Whiskey Mind

US Politics; Us, Us, Us

2009-05-09T08:51:00.010-04:00

I see where President Obama is still choosing political expediency and personal opinion over honor and logical thought. The wealth he seeks is just for himself the a select minority of world inhabitants. The super rich of the world are killing us all and destroying the ability for anyone to even exist in this world, much less thrive and be happy. The sooner the voting public educates themelves to the fact that the miserly payout they receive from being a slave to the wealthy people of this world and the politicians owned controlled by that wealth is nothing compared to the tranquility of leaving this world knowing one's decisions were made with the intent to benefit others and as a result benefiting one's self and honoring one's ancestors with that role. Honor before wealth. Materialistic extremism is strangling the humanity out of this world.

I still ask the question about which US politicians would have helped that Russian school girl having problems with her nervousness, and how many would have used that as an opportunity to stand there and let the girl struggle. Perhaps Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin could provide another public service by authoring a book about decency and honor for the instruction of US politicians who seem lost in their understanding of those concepts.

Cleaning Home and Soul

2009-05-09T08:22:00.004-04:00

Although I wanted to release a couple of articles today, it is time to get started on the day's tasks. I have always had a philosophy of minimalism, but have not always exercised that mindset with consistency . I have a father who put all of his faith in what or who he could own or control and have seen how miserable this approach to life has made him in his final days. Not only has he lost a son, he has lost the honor that accompanies the choice of others over self. Humans are constantly tempted throughout life with the choice between self and others. Particularly important is the parental obligation to protect and nurture one's children. That is a basic standard that wild animals consistently honor and many humans consistently reject in their preference for greed.

In my desire to not become my father. I also have to find a way to survive in the world that honors my father and dishonors true charity. My personal opinion is that not human is of lesser value than myself. Though we may have different focuses and may be at different periods in our lives, I refuse any suggestion that anyone is genetically deficient, or somehow preordained to live a lowly existence.

I will try to update this line of thought and be more active on this page. Within the next few weeks I will likely be able to do that. For now, I have to move on to other priorities, priorities which iwll be explained in more detail as time permits. I believe the personal revision and improvement is no longer a choice, but the only way any of us is going to live the best life we can live. More later....

It's All Mine

2009-05-09T07:36:00.004-04:00

I have read where H.H. The Dalai Lama names ignorance as the primary obstacle to peace and happiness. I hope I am interpreting accurately, but I think I am correct in that conclusion. I don't know if greed stems from ignorance, but I see the destruction it causes in the USA and it has to stop. I have seen so many relationships destroyed without a thought because that interaction was not reaping the most financial benefit. I have seen families destroyed and ill feelings flourish as a result. This is the case with my own family. My father has lost everything of value in his greedy lust for material possessions. His folly is nothing less than a foolish waste of a lifetime of opportunity, an utter failure.

I write this article in honor of a cute Russian woman I have recently encountered. She has bright shining eyes, a smile that shines like the sun, and a sense of fairness and respect for others that I had thought was long gone from this world. It suddenly occurred to me that this was a reflection of not just her, but of her culture. I received confirmation of that belief when I read how Putin put his entire political reputation on the line to assist a nervous school girl who was struggling to honor him and her nation with a special song. Instead of standing there and letting her sink into shame and embarrassment, Putin sang along and honored himself and his nation, and his people. I am ashamed for Presient Obama and our most prominent politicians to express that I do not believe they would have deemed that as an acceptable political risk. I would also add that they would likely not know the words to such a song. Most American citiznes are too busy stealing from each other to learn patriotic songs.

That is the difference between US government focus and other polticians of the world. US politicans put themselves first, always. Policiticians like Putin are there for their nation and their people, and they do not hesitate to come to the aid of a citizen. In fact, US politicians do not even consider themselves fellow citizens of other Americans. They see themselves as an elite, genetically-superior class. The US needs polticians like Putin. Rather than trying to destroy Russia and it's culture with a McDonald's on every street corner, the US governemnt should embrace much of the Russian philiosophy and nurture a sustainable national culture, instead of worshiping wealth and greed.

Complimenting the previously mentioned qualities of that young lady were an adventurous spirit and a thoughtful mind. Don't believe a word of what you may have read about the Russian citizenry being ignorant and mostly drunk on vodka. Russia has many of the richest personalities and most intelligent people on the planet. Thus, the USA has the choice of gaining a powerful friend or provoking an enemy that could well end in disaster for the USA as a nation. It's the choice of the US citizenry regarding how long it tolerates the current behavior of its governments. It is also the choice of the US citizenry as to whether it continues to bask in ignorance like spoiled children or live in a responsible and sustainable manner, which utilizes the world's resources in a moral way.

In other words, US citizens have got to stop treating the rest of the world like it owes the US citizenry a privileged existence, or behaving like the US citizenry is somehow superior, because they have more"stuff." In fact, the US citizenry is weakened by all of their "stuff." The world belongs to everyone, and the US citizenry needs to rediscover the superior nature of the wealth of character, versus the current line of thought that the best people have the most expensive and desirable "stuff." The religion of materialism must be purged from American society, before it destroys the US nation and its inhabitants.

Will State Employees Replace National Guard?

2009-03-27T17:05:00.005-04:00

As millions of Nation Guard troops are misused and abused in foreign wars, there is a shortage of personnel to fulfill their intended role, service during US domestic emergencies. A little bird has suggested to me that state governments are quietly enlisting state employees for emergency service. If that's not a draft, I need to brush up on my definition of involuntary service. Another wrinkle that has not surfaced yet involves state employees with prior military experience. I'd be willing to bet a few brain cells that those folks are going to be assigned more than just handing out blankets and water.

Did someone burn the US Constitution when I wasn't looking?

President Obama; Two-term Wonder or One-term Blunder?

2009-03-27T16:58:00.006-04:00

President Obama has been quite a disappointment for me. He seems more than willing to continue George Bush's strategy of governing by fear. I am ready for the change, anytime President Obama is ready to deliver. I've remained silent until now, but the situation is becoming dire. Obama's condescending attitude towards advocates for decriminalizing marijuana is more than a little alarming. Again, if Obama is a Drug War advocate, where is this change we were promised?

First gym work in 6 weeks!

2009-03-22T16:30:00.004-04:00

Well, that couldn't have gone a lot better. After pushing my luck and straining my left shoulder, life appears to be getting back to normal. After 6 weeks off, I had a great return yesterday. It wasn't perfect, but I'm feeling soreness exactly where I should and it went very well, very well. Everyone thought I'd quit like many of the New Year's crowd. Nah, I'm there, good or bad. I kept trying to rush my recovery and making it worse so I just backed off completely. I was surprised that I don't feel any tweak or sharp pain with full weight on the shoulder during pushups. I was about perfect and Saturday afternoon was a great time to have the gym almost empty. It was very therapeutic to not have to hassle with people. For some reason, people think it's OK to stare in a gym. It's not. If someone is busy, don't eye f*&* them. They don't have to stare, I AM in great shape for my age, and they HAVE let themselves go.

Dropping US Consumerism

2009-03-15T09:23:00.004-04:00

I just tried to get pricing information for Comcast internet service in my area. Their attitude is to just sign up and worry about costs later, and to pay pay services you don't want for a "better" price on an internet connection. It's crazy. Corporations have destroyed our nation. All I want to see are rate plans in my area.
My decision, to drop my internet service entirely. I'll miss it, but I'll be damned if I'll keep being sucked dry. Back to reality for me. I'll use what free services I can manage to find, once my 2 year contract runs out. There is no sense or moral argument for the US government ot allow corporations to bleed customers dry. The US economy is based on criminal relationships between corrupt politicians and corporations, NOT capitalism and free competition.

Economic sanction madness has to stop; Cuba

2009-03-08T19:46:00.008-04:00

A good reminder of how cruel US foreign policy is. Economic sanctions are seen as moral and peaceful alternatives to military action. In reality, economic sanctions are pure evil. The purpose is to torture innocent citizens into rebellion against the current government, which is often supported by that the majority of that same citizenry, by starvation and making the lives of innocent men, women, and children as miserable as possible. It is barbaric. What's worse is that economic sanctions on Cuba, like other forms of torture, do not work.

No Cuban products or raw materials may enter the US US companies and foreign

Subsidiaries banned from trade with Cuba

Cuba must pay cash up front when importing US food

Ships which dock in Cuba may not dock in the US for six months

US citizens banned from spending money or receiving gifts in Cuba without special permission, in effect a travel ban

Americans with family on the island limited to one visit every three years.

Madness!!!

Mind your own business!!

2009-03-07T19:37:00.006-05:00

Americans seem to have so much leisure time that they are bored with the details of their own lives. As my nomad post describes, my strategy over the next several months will provide me with a complete retrenchment of all material possessions, and provide the ability to move several times a year with minimal effort if desired. That should give landlords something to keep them busy, other than snooping into the lives of their tenants. I relish the demise of personal wealth in America. It's corrupted the core of freedom. Once the government has lost the carrot of easy living to dangle in front of the populace, control is lost and the DNC and RNC will finally crash into history as failed efforts of corruption. We'll see. Karl Marx isn't looking so crazy anymore.

Working out the kinks; Nomad post

2009-03-07T19:25:00.006-05:00

On a personal note, I have not given up on this effort. The circumstances of the economy are requiring additional restructuring past what I anticipated. This time, I'm going completely nomad and selling everything I have over the next several months. All I'm going to have to move is maybe a bed and a desk, and a few changes of clothes.

My final strategy is to rent and own only what I can pack into a pickup truck in a few hours and be able to move it all in a single trip. If the bankers want lean and mean, they've got it. In other words, I've given up on ever owning any home or having a rooted existence and have embraced my role as a member of the impoverished nomad underclass of America. We'll see who the bankers loan money to now. They should have been more careful what they wished for. I anticipate a complete transition by July and will resume a more active role here.

