1) Moving back to the City. Yeah, it’s expensive, and I’m going to have to sell the car before I can really live here w/o being in debt, but I still love it, love my apartment, etc.
2) Trifecta of trips (Egypt in April with Jacob, Alaska with Kyle in July, and a Christmas Markets River Cruise through Germany and Austria with my birth mom). No wonder I’m in debt - but it was worth it!
3) McCullum Youth Court. Part of the coolness of this is being in charge again, but it’s also a genuinely awesome org that I’m psyched to be a part of it and I continued to be blown away by the youth involved in the program!
4) My year of Wine. From SueLin’s Winter Wineland Birthday Celebration to start the year off to my Wine Tasting Holiday Party Fundraiser to end it, I definitely drank more wine this past year than probably the past 7-10 combined! AND have a new fave: Pinot Noir over Cab.
5) Other parties. From the party that was absolutely amazing up until the moment someone killed our cat to the end of year festivities, I was reminded how much I enjoy hosting (and going to! why won’t someone ELSE throw a party and invite me?) a good party!
6) Thanksgiving road trip. Perfect in that it only took a couple of hours to get to our “base” in Santa Cruz, and then included fun side/day trips to Monterey and Big Sur, PLUS getting to hang out with my “El Lay” buddies AND my boy. Good times.
7) The only decent thing about Obama’s presidency: that so many gap-toothed, slack-jawed, inbred, backwoods, racists are SO upset by him. If only half of what these dimwits thought was happening, was happening, I’d be much happier.
8) Kyle walking. Even though it was “only” for a Certificate of Completion, he’s still the first one in his birth family history to do even that, so I'm still proud of him!
9) Asterios Polyp. I need to get back to reading more, but am definitely glad I went outside my normal genres to devour this awesome graphic novel. Loved it loved it loved it!
10) Good entertainment for a change. This was one of the best years for me in terms of discovering new and old “mainstream” entertainment. Awesome movies like Fantastic Mr. Fox, Christmas Carol in 3-D IMAX, Avatar in 3-D IMAX (seeing this weekend, but feel safe in putting down now!), The Princess and the Frog, Coraline, Star Trek, Harry Potter, District 9, In the Loop, and The Damned United were all amazing. Tho I only watch DVDs for TV, I continued/discovered awesome series like: Dexter, Lost, 30 Rock, Desperate Housewives, Mad Men, Heroes, and Flight of the Conchords. And my personal “entertainer of the year” is/was Ryan Reynolds. Not only is he a stud, but he actually has some range as witnessed by his roles in “The Proposal,” “Adventureland,” and “X-Men.” Oh, and he’s got a decent body, too. :)
Showing posts with label Obama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Obama. Show all posts
9/11/09
Medical Marijuana, Maher Mayhem, & More!
So as of the day I'm writing this, September 11th, I am "legal" to buy medical marijuana. I celebrated by finishing off the last of my "illegal" dope. But as I was leaning out the window, overlooking Hyde, and blowing smoke out, an older man across the street, middle-Eastern (irony alert!), stopped from walking up Hyde towards Sutter to look across the street where it seemed he looked right at my window/me.
So I just stood there, looking around, and of course assuming he's a terrorist because Rush says he fits the profile, and blah blah blah, before he slowly starts to walk off, but he keeps pausing to look across the street, and of course I could just be paranoid, but it did seem like he was looking at me/my window.
But I wouldn't give him the satisfaction. :)
He turned east up Sutter, and went (skulked!) around the building on that corner, but I waited to see if he would pop back around to try and "catch" me or whomever he was gawking at. I decided, if he did that, I'd have to call the FBI on him.
But seriously, what's sad is, if I were someone like, say, Peter Krause in Civic Duty, I could probably make a big deal out of it. Which is just gross. Awful movie, BTW--and not just because of the stereotyping; I was actually embarrassed for Peter Krause. Anyway, as the movie does show very well, tho, this country is still very, very ill--despite Obama's optimistic speech.
