mousecrazy

I still maintain that it is not anti-Christian to be wealthy and successful. I believe that success is the result of committment and dedication and preparation. I do not believe it is the responsibility of ambitious and dedicated people to completely equalize the situation for those who do not care to invest in their own future. I am sure some of you will not believe this, since I am a capitalist pig (being a public school teacher and all) but I am very generous to charity groups such as Habitat for Humanity, the local food banks, Marine Moms, and other people I just happen to know personally need a little help. I wouldn't normally say anything about it, but in this context I felt it necessary. I agree with the poster above; government is absolutely not the best vehicle for achieving and processing the help that others require. I do not mind paying a fair tax for true governmental responsibilities, and I expect the government to exercise restraint and frugality. What I object to is the waste and over-spending...the unnecessary jobs and bureacracy that is created...the jobs created to oversee the jobs that oversee the actual programs that might help a few people. Cut out the middle men...and let our money actually go to the people who need it. Are we the better judges of that, or is the faceless, soulless government? I support a flat tax; we'll save money right off the bat, just drastically reducing the IRS.

Yea! Eileen got to play today! I get to make the turkey, the cranberry sauce (I made it last night, but I'll probably have to make more, since DD is taking some to school on Friday), and the pumpkin pie. The rest of the family makes the other dishes, and we all bring them to my sister's house. This year, my BIL from DC is bringing a new girlfriend. This should be interesting. The last time he brought a girl, which was 7 years ago (this should tell you something!) she hated my pets, complained about the gifts, didn't like my DD, and slept most of the day. Needless to say, she did not pass the "family test". We are hoping for better this time around. Can't wait to meet her, and I sincerely mean that. I do hope she is a great gal and we just love her! Okay, gotta go! 20 days and countin'......

Welcome to LBT...I am in the "north of Denton" area! Great job on your weight loss!

Mandy and Mary, neither of your stories are boring. I read every bit of both of them. I feel for you both. One thing I want to say, is that both of you are doing the right thing for your kids by limiting the exposure. By doing that, you are limiting the suffering. It's really ironic how life is. My DD had two wonderful grandma's and lost them both. She was 1 1/2 when DH's mom passed away, and she was 7 when my mom passed away. She misses them so much; and your kids probably miss what they don't have, too. I try to replace some of those memories, and my sister steps in as the aunt to fill in some of the grandma gaps, too...but I guess there are some shoes that can't be filled. You are both doing the very best you can do, and that is all anyone can ask. Dianne, I really appreciate your thanks! You know, my students have been a big blessing to me, and I'm grateful for that. The wind swept into Texas last night with a vengeance, and it's cold and gusty here...of course, I like it, but I bet Betty isn't very happy! I have to go shopping for a new home PC. Ours is 3 years old, and isn't keeping up with the demands made on it by our network/internet usage. Kinda fun...remember when the bare bones 'puter was about 2K? Of course, we have to transfer stuff from the old hard drive to the new one...but it's not that hard. Anyone know how to scrub/clean a hard drive? We want to donate the old computer to DD's school. Well, gals, that's all I can think of for now... Still sending prayers for all... Cindy

During this process, which has been 16 months, there have been 4 or 5 rather lengthy plateaus I have gone through. My choice has been to endure them, and learn something about "head hunger" while I'm at it. I also learned about patience during these periods. I have valued each plateau for lessons learned, so perhaps these are actually gifts, not obstacles. Yeah, I know this sounds a little philosophical, but being in a hurry can cause its own problems.... Good luck, and know that the scale will move again, Cindy

Wow, Mandy...that's a shame. You MIL is missing out on so much, isn't she? It's hard to explain that kind of favoritism, but there's no doubt it exists. Abi has a wonderful mom for a reason! How are her chicken nuggets? That's so cute! I need to get crackin' on the Christmas cards...I think DD and I have a good plan for a photo. We always send photo cards. Last year, I didn't send cards at all...it just seemed like it was too soon after mom died to send out jolly cards. This year, I think I can do it. I've already written the letter that goes with them. It was touchy figuring out how to acknowledge the losses, without being too dark. I hope I got it right. Stay bright, you're a great mom! Cindy