Work at home insanity

2009-03-07T18:51:00.002-05:00

I see where the snake oil salesmen of the "service economy" are now trying to sell the public on the "Internet economy." They seem to think everyone will be able to type happily on their computers from home and road congestion will be a problem of the past. There's something called market saturation. It is what happens if everyone tries to buy to same stock. There's a surge, then a crashing reset to real value. There is no substitute for producing food, repairing equipment needed for life, and producing ships, generators, water filtration equipment, etc. The world needs less get rich quick schemes and promises of easy living and more nuts and bolts practicality.

Great Opportunity to Redirect US Economy; Dumping the Tourist Economy

2009-02-16T09:38:00.004-05:00

Times of turmoil and disorder are often ideal for instituting needed shifts in direction. US politicians have destroyed the economic infrastructure of the nation with their shady deals and inexplicable insistence to ship crucial US jobs to oppressed pools of cheap labor overseas. In other words, citizens are powerless and multi-national corporations are in charge and running the US into the ground with their greed and obsession with profit over purpose.

The US citizenry has got to start acting as a community and not cultural fragments all insisting on only their particular needs and desires. We all need food and shelter and jobs. We all want to be safe and not have our homes robbed. Nobody wants to be attacked physically or emotionally. Let's start there and modify the political approach of this nation.

I hear supporters of the status quo squeal about how important it is to have "experienced" leadership in the US Congress. Well, where has that "leadership" taken us in the last 30 years? I don't care if you're poor, what culture you exhibit, or your sexual preference, we all need to get on the same page before these banana republic dictator wannabes we have running this country destroy us all.

A sustainable national economy can't be based on waste. That approach is nothing more than painting oneself into a corner. I saw a recent article about the Las Vegas economy and was amazed to see the desire for people to waste money there. A healthy economy must be based on sustainability, not some crazy dream for the federal government to throw money around. Healthy and local food sources, existing shelter renovation and repair before new construction, repair before purchase on everything from vehicles to refrigerators, green technology with solar and hydroelectric, water purification and conservation and preservation. That's where the beginning is, not the same stale and broken promises for improved healthcare, education and jobs.

Free healthcare desn't mean much if one doesn't have any clean water to drink.

Bosu Trainer and home gym fitness equipment

2009-02-15T17:21:00.005-05:00

Core training would be where I'd suggest anyone start with an exercise program. I believe that one reason my joints ache is that I don't have enough muscle structure to support them. The Bosu ball costs about $129, but is worth every dime, in my opinion. The professional version is what they have in gyms and can be bought through Amazon. For my "home gym", I have that and the Gold's stability ball, a jump rope, and 2.5 lb. ankle/wrist weights...everything but the Bosu ball is from Wal-Mart. The Bosu ball and the stability ball each have instructional CDs. That's all there is too it. You don't need treadmills, steppers, weight machines or anything else to get started.

Cantor Has Got to Go

2009-02-15T17:14:00.005-05:00

The primary reason Representative Eric Cantor can not remain in a position of influence is that he provided too much support for the most extended assault on conservative values in history by a GOP-led US Congress. Change has to start with the leaders in place. It is impossible to have an improved GOP with the same faces that thrust us into torture, domestic spying and ruthless application of authoritarian domestic policy. It must not be tolerated. The GOP wants to merely pretend that none of it happened...that Boehner never got roller adn that Senator Shelby was too quiet for too long. The only consistent conservative voice among the GOP is the truly honorable Ron Paul, and the GOP, as it exists today, loves to make fun of him.

Matt Drudge's Faux Conservatism; As Soon As GOP Lost Power

2009-02-15T12:30:00.009-05:00

I must have missed all of the Matt Drudge articles blasting G.W. Bush, John Boehner, Eric Cantor and all of the other hypocrites who eagerly dug America, and the world, into a deep and dark hole over the last 8 years. World Net Daily has been MIA in that regard also. Suddenly, those GOP shills have remembered the abandoned fiscal conservatives who now often despise the GOP for its icy betrayal of principle and honor. The GOP and their hacks in the media think the GOP can be elected back into power in a year or two. I believe they will be surprised.

The big change that all of the snake oil salesmen have forgotten about is the Internet. It's harder and harder to fool the younger generation, when all they have to do is read from those of us who learned the hard way, what the younger generations will discover in 20 years or so, that the political system in the US is corrupt past repair. Most of the citizenry is more than capable of working through hard times. The main problem is a small minority of corrupt citizens. We need to remember that Bush and the GOP lost in 2008, Obama didn't win. The GOP lost because they completely betrayed all truly conservative principles. Cantor, Boehner, and most of the guilty are now promising to behave. I see now where the GOP is praising Cantor for being the only jewish GOP person in the US House of Representatives. Is that all we care about now, quotas? The GOP is supposed to praise skill and qualifications over bigotry also. Just who runs the GOP? It sure as hell isn't conservative constituents.

Taking Out the Trash; Emotional Abuse

2009-02-15T09:15:00.007-05:00

Dramatic change in one's life may come from the mere cessation of destructive behavior. Trust me, it can be much easier than the fake reality your abuser has created will allow you to believe. Their influence was so destructive that there was no other choice. What I am discovering is how as little as one month of no contact with that destructive influence has changed my life for the better. Even time away from them with minimal contact was a huge benefit. However, termination of all contact has produced immediate and shocking benefits. Negative responses from that stress were far more prevalent than I had thought. It has literally been decades since I have been this glad to be alive, and this motivated to survive. I can't recall feeling this refreshed and relaxed in 40 years. My immune system is incredibly strong, compared to a few months ago. Even physical wounds heal faster. I'm just much healthier, emotionally and physically. A trait of mine that I had completely forgotten about was how I liked to laugh and my sense of humor. I'm laughing and smiling again, a lot. It'd been so long since I had any humor or enjoyment. Everything was stifled, strictly regulated by my abusers.

A focused human spirit is a remarkable entity. It's stubbornness frustrates even the most intense attacks. There was a brief period of about 2-3 months where I had a version of Stockholm Syndrome and berated myself as disloyal and how I needed to try to return in some capacity to my previous "captors" to continue my support. Yeah, right. No more of that. *laughing*

It's incredible. I'll never go back. I have retained, despite my abusers' wishful thinking, all rights of my birth. I have some great ancestors and relatives. My abusers just made the choice to not be among them. They can't take my blood away from me. One weapon an abusive parent uses is that their blood is in your veins and you are the same as they are....another lie. Abusive parents make the choice to do what they do, just as the target can make the choice to escape.

I don't like posting personal stuff, but there could be someone reading who is still trapped. I think many are like I was, free to leave, but feeling obligated to stay. Obligated to what, being tortured for a lifetime?

GOP, Cantor Schizophrenia

2009-02-15T07:49:00.006-05:00

I was reading where the GOP is trying to sell the suggestion that US House representative Eric Cantor is a fresh voice of change. Cantor is the same man who helped lead the descent deep into war in Iraq and every other twist and turn of that rabbit hole known as "policy" of former U.S. president G.W. Bush. We heard no objections from Cantor to reports of pallets of US cash being unloaded in Iraq, no objections to no-bid contracts to GOP operatives, and no objections to the still missing $8 billion US spending on the Iraq war. Cantor blatantly ignored constituent pleas to not pass the $900 billion TARP. Let's not forget that the US Congress tacked on $200 billion in extra spending to the bank bailout in apparent retaliation for constituent objections. The TARP bailout, contrary to recent reporting was still more expensive than the current Obama bailout.

I have personally contacted Cantor's office on several occasions during the first of many bailouts of irresponsible Wall Street firms. The response from Cantor's office was to junk mail me into submission. I received as many as 6-8 identical letters regarding different concerns. I went as far as to email his office information as to exactly what was wrong with TARP, which Cantor and others now say they had no way of knowing how bankers would abuse the bailout.

To put it as politely as possible, Cantor often does not tell the truth until forced into it. It is nothing less than disgusting for someone so contrary to the character of the great James Madison to constantly infer a positive similarity. The last time I checked, James Madison and many others of that day spent much of their own money, risked death and everything they owned to create what they thought was right. To the contrary, Cantor and almost every US politician of this day hide behind lies and half-truths while the only true effort they consistently make is to get themselves re-elected to highly levels of power and influence.

Obama Madness

2009-02-14T10:45:00.006-05:00

President Obama has demonstrated that the failure of leadership in the United States involves more than just GOP politicians. The entire political machine of the US is miserably out of touch and out of control. All Obama is concerned with is the politics of being able to say what he did in the first 100 days. He's all politician and doesn't bring much hope to any but his own self interests. As citizens, we each have the responsibility to not only see to our own needs, but to educate ourselves on sustainable lifestyles for everyone.

The first solution is to admit that globalism and the exportation of jobs from industrialized nations of the western hemisphere to poor countries is not sustainable. It's not even a long term benefit to the developing country as the US can not maintain its role as strictly a consumer nation. the whole strategy is flawed and eventually disastrous.

Working it out.

2009-02-14T10:31:00.004-05:00

Although I am recovering from what I hope is a brief setback from an injury, I have begun a journey to a level of physical fitness that I have never experienced before. Frankly, the discovery and it's potential is worth the risk of injury.

My personal trainer is an energetic woman whose zest for life is contagious. Along with the toughness and discipline a personal trainer needs, my trainer is also one of the more compassionate persons I have had to pleasure to meet. She is extremely talented at her work. It is the best money I have ever spent. As far as the money, people spend more money on video games and junk food than what it cost for these sessions. It's not what you have, but how you use it, really.

H. H. the Dalai Lama: How to See Yourself As You Really Are

2009-02-06T17:32:00.013-05:00

A funny thing happened while I was getting my truck worked on today...

The whole story started last night at the gym, with me forgetting my workout sheet and having to go back after dark to get it. That sheet had all of the workout notes that I needed to do the session on my own. "Sarge", what my personal trainer jokingly calls herself from time to time, would not have been pleased if that sheet was lost. My head was spinning with endorphins and I was focusing on stretching out and staying hydrated so I would be less sore. My mind just blipped and I didn't put the sheet in my pack. It was on a table by the gym floor station. This set up the series of events that followed, and ended up marking an important re-emergence in my life. One more major step to recovery.

