home, and the next night get ready to put it together, since I hadn't had a minute before then. It's still too big. By a mere 1/8th of an inch... I couldn't believe it. We had to go back the first thing Saturday morning (I had to get it in there before noon) and show them the mat. The lady was the rudest I have ever seen. Like it was an imposition for her to have to cut it! I'm thinking, you know what??? You guys just lost my business.
At least at this point they could have offered to put it together for me for free!
I used to deal with customers on a daily business when we owned our own pizza store. There were rude ones, and there were sweet ones. I tried to be nice and civil to all of them....with the moto "The customer is Always right" as my goal. I know I never treated anyone like I was treated that day. I was barely able to think about a come back...let alone voice one.
We went to the customer service desk and asked to see the manager, who was of course not in the store. At that point, we left. I do not plan on going back, no matter how much closer they are than the other store. I like the other store better anyway. I only went to the one store because it was more convenient.
I think I'm still going to send their management a letter. I was the customer this time, and I WAS right.
I gulped and figured I'd framed my own pictures once upon a time, I could do it again. Fine. How long would it take to cut the mat? They could do that by the evening. I said fine. Then I saw the cost. 4 cuts and it was $18???? Expensive paper...
Anyway, I go back the next morning (trying to be a gas saving consumer and be efficient in my errands...grin) and pick up the mat. I get to looking at it later that day, and realize that it is TOO BIG FOR THE FRAME. We are not talking about just a little...but WAY too big to fit in the glassed area. I couldn't believe it. I mean, THEY measured it! So, I take it back, pretty steamed, wanting to just return the whole thing and go to a different craft store, which has told me they could frame it for me before Saturday!
Of course not. I take it to the customer service area, and they call the manager who then takes me to the back. We talk to the person who cut it, and wow...no problem, they'll just trim it for me, it will take no time at all. Sure....
So, he cuts it again for me. Hey, I'm sorry, ya know? yeah.
I get home, and the next night get ready to put it together, since I hadn't had a minute before then. It's still too big. By a mere 1/8th of an inch... I couldn't believe it. We had to go back the first thing Saturday morning (I had to get it in there before noon) and show them the mat. The lady was the rudest I have ever seen. Like it was an imposition for her to have to cut it! I'm thinking, you know what??? You guys just lost my business.
At least at this point they could have offered to put it together for me for free!
I used to deal with customers on a daily business when we owned our own pizza store. There were rude ones, and there were sweet ones. I tried to be nice and civil to all of them....with the moto "The customer is Always right" as my goal. I know I never treated anyone like I was treated that day. I was barely able to think about a come back...let alone voice one.
We went to the customer service desk and asked to see the manager, who was of course not in the store. At that point, we left. I do not plan on going back, no matter how much closer they are than the other store. I like the other store better anyway. I only went to the one store because it was more convenient.
I think I'm still going to send their management a letter. I was the customer this time, and I WAS right.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Ignoring the World
Well...part of the reason I haven't posted in a while is that I've been ignoring the real world and focusing on my own little corner.
I haven't been angry with the local big city yeeha mayor that I'm usually fuming over, I've paid little attention to the silly little country that Israel is bombing the heck out of (deservedly so) and I've been hiding away in my basement during the hot hours of the day, trying to keep from loosing all my excess weight in sweat, although I'd probably pay money if that were to really happen... grin.
I know there are people who pay big money for those sweat suits that make you loose like 4 pounds in two hours just sweating...what they don't tell you is that you gain back three of those the minute you step out of it and start drinking water to keep from drying up into a pile of dust.
I've been watching my husband and boys working in the garden (I love to watch him, he's sooo cute, and hey, that's him out there sweating, not me) and the cats chasing the bugs in the grass and the airplanes flying over head.
The reason I like watching the airplanes is that I get to go be on one this weekend. We are going on a cruise!! I'm sooo excited. I've been looking forward to this for the past month with bated breath. (bated?? um...breathy excitemen!) I held off on being excited until I knew it was really going to happen, because I hate wasting excitement. If I'm going to get excited, I want it to be worth while. (grin) I love flying. I don't mean just enjoy it, I'm not sure I really enjoy it--especially now that they don't really serve food on the flights anymore, just all the soda you can handle and salted peanuts (so that you have to use the little closet that passes for a restroom or else sit crosslegged and crosseyed until you land). But for some reason, I have always loved flying.
I guess that's because I love to travel. You'd think after a couple of trips this would calm down and be --well, every day. I've been on a couple of airplanes. I've flown to California several times, Orgeon, Cinncinatti, Ft Lauderdale, Atlanta, Mexico and now I'm going to Vancouver, BC. Never been there! That's part of the excitement. I feel like I want one of those collector sticker books with all the countries and states of the northern American continent, so I can put stickers where I've been. (I'm sure my husband would like to see the stickers on me, but then, I'm in a strange mood today, who knows!!)
So...if I come back and splash photos of bears and salmon jumping out of the water, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Sure makes the thought of summer heat much more bearable, if you know what I mean.