I'm sitting here waiting on a "client" (read: kid who can't write!), so checking in. Well, turning in my paperwork felt great and a little sad. Just a LITTLE. One big step for me; one insignificant step for mankind. It's getting more and more real, every day. I'm so excited! Mary asked if I have been at this school the whole time, and the answer is: 23 years. The first 6 years I taught in a different school, but in the same school district. I also went to school in this district - 1st through graduation. This is the sad part - it doesn't really matter to anyone, but me. You think, this surely isn't true. I assure you, it is. Still, it's been a great career, and I wouldn't trade it for anything else. I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for these at-risk kids who need someone to show them the way. I know there will be someone behind me to take up the task. Dianne, I have and will pray for your friend Jay. It is not possible for us to understand the plan God has in this, but I pray for His will, and that His grace will be shown to Jay and his family. Eileen, I bet you are looking forward to the next two days, huh? Hey guys, gotta get. My kiddo is here to work now. Hugs, Cindy

Stunning pictures, Beanie! The atmosphere is just wonderful! Feels like I was standing right there! Thanks for posting them!

I would support a flat tax of 10% across the board. Is that a plan that the DNC, or Hillary, is promoting for their national agenda? I do not support an inheritance tax on the general principal that the money was taxed when it was made. Why should it be taxed when it is passed on? That is double taxation in my mind. I hold no grudge against rich people, or big corporations. In fact, I rather like them. After all, they create jobs and wealth for others. I hope this is not taken as a statement meaning I support illegal activities of large corporations, which I don't. But wealth and prosperity is not something to punish. So, Wheetsin, to your original questions, no. I don't agree with the sliding scale of taxing at a higher percentage for those who make high incomes. I like a flat tax rate.

Good morning to all! Darcy, I hope you had a great time at the quilt retreat! I might just go on one of those someday...it's on my "list". Glad you are back! Mandy, well, you certainly have a full plate (again!). I've been in your shoes on the friendship thing...unfortunately, you just can't choose your friend's love interests. I know you want to protect him, and you have given him good support and advice, but that's all you can do. I imagine it will work out, and if not, you will have to decide how much emotional stress the friendship is worth to you. Now, the cat...I was stunned when I saw the pictures...he looks very much like my dearly departed pal, Athena. Where yours has Mickeys, mine had a stretched out view of the the land mass of the globe. She was black and white, and nice and plump, just like your guy! I almost feel like Athena has come back, decorated with Mickeys, just for you! I hope so, because she was one cool cat! Congratulations! I'm glad he came in time to be comforting to you and Abi, now that you are nursing the Chicken Pox. Pat, I love the tree...it is beautiful! You had such gorgeous decorations last year, and I love seeing the pictures! Thanks for the tip on the doorframes...I'll be sure to run a dust cloth up there, too! I already discovered the top of the rods in the closets! Betty, your pork roast sounds scrumptious! I miss cooking...we are living on frozen Lean Cuisines and sandwiches! Patty, glad to hear you have some good news from your lawyer, and that you are feeling more positive about things. Sometimes spiritual needs are so important, and the ones we overlook. I'm glad you took care of yours! Eileen, I am sorry to hear of your FIL's diagnosis. I know you have a lot of this burden on your shoulders, and I hope you will have some help and support with it. It is so frustrating to have to wait on medical tests to confirm what you have already known in your heart. On the other side, I am glad to hear you are happy with the last fill...I hope it works out great for you! Kat, that eating response runs deep, doesn't it? I still get that feeling, too...it's part of the battle, and it's something we just have to keep fighting. I think distracting and re-directing behavior is the best course of action. I hope it worked for you, and if it didn't, that whatever you ate was worth it! Chrispy, glad you are feeling really great, and good luck with that first fill! Cass, hi there! Great pic of you and BF, and I hope you use that as your avatar. I need a new avatar, myself! Guess I will get around to it, when I find the camera, and the computer gets fixed. Sherry, how are you? Still dancing? Dianne, are you home from your trip? My retirement update: I have 22 more days of teaching; my last day is Dec. 20. I have not had 2nd thoughts. There are students I will miss, but they will stay in touch with me through email, and one of my very best "sister" friends still teaches here, so I will not be totally out of the loop. I am not planning on working at all for the spring semester, but I am not dead set against it; if something puts itself in my path and I feel it is a "purpose" for me, I will do it. I'm planning on taking my time, and spending my time on my family and myself, after spending so much time elsewhere. I am always open to new things, and I don't imagine that will change, so it's hard for me to say "never." Scrapbooking and quilting are two things that I want to devote some serious time to! Just giving up two hours a day in commute time will improve my daily life so much, it's not even funny! No second thoughts here. We did get my DD's room put back together, and began the office room. I still don't have my breakfast room back, but the stuff stored in it is slowly being moved to it's rightful place(s). I still can't park in the garage, but that's not a big deal...it's not like there is a foot of snow out there, or anything! I guess this is the longest post in a long time for me! Most of the kids I had scheduled for today haven't shown up, so I've had some time. This afternoon, I'm going to the ad. building to turn in my termination packet, and other papers you have to file when you retire. Another big step, checked off the list! Love you guys, Cindy