On the way back home, the left front tire on my truck shredded from dry rot. It was on my "to do" list, but I messed up. So, in about 5 seconds I go from being 5 minutes from home to being stranded in the dark on a twisty country road, in frigid weather. One guy turned around to make sure I was OK and had a cell phone, good man. I had nothing available for the repair, more of that "to do" list, but at least I wasn't so negligent as to not have some cash, plenty of gas for heat and a charged cell phone. If I hadn't gone back for my workout sheet, the tire would probably have not blown out at lower speed and where I had room to get off of the road. It would have also probably been light and actually harder to see my flashing hazard lights. The whole scenario would have been more risky. Controlled chaos was what I experienced.

The road service people were decent locals and I was back on the road in about an hour. The odd part was the gentle nature of the tire failure and the fact that I was almost delivered precisely to one of the very few places on that road to avoid getting rear ended on a blind curve. If I had to pick a place myself, I couldn't have done much better. That wasn't just luck. Luck is more random than that. This was an organized and sequential series of events that led to an important realization about my life direction.

At the repair shop...
Being on a Friday, the shop was swamped with work, so I spent the whole day getting two new tires for the front and getting my snow treads transferred to some original rims, and getting the spare checked. They did a good job and the price wasn't that bad. I'd gone to the place years ago, but it was under new management. They delivered what I paid for. Besides that, the shop folks were decent local people who spoke my language, small town rural Virginian. He even introduced me to his adorable daughter, about 8 and all grins safe by her father's side, at the end. It was like the old days, 30 years ago, when people could talk and trust each other a lot more, when we had a lot less government and less social experimentation in our lives.

Guess whose business cards were on the desk of the repair shop? They were from the guy who came and rescued me the night before. It's called a community, folks, remember those? Benefit one: reliable repair place that just opened and a reliable tow service that are close to home. Benefit two: emphasis on emergency preparations in my personal truck, no matter how many miles per year I put on it. Each trip was so short, I'd convince myself that the tire was OK for a little longer. What I also forgot was that I was driving a lot more back and forth to the gym.

I was waiting in the waiting room for about 2.5 hours, but I had something to read and my computer if I wanted to get online for some reason. I had snacks in the truck, so I was good to go. Being caught stupid last night, I thought the least I could do was be prepared to wait on my truck repairs. The book was How to See Yourself As You Really Are. While I was reading about love and compassion and my responsibility to set an example for the world, the boy from hell flew into the waiting room. Benefit three: always have food and water in addition to emergency food.

The little brother was about 6 and the older boy was about 8. The older boy was the anti-social one. The first thing he did was turn the radio in the waiting room up way too loud, so that it was disruptive adn left the room. He was showing me who was in charge. That's a classic mental disorder symptom, with roots in self-hate and frustration from no one providing any productive direction. In other words, nobody gave a damn and he knew it.

As the older boy and I did some light jousting wth the volume control on the radio, he came real close to taking a swing at me as he left, the smaller child played happily and the mother pretended she was exploring the surface of Mars for cotton candy, or some such thing. She sure wasn't with us here on planet Earth. I think she was on some strong medication, like Xanax.

Long story short, the mother and older boy end up frustrated and the younger fellow pulls up a plastic chair next to mine and starts showing me pictures of Mustangs and Porches. I liked that boy the second I saw him. Of course, these days, I was concerned how close he got with the way the world is. But, he kept his distance and we did all right. He had positive energy. Here I am reading a book on how negative energy finds negative energy and positive energy does likewise and it all unfolds right before my eyes. The picture of the younger boy sitting quietly next to me reading, imitating me, was too cool for words. He was seeking positive energy and completely ignoring his brother's negative behavior. Benefit four: the power of a cool head and kindness is unlimited and positive energy does yield the same.

Given that episode and the last 24 hours, something very significant is taking place. There's this balance occurring between the physical and spiritual. Though I was more like the younger brother when I was little, I also grew up with parents who didn't give a damn when they thought no one was watching. I have some of that older brother in me, still. After 40+ years, it feels really good to know that I still care and that I can still see reality and not the fabrication put forward by ignorance. The question is how I am still like this and why did those last 24 hours happen the way they did? In 24 hours ago, I went from giving up to going onward with a renewed faith.

More later on this book. I recommend it very much. Benefit five: I don't have to tell "Sarge" that I lost my homework.

A Word About Nevada Brothels

2009-02-06T12:05:00.004-05:00

I will always be supportive of some form of regulated/legalized prostitution, primarily a minimal system in place to help prevent the spread of diseases and stealing or violence against clients or providers. The working girls and customers both should be registered and regularly tested for STDs and AIDS. I include the customers because it makes no sense to me to insist that a working girl be tested weekly, but an asymptomatic or lice-ridden client can walk into the room of a "clean" worker. That's nuts. We have credit checks before credit is gven, so a health verification twice a year for a brothel customer isn't asking too much. A sound system would work like a private social club in which all parties are regulated to maintain some order and control.

Prostitutes could be certified like electricians, car mechanics, or plumbers. They could then work for any licensed business or clubs. That means they could arrange their own incall and be self employed, or they could work for someone else who takes care of security and compliance. Both situations would involve announced and unannounced regulatory inspections for cleanliness and compliance. With my system, prices would have to be posted, current video would be required. The practice of posting pictures that are 10 years old is nothing less than fraud. Also, it is unconstitutional to impose extra taxes on someone because they are engaged in a particular business.

No where in society do we permit secret pricing, punitive taxes based on occupation and the misrepresentation of a product status, except the corrupt propane and heating oil industry. The LPIN system is comparable to Wal-Mart not letting you know a price until you get to the register, then the cashier insists on a high price which you are expected to "negotiate" with frustrated customers waiting for you to make your mind up and move on. The women all talk about pricing and the customers are not allowed to or their service form the providers is terminated, so it's a rigged game from the start.

LPIN exists as it does because there is no competition. It's time for people to stop kidding themsleves into thinikng LPIN is anything but a rigged game against the customer, and that state religions must be removed from state law. I ask once more, get religion out of my government. I know it doesn't belong there and the KJV Bible, which all fundies supposedly know so well, also makes a clear distinction.

US Realty Woes; Banks Hiding Real Damage?

2009-01-30T21:23:00.005-05:00

Diana Olick writes some great articles. She's a very strong reporter for CNBC. Olick recently reported that banks are holding back on revealing the number of foreclosures they are saddled with. I have thought all along that this entire credit crisis is so huge and potentially castostrophic that no one in leadship roles has any clue where to go from here. The US version of capitalism has proven itself a dismal failure as far as I am concerned. I'm all for freedom, but anarchy is another matter entirely. The US is a rudderless ship with no captain of worth.

The moral of this story is to not buy a house anytime soon. I think the solution is going to be to try and spread out the damage to as much of the population as possible. They want people to buy homes in phases, knowing all along that there's a lot more downside to come. The sooner one buys, the more they risk. Another factor coming into play is the value of the homes on the market. It is said that foreclosed homes are often vandalized, which costs even more to repair. If someon trashes a home they no longer own, they belong in jail for 6-12 months to cool off some. If we need room for them, let the non-violent offenders off on early release. I do not consider vandalism under these circumstances to be non-violent. The situation is bad enough without spoiled adults wrecking a property in some temper tantrum, when they had no business buying beyond their ability to pay in the first place.

The Real Problem with US Economy

2009-01-30T20:53:00.004-05:00

The US politicians and their largest campaign contributors, big business, have transported most of the jobs and production overseas to where there are labor and environmental conditions that the US has outlawed within it's own borders. This provides an overwhelming competitive advantage. Globalism is code for cronies buying each other off and shafting the average citizen.

The US must refocus on domestic resources, infrastructure and production. It's sheer stupidity and manipulation to scream "isolationist" each time someone suggests that US politicians are expected to have primary allegiance to the American people and to institute sustainable policies. Cheap goods from China are not a long term solution.

Instead of empty promises, social experimentation and political correctness in education, America needs a reformed public education for its citizens. Teaching people to read, write, do math, and think critically is not that hard if the desire is their. Finland seems to manage. Put Americans first for a change in US policy, just as the French and Russians expect their own leaders to have all national interests as a top priority.

We could start by stopping the insane military build-up and the insane "war on drugs." Enough talk from politicans. It is time for positive results or the replacement of the RNC and DNC by political enitities that won't destroy the world.

Same Ol' GOP; Hiding Behind New Face

2009-01-30T17:28:00.006-05:00

It's insulting how the GOP leaders keep thinking that all they need is the right marketing gimmick and they can get back lost support. The fact of the matter is that the GOP is losing precisely for that reason, as it stands for nothing but the latest gimmick. Eric Cantor fell right into line each time G.W. Bush had a big program to fund. When the GOP thought the Cuban vote was important, speeches were given in Spanish. Cantor fell right into line for the $700 billion bailout to Wall Street millionaires who received $18 billion in bonuses this year, supposedly for doing such a great job. The GOP is not truly conservative fiscally or socially and it does not represent the best interest of most Americans, thus they have lost a significant amount of support. There is also nothing conservative about the extreme religious views of much of the current GOP base and their maniacal approach to the issue of abortion, while cheering for torture and economic sanctions that starve and inflict emotional and physical abuse on innocent men, women and children in foreign lands.

Incoming RNC Chairman Michael Steele says he's ready to knock people over. Women and children in Iraq and Lebanon and Cuba are well aware of that, Mr. Steele. The hostility and abrasiveness of you "Christians" is why millions have fled your morally-crippled party.

I'm Exhaling Too

2009-01-28T08:18:00.004-05:00

I've never been a Hillary Clinton fan, but I don't have much to complain about yet. I think she was dead on about certain "narco states". Bush and Rice had the foreign policy rubber band stretched to the breaking point. So far, Obama has done a great job with gradual, yet steady reversal of what was essentially a suicidal foreign policy of the last 8 years.

