There is a position open for the Alsea School Board and I'd like to serve in this way to help the children at the school. I believe strongly that all children have unlimited potential, except for those who are brain damaged. I believe that all have the potential to go on to college and make their dreams come true. I'm surprised that this isn't the case since not all students enter college who live here. There have been several examples of almost every student going on to college even those who live in severely economically disadvantaged areas because of the program and teachers. I've been critical about the lack of a federal school lunch program which I feel would help many children to have a free hot breakfast and lunch.
The deadline is the 19th of March. What is holding me back? Several reasons.....
1. No one has encouraged me to run. No one around here seems to want anyone disrupting what they are doing now. I've volunteered to help set up enrichment programs in the past but it was always discouraged or not wanted.
2. My husband has been seriously ill and needs care.
3. I had an experience as a Gates City Council member which makes me hesitate. I'll tell you the story. We were in a meeting. I questioned whether the issue discussed should be in an open meeting. The person in charge walked to the front door and opened the door saying, "It's now an open meeting." I then said that no one was alerted to the fact in the paper that it was an open meeting. I asked to see on paper where what we were doing was legal since I am big on following the rules. It turned out that I was right and that the meeting was in violation of the law. I was asked to sign saying that I had done something illegal. I refused to sign because I was the only one that even questioned it. I stood up for doing the right thing. Since everyone else signed, no one else had a problem. No one would help me take this blemish off my record even though I tried to do the right thing so how could I protect myself under similiar circumstances as a member of the school board?
Friday, March 13, 2009
Good Samaritan Hospital
I'd enjoy working at Good Samaritan Hospital. The people are all there to serve and help others. They are intelligent, active, busy, and doing what they believe in. I'd love to be part of it. I've applied in the past for probably over 35 jobs that I am qualified for but I've never received a phone call to even come in for an interview. I have a bachelors degree in social science. I'd love to eat in the great cafeteria with all the great food choices.
Alsea School
The Alsea School is one of three school districts in the state of Oregon without a federal school lunch program. The Corvallis Gazette Times ran a story on the front page last Sunday about this issue.
I believe there should be a federal program that is free for any child who needs it to make sure that children have the nutrition they need in order to learn. Many school districts all over the United States have federal school lunch programs. I believe that it is the easiest way to solve the problem of getting food to the students.
The meals that have been provided over the years have had a charge of $2.00 to $2.50, which those who would qualify for the free program cannot afford. Volunteers through the years have worked hard to cook meals for the kids but it takes more volunteer manpower to cook these meals than if they would just hire a cook, which would give someone a job who needs it. The meals that have been provided at a price haven't been offered every day.
Some say that the people are coming up with money to pay for the meals for those who can't afford it but I have talked to students who say that some children go hungry. Pride is the reason I think.
I've been told that as much as over 50% would qualify years ago. Then I heard that the figure was 25%. In the article in the Gazette Times, it lowered the figure even more to 10 to 15%. Even if the lower figure is true, it is too many children not receiving help.
I've lived in Alsea for 7 1/2 years and have talked to many people about this. I've written letters for grants to the Gates Foundation and to Myers Trust. I'm not a professional grant writer but I alerted them to the need. Nothing happened. I spent time talking to a gentleman at the Clemens Foundation in Philomath who was also concerned and said that they would be happy to pay for the cost of setting up the needed lunch room but the Alsea School has to want it. I've talked to state politicians about this issue. I've talked to people who live here. I've talked to the school board.
In my opinion, the list of excuses don't outweigh the strong need for nutrition for children who are in school who may not receive it at home.I've been told that the Corvallis School District offered to truck meals to the school but it was refused. I've been told that a local sherrif deputy offered to transport milk from Corvallis but it was refused.The former school board president, Brian Leavitt seems to be the strongest voice against the federal school lunch program since he goes to Salem to lobby before the legislature. He's also the minister of the Church of Christ in Lobster Valley close to Alsea. He's the Fire Chief. He's a federal marshall. I don't understand this. He volunteers a lot to help people in the community. It doesn't make any sense to me.
I sincerely hope that someone provides the funds needed to set up the program so that the Alsea School can qualify. It said in the article in the Corvallis Gazette Times that it would take $250,000 to make it happen plus the salaries of two employees. Anyone out there with deep pockets and a heart who cares?
I believe there should be a federal program that is free for any child who needs it to make sure that children have the nutrition they need in order to learn. Many school districts all over the United States have federal school lunch programs. I believe that it is the easiest way to solve the problem of getting food to the students.
The meals that have been provided over the years have had a charge of $2.00 to $2.50, which those who would qualify for the free program cannot afford. Volunteers through the years have worked hard to cook meals for the kids but it takes more volunteer manpower to cook these meals than if they would just hire a cook, which would give someone a job who needs it. The meals that have been provided at a price haven't been offered every day.
Some say that the people are coming up with money to pay for the meals for those who can't afford it but I have talked to students who say that some children go hungry. Pride is the reason I think.
I've been told that as much as over 50% would qualify years ago. Then I heard that the figure was 25%. In the article in the Gazette Times, it lowered the figure even more to 10 to 15%. Even if the lower figure is true, it is too many children not receiving help.
I've lived in Alsea for 7 1/2 years and have talked to many people about this. I've written letters for grants to the Gates Foundation and to Myers Trust. I'm not a professional grant writer but I alerted them to the need. Nothing happened. I spent time talking to a gentleman at the Clemens Foundation in Philomath who was also concerned and said that they would be happy to pay for the cost of setting up the needed lunch room but the Alsea School has to want it. I've talked to state politicians about this issue. I've talked to people who live here. I've talked to the school board.
In my opinion, the list of excuses don't outweigh the strong need for nutrition for children who are in school who may not receive it at home.I've been told that the Corvallis School District offered to truck meals to the school but it was refused. I've been told that a local sherrif deputy offered to transport milk from Corvallis but it was refused.The former school board president, Brian Leavitt seems to be the strongest voice against the federal school lunch program since he goes to Salem to lobby before the legislature. He's also the minister of the Church of Christ in Lobster Valley close to Alsea. He's the Fire Chief. He's a federal marshall. I don't understand this. He volunteers a lot to help people in the community. It doesn't make any sense to me.
I sincerely hope that someone provides the funds needed to set up the program so that the Alsea School can qualify. It said in the article in the Corvallis Gazette Times that it would take $250,000 to make it happen plus the salaries of two employees. Anyone out there with deep pockets and a heart who cares?
Strength
How am I? I am just fine. I am a very strong person and amazingly resilient no matter what comes at me. I adjust. I survive. I find activities to keep busy that work into my schedule.
Writing is a constant and necessary to finding meaning in my life. I'm working on four novel length manuscripts at this time, all in different stages of revision. Getting lost in my writing helps and heals life that is going on around me that may be difficult.
I'm excited about my garden this summer and I'm looking forward to seeing vegetables, fruit, and flowers grow. I'm excited to taste my first tomato and eating my first handful of peas in the pod as I stand in my gardening watering.
I am concentrateing on helping Les to make sure he has what he needs, to drive him where he needs to go, and be supportive. I want him to get better and to heal so he can have fun doing what he enjoys.
Life is good even though sometimes it poses challenges that are difficult and not easy. I look forward to the good that this year brings.
Writing is a constant and necessary to finding meaning in my life. I'm working on four novel length manuscripts at this time, all in different stages of revision. Getting lost in my writing helps and heals life that is going on around me that may be difficult.
I'm excited about my garden this summer and I'm looking forward to seeing vegetables, fruit, and flowers grow. I'm excited to taste my first tomato and eating my first handful of peas in the pod as I stand in my gardening watering.
I am concentrateing on helping Les to make sure he has what he needs, to drive him where he needs to go, and be supportive. I want him to get better and to heal so he can have fun doing what he enjoys.
Life is good even though sometimes it poses challenges that are difficult and not easy. I look forward to the good that this year brings.
Family
During a crisis, family gather together to support. When Les was in the hospital, Daniel flew out from Ohio to spend a couple of days to be supportive. Gretchen visited three times and called often to talk to Les. Ben called and kept in touch often. Jeanine, Les' sister near Chicago called and kept in touch.
I wish all our family could live on the same street so I could invite everyone to dinner often. No chance of that. Everyone has a busy life and work in other states so it just isn't possible. In my dreams................
I wish all our family could live on the same street so I could invite everyone to dinner often. No chance of that. Everyone has a busy life and work in other states so it just isn't possible. In my dreams................
Les
Les is doing much better and adjusting to dialysis. He had acute renal failure and we don't know why. The doctors don't have answers yet. They have taken every test but no clear answers yet. He got out of the hospital on Tuesday. He spent over a week in the hospital. I'm learning lots of new vocabulary words and I'm learning about new medical issues that will probably find its way into novels in the future.
Daniel
While Les was in the hospital at Good Samaritan, our son, Daniel flew out from Ohio for a couple of days to help us. He arranged for records to be sent from OHSU to the doctors and set up Google Health for Les plus a similiar medical account with Microsoft. It was great to see him. It was comforting to see him. I know that Daniel didn't have the time since he's always so busy but he makes time for what is most important to him. He's always been my hero. I've always admired everything that he stands for and everything that he is. He's such a good person. I miss him. I wish I could live near Daniel. He's thoughtful and kind and good and brilliant and has great ideas.
Friday, March 06, 2009
If I built a hospital...
If I built a hospital I would do things differently.
1. It would have a large fitness center that all staff at the hospital, patients, and visitors can use. It would have a huge lap pool and plenty of aerobic and weight machines.
2. It would have a wing just dedicated to families of patients to check them out to see how they are doing and monitor their health to give them needed care.
3. It would have a free healthy snack cart 24/7 for anyone coming onto each hospital floor.
4. It would have consultations that include family with printouts of what's wrong with the patient with daily updates for the family. All doctors and anyone dealing with the patient would meet in a circle conference exchanging what is needed for care and families can sit in. The families would be notified of these daily meetings so they can listen and receive daily printouts about their family member.
5. It would have hospital beds that are much different than the normal hospital beds. My beds would have biomedical devises to passively exercise the body to prevent problems that come from not moving for prolonged periods of time. You would be cradled in the bed in comfort but the bed would have the ability to move limbs and massage body.
6. And of course, my hospital would have free health care for anyone walking in the door because that is the RIGHT thing to do. Care and prevention is first priority. No one would have to worry about losing their house and everything they have because of large hospital bills.
1. It would have a large fitness center that all staff at the hospital, patients, and visitors can use. It would have a huge lap pool and plenty of aerobic and weight machines.
2. It would have a wing just dedicated to families of patients to check them out to see how they are doing and monitor their health to give them needed care.
3. It would have a free healthy snack cart 24/7 for anyone coming onto each hospital floor.
4. It would have consultations that include family with printouts of what's wrong with the patient with daily updates for the family. All doctors and anyone dealing with the patient would meet in a circle conference exchanging what is needed for care and families can sit in. The families would be notified of these daily meetings so they can listen and receive daily printouts about their family member.
5. It would have hospital beds that are much different than the normal hospital beds. My beds would have biomedical devises to passively exercise the body to prevent problems that come from not moving for prolonged periods of time. You would be cradled in the bed in comfort but the bed would have the ability to move limbs and massage body.
6. And of course, my hospital would have free health care for anyone walking in the door because that is the RIGHT thing to do. Care and prevention is first priority. No one would have to worry about losing their house and everything they have because of large hospital bills.
Les
Les is at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis. He's been there since Monday. He's been growing gradually weaker over the last three months. He had a bunch of blood tests last month at OHSU that didn't reveal anything significant. He talked to his doctor in Salem last Thursday or Friday and she didn't say it was urgent. Les wanted to wait to come in to the Benton County Health Department on Monday. I called at 8 a.m. and they made an appointment for him at 3 p.m. When we got there, there wasn't an appointment available but someone talked to us and told us we should go to the emergency room at Good Samaritan so we did. I'm sure glad we did.
Everyone at Good Samaritan Hospital has been so nice and are doing everything they can to figure out what's wrong. He's had every test in the book with specialists to monitor and consult. He's now on dialysis, which was a shock. He had acute kidney failure but they don't know the cause yet. He's had an EKG, eco cardiogram, CT scan, ultra sound, and yesterday he went for an MRI because they wonder if he had a stroke. He's been through a difficult time. I've been there every day for hours to see him. Yesterday, we played a short game of canasta but he wasn't able to continue. He's ordering his own meals and having fun with that. He feels like he's on a cruise ship without the rudder.
He's getting much better and stronger. When he comes home, he'll concentrate on getting well, follow dietary restrictions, and do what he wants. We haven't found out yet what caused the problems in the first place. It's a medical mystery so far but everyone is doing everything they can to figure it out. We're waiting to get medical records faxed to Good Samaritan from OHSU and Benton Health Department to help the doctors. Everyone is working hard to find answers.
I'm worried about what the cost of all this care and if we will lose our home and be booted out on the street. At 61, I don't want to live under a bridge or on the street. I sure hope President Obama gets the health care system fixed so there is free health care for everyone just like there is in Canada and England and the rest of Europe. Emphasis should be on prevention and no one should have to go without medical care.
Everyone at Good Samaritan Hospital has been so nice and are doing everything they can to figure out what's wrong. He's had every test in the book with specialists to monitor and consult. He's now on dialysis, which was a shock. He had acute kidney failure but they don't know the cause yet. He's had an EKG, eco cardiogram, CT scan, ultra sound, and yesterday he went for an MRI because they wonder if he had a stroke. He's been through a difficult time. I've been there every day for hours to see him. Yesterday, we played a short game of canasta but he wasn't able to continue. He's ordering his own meals and having fun with that. He feels like he's on a cruise ship without the rudder.
He's getting much better and stronger. When he comes home, he'll concentrate on getting well, follow dietary restrictions, and do what he wants. We haven't found out yet what caused the problems in the first place. It's a medical mystery so far but everyone is doing everything they can to figure it out. We're waiting to get medical records faxed to Good Samaritan from OHSU and Benton Health Department to help the doctors. Everyone is working hard to find answers.
I'm worried about what the cost of all this care and if we will lose our home and be booted out on the street. At 61, I don't want to live under a bridge or on the street. I sure hope President Obama gets the health care system fixed so there is free health care for everyone just like there is in Canada and England and the rest of Europe. Emphasis should be on prevention and no one should have to go without medical care.
Monday, March 02, 2009
Medical Safety Net
There isn't a medical safety net for millions of people here in the United States without insurance. I have hope that President Obama will change this.
Right now my husband is having a medical crisis. The Benton County Health Department told him not to come back. A letter to one of the doctors at the Lincoln Clinic by my husband was ignored asking for help. Good Samaritan Hospital told him not to come back. He challenged many items on his bill that showed double billing, a charge from a doctor who didn't even treat him, and other disparities. What do you do?
In Canada and European countries, the care of the patient comes first and doctors don't even think about the money. They think about helping, curing, and finding ways to solve the medical problem but not in this country. Greed rules in the United States.
He called his doctor on Friday in Salem and she told him to get a test done if the problems persist in two weeks. He needs to be seen now. As soon as it is 8 a.m., I'll call around to find SOMEONE to help him. Is compassion tossed in the garbage these days?
All people need to have the medical care they need without thought of money or having to lose their home to pay medical bills. Instead people have to ignore symptoms which makes things rise to an emergency. There is considerable stress in not having the opportunity to receive care. Focus should be on prevention and care of the patient.
Right now my husband is having a medical crisis. The Benton County Health Department told him not to come back. A letter to one of the doctors at the Lincoln Clinic by my husband was ignored asking for help. Good Samaritan Hospital told him not to come back. He challenged many items on his bill that showed double billing, a charge from a doctor who didn't even treat him, and other disparities. What do you do?
In Canada and European countries, the care of the patient comes first and doctors don't even think about the money. They think about helping, curing, and finding ways to solve the medical problem but not in this country. Greed rules in the United States.
He called his doctor on Friday in Salem and she told him to get a test done if the problems persist in two weeks. He needs to be seen now. As soon as it is 8 a.m., I'll call around to find SOMEONE to help him. Is compassion tossed in the garbage these days?
