Because I am a political rabblerouser I have to bring this up
The issue: The Federal government charges .18$ a gallon on gas, a flat tax, which ostensibly goes directly to infrastructure like keeping up highways, repairing bridges (Remember Minneapolis?) etc. Some politicians have suggested dropping this tax for the summer months as a relief for consumers.
McCain: Suggested this first
Hillary: now says it's a good idea
Obama: this is a stupid idea
Here's the kicker, with the exception of the one's working for campaigns, virtually every economist in the country says this is a stupid idea. I for one don't see how lifting the tax will have any effect on my habits, I still will have to drive to work. So what are your thoughts on this? Does anyone think this savings will make a difference in their lives?
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Besmirching Ourselves Online
Besmirching Ourselves Online: A Q&A With the Author of The Future of Reputation - Freakonomics - Opinion - New York Times Blog#more-2552
An interesting article and book. One point that the author didn't bring up in the interview but may address in the book is what this is going to do to politics. Whereas at one time someone might turn up an embarrassing photo of a politician from their past, now anyone who is interested in the public arena will likely have a very public life before even running for office.
I think that the current debate over Reverend Wright and Barrack Obama is a symptom of this. If every politician had to answer for every single e-mail and/or blog post or online forum post they might have made elections are going to be nearly impossible. At some point the electorate is going to say enough is enough, we don't care what he said when he was 18 in college, we want to know what she will do now.
An interesting article and book. One point that the author didn't bring up in the interview but may address in the book is what this is going to do to politics. Whereas at one time someone might turn up an embarrassing photo of a politician from their past, now anyone who is interested in the public arena will likely have a very public life before even running for office.
I think that the current debate over Reverend Wright and Barrack Obama is a symptom of this. If every politician had to answer for every single e-mail and/or blog post or online forum post they might have made elections are going to be nearly impossible. At some point the electorate is going to say enough is enough, we don't care what he said when he was 18 in college, we want to know what she will do now.
Do the Wright Thing
Trailhead : Do the Wright Thing
This is interesting, and as I said when this first surfaced, the best case for this issue is that it is still April and there is plenty of time for Obama and Wright to change up his public view. Which means there is a good chance the public will a) forget about it or disregard it come November or b) Wright's image will have changed up enough that people will disregard what he said once upon a time.
The thing is, everyone is up in arms over the whole "God Damn America" sermon, when Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson said the same thing in no uncertain terms. And no one is trying to crucify McCain for paying his political homage to Robertson last year. It's all about the spin, and right now the Neo-Cons control the spin.
This is interesting, and as I said when this first surfaced, the best case for this issue is that it is still April and there is plenty of time for Obama and Wright to change up his public view. Which means there is a good chance the public will a) forget about it or disregard it come November or b) Wright's image will have changed up enough that people will disregard what he said once upon a time.
The thing is, everyone is up in arms over the whole "God Damn America" sermon, when Jerry Falwell and Pat Robertson said the same thing in no uncertain terms. And no one is trying to crucify McCain for paying his political homage to Robertson last year. It's all about the spin, and right now the Neo-Cons control the spin.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Weekend Recap
1. The boys soccer went alright, despite the chaos of picture day. Daniel still doesn't seem too excited about playing, he was out there for 2 short stints. Kim is getting pretty frustrated with him, but I have been pretty philosophical about it, because the situation is really pretty intimidating: dealing with other kids, in a huge gym, that gets awfully loud, all at the same time. So I am still optimistic about his playing sports, and will sign him up for T-ball. I think T-ball will be better because it is outside, not nearly as intimidating, he will be more prepared having done the soccer, t-ball is very different, and I will get his cousin Brandon to play with him so there is a familiar face.
2. Dennis had his broomball tournament this weekend, I went to a couple of games. It was considerably more low key than in the past, which was good, much easier to deal with. The boys had a good time, which was the important thing.
3. Went to a friends kids birthday party, which was a god time. It was kind of weird, because the friend is actually one of Kim's childhood friends, and the party was hosted by another of Kim's friends, and Kim wasn't there. So I ended up hanging out with all these women and kids. But it is nice because I have become friends with them over the years an I actually knew more people there and felt more comfortable than I did at my cousin's kids party last week.
4. Managed to catch most of the second half of the Laker-Nugget game on Saturday, I tuned in just as the Nuggets were making the little run they could muster. Then the Lakers swatted them away behind my favorite player, young Luke. I think there is a real good chance the Lakers will be the only team with a first round sweep (so there Celtics).
5. Watched very little of the NFL draft, I think both of my teams did well, no crazy picks, just good solid players who will end up playing. After a few years of crazy picks and lots of reaches it is kind of nice to see a draft dedicated to just getting guys who can play, rather than going for the big splash.