Limbaugh's Response; Regarding the Wisdom of Ignoring Him

2009-01-25T09:35:00.007-05:00

Rush Limbaugh was an integral support component of the Bush machine. I was trying to categorize Limbaugh's response to President Obama's requests that people not let Limbaugh remain an obstruction to needed reforms. Limbaugh makes his money on advertising, plain and simple. If he wants the maximum pay, he needs to keep people listening. If saving the US from ruin were his greatest calling, Limbagh has the means to retire and do that as a citizen. The fact that Limbaugh is still spewing his fare over the airwaves after having great wealth and influence is the sign that he has made his choice of whether money or public service is the most important thing in his life.

Keep Voting GOP Out of US Senate

2009-01-25T09:12:00.006-05:00

I think everyone is exhausted from the GOP double standard and obstructionism in the US Senate. They approve of the Treasury Secretary and are just messing with Obama by dragging out the confirmation process. I personally don't think Chief Justice Roberts made a mistake with the oath. He made sure Obama was linked with Calvin Coolidge and Arthur Chester as the only US presidents in history to repeat the oath of office. As far as I am concerned, the GOP has become an evil monster that must be disbanded and completely reorganized.

Done Deal!!; BushCo Finally Out of the White House

2009-01-20T17:17:00.004-05:00

The end of the most miserable presidential administration in US history. Let us hope we do not repeat that disaster, ever.

US System of Injustice

2009-01-19T19:50:00.004-05:00

I was reading the "This Day in History" feature on this page and came across the presidential pardon of a woman convicted of treason, for being Tokyo Rose. Investigating reporters found exposed that many witnesses had were liars. Gee. What'd the original investigators do, if not confirm facts. It's a damn same when reporters have to do the job some political hacks are already paid to do. The question remains as to whether the US legal system is little more than a political show production to create whatever result is desired for the next election.

It Won't be Long Now; Bush on the Way OUT!!!

2009-01-19T19:14:00.004-05:00

Let us not fully rejoice until the fumigation has officially begun, noon 01/20/09, but we are indeed close. Never in my life have I ever witnessed an individual more deserving of public disgust than George W. Bush, 43rd US president. Let us pray that the next 8 years are better than the last.

Ben Lichtenstein; Dow 12000 by March, Whaaaa???

2009-01-19T10:22:00.004-05:00

I don't know why CNBC airs some of this stuff. Ben Lichtenstein, a trader interviewed on CNBC's Squawk Box predicted a possible Dow 12000 by end of March? Is that in the same world as the $200 a barrel oil, which is now predicted by some to go to 17?

Kill the Birds?; They're Hitting Our Airplanes

2009-01-18T12:26:00.006-05:00

I had to pass on this incredibly questionable article that implies we should eradicate birds to cut down on airplane hits. Here's a marvelous idea...transform the incredibly obsolete mass transport system in the US to an efficient rail system. It might hurt at first, but using the brain is actually healthy.

Has Hillary Clinton Found Her Niche?

2009-01-18T09:56:00.006-05:00

I had to go "hmmmm" when I read about a recent statement made by Secretary of State designate Hillary Clinton. She is absolutely right. The same standard goes for the failed drug war in the US. There is not logic behind allowing government corruption when the business can be taxed and regulated as a separate entity or at the very least decriminalized to take out the big profit, allowing honest people back into government police forces.

State governments should not be allowed to hide behind failed efforts or corruption and still claim they are the solution. Clinton may have found her calling. Let us hope she does not wimp out with an apology and begging for forgiveness. However, Clinton will have difficulty in standing by her position on Afghanistan while denying that a similar situation from the demand side exists in the US government and it's prison system. The only thing the drug war has done is eliminate most US competition for hash, marijuana, ecstasy, and methamphetamine coming in through Mexican criminal syndicates and create drugs that are more dangerous and powerful than ever.

The drug war is really about preventing people form self-medicating and having to go through Big Pharma. Bottom line. Nothing about the US drug war is keeping anyone safe. It's only making certain criminal gangs and politicians and police and military very reach. Making it a felony for someone to grow a few marijuana plants without any evidence of distribution is insanity.

Tick-tock, Time Running Out on BushCo

2009-01-17T16:54:00.004-05:00

I hear Orkin is on standby to fumigate the White House and take care of the asshole infestation before Obama takes office. It is not likely that more people in the world have ever been so glad to see a US president leave the White House. No more speeches or excuses, just put the tail between the legs and get the hell out of there.

I'm still looking for Bush to pull something to get himself in the news one last time. He'll probably give Madoff a pardon or something equally outrageous that a "man" like him would enjoy doing.

Sheri's Ranch; Sheri's News Showing Some Vegas Attitude

2009-01-17T16:36:00.007-05:00

Although I have never been keen on the fact that Sheri's Ranch is owned by a former cop, if there is such a thing, someone certainly had a great idea to have some ladies of the ranch give a brothel-style news cast each week. Mia the weather girl is a real cutie. It's a great way to introduce the ladies and provide potential clients with updated information on their lady of choice. I always did think that video lineups were much more dignified for the ladies than lining them up like prize hefers in the parlor. I hope video lineups replace the more traditional, and often awkward, lineup in the parlor.

If everyone doesn't already know, this site is for adults, 18 plus years, and Sheri's site is too.

New Year Resolutions; First Six Months

2009-01-17T09:43:00.008-05:00

I actually got a start in the right direction over 5 months ago, when I finally ended a 40 year effort in personal disaster when constantly trying to salvage relationships with my parents and siblings. In the last 5 months, I have experienced kindness I didn't even realize was still possible.

Abusive people tend to influence their targets to believe that ALL people are abusive monsters, that normal is abnormal. That is not true, of course. Even in these troubling times, there is incredible kindness within many and people willing to assist without fostering new forms of manipulation for past abuse. My personal suggestion for a break from the battle is natural food stores and preparing natural food from home. It seemed logical to start with basics, a healthy body and mind. Shedding excess weight is a fast and easy way to make big gains. Yes, I said easy. An overweight person can usually shed 20 pounds in 3 months without trying that hard, especially by cutting out most meat, cheese, soft drinks, and refined sugar items. Those gains fuel the mind for more significant challenges. One word of caution is to still keep the guard up and beware of some stores which may be looking for recruits for a religion.

During the first few visits, I'd suggest making a conscious effort to not behave as one does in more aggressive settings. One quickly realizes they are in a different place, one where everyone there is taking a break, smiling and enjoying that little island of civility. It's amazing. Not all natural food stores are equal, but most are reasonably-priced and very laid back. It's just that some Bush republicans have discovered that organic and natural foods are in demand and they are trying to do to the natural foods industry what they did to the mainstream grocers and Wall Street.

Shifts can occur with grocery and other expenses to finance any adjustments. What would it be worth if someone got so depressed that they couldn't go to work? The stakes are high, especially those first 3-6 months of detoxifiction. I suggest expanding benefits of organic foods, buy what doesn't result in excessive overall expense increases, maybe being only 30%-40% organic at first. The savings of not buying beer, soda, and junk foods add up. It's all in the more efficient allocation of resources, or increase in revenues. However, it is true that food more likely to tear down your health and your life will be less expensive and may even be more familiar or seem tastier. Consumers need to realize that the taste is really just chemicals pretending to be that flavor. Given that, my taste buds have never been more alive than they are now. Sometimes something I cook taste so good and so different that I sit in the kitchen laughing like a madman, as I munch on my latest creation.

I've had good luck with natural food stores in college towns, less luck around large urban centers where people may use "natural" as more of a slogan or bait than a way of life. As far as mainstream grocers, Kroger is my favorite. Whole Foods is fine for some hard-to-find bulk goods, but tends to attract people not quite ready for a different life, and people just wanting to be trendy.

This initial strategy should work for most forms of domestic abuse, terminate abusive condition and seek nurturing interactions. I believe I will look back on this time as the most difficult, the journey into a complete unknown from 40 years of the known. Actually leaving one life for a mere promise of a better life is very difficult. One leaves friends, personal possessions, a usually pays a significant price both financially and in escaping the normal Stockholm Syndrome mentality that long-term abuse creates, similar to struggles of a witness protection program.

Trust me, the abusers will pursue a fleeing target. The process of a recovering target is almost identical to the 7 Stages of Grief. One realizes they did the right thing as they see their body healing physically and emotionally almost immediately. We often do not realize the physical toll of abuse. In so many words, abuse murders our soul and results in less quality of life over fewer years. The probability of a longer and more content life is far greater with the stress of the constant emotional turmoil delivered by abusive individuals. If I have to sacrifice or get another job to finance a better life, a life I will be pleased with living, so be it.

More later...

Alex Cockburn Scores; Whiskey Mind Still Refuses Financial Support for CP

2009-01-17T08:47:00.005-05:00

Although I have withdrawn my financial support, Alex Cockburn is still hitting grand slams over at CounterPunch. It's a shame that part of the CP fare is too often the relentless bashing of white males that only frustrates efforts towards a functional society of many diverse cultural backgrounds. Too frequently, the arousal of suspicions of the Caucasian male by CP articles contradicts the absolute failure and raw evil of racial and gender hiring quotas. Hate is hate, no matter who is steering that ship. Of course AA proponents are shouting for more throttle before a massive iceberg is struck.

In the AA system, a less competent Hispanic or female gets hired every time over 3 competent white males. The reverse is also true. The competent Hispanic is hired every time over 3 less competent white males. The mere premise of punishing white males of today for events that occurred when they weren't even born is more than horrific and its implementation robs any government body of its moral authority to govern. I have personally witnessed a very competent black female under the guidance of multiple white female morons. That black female got frustrated and quit after she had to show her boss, a supervisor of a large information systems department, how to set up a printer. Cockburn and others need to set their raw emotion aside on the Affirmative Action front and take a long hard look at its failure. With the expense and economic damage created by AA, the education systems of inner cities could be completely refurbished into a model of education for the world, and there would be true equality...makes one believe that the powers that be like think the way they are, in chaos, with AA proponents and beneficiaries supporting hypocrites and liars who promise more than they deliver.

