Do Something Nice for Someone Today

A friend suggested on Facebook that we do something nice for someone tomorrow. I said I would do so.

Why not?

I try to be helpful all the time. Many times people are happy with this treatment. But, not always. There are a percentage of folks who are distrusting of people wanting to be helpful. Why? I haven't figured that out yet. But, I'm pretty sure it has to stem from a deficiency on their part. If someone wanted to be helpful to me, I'd be surprised and/or grateful. But, suspicious? Probably not. People don't generally want to do you harm while disguising their behavior as helpful. Truthfully, I do not understand, so I have no answer.

Regardless, tomorrow I will make sure I do something nice for someone.

As it's a work day, there will be plenty of opportunities. I envision starting off early by holding the door of the elevator to allow everyone to get on board without rushing. Should a vendor reach me on the telephone, I will give them information they are seeking. Whatever it is, I'll be ready and able to deliver on my promise.

I will be nice to at least one person tomorrow.

What about you?

Express Yourself!

Writing is expression.

Is that too obvious to state? Not really. Humans need to express themselves. I had an interesting conversation this evening with someone who has a lot of pent up energy. Turns out she used to write, but now she doesn't. She is wondering why she seems nervous, fidgety, and unable to slow down her thoughts. Seems to me her creative energies need to be released.

Perhaps I'm crazy, but writing or any other creative form of expression such as music, art, photography, collecting, genealogy, or whatever fits the need is an essential part of maintaining a happy and healthy lifestyle.

Express yourself!

I recall a slogan like this (and I know that is poor English, it is done for effect) from a long time ago. These are words of wisdom that escaped me until today.

Must be living on the correct path this week. I received some sage advice yesterday that goes something like this...

- Lighten Up
- Don't take this stuff so seriously
- Use a friend to double check that you aren't falling back on destructive behaviors. Why should you do all the hard work yourself!

I'd like to add to this short list - Express Yourself!

It's that simple, simple.

Life is Good

It really is...

The weather is beautiful on the east coast. It's early fall, the sun is bright, the sky is clear blue with puffy clouds. The evenings are crisp, but not too cold. No frost yet. Pumpkins are starting to appear on people's porches.

And, I found my lost friend, Monica, this week.

We've known each other for many years, having been best friends in high school. Then she disappeared. Everyone said not to worry - and I am not a worrier - but this was abnormal. We'd stayed in touch for over 25 years.

Turns out she was having troubles in her life and could have used a good friend. But, when everything seems to be coming apart, it takes all your energy to hold yourself together. I'm happy that she's okay and once again a part of my life. Even if you don't talk to someone all the time, it's a real blessing to be able to pick right up and keep going with another person who has shared your past.

So, Yea!

Life is good.

My Son

My first born turned 20 this week. Although he has legally been an adult for two years, being twenty years old seems like a real milestone into adulthood. When I look at him (and he came home from college to celebrate with the family this weekend), I see a fine young man. No - this is not a rant about how did time fly by so fast.

I've enjoyed all of these twenty years. Each stage of his development brought new wonder. I'm still amazed by the occasional remark or behavior. But, then I know I'm completely prejudiced - I'm his mother.

The day my son was born was truly the happiest day of my life - or at least the first such completely wonderful event. (The birth of my daughter two years later was also a awesome experience. But, this is not about her.) The initial days I spent caring for my son were so natural and perfect. Time seemed to stand still. I was on the baby's time schedule, not that of the world. There was nothing. . . but baby, daddy and me in our universe. I was filled with completeness and endless love.

I re-live that time again every September when my son's birthday comes around. I carry that feeling of peace and love forever in my heart. I recall it so well, it seems like a very short time ago.

I hope it always does.

Rosh Hashanah - A moving occurrence...

I read this in our work newsletter today and was interesting. So I'm sharing this here with you. Everyone should take time and reflect on the sins of the past year... probably would make a difference in how we treat each other.

Rosh Hashanah occurs 163 days after the first day of Passover. The earliest date on which Rosh Hashanah can fall is Sept. 5; the latest it can occur is Oct. 5.

During Rosh Hashanah, those who follow Jewish tradition review the mistakes they made in the past year and resolve to make improvements in the upcoming year. There are many traditions associated with Rosh Hashanah. The sounding of the shofar—a ram’s horn—during prayer services is one of the oldest traditions. Afterward, participants eat a festive meal in which challah and apples are dipped into honey. On the next day, they eat a new fruit not yet eaten that season. Many Jews also observe the Tashlich ritual. They symbolically cast off the sins of the previous year by tossing pieces of bread or other food into a body of flowing water.