6. Working a short day today, Emily has her 6 month checkup, which means shots, which means she will probably be pretty grouchy the rest of the day so I would like to be there to help Kim, and not have to worry about picking her up from someone else.
2. Dennis had his broomball tournament this weekend, I went to a couple of games. It was considerably more low key than in the past, which was good, much easier to deal with. The boys had a good time, which was the important thing.
3. Went to a friends kids birthday party, which was a god time. It was kind of weird, because the friend is actually one of Kim's childhood friends, and the party was hosted by another of Kim's friends, and Kim wasn't there. So I ended up hanging out with all these women and kids. But it is nice because I have become friends with them over the years an I actually knew more people there and felt more comfortable than I did at my cousin's kids party last week.
4. Managed to catch most of the second half of the Laker-Nugget game on Saturday, I tuned in just as the Nuggets were making the little run they could muster. Then the Lakers swatted them away behind my favorite player, young Luke. I think there is a real good chance the Lakers will be the only team with a first round sweep (so there Celtics).
5. Watched very little of the NFL draft, I think both of my teams did well, no crazy picks, just good solid players who will end up playing. After a few years of crazy picks and lots of reaches it is kind of nice to see a draft dedicated to just getting guys who can play, rather than going for the big splash.
6. Working a short day today, Emily has her 6 month checkup, which means shots, which means she will probably be pretty grouchy the rest of the day so I would like to be there to help Kim, and not have to worry about picking her up from someone else.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Where's the new Union's?
So I have been reading my thru Aric Alterman's 'Why We're Liberals' and it is a fascinating read. While I have to question some of his statistics as being slightly colored by the slant of the book, it really is a convincing read, and a terrible indictment of the Conservative movement and Republican administration.
But one of the biggest points I have come across which is really a crucial point, is where can the Liberals (and by extension although not exclusively Democrats) find a replacement for the role that Labor Unions once played in our country's politics? He argues, and it makes sense, that the Mega Churches have taken the role of social networking and political gathering place for the Conservatives that Unions used to play for the Democrats. And while the Mega churches have risen to become huge factors in our society, Unions and union membership have declined to the point that a large void has appeared for the Liberals.
For the first half of the century, and especially the 40 or so years from the Great Depression to the election of Richard Nixon, Unions played a huge role in our society. Most low income and lower middle class people belonged to unions. The union halls were social gathering points, and the Unions could put together large numbers of people to support their candidates. Well that has changed, my wife is really the only person my age that I know who is a member of a union.
Which means the Liberals have lost that starting point and base. Well here is where I bring the discussion to the current election. Obama and his supporters are using the best tool available to approximate the gathering point of mega churches and union halls: the Internet and social networking sites. And I think this is the sign that Obama really is the 'change candidate' that he claims to be. His campaign really is bringing out new voters and voting blocs, and using new tools that did not exist previously (or at least were not so prevalent). I think that as Hillary continues to court the old voting blocs of the Democratic party Obama is bringing new members to the party. Which I think could mean that his campaign will really change the politics of our country like we have not seen in a really long time.
But one of the biggest points I have come across which is really a crucial point, is where can the Liberals (and by extension although not exclusively Democrats) find a replacement for the role that Labor Unions once played in our country's politics? He argues, and it makes sense, that the Mega Churches have taken the role of social networking and political gathering place for the Conservatives that Unions used to play for the Democrats. And while the Mega churches have risen to become huge factors in our society, Unions and union membership have declined to the point that a large void has appeared for the Liberals.
For the first half of the century, and especially the 40 or so years from the Great Depression to the election of Richard Nixon, Unions played a huge role in our society. Most low income and lower middle class people belonged to unions. The union halls were social gathering points, and the Unions could put together large numbers of people to support their candidates. Well that has changed, my wife is really the only person my age that I know who is a member of a union.
Which means the Liberals have lost that starting point and base. Well here is where I bring the discussion to the current election. Obama and his supporters are using the best tool available to approximate the gathering point of mega churches and union halls: the Internet and social networking sites. And I think this is the sign that Obama really is the 'change candidate' that he claims to be. His campaign really is bringing out new voters and voting blocs, and using new tools that did not exist previously (or at least were not so prevalent). I think that as Hillary continues to court the old voting blocs of the Democratic party Obama is bringing new members to the party. Which I think could mean that his campaign will really change the politics of our country like we have not seen in a really long time.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
What am I listening to?
So I did a variation on this post a while back, but thought I would revive a variation of it. I will take my iPod on shuffle and go through the first 5 songs that show up and talk about the songs and what they mean to me.