US Congress: Pelosi has No Need for 534 Others

2009-01-17T08:23:00.004-05:00

It would seem that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the Imperial Leader of Earth (ILE), has found a way around her troubles and the frustrations associated with legisative negotiations and the limitations of the US Constitution...proclaim all legislation as an emergency measure and have your own staff write all of it. At least the citizens aren't the only ones getting the shaft from the political pirates of DC.

The Day; January 20

2009-01-15T22:44:00.003-05:00

Can we survive 4.5 days? It'd be just like President G.W. Bush to pull some major invasion or OK an Israeli airstrike on Iran minutes before he steps down. I know the type. History will judge Bush, but not the way he wants. The man is a public menace and will go down in history as such.

Start getting ready to reject Jeb Bush. He waiting for his turn to make his own mess. How did our nation become the Bushes private playground?

Anything goes for Israel; UN HQ Shelled

2009-01-15T18:31:00.005-05:00

Incredible. Makes one ask how many UN HQs Iran has shelled lately, or Cuba,or Syria or Russia, or Venezuela. How many UN personnel and aid workers has Hamas killed, compared to Israel?

"New" White House Reporters

2009-01-12T17:55:00.003-05:00

That's a new crew all right, ho-hum, same ol' water-down insiders mentality.

The new faces will be Chuck Todd (NBC), Jake Tapper (ABC), Chip Reid (CBS) and Ed Henry (CNN). Although Fox News hasn’t named a replacement for Bret Baier — who just took over “Special Report” — the betting money in Washington is on correspondent Major Garrett

How is it so acceptable for all news networks to cover the exact same stories of the day, day after day?

Bush Farewell; Just Leave

2009-01-12T17:13:00.002-05:00

The man who destroyed the GOP.

Real Estate Madness

2009-01-11T18:53:00.008-05:00

I don't know if my area is that different from others, in that home prices seem stuck on expensive. It's my assumption that desperate owners are waiting for their personal bailout. I think there is a reason that has not already occured. Home prices in my area rose about 150% in 5-6 years. A one acre building lot went from about $10,000 to $55,000. Some are still asking $69,000 for an acre building lot. If there were readjustments in prices, it's only been about 9-12% so far, of prices inflated 150% over just a few years. I heard the other day that this real estate craziness also affected farmers who had leased land to raise crops on. Greedy sellers would refuse to allow planting after previously agreeing to do so. That problem has receded somewhat, which means local agricultural businesses should have a better year. A lot of people are actually relieved that the bottom has dropped out of the real estate market. It's the get-rich-quick speculators and real estate agents dreaming of squating over gold-plated toilets who aren't so happy.

Despite what wishful Realtors have been promising for the last 3 years, I don't see those price peaks returning soon, if ever. It is completely unrealistic to price an average property at $250,000 in a rural locality with an average salary of $35,000 a year. There just aren't that many employment opportunities.

The urban sprawlers can't be allowed to force others to build infrastructure around their desires. It's not my concern if someone does not have a job where I live. It's not my obligation to pay for them to live where I do, just because they think they have that right.

If people want city jobs, they need to live where they work or near mass transportation that is already available. They have a choice, rural wages and rural living or city wages and city living. It's abundantly clear that their city jobs and rural living strategy only works if subsidized by others. Most people would consider that a parasitic relationship. I certainly do.

Republicans Suddenly Remember Fiscal Conservatives

2009-01-11T18:26:00.006-05:00

After trillions of dollars wasted in only the last 8 years and miles deep into the Bush rabbit hole of disastrous foreign and domestic policy who would really appreciate not having their life savings stolen or their children crippled by future debt, the RNC is now recalling that at least a few of their constituents are fiscal conservatives. Incredible!

I credit the political left with creating so such public pressure against war with Iran for keeping the mad dog of Israel on the leash up until now. In turn, they have prevented even more costs on the US military and support for Israel. Israel is an expensive "allie" with dubious benefits in return for that support. Whether or not Israel can be restrained from starting WWIII is another question. I don't believe they will take the chance if the American public is not on board...which I think is currently the case. If McCain had been elected, thousands of innocent Iranians would likely be dead by now and the threat of nuclear war would be that much more of a certainty.

I do not know to what extent the government of Israel's actions are supported by it's citizenry, but we need to find out. Israel is a problem. Regardless of what position one supports, the current situation between Israel and their Muslim neighbors can not be allowed to continue. The US will not be allowed to survive as a nation if it continues to allow the deaths of innocents at the hands of the Israeli Army. I shudder to think that my tax dollars are funding the destruction of innocent men, women, and children. Responding to three rockets that punched a couple of holes into some Israeli rooftops with the deaths of innocent women and children can not be allowed to stand any longer. Enough!

Israel Must Cease Strategy of Escalation

2009-01-11T12:47:00.005-05:00

The nation of Israel is losing support. I do not know if that government, or the US government, truly understands how rapidly that deterioration of support is occurring. The largest crack in that foundation comes from Israel's policy of killing hundreds in response for attacks on the nation with results that are very minor in comparison to the inflated response. No matter how failed that policy has been, Israel insists on excessive responses to every conflict. Children are dying and enough is enough. Is it really morally justified to bomb a school full of children, even if the enemy is using that school as a base for operations? Israel, in my opinion, has become the enemy of peace.

Let's even assume that Israel has is absolutely justified and Israel has a perfect record of selecting what it considers dangerous to the nation's existence and that Israel has not provoked a single attack. Is it still a sign of righteousness to wage war in the manner that Israel engages in? I can't think of a religious philosophy on the planet that condones bombing innocent children as a response to evil. At what point does the defense become worse than the evil claimed to have provoked the attack? I believe Israel passed that point many years ago.

It's time for Israel to become a true nation of peace, or for the US to withdraw all support of Israel until they do.

My Corner of Reality

2009-01-11T11:19:00.004-05:00

The past few months have been filled with economic uncertainty and charges of political corruption. Mr. Bernard Madoff was among the most trusted men in the world. Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich was recently among the closest of allies to the president-elect. Baltimore major, Shelia Dixon has been endicted on bribery and perjury charges.

I have never considered myself as the sharpest tool in the shed of thinkers. Therefore, I wonder how so many of those I once believed to be so sharp are exposed as being dull in their views. The US political situation has become unmanageable over the last 8 years, which could easily lead to the nation's crash into disorder and even dictatorial rule. Each time I have suggested widespread political corruption and mismanagement, the "sharp" minds convinced med that perhaps I was a bit cynical. I no longer accept that premise.

Decriminalize Prostitution and Abolish Nevada Brothel Monpoly

2009-01-10T19:16:00.007-05:00

Anyone know much about a Nevada brothel? How would you like to be awakened at all hours of the night to have sex, or to hear the constant sounds of sexual lust 24/7 for 3 weeks straight. The tyrants at DC need to spend what money they have wisely and forget about taxing the air we breathe. Prostitutes should be tax free, like churches and licensed like electricians for STD purposes. If it's good enough for the hypocrites who sneak into their rooms, tax exemption should apply to the ladies giving love to all of those preachers.

Unemployment Hits Main Street, Hard

2009-01-10T18:50:00.003-05:00

I was visiting with friends (work-related) at a business yesterday afternoon and 5 guys came in looking for work within 30 minutes. The guy there said he'd never seen anything like it in his time. People come in just long enough to keep their unemployment checks coming, but this seemed different. These guys coming around wanted to work. You could tell by the questions they were asking and how they were setting it up to come back and ask some more. I'm thinking both guys I knew have worked around there for 20 years or so.

My fear is that it hasn't even started yet. Once it becomes clear that the US and global government is helpless to correct the situation, we'll have a sharp bottom and a probable depression. The only thing the government has done thus far is reverse any true corrective action, and labeled it as just too painful to consider and mostly politically unwise. The politicians are killing us.

Illinois Governor Silliness

2009-01-06T20:12:00.006-05:00

I'm supposed to believe there's nothing anyone can legally do to remove Hot Rod Blagojevich. The man was indicted. While that's not a conviction, it means something in the real world. It is time for politicians to have the "rule of law" applied to them with the same zeal and ruthlessness with which the politicians apply that "rule of law" to the general citizenry. Do we have a representative democracy in the US or some version of an aristocracy?

Enough Already, Jail Bernard Madoff

2009-01-05T19:35:00.004-05:00

Here's an article that covers what I've written here earlier. First the SEC looks the other way, then the government allows the man to live in luxury while his victims are nervous wrecks, or dead. That suicide should go on Madoff's list of charges, as his actions directly resulted in a man's death.

Snapshot of Subprime Scam; Nobody's in Jail Yet

2009-01-03T16:19:00.005-05:00

Here's a Wall Street Journal story that gives some insight on just how crooked the scams were that created the current credit crisis. That woman makes more on disability and welfare than a lot of people working their butts off make. As I've said many times before, someone needs to go to jail, soon. And, no more bailouts.

New Link: Meetup.com

2009-01-03T09:48:00.001-05:00

For anyone who hasn't come across this one yet, it is a great way to find like-minded in your area.

Whiskey Mind's New Year Message

2009-01-01T11:08:00.008-05:00

My sincere hopes for a new year that restores freedom, discipline, and dignity to the human condition. As life becomes more complex, more and more people tend to project their fears and weakness to others, thus attacking that person's inner peace in an attempt to sooth their own insecurities. 2009 is my zero tolerance year for the parasites of the world.

If I had the training, I could put all of this into more professional terms, but abusers are people who can't cope with themselves or life. They are emotionally weak or abnormal in some way. It's all about fear and thoughts of inadequacy. To try and adapt to this problem, they look for people who have what they are lacking, normalcy. The idea is that the abuser tears others down to build themselves up. So, they generally seek out the kindest, least-violent and most understanding people they can find and treat them like shit.