Stiff Upper Lip

There are times when it's hard to maintain a positive attitude.

This week has tried my good nature. It's like a little dark rain cloud has been following me around. Hey, you! Get off of my cloud. (Wisdom credits - Jagger/Richards)

Perhaps it's biorhythms or something physical, but I truly believe it's metaphysical. I've been tired and kinda bummed out about having both of my kids off to college. Yes, I miss my little girl. It's an adjustment period I know I must go through. Layered on top is work pressures. Just plain old normal aggravation, but this week it's magnified.

Oh, and I got a $100 parking ticket (ouch). That was the icing on the week.

But, not really. Today is only Thursday and there are 2 more days left in the week. So, I'm gonna pick up my sorry sack of bones, dust off the seat of my pants, and have two really great days to balance off the week - so it's not a total loss.

What a great idea. Glad I thought of it.

It's really that simple, simple!

Go out and have yourself a great day too.

Empty Nesting

Got both of my kids off to college this past week. Today was the first day of classes, and I vividly recall what that was like when I was a freshman at the University of Maryland. It seemed so big and I felt so lost. My "kids" - a freshman and a junior at different colleges - go to smaller schools, but I bet it's the same experience on the first day of the fall semester.

In some ways my own college experience seems like yesterday, and then it doesn't. I grow faint when I think of how many years it has actually been since I moved into the dorm for the first time. I've always been one to embrace the experiences that life brings on. But, somewhere in the middle, some time got lost.

Oh, I know what I was doing in any given year, but in bulk that time between my kids starting kindergarten and graduating from high school is a blur. I know the reason is my two jobs kept me hopping - you know, the paying job and being a Mom. Now that my husband and I are here alone - in complete peace and quiet - I have time to reflect on such things. I also have time to blog again, talk with my own friends on FB, and do some projects around the house. I may even take a few art classes in the fall.

Come to think about it, being an empty nester - even if it is until Christmas break - doesn't seem all that bad.

Trials and Tribulations

Life occasionally throws you a curve ball.

My dog has injured both of his hind legs and may need at least one operation. The surgeon is out of town on a multi-week vacation. Lucky duck. My vacation is tomorrow and the kennel I use cannot accommodate my dog's special needs. Throw in a boa snake and African pygmy hedgehog that also need caretakers (yet to be found), and this isn't looking very good.

My in-laws paid for the beach house where the entire family is supposed to congregate for the next week. We are not the only family branch that ran into issues. So, it looks like the 7 bedrooms may not all be filled. And, that is making my in-laws very cranky. (They're in their mid and late 80's, so they are entitled.)

I'm writing this because I realize I lead a pretty charmed life. This is a very rare occurrence. I know people who have issues all the time. Don't know why some people have issues and others do not, but I suspect it has something to do with quality of choices and plain old luck.

While my recent luck has been less than perfect, I'm not complaining.

Firstly, nobody likes a complainer.
Secondly, complaining only makes you feel worse.
Thirdly, complaining doesn't fix anything.
Lastly, I believe negative energy begets negative results - and, complaining is definitely negative energy.

I don't know how this is all going to work out. I have all day to do whatever can be done. The point being, I am doing something about this and not sitting around feeling sorry for myself.

That was yesterday.

(joke - smile)

Stars in Our Eyes

When significant pop icons die, people reminisce and share memories of how that person impacted them.

Today, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson both passed away. The fact that neither was an old person made their deaths somewhat tragic. And both of these people were pop icons in the real sense. Farrah was THE poster pinup girl of the 1970's. Everyone knew that pose - you can see it in your head right now. Regardless of her other accomplishments -- and there were many from the news articles pouring out today -- it's as that '70's icon that we remember her.

Farrah's death at 62, while untimely, was expected. Reports earlier this week had her hospitalized, and she publicly discussed her cancer on TV just a few months ago. But, we still see her as that young tanned smiling beauty queen in the red bathing suit. It's the passing of that girl we mourn today.

Michael Jackson was the King of Pop. For Real! He was Elvis to another generation and now he has also tragically died too young. Michael Jackson reinvented himself several times. He was a true creative genius and the biggest pop icon of the 1980's and some would argue the 1990's.