"Ain't None of your Business" by Wendy O. Williams
Live version with intro by Wendy O. where she gives her graphic opinion of what she terms 'straight people' and what they are like. Wendy O. was really and amazing person, she is one of the few people who lived their life exactly as they wanted. Her band, the Plasmatics was a punk band that actually played a mix of Punk and Metal and mixed with her unabashed sexuality that made for an interesting mix.
"Blood and Iron" by Cirith Ungol
I got this song from a compilation of late 1980's Speed/Death Metal. The song itself is not extraordinary, it has a cool, albeit pretty formulaic hook. But hearing songs from that compilation always takes me back to my last year or 2 of college when I was listening to a lot of Metal, and walking back and forth to work at 7-11.
"Iron Man" by Black Sabbath
I first heard this song in elementary school when my friend Alex took me into his brothers room and played it. At the time for us all we could imagine it being about was the comic book action hero Iron Man. It wasn't until later that I listened to the lyrics and thought it might be about something else. But it is one of the classic Black Sabbath songs and it's tone is still unlike almost anything else you hear.
"Want somebody to Love" by Jefferson Airplane
A classic song off the Surrealistic Pillow album. This song always take me back to my teen hippy years, when I had long hair, listened to a lot of 60's music, Jim Morrison was my idol and I spouted quotes from the Communist Manifesto. The song itself is a good one and the vocal range of Grace Slick is just amazing.
"Orgasmotron" by Motorhead
Another 'crunch metal' song like Black Sabbath. I kind of slow death march like song, full of dark disturbing images. And if you care to actually care to listen to the lyrics you will hear a kind of anti-war message. A story that always comes to mind when I hear this song is that when this album came out I bought one of those big patches you sew on the back of your Jean jacket. Not knowing how to sew very well I asked my step mother to sew it on. Well a day or 2 later my Dad came to me and said that she decided she just couldn't sew something that graphic on my jacket. Here is the color image (the patch is all white thread on black background):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Orgasmatron.jpg
So there you have it, today's the post was a little heavy on the Metal side, but that could change next week.
"Ain't None of your Business" by Wendy O. Williams
Live version with intro by Wendy O. where she gives her graphic opinion of what she terms 'straight people' and what they are like. Wendy O. was really and amazing person, she is one of the few people who lived their life exactly as they wanted. Her band, the Plasmatics was a punk band that actually played a mix of Punk and Metal and mixed with her unabashed sexuality that made for an interesting mix.
"Blood and Iron" by Cirith Ungol
I got this song from a compilation of late 1980's Speed/Death Metal. The song itself is not extraordinary, it has a cool, albeit pretty formulaic hook. But hearing songs from that compilation always takes me back to my last year or 2 of college when I was listening to a lot of Metal, and walking back and forth to work at 7-11.
"Iron Man" by Black Sabbath
I first heard this song in elementary school when my friend Alex took me into his brothers room and played it. At the time for us all we could imagine it being about was the comic book action hero Iron Man. It wasn't until later that I listened to the lyrics and thought it might be about something else. But it is one of the classic Black Sabbath songs and it's tone is still unlike almost anything else you hear.
"Want somebody to Love" by Jefferson Airplane
A classic song off the Surrealistic Pillow album. This song always take me back to my teen hippy years, when I had long hair, listened to a lot of 60's music, Jim Morrison was my idol and I spouted quotes from the Communist Manifesto. The song itself is a good one and the vocal range of Grace Slick is just amazing.
"Orgasmotron" by Motorhead
Another 'crunch metal' song like Black Sabbath. I kind of slow death march like song, full of dark disturbing images. And if you care to actually care to listen to the lyrics you will hear a kind of anti-war message. A story that always comes to mind when I hear this song is that when this album came out I bought one of those big patches you sew on the back of your Jean jacket. Not knowing how to sew very well I asked my step mother to sew it on. Well a day or 2 later my Dad came to me and said that she decided she just couldn't sew something that graphic on my jacket. Here is the color image (the patch is all white thread on black background):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image:Orgasmatron.jpg
So there you have it, today's the post was a little heavy on the Metal side, but that could change next week.
Why aren't you watching Friday Night Lights?
Why aren't you watching Friday Night Lights? - By Sara Mosle - Slate Magazine
An excellent review of one of my favorite shows. Reinforcing my own opinion that this is just a great show. I am a little distressed that they are releasing the second season as it ended, because it didn't feel like the season was really over when the last episode aired. But I guess that life in the Post TV writers strike world. The review does reiterate my own personal view: Save Friday Night Lights!