Dedicated family members, children and romantic relationships are their favorite food, for that reason. I think this is how abusers justify their actions in their minds, by convincing themselves that they are only saving society from "weak" people. In reality, the abusers are the danger to society and disrupt the natural order.

I just wanted to say a few words in case anyone reading is under similar circumstances, or if they haven't made the move, yet. Don't be like me and suffer for 35-40 years. I think my new deadline for someone is about a week. They are waiting for their target or supply to leave, because that's the only problem they see as affecting them negatively. As long as someone sticks around, the abusers don't change. Abusive people absolutely will not believe the target is leaving until the person is gone and they don't know where. Now that I'm gone, my abusers all want to see how I am doing on a monthly basis. It's creepy, because it's like a hungry predator pushing at the front door, trying to get in and feed. I'm at the point now, where I think my next step is an attorney and the local sheriff if it continues. Changing my cell phone is not the answer. There has to be a way to get them from calling me anymore.

Despite rumors to the contrary, take it from someone who knows...life is far more satisfying alone than with one or more abusers in the mix. Sleep is better. Food tastes better and my personal interests are returning. Life is back. Solutions vary, but the important step is to get the hell out of any bad situation.

Here comes 2009. My own life is a lot brighter these days and I hope yours is too.

US Newspapers; Government Bailout?

2009-01-01T09:31:00.003-05:00

More insanity. The game with politicians now is how far will the people let them go. The myth that local newspapers prints what larger newspapers won't is more of a lie. Major newspapers have swooped in and bought many of the local papers. Our newspaper hasn't truly been local for over ten years, especially the editorial page. The current editor likes to get the locals and the transplants fighting each other in public. That's not nurturing local bonds. It destroys them.

The best way to preserve local information, is to loosen the corporate grip on the media, not to bail it out. The corporate media is in trouble because their failed business model is not supported by the citizenry. The first step would be getting the person who wants government bailouts of newspapers out of public office.

Amazing; Racism In US Senate

2008-12-31T12:17:00.005-05:00

There is no constitutional tolerance for racism in US government, period. It's called equal protection under the law, and it doesn't just apply to any particular race. In fact, there are clear federal laws against discrimination based on race or gender. The appointment for president-elect Obama's senate seat is clearly political, so let's stop pretending that it isn't. We are to believe that the two most superior choices for that seat in the entire state are black? Won't it be even more amazing if the third most qualified person for that position also happened to be black, and the fourth, and the fifth? They can count up to ten and you'll never see a white male. We used to call that racial bigotry. If the best candidate truly is black, great. However, the public can not honestly believe that the US Constitution is not being blatantly violated by unlawful appointments purely for personal gain as agreed to in smoky backroom deals?

Right Issue, Wrong Emphasis; US Prison Reform

2008-12-31T09:01:00.008-05:00

This article hits the main points of prison reform. I don't see a lot of fault with it, other than claiming more minorities in jail for drugs means discrimination has occurred. Fair or not, the minorities in the inner city gangs are far more inclined towards violence than some white guy in rural Virginia.

For the record, motorcycle clubs and certain white males have been targeted aggressively, so it's not honest or accurate to imply that non-minorities are getting away with all sorts of violations. Gun laws alone have affected many white males adversely. I have to wait 3-4 hours to get approved for a handgun purchase in Virginia, if the call back even happens that day, because of inner city minority gangs killing each other. There are countless pain-in-the-ass and unconstitutional gun and DUI laws many white males have been forced to accept, so the silliness about only minorities suffering from the overreach and hysteria against drugs is exaggerated.

Obama loves the fluffy issues with no measurable solutions, but he must address the failed "drug war" quickly. He should also issue a full federal investigation on how law enforcement seem able to combat domestic production, but unable to target imports from Mexico.

Law enforcement's assault on biker clubs and domestic methamphetamine production cuts out all competition for Mexican criminals. There are more drugs in America than ever. The prices of drugs in America are tremendously inflated due to the war on drugs. Let's see, no one allowed to grow their own, inflated prices, virtually no competition, asset forfeiture filling government coffers, narcissistic cops on ego trips, significant threats to police tyranny just happen to get busted with kiddie porn...can anyone say "widespread government corruption?"

Police and Cat In Tree; Bad Cops

2008-12-31T08:17:00.006-05:00

I was intrigued by this story about a police officer creating problems with getting a cat out of his tree. Let's not try to pretend that there isn't a significant problem with militant police and cops with attitudes in the US. A lot of this is nurtured by the federal government, asserting a power grab into state localities. The feds give local police goodies like machine guns and make them feel like Rambo. Weak-minded men like that sort of thing.

The article in the link seems fair. The neighbor with the cat was probably a little off. My criticism of the police officer is that he should have done on Saturday what public opinion forced him to do on Tuesday, recognize that the neighbor is difficult and move on. Why take hard feelings against the neighbor on the cat? Forgive my slang, but cops are cops. Cops do what they do because they enjoy backup and constant support in anything that they do. They are not the lone wolf type, though they like to pretend that the case. They know each other for miles and miles. That guy could have had 20 cops over there on Saturday, but he waited until constant phone calls to his place of work pressured a department response. Why did it take that much? The dog was kept inside for a day and the cat was up the tree for seven days.

There were no insurance issues for the cop to just call his pals from work to help him out and hold the ladder. For that matter, just hire a damn insured tree service to use a boom. If the boys in blue quit playing the power games, the public would respond with more respect and admiration.

This reminds me of an off duty cop I encountered in Richmond. He was whizzing off a ramp, going too fast to merge properly, and rolled his window down to scream at me because I would not let him in. First of all, he was supposed to slow to merge into traffic flowas needed, not the opposite. Secondly, I couldn't get over without hitting the car to my left who had me pinned in, and traffic was very heavy. The passing stream would not let me over. I had no reason to target the guy. He was in his private vehicle and no uniform showing. I think he was in civvies. If he hadn't been so intent on the Red Sea parting for Moses, he may have noticed how I was as pinned in as he was. Life's not perfect.

The guy shouts that he's a police officer and I should have gotten over. All I could hear was "I police", exact words not clear, and see him gesturing for me to move over. This si all happening at about 55 mph. He was a bit nuts. I shrugged and laughed, and shook my head at the jerk. I took an exit to get rid of the guy or at least settle it, half expecting shit-for-brains to follow me. So, I figure he went home and cried to his wife about the bad man who deserved to have bad things happen to him.

Not only was he completely wrong in his understanding of traffic law, he had poor self control and was very quick to excessively assert his position as a police officer. He was also off duty. It's not like his had his lights on and was in a police car or anything, or even on official business. Though, I could not have done anything differently if he had. By the way, I forgot to mention this was on the Interstate 95 bypass around Richmond. It's not exactly a quiet neighborhood street where a driver always has the option of changing lanes anytime he wants.

I have a lot more stories just like that. Many people have stories just like that one.

US Economy; The Ship Sinks

2008-12-30T12:18:00.004-05:00

As politicians and corporate executives try to convince the citizenry that the situation is not going to get any worse, the situation gets worse. Somehow, the powers that be keep insisting that the sham can go just a little further. It's over. You can't base a national economy solely on consumption and have dumbed-down public schools at the same time. This country isn't even producing a large volume of critical thinkers. The thinkers in public schools are pounded into the ground before they can get out of middle school, and the bully adults and children think it's hilarious. The average American driver is so stupid, that they can barely keep operate a car, and that can't do that safely.

The US is going to have to completely restructure the public school system. That means rehiring all teachers and getting rid of the dead weight, no matter what race or gender they are. The death grip the democrats and republicans have on public policy has got to end. It's become a criminal enterprise, not public service. The voting system is going to have to be reformed and uniform through out all 50 states, so we have no more stupidity like in Minnesota. Only then will there even be a starting place for recovery, I don't care how many TV sets anyone can sell.

RNC Rips Bush Bailouts?; Where Were They in September?

2008-12-30T09:23:00.010-05:00

WTF is going on with the RNC? My guess is they FINALLY get that they are no longer going to remain a political power and could well be replaced as on of two main political parties. I am sure the RNC is just flabbergasted that the citizenry is actually willing to vote them out of office on a long term basis. The very fact that they waited this long brings into question how sincere they are about anything.

They sure as hell ran the system into the ground with reckless government, excessive spending, and blind support of Israel over the last 8 years, and now the RNC is trying to make nice with its base? Get ready to be replaced, Representative Eric Cantor!!! Someone forgot to tell Cantor he is expected to actually vote for what he says at election time. I get freaking crazy with him and other "conservatives" almost defining conservative values perfectly, then voting the exact opposite... always with some excuse about saving babies or some campaign rhetoric. They always seem to have an excuse for pissing off their constituents. At what point do constituents stop being constituents and just begin being careless proponents of whatever policy "their guy" supports? Is it we the people, or we the politicians? Is the political party representing the people, or the other way around? I say it's the latter.

Voting pro-GOP is NOT the same as voting for conservative governance, and they all know that. And, as a reminder, the Israeli government and those assholes, and their supporters, are likely no more in rhythm with the Israeli general population than Bush is with most Americans. Both Israeli and American governments are being run by some whacked-out and cruel 14%, or similar portion of national population, and are extremely dangerous to world peace.

Worried about Iran? Israel with nukes should scare the hell out of anyone.

Israel; Chosen Ones or Lost Souls?

2008-12-29T11:35:00.005-05:00

There they go again, lop-sided responses. Throw a rock at Israel and they respond with tanks, soldiers and small arms fire. Fire mortars and Israel responds with all of the above and relentless air attacks. When will the world finally condemn the Israeli government as war criminals? This has got to stop, and the timing of these assaults is more than a little suspicious. Israel is going to force Obama to kiss its ass right from the start and prove his blind loyalty to the butchers of the Middle East, and this assault is his entrance exam. My patience for and support of Israel ended when they destroyed Lebanon, and murdered those UN soldiers.