;)
I haven't been angry with the local big city yeeha mayor that I'm usually fuming over, I've paid little attention to the silly little country that Israel is bombing the heck out of (deservedly so) and I've been hiding away in my basement during the hot hours of the day, trying to keep from loosing all my excess weight in sweat, although I'd probably pay money if that were to really happen... grin.
I know there are people who pay big money for those sweat suits that make you loose like 4 pounds in two hours just sweating...what they don't tell you is that you gain back three of those the minute you step out of it and start drinking water to keep from drying up into a pile of dust.
I've been watching my husband and boys working in the garden (I love to watch him, he's sooo cute, and hey, that's him out there sweating, not me) and the cats chasing the bugs in the grass and the airplanes flying over head.
The reason I like watching the airplanes is that I get to go be on one this weekend. We are going on a cruise!! I'm sooo excited. I've been looking forward to this for the past month with bated breath. (bated?? um...breathy excitemen!) I held off on being excited until I knew it was really going to happen, because I hate wasting excitement. If I'm going to get excited, I want it to be worth while. (grin) I love flying. I don't mean just enjoy it, I'm not sure I really enjoy it--especially now that they don't really serve food on the flights anymore, just all the soda you can handle and salted peanuts (so that you have to use the little closet that passes for a restroom or else sit crosslegged and crosseyed until you land). But for some reason, I have always loved flying.
I guess that's because I love to travel. You'd think after a couple of trips this would calm down and be --well, every day. I've been on a couple of airplanes. I've flown to California several times, Orgeon, Cinncinatti, Ft Lauderdale, Atlanta, Mexico and now I'm going to Vancouver, BC. Never been there! That's part of the excitement. I feel like I want one of those collector sticker books with all the countries and states of the northern American continent, so I can put stickers where I've been. (I'm sure my husband would like to see the stickers on me, but then, I'm in a strange mood today, who knows!!)
So...if I come back and splash photos of bears and salmon jumping out of the water, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Sure makes the thought of summer heat much more bearable, if you know what I mean.
;)
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Greetings from the Owls
We had some excitement the past couple of weeks--we discovered we have a screech owl living in our willow tree. Well...not really living there, hatching babies there. At first we didn't realize it had babies, we just thought we had this night owl sitting in our tree with eyes open all during the day...(perhaps my children made enough noise that it felt it had to guard against invasion?)
Here's a shot my son took with the flash.
Pretty cool, huh? Well, we have since learned that the owls tend to fall out of the nest when they are learning to fly. They land on the ground, and then walk (or hop) around for a week or so, the parents feed them, and then they start flying and take off.
Unfortunately, we have five cats...all of which are pretty good at hunting down and killing whatever moves. We called my sister (who happens to be an expert on owls) and asked her what to do, and she came and got one of the little ones. It seemed to be weaker than the other one --not moving around as much. Turns out there were three of them all together.
Yesterday one of them died.
It's amazing how you root for nature. You hope that these little animals will survive and take off and grow and live and populate...even though you know the odds are very high that perhaps only one, and perhaps not even that one, will live. Makes you glad to be a human, huh? At least our chances of survival are greater...
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
What did your mother teach you?
In this time of confusion and frustration--time of pondering the wisdom of the masses and the people who claim they know the best for everyone--I have a question for you. All of you.
What did your mother teach you?
Now I know not everyone had a mother that nutured and cared for them. Many lost their mothers due to death, or illness, or addiction or anything else you can name. But along with that, there were very many who did have mothers. Mothers who cared and taught and loved and hoped the best for them. LOTS of mothers. Okay...so I don't have the statistics--we'll just go with how I grew up. And--let me say, I grew up with a foster mother, so I didn't even have the normal 'mothering' that I'm talking about.
In my little California neighborhood, we lived by a Catholic Church, a jr. high, an LDS Chapel, walking distance to a library and high school, on the outskirts of a large bustling city. My neighborhood itself had probably 15 to 20 houses on it, and almost all of them had families. Of those families, most of them had mothers that were at home. Not all of them--but most.
Mine, my next door neighbor, the neighbor across the street, the two neighbors around the corner, and so on. ;)
We all played during the summer together and went to school together from the time we were in grade school thru my first year of high school--with a few move-outs and move-ins.
The block just behind my house, was probably pretty much the same, but I didn't really know anyone there.
No one besides the Hispanic family that would come around and sell home made Tamales every year. My family always bought some, but I didn't like them. I like the corn meal outer stuff, but never the inside. My tastes have changed since then, thank you very much.
We were all of average income--some more, some less. The main thing we had in common, were our mothers all taught us pretty much the same thing.
Don't lie. Don't steal. Don't hit. Be nice to your brother/sister/neighbor. Share your stuff. Take care of your friends.
I had friends that were from different walks of life--Mexican, caucasian, black, etc. It was the way the world was. We enjoyed the differences and each other. I remember going to a friends house for lunch and her family hand made their own tortillas. It was my first time tasting real Mexican food. It was amazing.
Let's jump ahead now about 30 years. What are the mothers teaching their children now?
Most of you would say the same stuff they were then--but I beg to differ.
How many of the moms are home during the day? And when they are home at night, how much time do they spend with their children? (I know--many of them are not due to their own choice, but necessity--they are amazing women)
Children are left with video games, television, ipods, and friends who don't have mother's at home either.