I found myself humming "I'll be There" and "Beat It" today after hearing the news. I am not embarrassed. I admit it. I have liked Michael Jackson since he was that cute 6 year old singing with his brothers in the Jackson 5. I always had a soft spot for how his tragically atypical childhood turned him into a weird adult - after all, he gave up his childhood for all of us. And we loved him for it. Some part of me also feels dying at age 50 (he would have turned 51 in late August) seems just for someone who couldn't seem to deal with growing up. Now, he won't have to grow old.

I guess I should point out that according to an old wives tale, death comes in threes. And, that held true in this case too. Earlier this week, Ed McMahon died at 86. I had actually speculated about another Hollywood star's pending demise being number 3 -- guess he's safe, for now.

Another Year

I celebrated my birthday this week. Of course, this was my time to reflect on getting older. Know what? It's not so bad.

For instance, I am now only one year away from being eligible to retire. I won't really be financially positioned to retire next year, but I will have the option. And, that is an attitude changer. Lord knows, I could use some attitude adjusting from time-to-time.

I'm also going into a quasi-empty nest situation this coming year - let's call it a trial run. Both kids will be off at college. My husband and I have experienced what this will be like during the past two summer when our offspring were working at summer camp and only came home occassionally from June to August. So, I know this won't be so bad. In fact, there were some positives... our water bills have shrunk, as have our grocery bills and there's much less laundry to do. We also go through much less toilet paper.

This year's milestone also finds me exercising and making a semi-serious attempt at eating better. (It's only a half way attempt because people keep taking me out to eat to celebrate - alas this too shall pass.) I've made up my mind that I must become more active or die. That's a true statement - I'm now getting too old to not take care of myself. I have no interest in cutting any years off my life. Hopefully I have not already done so.

So, this was my birthday and upon reflection, things are going well.

Seems like a very positive start to my new year.

Silence is Golden

I've been quiet lately - and, nobody noticed.

That's been my plan from the start. I use this space to express my thoughts. I'm using this medium to practice the art of writing. And, no matter what, I am having fun doing this.

I know I'm not the most intelligent or astute writer and this blog is proof of that. But, I'm doing what I enjoy -- creating.

I create mostly for myself and for my own pleasure. I honestly admit I would like to get positive reinforcement. Mostly, I have gotten negative feedback on my ambling snippets posted here. (That's been from my children who think I should not be doing this.) Oh well. I can't please them no matter what I do, so I am shrugging that off as a by-product of their current phase... teenage.

I hope I have not offended anyone, but since few people have actually viewed this blog, there's little danger of such. As I already said, I'm not writing this for other people anyway.

So why not just have at it? It's pretty simple, simple!

Hats Off to the Girls Today!

Today, the 134th Preakness Stakes was run and for the first time since 1924 a filly won!

Not only did Rachael Alexandra win the race, she ran it out front from start to finish.

Not only did she own the race the entire way through, but she started from post position 13 - no horse has ever won the Preakness from this gate.

This is truly a remarkable event that occurred in rainy Baltimore today.

So, in honor of this brilliant run by a once in a century mare, I figuratively toss into the air my big brimmed Preakness bonnet and raise in a toast my Blackeyed Susan (a wonderful drink if you've never had one) to Rachael Alexandra.

You go, Girl!

See you in New York for the Belmont Stakes in early June.

Apologies

There's good and bad about being an online author. Until recently, I had kept the address of this blog secret because it's my place to practice writing and to unburden myself. Until recently...

I kept off Facebook because I knew it would upset my kids if I had an account - that they would see this as an invasion of their space. But, then I kept getting invites from my own friends to join. So I did. And, as expected my kids didn't like it. Especially when I friended their friends - hey, some of my kid's friends found me, not the other way around.

Now, I've published the link to this blog on my profile. Why? Because I wanted to see if anyone would come and leave me comments. I'm prepared to learn what readers think about my rants and raves. I'm not embarassed by anything I've written. This has always been out there subject to view and review by anyone.

Some things I've written have caused friction with my kids and that was not my intent. I am just being honest with my feelings and airing my opinions. In person, feelings and opinions don't always get through to others in the room. I'm the type person who has to put these feelings some place, and that's why I write in this blog. Once I put it here, I feel better.

So, if my thoughts voiced in this medium have upset anyone, let me say I'm sorry that was not my intention. But you also need to know that I wouldn't be writing in this blog if I didn't feel strongly. And, my feelings, thoughts, and opinions also matter.

