This is why I cannot be a reference librarian...
http://tinyurl.com/6bol9k
And now, follow the link...
Happy Thanksgiving...
Putting aside the historical inacuracies of Thanksgiving, sometimes it is important to take the time to count your blessings. Especially in this current economy, we still have so much to be thankful for. Just a reminder to take a moment and think about the things you are thankful for...
I am thankful for: (In no particular order)
Little blue birdies.
Big brothers
My grandma is ok.
The chance to go back to school.
Cheese.
My mommy who helps me even when I am too stubborn to ask.
My daddy's home made apple pie.
My daddy's home made lemon meringue pie.
My daddy's home made coconut cream pie.
Books.
Lattes.
Yes, we can- and we did...
I have been meaning to post for a few days now... things have been busy.
Its an amazing thing. My country came together, mostly, and made history. It was huge.
I am not going to wax poetic about it, but I must say, the world does feel different now. Sure, the economy still sucks, Chicago is still the murder capital of the world, we still have troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, but there is hope. There is the feeling that people made a difference.
I do have a wish list for the next president... but I will get to that later.
For today, I just wanted to say... Yes, we can...and we did.
sleepy...
I have so much to do. I turned in my midterm last week. Had a horrible migraine afterward. Still fighting it a little. Mostly better but it lingers. I slept after work on Friday, all afternoon Saturday, did a lot more today... its 7 and I still have some homework to complete but all I want to do is go to bed. We even "fell back" this weekend and I still don't feel like I got enough sleep.
Maybe its mono.
A co-worker brought this to my attention...
So, they have started letting us access our non-work email from work. They just put a warning stating that it can be monitored and they ask us to limit the use to non work hours, such as break and lunch or before and after work. I am happy about this because I often check my school e-mail from work to find out if I need to know something before I leave for class. They do filter sites that have streaming media and such. I totally get that. We are there to work, not watch you tube. But a coworker of mine e-mailed me this the other day:
The reason this site was filtered? Well, see for yourself. We both got a good laugh out of it.
Love this....
Turns out folks in Alaska can't stand her either.
Click here for more info at Feministing.com
the more I hear...
the more I hate her. I wish I could like her but I just can't. There is nothing about her that I can support.
Sarah Palin is evil.
I wish someone would ask her if she would be happy earning $150,000 per year, knowing full well that Dick Cheney earned about $200,000 as VP. Obviously that is less. But she is an inny. If we look at her voting record, she believes innies don't deserve equal pay.
She also thinks rape victims should pay for their rape kits.
Books should be banned. (Keep this in mind as we celebrate Banned Books Week!)
Unless the mother's life is at risk (meaning death) that you WILL HAVE that baby... even if that baby's daddy is also his grandpa. eew.
Of course, you can't talk about how to make the baby... no baby making talk allowed.
Oh, and don't get me started on the environment.
Lets shoot the wolves from the plane, drill in ANWR, and ignore the polar bear.
I wonder if she recycles.
She puts family first, look at what has now been called 'troopergate.'
I wish I could vote to put a woman in office, but she is not the kind of woman I would want in the reception office at a doctors office, let alone any political office.
Okay, enough politics, time for bed.
life
It has caught up to me. I have been busy. Work, school, life. I haven't posted in a while. I know I said I would post about the big dinner I made for my brother, which was wonderful. I have pictures of the fabulous cake I did for my dad's birthday- still on my camera- I also made an awesome cake for my Baby Goose for his 7th bird-day. Its hard to believe he has been with us for 7 years. I just haven't had the time to put the up. It will happen eventually. I have school 2 nights a week. I still am working full time as well. I don't think there is a single week this semester where I don't have at least one paper due. Its very busy. I also signed up for a book club at work. I am excited about that. Other literary minded folks at work. After much debate we finally settled on a book for the first discussion, to take place at the end of October. We will be reading "Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson. I also am now a member of the ALA and have a subscription to Library Journal.
Yes, I am going to be a librarian. I am excited about being a librarian. Although I have to do something about the stereotype. When I told someone at work about it, she said I should dress up like a librarian for Halloween. I said, 'what, I should wear this?' she replied, stating that I don't look like a librarian. She said that I need glasses and have a bun, and shush people all the time.
-----
i just found out Paul Newman died. I have to go be sad now.
Registration...
So, today I went to register for school. Graduate School. It is actually happening. Everyone on campus was REALLY nice. I will have an email that ends with .edu again. I won't be attending classes down there though... thank goodness, because getting there was a pain. Traffic makes me twitch. Although the campus was really beautiful. It looked like a college should. Ivy covered walls, old buildings, stately staircases, I wandered around a bit and there was one room, I think it was part of a dining hall, that looked right out of Harry Potter. It was beautiful. I am officially a student. I have the card to prove it. 
I am also starting to get some school supplies together. I am not sure what all I will need. Post-its were on clearance at Target so I stocked up- this should last me through the semester- I hope.
Graduate school- here I come. Gulp.
Wii!!!!
Yes. I did it. I got a Wii. Its pretty fun. Fairly realistic. I played the bowling game and got 71. Which is about right. I am not very good at bowling. it has a LOT of cords coming out of it. Tons of bits. Anyway, I hope to have my Grandma over to play some games with me... We enjoy the scrabble, who is to say we won't love a good game of wii bowling or wii tennis.
Banana Bread
I did it, and I think it was a success. At least everyone enjoyed it.
The bottom was a bit overdone, I think I will try a glass pan next time.
I gave part of it to my BigBro, left a slice for Grandma Betty for breakfast. Gave one to Renee. Sent one slice home with Grandma Maryanne. The rest was mine. So far, nobody has complained- except that there wasn't more. Hey! We only had two bananas and it was really hot out. As far as I am concerned there was a TON of baking/cooking happening around here for 90 degree weather. More on the big birthday meal later... 