All people need to have the medical care they need without thought of money or having to lose their home to pay medical bills. Instead people have to ignore symptoms which makes things rise to an emergency. There is considerable stress in not having the opportunity to receive care. Focus should be on prevention and care of the patient.
Seattle
I visited Seattle by Amtrak on February 25th and came back on the 27th. I had a great time visiting my son, Ben for my birthday and to meet my newest grandchild, Anna Rose. Anna is such a good little baby and such a beautiful little girl. I can't get over how smart and alert she is at only two weeks old. I got some beautiful pictures that are precious to me.
Joan Stradling
Congratulations to Joan Stradling for winning the Simon and Schuster Children's Book Contest for her book, WHO INVITES A PIG TO DINNER? She wins $1000 from Cheerios. I'm very happy for you, Joan. Your win is richly deserved.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Albany and Lebanon
I recently learned in a financial fitness class that Albany and Lebanon Oregon share something in common. They top the list as number one for identity theft and fraud in the nation. It make me want to not even stop to shop or do anything in that area. That's pretty scarey. Be weary when shopping in Albany or Lebanon. Keep your ID close and be careful.
I've always loved going to shop in Albany whenever I've had enough money, and I never encountered any problems but after learning this, it makes me realize I need to be more careful when I do. I also like Lebanon because it has Wal-Mart and it's a cute town but I learned it has a lot of drugs and crime.
I guess there are dangers that lerk almost anywhere. All you have to do is read mystery novels to realize what can happen. I think that the trick is to be careful, watch, be alert, and don't deliberately put yourself at risk.
I've always loved going to shop in Albany whenever I've had enough money, and I never encountered any problems but after learning this, it makes me realize I need to be more careful when I do. I also like Lebanon because it has Wal-Mart and it's a cute town but I learned it has a lot of drugs and crime.
I guess there are dangers that lerk almost anywhere. All you have to do is read mystery novels to realize what can happen. I think that the trick is to be careful, watch, be alert, and don't deliberately put yourself at risk.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Book Fair
The Friends of the Corvallis Library had their annual book fair this weekend and I couldn't go because I don't have two nickels to rub together. Sad but true. I love books. It's painful and hard on me that I couldn't go. I'm tired of not having any money to spend on things. I don't want a lot. I just want to buy books once in awhile and fabric. I want to be able to buy everything I want to eat healthy--like all the fresh fruit and vegetables that I want, and fish, like halibut.
Books are what I really enjoy buying. Books are a necessity, especially if the book is a keeper. Some books I don't care about and don't want to read again or to use as a reference. I enjoy scanning the paperbacks on sale for 25 cents at the Alsea Library to see if there are good ones. At the first of the month when I have a couple of bucks, I buy a few. I usually buy mysteries.
Books are what I really enjoy buying. Books are a necessity, especially if the book is a keeper. Some books I don't care about and don't want to read again or to use as a reference. I enjoy scanning the paperbacks on sale for 25 cents at the Alsea Library to see if there are good ones. At the first of the month when I have a couple of bucks, I buy a few. I usually buy mysteries.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Evaluating My Life
About three to four times a year or more often, I take a look at my life. I look at what works and what doesn't work. I realize that there are many things about my life that I can't change so I try to concentrate on what I can do something about. As I look at my life this morning, I will recommit to the following four areas to drive my goals forward--writing, reading, gardening, and exercising. I see that I need to make specific goals for each with deadlines. I will need to spend more time in planning at the end of the day and each week.
I usually write down all the areas of my life for evaluation. Here's the current status:
Friends--None
Family--I'm a pain in the butt and an annoyance to everyone.
Work--Not employed.
Writing--Not making any money.
Spiritual--I don't have a church home.
Husband--We play canasta daily. I do whatever I can to help him and he does whatever he can for me.
Financial--No savings or insurance. I have $500 in a 401K that I earned from Joann Fabrics that goes down daily.
I believe that things are going to get better and that I can turn things around. I can't do anything about some areas except to try. I'm nice to people when I see others. I work hard but I'm not getting any where. I have a lot to work on and a lot to learn. If I need to talk, I don't have friends to call who would listen or want to talk. My family are busy with lives of their own. It's isn't right to be a burden on anyone.
I get up each day and try to appreciate what I have. I have many blessings. I have many opportunities to learn and grow. I can have a large garden. I can work on making quilts. I can read great words in books. When I see people, I can smile and be as nice as possible, which I always try hard to do. I can start practicing the piano again. I can sew my clothes. I can finish writing projects and work on revisions. I have so much beauty surrounding me and birds that visit our property. I can exercise using my Wii Fit every day.
I will keep trying and keep working to make the quality of my life better. I have faith that my life will get better, if I keep trying, work hard and never give up.
I usually write down all the areas of my life for evaluation. Here's the current status:
Friends--None
Family--I'm a pain in the butt and an annoyance to everyone.
Work--Not employed.
Writing--Not making any money.
Spiritual--I don't have a church home.
Husband--We play canasta daily. I do whatever I can to help him and he does whatever he can for me.
Financial--No savings or insurance. I have $500 in a 401K that I earned from Joann Fabrics that goes down daily.
I believe that things are going to get better and that I can turn things around. I can't do anything about some areas except to try. I'm nice to people when I see others. I work hard but I'm not getting any where. I have a lot to work on and a lot to learn. If I need to talk, I don't have friends to call who would listen or want to talk. My family are busy with lives of their own. It's isn't right to be a burden on anyone.
I get up each day and try to appreciate what I have. I have many blessings. I have many opportunities to learn and grow. I can have a large garden. I can work on making quilts. I can read great words in books. When I see people, I can smile and be as nice as possible, which I always try hard to do. I can start practicing the piano again. I can sew my clothes. I can finish writing projects and work on revisions. I have so much beauty surrounding me and birds that visit our property. I can exercise using my Wii Fit every day.
I will keep trying and keep working to make the quality of my life better. I have faith that my life will get better, if I keep trying, work hard and never give up.
House Hunters
It's fun to watch House Hunters and House Hunters International on HGTV. You get to see the world and other parts of the U.S. plus tour homes. It does wet my appetitite for more. I've always wanted a 4,000 to 5,000 square foot home overlooking water or the ocean within walking distance to a gym, shopping, a library, and restaurants. I would need a room just for floor to ceiling books cases for a library with comfortable chairs and a large table to spread out papers, a large kitchen with granite counter tops, a lap pool, a great room, large size rooms, and many other features that would be important to me. However, I can't afford all this but I can write about things like this in my novels. I always dream big and my husband says I always want more than I have.
Putting all this into perspective, dreams like this don't work unless everyone can have it. It doesn't work out when a few can have and the majority can't. It would be nice if everyone can have the perfect home of their dreams. That is what I wish for everyone.
When I was very young, probably in the 5 to 8 age range, I used to listen to a recording of a book about a statue of a prince who had jewels and gold leaves all over. A bird--a swallow sat on his shoulder. As the prince heard or saw great need around him, he would tell the swallow, pretty swallow, to take the gold leaf and other valuable ornaments off him to give to the poor. Even the jewels for his eyes were given to the poor so the swallow became his eyes. Slowly, the statue of the prince was reduced to barren stone. After that the swallow died from the cold, the heart inside the statue of the prince cracked.
Putting all this into perspective, dreams like this don't work unless everyone can have it. It doesn't work out when a few can have and the majority can't. It would be nice if everyone can have the perfect home of their dreams. That is what I wish for everyone.
When I was very young, probably in the 5 to 8 age range, I used to listen to a recording of a book about a statue of a prince who had jewels and gold leaves all over. A bird--a swallow sat on his shoulder. As the prince heard or saw great need around him, he would tell the swallow, pretty swallow, to take the gold leaf and other valuable ornaments off him to give to the poor. Even the jewels for his eyes were given to the poor so the swallow became his eyes. Slowly, the statue of the prince was reduced to barren stone. After that the swallow died from the cold, the heart inside the statue of the prince cracked.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Alsea Library
I volunteered at the Alsea Library on Wednesday morning. I had been asked to come to the library to help people with word processing or work on their resumes. I was surprised and pleased to see a nice poster on the front door saying that I would come on Wednesday mornings and that I would also help anyone interested in writing a novel. That was nice of the librarian to write.
Mary Rounds, the librarian for the Alsea Library is the one who asked me and put up the poster.
She made me feel welcome by doing so. Although no one was interested in my help on Wednesday, I asked to help around the library since I was there. I shredded papers and straightened the juvenile section. I had a great time dressing the books.
While I was on the floor, I found Junie B. Jones on the bottom shelf. She isn't happy one bit for she wants to be noticed and read. She is clammering for attention. [At the risk of disappointing those who always want to think the worst of me...No, I don't hear or see things that aren't there. I just have a rich imagination, as do all writers.]
I was also happy to find a book by Judy Cox, a children's author who lives in eastern Oregon and who taught a class I attended about writing for children. She's such a nice person and talented writer.
One thing that is wonderful about a library is that unlike most groups in a community, all these books sit side by side with many differing points of view and they get along. They don't throw each other off the shelf, try to hurt one another, or say mean things. They coexist. What a wonderful example of respect for all. I have always loved the library and being around books. Books are comforting to me and in them are words of wisdom, great thoughts, and adventures to experience. I believe it is important to read many different points of view, think about it, and then come to your own conclusion.
Mary Rounds, the librarian for the Alsea Library is the one who asked me and put up the poster.
She made me feel welcome by doing so. Although no one was interested in my help on Wednesday, I asked to help around the library since I was there. I shredded papers and straightened the juvenile section. I had a great time dressing the books.
While I was on the floor, I found Junie B. Jones on the bottom shelf. She isn't happy one bit for she wants to be noticed and read. She is clammering for attention. [At the risk of disappointing those who always want to think the worst of me...No, I don't hear or see things that aren't there. I just have a rich imagination, as do all writers.]
I was also happy to find a book by Judy Cox, a children's author who lives in eastern Oregon and who taught a class I attended about writing for children. She's such a nice person and talented writer.
One thing that is wonderful about a library is that unlike most groups in a community, all these books sit side by side with many differing points of view and they get along. They don't throw each other off the shelf, try to hurt one another, or say mean things. They coexist. What a wonderful example of respect for all. I have always loved the library and being around books. Books are comforting to me and in them are words of wisdom, great thoughts, and adventures to experience. I believe it is important to read many different points of view, think about it, and then come to your own conclusion.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Amazon Breakthrough Novelist Award Contest
I'm so disappointed! I am more than disappointed, I am devastated. I missed the deadline for the Amazon Breakthrough Novelist Award Contest open to participants of National Novel Writing Month last November who completed the challenge of writing the first draft of a novel in a month. Guess who is one of the judges? Sue Grafton--my favorite mystery writer. She won't be the judge next year.
I kept putting it on my list to check the date. I shouldn't think about anything else in life other than writing. I need a large writing calendar from Office Max. I put it on the grocery list but it never found its way home. I need to close myself off to the world and not surface until I get my writing done for the day. I need to cocoon myself. Maybe I shouldn't do anything else but work on my writing assignments and read.
When I told my husband, he smiled. What kind of husband smiles at his wife's disappointment? We've been married for almost 37 years. I'm tired of his daily medical drama.
Damn it! I can't let this happen again. It has been happening too much to me through the years. I've been waiting for this opportunity. Maybe I wouldn't have made it but I wanted to try. I keep slipping through the cracks. I don't have money to go to all the wonderful writing workshops offered through Willamette Writers. Every year I want to go to the screenwriting workshop offered by the President of Willamette Writers, the amazing and talented Cynthia Whitcomb but every year it goes by without my having the money to attend. I'm tired of it.
The answer is that the only one I can control is myself. I have to recommit to my daily writing schedule and let nothing come in conflict with it. I can't worry about the kids in Alsea not having a school lunch program. I can't worry about loading manure on my garden. I can't worry about my health. I can't worry about anything until I get my writing done for the day. I love getting up early and going to bed early. I got up at 5 this morning. I am scheduled to help people at the library in Alsea today learn how to use the word processor and write their resumes. I shouldn't be volunteering until I have my own life going smoothly and until I have enough money for some breathing room. I need to reassess and reevaluate.
Yesterday my neighbor, Nancy was kind enough to have manure brought over into my garden. It was a wonderful gift and I'm grateful. I hid away in the office to work on finishing the third revision of my nano novel and I fell asleep. I'm a human being who tries hard every day to do her best and I seem to fail miserably. All I can do is recommit to my daily schedule and try harder tomorrow. That's all I can do. All I can do is to keep trying and never give up.
What I need is interactive writing software that is plugged into Writers Market that not only encourages, inspires, gives writing prompts, keeps track of writing and reading, but tells me which when writing deadlines are coming and alerts to possible writing markets that might want my writing. This is what I need but I would also need the money to pay for it.
I kept putting it on my list to check the date. I shouldn't think about anything else in life other than writing. I need a large writing calendar from Office Max. I put it on the grocery list but it never found its way home. I need to close myself off to the world and not surface until I get my writing done for the day. I need to cocoon myself. Maybe I shouldn't do anything else but work on my writing assignments and read.
When I told my husband, he smiled. What kind of husband smiles at his wife's disappointment? We've been married for almost 37 years. I'm tired of his daily medical drama.
Damn it! I can't let this happen again. It has been happening too much to me through the years. I've been waiting for this opportunity. Maybe I wouldn't have made it but I wanted to try. I keep slipping through the cracks. I don't have money to go to all the wonderful writing workshops offered through Willamette Writers. Every year I want to go to the screenwriting workshop offered by the President of Willamette Writers, the amazing and talented Cynthia Whitcomb but every year it goes by without my having the money to attend. I'm tired of it.
The answer is that the only one I can control is myself. I have to recommit to my daily writing schedule and let nothing come in conflict with it. I can't worry about the kids in Alsea not having a school lunch program. I can't worry about loading manure on my garden. I can't worry about my health. I can't worry about anything until I get my writing done for the day. I love getting up early and going to bed early. I got up at 5 this morning. I am scheduled to help people at the library in Alsea today learn how to use the word processor and write their resumes. I shouldn't be volunteering until I have my own life going smoothly and until I have enough money for some breathing room. I need to reassess and reevaluate.
Yesterday my neighbor, Nancy was kind enough to have manure brought over into my garden. It was a wonderful gift and I'm grateful. I hid away in the office to work on finishing the third revision of my nano novel and I fell asleep. I'm a human being who tries hard every day to do her best and I seem to fail miserably. All I can do is recommit to my daily schedule and try harder tomorrow. That's all I can do. All I can do is to keep trying and never give up.
What I need is interactive writing software that is plugged into Writers Market that not only encourages, inspires, gives writing prompts, keeps track of writing and reading, but tells me which when writing deadlines are coming and alerts to possible writing markets that might want my writing. This is what I need but I would also need the money to pay for it.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Joel Osteen
I've been watching Joel Osteen on ABC Family Television for several months every week on Sunday night or when I get around to watching it during the week. I like him because he's positive and he smiles. He inspires, and uplifts. He should be on daily, in my opinion. He always says at the end that those who watch should join a good Bible based church but it is hard to duplicate the enthusiasm of Joel and his positive messages. He's rare. I'll continue watching him. I'd love to live in Houston and have the opportunity to go to his church every Sunday but I don't have the money to do that.
Here's his website: http://www.joelosteen.com/
I do think he needs to have someone work on his website. It doesn't fit him. It should be filled with streaming videos of his positive message clips that changes at least weekly. There should be a way to find all the archive of messages he has given in the past. It should have colors other than a somber brown.
Most ministers in church look as though it is the last place they want to be with their serious and ominous faces. I remember thinking just this when I went to the Episcopal Church in Corvallis and wondered why no one was smiling. I thought if it were me, I would be smiling with a huge grin because I was in God's House and doing his work. I was thinking that it's like the spiritual Disneyland for ministers to be in church. Most of the ministers I have seen through the years act as if it is the last place on earth they want to be. I've also been disappointed to see in the examples of many who seem to care more about the money coming in than making sure that the people who walk through the door are treated with kindness and friendship. I remember discussing this issue with my Aunt in Montana who has passed away. She said that many ministers are "mama made preachers." I had never heard that before and asked her about it. She said that not all ministers are there on Sunday because they chose to be but were pressured by their mothers to go into the ministry.