Like with medical marijuana. I know for a fact that it helps me with my glaucoma--as well as the band that's still around my eye. And, also, lately, it has helped me from sliding into too deep of a depression worrying about Kyle.
But somehow, it's preferable to "medicate" those symptons with either chemicals in my eyes on a daily basis, and then Xanax or Paxil or Zoloft, blah blah blah--rather than something that grows naturally. I mean, I don't get it.
And, luckily, for all of its other problems, I'm fortunate enough to live in a state that allows for it. It's ludicrous that the Republicans can't get behind this coz then they can help control how it's taxed. And of course it'd bring in a buttload of money, and seriously curtail violence here and in Mexico over the trade. I mean, honestly, what century are we living in?
Why are we letting, why did we ever let, a slack-jawed, dimwitted, electorate outmanuever "us?" (i.e., the 70% of the country that's NOT crazy--although I think Bill Maher might be generous using that percentage figure; see link at end).
Yeah, Obama won, and maybe he'll get something done on health care, but where's the big symbolic gesture that could be made, that would cost nothing but a "stamp of approval" from him or an executive order? I'm not even suggesting it had to be in support of legalizing marijuana or gay marriage; I'm just saying that moments like this in history don't come around that often.
And the moment never proves to be more important than the follow-through. I mean, how could it? If he wanted to embrace the idea that he came in facing as great a challenge as FDR, then he should have been better prepared to move like FDR did when he took office--to immediately put the Republicans on the defensive reacting to policy change announcements, drafts of legislation, executive orders, bully puplit speaking, etc.
And I'm only angry because of how badly--how very badly--Bush responded/took all the universal goodwill felt toward the United States after 9/11 and not only squandered it, but beat it to a pulp and fed it to jackals and crows. Word.
Freaky coincidence. The day after I wrote the above, a friend forwarded me the following video--Maher said it almost as well as I did! :) Click here.
So I just stood there, looking around, and of course assuming he's a terrorist because Rush says he fits the profile, and blah blah blah, before he slowly starts to walk off, but he keeps pausing to look across the street, and of course I could just be paranoid, but it did seem like he was looking at me/my window.
But I wouldn't give him the satisfaction. :)
He turned east up Sutter, and went (skulked!) around the building on that corner, but I waited to see if he would pop back around to try and "catch" me or whomever he was gawking at. I decided, if he did that, I'd have to call the FBI on him.
But seriously, what's sad is, if I were someone like, say, Peter Krause in Civic Duty, I could probably make a big deal out of it. Which is just gross. Awful movie, BTW--and not just because of the stereotyping; I was actually embarrassed for Peter Krause. Anyway, as the movie does show very well, tho, this country is still very, very ill--despite Obama's optimistic speech.
Like with medical marijuana. I know for a fact that it helps me with my glaucoma--as well as the band that's still around my eye. And, also, lately, it has helped me from sliding into too deep of a depression worrying about Kyle.
But somehow, it's preferable to "medicate" those symptons with either chemicals in my eyes on a daily basis, and then Xanax or Paxil or Zoloft, blah blah blah--rather than something that grows naturally. I mean, I don't get it.
And, luckily, for all of its other problems, I'm fortunate enough to live in a state that allows for it. It's ludicrous that the Republicans can't get behind this coz then they can help control how it's taxed. And of course it'd bring in a buttload of money, and seriously curtail violence here and in Mexico over the trade. I mean, honestly, what century are we living in?
Why are we letting, why did we ever let, a slack-jawed, dimwitted, electorate outmanuever "us?" (i.e., the 70% of the country that's NOT crazy--although I think Bill Maher might be generous using that percentage figure; see link at end).
Yeah, Obama won, and maybe he'll get something done on health care, but where's the big symbolic gesture that could be made, that would cost nothing but a "stamp of approval" from him or an executive order? I'm not even suggesting it had to be in support of legalizing marijuana or gay marriage; I'm just saying that moments like this in history don't come around that often.