Banana Bread
3/4 c sugar
1/2 c butter
2 eggs
1 c mashed ripe banana (about 2)
1/3 c milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 c flour
1/2 c nuts
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Pre-Heat Oven to 350.
Grease loaf pan.
In one bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, set aside. (I dumped it onto a chopping mat) In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, milk and beat until smooth. Add banana and blend. Combine dry ingredients and nuts to bowl and mix until all moist. Pour into loaf pan and bake until toothpick comes out clean, about 50 minutes.
Next time I might add some chocolate chips.
Anyway. Next post I will discuss the Birthday meal for my BigBro. It was quite the undertaking but it was also a great success. Everyone seemed to enjoy it.
Bottom of the totem pole when it comes to aid.
I have been reading these news stories come out of Iowa the past few days and it breaks my heart. The flooding is horrific. People are trying to get their lives put back together. After all of that, finally the library will get rebuilt.
From the Des Moines Register
"The library is not that important right now, I must admit. The most important thing is to get people into houses and back at their jobs and get the essential services that government provides," said Kay Halloran, Cedar Rapids' mayor.
"As far as I'm concerned, personally, I want to have the water treatment plant back to its normal operation. All the other stuff can wait. They've got people working on whatever can be salvaged from the library, and that takes care of things for now."
And so the libraries wait. They shovel through the soaked books. Salvage what they can. Decide what is worth restoring, what needs to be replaced. Finding the money to replace it.
If you can find a few bucks to send their way:
Cedar Rapids Public Library Foundation, 500 First Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. The CRPL Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization. Contributions are tax deductible. Donors will receive a letter of receipt.
IRS letter
So I get this letter in the mail. It is from the IRS. Joy.
According to the bright red writing on it there is IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM THE IRS enclosed and I should not throw it away. Okay... like ever?
Apparently this is my pre-stimulus notice. I should be prepare to be stimulated by the IRS. My expected stimulation date is June 13th. If I am not stimulated in 6 weeks I need to contact the IRS.
I find all of this a bit creepy. Most people are going to use this money to pay for gas to get to their jobs and and groceries to feed their families. The cost of fuel and food keeps rising, the unemployment rate is up again... and a couple hundred bucks is supposed to fix it? Just how gullible does Bush think we are--- oh wait... this is the country that let him steal not one, but TWO elections, and did NOTHING about it.
That day is coming
Okay, so I get cranky around this time of year. Everyone knows this. There is one thing I do really like is the plethora of e-mails I get from assorted businesses willing to give me free stuff.
Thus far I have received coupons from:
Caribou Coffee for: A free Drink- there are no limitations on it. Sweet.
Red Robin: Free burger. This is one of my favorites. A nice hamburger. Them boys is tasty! (and their French fries are YUMMY!)
Noodles and Co: Free bowl of noodles (up to $7.25) they have awesome Mac & Cheese.
Buffalo Wild Wings: free desert with $5.00 purchase- lame. probably wont use that one.
Red Lobster: Totally lame one: $5.00 off when you purchase two dinners. So basically spend almost $40.00 and we will give you a discount that won't even cover what the tip should be. They could at least do free appetizer or something like that. I mean seriously lame. Doubt I will use it. Especially since I can make a better trout fillet any day of the week.
I will continue as I get more... Hopefully there are still some yummy and wonderful treats coming my way!
Talking birds, etc...
So, there are some parakeets who talk up a storm, then there are others who just don't. I just assumed that BabyGoose never had anything to say. I am beginning to think he has been talking to me for awhile and I was the one who wasn't listening. I was sitting here, with my little pooper, watching some Parakeet videos on YouTube... no I am not kidding, he likes to do that, and I noticed that the birds who can talk do so very quickly and in a chattery sounding way that is difficult to understand. If you don't know what you are listening for, you wouldn't be able to understand it as it is often bracketed by other chirps. Goose makes those same chattery noises all the time. So, I have been listening to him more closely. Today, during dinner, I think I heard him say 'sip' and 'I love you.' After I heard what I think he said was 'sip' I gave him a sip of my juice. Sometimes he doesn't want a drink but he totally did that time. Maybe I am imagining it. I totally could be. There are a lot of phrases he could have learned from me. I will be listening for a "ni-night goose" at bedtime.
Long day and it is only half over
So, I had to work today. Maybe had is too strong a word, but I went to work today. I left at about 11:00, stopped at the bank, and then picked up lunch on the way home. There is something you should know about my bird. He loves sandwiches. Really LOVES them. And since his favorite member of his flock is out of town, I did keep that in mind when I chose to pick up a sandwich for lunch. Yes, I am aware I have the most spoiled rotten little parakeet on this earth. I don't know what is worse, the fact that I indulge the little pooper, or the fact that he knows that he is so darn spoiled. 
Putting my Goose to bed.
As my father, who is the feathered friend's favorite family member, is traveling to places far and wide, it fell to me to tuck the goose in tonight. I thought I would take a picture. I changed his paper and wiped down the cage bottom. I changed his water and gave him a sip. He kisses his ducky. We all say "ni-night BabyGoose" and cover his cage. He tweets a little good night song to his ducky and then he hops on top of his little blue snuggle hut, (He has NEVER stepped foot in there but he sleeps on top of it. I don't ask.) and we go to bed.