Their mothers are still wanting to teach them the same values they had been taught, but it doesn't seem to be coming through. I work in an elementary school. I see these kids and watch their minds work.
They figure if it's there, and no one is actually holding it in their hand--it's now theirs. They figure if their parents aren't sitting on their shoulders telling them to be polite and respect others, they don't have to. These kids are some of the rudest, obnoxious kids you've ever met. And believe me, the older they get, the worse it gets. My husband works in high schools and middle schools...he's seen it all.
On the other hand...there are some really sweet kids who are nice and care and try to do what's right. I have two fourth graders that come and visit me when they are supposed to be outside for recess that are a prime example. Both are clean, well dressed, and manerly. One of them is concerned about her grades and homework. The other one could care less. I can see what they will be like in 5 years. The one will be getting straight A's, and the other will be on the chearleading squad, barely squeaking by. (not to malign cheerleaders, they have to keep those grades up too) I even told them that one day when they were talking about it, and she didn't care. She sees no need.
Who do you think taught our soldiers? Our leaders? The President?
Personally, I thank God that our soldiers were taught to defend and guard and protect. I am thankful that SOME of our leaders are trying their best to lead us to better times.
I just with some of them had gotten the message...
This past sunday was Mother's day. Do you honor your mother? What did she teach you?
What did your mother teach you?
Now I know not everyone had a mother that nutured and cared for them. Many lost their mothers due to death, or illness, or addiction or anything else you can name. But along with that, there were very many who did have mothers. Mothers who cared and taught and loved and hoped the best for them. LOTS of mothers. Okay...so I don't have the statistics--we'll just go with how I grew up. And--let me say, I grew up with a foster mother, so I didn't even have the normal 'mothering' that I'm talking about.
In my little California neighborhood, we lived by a Catholic Church, a jr. high, an LDS Chapel, walking distance to a library and high school, on the outskirts of a large bustling city. My neighborhood itself had probably 15 to 20 houses on it, and almost all of them had families. Of those families, most of them had mothers that were at home. Not all of them--but most.
Mine, my next door neighbor, the neighbor across the street, the two neighbors around the corner, and so on. ;)
We all played during the summer together and went to school together from the time we were in grade school thru my first year of high school--with a few move-outs and move-ins.
The block just behind my house, was probably pretty much the same, but I didn't really know anyone there.
No one besides the Hispanic family that would come around and sell home made Tamales every year. My family always bought some, but I didn't like them. I like the corn meal outer stuff, but never the inside. My tastes have changed since then, thank you very much.
We were all of average income--some more, some less. The main thing we had in common, were our mothers all taught us pretty much the same thing.
Don't lie. Don't steal. Don't hit. Be nice to your brother/sister/neighbor. Share your stuff. Take care of your friends.
I had friends that were from different walks of life--Mexican, caucasian, black, etc. It was the way the world was. We enjoyed the differences and each other. I remember going to a friends house for lunch and her family hand made their own tortillas. It was my first time tasting real Mexican food. It was amazing.
Let's jump ahead now about 30 years. What are the mothers teaching their children now?
Most of you would say the same stuff they were then--but I beg to differ.
How many of the moms are home during the day? And when they are home at night, how much time do they spend with their children? (I know--many of them are not due to their own choice, but necessity--they are amazing women)
Children are left with video games, television, ipods, and friends who don't have mother's at home either.
Their mothers are still wanting to teach them the same values they had been taught, but it doesn't seem to be coming through. I work in an elementary school. I see these kids and watch their minds work.
They figure if it's there, and no one is actually holding it in their hand--it's now theirs. They figure if their parents aren't sitting on their shoulders telling them to be polite and respect others, they don't have to. These kids are some of the rudest, obnoxious kids you've ever met. And believe me, the older they get, the worse it gets. My husband works in high schools and middle schools...he's seen it all.
On the other hand...there are some really sweet kids who are nice and care and try to do what's right. I have two fourth graders that come and visit me when they are supposed to be outside for recess that are a prime example. Both are clean, well dressed, and manerly. One of them is concerned about her grades and homework. The other one could care less. I can see what they will be like in 5 years. The one will be getting straight A's, and the other will be on the chearleading squad, barely squeaking by. (not to malign cheerleaders, they have to keep those grades up too) I even told them that one day when they were talking about it, and she didn't care. She sees no need.
Who do you think taught our soldiers? Our leaders? The President?
Personally, I thank God that our soldiers were taught to defend and guard and protect. I am thankful that SOME of our leaders are trying their best to lead us to better times.
I just with some of them had gotten the message...
This past sunday was Mother's day. Do you honor your mother? What did she teach you?
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
So, did you get any mexican food yesterday?
So - shall I see how many people I can annoy right off the bat? How many of you tried to eat at a 'real' mexican restaurant yesterday and couldn't because it was closed? Hmm? Not very many, huh?
How about those of you who teach...how many of you had students missing because they were joining their parents on the march to the capitol? THAT many? Interesting.