And the moment never proves to be more important than the follow-through. I mean, how could it? If he wanted to embrace the idea that he came in facing as great a challenge as FDR, then he should have been better prepared to move like FDR did when he took office--to immediately put the Republicans on the defensive reacting to policy change announcements, drafts of legislation, executive orders, bully puplit speaking, etc.
And I'm only angry because of how badly--how very badly--Bush responded/took all the universal goodwill felt toward the United States after 9/11 and not only squandered it, but beat it to a pulp and fed it to jackals and crows. Word.
Freaky coincidence. The day after I wrote the above, a friend forwarded me the following video--Maher said it almost as well as I did! :) Click here.
9/9/09
Obama's Health Care Speech
I wanna know what he just said to Hillary, coming in, coz she busted out laughing. Did anyone hear?
You know, seeing Biden up there, I actually like him more now than in the past when he was a boring old Senator. His supposed “gaffe problem” at least means he’s more genuine than most of the liars in office these days.
Can’t decide if I like that brooch thing at Michelle’s neck or not, but I know I don’t like Obama’s striped tie.
I have to say, it is still weird/cool to see him up there as President of the United States, to see the sycophantic ovations over his very basic opening remarks, etc.
Okay, I do like the line, “I’m not the first president to take up this cause, but I am determined to be the last.” Good luck with that, Barack!
Cool fact about John Dingell (D-MI) and his dad (google them if you missed it; although you;ll also disover an unpleasant fact about the dad if/when you do).
Oh, crap - getting insurance on your own costs 3X what employers pay for your coverage?? I have to get my own coverage for my new job; gotta change that! J
The stories are appalling! And people have the gall to trash the British, Canadian, French, etc. systems as something to fear? Gawd!
Haha--Pelosi smiled when Obama said “no one disputes these facts.”
Gotta admit, he just made a compelling argument for “a middle way.” Dammit!
Nice little bit of scolding on the bickering. Boehner looks unhappy over that; of course, he still looks orange, too - I wonder what health issue HE has? Oh yeah, George Hamiltonism!
Ah, the pre-existing condition thing; THAT is a biggy. Oooh, dropping you when you’re sick; that’s another one. It’s ludicrous we have to even fight for things like this.
Nice graphic showing the link to the details of what he wants: http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/health_care/plan/
Snap! Give Americans the same oppt’y Congress gives itself!
Awww, he threw a bone to McCain. Cute.
Oooh, called out that….that….oooh, I’m trying to keep this PG….that Palin woman on her stupid “death panels” thing.
Key point: it’s outrageous beyond belief that health care should be a profit-driven enterprise. Disgusting!
Good comparison re: the public option with public vs. private colleges.
Oooh, called out the Repubs to quit making up shit and to work together to address “legitimate” concerns.
Choice. Keep working that word, Mister Man! :)
Snap again on “making sure no insurance company bureaucrat or government bureaucrat gets between you and the health care you need.”
Wow, some loser congressman sitting next to Boehner is texting! Showed him again and he‘s still doing it! Gawd!
Talk about a miracle - for the first time probably ever Feinstein is one of the few women in the audience not wearing a red “power” outfit.
Interesting that the repubs in the house can’t even bring themselves to applaud protecting Medicare. They make me sick. But then so do the Democrats, in general. Ha.
You know, I do have to say that even tho it’s a “conservative” issue, I’m down with reforming our medical malpractice “problem.” Gasp! He said something the Bush administration proposed on this issue that he thinks is a good idea!
EXCELLENT point about those who feel “it’s better to kill this plan than improve it.”
“We will call you out.” He’s so hip! :)
Biden and Pelosi are tearing up over Teddy. I am too, a bit.
Ha! CNN doesn’t know who Chuck Grassley is!
Excellent finish. He needs to do this, be like this, more often. I’m back on board!
Hmm, dare I listen to CNN’s “analysis”??? I think not.