Feedback
I totally get why they do this but why must they do it then. I mean- I had an interview for a new position at my job. A position I REALLY WANTED. A position I have wanted for a LONG TIME. This wasn't even the first time I interviewed for this position. They said I would find out about it tomorrow. Okay. Fine. I was ready to wait until tomorrow. I get called into a meeting and all of the interviewers were waiting. Okay. Today is the day. They went with someone else. They wouldn't tell me who. This is the second time they went with someone else. I REALLY wanted this. Everyone told me I would get it. I have the most experience, I have the degree, I have the desire, I know the stuff. I don't screw things up, I come in ON time every day, I work my ass off. I am DAMN good at my job. So, I didn't get it. Then I have to sit there while they go through and give me "constructive criticism" as far as why I didn't get the job. Mostly it was because I didn't do well in my interview. I suck at interviews. I get nervous and laugh. I laugh when I am nervous. The person interviewing knew this about me. She also knew my performance and knew I can do the job and do it damn well with little training. I don't get it. That person said I shouldn't get discouraged and try again next time an opportunity opens for that position, but that can be over a year away if not longer. So yeah, I am discouraged. Beaten down. I give up. If other people can get away with not working as hard as I do then I am not going to care as much. It obviously doesn't matter. I am so tired of being the one who is always willing to help, always willing to try so hard, always willing to do so much more and then it bites me in my ass.
One of my coworkers who knows my skills and knows how bad I wanted it, and knows how good I would have been said to me- "They don't deserve you." Its little consolation when I was told that my writing skills needed to be improved and I needed to take these things more seriously and not be so sarcastic during an interview. I was not sarcastic then, I am now, sure cause I am angry and thats how I express myself when I am frustrated. I can't see myself going back there again and again- like I am supposed to continue with a smile on my face like everything is okay? I can't go back like that. I need another road to take. I am tired of watching everyone pass me by.
I love Sunset Foods
So, there is this grocery store near where I work called Sunset Foods. I love this store on SO many different levels. Sure, its a little more expensive then the local Jewel Osco. However, they have a wider variety of foods, beverages, an awesome salad bar, and their staff is well trained. For example; on one occasion I was checking out and there were two young kids at the end of the lane. One was TRAINING the other how to properly BAG my items. Yes, how to properly BAG. Things like 'never put any cleaning or chemical items in with the food.' These are things that would seem obvious to me, but apparently it is not, as often proven when I get home and my bread smells like dryer sheets when I shop at the Jewel.
They also don't look at me like a freak when I pull out my Envirosax. I have used my Envirosax for a long time and when I use them at Jewel, Target, or other stores I get all sorts of irritated responses. Now, this was before it became 'cool' or 'trendy' to bring your own bag. I was in the high school ecology club. This was back when we were worried about CFCs and Aerosol sprays and the hole in the ozone layer.
When I had hurt my foot they FORCED me to accept assistance out to my car.
They meet you as you come up to the checkouts they direct you to the shortest line and unload your cart.
I got carded.
So yeah, I totally LOVE Sunset Foods.
Great news:
U.S. to give $200M in food aid. Aren't we fabulously generous? Two Hundred Million. Thats a lot of money.
Lets just ignore the following:
click here to learn more.
Oh, and that is 511 TRILLION. Whats the next denomination above Trillion? Quadrillion. I googled it. It is Half a QUADRILLION dollars. I can't even comprehend a billion dollars let alone a trillion, a quadrillion? I wouldn't even know where to begin.
First sign of spring: from last weekend
Some people look for robins, others feel flowers are the first sign of spring... For me? its these guys. Chasing around a tiny white ball they hit with their sticks.
Just don't pee on my fence.
Just don't pee on my fence.
Spring Surprise
So, sometime last fall, I thought it might be a good idea to plant some bulbs. I don't know why. I don't like gardening. I am bad at it. Its muddy. Its sweaty. Anyway, I looked outside my bedroom window and there were a few little yellow flowers sneaking through. So, maybe it wasn't too crazy.
We didn't think this would ever happen
NKOTB are back! Yes, they return.
All I can say is:
The right stuff
The right stuff
(Verse) The first time was a great time
The second time was a blast
The third time I fell in love
Now I hope it lasts
I can see it in you walk
Tell it when you talk
Can see it in everything you do
Even in your thoughts
(Chorus) You got the right stuff baby
I love the way you turn me on
You got the right stuff baby
You're the reason why I sing this song
All that I needed was you
Oh, girl, you're so right
And all that I wanted was you
You made all my dreams come true
Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh.
Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh.
(Verse) The first kiss was a sweet kiss
The second kiss had a twist
The third and your fourth kiss
I don't want to miss
I can see it in you walk
Tell it when you talk
Can see it in everything you do
Even in your thoughts
(Chorus)
Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh.
Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh.
Girl, yeah baby
You know you got the right stuff
Girl, yeah baby
You know you know you got it, girl
In my life, it's so right
You made it.
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh the right stuff.
Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh, Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh the right stuff.
(Chorus)...(out)
If you thought I had nothing to say...
If you thought I had nothing to say before, you ain't seen nothin yet. After being down with the flu for two days and counting, I've got even less to say. I have decided I like Sasparilla more then Ginger Beer Soda. I have found that I drink more if it is in a cup with a straw then if from the can directly. Oh, and I think there are cardinals nesting in the tree just over the fence outside my window. They sure make quite a riot at about 8:40 am. Ok. I am going back to bed.
Its Twitteriffic!
So, I am loving this twitter thing. I can send real time messages from my phone or from the website and it posts up on my blog. Not that anyone really pays attention but seriously... its kinda neat. So keep an eye to the left there at the twitter box and reload the screen every once in awhile. You never know when I will send a new message!
Snow
Another quick thing, We got a TON of snow on Friday, like almost a foot. Everyone is complaining as it was the first full day of spring and we got pounded. Yes, we have had LOTS of snow this winter. Lots.