I find it interesting for two reasons:
1-I teach in an elementary school, where the kids are having a tough enough time learning the basics, let alone the fact that perhaps they don't all speak the same language (gee...like some of them just came from Mexico last night after going back for two months and don't remember anything they were taught in the months before that?) but they are expected to protest against a law that their parents broke because they were encouraged to do so...
2- It's confusing a lot of people, because they really aren't quite sure why the marching was going on...I mean, we all have hispanic friends, right? We all love mexican food and we all have a smattering of spanish under our belts. That doesn't mean that our lives depend on them.
HMMMMM....
You know, I guess it's easy for me to say--being on this side of the picture, but things are really whacked out there. LA probably got the most effect because they are probably about 75% hispanic at this point. Have you been there recently? Remember Independence day and the guy on the television asking all the Los Angelinos to stop shooting at the spacecraft? Los Angelinos? Heavens. San Diego has quite the population as well. The hotel staffs probably suffered a lot too.
I agree that there needs to be something done about this situation. I agree that it has gotten out of hand. But-offering amnesty to ANYONE who has crossed the border from Mexico doesn't work. I read an article about a person who was in a crowd of over 200 that were receiving their citizenships. They had only waited 18 months. They challenged all of those who were upset about this issue to do it the right way. I agree.
I understand, however, that there are difficulties that should change. It shouldn't be a difficult or expensive thing for someone to seek citizenship. They shouldn't feel like they are bribing the authorities to get the paperwork through. This isn't China and an adoption agency.
Obviously, I'm not running for president. Nor, am I running for any political office - since I would loose. But, I think those that are letting the MINORITY that is rapidly turning into a MAJORITY in our nation rule the laws and the way things are run, need to take a second look.
There needs to be a change somewhere. Where do you think it should start?
How about those of you who teach...how many of you had students missing because they were joining their parents on the march to the capitol? THAT many? Interesting.
I find it interesting for two reasons:
1-I teach in an elementary school, where the kids are having a tough enough time learning the basics, let alone the fact that perhaps they don't all speak the same language (gee...like some of them just came from Mexico last night after going back for two months and don't remember anything they were taught in the months before that?) but they are expected to protest against a law that their parents broke because they were encouraged to do so...
2- It's confusing a lot of people, because they really aren't quite sure why the marching was going on...I mean, we all have hispanic friends, right? We all love mexican food and we all have a smattering of spanish under our belts. That doesn't mean that our lives depend on them.
HMMMMM....
You know, I guess it's easy for me to say--being on this side of the picture, but things are really whacked out there. LA probably got the most effect because they are probably about 75% hispanic at this point. Have you been there recently? Remember Independence day and the guy on the television asking all the Los Angelinos to stop shooting at the spacecraft? Los Angelinos? Heavens. San Diego has quite the population as well. The hotel staffs probably suffered a lot too.
I agree that there needs to be something done about this situation. I agree that it has gotten out of hand. But-offering amnesty to ANYONE who has crossed the border from Mexico doesn't work. I read an article about a person who was in a crowd of over 200 that were receiving their citizenships. They had only waited 18 months. They challenged all of those who were upset about this issue to do it the right way. I agree.
I understand, however, that there are difficulties that should change. It shouldn't be a difficult or expensive thing for someone to seek citizenship. They shouldn't feel like they are bribing the authorities to get the paperwork through. This isn't China and an adoption agency.
Obviously, I'm not running for president. Nor, am I running for any political office - since I would loose. But, I think those that are letting the MINORITY that is rapidly turning into a MAJORITY in our nation rule the laws and the way things are run, need to take a second look.
There needs to be a change somewhere. Where do you think it should start?
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
war - do we really want to know?
I was reading an article this morning about the human toll in Iraq. The point of the article was that there has been a ban on photos of the coffins coming in from the war. They have decided that if everyone knew how many of our brave soldiers were dying, there would be more of an outcry against the war.
I have discovered I am of two minds with regards to the press. 1 - I agree that they tend to focus ONLY on the negative aspects of what we are doing over there and how many bombings there are, etc. That's what sells papers - I guess no one can blame them. I just think it would be nice to have more of the nation know what good we are doing, and the neat things that are happening to the people. The fact that women can go to school, that there are schools at all...
2 - I'm not sure I want to visually see how many have died. I have three nephews who are in the military - one of which was in Iraq and came home with the true activities going on there (not as bad as painted, let me tell you) and one who is on a ship close by. I already know that they could die at any time - all of us can die at any moment. But with the hysteria that rises when people think things are out of hand - that we don't need.
Yes, I agree that the lives that are being given in this great cause need to be counted and not forgotten or hidden. I also think that we need to have more support for what is going on.
I read a blog the other day that wanted people to express their feelings on their government and how badly it is doing right now. What a sign of the times that is. I have to say, I think a big reason our nation is having a difficult time right now is no one was supporting the president in the beginning - he won by such a small margin they all felt he needed to be kicked out in the first place, and they can't wait to get rid of him now.
When he reacted to 911 - we all loved him. He was the man.
Now...things aren't going nice and easy, and it's very easy to blame the man in the big seat. Never mind that there have been many people undermining what he's tried to do since day one. Never mind that the democrats (ugh..did I actually type that word?) have been on a campaign NOT to work with the man, even though he stated he wanted to work with both parties to get our nation on track.