Maybe that is what happened to a minister who recently committed suicide. Maybe he was pressured into a life that he didn't want. If you make this kind of choice, obviously the religion didn't have the meaning for him that it should have had. It also says that the community in which he lived and all who knew him ignored his unhappiness and sadness. I guess it is rare these days for people to reach out in kindness to others. Sometimes it is the simple acts of kindness that help get others through the day. A smile here and there can heal hearts and make a day easier for others.
My husband, Leslie says that religion takes advantage of people's fear and enslaves the mind and spirit. He says that religion encourages people to follow in lock step and obey. Les is anti-religion after our experience with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and I don't blame him. In many ways I agree after seeing the poor example of many leaders in churches. Maybe he's right that religion is just a big lie to control people.
Here's his website: http://www.joelosteen.com/
I do think he needs to have someone work on his website. It doesn't fit him. It should be filled with streaming videos of his positive message clips that changes at least weekly. There should be a way to find all the archive of messages he has given in the past. It should have colors other than a somber brown.
Most ministers in church look as though it is the last place they want to be with their serious and ominous faces. I remember thinking just this when I went to the Episcopal Church in Corvallis and wondered why no one was smiling. I thought if it were me, I would be smiling with a huge grin because I was in God's House and doing his work. I was thinking that it's like the spiritual Disneyland for ministers to be in church. Most of the ministers I have seen through the years act as if it is the last place on earth they want to be. I've also been disappointed to see in the examples of many who seem to care more about the money coming in than making sure that the people who walk through the door are treated with kindness and friendship. I remember discussing this issue with my Aunt in Montana who has passed away. She said that many ministers are "mama made preachers." I had never heard that before and asked her about it. She said that not all ministers are there on Sunday because they chose to be but were pressured by their mothers to go into the ministry.
Maybe that is what happened to a minister who recently committed suicide. Maybe he was pressured into a life that he didn't want. If you make this kind of choice, obviously the religion didn't have the meaning for him that it should have had. It also says that the community in which he lived and all who knew him ignored his unhappiness and sadness. I guess it is rare these days for people to reach out in kindness to others. Sometimes it is the simple acts of kindness that help get others through the day. A smile here and there can heal hearts and make a day easier for others.
My husband, Leslie says that religion takes advantage of people's fear and enslaves the mind and spirit. He says that religion encourages people to follow in lock step and obey. Les is anti-religion after our experience with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and I don't blame him. In many ways I agree after seeing the poor example of many leaders in churches. Maybe he's right that religion is just a big lie to control people.
Michael Phelps
After becoming an Olympic Hero in Beijing, I was so disappointed to hear in the news that Michael Phelps decided he needed to experiment with drugs. Leaders, sports heroes, and all in the public eye need to hold themselves to a higher standard and to be the example for others. I'll bet his mother gave it to him for his antics. I bet that's how his ears grew straight out--from his mother pulling on them. I want to pull them myself. Shame on him.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Signe Danler
Signe Danler is a realtor for ReMax in Corvallis. She's amazing, brilliant, nice, and goes out of her way to help people. I met her in Master Gardening in Corvallis.
She does a lot of volunteer work for Master Gardening. Once when I drove up to the library in Corvallis, she was busy working on the flowers in the park across the street. She helped to organize the last Master Gardening event in Corvallis. Once a few years ago, I was invited to tour gardens with her and others near Eugene, which was fun. She gave me a forsythia which is ready to bloom in my yard soon. I respect her and have high regard for her.
I called her on the phone recently to ask her about our property. She went out of her way to help me, spend time, and give me information even though it didn't mean a sale for her. That's what she is like. She goes out of her way to help people. She's smart, responsible, and is one of the best people I know.
I highly recommend her. If you are thinking of selling your home or have questions about your property, call Signe Danler. As far as I am concerned she's the best in the business.
Signe Danler, ABR, Ecobroker
Buyer Specialist with Samantha Alley's Home Team at ReMax Integrity
541-918-5047
signe@hometeamoregon.com
She's a proud member of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition and her motto is "I listen. I care. I follow through...for YOU!"
It's true. She does care. Give her a call. She's terrific.
She does a lot of volunteer work for Master Gardening. Once when I drove up to the library in Corvallis, she was busy working on the flowers in the park across the street. She helped to organize the last Master Gardening event in Corvallis. Once a few years ago, I was invited to tour gardens with her and others near Eugene, which was fun. She gave me a forsythia which is ready to bloom in my yard soon. I respect her and have high regard for her.
I called her on the phone recently to ask her about our property. She went out of her way to help me, spend time, and give me information even though it didn't mean a sale for her. That's what she is like. She goes out of her way to help people. She's smart, responsible, and is one of the best people I know.
I highly recommend her. If you are thinking of selling your home or have questions about your property, call Signe Danler. As far as I am concerned she's the best in the business.
Signe Danler, ABR, Ecobroker
Buyer Specialist with Samantha Alley's Home Team at ReMax Integrity
541-918-5047
signe@hometeamoregon.com
She's a proud member of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition and her motto is "I listen. I care. I follow through...for YOU!"
It's true. She does care. Give her a call. She's terrific.
Sicko
I watched Sicko the other day on television. It's a film by Michael Moore. It's a courageous film that tells the shocking truth about our health care system in the United States, or lack of it. He even goes to other countries to show what health care in other countries is like. It makes me want to move to Canada or England or Sweden or France.
I don't have health insurance and haven't for years. When you don't have health insurance, you feel as if no one cares and that you don't matter. You ignore symptoms. I've been trying to eat healthy, exercise, and take vitamins. I sure eat a lot healthier than my husband and exercise much more but I'm the one with the weight problem. Sometimes I worry whether I am ready to have a stroke. Sometimes I worry about my heart. I have had high blood pressure for years. A couple of months ago my blood pressure was 169. Thanks to my son, Benjamin, I've been checked at OHSU. Now I'm worried about my eyes. I have high pressure in my right eye. They don't know what it is. It could lead to blindness. OHSU will help me for some things but they aren't going to help me with anything major.
In other countries like Canada, everything is free. They don't have to wait. Doctors care about their patients and don't worry about the business end of trying to squeeze dollars out of every patient and double bill insurance companies. When I watched Sicko, I was sick. We don't treat people well in this country. I saw on the news how a big hospital in LA just drops patients off in the street who can't pay their bill even though they need urgent care. Is this really how people should be treated?
President Obama is coming to the rescue and is the only hope the United States of America has of turning things around so there is free health care for everyone. Those who have should pay and those who need should receive without question or guilt.
I don't have health insurance and haven't for years. When you don't have health insurance, you feel as if no one cares and that you don't matter. You ignore symptoms. I've been trying to eat healthy, exercise, and take vitamins. I sure eat a lot healthier than my husband and exercise much more but I'm the one with the weight problem. Sometimes I worry whether I am ready to have a stroke. Sometimes I worry about my heart. I have had high blood pressure for years. A couple of months ago my blood pressure was 169. Thanks to my son, Benjamin, I've been checked at OHSU. Now I'm worried about my eyes. I have high pressure in my right eye. They don't know what it is. It could lead to blindness. OHSU will help me for some things but they aren't going to help me with anything major.
In other countries like Canada, everything is free. They don't have to wait. Doctors care about their patients and don't worry about the business end of trying to squeeze dollars out of every patient and double bill insurance companies. When I watched Sicko, I was sick. We don't treat people well in this country. I saw on the news how a big hospital in LA just drops patients off in the street who can't pay their bill even though they need urgent care. Is this really how people should be treated?
President Obama is coming to the rescue and is the only hope the United States of America has of turning things around so there is free health care for everyone. Those who have should pay and those who need should receive without question or guilt.
President Barack Obama
President Barack Obama is as perfect a President as they come. I have never felt about a President the way I feel about President Obama. He's doing everything he can to get this nation working again and back on track. The economic devastation that we just went through will not be easy to fix.
Republicans aren't doing anything to help from what I'm hearing on the news. They're concerned about being Republicans first and don't care about this country. I think the Republican party stands for greed and selfish interest. It makes me feel sad that Republicans don't care about this country and justify what has been done for the last eight years.
President Obama is the President for all Americans, no matter what color, economic background, or opinion. He cares about everyone and he works to help make this a better United States for all of us. I believe in him and I know he will make a difference.
Republicans aren't doing anything to help from what I'm hearing on the news. They're concerned about being Republicans first and don't care about this country. I think the Republican party stands for greed and selfish interest. It makes me feel sad that Republicans don't care about this country and justify what has been done for the last eight years.
President Obama is the President for all Americans, no matter what color, economic background, or opinion. He cares about everyone and he works to help make this a better United States for all of us. I believe in him and I know he will make a difference.
Kath and Kim
Kath and Kim is a new sitcom on NBC that I started watching last fall. I love it. It's cute, fun, and addictive.
Anna Rose
Anna Rose Haber is my newest granddaughter who was born on February 11th at 8:49 p.m in Seattle. She was 7 pounds and 2 ounces and 18 inches long. She has cute dimples like her beautiful mother, Amanda and long skinny legs and long skinny feet like her father, Benjamin, who is a runner. She sounds perfect to me. She's healthy and on her first night she slept 7 1/2 hours.
I'm excited to see her, hold her, and tell Anna that her Grandma loves her.
I'm excited to see her, hold her, and tell Anna that her Grandma loves her.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Oregon Legislature
Yesterday on the front page of the Corvallis Gazette Times is an article with a headline that reads "Salem seeks input on state cuts." I was thinking that I wanted to testify since I was planning on staying with my daughter, Gretchen and her family on Tuesday and Wednesday nights. I thought it would be fun since I have always wanted to testify before the Oregon Legislature and I have something to say.
I even wrote a speech in large type to take with me. A short one since I figure they only allow a couple of minutes of testimony per individual.
Here's what I wrote:
I am very happy to be here. [I would smile very big and wave.]
All of you in this room care about Oregon and the people who live in Oregon. I came here today to ask you to think about your financial choices in a different way and ask that you show with your choices that you value the people of Oregon.
The last few months has shown what greed can do to business, our economy, and our country. President Obama is working hard to lead this nation to give hope to all Americans and to heal our country.
The most important resource we have in Oregon is our people. If you make the choice to invest in people, to show you care about the people in Oregon with services that provide support, there is no limit to the greatness Oregon can achieve.
Taking away services, takes away hope. All Oregonians should have the opportunity to have a quality education. All Oregonians should have the opportunity to receive health care and services that help them. All Oregonians who are unable to protect themselves, like children and the elderly, must be taken care of and protected. Public safety is also an essential service.
I came here to ask that you get to the root cause of the problem by putting a cap on greed. I ask that you encourage new businesses in Oregon who agree to pay their fair share in tax dollars. I ask that you find ways and incentives to encourage old business in Oregon to start paying their fair share and shoulder the burden. I implore you to put a cap on salaries and freeze salaries until Oregon is in a healthier place. I implore you to follow and support President Obama by taxing the people of Oregon who earn more than $250,000 a year.
These are the places where you should be digging for money for the budget of Oregon, not by cutting services.
I implore you to show that you value the people of Oregon and set a precedent that leads the nation to a better tomorrow for all Americans.
This morning when I got up, I was thinking of a better idea to add but since I am not going to be able to go and speak to the legislature, I'll add it here. [My daughter is very sick. She called last night. She got a really bad cold after traveling to a conference in Texas. She needs to see a doctor. I'm worried about her. Gretchen is amazing, brilliant, and works hard to help people in her position as Executive Director of Liberty House so she needs to be healthy so she can continue to be a great mother and make a difference in Salem.]
I was thinking that all businesses who want to commit to a better Oregon and a better United States by paying their fair share of taxes instead of avoiding them could have a special sign that is posted that says Oregon Fair Share Business 2009. This sign is put up each year after the business has paid their fair share of taxes to help Oregon and help out President Obama. I think this is a great idea since right now businesses are into greed and avoiding taxes and don't want to be responsible for services or help out our nation. I know I would shop first at a Oregon Fair Share Business who is paying taxes to support the people of Oregon.
I learned after talking to Gretchen that her husband, Chris Bennett just got straight A's and is on the Dean's List for his online bachelor's degree that he's working on. I was very proud to hear that and even prouder when he said that he was planning on going to law school to become an attorney and wants to work in the DA's office in Salem. I'm very proud of him.
I even wrote a speech in large type to take with me. A short one since I figure they only allow a couple of minutes of testimony per individual.
Here's what I wrote:
I am very happy to be here. [I would smile very big and wave.]
All of you in this room care about Oregon and the people who live in Oregon. I came here today to ask you to think about your financial choices in a different way and ask that you show with your choices that you value the people of Oregon.
The last few months has shown what greed can do to business, our economy, and our country. President Obama is working hard to lead this nation to give hope to all Americans and to heal our country.
The most important resource we have in Oregon is our people. If you make the choice to invest in people, to show you care about the people in Oregon with services that provide support, there is no limit to the greatness Oregon can achieve.
Taking away services, takes away hope. All Oregonians should have the opportunity to have a quality education. All Oregonians should have the opportunity to receive health care and services that help them. All Oregonians who are unable to protect themselves, like children and the elderly, must be taken care of and protected. Public safety is also an essential service.
I came here to ask that you get to the root cause of the problem by putting a cap on greed. I ask that you encourage new businesses in Oregon who agree to pay their fair share in tax dollars. I ask that you find ways and incentives to encourage old business in Oregon to start paying their fair share and shoulder the burden. I implore you to put a cap on salaries and freeze salaries until Oregon is in a healthier place. I implore you to follow and support President Obama by taxing the people of Oregon who earn more than $250,000 a year.
These are the places where you should be digging for money for the budget of Oregon, not by cutting services.
I implore you to show that you value the people of Oregon and set a precedent that leads the nation to a better tomorrow for all Americans.
This morning when I got up, I was thinking of a better idea to add but since I am not going to be able to go and speak to the legislature, I'll add it here. [My daughter is very sick. She called last night. She got a really bad cold after traveling to a conference in Texas. She needs to see a doctor. I'm worried about her. Gretchen is amazing, brilliant, and works hard to help people in her position as Executive Director of Liberty House so she needs to be healthy so she can continue to be a great mother and make a difference in Salem.]
I was thinking that all businesses who want to commit to a better Oregon and a better United States by paying their fair share of taxes instead of avoiding them could have a special sign that is posted that says Oregon Fair Share Business 2009. This sign is put up each year after the business has paid their fair share of taxes to help Oregon and help out President Obama. I think this is a great idea since right now businesses are into greed and avoiding taxes and don't want to be responsible for services or help out our nation. I know I would shop first at a Oregon Fair Share Business who is paying taxes to support the people of Oregon.
I learned after talking to Gretchen that her husband, Chris Bennett just got straight A's and is on the Dean's List for his online bachelor's degree that he's working on. I was very proud to hear that and even prouder when he said that he was planning on going to law school to become an attorney and wants to work in the DA's office in Salem. I'm very proud of him.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
OHSU
On Monday I drove to Oregon Health Sciences University to see Dr. Lombardi at the Casey Eye Institute to check my cataracts that I was told I had years ago. I found out that I have high pressure in my right eye that they are concerned about that may require surgery. My left eye shows scarring of the retina. I remember when that happened. I was under severe stress and had high blood pressure at the time. I had a sea of floaters in my field of vision and was checked by a great doctor at Peace Health in Eugene who was very concerned about my vision. I learned that it is possible I have glaucoma. It seems like cataracts are the least of my problem at the moment. I could end up blind, which would cause a drastic change in my life so I couldn't see the beauty that surrounds me, or the birds, or the trees, or the words on the page of great books, or the words on my computer screen that I write.
Jeanine checked me before seeing Dr. Lombardi and she was the one who alerted Dr. Lombardi to the high pressure in my right eye. She is meticulous and careful and a nice person.