An excellent review of one of my favorite shows. Reinforcing my own opinion that this is just a great show. I am a little distressed that they are releasing the second season as it ended, because it didn't feel like the season was really over when the last episode aired. But I guess that life in the Post TV writers strike world. The review does reiterate my own personal view: Save Friday Night Lights!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Mostly Recovered,,,which is more than I can say for Hillary
1. So I was out sick yesterday after spending Monday night and most of yesterday coping with an attack of Diverticulosis. I won't go into too many gory details just suffice to say these attacks consist of hellacious stomach cramps, in conjunction with terrible diarhea. I am still pretty worn out, plus since I didn't dare eat anything I also had that going against me.
2. So, thanks Pennsylvania, for failing to allow Obama the chance to deliver the knockou blow. Instead we now get to face the possbility of Hillary hanging around until the convention. While I would like Hillary to see thee writing on the wall and bow out gracefully this does give Obama the chance to remain in the public eye, continuing to fight, and also gives him a chance to answer all the negative things that McCain will say come fall. One of the biggest things about Obama's campaign is that it is changing the formula of who votes Dimmycrat. And this might signal a change for the better come fall.
3. I am reading a book my dad loaned me, Why We're Liberals by Eric Alterman, very interesting reading so far. The basic premise is that the country is not as conservative as many politicians and media would have us believe. And that the reason everyone thinks that way is because the Conservaitives have done a much better job of winning the media war. As I get deeper into it I will write more about it.
2. So, thanks Pennsylvania, for failing to allow Obama the chance to deliver the knockou blow. Instead we now get to face the possbility of Hillary hanging around until the convention. While I would like Hillary to see thee writing on the wall and bow out gracefully this does give Obama the chance to remain in the public eye, continuing to fight, and also gives him a chance to answer all the negative things that McCain will say come fall. One of the biggest things about Obama's campaign is that it is changing the formula of who votes Dimmycrat. And this might signal a change for the better come fall.
3. I am reading a book my dad loaned me, Why We're Liberals by Eric Alterman, very interesting reading so far. The basic premise is that the country is not as conservative as many politicians and media would have us believe. And that the reason everyone thinks that way is because the Conservaitives have done a much better job of winning the media war. As I get deeper into it I will write more about it.
Monday, April 21, 2008
FreeRangeKids
FreeRangeKids
I think this is both an excellent site, and an important one. The concept of 'Helicopter parents' vs. 'Free Range' is, I think, a crucial example of how our society and culture has deteriorated. People complain about the 'Nanny state' and how the government has intruded too much into our lives. Well you get what you deserve. And the hypocrisy is that the people who complain about it are probably the ones who do the most hovering over their kids. One of my favorite things to do along these lines is take the kids to the local mall playground, and then watch the helicopter parents hover, nervously walking back and forth and around the play ground in order to keep an eye on their kid. While I am spending most of my time trying to figure out how I can justify just leaving the boys and wandering into the book store.
One of my goals for this summer is to try and negotiate I kind of Free Range relationship with the neighbors as far as James and Jon Del. Because I think both can be trusted, and are unlikely to lead the other one into doing something bad. And I think letting them feel free to wander back & forth between the 2 houses without having to wait for a parents OK, would be a good thing. I know that as a kid I had a surprising amount of freedom especially when it came to playing with neighbors. And I would like for James to have that as well.
I think this is both an excellent site, and an important one. The concept of 'Helicopter parents' vs. 'Free Range' is, I think, a crucial example of how our society and culture has deteriorated. People complain about the 'Nanny state' and how the government has intruded too much into our lives. Well you get what you deserve. And the hypocrisy is that the people who complain about it are probably the ones who do the most hovering over their kids. One of my favorite things to do along these lines is take the kids to the local mall playground, and then watch the helicopter parents hover, nervously walking back and forth and around the play ground in order to keep an eye on their kid. While I am spending most of my time trying to figure out how I can justify just leaving the boys and wandering into the book store.
One of my goals for this summer is to try and negotiate I kind of Free Range relationship with the neighbors as far as James and Jon Del. Because I think both can be trusted, and are unlikely to lead the other one into doing something bad. And I think letting them feel free to wander back & forth between the 2 houses without having to wait for a parents OK, would be a good thing. I know that as a kid I had a surprising amount of freedom especially when it came to playing with neighbors. And I would like for James to have that as well.
Mark Cuban on CEO pay
My 2 Cents on CEO Pay - Blog Maverick
An interesting article, in one sense it explain a lot. And his idea for a solution makes sense, which of course means that it will probably never get implemented.
One additional point to make is that when it comes to taxes, these CEO's have a HUGE tax benefit to having their compensation in equity rather than cash. You will be taxed at a much higher rate for tax income versus capital gains, which is where these CEO's are really making their money.
An interesting article, in one sense it explain a lot. And his idea for a solution makes sense, which of course means that it will probably never get implemented.
One additional point to make is that when it comes to taxes, these CEO's have a HUGE tax benefit to having their compensation in equity rather than cash. You will be taxed at a much higher rate for tax income versus capital gains, which is where these CEO's are really making their money.
