I Couldn't Agree More

From For Ellipsis

"There are many men of principle in both parties in America, but there is no party of principle."

-Alexis de Tocqueville

Dick Cheney Needs To Shut The HELL Up...

Does anyone else remember when facts counted for something? I am so sick of Dick Cheney making the claim that the Bush administration kept us safe for 7 1/2 years! The thing is... The Bush administration was in power for 8 years! They didn't keep us safe, in fact, George Bush didn't read a key intelligence report titled, "Bin Laden Determined To Attack", in August of 2001. Does anyone else remember how surprised he was when 9/11 happened? Dick Cheney, apparently, not only authorized torture, but indeed, suggested it! The Bush administration with their many crimes and misdeeds, have set the stage for Americans to be in harms way for many, many years to come.

Now, let's discuss Nancy Pelosi...

You know, I wondered why she took Impeachment off the table when she became Speaker of the House. Sigh. I have to admit, I don't want to think it's true that she might have turned her back on the fact that America was torturing detainees, but I am losing my faith in the democrats more and more. I see Obama changing his mind on key issues, and I wonder, will we ever see a day like September 10th, 2001 again? I want my faith in my country back.

They Can Melt Bars Using Only The Power Of Their Minds...

Does anyone else think its kind of silly that folks are getting all worried about the due process of political detainees in American courts? "Colorado doesn't want terrorists in their communities!" LOL. Are the republicans trying to say, that our military and our security forces are too inept to keep these people from harming us? If so, how would these possible terrorists do it? Can they melt bars using only the power of their mind? It's absurd. Guantanamo needs to close just as Obama promised, and these people need to have trials, fair ones, you know like America is famous for. I don't know about you, but I would feel perfectly safe if they transferred them to California for detention.

From Now on Your Name Is Fred...

There is a resolution, by the RNC, to ask the Democratic party to change it's name to the "Democrat Socialist Party."

ROFLMAO... Tee Heeeeee. Snicker, snort, snicker, snorttt. (Hold on, can't breathe)

Tee Hee... Roflmao! Sheesh! Just when I think the republican party can't be anymore exasperating, they make me laugh, and I love them again.

:)

They're nothing if not entertaining!

-Carly

At The End Of The Day...

From For Ellipsis

"Every time you wake up and ask yourself, "What good things am I going to do today", remember that when the sun goes down at sunset, it will take a part of your life with it."

-Indian Proverb

Torture. When it comes to a subject as serious as this, I ask you, is there really such a thing as right or left, indeed, shouldn't it be right and wrong? I do not understand how anyone, regardless of political affiliation can say, "let's just move on," when it comes to this issue. An awful lot of bad things have been done in the name of each and every American. With equally bad results. It has been proven that torturing prisoners usually results in very little, if any, solid information. The tactic of torture does NOT keep us safe, indeed, it puts us in greater danger. Have we been safe since 9/11? Well, I don't think that we can say that just because there hasn't been a day like 9/11 since then that we are safe. I think we have been lucky, but not necessarily safe. You have to remember, the enemies we have now are a patient lot. Walking around with a cocky attitude, bragging about how safe we are, will eventually comeback to bite us... BIG.

Here is what I really don't get about the Bush administration authorizing "harsh interrogations"... why? Why resort to that? Why let Osama bin Laden win in his effort to change who we are, or were? Can you just imagine the moral victory we handed him? Not only did we never bring to justice those who attacked us that day, but we have given them a solid moral victory in knowing they have divided us as a nation. Sigh. Will prosecuting the Bush administration for war crimes divide us further? I hope not. I hope that regardless of what we have all been through, we can still see and know the difference between right and wrong.

I remember when the Bush administration tried to erase the word hunger, by calling it "pantry challenged." Sheesh. It was still hunger. It didn't work. And it is my hope that changing the name of torture to enhanced interrogations, won't work either.

It's Obama's first 100 days. So far he has given me a lot of hope. He has reversed many of the Bush administrations policies, and with each reversal, I can feel another brick being lifted off of me. Hope. It's a good thing. Are things perfect? Far from it. Do I agree with everything he is doing. NOPE. But at least I can see a future again. Life is getting better. Nothing really profound happens in the first 100 days of any administration, it's what happens from now on that really matters. I just HOPE he does the right thing.