Just a quick pop-in to say hi...I'm covered in dust! I think I'm one big dust bunny! We are starting in DD's room, just finished dusting off everything in the closet, and the closet shelves. Took down the curtains to wash them, then have to do the blinds. DH bought her a new computer desk, so he'll build that when he gets home. Hopefully, we'll have her back her room by tonight. Then we'll start on the "home office" room. Beautiful day, nice and sunny, and cool! Hugs, Cindy

Besides the iron/mineral deficiencies, which is definitely worth looking into, I thought I might mention this. I have some pants that are kind of slick; a yoga/jog type pant. When I wear them, I sometimes get bruises on my inner thighs. I don't know really why...I suppose the material clings, and when I cross my legs it pinches the skin. Just thought I'd mention it...maybe it's a particular type of pants you are wearing?

I'll just poke my head in, and agree with the conservatives here. I seriously doubt the world is safer now; not that I am sure we are in more danger. I just think we are STILL in danger, and hope that those in power now know that. And if they know it, they will act on that knowledge. No appeasement. Of course, my conservative friends and I have some difficulty being heard over the crowing. It will be a bit more difficult to have power and defend the actions of those in power than it was to criticize and back-seat drive, though. We shall see.

Good evening! I had to read fairly quickly...hope I didn't miss anything! Beanie, enjoy NY, and no, I'm not retired yet...the remodeling is simply because we always wanted wood floors, even when we built the house. We just couldn't afford them at that time. We're not selling our house, that's for sure! I was only taking the new teaher's class for one day...my regular assignment right now is to work with students one at a time, on their writing skills. These students have taken and failed our state test, and they also do regular remediation with their English teacher...I'm an "extra". We saw Santa Claus 3 this afternoon; it was cute! DD and I shopped all day, then saw the movie. She was out of school today so teachers could have parent conferences, so I took another day off. What a life, huh? The good news is that the floors are all done...so tomorrow we can start putting the house back together! That will be nice, and lots of work! Gotta go, I'm pooped out, and ready for bed... Hugs to all, Cindy

Just popping in to say "Tomorrow is another day!" I am a supporter of President Bush, I agree with most everything in Jack's post, and am very interested to see the governance of the Democrat-dominated Congress. I realize there is not a huge margin, so things will be difficult, and I am worried about taxes going up, supoenas being issued (more tax money spent on the past) and the economy suffering for all of the above. I am worried that the Democrats do not really believe there is a war that must be won against the jihadists, or that they even exist. In two years, another election will be held, and aren't we all thankful we live in a country where people are free to vote or not vote, and we DON'T live in one of those fake democracies where you HAVE to vote in order to get benefits?

Hi, everyone! Patty and Mandy, ya'll certainly do have your plates full with IEPs and ARDs. I don't envy you one bit. I've been to many of those meetings, on the other side of the table. Just to put in a good word for teachers: most of us want to help the special needs kids, we really do. The "middle men" get right in the way, though. All the laws and rules and regulations, and then the fear of being sued...well, it's hard to know how to help, and if you go out on a limb to try something, what if it's the wrong thing? Another problem that sometimes happens is there are so many kids in the teacher's class, and so many of them have IEP's, that following all of the special needs requests becomes almost impossible. Perhaps this isn't the situation that your children are in, but if it is, I beg mercy on these teachers. If, however, you are unfortunate enough to have a do-nothing, bad teacher, go ahead and put her head on a plate for all I care. I'm just asking to look at the entire picture...teachers are asked to do a mighty big job these days, especially in elementary school. I will also pray for both families that they are guided to the right teachers and that the right hands will touch these little lives. I know the teachers who can do it are out there. Mary, I hope are okay...please let us know! Kat, happy anniversary! I bet this is the sweetest anniversary of all! Chrispy and Sherry...line dancing is a blast! I used to go dancing a lot when I was a single gal, and I still love it! Ya'll have fun! To everyone else, have a great day! Eileen, how's your back/hip? I hope you are feeling better. Love to all, Cindy