Never mind that now even the republicans (don't stress, I'm not one of either party... although I tend to vote Republican...) aren't happy with him and want to block every thing he is trying to do. The poor man didn't have a chance.
So - in relation to the two subjects I was grousing on today - I want to say: Yes, we probably do need to see those coffins and know the cost being paid by those brave souls. Perhaps then people would be a little more concerned with how long it is taking for the government to take shape, and how the terrorists are STILL trying to affect our world. How the stalling is killing more of our soldiers and not helping the cause of freedom go forward as quickly as it could.
I want to also say - you know what? I think President Bush is still a good guy. He has moral values, he cares about our country and he is doing his best to get things going in the right direction. I never thought he was perfect - I just thought he was a WAY better option than the other man that was running. I still think he is doing a darn better job than lots of people who think they should be in there...
Just my rants for today. ;)
I have discovered I am of two minds with regards to the press. 1 - I agree that they tend to focus ONLY on the negative aspects of what we are doing over there and how many bombings there are, etc. That's what sells papers - I guess no one can blame them. I just think it would be nice to have more of the nation know what good we are doing, and the neat things that are happening to the people. The fact that women can go to school, that there are schools at all...
2 - I'm not sure I want to visually see how many have died. I have three nephews who are in the military - one of which was in Iraq and came home with the true activities going on there (not as bad as painted, let me tell you) and one who is on a ship close by. I already know that they could die at any time - all of us can die at any moment. But with the hysteria that rises when people think things are out of hand - that we don't need.
Yes, I agree that the lives that are being given in this great cause need to be counted and not forgotten or hidden. I also think that we need to have more support for what is going on.
I read a blog the other day that wanted people to express their feelings on their government and how badly it is doing right now. What a sign of the times that is. I have to say, I think a big reason our nation is having a difficult time right now is no one was supporting the president in the beginning - he won by such a small margin they all felt he needed to be kicked out in the first place, and they can't wait to get rid of him now.
When he reacted to 911 - we all loved him. He was the man.
Now...things aren't going nice and easy, and it's very easy to blame the man in the big seat. Never mind that there have been many people undermining what he's tried to do since day one. Never mind that the democrats (ugh..did I actually type that word?) have been on a campaign NOT to work with the man, even though he stated he wanted to work with both parties to get our nation on track.
Never mind that now even the republicans (don't stress, I'm not one of either party... although I tend to vote Republican...) aren't happy with him and want to block every thing he is trying to do. The poor man didn't have a chance.
So - in relation to the two subjects I was grousing on today - I want to say: Yes, we probably do need to see those coffins and know the cost being paid by those brave souls. Perhaps then people would be a little more concerned with how long it is taking for the government to take shape, and how the terrorists are STILL trying to affect our world. How the stalling is killing more of our soldiers and not helping the cause of freedom go forward as quickly as it could.
I want to also say - you know what? I think President Bush is still a good guy. He has moral values, he cares about our country and he is doing his best to get things going in the right direction. I never thought he was perfect - I just thought he was a WAY better option than the other man that was running. I still think he is doing a darn better job than lots of people who think they should be in there...
Just my rants for today. ;)
Friday, March 31, 2006
Illegal immigration and you...
Okay - I think I've ranted about this before, but I feel the need to do so again. It's not like anyone's going to read it anyway...;)
But I read an article in our morning paper that showed highschool kids marching on our state capital to make a statement about a new proposal to make stricter illegal alien laws. One of the students was born in the US, but her parents were illegals and she was marching 'for them'.
It just kills me. She says that they came here to make a better life, and they do a lot for this country. This country needs them. Okay... Let me say that one thing...her parents started the problem and this kid is fortunate to have benefited from it. On the other hand... Her parents have the obligation to be legal.
There are thousands of illegal 'aliens' who are able to receive welfare and other federal programs because of glitches in the system. I wouldn't make that big of a deal about it, but there are many who come here just to get a hand out. There are thousands who are like that girls parents who come here to make a better life for themselves and contribute to society in the small ways they can. Ever been on the west side and seen all the Mexican themed stores and restaurants there? (grin)
However, if they don't follow the laws, how great is this country going to be if we let anyone who wants to come here come without authorization and substance and desire to do something for the improvement of our society?
Our nation was built on the backbone of the immigration of thousands from countries all around the world. We aren't called the melting pot for nothing! But you know, they had to come through legal channels. They didn't have a handy border that they could sneak across and find someone who might be a relative to live with for a while or just show up on a farm of someone who wanted cheap labor.
Yes, the west has come to depend on these cheap laborers, but it doesn't make it right. It doesn't mean we wouldn't survive without them either. We have thousands of young people that need jobs - they're perfect for it. Yes, the cost of produce and other things might go up a little, but hey - there are solutions and there is a way to work this out.
I am happy to have them here. I am happy to have them stay, but you know what? My Greatgrandfather had to come here through normal channels when he came - why should they be any more special?