However, We have had a late snow here previously. In fact, just last April: See Here for proof. I think it was Grandma Betty who got snow when she graduated High School. This is not to say I am not done with snow. I have had enough snow to last me a good long while. And last I heard we have had well over 50" this year, I can't find the exact number right now but I have to go cook.
Later!
I get a lot of mail. 95% of it is junk. I am trying to decrease the amount of mail I actually need. I am going electronic on most of my mail. Mostly because I am very bad about keeping track of it. I was looking through some of it and I can't figure out how I end up on some of these lists:
Old Pueblo Traders: No offense if you like their clothing but its old lady clothes. House dresses and Muu Muus.
I get several Bed Bath and Beyond coupons even though I never shop there. My mom does, but I don't.
I get catalogs for high priced home furnishings.
I have gotten offers to refinance my home or for great rates on home equity. I don't own a home.
I get mailings on clinical trials happening now in my area.
I even get mail from the post office.
Then, I also get mail from Leonardo DiCaprio, Warren Buffet, Al Gore, Jimmy Carter, et al, asking for my money for the various charities. Don't they have their own money? Lord knows they all have more money then I do!
Well, I am off to make Easter dinner.
Enjoy your spring fertility celebrations as well! (Hey, just being honest, it is after all, named for the fertility goddess Eostre,did you think Estrogen, easter that root was all just a coincidence? Nah. So eat your chocolate bunnies and dye your eggs. Enjoy and be fertile!)
Life working in a call center
It has been a while since I have ranted about work. I seriously want to start answering the phone: 'Thank you for calling --- My name is M*. Please don't yell at me, I didn't do it.'
The next time you call a customer service number, remember you are talking to a person. I am someones daughter, someones friend. For all you know, you could be screaming expletives at me. Would you do that if you had to look in my eyes while calling me an effing *&1^%? Would you be able to treat me like that if you had to look me in the face? Next time you are all worked up and angry and ready to rip the customer service representatives head off, remember, he could be your neighbor. She could be me. That person who helped you get the last bottle of shampoo of the top shelf at the Target on Sunday? Might have been a CSR. The guy who let you turn during rush hour Monday night? Very possibly was a CSR. We are really trying to help. We are just people.
Just a girl...
This bugs me. I have been looking at books for awhile, all sorts of books. I can't bring myself to buy them. I know you aren't supposed to judge a book by its cover, but I think it is fair to judge it by its title.
Please tell me I am not the only one who sees a problem with titles like these:
"On My Own Two Feet: A Modern Girl's Guide to Personal Finance"
"Fight Like a Girl: The Power of Being a Woman"
"Mean Girls Grown Up: Adult Women Who Are Still Queen Bees, Middle Bees, and Afraid-to-Bees"
"Bitches, Bimbos, and Ballbreakers: The Guerrilla Girls' Illustrated Guide to Female Stereotypes"
"The Bad Girl's Guide to Getting What You Want"
"The Single Girl's Manifesta: Living in a Stupendously Superior Single State of Mind"
"Advanced Cinematherapy: The Girl's Guide to Finding Happiness One Movie at a Time"
"Home Girls Make Some Noise! Hip-hop Feminism Anthology"
"Toys for Girls: If Women Didn't Exist, All the Money of the World Would Have No Meaning"
"The Hip Girl's Handbook: For Home, Car, & Money Stuff"
"The Girl's Guide to Being a Boss (Without Being a Bitch): Valuable Lessons, Smart Suggestions, and True Stories for Succeeding as the Chick-in-Charge"
"The Modern Jewish Girl's Guide to Guilt"
"Why Good Girls Don't Get Ahead... But Gutsy Girls Do: Nine Secrets Every Working Woman Must Know"
"The Bad Girl's Guide to the Party Life"
"The Joy of Doing Things Badly: A Girl's Guide to Love, Life and Foolish Bravery"
Let me assure you, not one of these books was intended for someone under the age of 16. Many of these were marketed to full grown WOMEN. Yes, WOMEN. Don't let me get started on the books for women with the term Bitch in the title.
So thats another weekend all shot to hell.
Sunday night. It comes so quickly. Tomorrow I get to go to work once again. When did this happen? When did I become a grown up? Somewhere between studying for final exams and now I managed to become an adult. I don't remember how or when but I find myself sitting here with a grown up job, a 401k, dental, taxes, bills, and obligations. I don't get carded for beer anymore. When did that happen? When did I start looking old enough to buy beer? When did it start mattering? I mean, when did it change from being cool to look older to trying to look younger. When did I hit that point? The thing here is: I'm not even old, I'm in my mid/late twenties. I still think about things like gray hairs and laugh lines. I try not to but I do. Its pathetic and superficial when I should be worring about how I should be reducing my carbon footprint and how to finish my application to graduate school. But while I do those things, I also wonder if I am going to need to start paying to dye my hair, if I need to start budgeting for that. I never thought I would be that type of person, because it shouldn't matter. If I was a man, it wouldn't matter. But since it does, I may just bend. That is what happens, as we get older the rules seem to change. Plans change. I don't think I have changed all that much. I still think we can change the world. I still believe in true love- despite my outward cynicism. I still love cinnamon. I still get nervous when my boss wants to talk to me, even though I know I can do my job and I am damn good at it. I still make a mean potroast. Anyway, I guess there was really no point to this except to say that I got beer at SuperTarget on Friday and they didn't card me. I haven't been carded in a year. I am beginning to think I need the botox or something.
A bit of trivia
This is the one day that it is 'socially acceptable' for a woman to ask a man to marry her. Now that is a bit too old fashioned but it has interesting roots. It all stems from St. Bridget asking St. Patrick to marry her. Kinda cool.