Opinions, opinions...

If you are a republican, or a democrat for that matter, feel free to chime in. If you have known me for any length of time you know I welcome opinions, even if you don't agree with my point of view. So, tell me what's on your mind. Go ahead. Don't be shy.

Opinions anyone?

-Carly

It's Going To Be A Good Day!

"As Americans, we can take enormous pride in the fact that courage has been inspired by our own struggle for freedom, by the tradition of democratic law secured by our forefathers and enshrined in our Constitution. It is a tradition that says that all men are created equal under the law and that no one is above it."

-Barack Obama

:) I think today is going to be a good day! :)

-Carly
"Inauguration 2009"
January 20th, 2009

Facing Life Without George (Rated PG - 13)

"A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman's birthday, but never remembers her age."

-Robert Frost

I have decided to tackle more then one subject in this entry. Short little vignettes, or Carly being random.

Better Than A Heating Pad!

I haven't posted in a couple days, because these cold days of January have been getting to me. My mood is good, but my arthritis is working overtime. Sigh. It's a little better right now as I write this, but I know that by this afternoon I will be sitting with the heating pad on my knee and lower back. It's not so bad, I usually get a few laughs watching the kittens at play. When Dylan first came to live with us, he was shy, and reserved, and really didn't play a lot. Hendrix was all play, so I was a bit worried about how well things were going to mesh. Now, as I type this, they are playing with the favorite box! Beautiful, growing like weeds, and brothers until the end. They make some happy noises! When they get tired, one or both come over to me, and sit on my knee. It's better then the heating pad, for both my arthritis and my soul.

And You Thought Life Would Be Boring Without Him!

Have you been following the senate race in Minnesota and the goings on regarding the senate appointment in Illinois? I am just amazed at what I have seen this election season! Although I don't know why... after all... it's politics! It seems to me that Roland Burris has a legitimate right to that senate seat. He hasn't been accused of doing anything illegal, but he is a bit of a thorn in the side of politicians who were embarrassed by the actions of Rod Blagojevich. Simply being a thorn isn't enough. Perhaps if being a thorn were enough, we could have gotten rid of George Bush without waiting for his retirement. Sheesh.

Just after the election was over last November, I kept hearing folks talk about how there was almost a bit of sadness that the whoopee cushion that was George Bush was going to be leaving the spotlight. Where would we turn for comic relief? Sarah Palin wouldn't even be around to carry on the NINCOMPOOP torch? What were we to do? I told those people, "Don't fret, we have only lost George Bush, we still have politics! We will always have politics!" And sure enough... I feel entertained this week anyway. LOL.

He's The Birthday Boy or Life With George!

Tomorrow is Alan's birthday, and I want to make it especially nice for him. This is the first year since the death of his brother, Daryl, and I know he has been missing him a lot lately. It is especially sad because they were born on the same day, 4 years apart. So it's Darryl's Birthday also. {{Weep}}. I loved that guy, and of course, so did Alan. All these feelings will be coming up again, as we approach the one year anniversary of his death. As hard as this all is, I really want to make Alan's birthday a nice one. I got him a George Foreman Next Generation Grill for his present, and I am making him a fresh cherry pie, his favorite, for dessert. After dinner we will go to the movies, with the second set of our Old Navy movie tickets. I think we are just going to take the day as it comes. It will be ok I think.

Reasons To Grill...

I have wanted to get him this grill for a long time. We like grilled foods, and it does drain a good bit of the fat and grease from the meat. I like BBQ foods, but there is so much in the news about the carcinogens from burned meat, so this little gadget seems like a good way to have that yummy flavor of grilled meat, only in a little healthier version. Also, I am afraid of fire, so I never do the BBQing, so this will be a nice way to surprise him with a big steak once in a while, especilly when there is something to celebrate. :)

Like Inauguration Day!