The other problem is schools. These people clog our lower income schools with their children that don't know how to speak English, and don't attempt to learn it themselves. They also expect their children to have all the same privileges as the other students whose parents are paying TAXES for these schools and their programs to operate! That is part of where the whole debate is coming. These children take advantage of something that for them is essentially free of any cost to them or their families. Evenutally they learn English through our excellent teachers - and sometimes they are able to teach their parents. Then, half the time the parents yank them out of school to go back to Mexico (or wherever - I'll try and be non-judgemental here) and expect when they decide to come back in a month or two that the kid will do fine in their class. It isn't going to happen.
I read an article about someone suggesting we all go move to Mexico and demand to be given equal treatment as a natural citizen there. Go ahead. Demand the healthcare and welfare and care that they are given here and see where it gets you. Think they would do it? NOT. GO to any other country in the world and expect them to take care of you - IT WOULD NOT HAPPEN!
But we are the bad guys! We have been soo taken advantage of, and yet when we realize that it has become a larger problem than benefit, and decide it's time to take care of things, we are THE BAD GUYS!
I am sooo tired of it. I feel like many of the emails I've gotten over the years that state -
Hey, if you don't like it here, WE DIDN'T INVITE YOU! And if you want to stay, we'd love for you to do it WITHIN THE LAW.
Laws are necessary to have the freedoms that we enjoy in this great country of ours. There are lots of men and women fighting around the world to keep our country a free place and trying to make others a better place to have people whine about following the rules in coming to stay here. Good grief!! Get a life!
Okay - I guess I'm calm now... ;)
But I read an article in our morning paper that showed highschool kids marching on our state capital to make a statement about a new proposal to make stricter illegal alien laws. One of the students was born in the US, but her parents were illegals and she was marching 'for them'.
It just kills me. She says that they came here to make a better life, and they do a lot for this country. This country needs them. Okay... Let me say that one thing...her parents started the problem and this kid is fortunate to have benefited from it. On the other hand... Her parents have the obligation to be legal.
There are thousands of illegal 'aliens' who are able to receive welfare and other federal programs because of glitches in the system. I wouldn't make that big of a deal about it, but there are many who come here just to get a hand out. There are thousands who are like that girls parents who come here to make a better life for themselves and contribute to society in the small ways they can. Ever been on the west side and seen all the Mexican themed stores and restaurants there? (grin)
However, if they don't follow the laws, how great is this country going to be if we let anyone who wants to come here come without authorization and substance and desire to do something for the improvement of our society?
Our nation was built on the backbone of the immigration of thousands from countries all around the world. We aren't called the melting pot for nothing! But you know, they had to come through legal channels. They didn't have a handy border that they could sneak across and find someone who might be a relative to live with for a while or just show up on a farm of someone who wanted cheap labor.
Yes, the west has come to depend on these cheap laborers, but it doesn't make it right. It doesn't mean we wouldn't survive without them either. We have thousands of young people that need jobs - they're perfect for it. Yes, the cost of produce and other things might go up a little, but hey - there are solutions and there is a way to work this out.
I am happy to have them here. I am happy to have them stay, but you know what? My Greatgrandfather had to come here through normal channels when he came - why should they be any more special?
The other problem is schools. These people clog our lower income schools with their children that don't know how to speak English, and don't attempt to learn it themselves. They also expect their children to have all the same privileges as the other students whose parents are paying TAXES for these schools and their programs to operate! That is part of where the whole debate is coming. These children take advantage of something that for them is essentially free of any cost to them or their families. Evenutally they learn English through our excellent teachers - and sometimes they are able to teach their parents. Then, half the time the parents yank them out of school to go back to Mexico (or wherever - I'll try and be non-judgemental here) and expect when they decide to come back in a month or two that the kid will do fine in their class. It isn't going to happen.
I read an article about someone suggesting we all go move to Mexico and demand to be given equal treatment as a natural citizen there. Go ahead. Demand the healthcare and welfare and care that they are given here and see where it gets you. Think they would do it? NOT. GO to any other country in the world and expect them to take care of you - IT WOULD NOT HAPPEN!
But we are the bad guys! We have been soo taken advantage of, and yet when we realize that it has become a larger problem than benefit, and decide it's time to take care of things, we are THE BAD GUYS!
I am sooo tired of it. I feel like many of the emails I've gotten over the years that state -
Hey, if you don't like it here, WE DIDN'T INVITE YOU! And if you want to stay, we'd love for you to do it WITHIN THE LAW.
Laws are necessary to have the freedoms that we enjoy in this great country of ours. There are lots of men and women fighting around the world to keep our country a free place and trying to make others a better place to have people whine about following the rules in coming to stay here. Good grief!! Get a life!
Okay - I guess I'm calm now... ;)
Illegall Imigration and you...
Okay - I think I've ranted about this before, but I feel the need to do so again. It's not like anyone's going to read it anyway...;)
But I read an article in our morning paper that showed highschool kids marching on our state capital to make a statement about a new proposal to make stricter illegal alien laws. One of the students was born in the US, but her parents were illegals and she was marching 'for them'.
It just kills me. She says that they came here to make a better life, and they do a lot for this country. This country needs them. Okay... Let me say that one thing...her parents started the problem and this kid is fortunate to have benefited from it. On the other hand... Her parents have the obligation to be legal.