Phone calls
I got a call this evening, it totally made my day, which kinda sucked. I just love being talked to like an idiot - especially by customers who used to be coworkers. You would think people who worked with us would treat us like human beings, since they know we are human... but no. Treated me like I didn't have two brain cells to rub together.
Anyway, to the good part. I got a call from a J8 who asked me to come over and play. Told me I need to bring my DS and Mario. His little brother,C3, told me he loved me and kissed the telephone. Made the yucky stuff just disappear.
I love those boys. They can always make me giggle.
Vote for Lexi!
Vote for Lexi!
There is a contest at Bissell for their next representative. I know this puppy's human.
Please take a peek and Vote for Lexi. You have until February 26th.
Thanks.
And now for something completly different
With all of the sadness around, I thought I would post something a bit more uplifting...
Could this have been prevented?
Yes. It could have been prevented. There. I have said it.
Everyone says that he was such a nice boy and he was the last one they would have suspected... I am sure he was a great guy, when he was on his medication. Everyone is so quick to blame the medication for causing this tragedy. Be careful with that. The problem isn't the medication, its the LACK of the proper medication. All of the reports state that the shooter went off his medication before he left his home in Urbana and headed north. Thus, we cannot blame the pharmaceutical companies, as he was no longer under their influence. Keeping him on his medication wouldn't have prevented it. We cannot force feed people pills. The solution is much simpler.
Also in the news is Senator Dick Durbin, for some legislation to increase campus security. That isn't going to fix it. Wait, this is old news. This was introduced back in April of 07.. It DIDN'T fix it.
We need to get rid of guns. I know this isn't a popular view. I am proud of Chicago's mayor for being one of the few brave enough to say it though. "We have a presidential election," Daley said. "People say they lose elections because they stand up to the gun manufacturers." (from a blog by Gary Washburn, see link). Nobody wants to anger the gun lovers... why? Oh yeah, cause they might SHOOT YOU. But lets stop and REALLY think about this for a minute. Had Kazmierczak not had the guns, he wouldn't have been able to harm as many people. Yes, he could have killed somepne with a knife, but it would have taken him longer and been a bit harder. They say that guns don't kill people, people kill people. Sure, but it is a hell of a lot harder to kill someone with a board with a nail in it then with a glock.
Now, for everyone out there who is concerned with their 2nd amendment rights, lets take a moment and read the second amendment.
"A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed"
What does it mean? A well regulated Militia: latin in origin, basically is an army made of citizens when called to duty. Keep in mind, this was written in the 18th Century when the US didn't HAVE a full time army.
being necessary to the security of a free state: We must have an army for the country to defend itself if needed.
The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed: This is where it gets tricky. The right to keep the weapons is for those who will belong to the militia to defend the country. This was written in a time when a gun took several minutes to reload between single shots, inaccurate, and often considered more useful as clubs. I doubt the founding fathers ever expected to read newspapers with headlines about University students shooting each other or five dead in store shooting.
A normal citizen does not have any right to own a gun. there are so many deaths that could have been prevented.
Rather then talk about gun control they would rather discuss more pointless legislation and blame drug manufacturers that actually help people handle depression or anxiety... blame video games and rock music... but no, we can't dare actually talk about controlling the guns.
in shock
Its happened again. Another tragedy. This one feels so much different. Possibly because it is so close to home. The news coverage on NBC has been nonstop. More likely, it is because I spent my first semester at college at NIU. I took a class in that building, that hall. It was about 10 years ago now. It was one of the classes I actually went to. I can't imagine what these young students are going through. My heart goes out to the entire Northern campus population, and the entire community of DeKalb. I am now going to hug my mom and dad, say a prayer, and get some sleep.
Shopping
So, I was hanging out with my boys last night. Sweet little guys. I love them so much. Even when they are over tired, cranky, snotty and pitching a fit. Poor little c3 was in a mood. Its hard being the little one.
Despite all of that, we did have fun. Building with legos, j8 and I played video games and read.
When I was leaving, K asked what I was doing today. I told her I was going shopping with my mom. I supposed she sensed that I wasn't entirely looking forward to it. Don't get me wrong, I love my mom. She's great, but sometimes I feel like I am a disappointment. Still being single, not dating, sure, its not exactly what I expected but neither was Sushi and I LOVE sushi. Anyway, K just said to me that she would do just about anything to go shopping with her mom again. Even one of the tedious irritating 4 hour long ShopKo shopping trips. I miss Mrs. P. So much. It reminded me that even when moms drive us bonkers, they love us and want the best for us. I love my mom. She just wants me to be happy. So, if she brings up the fact that I am single and perhaps if I waxed my eyebrows more often things would be better, I will bite my tongue, smile, and tell her its an interesting point of view, and ask her what she thinks of this item on the shelf.
Oh, and Mom, when you read this? Because I know you probably will... I love you. You have always been on my side. You have always been there for me. So, thanks for that. And *hugs*. I know I don't tell you enough that I appreciate you and all you have done for me. Thanks.
Snow Day
I am tired of the snow. It snowed forever on Wednesday. They actually let us leave early from work. They haven't finished clearing the roads and today- more snow. The local towns and counties are out of salt. Driving is a trick. Thank goodness for ABS.
Apparently I am not the only one who can't make a decision
Groundhogs' vote: split
February 3, 2008
PUNXSUTAWNEY, Pa. --
Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow Saturday, leading the groundhog to forecast six more weeks of winter.
Each Feb. 2, thousands of people descend on Punxsutawney, a town of about 6,100 people, to celebrate the German superstition.