Karl took digital photos of my eyes afterwards and was great about explaining what was in the photos. He's a great guy who is professional and cares about doing an excellent job.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to be seen at OHSU where there is cutting edge research in all areas of medicine and the doctors care about helping their patients.
Jeanine checked me before seeing Dr. Lombardi and she was the one who alerted Dr. Lombardi to the high pressure in my right eye. She is meticulous and careful and a nice person.
Karl took digital photos of my eyes afterwards and was great about explaining what was in the photos. He's a great guy who is professional and cares about doing an excellent job.
I am grateful to have the opportunity to be seen at OHSU where there is cutting edge research in all areas of medicine and the doctors care about helping their patients.
Dr. Chad Hagen
Dr. Chad Hagen of Oregon Health Sciences University has been a real medical hero for my husband in helping him with his severe case of sleep apnea. My husband, Leslie has suffered his entire life without sleep. He was tested and they found that during a one hour period, he woke up an average of 80 times. It is believed that my husband has never slept. Les has always slept a lot less than normal--only 2 to 4 hours a night and even this time wasn't in restorative sleep.
Dr. Hagen has been instrumental in helping my husband with a machine that now helps him sleep an average of 6 hours on his best days. He sleeps 3 to 4 hours most nights but this sleep is the best quality of sleep his body has ever experienced. My husband had to get a higher pressure level machine so that the air pressure reaches 21 to 25 during sleep.
I am grateful to Dr. Hagen and OHSU for their help at a time when many doctors and hospitals care more about the bottom line than the people they are supposed to help.
Brenda Kaye, Dr. Hagen's assistant who calls my husband on the phone to ask about his sleep has been so nice to Les. She's always positive and upbeat.
Dr. Hagen has been instrumental in helping my husband with a machine that now helps him sleep an average of 6 hours on his best days. He sleeps 3 to 4 hours most nights but this sleep is the best quality of sleep his body has ever experienced. My husband had to get a higher pressure level machine so that the air pressure reaches 21 to 25 during sleep.
I am grateful to Dr. Hagen and OHSU for their help at a time when many doctors and hospitals care more about the bottom line than the people they are supposed to help.
Brenda Kaye, Dr. Hagen's assistant who calls my husband on the phone to ask about his sleep has been so nice to Les. She's always positive and upbeat.
Stimulus Package
I just made two phone calls to Washington D.C. to urge Senators Merkley and Wyden to please pass President Obama's stimulus package.
I am outraged that Republicans would be more concerned about being loyal to the Republican Party, to greed, and to all that caused the economic devastation in the last few months than to support what is best for the United States of America and for all people. It makes me feel like the Republicans only care about the rich, themselves, and they don't care about ethics and responsible behavior. I am livid. I would never vote for a Republican again. I think that the Republican Party should be held accountable for the havoc they have caused and individuals should be held responsible for the great rape and theft of our economic system.
I am outraged that Republicans would be more concerned about being loyal to the Republican Party, to greed, and to all that caused the economic devastation in the last few months than to support what is best for the United States of America and for all people. It makes me feel like the Republicans only care about the rich, themselves, and they don't care about ethics and responsible behavior. I am livid. I would never vote for a Republican again. I think that the Republican Party should be held accountable for the havoc they have caused and individuals should be held responsible for the great rape and theft of our economic system.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Wii Fit
I'm back in business with Wii Fit. My replacement cord was delivered yesterday by UPS. Hurray! Now my life is better. It's amazing how important in such a short period of time Wii Fit has become in my life.
I used Wii Fit after I got it set up for a straight 57 minutes. The cool thing was that after I took the beginning tests, my Wii Fit age yesterday was 30. Here I am almost 61 years old and I was 30. That sure boosts your confidence and makes you feel good. I feel very young inside. I created seven new records yesterday. I'm doing best in Yoga, which is odd since I've never taken a yoga class since you bend all up like a pretzel.
I always do several exercises in all four areas during the day--yoga, strength training, aerobics, and balance. My favorite thing to do is ski slalom. I'm half Swedish so I feel like I was born to ski even though I have never skiied in my life. It sure feels like it is close to what it must be like as I zoom through the flags and speed up in the areas where I know what's coming up. I love it.
I'm back in business. Life is good. After I get off the computer and check my e-mail, I will Wii Fit. I will have coffee with my husband, Leslie and play a game of Canasta to 5,000 points. Then I will work on revising my novel for several hours and then read in the evening. A perfect day.
I used Wii Fit after I got it set up for a straight 57 minutes. The cool thing was that after I took the beginning tests, my Wii Fit age yesterday was 30. Here I am almost 61 years old and I was 30. That sure boosts your confidence and makes you feel good. I feel very young inside. I created seven new records yesterday. I'm doing best in Yoga, which is odd since I've never taken a yoga class since you bend all up like a pretzel.
I always do several exercises in all four areas during the day--yoga, strength training, aerobics, and balance. My favorite thing to do is ski slalom. I'm half Swedish so I feel like I was born to ski even though I have never skiied in my life. It sure feels like it is close to what it must be like as I zoom through the flags and speed up in the areas where I know what's coming up. I love it.
I'm back in business. Life is good. After I get off the computer and check my e-mail, I will Wii Fit. I will have coffee with my husband, Leslie and play a game of Canasta to 5,000 points. Then I will work on revising my novel for several hours and then read in the evening. A perfect day.
Super Bowl
As I turned on my computer and my home page downloaded, I saw mention that an ad for the Super Bowl was rejected. I sent in an idea for a Super Bowl ad that I thought was great a few years ago. I should have run it by Donny Deutsch, the marketing genius first, if I had the opportunity. My idea for the Super Bowl is for both opposing teams to run onto the field from opposite ends. Just as they get onto the field, they tear off their uniforms to reveal Super Hero garb underneath. As they fly around and show their Super Hero powers, the commercial ends. Isn't that what men who sit and watch the Super Bowl think about their team? I think so.
I'm really not a football fan, unless it is the Chicago Bears and Mike Ditka. I've discouraged my sons from playing football even though Daniel was great at football. He went to football camp. His coach wanted him to play varsity as a sophomore because he was fearless and strong. I sat him down to read the article in Muscle and Fitness by Emmett Smith that said that being a professional football player was like getting hit by a freight train each time you go on the field. Daniel is brilliant so I wanted him to see that he was so much more than football. After his coach at North Salem High School wanted him to live and breathe football 24 hours a day with nothing else in his life, Daniel made the decision to quit on his own. Football causes brain injury. Just ask Mike Ditka and listen to the disabled voices of past football giants who played professional ball.
I'm really not a football fan, unless it is the Chicago Bears and Mike Ditka. I've discouraged my sons from playing football even though Daniel was great at football. He went to football camp. His coach wanted him to play varsity as a sophomore because he was fearless and strong. I sat him down to read the article in Muscle and Fitness by Emmett Smith that said that being a professional football player was like getting hit by a freight train each time you go on the field. Daniel is brilliant so I wanted him to see that he was so much more than football. After his coach at North Salem High School wanted him to live and breathe football 24 hours a day with nothing else in his life, Daniel made the decision to quit on his own. Football causes brain injury. Just ask Mike Ditka and listen to the disabled voices of past football giants who played professional ball.
Madison
Yesterday I went to the post office in Alsea and there was Madison. The last time I went to the post office, Madison was there too where I met her for the first time. She's five years old and ready to start kindergarten. She's ready to learn, ready to soar. She's not afraid. She's confident and wants to be helpful. For the last two times at the post office, Madison has helped me get my mail out of my box so I gave her a quarter each time. She smiles. She's nice. How come five year olds are some of the best people on earth? I told her after she said thank you that she should read lots of books. I sure hope that she is given the best teachers who believe in her and see her ability and potential. I can see her being a successful CEO or a teacher or a doctor or an attorney or a national inspirational public speaker or anything she wants to be.
After leaving the post office, I went on to get a Diet Pepsi at John Boy's Mercantile. John walked by and said hi. He's always courteous and nice. He has a great son named Matt who just took over running the store. John is from the great state of Montana where I'm from. I was born in Libby. My neighbor George Foster who lives on land above me says that John is the unofficial Mayor of Alsea. I agree that John deserves the title because he's nice to everyone and he's smart. George Foster is nice too although he doesn't even wave hello. Maybe George's best friend Brian Leavitt has told him beware. Brian is a Mormon lover. He has family in Salt Lake. He fights to keep the federal lunch program out of the school even though I was told that over 50% of the kids would qualify. He even goes to Salem to lobby before the legislature to tell them Alsea doesn't want it or need it. He's the minister of the Church of Christ in Lobster Valley. He's the Fire Chief. He was the School Board President. He's actually a nice guy. I thought his church was the best one in the area and the one I wanted to attend but he said I wasn't welcome to come to his barbeque at his house after church. He didn't want me in church so I stopped going.
Then there is football man who lives down the street and teaches at the high school. This family also goes to the Church of Christ so he's friends with Leavitt. This family didn't like me after I ordered star of David candles from his daughter. So what does this mean? Does this mean that he's a Jew hater? I don't understand how anyone can go to church and hate anyone. When I went to Sunday School at the Lutheran Church growing up, I learned that Jews are God's Chosen People. God loves Jews best. So why do people in churches dislike and even hate Jews? Is it because they are smarter? Because they are superior? Because God loves Jews best of all over everyone else?
People are funny around here. We donated stuff to the school and didn't even receive a thank you. We gave a scanner to football man at the school. His name is Cowdery.
The best time I ever had at the school was playing my clarinet with their band. It was fun to be part of the band. I felt like a little kid again. I felt like I was one of them. They were all better than me but it was fun. I had plans to write a juvenile novel about the band. Maybe I still will. I used to come in just for band and then leave. One girl refused to play her clarinet as long as I played in the band so I quit. I was told by another woman that the band is for the kids and that I shouldn't come. I think that the school is a better place if you have lots of community members participating in classes. If someone wants to learn geometry at an older age, they should be allowed to come to class and learn, even if they are 55 years old. I submitted a grant request for the band and the school received $500 from the Clemens Foundation and now they don't have a band at the school which is sad.
After going to John Boys, I went into the library and picked up an audio book by Robin Cook, one of my favorite authors. I love listening to audio books as I follow along with the book. I do this when I want to escape into a book. It gives you the total experience so you can get lost in it and close out the world around you. Mary the librarian was unusually chatty for some reason. Then out in the parking lot was Ann the snot busy putting together flowers for someone. She never thinks I am worth talking to. She's the expert about everything having to do with children. She's probably best friends with Molly Mormon, Carol De Young.
When I walked into the library I saw one of the teachers at the Alsea School, Anna Moseur, if I remember her name correctly. I know she is a good person and is nice but she didn't wave or speak. Whatever.
I have a horrible habit of staring at people. I'm relentless. I look people up and down as if to memorize each article of clothing and so I can document each distinct detail. I call it TV eyes. It's really writer eyes or novel eyes. Sometimes I don't bother to look at all. Most of the time I just stay home and never leave. Most of the time my husband goes to the post office and picks up my books or gets my Diet Pepsi.
So out of all the people I saw as I make a quick sweep through the town of Alsea, do I have a friend who calls once in awhile, who wants to come to dinner, who wants to share dreams, who wants to go for coffee? No. I have zero friends. Just superficial relationships. That's it. No one thinks I am worth talking to or spending time with. No one wants to know how I think or why. No one wants to tell me what they think or share troubles. No one cares. So that's why I blog. Even if no one reads it. My blog listens to me.
If I put up a sign that said that I wanted to start some kind of program, no one would sign up or call to inquiry. That's what it's like around here. I was told when I first moved in at a Bible study group for the Alsea Christian Fellowship that if you don't fall into line in Alsea, you will be driven out. I've been alone my entire life so it doesn't matter if people talk or want to be my friend. My mother prepared me for all this. Bless her little heart. My mother wanted a clean house above all else so I had to stay in my room all the time so I wouldn't mess up her house. I grew up in my room alone so I am trained to be alone, to make up my own fun, to not need anyone. So be it. I have books. I have my perfect cat, Thomas. I have the opportunity to create stories and write. I have a garden. I have Wii Fit. I have birds that visit outside my window. When the weather warms up, I'll have my garden. What more can I ask for? I have it all.
After leaving the post office, I went on to get a Diet Pepsi at John Boy's Mercantile. John walked by and said hi. He's always courteous and nice. He has a great son named Matt who just took over running the store. John is from the great state of Montana where I'm from. I was born in Libby. My neighbor George Foster who lives on land above me says that John is the unofficial Mayor of Alsea. I agree that John deserves the title because he's nice to everyone and he's smart. George Foster is nice too although he doesn't even wave hello. Maybe George's best friend Brian Leavitt has told him beware. Brian is a Mormon lover. He has family in Salt Lake. He fights to keep the federal lunch program out of the school even though I was told that over 50% of the kids would qualify. He even goes to Salem to lobby before the legislature to tell them Alsea doesn't want it or need it. He's the minister of the Church of Christ in Lobster Valley. He's the Fire Chief. He was the School Board President. He's actually a nice guy. I thought his church was the best one in the area and the one I wanted to attend but he said I wasn't welcome to come to his barbeque at his house after church. He didn't want me in church so I stopped going.
Then there is football man who lives down the street and teaches at the high school. This family also goes to the Church of Christ so he's friends with Leavitt. This family didn't like me after I ordered star of David candles from his daughter. So what does this mean? Does this mean that he's a Jew hater? I don't understand how anyone can go to church and hate anyone. When I went to Sunday School at the Lutheran Church growing up, I learned that Jews are God's Chosen People. God loves Jews best. So why do people in churches dislike and even hate Jews? Is it because they are smarter? Because they are superior? Because God loves Jews best of all over everyone else?
People are funny around here. We donated stuff to the school and didn't even receive a thank you. We gave a scanner to football man at the school. His name is Cowdery.
The best time I ever had at the school was playing my clarinet with their band. It was fun to be part of the band. I felt like a little kid again. I felt like I was one of them. They were all better than me but it was fun. I had plans to write a juvenile novel about the band. Maybe I still will. I used to come in just for band and then leave. One girl refused to play her clarinet as long as I played in the band so I quit. I was told by another woman that the band is for the kids and that I shouldn't come. I think that the school is a better place if you have lots of community members participating in classes. If someone wants to learn geometry at an older age, they should be allowed to come to class and learn, even if they are 55 years old. I submitted a grant request for the band and the school received $500 from the Clemens Foundation and now they don't have a band at the school which is sad.
After going to John Boys, I went into the library and picked up an audio book by Robin Cook, one of my favorite authors. I love listening to audio books as I follow along with the book. I do this when I want to escape into a book. It gives you the total experience so you can get lost in it and close out the world around you. Mary the librarian was unusually chatty for some reason. Then out in the parking lot was Ann the snot busy putting together flowers for someone. She never thinks I am worth talking to. She's the expert about everything having to do with children. She's probably best friends with Molly Mormon, Carol De Young.
When I walked into the library I saw one of the teachers at the Alsea School, Anna Moseur, if I remember her name correctly. I know she is a good person and is nice but she didn't wave or speak. Whatever.
I have a horrible habit of staring at people. I'm relentless. I look people up and down as if to memorize each article of clothing and so I can document each distinct detail. I call it TV eyes. It's really writer eyes or novel eyes. Sometimes I don't bother to look at all. Most of the time I just stay home and never leave. Most of the time my husband goes to the post office and picks up my books or gets my Diet Pepsi.
So out of all the people I saw as I make a quick sweep through the town of Alsea, do I have a friend who calls once in awhile, who wants to come to dinner, who wants to share dreams, who wants to go for coffee? No. I have zero friends. Just superficial relationships. That's it. No one thinks I am worth talking to or spending time with. No one wants to know how I think or why. No one wants to tell me what they think or share troubles. No one cares. So that's why I blog. Even if no one reads it. My blog listens to me.