There are thousands of illegal 'aliens' who are able to receive welfare and other federal programs because of glitches in the system. I wouldn't make that big of a deal about it, but there are many who come here just to get a hand out. There are thousands who are like that girls parents who come here to make a better life for themselves and contribute to society in the small ways they can. Ever been on the west side and seen all the mexican themed stores and restaurants there? (grin)
However, if they don't follow the laws, how great is this country going to be if we let anyone who wants to come here come without authorization and substance and desire to do something for the improvement of our society?
Our nation was built on the backbone of the immigration of thousands from countries all around the world. We aren't called the melting pot for nothing! But you know, they had to come through legal channels. They didn't have a handy border that they could sneak across and find someone who might be a relative to live with for a while or just show up on a farm of someone who wanted cheap labor.
Yes, the west has come to depend on these cheap laborers, but it doesn't make it right. It doesn't mean we wouldn't survive without them either. We have thousands of young people that need jobs - they're perfect for it. Yes, the cost of produce and other things might go up a little, but hey - there are solutions and there is a way to work this out.
I am happy to have them here. I am happy to have them stay, but you know what? My Greatgrandfather had to come here through normal channels when he came - why should they be any more special?
The other problem is schools. These people clog our lower income schools with their children that don't know how to speak English, and don't attempt to learn it themselves. They also expect their children to have all the same privileges as the other students whose parents are paying TAXES for these schools and their programs to opperate! That is part of where the whole debate is coming. These children take advantage of something that for them is essentially free of any cost to them or their families. Evenutally they learn english through our excellent teachers - and sometimes they are able to teach their parents. Then, half the time the parents yank them out of school to go back to Mexico (or wherever - I'll try and be non-judgemental here) and expect when they decide to come back in a month or two that the kid will do fine in their class. It isn't going to happen.
I read an article about someone suggesting we all go move to Mexico and demand to be given equal treatment as a natural citizen there. Go ahead. Demand the healthcare and welfare and care that they are given here and see where it gets you. Think they would do it? NOT. GO to any other country in the world and expect them to take care of you - IT WOULD NOT HAPPEN!
But we are the bad guys! We have been soo taken advantage of, and yet when we realize that it has become a larger problem than benefit, and decide it's time to take care of things, we are THE BAD GUYS!
I am sooo tired of it. I feel like many of the emails I've gotten over the years that state -
Hey, if you don't like it here, WE DIDN'T INVITE YOU! And if you want to stay, we'd love for you to do it WITHIN THE LAW.
Laws are necessary to have the freedoms that we enjoy in this great country of ours. There are lots of men and women fighting around the world to keep our country a free place and trying to make others a better place to have people whine about following the rules in coming to stay here. Good grief!! Get a life!
Okay - I guess I'm calm now... ;)
But I read an article in our morning paper that showed highschool kids marching on our state capital to make a statement about a new proposal to make stricter illegal alien laws. One of the students was born in the US, but her parents were illegals and she was marching 'for them'.
It just kills me. She says that they came here to make a better life, and they do a lot for this country. This country needs them. Okay... Let me say that one thing...her parents started the problem and this kid is fortunate to have benefited from it. On the other hand... Her parents have the obligation to be legal.
There are thousands of illegal 'aliens' who are able to receive welfare and other federal programs because of glitches in the system. I wouldn't make that big of a deal about it, but there are many who come here just to get a hand out. There are thousands who are like that girls parents who come here to make a better life for themselves and contribute to society in the small ways they can. Ever been on the west side and seen all the mexican themed stores and restaurants there? (grin)
However, if they don't follow the laws, how great is this country going to be if we let anyone who wants to come here come without authorization and substance and desire to do something for the improvement of our society?
Our nation was built on the backbone of the immigration of thousands from countries all around the world. We aren't called the melting pot for nothing! But you know, they had to come through legal channels. They didn't have a handy border that they could sneak across and find someone who might be a relative to live with for a while or just show up on a farm of someone who wanted cheap labor.
Yes, the west has come to depend on these cheap laborers, but it doesn't make it right. It doesn't mean we wouldn't survive without them either. We have thousands of young people that need jobs - they're perfect for it. Yes, the cost of produce and other things might go up a little, but hey - there are solutions and there is a way to work this out.
I am happy to have them here. I am happy to have them stay, but you know what? My Greatgrandfather had to come here through normal channels when he came - why should they be any more special?
The other problem is schools. These people clog our lower income schools with their children that don't know how to speak English, and don't attempt to learn it themselves. They also expect their children to have all the same privileges as the other students whose parents are paying TAXES for these schools and their programs to opperate! That is part of where the whole debate is coming. These children take advantage of something that for them is essentially free of any cost to them or their families. Evenutally they learn english through our excellent teachers - and sometimes they are able to teach their parents. Then, half the time the parents yank them out of school to go back to Mexico (or wherever - I'll try and be non-judgemental here) and expect when they decide to come back in a month or two that the kid will do fine in their class. It isn't going to happen.
I read an article about someone suggesting we all go move to Mexico and demand to be given equal treatment as a natural citizen there. Go ahead. Demand the healthcare and welfare and care that they are given here and see where it gets you. Think they would do it? NOT. GO to any other country in the world and expect them to take care of you - IT WOULD NOT HAPPEN!