At least here they do!

It's Kentucky Derby Day! Does Anyone Care?

Time to mix up some Mint Juleps, don a big wide-rimed hat, and weep to Stephen C. Foster's tune, "My Old Kentucky Home." Just like in the good old days...

Not!

American horse racing is on it's last legs. Especially in Maryland where I live and where half our family income is dependent upon horse racing.

The Tax Reform Act of 1986 eliminated tax shelters for owning race horses as an investment. That drove down the demand for horse flesh, which put the two leading thoroughbred horse breeding farms out of business. Today, 23 years later, there are not enough quality horses to run 9 quality races each day at live tracks. So, the race tracks have gone to simulcasting -- the sharing of live races via satellite to many tracks for remote viewing and betting.

That would have worked, except the betting demographic also changed -- for the worse. Handicaping was once a respectable past time where one could fill spare time with a mentally challenging and physically appealing sport with the promise of making money. At times, the payoff was darn good. Before the age of simulcasting, horses tended to run at the same tracks and the handicappers could follow these horses, learning about their trends (liked to run on a fast or dry track vs. good on a wet and muddy track for example), following the success of jockeys on these horses, and even knowing about the trainers and their "track records."

All this has changed. Not only is it nearly impossible to keep track of all the horse statistics for races being held internationally every day, but nobody has spare time to visit the track, to keep abreast of their favorate horses, nor is there an abundance of discressionary income with which to play the game.

And, mostly nobody much cares about horse racing these days. Racing horses was a favorate sport of land owners when this country (and others) were agriculturally centered. We humans had a connection with horses -- either as transportation, work tools, or family pets. We have lost touch with horses, so we don't much care if they run fast and can beat the star horse from the next town over.

So, today is the first big race in the Triple Crown of Thoroughbred Horse racing. Does anyone even realize it's happening? It's kinda sad to say probably not.

Kids Never Listen!

Okay - my daughter has picked her college and it's not the one I think she should attend. So, is this my decision or hers? That is the question.

Given I'm paying, I have a vested interest in the outcome of this decision. My choice for her is the school that best (in my opinion) prepares her for a future career. My choice school also is located in an urban setting where I know she won't get bored and will have many new opportunities.

So, why did she pick a dinky, liberal arts college in a country locale to study English, her native tongue? Because it's safe and cozy feeling after months of being stressed out by her high school college counselors. Argh.

It was also the advice of these professional college advisors that my child would fit best in this setting. What do they know? They don't know much about her except her grades and SAT scores. Frankly, if I had the chance, I'd put my foot up their you-know-whats for butting into matters where I don't think they belong.

As the biggest fan of my daughter's, I think my assessment of her talents, dreams and desires are much more on point that that of practical strangers. But, it's them she listened to. And, I'm pretty distressed about this. Why? Because I do not think it is okay to be mediocre. And, this is a pretty mediocre school as far as I can tell.

Okay, it's nationally ranked by U.S. News and World Report - as a liberal arts college. That's not much to go on. This only makes it better than all the rest of the dinky schools that didn't get ranked. I must stop now because I'm about to go on a rant and it's a waste of my time and yours. The deal is cut, the check is mailed, and I've got to accept the fact that my child is going to spend 4 years there.

But, I don't like it.

College Gitters

Yes, we've got the gotta chose a college in 10 days gitters. And, that's us, the parents.

We just found out today that the school my daughter really wants to attend awarded her less money than we had hoped. The reality that I'll never be able to retire -- and I'm getting tired -- is starting to hit home.

I had my children in my mid-30's. I didn't realize that would mean I would have to work until I died. I already have one child in college and this second one will drain our life's savings. And, we did save. We fore went vacations, cars, bigger houses, etc. to save for these college tuitions. The problem is we look rich compared to all the other folks who spent their money having a good time while we put it away for this rainy day.

I really love my daughter and I want her to be happy. So, tomorrow I'm calling the college financial aid office to enter my plea. I know going in I don't stand much of a chance, but I must try. I really want my daughter to attend this school, which is a very good fit for her.

That also brings up the fact that she didn't work as hard as she could have during her high school years - but neither did I, so who am I to point fingers?

I guess I'll be homeless when she finishes college, since my only option is to put my house up as colateral for loans to cover both her tuition and her brother's. Oh, well...

I won't need all that room - or will I? These kids had better get good jobs when they graduate coz there won't be room for them to live with us in our car.

No kidding!