If I put up a sign that said that I wanted to start some kind of program, no one would sign up or call to inquiry. That's what it's like around here. I was told when I first moved in at a Bible study group for the Alsea Christian Fellowship that if you don't fall into line in Alsea, you will be driven out. I've been alone my entire life so it doesn't matter if people talk or want to be my friend. My mother prepared me for all this. Bless her little heart. My mother wanted a clean house above all else so I had to stay in my room all the time so I wouldn't mess up her house. I grew up in my room alone so I am trained to be alone, to make up my own fun, to not need anyone. So be it. I have books. I have my perfect cat, Thomas. I have the opportunity to create stories and write. I have a garden. I have Wii Fit. I have birds that visit outside my window. When the weather warms up, I'll have my garden. What more can I ask for? I have it all.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Wii Fit
My Wii Fit doesn't work right now. The cord is having problems connecting to my television so I miss my Wii Fit. I didn't know it would be so important to me in such a short time. I am so impressed with this software. It is interactive. It updates. It keeps track of your progress. It inspires. It encourages. It gives you more games, the more time you spend exercising. What gets me and what amazes me is that the wee little voice that seems so disappointed in my weight, actually gets to me and halts my eating during the day. I've lost close to 9 pounds in a week. I haven't been able to exercise in the last three days so I desperately await the arrival of UPS on Wednesday to bring the new cord for my Wii Fit so I can start up again. Wii Fit means health. It means fitness. It means hope for so many people who are isolated, alone, and who don't exercise much. It works.
Eric Maisel
Eric Maisel has written over 20 books and is well respected in the writing community. I've seen articles by and about him in The Writer and Writers Digest Magazine over the years. I have one of his books in my writing craft bookcase.
Dr. Maisel is a psychotherapist and has a weekly e-mail that he sends out on creativity for writers and artists. www.ericmaisel.com I find it interesting, inspiring, and helpful.
His new book, The Atheist's Way is on sale now at www.amazon.com. Whether you are religious, questioning, or just want to learn how about different philosophies, you will find insight into the atheists way by reading his book.
People have a right to their own opinion and to express it. To stop dissent, debate, and a difference of opinion goes against everything this country stands for. Right now there is pressure to suppress the liberal media. It concerns me because only in a free society can debate flourish. I sincerely hope that President Obama will do something to safeguard freedom of the press and the right to free debate of issues and ideas.
Dr. Maisel is a psychotherapist and has a weekly e-mail that he sends out on creativity for writers and artists. www.ericmaisel.com I find it interesting, inspiring, and helpful.
His new book, The Atheist's Way is on sale now at www.amazon.com. Whether you are religious, questioning, or just want to learn how about different philosophies, you will find insight into the atheists way by reading his book.
People have a right to their own opinion and to express it. To stop dissent, debate, and a difference of opinion goes against everything this country stands for. Right now there is pressure to suppress the liberal media. It concerns me because only in a free society can debate flourish. I sincerely hope that President Obama will do something to safeguard freedom of the press and the right to free debate of issues and ideas.
Writing
I am busy with the revision on my novel I wrote during the month of November during National Novel Writing Month. www.nanowrimo.org
This is the writing project that I am deeply connected to right now. I'm having fun with it and have written for several hours today revising, thinking, changing, wondering, and figuring out answers to problems. I love the process of writing but writing is very lonely.
I was thinking today that I would like to work with a software gamer to work on a writing software program like Wii Fit that is interactive, that gives writing tips, that keeps track of your writing, that encourages, inspires, and claps for you. Wii Fit works for me and I know that if I had a writing program on my computer that was interactive just like Wii Fit, it would work for me.
This is the writing project that I am deeply connected to right now. I'm having fun with it and have written for several hours today revising, thinking, changing, wondering, and figuring out answers to problems. I love the process of writing but writing is very lonely.
I was thinking today that I would like to work with a software gamer to work on a writing software program like Wii Fit that is interactive, that gives writing tips, that keeps track of your writing, that encourages, inspires, and claps for you. Wii Fit works for me and I know that if I had a writing program on my computer that was interactive just like Wii Fit, it would work for me.
A Quote
"All it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing."
--Edmund Burke 1729-1797
British politician
--Edmund Burke 1729-1797
British politician
Dreams
I wonder what the future brings. Is hard work going to be rewarded or will all my efforts be stomped into the ground and not allowed fruition as in the past?
Should I just stay home and give up? Should I quietly live out my life out in the middle of no where reading the books that I want to read, write what may never be published, and enjoy my garden and the birds that visit?
Should I just stay home and give up? Should I quietly live out my life out in the middle of no where reading the books that I want to read, write what may never be published, and enjoy my garden and the birds that visit?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
OHSU
I drove to Portland this morning to the OHSU clinic at Gabriel Park to get my stitches out. I had a large mole removed requiring several stitches. Janice was the nurse who helped me. She's so nice. I really enjoyed talking to her even though I wasn't with her very long. She said that the area healed and she was able to remove the stitches. I think they need to clone her. I wish I had at least ten friends like her. Everyone is nice at OHSU.
Financial Fitness
I signed up for a free class on financial fitness with Willamette Neighborhood Housing Services in Corvallis before I take a course on starting your own business with Linn-Benton Micro Business in March learning how to create a business plan. I am excited to learn.
My husband, Leslie of over 36 years has always handled all the money so I am not financially fit. He does it all and loves to shop. These classes should help me and I look forward to learning and growing in this area. Yes, I listen to business network shows on MSNBC, I read business magazines like Money, Forbes, and Fortune, and I enjoy reading the Wall Street Journal but I still have a lot to learn. I have thought of getting a MBA with an online school to learn project management.
My husband, Leslie of over 36 years has always handled all the money so I am not financially fit. He does it all and loves to shop. These classes should help me and I look forward to learning and growing in this area. Yes, I listen to business network shows on MSNBC, I read business magazines like Money, Forbes, and Fortune, and I enjoy reading the Wall Street Journal but I still have a lot to learn. I have thought of getting a MBA with an online school to learn project management.
The Bucket List
I saw the Bucket List yesterday. I had it saved from the free HBO weekend. This Rob Reiner film is now one of my favorite films starring three of my favorite actors--Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, and Sean Hayes.
It makes me feel the need to create my own bucket list and to not waste time on anything that isn't important to me, of value, or worth learning about.
It makes me feel the need to create my own bucket list and to not waste time on anything that isn't important to me, of value, or worth learning about.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
The Inauguration
I watched the inauguration of President Obama this morning. President Obama is the hope of all people of the United States and the world for a better America. It isn't going to be easy. The economic state of our nation is at its worst and there are more challenging circumstances in the world than ever before. I heard one news commentator say that "today pigs can fly." Yes, indeed. President Obama is a President of the people, all people.
I believe in President Barack Obama. He has my complete confidence. There is hope for America now. We will heal and come together to work hard for a better country. Everyone must be given a chance for a bright future. All citizens must be valued.
Since many of the rich in power made the choice to steal, hard decisions will have to be made. Business must pay their fair share. The rich need to pay taxes. The elderly and children must be protected. Education must be a right for all, not just the few with money. There must be health care for everyone and not just those with insurance. People must be held accountable.
I believe that many opportunities will be possible as our nation heals and after President Obama has had the chance to make needed changes.
I believe in President Barack Obama. He has my complete confidence. There is hope for America now. We will heal and come together to work hard for a better country. Everyone must be given a chance for a bright future. All citizens must be valued.
Since many of the rich in power made the choice to steal, hard decisions will have to be made. Business must pay their fair share. The rich need to pay taxes. The elderly and children must be protected. Education must be a right for all, not just the few with money. There must be health care for everyone and not just those with insurance. People must be held accountable.
I believe that many opportunities will be possible as our nation heals and after President Obama has had the chance to make needed changes.
Flight 1549
U.S. Airways flight 1549 went down in the Hudson River in New York last Thursday. Two geese took out an airplane and caused it to go down. Statistics given in the Corvallis Gazette Times say that from 1990 to 2007, there have been nearly 80,000 reported incidents of bird strikes on non-military aircraft.
When I first heard about bird strikes a couple of years ago and how birds can take out an engine, I could not understand why something hasn't been done to prevent this from happening since the results can be so deadly. There should be a cover over the engine so that a bird cannot enter. Just because something hasn't been done in the past, doesn't mean that someone can't come up with a great solution to the problem made out of light weight material to protect the engines of aircraft.
When I first heard about bird strikes a couple of years ago and how birds can take out an engine, I could not understand why something hasn't been done to prevent this from happening since the results can be so deadly. There should be a cover over the engine so that a bird cannot enter. Just because something hasn't been done in the past, doesn't mean that someone can't come up with a great solution to the problem made out of light weight material to protect the engines of aircraft.
National Day of Service
Yesterday was National Day of Service and I helped out for a couple of hours to help get donations of food and money for the Food Bank in Alsea located at the Alsea Christian Fellowship Church. I had a few questions about the program so I visited the Food Bank personally before I volunteered and received the tour from Pastor Bill Smith. Most of the food comes from the government such as beans, rice, canned vegetables and fruit, peanut butter, flour, etc. U.S.D.A. is stamped on the boxes. I learned that when a family comes in need to the Food Bank, they will receive a box of food that will last them about three days. Usually these families also use food stamps to help them the rest of the month.
People were generous as I was sitting at a table in the front at John Boy's Mercantile with money and cans of food.
The most fun was talking to a student and his mother who were also volunteering with this effort. The high school student, Connor is obviously bright and creative. It was fun to learn from him about using water colors. It made me sad though when I thought of how much I have wanted my life to be filled with students so that I could help them reach for their dreams.
People were generous as I was sitting at a table in the front at John Boy's Mercantile with money and cans of food.
The most fun was talking to a student and his mother who were also volunteering with this effort. The high school student, Connor is obviously bright and creative. It was fun to learn from him about using water colors. It made me sad though when I thought of how much I have wanted my life to be filled with students so that I could help them reach for their dreams.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Brothers and Sisters
One of my favorite television shows is Brothers and Sisters on ABC starring Sally Field and Calista Flockhart who are my favorites on the show. In the last episode, these two characters who are mother and daughter are talking. The writing and dialogue is so outstanding and powerful.
Sally Field says, "You can't sit on your hands so other people feel better about themselves. God, Kitty, I did that my whole life. When I think of all the great ideas I gave your father and just pretended they weren't mine. He let me do it, of course. Sometimes I think, what if I hadn't done that. What if I had taken credit where credit was due? I was a more powerful woman than I let myself be.... I don't want you to do that. I don't want you to make that mistake. You won't do anyone any good by pretending to be less than what you are."
Isn't that great! Isn't that just powerful writing! I hope someday that I write the words that someone like Sally Fields says on screen.
If you want great drama and great writing, watch Brothers and Sisters on ABC on Sunday nights at 10 p.m. It's on tonight. I'll be watching. I hope you will be too.
Sally Field says, "You can't sit on your hands so other people feel better about themselves. God, Kitty, I did that my whole life. When I think of all the great ideas I gave your father and just pretended they weren't mine. He let me do it, of course. Sometimes I think, what if I hadn't done that. What if I had taken credit where credit was due? I was a more powerful woman than I let myself be.... I don't want you to do that. I don't want you to make that mistake. You won't do anyone any good by pretending to be less than what you are."
Isn't that great! Isn't that just powerful writing! I hope someday that I write the words that someone like Sally Fields says on screen.
If you want great drama and great writing, watch Brothers and Sisters on ABC on Sunday nights at 10 p.m. It's on tonight. I'll be watching. I hope you will be too.
Drugs
I've always been anti-drug. I've never used any illegal drugs and I've never even tried marijuana, even though I went through college in the 60's. I have also never smoked because my Dad died of lung cancer from smoking cigarettes.
I have, however, trusted in doctors who gave me prescription medication. Never again. It's hard for me to trust in doctors now. I've always believed in doctors because they are some of the most educated people and are supposedly trying to help people. Some misuse this trust. I know there are good doctors who are ethical and who work hard to help people. However, I no longer blindly trust anyone anymore.
My husband got sick in 1978 with Valley Fever. At the time he was working for Avco Financial Services in San Luis Obispo, California as a manager. He had been transferred into several stores to turn them around. He was good at this. The San Luis Obispo store was the last store. He got sick. Another complication was that his regional supervisor wasn't ready to get the results the old fashioned way. He wanted Les to cheat. Les refused. He knew he would be able to get the results a little longer honestly so the pressure to make things more difficult was applied. He was working during the summer without air conditioning when he was sick without a lot of help. The regional supervisor refused to order air conditioning and refused to let him hire the help he needed. Les told a regional VP what was going on. The sad thing is that this regional VP after telling what happened at headquarters was let go shortly thereafter. I guess this was the beginning of what was to come in business all these years later that cheating on the bottom line would be accepted. My husband refused to play along. He got very sick but took them to court and got an award of $100,000. Then the doctor that he was seeing put him on heavy medication that would continue over the years with other doctors when we moved back to Salem, Oregon.
Was it because he spoke out and dared to tell the truth?
Then I went to work in Salem years later so we could move into a better neighborhood and have a nicer house. I did this for my children and for their future. I wanted them to have the best because they were the best and are the best. I took the first job with the state of Oregon that I was offered. I was eager to do well. I was ambitious and smart and willing to work hard. I got hired by DMV. I first worked in accident records. Then I worked on the phones to answer questions. In two years, I earned three promotions. My last job was at the DMV in Portland on 6th Avenue downtown. It was hard because I was driving back and forth every day on I-5 and living in South Salem. The problem came when I discovered that the people I worked with were holding back money from car dealers and keeping it in the safe. I told one of the car dealers that he had money coming back to him. He was surprised. I should have told someone at DMV at a much higher level what I had discovered. After this, the people I worked with made my life miserable. I should have quit. It's hard for me to quit at things. I keep trying harder. I ended up with bleeding ulcers and almost died. The union didn't help me because one of the people I was working with was a union boss so they believed him. So I went to the doctor that my husband was seeing at the time at the suggestion of my husband. Since I had bleeding ulcers, the bad kind not caused by bacteria, that was caused by stress, I went to see my husband's doctor, Dr. Bennett Wight. I trusted that he was doing what was best for me. I trusted that he knew what he was doing so I did what he said. I took the medication that he prescribed. I kept questioning but I still trusted. Now looking back, I believe that he should have said to me that the best thing was to get another job and do something else. He didn't. He kept giving me medication that I didn't feel I needed for ten years. I've learned that when a doctor says something that people believe it. I also learned that if you take one medication and it has side effects that doctors often prescribe more medication for the side effects giving a whole new set of symptoms and causing new problems. I don't believe in taking any prescription medication now at all, unless absolutely necessary.
My belief in this doctor came to a crashing halt when my son, Aaron died. Dr. Wight didn't even talk to me about my son's death or try to help me. Around this time I ordered a book from the Book of the Month Club called Prozac Backlash, which told of the horrors of prescription medication. I made a decision to go off all the medication on my own, slowly. I reduced the dosage slowly over time. I felt very alone but I knew I needed to do this for my family. I felt betrayed by this doctor. Since I was on workman's comp at the time under this doctor's care, I went to other doctors and attorneys in Portland to have them look at my case. They said it was a clear case of malpractice. My husband went to court and we won a large settlement. Dr. Tran came next. He talked to me about nutrition and exercise. He was nice and tried to help but refused to have anything to do with me and disavowed any dealings with me after I showed him my article that I published in Birds and Blooms. I thought this was odd. Did this mean that he misinterpreted me? I haven't had a doctor in many, many years. I don't take any prescription medication, nor do I intend to do so. The last thing that Dr. Tran said to me was to start over, to walk away from my life and not look back. How do you do that when you don't have savings, friends, and a job so you can be self supporting?
I tried to leave my husband after my son died and after I stopped taking most of the medication. My husband lied about me to stop me from leaving. He said I was suicidal and had me put on a psychiatric wing at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis for a week. I wasn't suicidal. I was just trying to leave my husband. They couldn't believe that anyone would be taking the combination of medication that I was taking at the time by Dr. Wight. All the medication had been prescribed and ordered by Dr. Wight. It makes me wonder what other doctors are giving multiple medications that should be questioned.