But we are the bad guys! We have been soo taken advantage of, and yet when we realize that it has become a larger problem than benefit, and decide it's time to take care of things, we are THE BAD GUYS!
I am sooo tired of it. I feel like many of the emails I've gotten over the years that state -
Hey, if you don't like it here, WE DIDN'T INVITE YOU! And if you want to stay, we'd love for you to do it WITHIN THE LAW.
Laws are necessary to have the freedoms that we enjoy in this great country of ours. There are lots of men and women fighting around the world to keep our country a free place and trying to make others a better place to have people whine about following the rules in coming to stay here. Good grief!! Get a life!
Okay - I guess I'm calm now... ;)
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Definitely lionish...
Well, I dont' know about the rest of the states, or the world for that matter, but March has certainly entered with a roar here. We had such a snow storm this morning! I've never experience quite the white out before! man, I hate driving in snow like that! I used to love snow...I guess I still do, but not when I have to drive in it! I even have a wonderful car that handles it pretty well, thanks to my hubby.
anyway, I had something pretty profound I was going to write the other day and since I didn't have time to get to the blog, I lost it.
just like most of my thoughts when I don't have somewhere to write them...sigh. Have a good one.
anyway, I had something pretty profound I was going to write the other day and since I didn't have time to get to the blog, I lost it.
just like most of my thoughts when I don't have somewhere to write them...sigh. Have a good one.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
Fat Tuesday?
I guess I've lived a little sheltered life, since I'm not Catholic. I never heard of Fat Tuesday before now, and I had Catholics all around me while growing up. I've heard of Mardi Gras, but only since being an adult.
I have to say...I think it's all just an excuse to party. Do you really believe it's right to glut yourself just before depriving yourself of something for 40 days? My husband had a friend that was Catholic and she would give up M&M's for lent. He loved to torment her and eat them in front of her. I told him that was mean, but that's the kind of stuff they would do to each other. It was crazy.
I'm looking at New Orleans, and I know there are going to be people offended by this remark, but I wish they'd just let go and find a life. All that matters is that they've had Mardi Gras for how long? Apparently since 1875 or so. Longer than thanksgiving... hmm.
What really kind of bugs me is that the first street which was made really habitable and useful was Burbon Street??? Like that's something I would have been worried about.
I find it interesting how people are so caught up over tradition. Yes, there are many things that I think are important about traditions. But spending two weeks (Or MORE) partying all night and having parades with half naked people throwing necklaces at you and stuffing yourself silly is not my idea of a tradition - it's all about tourism and money. I guess that's not a whole lot different than Vegas, huh?
Not that I like Vegas either...
I guess more power to ya, huh?
Happy Fat Tuesday everyone...
I guess we'll make pancakes for dinner and start our own tradition. Think in 200 years my decendants will have a hard time giving them up?
I have to say...I think it's all just an excuse to party. Do you really believe it's right to glut yourself just before depriving yourself of something for 40 days? My husband had a friend that was Catholic and she would give up M&M's for lent. He loved to torment her and eat them in front of her. I told him that was mean, but that's the kind of stuff they would do to each other. It was crazy.
I'm looking at New Orleans, and I know there are going to be people offended by this remark, but I wish they'd just let go and find a life. All that matters is that they've had Mardi Gras for how long? Apparently since 1875 or so. Longer than thanksgiving... hmm.
What really kind of bugs me is that the first street which was made really habitable and useful was Burbon Street??? Like that's something I would have been worried about.
I find it interesting how people are so caught up over tradition. Yes, there are many things that I think are important about traditions. But spending two weeks (Or MORE) partying all night and having parades with half naked people throwing necklaces at you and stuffing yourself silly is not my idea of a tradition - it's all about tourism and money. I guess that's not a whole lot different than Vegas, huh?
Not that I like Vegas either...
I guess more power to ya, huh?
Happy Fat Tuesday everyone...
I guess we'll make pancakes for dinner and start our own tradition. Think in 200 years my decendants will have a hard time giving them up?
Friday, February 24, 2006
Well...They're almost finished...
I can't believe February is almost over. Actually, I've been waiting for it to end!!! ;) It just seems like the past two months have dragged! I have enjoyed the Olympics...sort of. I have really gotten tired of the commentators. Especially with the ice skating...ARGH. I want to each through the TV and string them up. My hubby wants to do the same thing. I mean, I guess I understand now what makes a good skater and a bad or average skater, but I am really looking forward to tonight where hopefully they will shut up during the exhibition skating. I would mute it, but then I'd loose the music!!
My hubby feels that the Russian girl should have got silver, and I disagree. I think Sasha did very well, despite the two falls. He says the Russian girl fell only once...but it's about more than falling. It's grace and style and artistry...
OH NO! I'm starting to sound like those dang commentators!!!
My hubby feels that the Russian girl should have got silver, and I disagree. I think Sasha did very well, despite the two falls. He says the Russian girl fell only once...but it's about more than falling. It's grace and style and artistry...
OH NO! I'm starting to sound like those dang commentators!!!
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