Alan and I are so relieved to have George Bush leaving office, we have decided to have a fancy special dinner that night... complete with champagne! I have been reading about people throwing big inauguration parties this year, in fact there seems to be more parties celebrating Obama's inauguration then there were on New Year's Eve. I suppose 2008 didn't leave folks with much to look back fondly on. A year of sorrow and loss. I am hoping that with the Inauguration will come a fresh, happy, new start. We know things will be getting worse, before it gets better, but at least we all see it coming.

Facing Life Without George

Will life be dull without George W. Bush? Perhaps. Just look at some of his quotes from times past...

"I don't know where Bin Laden is. I have no idea and I really don't care. It's not that important. It's not our priority."

-March 13, 2002

"So what?"

-George W. Bush, responding to an ABC News correspondent who pointed out that Al Qaeda wasn't a threat in Iraq until after the U.S. invaded, Dec 14th, 2008

"I'll be long gone before some smart person ever figures out what happened inside this Oval Office."

-Washington, D.C., May 12, 2008

I don't know about you, but I am looking forward to George Bush leaving Washington on January 20th. I can believe the damage that was done to America while he was president. I breaks my heart to think about the way he changed America, and the wedge he managed to drive between us. I don't know if Obama will be able to fix a lot of what's happened, but I still believe it might just be our best chance. And just think... it will all be getting much, much worse, before it gets better. That's a profound thought. Sigh.

We'll Always Have Rod Blagojevich

Oh well, Sarah Palin is the gift that keeps on giving, and we have Al Franken now as a senator from Minnesota, and in a pinch, we will always have Rod Blagojevich. The republican party seems a bit amused with that whole mess, and you know what? So am I! The appointment of Roland Burris to Barack Obama's senate seat was one last FUCK YOU for the road. It's the stuff of a bad paperback political thriller. LOL. I, for one, am eternally grateful for the amusement. GO ROD, GO ROD! And good luck Mr. Burris.

-Carly
"I Love You Deerly"
Christmas Fantasy In The Woods
Berkeley, California
December, 2008
Afternoon

Yes We Can... And Yes We Did!

"If you are walking down the right path, and you are willing to keep walking, eventually you will make progress."

-Barack Obama

Say hello to the future, and what a bright one it has the potential to be! Now it's time to roll up our sleeves, and get to work! Hopefully, we will remember to be patient. We didn't get into this mess overnight, and we won't emerge from it overnight either, but we will emerge. And we will be great again! Doesn't it feel amazing to have HOPE back once again?

-Carly

With One Week To Go; I Can Haz Vote!

"Bad politicians are sent to Washington by good people who don't vote."

-William E. Simon

I Can Has Vote!

Can you believe there is only one more week to go until we choose a new president? It has seemed like it has taken forever to get to this point, and who would have figured we would end up with the exact choices we have? I have already cast my vote, I almost always vote by absentee ballot. It's just nice to be able to sit in my own home, relax, and maybe do a little praying as I mark my choices. It is a comfortable way to vote, but it isn't as exciting as going to the polls early in the morning on voting day. Alan, on the other hand, prefers to vote in person on Election Day. To each his own I suppose. I guess it really doesn't matter how you vote, as long as you vote! Right?

So tell me, will you be voting this year? If so, will you vote in person or by absentee ballot? Do you live in a state that votes early? If so, have you already voted?

-Carly
"I Can Haz Vote"
Berkeley, California
October 28th 2008
Afternoon

To Drill Or Not To Drill

"For 200 years we've been conquering Nature. Now we are beating it to death."

-Tom McMillian

Offshore oil drilling. First John McCain was against it, now he is for it. At one time Barack Obama was against it, now he is for it. Isn't it funny how the lines blur when a vote is at stake? Damn the truth and the environment, lets give the people what they want. Fools.

Now, I will admit up front I am completely partial when it comes to the subject of offshore drilling. I am now and forever against it in any form. I am a California girl, through and through, and I love, and at times, live for the natural beauty of the California coastline. Have you see it for yourself, other then in pictures? The beauty of the Pacific ocean, in itself is a little like glimpsing Heaven I expect. Add to it the sea birds, wildflowers and the shoreline and it beccomes heaven on earth, at least to me. I can't imagine my life without it.