Weekend Recap
1. Boy's soccer, a tale of 2 teams. Daniel did not play much, and his team just got destroyed, the other team was basically all 4 year olds who had all been real heavily coached, some of them should have been playing in the 5-6 year old level. Sheila (Daniel's coach) was real mad. Since all but 1 of the kids on Daniel's team is new or 3 or both, they are lucky to get all 5 out there playing much less playing competitively. She has said that she is contemplating playing some 5-6 year olds the next time they play that team.
Then James' game came, and while the teams appeared pretty evenly matched, James' team won handily 5-0, with James getting a spectacular goal with his left foot as he was falling down. This was not a case like Daniel's team where James' team was just better, I just think they got luckier.
2. Watched some NBA playoffs, but not a lot, I am not sure if I am emotionally ready for the playoffs. So I am taking it easy, although I do have some quick points from the Laker-Nuggets game:
Then James' game came, and while the teams appeared pretty evenly matched, James' team won handily 5-0, with James getting a spectacular goal with his left foot as he was falling down. This was not a case like Daniel's team where James' team was just better, I just think they got luckier.
2. Watched some NBA playoffs, but not a lot, I am not sure if I am emotionally ready for the playoffs. So I am taking it easy, although I do have some quick points from the Laker-Nuggets game:
- there was one fast break at the end, where Odom was bringing the ball up, he did an almost Magic like pass to I think Vujacic, who whipped the ball right back for an amazing dunk by Odom
- I haven't seen team passing like this since the old days
- The interior passing was astounding, Gasol was getting so many close in looks it was an easy game for him
- Odom just killed the Nuggets with his rebounding. I think Rambis must have had a little training session with Odom, because he is acting almost Rambis like now on rebounds .
3. The Dimmycrat campaigning is getting ugly. I think Obama senses the chance to level a 'kill shot' and so he is really going for the throat. And Hillary is fighting for her political life so she is throwing everything she has into the battle. I don't know how it will all end up but I think Obama has really done well. He is so good with big crowds and speeches, his only weakness is debates. And I think he can be prepped for that so he can avoid getting creamed in those.
Friday, April 18, 2008
The Perils (and Joys) of smart children
So last night I took James to soccer practice, I was in a good mood up to that point. Well I am not impressed by the coach of his team, all he has them do is scrimmage the entire time. And then he is out there playing with them, and showing off his skills. After 3 practices it is clear this guy is not going to take the time to teach them anything. Which makes me pretty mad, I expected this guy to take the time and actually coach, and it is clear he has some knowledge to teach.
So as we left I asked the boys where they wanted me to pick up dinner from, and James started making noise about eating at the restaurant rather than picking up drive thru and taking it home. When I told him that was not an option he made some comments about how I was lazy and I never did anything. Which put me in an even worse mood.
Then I got home, the house was a mess because Kim has been helping her mom and sister the last 2 mornings before work instead of picking up. Which I understand but no one wants to come home to a trashed house when they are already in a bad mood (except Tammy of course). And they screwed up my order at the drive thru... arrgh
So when I put the boys to bed, and their room was a disaster I kind of went off, not yelling but just explaining to James why I was so irritated and that I expected him to clean his room first thing when he got home from school on Friday. So I went back to feeding Emily and relaxing some.
When I put Emily to bed, I heard James call my name I looked in and their room was completely cleaned up. He had stayed up and thoroughly cleaned the room, and not just a throw the toys in the closet type cleaning. And when I looked in it just felt so good to see that he had understood my irritation and taken it to heart. He said he did it because he wanted to be able to play after school, which is partially true but I think he also did it because he felt bad about me being so upset.
So the perils came about because he thought I was just being lazy and said so, and the joys because he was able to recognize that he could do something to make me happy and took the time to do it.
So as we left I asked the boys where they wanted me to pick up dinner from, and James started making noise about eating at the restaurant rather than picking up drive thru and taking it home. When I told him that was not an option he made some comments about how I was lazy and I never did anything. Which put me in an even worse mood.
Then I got home, the house was a mess because Kim has been helping her mom and sister the last 2 mornings before work instead of picking up. Which I understand but no one wants to come home to a trashed house when they are already in a bad mood (except Tammy of course). And they screwed up my order at the drive thru... arrgh
So when I put the boys to bed, and their room was a disaster I kind of went off, not yelling but just explaining to James why I was so irritated and that I expected him to clean his room first thing when he got home from school on Friday. So I went back to feeding Emily and relaxing some.
When I put Emily to bed, I heard James call my name I looked in and their room was completely cleaned up. He had stayed up and thoroughly cleaned the room, and not just a throw the toys in the closet type cleaning. And when I looked in it just felt so good to see that he had understood my irritation and taken it to heart. He said he did it because he wanted to be able to play after school, which is partially true but I think he also did it because he felt bad about me being so upset.