Paladin, thank you for your analysis of exit polls. I was surprised to find so much faith placed in them, especially by those who are cynical about almost everything else. I read an interesting post by T.O.M. in another post about determining fact...it might be an interesting read, and it might be worth thinking about in relation to exit polls. If you turn the issue around, and consider the possibility that people might not give the pollster an accurate answer...or the questions themselves might be biased or skewed...or the media outlet reporting them might have an agenda one way or the other...then, an exit poll might reflect inaccurate information. Thus, a poor predictor of the results, and everyone goes to bed thinking one thing is going to happen, and it doesn't. Maybe a deeper and more thoughtful investigation of the media might be called for. It is also interesting that those who are slanting to the left here are more likely to use words like "stupid" and other ad hominem attacks. Why is that? Perhaps that is considered "humor"? I am also grateful for Fox News (Faux for the liberals), because without it, we would only know that there were 200 protestors outside the rally in Texas, but wouldn't know that there were 18,000 supporters inside...among other things. Apparently, a majority of the people in the United States of America are stupid, because they keep electing these stupid conservatives to office, especially George Bush, and his neo-con hacks (yes, I am being facetious). I am a supporter of our president, especially in a time of war, and our country should be standing together. Not that we all have to agree on everything, just like most families don't agree on everything. But, when attacked from outside, they stand together. We should, too.

I told my 9 year old daugher, who was 7 at the time. She saw the pamphlets and I explained how it worked. She is amazed when she hugs me now, that she can get her arms all the way around me. She has been my biggest fan!

I will explain the pay system for teachers. Teachers are paid by contract day. I work 187 days, which includes teaching days, and training (in-service) days. Teacher salary is for those contract days; technically, there are no paid vacation days. Thus, if a teacher must be "docked" for missing a day that is not covered by an agreed upon sick day, that "dock" is 1/187th of the yearly salary. Most districts divide the yearly salary (for the 187 work days) into 12 monthly installments, for the teacher's convenience. Teachers have long asked for their jobs to be extended to longer contracts, but cannot get that approved by the legislature or the public. It is a good point to remember, however, that a teacher's contract is relatively short...I have pointed out earlier ( I think it was in this thread) that most teachers I know do not complain too much about their pay. Other aspects cause great frustration.

The fact that there are two major political parties SHOULD be enough to prove that there is not just one way of "maturing." Each person has his/her own reasons for supporting one party's basic platform, or the other's. So, Jodie, I hope you do not take to heart the thinly veiled criticism you find hear. Of course, you will grow and change with time. I did, too. I went from liberal, to conservative. My parents went from conservative to liberal. I went from holding lighters up and yelling "Dude" at Rolling Stones concerts to holding American flags up and cheering for President Bush. Life is, indeed, strange and wonderful. I am sorry that a few here are unable to engage in civil discourse, and choose to take a scornful attitude toward others. I do not always agree with you, but you have maintained a civil tone, even though your ideas were met with anger. I applaud you for that! Go vote!