In November of 2007, we in the Bay Area got a wake-up call, when the containment ship, the Costco Busan struck the Bay Bridge, which resulted in a whole in the side of the ship and the emptying of 58,000 gallons of dirty oil into the San Francisco Bay. Four days after the spill occurred, I took a ride along the shoreline in Berkeley, Emeryville, and Point Richmond. As I walked along the water's edge, I could see the sheen in the water, and large clumps of crude oil as it came to rest on the sand and rocks.

I waited for weeks, as shoreline, after shoreline was closed due to the contaminate, and I followed along on the news as it reported on the deaths of sea birds and other marine creatures, which had either ingested the oil or in some cases completely covered in it. The environmental impact was significant. Not only did the spill harm the natural life of the bay, but it took money from the pockets of crab fisherman, who were now banned from their occupation, due to the toxin that was now in the bay. And that was the result of a 58,000 gallon spill.

I have done my research, and I am sorry, but it simply isn't the answer to the problem. If the ban on drilling in protected areas was lifted tomorrow, we wouldn't see any lower gas prices for at least 19 years. 10 years! But that isn't what politicians would have you believe. Recent polls indicate that more and more Americans would be open to the idea of offshore drilling, if it would show us all some relief at the gas pump. The plain truth is... it won't. It's a fact.

But what would happen if we vote for offshore drilling would do is give Obama and McCain the power to make it look good. To make it appear as if they were doing everything they could to break us free from these outrageous gas prices. Everything except maybe, possibly, holding the oil companies responsible for their record windfall gains. It's a fact the oil prices have been artificially driven up in recent months by everything from our relationships in the middle east, to Bush's inability to deal with Saudi Arabia with any backbone what-so-ever, and market speculation. What needs to happen is we need to hold the oil companies, and the politicians that pander to them accountable.

There I said it, how about some good old fashioned accountability? Remember that? Sure you do. Think real hard. That is that thing that forced Bill Clinton to take responsibility for the blow job heard round the world. Since that time accountability has been forgotten, but it can come around again, if you and I refuse to be taken in by all the election year noise. That's right accountability can be the new "got away with it" if we send a clear message, and then mean it, that we are finished with "promise you anything" politics. I don't know about you, but I am damned tired of this crap. I am tired of the band-aids America puts on its problems. It is what has led us to where we are right now. Willing to once again, take the short cut, if it will bring us anything resembling relief. There is a gun to our head, and we are willing to let them pull the trigger, as long as the pain stops. But that's just my opinion, so, now I want to hear from you.

Opinions, Opinions...

Why does America continue to subsidize big oil companies? Are you in favor of offshore drilling? What do you believe is our best course for relief from these outrageous gas prices? What would your plan be? Do you believe that technology has made offshore drilling safe enough for the environment? Where do your concerns lie?

Interesting Reading On The Subject...

Subsidizing Big Oil (Union of Concerned Scientists)

Worth The Risk? ( USA Today )

The Facts About Offshore Drilling (Jay Bookman, Atlanta Journal Constitution)

-OndineMonet

Photo Series Taken In November 2007

Aftermath of the Cosco Busan spill in San Francisco Bay

Emeryville, Berkeley, Point Richmond, California

Surreal Moments

"Tough times are there so you can have a good time later on and really appreciate it."

-Unknown

Saying Thank You...

First of all, I want to tell everyone I am sorry for the delay in thanking all of you for the many comments and emails I have received. I want to say an especially big thank you to Connie, who authors the blog, "Thoughts On My Life And Other Mindless Chatter," and her readers, who have been especially supportive to me in the last 48 hours. Connie has been my good friend, through good times and bad, for so long, I can't even remember when we first met, but I do know that she was brightening my life when I was still in the early days of AOL Journals.

I also want to thank Steven and Karen for their continued support. They have also been with me since the wee old days, and their friendship means a lot to me. As you probably know, they are also my teammates for the Round Robin Challenges. Things are so up in the air for me right now, it is good to know that both of them are willing to fill in for me should I have to go offline. Giving up the Internet as a whole won't particularly devastate me, what will be sad is the loss of creativity I see all around me. The RR Challenges mean a lot to me, it is a project I hold very dear as I have watched it grow and blossom over time. It might sound silly, but I really do look forward to every other Saturday, and what the Robins will come up with next. I have given them the go ahead to replace me, if need be. I don't expect them to pull up my slack indefinitely, and I will be much happier knowing it's in good hands. One less thing to worry about.