I was talking to my son this weekend. I know that I wasn't completely there for him when he needed me at different times. I didn't always listen to him as he listens to me. I'm sorry. When you take any kind of medication, it prevents you from being fully present to help anyone around you. It dulls your senses. I am sorry. I am sorry I trusted. I don't blame any of my children from being angry with me. I blame myself for listening to doctors and for taking any medication. I should have just got a different job. Healthy choices never medicate or dull the senses. I have always tried to do the right thing but it didn't always turn out to be the right thing.
I was told by a doctor this last week at OHSU that I am "so good natured." I've always been easy-going. It's so nice to see good doctors who are supportive and encouraging and who care about you as a patient. Dr. Present was removing a mole at the time--a large mole that required several stitches.
I've tried hard over the years to heal myself by writing, eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and by exercise. Life is not always easy. You make the best choices you can in life and do the best you can. I am grateful when I come across nice people, good people who are ethical, inspiring, and have character. I hope I have a future with friends, with the opportunity to learn and grow continually. I hope I'm okay and that I don't have cancer again. I hope that I can lose the weight. I hope that I can publish books and that I have a chance to earn money to make possibilities happen. I hope that someday my kids will like me again.
I have, however, trusted in doctors who gave me prescription medication. Never again. It's hard for me to trust in doctors now. I've always believed in doctors because they are some of the most educated people and are supposedly trying to help people. Some misuse this trust. I know there are good doctors who are ethical and who work hard to help people. However, I no longer blindly trust anyone anymore.
My husband got sick in 1978 with Valley Fever. At the time he was working for Avco Financial Services in San Luis Obispo, California as a manager. He had been transferred into several stores to turn them around. He was good at this. The San Luis Obispo store was the last store. He got sick. Another complication was that his regional supervisor wasn't ready to get the results the old fashioned way. He wanted Les to cheat. Les refused. He knew he would be able to get the results a little longer honestly so the pressure to make things more difficult was applied. He was working during the summer without air conditioning when he was sick without a lot of help. The regional supervisor refused to order air conditioning and refused to let him hire the help he needed. Les told a regional VP what was going on. The sad thing is that this regional VP after telling what happened at headquarters was let go shortly thereafter. I guess this was the beginning of what was to come in business all these years later that cheating on the bottom line would be accepted. My husband refused to play along. He got very sick but took them to court and got an award of $100,000. Then the doctor that he was seeing put him on heavy medication that would continue over the years with other doctors when we moved back to Salem, Oregon.
Was it because he spoke out and dared to tell the truth?
Then I went to work in Salem years later so we could move into a better neighborhood and have a nicer house. I did this for my children and for their future. I wanted them to have the best because they were the best and are the best. I took the first job with the state of Oregon that I was offered. I was eager to do well. I was ambitious and smart and willing to work hard. I got hired by DMV. I first worked in accident records. Then I worked on the phones to answer questions. In two years, I earned three promotions. My last job was at the DMV in Portland on 6th Avenue downtown. It was hard because I was driving back and forth every day on I-5 and living in South Salem. The problem came when I discovered that the people I worked with were holding back money from car dealers and keeping it in the safe. I told one of the car dealers that he had money coming back to him. He was surprised. I should have told someone at DMV at a much higher level what I had discovered. After this, the people I worked with made my life miserable. I should have quit. It's hard for me to quit at things. I keep trying harder. I ended up with bleeding ulcers and almost died. The union didn't help me because one of the people I was working with was a union boss so they believed him. So I went to the doctor that my husband was seeing at the time at the suggestion of my husband. Since I had bleeding ulcers, the bad kind not caused by bacteria, that was caused by stress, I went to see my husband's doctor, Dr. Bennett Wight. I trusted that he was doing what was best for me. I trusted that he knew what he was doing so I did what he said. I took the medication that he prescribed. I kept questioning but I still trusted. Now looking back, I believe that he should have said to me that the best thing was to get another job and do something else. He didn't. He kept giving me medication that I didn't feel I needed for ten years. I've learned that when a doctor says something that people believe it. I also learned that if you take one medication and it has side effects that doctors often prescribe more medication for the side effects giving a whole new set of symptoms and causing new problems. I don't believe in taking any prescription medication now at all, unless absolutely necessary.
My belief in this doctor came to a crashing halt when my son, Aaron died. Dr. Wight didn't even talk to me about my son's death or try to help me. Around this time I ordered a book from the Book of the Month Club called Prozac Backlash, which told of the horrors of prescription medication. I made a decision to go off all the medication on my own, slowly. I reduced the dosage slowly over time. I felt very alone but I knew I needed to do this for my family. I felt betrayed by this doctor. Since I was on workman's comp at the time under this doctor's care, I went to other doctors and attorneys in Portland to have them look at my case. They said it was a clear case of malpractice. My husband went to court and we won a large settlement. Dr. Tran came next. He talked to me about nutrition and exercise. He was nice and tried to help but refused to have anything to do with me and disavowed any dealings with me after I showed him my article that I published in Birds and Blooms. I thought this was odd. Did this mean that he misinterpreted me? I haven't had a doctor in many, many years. I don't take any prescription medication, nor do I intend to do so. The last thing that Dr. Tran said to me was to start over, to walk away from my life and not look back. How do you do that when you don't have savings, friends, and a job so you can be self supporting?
I tried to leave my husband after my son died and after I stopped taking most of the medication. My husband lied about me to stop me from leaving. He said I was suicidal and had me put on a psychiatric wing at Good Samaritan Hospital in Corvallis for a week. I wasn't suicidal. I was just trying to leave my husband. They couldn't believe that anyone would be taking the combination of medication that I was taking at the time by Dr. Wight. All the medication had been prescribed and ordered by Dr. Wight. It makes me wonder what other doctors are giving multiple medications that should be questioned.
I was talking to my son this weekend. I know that I wasn't completely there for him when he needed me at different times. I didn't always listen to him as he listens to me. I'm sorry. When you take any kind of medication, it prevents you from being fully present to help anyone around you. It dulls your senses. I am sorry. I am sorry I trusted. I don't blame any of my children from being angry with me. I blame myself for listening to doctors and for taking any medication. I should have just got a different job. Healthy choices never medicate or dull the senses. I have always tried to do the right thing but it didn't always turn out to be the right thing.
I was told by a doctor this last week at OHSU that I am "so good natured." I've always been easy-going. It's so nice to see good doctors who are supportive and encouraging and who care about you as a patient. Dr. Present was removing a mole at the time--a large mole that required several stitches.
I've tried hard over the years to heal myself by writing, eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and by exercise. Life is not always easy. You make the best choices you can in life and do the best you can. I am grateful when I come across nice people, good people who are ethical, inspiring, and have character. I hope I have a future with friends, with the opportunity to learn and grow continually. I hope I'm okay and that I don't have cancer again. I hope that I can lose the weight. I hope that I can publish books and that I have a chance to earn money to make possibilities happen. I hope that someday my kids will like me again.
Wii Fit
I believe that Wii Fit is the most important video game system ever created because it is interactive and can keep you fit. Yesterday I used mine that I received as a Christmas gift for the second day in a row. The first day I logged in one minute. Yesterday I used it for one hour and 15 minutes. I'm hooked on it. I love it.
My favorite is beginning step so far. I made four new records yesterday on step. I know it is just the beginning and I know I am still at the easy stuff but it made me feel good about myself. It encourages and inspires. I am out there on stage with my family smiling at me stepping on the board right next to me. It makes me feel good. It was really fun and makes me want to do more and more. I miss going to the gym but this is the next best thing when you are at home and if the weather is nasty in the winter.
This game system can help so many people to get off the couch and to move again for their own health and well being.
My goal is to exercise an hour a day in all four catagories--yoga, aerobics, strength training, and balance. I did best in yoga, which is shocking. I earned three stars in two exercises.
The big surprise and shock of Wii Fit is that at almost 61 years old and a disgusting 291 pounds, I am a Wii Fit age of 41. My husband who is 58 years old and almost 59 is a Wii Fit age of 75.
I've been so worried about my health. I worried whether I would have a stroke or a heart attack. I am too overweight. I don't belong to a gym right now because I can't afford it.
This gift is the greatest gift. I will do my best to use it every day, eat healthy, and drink lots of water. Thank you so much Daniel, Jodee, Joe, Christina, Alex, and Chance. I love it and I will use it in health. Thank you so much. Daniel and Jodee brought this great gift, along with others, to me on their visit to the Northwest to see family. They set it up and showed us how to use it. This means fun every single day.
My favorite is beginning step so far. I made four new records yesterday on step. I know it is just the beginning and I know I am still at the easy stuff but it made me feel good about myself. It encourages and inspires. I am out there on stage with my family smiling at me stepping on the board right next to me. It makes me feel good. It was really fun and makes me want to do more and more. I miss going to the gym but this is the next best thing when you are at home and if the weather is nasty in the winter.
This game system can help so many people to get off the couch and to move again for their own health and well being.
My goal is to exercise an hour a day in all four catagories--yoga, aerobics, strength training, and balance. I did best in yoga, which is shocking. I earned three stars in two exercises.
The big surprise and shock of Wii Fit is that at almost 61 years old and a disgusting 291 pounds, I am a Wii Fit age of 41. My husband who is 58 years old and almost 59 is a Wii Fit age of 75.
I've been so worried about my health. I worried whether I would have a stroke or a heart attack. I am too overweight. I don't belong to a gym right now because I can't afford it.
This gift is the greatest gift. I will do my best to use it every day, eat healthy, and drink lots of water. Thank you so much Daniel, Jodee, Joe, Christina, Alex, and Chance. I love it and I will use it in health. Thank you so much. Daniel and Jodee brought this great gift, along with others, to me on their visit to the Northwest to see family. They set it up and showed us how to use it. This means fun every single day.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
President Barack Obama
The United States has been desvastated and financially gutted. Shame on all who participated in the ruin of the American dream.
It can't go back to the way it was because the resources don't exist. We must face the fact that the dream is over as we knew it.
In order for our nation to heal, we must value ALL citizens, not just the rich. Greed MUST have a cap. The environment MUST be protected. Health care for ALL is essential. Children and the elderly MUST be protected. The rich and businesses MUST pay their fair share. All who want an education MUST have this opportunity. The legal system MUST work again. Social Security MUST be protected, which is the only proven retirement system.
So many people have been drenched in positive thinking which has allowed the crooks to run away with the money. Micromanaging has been a bad word but it might have prevented this unpresidented havoc. People MUST be held accountable.
We MUST face the facts before we can start over or the same mistakes will be repeated. We can never go back. We must face the future with a new vision and the old rules don't apply.
President Barack Obama, in my opinion, will be remembered as the GREATEST President in the history of the United States. He is the calm during the storm and the answers amidst the turmoil. At no time in the history of the United States has a President of the United States faced greater challenges. President Barack Obama is ready and faces these challenges squarely with answers and insight.
I have never in my life felt such confidence and trust in any President or public figure. I do have complete trust and confidence in President Barack Obama. He is my President. He is the savior of the United States of America. God bless and protect President Barack Obama.
It can't go back to the way it was because the resources don't exist. We must face the fact that the dream is over as we knew it.
In order for our nation to heal, we must value ALL citizens, not just the rich. Greed MUST have a cap. The environment MUST be protected. Health care for ALL is essential. Children and the elderly MUST be protected. The rich and businesses MUST pay their fair share. All who want an education MUST have this opportunity. The legal system MUST work again. Social Security MUST be protected, which is the only proven retirement system.
So many people have been drenched in positive thinking which has allowed the crooks to run away with the money. Micromanaging has been a bad word but it might have prevented this unpresidented havoc. People MUST be held accountable.
We MUST face the facts before we can start over or the same mistakes will be repeated. We can never go back. We must face the future with a new vision and the old rules don't apply.
President Barack Obama, in my opinion, will be remembered as the GREATEST President in the history of the United States. He is the calm during the storm and the answers amidst the turmoil. At no time in the history of the United States has a President of the United States faced greater challenges. President Barack Obama is ready and faces these challenges squarely with answers and insight.
I have never in my life felt such confidence and trust in any President or public figure. I do have complete trust and confidence in President Barack Obama. He is my President. He is the savior of the United States of America. God bless and protect President Barack Obama.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
2009
Here are my 2009 resolutions:
Finish juvenile novel.
Finish copywriting course.
Write 8 hours daily.
Read 4 hours daily.
Read two plus books a week.
Revise NaNoWriMo Novel
Finish cruise mystery
Participate in Script Frenzy in April.
Exercise two hours daily.
Learn at least one new word a day.
Read one hour a day about health and fitness.
Shop a novel every six months.
Donate extra garden vegetables to food bank.
Clean house one hour daily.
Finish quilts for my grandchildren.
Eat small portions.
Garden two hours daily.
I could add to the list. I always do. So far I am not doing everything each day but I will get up each day and keep trying.
In January of 2009, I still have zero friends. I'm deliberately lowering all expectations and concentrating on what I can do and what I have the power to do within my immediate environment.
I found a quote that I printed out and put on the wall near me. I read it in a book. "So you have a void in your life. Welcome to the club. Fill it with work, with accomplishments. Just think about the woman you could be." I wish I had the money to go to writing workshops and conferences but I don't so I must be grateful for the opportunity to write. Maybe something, someday will happen, IF I just keep trying.
So that's what I will concentrate on in 2009...my writing, reading, exercising, gardening, and making things.
I would like to be part of things, to contribute, to be of use, but how is it possible when you lack a support structure and close friends?
I will write everyday. I will finish projects. I will read voraciously. I will learn new things. I will work hard to improve myself each day and to start each new day with gratitude for what I do have.
Finish juvenile novel.
Finish copywriting course.
Write 8 hours daily.
Read 4 hours daily.
Read two plus books a week.
Revise NaNoWriMo Novel
Finish cruise mystery
Participate in Script Frenzy in April.
Exercise two hours daily.
Learn at least one new word a day.
Read one hour a day about health and fitness.
Shop a novel every six months.
Donate extra garden vegetables to food bank.
Clean house one hour daily.
Finish quilts for my grandchildren.
Eat small portions.
Garden two hours daily.
I could add to the list. I always do. So far I am not doing everything each day but I will get up each day and keep trying.
In January of 2009, I still have zero friends. I'm deliberately lowering all expectations and concentrating on what I can do and what I have the power to do within my immediate environment.
I found a quote that I printed out and put on the wall near me. I read it in a book. "So you have a void in your life. Welcome to the club. Fill it with work, with accomplishments. Just think about the woman you could be." I wish I had the money to go to writing workshops and conferences but I don't so I must be grateful for the opportunity to write. Maybe something, someday will happen, IF I just keep trying.
So that's what I will concentrate on in 2009...my writing, reading, exercising, gardening, and making things.
I would like to be part of things, to contribute, to be of use, but how is it possible when you lack a support structure and close friends?
I will write everyday. I will finish projects. I will read voraciously. I will learn new things. I will work hard to improve myself each day and to start each new day with gratitude for what I do have.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Israel
I support Israel and it's policies. Israel is surrounded on all sides by Arab nations that want to not only eliminate Israel but exterminate all Jews off the face of the earth. Everyone has a right to exist and in my opinion, you can't call any religion a religion that wants to cause harm to others. If our country experienced what Israel experiences, I doubt there would be any criticism. No other country would be as nice or as tolerant as Israel has been. No country should have to tolerate the hate, the daily bombs and rockets, the threats of extermination, the lack of safety. Israel has a right to defend itself. Israel has a right to exist. The territory of Israel is the Jewish homeland. The ancient Jewish temples, buildings, and history of the area confirm the right for Israel to exist. We have gone halfway across the world to bomb countries that haven't even been proved a threat so how can anyone in this country be critical of Israel when they face daily harm?
Monday, December 29, 2008
The Big Bang Theory
I love watching the CBS television show, The Big Bang Theory and my favorite character on the show is Sheldon.
Truvia
Truvia is a natural sweetner made from the stevia plant. Truvia is now sold in grocery stores. I've been waiting for this day. http://www.truvia.com/
Next I am waiting for Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi to use truvia instead of aspartame because this will help all overweight and diabetic people.