In the Chicago area, the Brookfield Zoo said its groundhogs wouldn't come out, despite sweet potato cake and a crowd of more than 600 people. But one of the rodents, Tumbleweed, stuck her nose out and no shadow was seen -- so the forecast is for an early spring, the zoo said. AP
Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.Split in two.
I am torn. Now that Edwards is out. Kucinich is out. (I really liked Kucinich) We are down to two. Two candidates. Clinton or Obama. I am split. I cannot decide. They both have great things about them and also they both have things I don't like as well.
Obama: I agree with him as far as abortion rights- he doesn't like it. He also recognizes its not his decision for anyone else. He wants to do more to prevent unwanted pregnancy in the first place.
Clinton: She also has a liberal stance on a womans right to choose. She has also spoken out on keeping emergency contraception available.
So. Thats not going to help me decide.
Obama: Voted yes to extend the patriot act. I don't need to expand on that.
Clinton: So did she.
Ugh. They are beginning to look like two peas.
Obama: Supports the death penalty.
Clinton: Ditto... Crap
Both support universal health care, although Clinton is more vocal about it.
Both think that guns are bad.
Ugh. My head likes Obama because he is a great speaker, he is inspiring. My heart was for Edwards who is no longer in it so it is now broken in two. My uterus screams Clinton. Perfect would be Clinton/Obama for 2008-2016, and then Obama can take over. I know... I am living a fantasy... they would be unbeatable.
State of the Union- depressing?
So, the state of the union. It was like a train wreak. I didn’t want to look. I couldn’t turn away. It was painful to listen to. Even harder to watch. Nancy Pelosi sitting there, behind him, reading along. I had hoped she might actually speak up against him when she became speaker. No such luck.
I am not going to do a full commentary. That would just take far too long.
THE PRESIDENT: Madam Speaker, Vice President Cheney, members of Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens: Seven years have passed since I first stood before you at this rostrum. In that time, our country has been tested in ways none of us could have imagined. We faced hard decisions about peace and war, rising competition in the world economy, and the health and welfare of our citizens. These issues call for vigorous debate, and I think it's fair to say we've answered the call. Yet history will record that amid our differences, we acted with purpose. And together, we showed the world the power and resilience of American self-government.
Yes, History will record that we let a monkey wearing pants remain our president while we impeached a man for lying about fellatio. History will record that we attacked a country for no reason. The president with the highest disapproval rating in history still remains in power. History will record our apathy. Makes me proud.
Blah blah blah security, progress blah blah blah
To build a prosperous future, we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy. As we meet tonight, our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty. America has added jobs for a record 52 straight months, but jobs are now growing at a slower pace. Wages are up, but so are prices for food and gas. Exports are rising, but the housing market has declined. At kitchen tables across our country, there is a concern about our economic future.
Jobs? Sure… there are tons of jobs available, in the Army, Navy, Air Force…
In the long run, Americans can be confident about our economic growth. But in the short run, we can all see that that growth is slowing. So last week, my administration reached agreement with Speaker Pelosi and Republican Leader Boehner on a robust growth package that includes tax relief for individuals and families and incentives for business investment...
I heard about this tax relief. At first it was going to be $800, then $600…now its something like $300 maybe. Here is the news for you. $300 bucks isn’t going to save Joe’s house from being foreclosed on. It isn’t going to prevent Jane’s car from being repossessed. It isn’t going to make a dent in Bob’s $500k in medical bills. It might buy groceries for the week for a family of 5, if they buy the cheap chips. Do something that will REALLY make a difference.
We have other work to do on taxes. Unless Congress acts, most of the tax relief we've delivered over the past seven years will be taken away. Some in Washington argue that letting tax relief expire is not a tax increase. Try explaining that to 116 million American taxpayers who would see their taxes rise by an average of $1,800. Others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes. I welcome their enthusiasm. I'm pleased to report that the IRS accepts both checks and money orders. (Laughter and applause.)
How about this? Make your rich friends and corporations pay an equal share? Why do I have to pay a larger percentage of my income than someone who makes more in a month then I do in a YEAR? They won’t notice an extra $200.00 a month NEARLY as much as I do.
Most Americans think their taxes are high enough. With all the other pressures on their finances, American families should not have to worry about their federal government taking a bigger bite out of their paychecks. There's only one way to eliminate this uncertainty: Make the tax relief permanent. (Applause.) And members of Congress should know: If any bill raises taxes reaches my desk, I will veto it. (Applause.)
Just as we trust Americans with their own money, we need to earn their trust by spending their tax dollars wisely. Next week, I'll send you a budget that terminates or substantially reduces 151 wasteful or bloated programs, totaling more than $18 billion. The budget that I will submit will keep America on track for a surplus in 2012. American families have to balance their budgets; so should their government. (Applause.)
I have an idea- bring home our troops, cut the defense budget, get rid of your homeland security department, reallocate that money to education, social security, paying the wounded soldiers and their families what we promised them…
The people's trust in their government is undermined by congressional earmarks -- special interest projects that are often snuck in at the last minute, without discussion or debate. Last year, I asked you to voluntarily cut the number and cost of earmarks in half. I also asked you to stop slipping earmarks into committee reports that never even come to a vote. Unfortunately, neither goal was met. So this time, if you send me an appropriations bill that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half, I'll send it back to you with my veto. (Applause.)
I don’t know about you but I don’t trust my government. I question my government. I was taught that it wasn’t only my right as an American to question my government but my DUTY as an American to question my government.
To build a future of quality health care, we must trust patients and doctors to make medical decisions and empower them with better information and better options. We share a common goal: making health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans…The Congress must also expand health savings accounts, create Association Health Plans for small businesses, promote health information technology, and confront the epidemic of junk medical lawsuits. … we will help ensure that decisions about your medical care are made in the privacy of your doctor's office -- not in the halls of Congress. (Applause.)