Internet Happy Ending

I heard the most wonderful story today on the evening news.

A father and daughter separated over 30 years ago found each other thanks to Google. This is just one incident that shows how amazing is the power of Google and of search engines in general.

You can virtually find anyone or anything via your favorite search engine. I've been working with Internet technology since the early 1990's - in fact, one year ago I was awarded a patent for my pioneering work. And, frankly I'm not all that impressed with how things are going.

While there have been some major improvements to the technology we had 10 years ago when the web started to be used in earnest, the innovation I expected to see has been stunted by the need for profit by the business entities who now are driving this market segment.

Back in the early 1990's, Internet technology was being developed with government funding - hence the claim by Al Gore that he invented the Internet. That quote was taken out of context, but the point today is still valid... government works for the benefit of the people, while business works for the benefit of the stockholders.

So, I've got lot's of ideas about where the Internet should be headed and I'm not going to post them here because I haven't protected my intellectual property at this point. But, I intend to do so and then get started on taking the web to the next level... unfortunately, patents take about 8 years to get awarded. So, it may be awhile.

My Child is Great!

This posting is all about my daughter - I am a proud Mom.

I've had the opportunity to read some of my daughter's writing lately and I must say she is really a talented writer. I'm not just saying that because I think my child is the best. As an English major myself, I truly think she has a gift for descriptive narrative and poetry. In fact, she is competing for a literary scholarship at one of the colleges she may attend next year.

What I don't understand is why my daughter reacts negatively when I praise her work.

I know a thing or two about the English language and writing styles, and I have even read a book or two (ha, ha). And, I'm a fair writer myself - much of my professional success attests to this fact. So, it must not be that I am unqualified to critique her work that sets her off. It must be that mother-daughter thing.

Oh, that I do understand.

When I was a teen, I rarely got along with my own mother. I do now, but that's because I am a natural peace-maker. In other words, I give in and let her get her way. That's only part of the truth. I learned some insights about my mother when I was in my early 20s that made it much easier for me to make these compromises with her. She can't help herself and I can. So, I am in complete control of the situation and I let her think she is. Works out well every time. And, I'm a lot less aggravated when I'm around my mother.

I guess my daughter and I need to reach this same equilibrium in our relationship -- and that will probably also take a few more years to achieve. In the meantime, I will try to ignore the hurtful things that float from her lips (probably without touching her brain on the way out).

Well, I will not stop telling her how much I enjoy her writing. She'll have to get used to hearing it.

College Choices, Oh No!

It's April 1st and my daughter only has one month to pick a college to attend next year.

This is definitely a difficult decision and the hardest choice she's had to make so far in her life. And, it may be true that the school she selects will determine the path she takes for the rest of her time on this planet. Or not. Who knows.

Times have certainly changed. When I was a high school senior, I had two choices (not 7). I could go to our local community college (hell no!) or I could go to the state university (less bad). Too bad I wanted to explore going to school out of state. And, I had to pay for my own room and board. My parents were separating at the time and they could barely afford the $628/semester price tag. I worked two jobs (one on campus before classes and one after in the evenings) and it was hard. But, I admit I really learned to appreciate the value of a dollar. More importantly, I learned what I was made of. I worked so hard, I graduated in three years! I made it and it's still one of my life accomplishments for which I am very proud.

Today, semester costs have skyrocketed to over $20,000! No student can afford to pay their own way anymore. How can you work off that price tag at minimum wage? Impossible. And completely unfair. I read an article that said colleges and universities raised their tuitions to attract a better class of student. Yes! One such school's tuition went from $14,000/year to $43,000/year. And, the number of student's applying increased by 40%. How weird is that. People are stupid. They believe something is better because it costs more.

By the way - my daughter has applied to that school and been accepted. And, yes. We are going there on Friday for an accepted student day visit. Guess I'm stupid too. (I do like their architecture - sigh.)

Hey! Kick It Into Gear, Middle Class!

We, the hard-working saving American citizens are under attack.

Oh, the blood isn't literally flowing in the streets, but it's certainly flowing out of our veins in an even more horrific way... While we idly watch, we are being economically bled dry and our life blood - our life's savings are becoming worthless. And, we can't do a damn thing about it.

Or can we?

If the hard-working saving middle class pulls it's money out of the saving accounts and puts their cash under the mattress, will that solve anything? Well, it will ensure our money stays in our own hands. We aren't earning interest on this money while the corrupt bankers syphen off their huge bonuses. And, God forbid, the banks can always shut their doors and make our money unavailable to us.