Next I am waiting for Diet Coke and Diet Pepsi to use truvia instead of aspartame because this will help all overweight and diabetic people.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Bernie Madoff
I have been following in the news about the ponzi scheme of Bernie Madoff that amounted to $50 billion dollars. Today in the Corvallis Gazette Times is an AP article with the headline, "Some Jews fear Madoff case strokes anti-Semitism."
I watched a MSNBC special on the scandal of Bernard Madoff. It is my understanding that Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities has been in business for over 30 years with a good reputation and respect. It is only now that problems came to light at the time of the stock market crash, and bailouts for failed corporations.
I have a hard time coming to the popular conclusion that others in the news do. Putting everything in perspective, I do not see it in the same light. He isn't any different than any of the others in the news right now. I don't condone what he did because it is never okay to steal anything from family, friends or strangers. I don't like it that people are so ready to use a Jew as a scapegoat. It sounds like the actions were deliberate so it was inexcuseable but I see others in the news who have also escaped with wealth and no one is saying a word. All should be held accountable.
Does $50 billion compare to the $10 trillion dollar raid on the U.S. Treasury? None of the corporations or banks are being held accountable? They aren't even expected to pay it back? No one sees them as criminals. Why?
Does anyone point to President Bush's religion after he drove the U.S. economy into the ground? No one is seeing President Bush as a criminal after what he has done. He isn't saying he is sorry or accepting responsibility for what he has done.
Bernard Madoff admitted to his sons guilt of what happened or what was about to happen to the business. None of the heads of large corporations who have stolen money and take millions of dollars in bonus money have admitted any guilt after they have driven a business into the ground.
I remember hearing on one business network that the reason the first recent bailout was necessary was because the world economy is so delicately balanced that everything would collapse without the bailout. In other words, every financial institution in the world is dependent upon one another in order to stay afloat. One tanks and it has a dominoe effect. I think this is what happened to Bernard Madoff and others.
I wonder about Mutual Funds and if they are a ponzi scheme. The fund managers are the ones who benefit.
What about insurance companies who take your money and then don't want to pay out? What about banks who made loans to people who they knew couldn't pay them back?
Everyone should be treated the same. I watched one science show that said that the process of finding someone guilty is subjective. For every guilty person, there is an innocent person in jail. I was shocked at this. I guess if you want to see someone as guilty, they look much more guilty even if you have to distort the facts. This is unfortunate. I thought that facts were the facts.
Don't get me wrong....I am not condoning what Bernie Madoff did. He was wrong and he should be held accountable but so should others. Martha Stewart went to prison and yet the CEO of Enron wasn't held accountable. Why?
I guess what I want to say is that I see Jews as highly ethical human beings. I will always stand up for Judaism. If I were to choose one religion, I would have to say that I think that Judaism contains the basic truth.
At this point in my spiritual development, I am not sure of anything. I grew up in the Lutheran Church going to church every Sunday with my parents. At this time, the only thing that I can truly say with all honesty is that I believe in science.
I watched a MSNBC special on the scandal of Bernard Madoff. It is my understanding that Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities has been in business for over 30 years with a good reputation and respect. It is only now that problems came to light at the time of the stock market crash, and bailouts for failed corporations.
I have a hard time coming to the popular conclusion that others in the news do. Putting everything in perspective, I do not see it in the same light. He isn't any different than any of the others in the news right now. I don't condone what he did because it is never okay to steal anything from family, friends or strangers. I don't like it that people are so ready to use a Jew as a scapegoat. It sounds like the actions were deliberate so it was inexcuseable but I see others in the news who have also escaped with wealth and no one is saying a word. All should be held accountable.
Does $50 billion compare to the $10 trillion dollar raid on the U.S. Treasury? None of the corporations or banks are being held accountable? They aren't even expected to pay it back? No one sees them as criminals. Why?
Does anyone point to President Bush's religion after he drove the U.S. economy into the ground? No one is seeing President Bush as a criminal after what he has done. He isn't saying he is sorry or accepting responsibility for what he has done.
Bernard Madoff admitted to his sons guilt of what happened or what was about to happen to the business. None of the heads of large corporations who have stolen money and take millions of dollars in bonus money have admitted any guilt after they have driven a business into the ground.
I remember hearing on one business network that the reason the first recent bailout was necessary was because the world economy is so delicately balanced that everything would collapse without the bailout. In other words, every financial institution in the world is dependent upon one another in order to stay afloat. One tanks and it has a dominoe effect. I think this is what happened to Bernard Madoff and others.
I wonder about Mutual Funds and if they are a ponzi scheme. The fund managers are the ones who benefit.
What about insurance companies who take your money and then don't want to pay out? What about banks who made loans to people who they knew couldn't pay them back?
Everyone should be treated the same. I watched one science show that said that the process of finding someone guilty is subjective. For every guilty person, there is an innocent person in jail. I was shocked at this. I guess if you want to see someone as guilty, they look much more guilty even if you have to distort the facts. This is unfortunate. I thought that facts were the facts.
Don't get me wrong....I am not condoning what Bernie Madoff did. He was wrong and he should be held accountable but so should others. Martha Stewart went to prison and yet the CEO of Enron wasn't held accountable. Why?
I guess what I want to say is that I see Jews as highly ethical human beings. I will always stand up for Judaism. If I were to choose one religion, I would have to say that I think that Judaism contains the basic truth.
At this point in my spiritual development, I am not sure of anything. I grew up in the Lutheran Church going to church every Sunday with my parents. At this time, the only thing that I can truly say with all honesty is that I believe in science.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
New Recipes
I've been having fun trying out new recipes this month. I discovered a new bread recipe to make dinner rolls. I found a great bread recipe in Mother Earth News that I love making since you keep the dough in the refrigerator and can use it as needed. I learned how to make focaccia from a Food Network show. I just finished making a chocolate cake from scratch that is an old recipe that is great. All this food and no one but Les and I to eat it.
We are going to spend the holiday season alone this year. We are having a nice time so far. Weather has made it impossible to travel plus Les has been so sick that he wants to just spend Christmas alone.
We are going to spend the holiday season alone this year. We are having a nice time so far. Weather has made it impossible to travel plus Les has been so sick that he wants to just spend Christmas alone.
Christmas movies
I have been watching Christmas movies nonstop since Thanksgiving. It's been fun. There are some really good Christmas movies out there and some that are not so great. I've enjoyed it as I made and finished a quilt for my husband for Christmas and as I now crochet a blanket. I also knitted two baby blankets watching Christmas movies. Oh, the fun of it all!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Norm Thompson
I received for Christmas a delicious Swedish Tea Ring pastry from my son, Benjamin. My husband and I both agree it is delicious and a special pastry for the holiday.
Please call to order yours at 1-800-821-1287 or visit http://www.normthompson.com/.
Please call to order yours at 1-800-821-1287 or visit http://www.normthompson.com/.
Nueske's Applewood Smoked Meats
My husband received a wonderful gift basket delivered by Fed-Ex yesterday from Amanda and our son, Ben for Christmas from Nueske's Applewood Smoked Meats. The breakfast basket was complete with everything for a delicious breakfast with lean bacon and pancake mix. It came in a nice basket that we can use for dinner rolls for meals.
If you want to surprise someone with a wonderful gift that will be appreciated and loved, please call 1-800-720-1153.
Neuske's Applewood Smoked Meats
Rural Route 2
Wittenberg, Wisconsin 54499
If you want to surprise someone with a wonderful gift that will be appreciated and loved, please call 1-800-720-1153.
Neuske's Applewood Smoked Meats
Rural Route 2
Wittenberg, Wisconsin 54499
Shared Space System
In seven regions in the Netherlands, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, and the UK, the Shared Space system is being used with promising results. There are no street signs, no traffic lights, and no distinction between foot paths and roads, and yet a pedestrian can feel safe enough to walk backwards without looking through a busy intersection. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians must interact in the Shared Space System and watch out for each other and stop watching signs. They have found that courtesy works.
During the four years prior to the Shared Space System in one busy intersection in the Netherlands, there were eight serious accidents. During the four years after the Shared Space System was implimented, there were zero accidents. At the busy intersection, there is a round-about. In the center is a water fountain with sensors that move the water up higher during times of busy traffic and the sound of the water drowns out the noise of the traffic.
In the last few years, there have been many tragic deaths of bicyclists in the Corvallis and Philomath area. I believe we need to consider using the Shared Space System to prevent any more tragic deaths and consider using it all over Oregon.
During the four years prior to the Shared Space System in one busy intersection in the Netherlands, there were eight serious accidents. During the four years after the Shared Space System was implimented, there were zero accidents. At the busy intersection, there is a round-about. In the center is a water fountain with sensors that move the water up higher during times of busy traffic and the sound of the water drowns out the noise of the traffic.
In the last few years, there have been many tragic deaths of bicyclists in the Corvallis and Philomath area. I believe we need to consider using the Shared Space System to prevent any more tragic deaths and consider using it all over Oregon.
Teach Your Baby To Read
I just watched an infomercial about the reading program for babies called Your Baby Can Read. http://www.yourbabycanread.tv/
You can call 1-800-295-2899
I know that this works because I used the ideas for these materials with my own children. In college at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University, I learned in one of my education classes about the Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential. This institute studies the full range of human potential. It gives workshops and sells materials to parents. The Your Baby Can Read program comes from this research.
You have a small window of opportunity to teach your baby as a parent and given them a strong foundation for learning and success in school. When small children see that learning is fun, they amaze you with what they can learn. Nothing is impossible to learn in the first five years, if the material is explained clearly and without pressure. A few minutes a day produces amazing success.
You can call 1-800-295-2899
I know that this works because I used the ideas for these materials with my own children. In college at Oregon College of Education, now Western Oregon University, I learned in one of my education classes about the Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential. This institute studies the full range of human potential. It gives workshops and sells materials to parents. The Your Baby Can Read program comes from this research.
You have a small window of opportunity to teach your baby as a parent and given them a strong foundation for learning and success in school. When small children see that learning is fun, they amaze you with what they can learn. Nothing is impossible to learn in the first five years, if the material is explained clearly and without pressure. A few minutes a day produces amazing success.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Separation of Church and State
Many early settlers fled to the United States to get away from religious tyranny. The framers of the Constitution and Bill of Rights wanted to prevent this from happening on American soil.
The United States is the land of the free where you can have an opinion and worship as you wish without fear of repression from one powerful church that determines government policy. We are a melting pot of many philosophies, religions, opinions, and ethnic groups. All have a right to exist and deserve respect as long as they do not cause harm to others or represents hate.
However, when a church tries to violate the civil liberties and prevent some Americans from enjoying the freedoms that others take for granted, they need to be stopped and maybe it's time to look at their tax exempt status especially when our nation is severely in debt.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints actively worked to stop Prop 8 in California, just as they actively worked to defeat equal rights for women under the constitution.
Maybe a test case needs to be brought before the U.S. Supreme Court.
The United States is the land of the free where you can have an opinion and worship as you wish without fear of repression from one powerful church that determines government policy. We are a melting pot of many philosophies, religions, opinions, and ethnic groups. All have a right to exist and deserve respect as long as they do not cause harm to others or represents hate.
However, when a church tries to violate the civil liberties and prevent some Americans from enjoying the freedoms that others take for granted, they need to be stopped and maybe it's time to look at their tax exempt status especially when our nation is severely in debt.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints actively worked to stop Prop 8 in California, just as they actively worked to defeat equal rights for women under the constitution.
Maybe a test case needs to be brought before the U.S. Supreme Court.
Survivor Gabon
I love watching Survivor. My favorites on Survivor Gabon were Marcus and Charlie. To my shock and dismay, they were voted off so I had to find a new favorite so I picked Bob. I'm glad Bob won Survivor Gabon.
I look forward to the next Survivor. I wish I could be on survivor.
I look forward to the next Survivor. I wish I could be on survivor.
Starter Wife
Starter Wife is one of my favorite shows on television. The stars of Starter Wife are Debra Messing, Judy Davis and David Alan Basche. I love Debra Messing. I loved her in Will & Grace and now I love watching her in Starter Wife on the USA Network.
At the last part of the season finale episode, Debra Messing in character of Molly Kegan said these words....
"It's time...
time to be queen of Molly Kegan's destiny and I'm ready.
Ready to celebrate and cherish the moments,
to go after what I want without any guarantees,
to leave behind the things that are wrong for me.
Ready to forgive.
Ready to face all of life's unexpected twists,
to pursue happy endings which may never come
and to let go when it's too painful to hold on.
Ready to turn the page."
At the last part of the season finale episode, Debra Messing in character of Molly Kegan said these words....
"It's time...
time to be queen of Molly Kegan's destiny and I'm ready.
Ready to celebrate and cherish the moments,
to go after what I want without any guarantees,
to leave behind the things that are wrong for me.
Ready to forgive.
Ready to face all of life's unexpected twists,
to pursue happy endings which may never come
and to let go when it's too painful to hold on.
Ready to turn the page."
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Lars Olsen, attorney at law, with offices located in Albany and Salem, Oregon was our bankruptcy attorney. He was more than our attorney because he had been in our home and we thought he was a friend. His wife is such a nice person. I wonder if she knows all that he is when he goes to work. He is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was a member of the Four Corners Ward when we became members in 1995. I used to have all kinds of dinner parties, welcome to the ward parties, baby showers, missionary parties, and lunches for women in our home on Burlwood Loop in Salem.
Life changed in the church when we tithed a medical malpractice settlement. We handed over a check to the Four Corners Ward for the amount of $16,179.00 and for the year of 1998, our yearly tithing came to $21,855.68. All of a sudden this check was not enough and we were pressured to spend more money taking care of the needs of members of the ward.
We decided to move. We purchased property at 333 Thistledown Lane in Gates, Oregon from Tim Bowman, land developer. There were problems with the property. Water was too close to the surface. We were on a hill overlooking the river. I love being up high. Les, my husband, put in a greenhouse for me, lawn sprinkling system, and faucets around the property so I could run an automatic drip system. I loved it and I had big plans to plant annuals along the wide area along the driveway and front of our house. He had a large garage built with extra storage area in back with a large fenced dog run. It turned out that as more parcels were developed the water runoff flooded the area below. In order to solve the problem, our deed was rerecorded with Ticor Title without our knowledge so that the developer could have more options with the entire acreage for development. This made it so that we couldn't sell the property. Our mortgage was with Washington Mutual Bank and they wouldn't help us. The Luba Appeal that we filed didn't work to help us that was filed by attorney, Donald Kelley. We ended up having to walk away from this property giving it back to Washington Mutual who resold the property, and we had to file bankruptcy.
Then Lars Olsen walks into the picture. We went to him for help. I have a letter dated in 2004 from a Salem attorney saying that, "You were clearly wronged....The intervening bankruptcy was poorly handled." The statute of limitations bars legal remedy. We felt betrayed.
We moved to Alsea and bought a small cottage that we can afford in 2001. We moved into a home and we had an inspection on the home that said everything was A-Okay. The inspector overlooked the fact that the water was undrinkable, and the pellet stove was broken, which is the only source of heat. Les decided that after being shunned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while serving a mission in Salem to help people find employment in an eight stake area and being betrayed by church members, he would ask for help with a new pellet stove. He thought this was fair considering the amount of tithing that we had given over the years. Alsea resident and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Carol De Young pointed out to other people in Alsea how wonderful the church was to help us buy a stove. She was part of the shunning in the church since she was a member of the relief society presidency at the time. Here in Alsea, I've been stopped from contributing in meaningful ways. I figure everything stems back to Mormons. I was asked by Relief Society what I needed. I told them that all I wanted was friendship since I knew it would be hard to live here. After all that has happened, I should put up a sign that says no Mormons allowed on our property.
When we moved into our Alsea cottage, there was a homemade water softner system that we were told used 12 bags of 40 pounds of salt EVERY month. Since the one who told us had a Ph.D. and taught at OSU, we believed him. The water at the tap was too salty to drink. I refused to drink it. After a few months, I finally convinced Les to take it out. He ended up taking it to the dump. Now we only use 4 bags of salt tablets and put it in at the well.