So the perils came about because he thought I was just being lazy and said so, and the joys because he was able to recognize that he could do something to make me happy and took the time to do it.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Presidential Debate
So I watched most of the debate last night. And I continue to be impressed by Obama. He tried so hard to contain himself and keep the discussion on the issues. There were a couple of times when I thought he might just snap and go after Hillary. Especially when she started talking about her Grandfather who started working in a factory at age 11, sigh, I would guess that Obama's sob stories can easily top that, but he didn't go there.
I am not sure if all of his policies will work, but he at least wants to do something new, a new approach instead of the same old thing. And he really wants the election to be about policies and issues, not whether someone's cousin or pastor, or business associate said something bad at one time.
I am not sure if all of his policies will work, but he at least wants to do something new, a new approach instead of the same old thing. And he really wants the election to be about policies and issues, not whether someone's cousin or pastor, or business associate said something bad at one time.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
The Fiscal Costs of Marriage and Divorce explained
The Fiscal Costs of Marriage and Divorce - Freakonomics - Opinion - New York Times Blog
I have to admit that when I first saw the article this blog refers to I was skeptical but thought, hmmm. maybe they are right. I know from personal experience that the single parents I know are not as well off as the married ones. But leave it to Freakonomics to bring me back to earth, it really is not as simple as all that. There are good reasons for parents to work things out in many cases, and it is very tough to raise a child as a single mom with no father in the picture. But it is not a simple economic decision, and the solution is not to force people to stay or get married just to avoid some economic costs.
I have to admit that when I first saw the article this blog refers to I was skeptical but thought, hmmm. maybe they are right. I know from personal experience that the single parents I know are not as well off as the married ones. But leave it to Freakonomics to bring me back to earth, it really is not as simple as all that. There are good reasons for parents to work things out in many cases, and it is very tough to raise a child as a single mom with no father in the picture. But it is not a simple economic decision, and the solution is not to force people to stay or get married just to avoid some economic costs.
The Signs of Spring, according to me
Spring is here, ah spring is here
I can tell because the signs are all here:
1. The NBA playoffs are set to begin. An annual rite which I am anticipating more this year than in the past. Of course that anticipation is checked by a fear that I am not emotionally ready for the likely roller coaster that will be the Western Conference this year. While the Lakers are the top seed, the conference is so loaded that being the top seed just doesn't feel the same as it did in years past.
2. The NFL draft is coming in less than 2 weeks. As the Rams hold a top pick (again) this year I am anticipating some interest and the hope that the Rams will get at least 2 starters. And the Broncos should get at least 1 starter as well.
3. The NHL playoffs have begun. Or at least that's what I've heard, since the strike I haven't really paid too much attention.
4. Baseball has begun, well at least I am paying a little closer attention this year than in the past, although it has not quite reached the point where I look at the standings every day.
5. It is time to start paying attention to the yard again, sigh... The plumbing work just destroyed my front lawn so there's a lot to do, and a real chance to change how the lawn looks. If only I had the spare money to bring the sprinkler guy in and really change it the way I want to.
I can tell because the signs are all here:
1. The NBA playoffs are set to begin. An annual rite which I am anticipating more this year than in the past. Of course that anticipation is checked by a fear that I am not emotionally ready for the likely roller coaster that will be the Western Conference this year. While the Lakers are the top seed, the conference is so loaded that being the top seed just doesn't feel the same as it did in years past.
2. The NFL draft is coming in less than 2 weeks. As the Rams hold a top pick (again) this year I am anticipating some interest and the hope that the Rams will get at least 2 starters. And the Broncos should get at least 1 starter as well.
3. The NHL playoffs have begun. Or at least that's what I've heard, since the strike I haven't really paid too much attention.
4. Baseball has begun, well at least I am paying a little closer attention this year than in the past, although it has not quite reached the point where I look at the standings every day.
5. It is time to start paying attention to the yard again, sigh... The plumbing work just destroyed my front lawn so there's a lot to do, and a real chance to change how the lawn looks. If only I had the spare money to bring the sprinkler guy in and really change it the way I want to.
BTW I added a new link to my favorites, Free Range Kids, check it out, especially if you are a parent.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Obama shoots self in foot, then inserts said foot in mouth
Well I am pretty discouraged about this. I have a hard time figuring any good way to spin this.
The 'Bitter' story
The actual Obama quote:
Quote:
"You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them," Obama said. "And they fell through the Clinton Administration, and the Bush Administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."