Wait, wow, I didn’t hear the inappropriate Congressman saying, “You lie” Jeez, how do these freaks get into office? Way to harsh my buzz, CNN.
Click.
You know, seeing Biden up there, I actually like him more now than in the past when he was a boring old Senator. His supposed “gaffe problem” at least means he’s more genuine than most of the liars in office these days.
Can’t decide if I like that brooch thing at Michelle’s neck or not, but I know I don’t like Obama’s striped tie.
I have to say, it is still weird/cool to see him up there as President of the United States, to see the sycophantic ovations over his very basic opening remarks, etc.
Okay, I do like the line, “I’m not the first president to take up this cause, but I am determined to be the last.” Good luck with that, Barack!
Cool fact about John Dingell (D-MI) and his dad (google them if you missed it; although you;ll also disover an unpleasant fact about the dad if/when you do).
Oh, crap - getting insurance on your own costs 3X what employers pay for your coverage?? I have to get my own coverage for my new job; gotta change that! J
The stories are appalling! And people have the gall to trash the British, Canadian, French, etc. systems as something to fear? Gawd!
Haha--Pelosi smiled when Obama said “no one disputes these facts.”
Gotta admit, he just made a compelling argument for “a middle way.” Dammit!
Nice little bit of scolding on the bickering. Boehner looks unhappy over that; of course, he still looks orange, too - I wonder what health issue HE has? Oh yeah, George Hamiltonism!
Ah, the pre-existing condition thing; THAT is a biggy. Oooh, dropping you when you’re sick; that’s another one. It’s ludicrous we have to even fight for things like this.
Nice graphic showing the link to the details of what he wants: http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/health_care/plan/
Snap! Give Americans the same oppt’y Congress gives itself!
Awww, he threw a bone to McCain. Cute.
Oooh, called out that….that….oooh, I’m trying to keep this PG….that Palin woman on her stupid “death panels” thing.
Key point: it’s outrageous beyond belief that health care should be a profit-driven enterprise. Disgusting!
Good comparison re: the public option with public vs. private colleges.
Oooh, called out the Repubs to quit making up shit and to work together to address “legitimate” concerns.
Choice. Keep working that word, Mister Man! :)
Snap again on “making sure no insurance company bureaucrat or government bureaucrat gets between you and the health care you need.”
Wow, some loser congressman sitting next to Boehner is texting! Showed him again and he‘s still doing it! Gawd!
Talk about a miracle - for the first time probably ever Feinstein is one of the few women in the audience not wearing a red “power” outfit.
Interesting that the repubs in the house can’t even bring themselves to applaud protecting Medicare. They make me sick. But then so do the Democrats, in general. Ha.
You know, I do have to say that even tho it’s a “conservative” issue, I’m down with reforming our medical malpractice “problem.” Gasp! He said something the Bush administration proposed on this issue that he thinks is a good idea!
EXCELLENT point about those who feel “it’s better to kill this plan than improve it.”
“We will call you out.” He’s so hip! :)
Biden and Pelosi are tearing up over Teddy. I am too, a bit.
Ha! CNN doesn’t know who Chuck Grassley is!
Excellent finish. He needs to do this, be like this, more often. I’m back on board!
Hmm, dare I listen to CNN’s “analysis”??? I think not.
Wait, wow, I didn’t hear the inappropriate Congressman saying, “You lie” Jeez, how do these freaks get into office? Way to harsh my buzz, CNN.
Click.
9/6/09
Deep thoughts, cheap shots, and bon mots - the first
Okay, WTF is up with the way they package things like, say, thumb drives. Not only is it in an outrageous amount of plastic for its size, but it's really thick plastic - AND it's hermetically sealed AND crimped EXTRA tight around the edges!