But, should we?

Perhaps that is the more relevant question. I don't condone having a class war, mostly because I'm afraid the lower class and upper class will whip our ass - Frankly, the middle class has gotten soft in the belly. We'd be toast in a class war. Isn't that sad. It is to me. After dedicatedly working for nearly 30 years and living below my means to ensure I saved a nest egg for my retirement years, I can't believe I'm still going to eat dog food in my old age.

So what can we do?

We can vote! We can badger our elected officials and representatives until they heard our voices. We can band together and start looking out for ourselves -- instead of waiting for someone else take care of us. We must DEMAND to make people responsible for their actions. We must DEMAND accountability from those in whom we put our trust. We must DEMAND that our politicians have integrity and act with prudence when spending taxpayer dollars. We must DEMAND a return on our investment as we bail out poorly operated companies (who actually should go out of business.) We must DEMAND that common sense approaches be tried before the more risky scenarios are selected. We must DEMAND that the middle class is respected. Else we are just a nurse cow awaiting to be sucked dry.

When did we get to be so lazy? It's time to stand up and get noticed for being the backbone of this country. It's time to join forces and not let our nest eggs be targeted as the bailout funding source for greedy SOBs in the upper and lower class structures. What? This isn't PC? "F" if I care. Facing extinction isn't very appealing to me.

What about you? Do you want to become extinct? If not, get off your butt and do something about it!

Be Grateful - Things Can be Worse

Today I learned my mother has breast cancer.

Nobody in our family has ever had this disease before. That always gave me comfort. It hasn't happend to us, so our chances of getting this type of cancer were slim. Now we are opening a new chapter in our family history.

Oh, it could be worse. The other cancers that befell family members were fast acting death sentences. It's too soon to know if this is a contained or wide-spread cancer. But, it is a wake up call. Things can always be worse.

We are living through the worse financial crisis this country has seen in at least 70 years, if not the worse ever. That remains to be seen as time passes and the true magnitude of the situation unfolds. A lot of pain and misery is being felt by Americans -- those who have lost their jobs and livelihoods; those who have lost their homes; those who have lost their fortunes. But, everyday regardless of the year and financial situation, Americans lose their health.

I lost my father because he had no health insurance. He could not afford to pay the premiums, so he went without medical treatment that eventually cost him his life. My mother has health insurance and hopefully a good doctor. We are lucky. Many people are not able to get the care they need.

Last week I watched T. Boone Pickins on TV. He admitted he had made and lost three fortunes during his lifetime. He is a living example that wealth is regenerate able. But, once you lose your health, your chances of getting it back are not very good. T. Boone looked pretty darn good for an old guy. Hope Mom is lucky and this just turns out to be a minor bump in a yet longer road of life for her.

Economic Warfare - Wake Up America!

There's a lot of hype these days about the economy and everyone has an opinion. And, so do I.

Attention is being paid to those people who are in danger of losing their homes, their jobs, and their investments. That's the first side of the coin. And, I'm the first to not want to see innocent people thrown out on the street or going hungry because their employer went bust.

The other side of the coin is not getting much attention, and that's where I want to spend my attention today. What about all the people who worked hard, saved hard, and are also being hit hard by the country's economic downturn? Nobody is talking about a bailout for them. No, because they still have some of their savings left. Somehow that money they scrimped and saved now puts a bulls eye on their foreheads to be taxed to cover the money needed to pay down the obscene mortgages of the people who should have know better.

The media hype about the Obama administration is they are turning America into a socialist society. Maybe they are...

As one of the hard working, responsible people who didn't live above their means and saved for their children's college educations and for their own retirement, I am highly resentful of plans to take taxpayer money (my money) and bail out the people who lived it up on credit over the past 10-15 years. Equality opportunity is not about the redistribution of hard-earned wealth to those who could have saved, but chose not to do so. And, that is the truth of this situation. People lived high-on-the-hog and now it's time to pay up. But, those of us who steadily saved and didn't run up their credit card balances should not be the ones having to pay up.

I'm an Independent voter and I am very alarmed at how hap-hazzardly more and more money is being doled out. I know where this money is coming from - the taxpayer's pockets. Oh yes, people talk about how concerned they are -- about when the market will rebound. It's not about the stock market, but what money you have to buy food and pay your own mortgage. It's no longer a question about how fast we can regain our imaginary wealth, but how long we can hold on before one of the foreign countries now holding our national debt calls for payment and then owns America!