I still do not understand why we were treated this way in this church. Letters to Salt Lake brought responses that not all leaders are righteous but to attend anyway to be a good example. When I brought up some of my concerns to Bishop Wade Haslam of the Philomath Ward, he told my husband to "shut her up and control her," right in front of me. Wade Haslam is now the Stake President. This is how this church deals with problems and this is how they show respect for the members.
One of my concerns about this church was when I was working to serve my mission to help members in an eight stake area find employment in Salem. I came upon a document from the Hayden Lake Stake in Idaho outlining the employment goals for the members. I eyes bugged out as I saw the name Hayden Lake for I remembered that in 1999, this was the headquarters for a Nazi extremist group that was broken up by the FBI. I was shocked that there was a stake in an area that welcomed this hate group. About this time I saw a missionary come back from South America from this church. I was shocked that on the back of his missionary was a "Heil Hitler salute."
Another concern was after we moved to Alsea, my husband was told that Mormons think of themselves as the Jews of the Old Testament. Zion is supposedly in Missouri. I couldn't believe anyone could believe this. This is a major example of attempting to rewrite history.
Other concerns were about polygamy. The bishop of the Philomath Ward, Bishop Lear said that when the prophet decides that it is time to practice polygamy, he hopes that he is picked. I've heard this comment from other men in the church at other times.
I served as a member of the compassionate service committee, stake choir, primary president, secretary of the stake relief society, and a mission to help people in an eight stake area find employment. It wasn't until the end that I saw how corrupt leaders were and how they didn't practice what they preach on Sunday. Do I have any respect for this church? NO! Do I feel this church is the keeper of religious truth? NO! They use your faith in God and manipulate this faith for their own purposes. What is even more cruel is that after you faithfully go to the temple and wear the garments, that they use this belief that you will one day be reunited with your family together in heaven to manipulate your behavior. It takes a great deal of courage when you believed in all of this, wanted to do the right thing for God, to shed your garments and walk away. According to this church anyone who sheds their garments and walks away from this church enters outer darkness and is lost forever. This is brainwashing of the most cruel form. It is manipulative. It is cruel and abusive.
Life changed in the church when we tithed a medical malpractice settlement. We handed over a check to the Four Corners Ward for the amount of $16,179.00 and for the year of 1998, our yearly tithing came to $21,855.68. All of a sudden this check was not enough and we were pressured to spend more money taking care of the needs of members of the ward.
We decided to move. We purchased property at 333 Thistledown Lane in Gates, Oregon from Tim Bowman, land developer. There were problems with the property. Water was too close to the surface. We were on a hill overlooking the river. I love being up high. Les, my husband, put in a greenhouse for me, lawn sprinkling system, and faucets around the property so I could run an automatic drip system. I loved it and I had big plans to plant annuals along the wide area along the driveway and front of our house. He had a large garage built with extra storage area in back with a large fenced dog run. It turned out that as more parcels were developed the water runoff flooded the area below. In order to solve the problem, our deed was rerecorded with Ticor Title without our knowledge so that the developer could have more options with the entire acreage for development. This made it so that we couldn't sell the property. Our mortgage was with Washington Mutual Bank and they wouldn't help us. The Luba Appeal that we filed didn't work to help us that was filed by attorney, Donald Kelley. We ended up having to walk away from this property giving it back to Washington Mutual who resold the property, and we had to file bankruptcy.
Then Lars Olsen walks into the picture. We went to him for help. I have a letter dated in 2004 from a Salem attorney saying that, "You were clearly wronged....The intervening bankruptcy was poorly handled." The statute of limitations bars legal remedy. We felt betrayed.
We moved to Alsea and bought a small cottage that we can afford in 2001. We moved into a home and we had an inspection on the home that said everything was A-Okay. The inspector overlooked the fact that the water was undrinkable, and the pellet stove was broken, which is the only source of heat. Les decided that after being shunned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints while serving a mission in Salem to help people find employment in an eight stake area and being betrayed by church members, he would ask for help with a new pellet stove. He thought this was fair considering the amount of tithing that we had given over the years. Alsea resident and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Carol De Young pointed out to other people in Alsea how wonderful the church was to help us buy a stove. She was part of the shunning in the church since she was a member of the relief society presidency at the time. Here in Alsea, I've been stopped from contributing in meaningful ways. I figure everything stems back to Mormons. I was asked by Relief Society what I needed. I told them that all I wanted was friendship since I knew it would be hard to live here. After all that has happened, I should put up a sign that says no Mormons allowed on our property.
When we moved into our Alsea cottage, there was a homemade water softner system that we were told used 12 bags of 40 pounds of salt EVERY month. Since the one who told us had a Ph.D. and taught at OSU, we believed him. The water at the tap was too salty to drink. I refused to drink it. After a few months, I finally convinced Les to take it out. He ended up taking it to the dump. Now we only use 4 bags of salt tablets and put it in at the well.
I still do not understand why we were treated this way in this church. Letters to Salt Lake brought responses that not all leaders are righteous but to attend anyway to be a good example. When I brought up some of my concerns to Bishop Wade Haslam of the Philomath Ward, he told my husband to "shut her up and control her," right in front of me. Wade Haslam is now the Stake President. This is how this church deals with problems and this is how they show respect for the members.
One of my concerns about this church was when I was working to serve my mission to help members in an eight stake area find employment in Salem. I came upon a document from the Hayden Lake Stake in Idaho outlining the employment goals for the members. I eyes bugged out as I saw the name Hayden Lake for I remembered that in 1999, this was the headquarters for a Nazi extremist group that was broken up by the FBI. I was shocked that there was a stake in an area that welcomed this hate group. About this time I saw a missionary come back from South America from this church. I was shocked that on the back of his missionary was a "Heil Hitler salute."
Another concern was after we moved to Alsea, my husband was told that Mormons think of themselves as the Jews of the Old Testament. Zion is supposedly in Missouri. I couldn't believe anyone could believe this. This is a major example of attempting to rewrite history.
Other concerns were about polygamy. The bishop of the Philomath Ward, Bishop Lear said that when the prophet decides that it is time to practice polygamy, he hopes that he is picked. I've heard this comment from other men in the church at other times.
I served as a member of the compassionate service committee, stake choir, primary president, secretary of the stake relief society, and a mission to help people in an eight stake area find employment. It wasn't until the end that I saw how corrupt leaders were and how they didn't practice what they preach on Sunday. Do I have any respect for this church? NO! Do I feel this church is the keeper of religious truth? NO! They use your faith in God and manipulate this faith for their own purposes. What is even more cruel is that after you faithfully go to the temple and wear the garments, that they use this belief that you will one day be reunited with your family together in heaven to manipulate your behavior. It takes a great deal of courage when you believed in all of this, wanted to do the right thing for God, to shed your garments and walk away. According to this church anyone who sheds their garments and walks away from this church enters outer darkness and is lost forever. This is brainwashing of the most cruel form. It is manipulative. It is cruel and abusive.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Ross Dress for Less
I'm really impressed with Ross Dress for Less and the treasures that you find at discount prices.
Ron Goldman
I watched an interview on television with the Goldman family who have vigorously made sure that O. J. Simpson was not allowed to get away with anything after he murdered Ron Goldman and got away with it. It makes me wonder whether laws should be changed. O. J. Simpson was not found guilty for the murders of his wife and Ron Goldman. When the truth comes out after a trial, maybe a new trial should be held to put the person behind bars for the crime they committed. Justice is not served when someone who is guilty remains free for something they did.
Hitchhikers
When I was coming home from shopping in Corvallis this week, a young woman seemed desperate for a ride. I never pick up hitchhikers but I did stop to see what this woman needed. Maybe it was because I’ve been watching a lot of Christmas movies in the last two weeks and because I’ve heard religious leaders in the past say that Jesus could be the one asking for help at the side of the road. After this experience, I will never pick up another hitchhiker no matter how innocent it seems. I will not pick up anyone with children or if they are in the middle of an accident. Never again. She could have had a gun. She could have meant to cause me harm.
I listened to her talk about the medication she was on, the trauma she experienced, and about her life. I watched as she rhythmically rocked back and forth in the seat. She obviously needed help. She needed to talk to someone professionally. She shouldn’t be driving at all. She should be living in a bigger place where she is close to the resources she needs and medical care.
I caught her in three lies and now I wonder if everything she said was a lie. First, she told me that her truck blew up and that’s why she needed a ride. When I took her home, her truck was in the drive way. Second, she told me that she lived close to town. She lived ten miles west of Alsea. Finally, she wanted a ride to her house. I didn’t feel comfortable going any further down her road so I told her she could get out in the driveway. After I backed out of the driveway, I saw a sign that said that cars shouldn’t go on the road.
No one should ever pick up a hitchhiker. I never will again under any circumstances no matter how innocent the situation seems.
I listened to her talk about the medication she was on, the trauma she experienced, and about her life. I watched as she rhythmically rocked back and forth in the seat. She obviously needed help. She needed to talk to someone professionally. She shouldn’t be driving at all. She should be living in a bigger place where she is close to the resources she needs and medical care.
I caught her in three lies and now I wonder if everything she said was a lie. First, she told me that her truck blew up and that’s why she needed a ride. When I took her home, her truck was in the drive way. Second, she told me that she lived close to town. She lived ten miles west of Alsea. Finally, she wanted a ride to her house. I didn’t feel comfortable going any further down her road so I told her she could get out in the driveway. After I backed out of the driveway, I saw a sign that said that cars shouldn’t go on the road.
No one should ever pick up a hitchhiker. I never will again under any circumstances no matter how innocent the situation seems.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
It’s interesting that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the keeper of the nativity scenes in Corvallis each year as an effort to find common ground between all churches in the area, when this church believes that anyone can be a god in the afterlife, if they are good enough, if they obey, and if they follow without question the teachings of this church and the leaders. Other churches believe that to think that you can be a god is sacriligious.
Dr. Rob Nebeker
Dr. Rob Nebeker is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a doctor with Benton County in Corvallis. My husband was prescribed medication by Dr. Nebeker that sedated him to the point where he was too drowsy to drive. He would fall asleep just sitting in a chair during the day watching television. Dr. Nebeker gave him this medication with the knowledge that my husband was driving back and forth to Salem from Alsea five days a week to finish a mission assignment for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to help members in an eight stake area find employment. Dr. Nebeker ignored a letter that my husband gave to him that I wrote outlining my concerns, fears, and questions about the high doses of medication prescribed by him. Dr. Nebeker did nothing to make sure my husband was safe or received the care he needed when trying to get off this medication.
Could it have been done on purpose since my husband and I were challenging church doctrine and practice? Did Dr. Nebeker violate his trusted position as a doctor?
Could it have been done on purpose since my husband and I were challenging church doctrine and practice? Did Dr. Nebeker violate his trusted position as a doctor?
Monday, December 01, 2008
Bail-outs
I question the wisdom of bailouts to failing corporations. I think there should be a cap on greed with a check and balance system set in place by Congress. Bail-outs to large corporations who didn't do a good job of doing business in the first place without accountability, without legal documents signed that ensures that money will be put towards an agreed-upon outcome is not okay. It's like giving $5 to the spoiled bully who stomps his foot because he wants it.
Is it really okay for a bully to take all the marbles and let no one else have any, destroying the entire game while doing it? I think not.
It isn't okay for corporate heads to rob and raid the U.S. Treasury without clear, outlined programs set in place that are agreed upon that will not only return the money but strengthen this country, create jobs, and do the job of revitalizing the corporation that the money helps. It isn't okay for the corporate leaders to be given money and not do what they said they would do. Members of the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate are negligent when they allow this to happen. They are watching while public money is being stolen right before their eyes. I've heard one estimate that the total corporate bail-out could reach seven trillion dollars! All this without accountability or assurance that they will do with the money what they said they would, which is what is happening now.
And what about the FBI, Justice Department, and the U.S. Supreme Court? Why aren't these legal bodies doing something about the great theft of the U.S. Treasury? Why aren't they creating controls on what is being done to make sure our country remains strong? Why did Martha Stewart go to prison for something that is miniscule in comparison to what corporate leaders are getting away with now?
In listening to business commentary, I am amazed at people who say that if someone accepts a bad mortgage, it was their fault, as in buyer beware. People come to experts because they have specialized knowledge. They come because they trust. They pay a fee for this education and expert knowledge. Now everyone must be their own expert. Blame the victim.
Yes, we all must educate ourselves but if we can't trust experts to help us, what good are they? Why should anyone pay good money to an expert again? Why can't we expect as consumers that we get what we pay for? Why can't we assume that the legal system will get rid of the crooks? What about ethics? What about accountability? No one wants accountability in anything--business, government, health care, or education. Why?
It isn't okay when people are homeless and millions don't have health care for corporations to keep taking. A profit is okay but taking unlimited profit while those who buy are left out in the street to forage for food, isn't okay. There needs to be a cap placed on business profit so that everyone wins, not just those at the top holding the bag of money and power.
Everyone deserves a chance. Everyone deserves a chance to dream. Everyone deserves a good education. Everyone deserves to win, if they work hard and play by the rules. Isn't that what this country is all about?
Is it really okay for a bully to take all the marbles and let no one else have any, destroying the entire game while doing it? I think not.
It isn't okay for corporate heads to rob and raid the U.S. Treasury without clear, outlined programs set in place that are agreed upon that will not only return the money but strengthen this country, create jobs, and do the job of revitalizing the corporation that the money helps. It isn't okay for the corporate leaders to be given money and not do what they said they would do. Members of the House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate are negligent when they allow this to happen. They are watching while public money is being stolen right before their eyes. I've heard one estimate that the total corporate bail-out could reach seven trillion dollars! All this without accountability or assurance that they will do with the money what they said they would, which is what is happening now.
And what about the FBI, Justice Department, and the U.S. Supreme Court? Why aren't these legal bodies doing something about the great theft of the U.S. Treasury? Why aren't they creating controls on what is being done to make sure our country remains strong? Why did Martha Stewart go to prison for something that is miniscule in comparison to what corporate leaders are getting away with now?
In listening to business commentary, I am amazed at people who say that if someone accepts a bad mortgage, it was their fault, as in buyer beware. People come to experts because they have specialized knowledge. They come because they trust. They pay a fee for this education and expert knowledge. Now everyone must be their own expert. Blame the victim.
Yes, we all must educate ourselves but if we can't trust experts to help us, what good are they? Why should anyone pay good money to an expert again? Why can't we expect as consumers that we get what we pay for? Why can't we assume that the legal system will get rid of the crooks? What about ethics? What about accountability? No one wants accountability in anything--business, government, health care, or education. Why?
It isn't okay when people are homeless and millions don't have health care for corporations to keep taking. A profit is okay but taking unlimited profit while those who buy are left out in the street to forage for food, isn't okay. There needs to be a cap placed on business profit so that everyone wins, not just those at the top holding the bag of money and power.
Everyone deserves a chance. Everyone deserves a chance to dream. Everyone deserves a good education. Everyone deserves to win, if they work hard and play by the rules. Isn't that what this country is all about?
Stem Cells
I was watching the show Beyond Tomorrow a couple of weeks ago on the Science Channel on television and saw a show about horse racing in England. When a race horse is injured, they often never race again. In England, they are using stem cells to heal the injury so the horse is about to return to horse racing and continue to make money. They are as good as new 80% of the time. They take stem cells out of the horse's bone marrow and inject it into the injury. Within a month, they are healed.
My husband has been sick for quite awhile. Now it's with the flu, bronchitis or whatever it is. I was thinking that if he were injected with stem cells taken from his bone marrow, it would do the trick. A simple injection into the lungs would heal. I imagine this same procedure would heal people with breast cancer, lung cancer, and all types of disease from which people die. It's already being used to heal people with heart disease to repair the heart muscle.
We need to do research with stem cells so that we are able to regenerate and heal our bodies.
My husband has been sick for quite awhile. Now it's with the flu, bronchitis or whatever it is. I was thinking that if he were injected with stem cells taken from his bone marrow, it would do the trick. A simple injection into the lungs would heal. I imagine this same procedure would heal people with breast cancer, lung cancer, and all types of disease from which people die. It's already being used to heal people with heart disease to repair the heart muscle.
We need to do research with stem cells so that we are able to regenerate and heal our bodies.
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