My report on last night: OMG! We had VIP tickets, so we were down on the floor. There were no more seats, so they told us "standing room only". We were shown to the area to stand, which was right in front of the podium. We were wondering if we should go to the seats in the stands (this is Reunion Arena), but decided we would tough it out...there were lots of state officials who spoke...very interesting, if you're into it (I am). Then, I start noticing the police getting more active...up toward the catwalks, and around the very top of the arena. We are so close to the podium, about 20 feet away. A little hand places the Presidential Seal on the podium. The Secret Service get into position. Then, then Rick Perry and wife, and President Bush and Laura Bush come out, and walk to the stage. Rick Perry speaks for about 10 minutes. Then, President Bush. I could see the lines in his face, that's how close I was! Make no mistake, I am a big supporter, but I want to tell ya'll this: he is really good speaker. He does not stutter and stammer. He is forceful, firm and polished. He does use some Texas/country dialect, but we like that down here. It was a very impressive speech. Afterwards, he walked about 3 feet away from me, shaking hands, and I just couldn't reach out far enough, but he was so close! I was in awe of being that close to the President of the United States. There were 15 - 18,000 people there. There were 200-250 protestors outside. Who do you think got the most coverage on the news? or on the front page of the paper? OH, and the band Casting Crowns was the warm-up entertainment! I had the best time...DH and I were standing with a group of college kids from Univ. of Dallas...they were so enthusiastic and so excited! Then, I was on the radio this morning, too! It's been a fun evening, and a fun day! Hey, gotta run...I'm subbing for another teacher for a while. P.S. I know not everyone loves G.W., but it is so cool to see a President!

Hi, Terri! I hate to hear about all the hard times you have been going through...sometimes there is just no escaping some of the scary rides! You are very strong and have handled it all well, it sounds like! Glad you checked in and asked for a little shoulder time! Yes, many of us are still here! Hugs, Cindy

Here I am at home, just hanging out. It sure is nice. The workers will be here soon, and I'll be forced to go shopping. Mandy, I bet you are right about the muscle relaxer...I hadn't even thought of that. The good news is my back does feel a lot better, so I caught it in time. Close call! Everyone have a great day!

I'm cracking up at all the toot stories! If ONLY I had one to tell! LOL! I do have a booger story, though. My friend and I were floating in the Gulf on one of those big island things, and I told her she had a booger, then we started laughing so hard we fell off, and we almost drowned! It might not sound as funny as it was, but we still laugh about it to this day! We are all done emptying out the last 3 bedrooms! Yippee! Pat, the pictures you posted of your remodeling look almost exactly like our house right now! I'm staying home tomorrow...we were given tickets to the big GOP rally, and Pres. and Laura Bush will be there. This will be the first time I have ever seen a U.S. President so I am very excited. Anyhooooo, DH and I are leaving mid-afternnon, because it takes a long time to get through security clearance, and DD is staying at my dad's. If you see news clips of the President at the Texas GOP rally, think of me! My back is all twingy and stiff...thinking of YOU, Eileen. I took a muscle relaxer, and dang if it didn't hit me like a ton of bricks. I've taken it before, and didn't even feel it, really. I guess I'm just really tired. I'm gonna get to bed...I'll post in the morning. I'm going to meet the contractor, then take DD's clothes down to dad, and shop a little, then get back home to get dolled up for the big event! Hugs, Cindy

I appreciate the joke about Fox News, although I'm surprised you didn't want to spell it Faux. Regardless of your take on the stats, there are many people, maybe 50% or more even, who DO think it is good to cut back on Medicaid. Cutting back on the total budget does not mean a cut in benefits. I am sure that if Medicaid is anything at all like my own personal budget, a 6% cut would reflect something like less Starbucks per month. Rick Perry did not achieve these cuts on his own. You and T.O.M. have not responded to that fact. Do you believe that the governor has the executive power to make these decisions all by himself? Thus, your outright hatred of the man is of a more personal nature, or blatant partisanship. I neither love nor hate the man, but would prefer a more reasonable examination of the issues. If you have a soft spot for the disabled, that's a nice thing. But is government intervention the best solution, do you think? It appears you believe that government officials and politicians are basically a negative and corrupt lot, most of them, so why throw in with them? How can that be a good thing? So much bureacracy, so much $$ wasted. Wouldn't it be easier for the kids sharing glasses to contact a local Lions Club? I'm serious on this, although I admit to being sarcastic a lot of the time. I see that you and others truly believe that government should meet the medical needs of all the people, or maybe the poor people, even though I am not sure how we define poor. Or disabled. There are so many ways to define these terms, and they become broader and broader all the time. Personally, I welcome a narrower definition, and I welcome the expectation that families provide for their own. I believe it can be done by most, if it is expected of them to do so. Go ahead and roll your eyes. I know I am very misguided.