If the government drains the personal couffers of the middle class savers, there won't be anything left to anchor us against a financial takeover by an unfriendly foe. This is economic warfare.

Wake up, America!

Dear Mr. President...

Pick one thing and do it well.

That advice was given to me when I was coming up and I believe that is good advice for this new administration. We have a lot of problems to deal with, but can we effectively deal with them all at once? I doubt it. There's just not enough money, time, and people to tackle everything the President says he wants to accomplish.

I'm definately a lefty liberal, but this "be all things to all people" is a bad play. Come on, Obama. You are a smart guy. All you have to be is PRACTICAL. Your credibility is on the line, man.

Ah, Love is in the Air

It's Valentine's Day!

This morning, I awoke to red roses, heart balloons and lovely sentiments from my husband. I appreciate that he took the time to prepare all this for me. Especially since he took that time last evening, which happened to be his birthday.

While this may not seem like a lot to some people (you lucky spoiled bunch), this is representative of my relationship with my spouse. He's not into things, but feelings and thoughts. So, when he goes out of his way to bring me my favorite flowers and to buy outward signs of his affection, I'm thrilled.

Now, I know people may think I'm letting him off the hook easy. Many of my friends expect to get jewelry, clothes, trips, dinners out, etc. on Valentine's Day. I'm not into making my man jump through hoops to demonstrate his love for me. I get that every day. He's loyal, trustworthy, open and honest, and he's always here for me. What else do I need? I certainly don't need a bunch of junk laying around the house. That's for sure.

I am really the lucky one. I found a life partner whose love runs deeper than surface showery. We have been together for nearly a lifetime - I met him when I was just 18 and it's no secret that I've passed the fifty mark. I'd be lost with him and today he let's me know he feels the same way!

Dump Daschle - Public Opinion Does Work!

I borrowed this from a friend who makes valid points - worthwhile reading. Guess pressure like this pays off - Daschle withdrew from his nomination today! Visit this site at: www.yetmo.com.

Too many straws break a camel’s back. Well over 100,000 of them in the form of unpaid federal tax dollars ought to break the Senate’s backing of former Senator and Majority Leader Thomas A. Daschle’s quest to head the Department of Health and Human Services and serve as White House health czar.

Timothy F. Geithner was approved to serve as head of the Department of the Treasury, which oversees the Internal Revenue Service. He failed to report all his income and pay the required taxes, yet he received the Senate’s consent to be the nation’s Chief Tax Collector.

How then can I possibly suggest depriving the new president of his choice for changing the health care landscape in this country, especially if that pick is widely-known, well-liked, and effective in key Washington circles? Because at some point – and now would be a good one – a message of enough is enough should be sent by citizens and heard loudly by lawmakers.

Failure to end this seemingly endless cycle of high-powered, high-income, well-connected individuals being afforded breaks that the common citizen would never receive would be unpardonable.

We must speak out again. Just as I requested in my last column to contact your representatives and tell them to knock off the partisan games and get to work on solving our nation’s economic problems honestly and effectively, I ask again to call, write, or e-mail your Senator – or President Obama at 202-456-1111 – and say no to Tom Daschle.

Perspective is essential in this matter. IRS employees failing to report all their income risk immediate firing. In fact, stricter laws affecting employee behavior in general, not just for proper filing and paying of federal and state taxes, were enacted by Tom Daschle and other lawmakers in the IRS Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998. Provisions in that law struck fear into the hearts of these folks. I know. I was one of them for over 30 years.

Do you believe that one errant IRS employee, making $50,000 a year, could harm the integrity of the tax system or overall government operations more than a Congressperson who makes such laws or a cabinet member? This is not to excuse a renegade government employee. It is certainly also not to excuse elected or appointed officials from improper behavior.

Think, too, that Daschle’s unpaid taxes exceed the annual income of about 90% of all Americans. His unpaid taxes. Not his total tax bill, and certainly not his total income, which was reported to be in excess of $5 million since he left Congress. For the new Administration, which seems intent on extracting more taxes from higher income citizens, absolving Tom Daschle (and Timothy Geithner) seems oddly off message and bordering on hyperbolic hypocrisy.

This is not personal. This is not partisan. Daschle obviously possesses wonderful qualities and strengths as a person and deal-maker. His former colleagues are racing to his defense. It is about President Obama’s self-proclaimed “New Era of Responsibility.”