The G.W. Bush Presidency; Worst Administration Ever

2008-12-29T08:53:00.003-05:00

As expected, as the worst presidential administration in US history comes to a close, the weak attempts to alter reality are in full force. What did President G.W. Bush not do wrong? For the GOP bots out there, that insane 28% who approve of this disaster, I say I am almost as strongly opposed to most democrats. One reason I have a special insight into Bush is that he's almost a carbon copy of a person I know with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. The irrational refusals to process information that may be contrary to current opinion and the obsession with categorizing everyone as either lifelong friend or lifelong enemy are dead giveaways. I've noticed that someone has put a stop to psychological profiles about Bush being made public. He's got something seriously wrong with him.

Merry Christmas to All

2008-12-25T13:00:00.003-05:00

Count your blessings and do not let the bastards grind you down. There is good in this world, if we give it a chance to manifest itself through our own action, thoughts, and dreams.

To the Gals Out There Chasing the Bad Boys

2008-12-24T12:35:00.005-05:00

I've had some experience in those circles, so I know that there's no such thing as a good bad boy.

Hell, they'll even admit to that, with pride, after they get what they want. That's what makes them bad boys. The ones not ready to ride all the way, had better stay off of that train. I still see women chasing the same type of guy they just had a nasty divorce or domestic incident with. Ladies!!!! Bad never changes. It'll keep kicking your butt, if you keep going back for more. This is my community service for today.

FYI, it's pretty hard for this young woman to recover her first choice of career. That story goes in the "what the hell was she thinking" category.

Stocks Ready to Test Bottom?

2008-12-23T23:03:00.005-05:00

I was just looking over some charts and noticed what seemed to be "fluttering" at a top of the S&P 500. More times than not, that ends in a collapse and reforming of a pattern. I notice the "experts", the same ones who didn't happen to notice Bernard Madoff was a crook, keep saying sentiment is too bearish for another leg down. How many times have they picked a bottom?

I am a touch concerned about my outlook validity, as Dr. Marc Faber believes November was a bottom. It certainly wasn't a bottom over the next year, and I don't think it'll hold for a month. We'll see.

Why Did Madoff and Family Feel So Safe?

2008-12-23T13:35:00.012-05:00

He obviously knew he did something wrong, and his family was obviously in it up to their eyeballs. What made them think they were covered to remain in the US, indefinitely? Surely, people of such means could have fled prosecution with much wealth in various accounts. It's not like nobody knows how to disappear anymore and people don't have emergency plans? I guess a Wall Street hedge fund manager has more DC friends on the payroll.

How could SEC Chairman Chris Cox just miss the two largest finacial scams in world history, mortgage derivatives scam and Madoff. He didn't. That's the answer. It makes much more sense that Cox and other "regulators" were in on it and think they have enough cover and protection not to get caught up in it. Nobody's that incompetent and naive at that level of politics.

Odd Timing; Quote of the Day

2008-12-23T10:37:00.006-05:00

When creating articles today, I had not yet read the quote of the day. It does seem that more than I have concerns of the future and respect for the past successes, the way it used to be in America. I don't have to ask if most US politicians, police, and judges follow the quote below, the answer is evident.

I would prefer even to fail with honor than to win by cheating.
Sophocles (496 BC-406 BC)

America Needs A Military Coup?

2008-12-23T10:28:00.004-05:00

What honor is there for a general who commits dishonorable acts to protect his pension? The same general will later emerge in his retirement, performing as a man of honor to criticize the corrupt system he willfully nurtured during his career. It is time for good men to act. Soon, it will be too late and America will lurch into unrecoverable chaos. After the Bush fiasco, I would think the time is right for corrective action and to send those corrupted scoundrels in federal government fleeing for the exits from power.

A Word About Living With Order and Honor

2008-12-23T06:33:00.002-05:00

I'm a young guy in historic terms, less than 50 years, so opinions may vary. My father used to love to instruct me in the pre-WWII way of life. He did a good job of that. Mostly to stroke his own ego about how much critical information he had learned in life. One has to know the rules to break them. Documentaries and authors of history filled in the gaps. The strange part about my father is that he has violated almost every line of the code of honor and conduct about which he so eloquently presented. I was saved by a strong natural intuition that helped me filter the bull from the manure. Working with cattle, odd as it may seem, has also offered valid instruction about the role of parents, community and the difference between fake and true devotion.

I have witnessed, on more than one occasion, cows butting each other around as they do with a young calf within inches. That calf does not move, does not show fear and does not question whether it will be hurt. It won't be. In addition, the baby calf hardly even acknowledges the activity. I could never figure out how the animals knew where the calf was all of the time, but they did. There's a code in there somewhere. If only human parents were so careful and reliable.

Another of many other observations involved the bull. Any human male would be more than happy to have that job and the raw power of a bull. But, that animal also has a code many humans violate. The ultimate objective of the bull is not his own pleasure or ego but the protection of the herd, especially the young. I've also seen that bull bring an entire herd over to where he was with very little effort. Look out for the bull and he does his job. Upset the bull and he gives a warning look that one remembers for a lifetime. Now, there are bulls who smash into other fields, but they don't maintain a position of honor. Those bulls get sold and butchered if they are too much trouble.

What I've tried to present here is the mess humans seem to make out of basic tasks that animals master quite easily. The first is to protect, instruct and nurture the young, and the second is that everyone obeys the same code. The third rule of cattle life is that there is only one boss of the herd and he does not abuse that privilege. Anyone who wants the job has to deserve it first.

It's not that so many humans don't know the rules, but that they just refuse to obey those rules. This is our current problem in the US. The primary reason that America has squandered so much past credibility is that the rogue "bulls" of American society have been allows to control the government and the citizen "herd". When will those Americans ever be separated from the herd and order restored?

US Government; Negative Similarities to the British of Revolutionary War Era

2008-12-21T10:49:00.009-05:00

It's easy enough to trace the endless fees, taxes, surcharges, doubletalk and degradation of individual rights, all supposedly for the public good. Every oppressive government has always claimed to represent the public good and a kind god. What reveals the truth or lie of that claim is how many citizens are in prison or prosecuted by government, and for what charge. A felony conviction is extremely easy to experience in the current US system of injustice. That should tell us something. It does.

Monet; 12/21, 12/22, 12/23

2008-12-21T10:29:00.003-05:00

The Magpie; 1869
Venice Palazzo Da Mula; 1908
Antibes, View of Salis; 1888

4 Weeks, 3 Days Until Bush Is Gone

2008-12-21T10:01:00.006-05:00

This is not coming from a rabid partisan democrat either. I used to be a solid GOP supporter in 2000. I was planning a conserative non-profit to support conservative causes. These days, I want nothing to do with anything Reaganesque or defined as conservatism.

I didn't leave the GOP, but they completely violated every ounce of trust I placed in their leadership. Congressmen such as Marsha "torture them if I can watch" Blackburn, John "they can always roll me" Boehner, Eric "the pretender" Cantor, and all the rest of those souless, morally-crippled George W. Bush enablers. They followed and chased after Bush and Vice-president Dick Cheney, to the man and woman right through the finish line. The only objections came from people, like Senator Richard Shelby, who knew the votes were there and entered objections for show. An honorable man or woman would have resigned or gone independent under a rogue such as Bush. Political devotion in the US is to party and no longer the domain of constituents, if it ever was. The US Constitution has become little more than prop used to justify government intervention and intrusion.

Unequal Protection Under the Law

2008-12-20T09:55:00.006-05:00

A prostitute in the US is treated like human garbage by police and the courts. Even the legal prostitutes in Nevada are looked upon by many as less than human and persecuted due to the nature of their business, which happens to be an unconstitutional application of religion in government policy. A biker, especially with club patches, is branded by police as a criminal and perhaps a even collector of kiddie porn.

I'll go back to my original litmus test for who's a problem for society and who isn't. I've never had a prostitute cause me a problem. They're in the people business and always have a smile and a kind word for a stranger. I've never had a biker, even one who may fit the profile of a 1%er ask for anything but to be left alone...fair enough. I'd have to go as far as saying that the authentic bikers are by far, by far, the most responsible motor vehicle operators on the roads. I'm not talking about the dangerous kids on sport bikes, buzzing in and out of traffic at 15+ over the speed limit. They're nuts and trouble waiting to happen. I don't consider them true motorcyclists, just kids with too much time and money on their hands...and underdeveloped brains.

On the other hand, various police officers stare me down daily and extend a constant shove. Politicians treat me little better than they treat prostitutes.

Bernard Madoff Belongs in Jail

2008-12-20T09:48:00.003-05:00

The man who ran a $50 billion fraud is still not in jail awaiting trial? The US system of government is behaving more like a third world dictatorship, with various degrees of justice, based on how much money and how many political connections one may have. Get caught growing a pot plant, one goes to jail and possibly gets raped or stabbed while there. Get caught running a $50 billion fraud and be rewarded with a gentle touch and all of the comforts of home. This man belongs in jail, now.

Paulson Wants Remaining Bailout Funds; $350 Billion

2008-12-20T09:33:00.007-05:00

Big surprise!!! Secretary of Treasury Henry Paulson wants the rest of the bailout funds. Although, he flat refuses to consider the concerns of his constituency, Eric Cantor and others should not dole out any more funds to this potentially corrupt administration. At the very least, the current administration is the most blundering and incompetent White House administration in the nation's history. A team of sixth graders could do a better job. Enough!! Let BushCo wither away into its legacy as the most failed US presidency in history.

Monet; 12/18, 12/19, 12/20

2008-12-19T15:27:00.005-05:00

The Road to Chailly (Le Pave de Chailly); 1865
Sunflowers; 1881
Sunset on the Seine in Winter; 1890

To Think Like A Gangster

2008-12-17T18:48:00.003-05:00

I liked this advice. I always thought it was a shame for some of the guys in the street to get busted. Some of them are very sharp in their niche and they know how to survive.