I know what he was trying to say, but could he have possibly found a worse way to say it? Man, it's a good thing this is April and not October, because there's a small chance (slim and none) that any Republican strategist worth his salt might decide it's old news by October.
Stoopid Dimmycrat
The 'Bitter' story
The actual Obama quote:
Quote:
"You go into some of these small towns in Pennsylvania, and like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing's replaced them," Obama said. "And they fell through the Clinton Administration, and the Bush Administration, and each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."
I know what he was trying to say, but could he have possibly found a worse way to say it? Man, it's a good thing this is April and not October, because there's a small chance (slim and none) that any Republican strategist worth his salt might decide it's old news by October.
Stoopid Dimmycrat
Enjoyably busy weekend
So good weekend, I am still cleaning up the pix for uploading so maybe tonite I will finish getting them up. [Correction, I did get up pix from Tammy's party, just no soccer or zoo pix yet]
The soccer games went well, Daniel played about as much as I expected, he started the game, played for a few minutes, then came over and rested, then he went back in for a few more minutes. Eventually he decided he was done for the day. The thing is he had fun when he was out there, which is all I can ask of a 3 year old. I just want him to have a chance to run around, maybe kick the ball a couple of times, have fun. It's a new experience for him, and I expect he will do a lot more in future sports. James did well, scored 1 goal, ran round, stopped all shots on him while in goal. Banged heads one time with one kid and had to sit down, but otherwise he had a good time.
Tammy's birthday party went well, their old friends Tracy & Angela showed up, which was nice. It gets tough in the winter when everyone hides in their houses instead of coming over for parties.
Sunday we ended up going to the zoo for the afternoon. Which was a good time, the boys really liked it. We didn't get started on the projects like I wanted but Kim wanted to take advantage of having a full weekend with the boys and do something fun. I did get the stuff to replace another section of gutters. Hopefully Manny & I can get to that next weekend.
The soccer games went well, Daniel played about as much as I expected, he started the game, played for a few minutes, then came over and rested, then he went back in for a few more minutes. Eventually he decided he was done for the day. The thing is he had fun when he was out there, which is all I can ask of a 3 year old. I just want him to have a chance to run around, maybe kick the ball a couple of times, have fun. It's a new experience for him, and I expect he will do a lot more in future sports. James did well, scored 1 goal, ran round, stopped all shots on him while in goal. Banged heads one time with one kid and had to sit down, but otherwise he had a good time.
Tammy's birthday party went well, their old friends Tracy & Angela showed up, which was nice. It gets tough in the winter when everyone hides in their houses instead of coming over for parties.
Sunday we ended up going to the zoo for the afternoon. Which was a good time, the boys really liked it. We didn't get started on the projects like I wanted but Kim wanted to take advantage of having a full weekend with the boys and do something fun. I did get the stuff to replace another section of gutters. Hopefully Manny & I can get to that next weekend.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Weekend plans
So, semi-busy weekend planned this week. Or at least very busy Saturday. Boys soccer games in the morning, Daniel first, then James. I will make sure to take lots of pix and get them up on Picasa. Then we are hosting Tammy's birthday party at our house. Which caused me to ponder this morning that the family has a lot of birthdays clumped together: Brandon, Daniel, Tammy , Parris are all grouped, then Kirk, Dave, Dan, Dennis, Dustin all grouped and then the fall clump for me, James, Emily, Dillon and Kim. Lot's of spikes in birthdays.
But Sunday we have a day of rest. Well depending on the weather it might not be too restful as we might start one of 2 projects: painting the kitchen or fixing the fence/gate by the Driveway. We bought the stuff for the kitchen a while back but did not do the work because of the pregnancy. But with the weather improving and everything we might finally get the chance to work on that. And the fence/gate really need to be fixed so we can let the kids play in the backyard without fear of them wandering into the road.
Apparently something about yesterday's post really spiked the hits on the blog, so either Tammy is really super popular or someone saw the post and tried to hack the site.
But Sunday we have a day of rest. Well depending on the weather it might not be too restful as we might start one of 2 projects: painting the kitchen or fixing the fence/gate by the Driveway. We bought the stuff for the kitchen a while back but did not do the work because of the pregnancy. But with the weather improving and everything we might finally get the chance to work on that. And the fence/gate really need to be fixed so we can let the kids play in the backyard without fear of them wandering into the road.
Apparently something about yesterday's post really spiked the hits on the blog, so either Tammy is really super popular or someone saw the post and tried to hack the site.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Happy Birthday Tammy
Happy Birthday T!
(yeah a day late, only fitting I think)
So Happy Birthday to my sister in law, baby sitter, mother to infamous 'cousins', common topic of conversation at family gatherings. She can be a gigantic pain sometimes, but we still love her, so Happy Birthday.