Last time I checked, these decisions were actually made in the halls of Aetna or Blue Cross Blue Shield. The more you talk about health care, the more you sound like that other ‘beloved’ president…Nixon, who was also a big fan of HMOs and insurance companies. You really ought to shut up. We need to go to socialized medicine like Europe. Medical care is NOT a privilege; it is a basic human right.
On education, we must trust students to learn if given the chance, and empower parents to demand results from our schools. In neighborhoods across our country, there are boys and girls with dreams -- and a decent education is their only hope of achieving them.
Trust children to learn? No, we must force them to learn. Get the funnel and the mallet. Shove the knowledge into them. Do not give them an option.
Six years ago, we came together to pass the No Child Left Behind Act, and today no one can deny its results. Last year, fourth and eighth graders achieved the highest math scores on record. Reading scores are on the rise. African American and Hispanic students posted all-time highs. (Applause.) Now we must work together to increase accountability, add flexibility for states and districts, reduce the number of high school dropouts, provide extra help for struggling schools.
Making the tests easier does NOT mean you were successful. It just improves the scores.
On trade… we're pursuing opportunities to open up new markets by passing free trade agreements… I ask you to approve agreements with Colombia and Panama and South Korea… They will give us better access to nearly 100 million customers. They will support good jobs for the finest workers in the world: those whose products say "Made in the USA." (Applause.)
Interesting, I go to the local store and I can’t find a single thing that says “Made in the USA.” Maybe if I take a vacation to Colombia I will finally be able to purchase something made by a fellow American.
These agreements also promote America's strategic interests. The first agreement that will come before you is with Colombia, a friend of America that is confronting violence and terror, and fighting drug traffickers. If we fail to pass this agreement, we will embolden the purveyors of false populism in our hemisphere. So we must come together, pass this agreement, and show our neighbors in the region that democracy leads to a better life. (Applause.)
Lets not forget who helped make Columbia the wonderful country it is today- filled with death squads and drug cartels… headed by top students from the School of the Americas in Fort Benning, GA.
Trade brings better jobs and better choices and better prices. Yet for some Americans, trade can mean losing a job, and the federal government has a responsibility to help. (Applause.) I ask Congress to reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance, so we can help these displaced workers learn new skills and find new jobs.
And we will call it the Military…
Let us continue investing in advanced battery technology and renewable fuels to power the cars and trucks of the future. (Applause.) Let us create a new international clean technology fund, which will help developing nations like India and China make greater use of clean energy sources. And let us complete an international agreement that has the potential to slow, stop, and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gases. …
An international agreement that has the potential to slow, stop and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gasses? That sounds like a brilliant idea. Why didn’t someone think of that already. One would think some smart earth friendly person in Kyoto would have come up with just such a thing… perhaps even call it something really catchy, like say the Kyoto Protocol… nah…
To keep America competitive into the future… I ask Congress to double federal support for critical basic research in the physical sciences and ensure America remains the most dynamic nation on Earth. (Applause.)
But the earth was only created in 6 days… what more do we need to know?
On matters of life and science… we're expanding funding for this type of ethical medical research. And as we explore promising avenues of research, we must also ensure that all life is treated with the dignity it deserves. And so I call on Congress to pass legislation that bans unethical practices such as the buying, selling, patenting, or cloning of human life. (Applause.)
I thought we went over this last year… I can’t make a clone of myself and enslave it to do my bidding. Understood. Back to real life now? This isn’t Austin Powers. We have more important things to deal with now.
On matters of justice, we must trust in the wisdom of our founders and empower judges who understand that the Constitution means what it says. (Applause.) I've submitted judicial nominees who … are being unfairly delayed.
If they were going to actually follow the constitution it wouldn’t be a problem. The REAL constitution. Not the one you made up in crayon. Not the one that has your asterisk that says at the bottom “unless I don’t wanna” The reason they are held up is because they are NOT worthy of confirmation, that is WHY the constitution allows for the debates in the senate.
Tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the Gulf Coast …I'm pleased to announce that in April we will host this year's North American Summit of Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the great city of New Orleans. (Applause.)
And above is the ONLY mention we get of the hell that was Katrina. That was it. Basically he said they are hosting the summit there so everything is hunky-dory.
There are two other pressing challenges that I've raised repeatedly before this body, and that this body has failed to address: entitlement spending and immigration …(Applause.)
The reasons? Because you are spending the money we put into social security etc, on war mongering. The other issue? Yeah, only you are terrified of the evil brown people. Most intelligent people have caught on to your pathetic diversion tactic. If we blame the evil brown people from the south we won’t pay attention to all of the murder and evil you are doing in the east. Its over. We are now WATCHING YOU.
While the enemy is still dangerous and more work remains, the American and Iraqi surges have achieved results few of us could have imagined just one year ago. (Applause.) When we met last year, many said that containing the violence was impossible. A year later, high profile terrorist attacks are down, civilian deaths are down, sectarian killings are down.
Notice how he doesn’t mention anything about our troops… 2007 was the deadliest year for our soldiers. As of today the total number of American troops that we have lost in this pointless attack is 3941.
Last month, Osama bin Laden released a tape in which he railed against Iraqi tribal leaders who have turned on al Qaeda and admitted that coalition forces are growing stronger in Iraq.
You remembered his name! I’m impressed…
By contrast, a failed Iraq would embolden the extremists, strengthen Iran, and give terrorists a base from which to launch new attacks on our friends, our allies, and our homeland…(Applause.)