You have to use scissors, really, to open these packages, and of course that ruins the scissors. But I’m guessing it aids in the prevention of shoplifting--which is, of course, a significantly more important issue than our impending environmental catastrophe (insert obligatory reference to the 12/2012 Mayan calendar thingy)
Speaking of catastrophes, check it out from Harper's Index:
Percentage change since 2002 in average premiums paid to large U.S. health insurance companies: +87; Percentage change in the profits of the top ten insurance companies: +428; Chances that an American bankrupted by medical bills has/had health insurance: 7 in 10
Let me give a shout out to Harper's Magazine, too. Best. Magazine. Ever.
Speaking of health care, I just saw "As Good As It Gets" again the other day and forgot about the strong health care access component to it. Interesting.
In another movie I saw, a woman made a very compelling argument about how after we had our post-WWII and Cold War "education push" to keep up with the Russkis, everyone got smart, questioned things, and the 60s happened. The guv'mint learned its lesson and has slashed education ever since. A few days after seeing that movie (which is about 5 years old), I read a strikingly similar theory/essay in Harper's magazine. Plausible or not? Discuss.
I've decided I would have no problem whatsoever living in a "Christian nation" if all these hypocrites actually did honestly base policies on "What Would Jesus Do?" I mean, any doubt on which side Jesus would be on re: health care? Or gay marriage for that matter? Or treating corporations as people?
It was disgusting beyond belief to see the outrage among the "Christians" when Obama “played the God card” for not helping the least among us--they actually got all huffy and many southern churches started advocating against health care just coz they were so outraged. Seriously, are these people truly that selfish and deranged?
I read this great letter to the editor in the Chronicle the other day wherein someone pointed out that conservatives always attack progress by flipping the script. "Extending civil rights to blacks means our rights are under attack." "Granting marriage rights to gays is an attack on marriage." "Extending medical coverage to all is an attack on health care."
As this letter writer mentioned: "There seems to be a steady pattern in which conservatives can't seem to enjoy a legal, social, or economic benefit without the added thrill of knowing that it's being denied to someone else." Word.
You have to use scissors, really, to open these packages, and of course that ruins the scissors. But I’m guessing it aids in the prevention of shoplifting--which is, of course, a significantly more important issue than our impending environmental catastrophe (insert obligatory reference to the 12/2012 Mayan calendar thingy)
Speaking of catastrophes, check it out from Harper's Index:
Percentage change since 2002 in average premiums paid to large U.S. health insurance companies: +87; Percentage change in the profits of the top ten insurance companies: +428; Chances that an American bankrupted by medical bills has/had health insurance: 7 in 10
Let me give a shout out to Harper's Magazine, too. Best. Magazine. Ever.
Speaking of health care, I just saw "As Good As It Gets" again the other day and forgot about the strong health care access component to it. Interesting.
In another movie I saw, a woman made a very compelling argument about how after we had our post-WWII and Cold War "education push" to keep up with the Russkis, everyone got smart, questioned things, and the 60s happened. The guv'mint learned its lesson and has slashed education ever since. A few days after seeing that movie (which is about 5 years old), I read a strikingly similar theory/essay in Harper's magazine. Plausible or not? Discuss.
I've decided I would have no problem whatsoever living in a "Christian nation" if all these hypocrites actually did honestly base policies on "What Would Jesus Do?" I mean, any doubt on which side Jesus would be on re: health care? Or gay marriage for that matter? Or treating corporations as people?
It was disgusting beyond belief to see the outrage among the "Christians" when Obama “played the God card” for not helping the least among us--they actually got all huffy and many southern churches started advocating against health care just coz they were so outraged. Seriously, are these people truly that selfish and deranged?
I read this great letter to the editor in the Chronicle the other day wherein someone pointed out that conservatives always attack progress by flipping the script. "Extending civil rights to blacks means our rights are under attack." "Granting marriage rights to gays is an attack on marriage." "Extending medical coverage to all is an attack on health care."
As this letter writer mentioned: "There seems to be a steady pattern in which conservatives can't seem to enjoy a legal, social, or economic benefit without the added thrill of knowing that it's being denied to someone else." Word.
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