Monday, April 7, 2008
Daniels Birthday party and other weekend news
So we had the birthday party on Sunday, it went very well, no major trauma. Daniel had a good time and was quite pleased with his gifts. It was nice to see my niece's kids, even if I missed her. I uploaded pix this morning to my Picasa site.
Once again James impressed me with his willingness to just go his own way and do his own thing when he gets tired of dealing with his cousins, especially the older boys. He is definitely growing up and gradually learning the very hard skill of entertaining himself. And he finally is showing some interest in riding his bike. I think that this summer we will get him off the training wheels. Which will make Kim happy. It's a fine line between us as far as his being cerebral and not wanting to just run around and play, versus playing very hard. I just need to keep him balanced as best as possible.
Once again James impressed me with his willingness to just go his own way and do his own thing when he gets tired of dealing with his cousins, especially the older boys. He is definitely growing up and gradually learning the very hard skill of entertaining himself. And he finally is showing some interest in riding his bike. I think that this summer we will get him off the training wheels. Which will make Kim happy. It's a fine line between us as far as his being cerebral and not wanting to just run around and play, versus playing very hard. I just need to keep him balanced as best as possible.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Happy Birthday Daniel!
First, a Big Happy Birthday to Daniel!
Daniel is such a joy, always there with the big grin and happy demeanor. On Monday night he woke up when we got home and he gave me just the biggest grin when I tucked him back in.
So last night he had his first soccer practice and it went alright. He had fun kicking and chasing the ball around. He wasn't particularly attentive to the coach, which is not too surprising considering his age etc. I think it will be a good experience and help him get ready for school next year.
James starts practice tonight, with a new coach but 2 class mates so a good chance for him to show if he wants to play soccer or just play with his buddies. I think he will do well, but I will have to keep him focused.
Both boys games will be on Saturdays, with Daniel's games always at 10:30 and James' at 11:30. First game is Next Saturday, April 12th.
Daniel's big family birthday party is scheduled for Sunday at 2:00PM, just cake & ice cream.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Back in the Swing
So, back at work today, still recovering from the trip to Vegas. I uploaded the good pix yesterday from the trip to Picasa. There were a lot of bad shots from the Shark Reef aquarium, darn fishies just moved to fast!
Before going into further details about the trip I want to first extend some thanks to everyone who made the trip possible. First and foremost thanks to Connie for watching the kids and staying at our house over the weekend, once again another example of Super Grandma! Then more thanks to those who made her weight lighter: Dave & Tia, Dennis & Megan, Marcella, Tammy. Thanks to everyone, because while the kids were happy to see us return, they at least did not miss us so much while we were gone.
We had a great trip, lots of fun, lost some money but less than we budgeted. We got to see lots of stuff, and had a good time. I will try to capture my impressions in bullet form.
Before going into further details about the trip I want to first extend some thanks to everyone who made the trip possible. First and foremost thanks to Connie for watching the kids and staying at our house over the weekend, once again another example of Super Grandma! Then more thanks to those who made her weight lighter: Dave & Tia, Dennis & Megan, Marcella, Tammy. Thanks to everyone, because while the kids were happy to see us return, they at least did not miss us so much while we were gone.
We had a great trip, lots of fun, lost some money but less than we budgeted. We got to see lots of stuff, and had a good time. I will try to capture my impressions in bullet form.
- Las Vegas is truly an amazing one of it's kind city. It is so international now it's really amazing. You really could go anywhere and hear a multitude of foreign languages.
- And it changes so rapidly. I was last there 6 years ago, 5 for Kim. And in that time the face of the strip has changed dramatically: 2 new hotel/casino's, 2 huge new malls, 2 large vacation condo complexes, and there were empty spaces where 2 other new projects were going in. In no other city would you see that many huge projects occur in the space of just 5 years!
- The time share presentations were actually somewhat entertaining and educational. Especially the second one, where we learned a lot about the city and what is happening there. Our presenter at the second one, Frank, was very nice and not high pressure at all, he knew quite early that we were probably not going to buy and it was just a chance to tell us what was going on. If we had the funds to buy we probably would have bought from him.
- You don't really get an appreciation of the infrastructure that Vegas requires until you see it in person. The hotels are so huge, there are so many people coming in and going out. One of the fascinating things you can see from the Stratosphere tower pictures is the blocks of warehouses right next to the Strip. Which makes perfect sense when you think about the vast quantities of supplies each hotel goes through.
- We really enjoyed the show we went to: American Superstars, it was an excellent show, very high energy and all of the performers did a very good job.
- We will probably go back, not any time soon, but maybe in 3-4 years when the kids are older and there are more options for them. And hopefully are finances are better able to handle the trip.
So those are the highlighted points from the trip, although there is really so much more to talk about. But I won't bore you with the gritty details.
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