Ah, yes, we must bomb another country… in fact, why don’t you just nuke them all, press the big button. Who needs them. Get rid of Africa too. China, Australia as well. Too many marsupials there. And Japan, they are constantly showing us up with their cars that actually work well and have great gas mileage. While we are at it, we should invade England. They have always been so uppity with their tea and crumpets. Show them. Yeah. And France… cause they have funny hats… hehehe.
Blah blah blah, terror, blah blah blah, danger blah blah blah.
America opposes genocide in Sudan. (Applause.)
But genocide in Iraq is awesome…
We support freedom in countries from Cuba and Zimbabwe to Belarus and Burma. (Applause.)
United States, Canada, Mexico, Panama, Haiti, Jamaica, Peru; Republic Dominican, Cuba, Caribbean, Greenland, El Salvador too. Puerto Rico, Columbia, Venezuela, Honduras, Guyana, and still; Guatemala, Bolivia, Oh, wait…I thought we were singing the Nations of the World with Yakko Warner…Sorry.
America is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people, and some of the most compassionate Americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us. We must keep faith with all who have risked life and limb so that we might live in freedom and peace. Over the past seven years, we've increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. And as we increase funding -- (applause.) And as increase funding we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation. (Applause.) I call on the Congress to enact the reforms recommended by Senator Bob Dole and Secretary Donna Shalala, so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope and promise and dignity. (Applause.)
Then pay them what you promised. Pay them a living wage. Cover their medical expenses and pay them their disability benefits without question.
Blah blah blah
So tonight, with confidence in freedom's power, and trust in the people, let us set forth to do their business. God bless America. (Applause.)
To see the full text of the speech- go here: 2008 State of the Union
Three Things...
I have three things to talk about today.
#1. My voice mail. I had a message on my voice mail on my cell phone for Kaitlyn Smith. I have no idea who she is or why someone would leave a message for her on my cell phone. Especially since my voice mail says my name twice. If you are calling Kaitlyn and you get Maddie's voice mail and it specifically tells you that it is ONLY Maddie's voice mail and not to leave a message for anyone other than Maddie... would you then proceed to leave a message for Kaitlyn? Yeah.
#2. I work in a call center. I take 80+ calls every day. When you call a customer service line, please remember that you are speaking to a real person on the other side. We have feelings, we are someone's mother, father, sister, brother, son, daughter, husband, or wife... We do what we can to help. Please do not abuse us. Help us. When we ask for your name, give us your full name- first and last. Do not talk as though you have marbles in your mouth. Its frustrating, I know. But trust me, you are not the only Alexis or Walter that we have in our customer database. And no, just because you talked to me 3 weeks ago, doesn't mean I remember every detail of that conversation. I don't remember who you are. I spoke to over 1200 people last month. Sorry.
#3. I came home from work today. And despite the previous note- it wasn't even a bad day, just a few annoying messages from Bob who wanted me to call him back because he talked to me on the 7th. I have no idea who Bob is. No last name, no account number, nothing else. But I am supposed to call him back. Sure. Anyway, onwards to # 3. I am sick of political ads. We haven't even had the primary election here yet and during one break there were 4 ads in a row. I miss hearing about Jane's herpes or Joe's ED.
Okay, so now I am yelling at the TV because the State of the Union address is REALLY pissing me off. How much time is left? Too much. Ugh. He is such an idiot. We need to impeach him.
I'm sensitive
I saw this on T.V. last week...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22825996/
I can't get it out of my head. I have heard about the atrocities of the holocaust, read books, graphic novels, heard lectures, seen documentaries, etc... But this got to me. They shared the story of Dina Beitler. When she was five years old, she was forced into a mass grave and buried alive. She managed to claw her way out and survive that horror.
I just don't understand how anyone could do such a thing, to anyone... let alone a child. The excuse? they were following orders. They say they had no option. If everyone just blindly followed orders and didn't question anything we would still be part of Europe, or possibly still in Europe... without the wheel. Following orders is not a valid excuse.
We are at least acknowledging our history - sorta. We don't discuss the recent genocides of Bosnia, Rwanda, Darfur... We have learned from our history so well. It is still happening today. All because someone is following orders.
It all just gets to me, breaks my heart. I don't get it. I can't comprehend how cruel people can be. The thought of that tiny girl, so frightened and alone, in the dark, trying to pull herself up out of the earth still haunts me.
I always have been sensitive.
learn more at: http://www.yadvashem.org/
Apple
I keep seeing the commercials for the new MacBook Air and man...I want one. They are just so cute and tiny and cute and thin and everything my computer isn't but oh well... I do see one problem with them. Only one usb port- I need more then that. I like to have my USB snowman plugged in during the winter. However, if they came in different colors, like the iPods did- I may end up getting one- if it came in pink.
I have a new countdown clock...
I finally found something to replace my countdown until the next Heroes clock.
Just a little something to look forward to.
Cold.
Its cold. At a certain point, I don't want to know if its 6 degrees or 4 degrees or 12 below... its all the same. Its cold. Why anyone would want to live in this climate is beyond me.
Music
You may ask, hey, whats up with the music on the blog here? One of my mom's friends has music on her blog and now my my mom wants music so then I had to figure out how to do music and well, here we are. Don't worry, it probably won't last too long.
So, I saw these at Vinyl Wall Art and I just had to have them. I ordered them in Silver and I can hardly wait for them to arrive. They will look so cute hanging around in my room.
Now, if only I could get over this darn "unspecified pharyngitis" or perhaps it would specify itself. Ugh.
pictures, etc
It has been a while. I have been meaning to put up some photos. First, I was home one day and saw them vacuuming our lawn. Pretty silly.
Dressed up at work for Halloween:
and Finally: The holiday party:
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