Options...

Dr. B was all set to give Elvis his chemotherapy the other day, when we got a call telling us that Elvis's blood level was not where it should be. That is a normal occurrence with chemotherapy, sometimes the chemo is done every 3 weeks, and sometimes it is every 4. In this case, Elvis will be, more then likely, be able to have his chemo next week, which probably buys us another week or so with him. We are literally taking things on a week by week basis. The best news for right now is that he isn't in any pain, no facial distortions are taking place and because of the additional medication Dr. B gave him the other day he is sounding a lot better, and is able to purr again. I can actually hear him purr. It's music to my ears. Lovely music. So, with some fingers crossed, I might have as much as 3 more weeks with him. The miracles continue to happen, thanks to a lot of prayers from some really special people. Including Dr. B.

Dr. B is an extraordinary man. He has done everything, just everything he could possibly do to make it all easier. He has counselled us, and told us everything we needed to know upfront. He has cut corners for us, and then cut even more corners for us. So much so that really he should be made a saint. Truly. He is so good to Elvis. I know, I know, he is a veterinarian, so why wouldn't he be? Well, to be honest, I have met one or two vets over the years who really shouldn't have chosen that as their life's work. Dr. B was born to be a veterinarian. We have that important agreement still in place, the one that says it is now time to say goodbye. He will tell us when it is time, but something he said one time leaves me with some hope... "We won't lose this cat to time or money." So there's hope.

What About The Budget?...

As of this morning, the executive order had not been signed. It may take place later today. If and when it happens, I will post a special entry to let everyone know what's going on. Back during the Wilson administration, there was a budget fiasco which resulted in Alan working for no pay, while the politicians duked it out. He was eventually paid his salary, but let me tell you, working for no pay was a difficult time for us. At that time we had some money saved, so we rode it out, but I can only imagine what it was like for folks with children to feed.

Alan and I know several people who have no idea what to do. Gas prices at an all time high, and little mouths to feed at $6.55 per hour. So while things are dire for us, please also consider the folks who have children and elderly to care for. Also disturbing to me is the vendors who haven't been paid since July 1st. The Sacramento Bee has one such story about the, Superior Produce Company, which supplies fresh fruit and vegetables to the California Prison system. Fresh fruit and vegetables are a necessity to life, not a luxury, so to deny it is in my opinion a crime in itself. The men and women in the California prison system could use your prayers and good thoughts as well.

Get A Room...

I am damn tired of the latest political bantering of John McCain and Barack Obama. Shut up. Deal with real issues. As things stand right now, I don't see myself voting for my democratic nominee, and you already know that for me, John McCain was NEVER an option, although I was willing to listen. No more. Barack Obama has all but lost me. It's really likely that I won't vote this coming November. And before you say that if I don't vote, I can't complain. Yes I can. Freedom of Speech gives me the right to complain. I will not vote for the lessor of two evils. I will give it another month, or until I am forced to leave the Internet before I decide what I will do in November. Barack Obama is on my sidebar for now, but there is a good chance he won't be their for long. Hey guys, GET A ROOM!

Well, that's about it for now. Stay tuned. Things are getting interesting!

-OndineMonet
"Surreal Moments"
Palace Of Fine Arts
San Francisco, California
Spring, 2008

In About 100 Days Or So...

"Politics, it seems to me, for years, or all too long, has been concerned with right or left, instead of right or wrong."

-Richard Armour

Can you believe that we are finally down to the last 100 days of the race to the White House? It has seemed at times, that time was standing still and we really weren't moving forward at all. Things will be picking up speed now, and if you haven't really been paying attention all this time, or if you were paying attention, but decided to give yourself a break from all the endless political fussing, well now is the time to start listening again. It is your future after all, but more importantly, it's my future as well!