Monet; 12/16/08 and 12/17/08

2008-12-17T08:55:00.003-05:00

A Corner of the Studio; 1861
Still LifeWith Eggs; 1907

Broken Arm and Ribs, Prison for Thrown Shoes

2008-12-17T07:45:00.004-05:00

There was a time when I would think the man would have more humane treatment in US custody. That is no longer the case.

A Fitting Farewell, Shut Up and Keep Packing II; Shoes Thrown at US Jerk-in-Chief

2008-12-15T08:10:00.013-05:00

One reporter in this world with a soul. He just couldn't take it any more. President George W. Bush stands up there smirking at powerless people as Bush brags about how he represents all that is good in the world, much like a kind god. I'm sure the usual GOP monsters want the guy tortured and killed for throwing two shoes at Bush. It is unfortunate that a few others didn't have the courage to join in. Seeing Bush flee from the room among a flurry of flying shoes, as Nouri al-Maliki stands by calmly observing the scene, would have been better yet.

It is remarkable how calm Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki remained. I like what I know and see about that man. He's got the toughest job in the world, dealing with the scoundrels he's had to deal with from the US, and supporting his people at the same time.

As far as Bush waving off an attack on the guy, more US media half-truths and lies... There was no attempt to give the guy a free pass as implied. Was Bush just telling them to wait until he was in a cell to beat the crap out of the guy? The signal was not to leave him alone, but more like "not here, not now, in front of cameras." It was the boss guiding brainless henchmen.

"...A scrum of security agents descended on the man and wrestled him, first to the floor and then out of the ornate room where the press conference was taking place. The president was at no point injured and he brushed off the incident."

How's that for a Bush legacy?

"This is a gift from the Iraqis. This is the farewell kiss, you dog," the journalist shouted (in Arabic), Steven Lee Myers of The New York Times reported in a pool report to the White House press corps.

"...This is the farewell kiss, you dog." I couldn't have said it better myself.

Today's Monet; 12/15/08

2008-12-15T08:08:00.002-05:00

Sea Coast at Trouville; 1881

Message to President Bush; Shut Up and Keep Packing

2008-12-14T10:06:00.005-05:00

A Washington Post article about president Bush's sensitive side? Yeah, right. It's a bit late for that.

I'd like to address this whole GOP denial thing in a few lines. I'll deal with Nancy Pelosi and the other liars in other articles. Eric Cantor and other elected GOP officials have consistently betrayed their more libertarian and conservative constituents in favor of their own personal and political interests. It's the same with the credit and housing bubbles. The game eventually comes to an end. The Iraq invasion, state-sponsored torture, and domestic spying were the last straw for me.

That time has come for much needed political reform, including extensive voting reform. Who ever heard of the opposition being able to influence who wins a competing party's primary? The first change I'd make is for a primary vote to automatically be counted as a general election vote if that person wins the primary. The two political parties are faced with a choice. 1) Continue ripping off the public and stealing their dignity and bring it all crashing down. Steal from money markets and pension funds and people are going to react negatively. 2) Institute genuine reform and preserve the rights of your constituents.

Today's Monet; 12/14/08

2008-12-14T09:10:00.002-05:00

Fishing Boats Leaving the Harbor, Le Havre; 1874

America 2008

2008-12-13T11:24:00.007-05:00

Odd how I write an article about some issue digging into my side and a news event follows to completely validates what I wrote. I had one kid email me and call me "nuts" about nationalizing US banks. It now looks as if that may be the only means of surviving the economic mess. The latest development is a corrupt Wall Street and Bernard Madoff, no need to for CNBC to pretend like he's an exception, anyone who pays attention knows better.

So, now it's getting in the open just how corrupt it all is, the Iraq War and everything. Madoff was no unknown guy or a fluke. This guy was deeply entrenched in the system and a former Nasdaq stock chairman. He knows there's not but so much they can do to an old man. I say go after the sons. There's no way his scheme was htat big and that didn't ahve a professional concern about what was going on. I think it's time for that revolution we've all been talking about for 20 years.

Today's Monet; 12/13/08

2008-12-13T10:52:00.003-05:00

Rough Sea at Etreat; 1868-1869

Housing Bust Article; A Must Read

2008-12-12T09:55:00.007-05:00

Every so often we come across an article that puts a complicated situation in understandable terms. Dennis Cauchon, of USA Today, gets the prize for today. An article worth reading. especially for anyone who still thinks it is time to buy a home. Buyers shouldn't whine when that loan is soon underwater like so many others. I noticed that the example case was some jerk not working, for whatever reason, who already owned a home. He gambled and lost. I don't feel sorry for him. Greed does that to people.

I think the 20% estimate of further price decreases is more like 30-40% in the areas that were more heated than others, such as the DC metro area. Peter Schiff had some excellent input, as usual.

Today's Mont; 12/12/08

2008-12-12T09:40:00.004-05:00

The moment to benefit the wonders seen through Monet's eyes. His was a brilliant man.
The Pointe de la Heve at Low Tide; 1865.

Today's Monet; Two for One; 12/11/08

2008-12-11T12:10:00.002-05:00

Two paintings for today's eye candy.
The Bodmer Oak, Fontainebleau Forest; 1865
Wheatstacks (End of Summer); 1890-91

Illinois Governor AND His Chief of Staff Indicted; Big Time

2008-12-09T12:04:00.006-05:00

Check out the CNBC article for details. This is exactly what I was writing about in a recent article. Our society rejects the biker who loves the open road or the brothel worker making a living, but society praises these scrubbed-downed, staged productions that represent "normalcy", which are the first guys to trust the least. At least the people on the street are for real, and not posers.

Charges are conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and solicitation of bribery. That's serious stuff. They must have gotten greedy and asked for too much so the other crooked bastards of US "normalcy" decided to prosecute them. I wonder who gets the final bribe for Obama's seat?

Today's Monet; 12/08/08

2008-12-08T09:34:00.003-05:00

Morning on the Seine, Near Giverny; 1896

Motorcyclists Make Better Drivers

2008-12-07T22:00:00.006-05:00

For whatever reason, mid-life crisis, or whatever, I finally get it...motorcycles are in my life. As I study safe riding, I discover how unsafe most drivers of 4 plus wheels are. They can get away with driving stupid, bikers can't. Bikers can't slam on the brakes, yap on cell phones instead of concentrating on what they are doing or cut someone off in traffic, or go from 50 mph to 70 mph, and back to 50 mph in a few seconds. They can, but 9 of 10 they'll end up in the shoulder if they do. Drivers of 4 wheels know who has the advantage and are brutal with that knowledge. I can't understand anyone having so little care for another human being.

I'm not talking sports bikes. That's another story. I'm talking tour and cruising bikes. I've seen bicyclists get more respect on the road than bikers. I see why some of those guys carry hammers on their bikes. I finally get it. Sorry I was so slow on the intake. I've always cut the two wheelers slack on the road and gotten my share of waves for that and gave them space, mostly because I loved to see those things roll off into the horizon. Where I didn't get it is that I thought everyone else did the same.

Interesting WOD; Officinal

2008-12-07T21:32:00.001-05:00

Medicinal or used to relieve pain.

Today's Monet; 12/07/08

2008-12-07T20:17:00.003-05:00

Hunting Trophy; 1862

What's Wrong With American Drivers These Days?

2008-12-07T17:46:00.005-05:00

What is it with these tailgaters who just have to feel like they're pushing you off the road at 25 miles an hour into a 90 degree turn? I now understand what causes most motorcycle accidents, the idiots surrounded by 4 wheels. It's too easy to drive a four-wheeled vehicle. I don't know if they drink too much coffee or what their problem is. Then, there're the big rig drivers who seem to forget they aren't in their pick up trucks and they need more room to stop those rigs. Whew. Sometimes, I wish I was in NYC and never drive anywhere. I don't know how the motorcycle guys do it, with all of these maniacs on four or more wheels pushing everyone up hills, around corners, and into 90 degree turns at unsafe speeds. Does that behavior really get anyone anywhere faster, or do they just want to kill somebody, to have that power to snuff out a life? Law enforcement had better start revoking some driver's licenses, soon, and quit worrying so much about the guy who had one or two beers.

Today's Monet; 12/06/08

2008-12-06T09:31:00.002-05:00

Waterloo Bridge, Sunlight Effect; 1903

Today's Monet; 12/05/08

2008-12-05T10:27:00.001-05:00

Morning on the Seine; 1896

Legal Prostitution and GOP Christians

2008-12-04T10:25:00.008-05:00

I'd rather associate with the prostitutes and consider them of higher moral principle than most "Christians" who vote for the GOP. A legal prostitute has considerable motivation to be known favorably. If prostitute rips off customers or makes them feel abused, word will be on the Internet. Her pictures are everywhere and it is her business to draw people towards her. If the prostitute pleases the customer and works with them on the price, the customer leaves praising the girl and her business, and they can do it all semi-anonymously over the Internet.

On the other hand, the GOP Christian believes they are superior to anyone not beleiving as they do, and that they can ask for forgiveness with their last breath and be forgiven of all transgressions...even the most heinous of offenses. You don't have to tell me who is more likely to treat people like dirt. I already know.

Monet Today; 12/04/08

2008-12-04T08:55:00.005-05:00

Houses of Parliament (Sun Breaking Through the Fog); 1904

Mind Over Matter

2008-12-03T04:16:00.007-05:00

With a twist...
Life's very uncertain these days. I have to keep reminding myself of the little joys and what really counts. We could expand the definition of retrenchment to ideology and attitudes. A cute kid waving hello at a person in the grocery store or just flashing one of those smiles little ones are famous for. Likes a lot of people, I'll be grumping around after a hard day, all caught up in a rush to do this or that, then some kid sitting in a shopping basket will do something funny and remind me and others about the important stuff...like anytime, anyplace is a good time or place to be happy.

Today's monet; 12/03/08

2008-12-03T04:11:00.005-05:00

Impression Sunrise; Late 1873.

Monet must have been an amazng man to have that level of expression and love of people and nature in general. To this day, he shows us the wonderful moments of his life, through his eyes.