If those at the top cannot accept responsibility for their actions, how can they – or we – expect the same from the rest of us underlings?

If this nomination succeeds, it will not represent a double standard. It would be a double standard squared.

Fred W. Apelquist, III
Approximately 540 words.
© February 3, 2009

Peace, Love, Obama!

Deja Vu!

All the sudden, it feels like 1970 again. (Except I'm not 15...)

Youth is important and has a voice in how the country is being run. The national mall in DC was filled with people celebrating their voting power. Music was a binding medium, bridging gender, racial and generational gaps. People were willing to brave unkind temperatures, walk on foot to the venues, and wait in lines. And, the people attending Tuesday's inaugural events were nice to each other!

Like I said, Deja Vu! But, this is 2009. And, this is real...

Well, things have certainly gotten off to a great start in the new Obama administration. Not only are the citizens excited and happily walking the streets arm-in-arm, but our new Commander-in-Chief has already started making his mark. He's wasting no time taking visible action to make good on his campaign promises.

The other day, I heard on the radio coverage of the inauguration events that people on the national mall were chanting "Peace, Love, Obama!"

That's really cool. People are excited and hopeful that things can really change and get better. This is kinda surreal. It's like living in a movie. Hey - I always wanted to live in a movie! This is great. And, I'm not going to jinx this by saying anything negative. It's all good. Let's enjoy it.

It's Finally Here - George W. Bush's Last Day in Office!

This is the day I (and many others) have awaited for a long, long time. Eight years. Eight depressing, embarrassing, agonizing, painful years of this man's blatant disregard for the American citizen's rights, needs, and honor.

It's finally here. His LAST day in office.

Tomorrow, the damage control begins. I hope we can recover from the inane ineptitude of George W. Bush and his pack of selfish cohorts. Good riddance to the lot of them. During the President's farewell speech the other evening, I was amazed (didn't think that it was possible) at Bush's lack of conscious acknowledgment of his role in creating the current economic crisis; of his complete denial that he illegally put America at odds with the rest of the world over our invasion of Iraq; of his eight year battle against the middle class; of his disdain for civil servants, whose jobs were outsourced in a thinly veiled corporate welfare scheme; and, lastly his plain ignorance about how Americans view his legacy. Legacy - that's a very fancy word for crimes against humanity.

I am celebrating tonight that George W. Bush is finally out of office. He has single-handedly brought America to the brink of disaster.

Good job, W.

Now get the hell out of "the People's house!" Don't let the door hit you on your ass on the way out.

Positive New Year - Oh Yeah!

Have you read the news laterly?

There's not a lot of goodness going on. Our humanity is on the brink of becoming terminal as world and economic tensions rise. To further fuel human anxiety, Mother Earth is starting to wobble as the melting ice caps have flooded pockets of the planet in unequal measures. Christmas cheer and "Goodwill and Peace on Earth" was blown to smithereens on Christmas Day started by Hamas and Israel. (Why did they have to ruin our holiday?) A local 69 year old man was attacked and beaten with a baseball bat in his church's parking lot while headed to Christmas Eve mass - at least they caught the perpetrator today. And, 5 members of one family died in a house fire in DC because the 1940's home's wall structure enabled fire to tunnel through the walls unabated - a problem rectified in subsequent constructure code improvements. Wall street's end-of-year losses were unfathomably huge, so much paper wealth was lost that it makes your eyes cross.

So, now it's another year. What are we going to do with it? More of the same or by some miracle, do better? How are you feeling at this moment? Are you an optimist or a pessimist? Or perhaps, you are a realist.

It really doesn't matter. None of us has a crystal ball. We can only do our best, day by day. I believe if we all took this position and thought less about how to get power, things, and people and more about taking it slow and easy, life would improve.

In 2009 I plan to do just this - slow and easy, each day at a time, making the most of the things within my sphere of control. And, when you think about it, there are many things within arm's reach that we affect... our family, coworkers, neighbors, strangers, classmates, parishioners, service providers, sales associates, bank tellers, cab drivers, etc. I have a pretty wide network and I pledge to do my best to make a positive and lasting impact on those with whom I have contact. After all, it's the people in our lives - closely related or mere associates - who in turn can pass on that positive energy to others within their network. And so it spreads. Good will and positive energy.

Go out and spread your positive energy. It's catching!

Let's make this truly a happy new year.