Let's face it, about this time, every four years, we Americans get a little selfish with our decision making. When we step into those tidy little voting booths or sit down to cast our absentee ballots, we put ourselves first. Which candidate will serve me best? There's nothing wrong with that, it is your future, and mine, and the guy next to me. LOL. That would be Alan. LOL. But don't think for a moment, that he and I have always agreed on a political candidate over the years, not at all, as you probably know, he was a republican when I met him. I take credit for helping him see the light, lol, but he will tell you he wised up all on his own. Well, yeah, that's partially true, but I think we have both changed our minds about certain things over the years, as we matured in our relationship. I think it's one of the best things about us as a couple, we can still talk to each other intelligently after nearly 18 years of marriage!

The other day, Alan and I were commiserating with each other about how we would take back the vote, we both cast, for Arnold Schwarzenegger for governor. The change of heart came with the last straw either one of us could handle regarding politics either nationally or for the state of California. That straw being that Schwarzenegger has proposed cutting the pay of over 200,000 state workers, in order to balance the budget. Can you imagine trying to take care of your family on $6.35 an hour? And that is not the end of the fun, colleges and universities will be affected as well, and there will be layoffs and hiring freezes in place when all is said and done. What's particularly despicably about the governor's plan is the fact that California's state minimum wage is $8.00 an hour!

California was one of the hardest hit states in the mortgage meltdown. Stockton, leads the list nationally, with the most foreclosures, and the figures continue to rise. I find it insulting that both candidates, McCain, and Obama are have nothing to say, about Governor's Schwarzenegger's threat. I know, I know, Obama was in Europe and Iraq last week, demonstrating his foreign affairs prowess, and McCain was ready with the jabs, about how inept Obama apparently is, and how if we vote for Obama, all hell will break loose. Wake up McCain... ALL HELL HAS BROKEN LOOSE! Now what are we ( you and I) going to do about it?

Well, I can tell you one thing, a vote for McCain would be like cutting our own collective throats. Tell me, do you really need another object lesson when it comes to the way republicans do things? Bush sat back, and nearly bankrupt this nation fighting a war that had no merit. A war based on, if you believe it, faulty intelligence. A year ago, most Americans considered the war in Iraq to be their number one concern, today, it's the economy. My gawd... how convenient for the republican party, that we are concerned mostly about our own pocket books. Go figure. Sometimes the war seems a million miles away at times... doesn't it? Can you believe that there are still folks who hold steady the belief that Saddam Hussein had something to do with the events of 9/11? Every time I hear that, I shake my head and wonder who these people are, and then I remember, they are the ones who have admitted they will be voting for John McCain.

I have to admit, I am not sure what my biggest concern is right now. I know that if Schwarzenegger has his way, and he cuts the pay to state workers, it will affect this state in all kinds of negative ways, that it doesn't really matter if you are a state worker or not. Foreclosure rates will take on a whole new momentum. Again education will be affected to the core, and we won't even discuss morale. Every single industry will be affected. One month of that kind of oppression would be devastating, but Schwarzenegger is poised to do just that, as early as tomorrow morning. State treasurer, John Chiang has said that he will override the governor and cut the checks at the usual pay, but that will be a fight that will be hard to fight. I appreciate the gesture, but I don't count on it.

One thing is for sure, this close to November, the state of California will be keeping this move in mind when voting for a presidential candidate. At the same time, it might serve McCain and Obama to watch what happens with California very closely, and be standing ready to address the possible catastrophe waiting to happen. I am really tired of the two of them playing to each other, and forgetting about what we hold dear. I will be watching both candidates, but I won't be holding my breath waiting for a political solution.


State Workers Upset Over Proposed Pay Cut (ABC 7)

Governor's Pay Cuts Could Affect Colleges (ABC 7)

Correction: The federal minimum wage is $6.55 per hour.

-OndineMonet

Let Me Know When You Are Done Holding Your Breath

"We must stop thinking of the individual and start thinking about what is best for society."

-Hillary Clinton

Certain ideas escape me. In a recent poll here in the Bay Area, a staggering number of supporters of both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama said that if their candidate failed to win the nomination, they would then most certainly cast their vote for John McCain. HUH? Are you kidding me? You would vote for another 8 years of business as usual, because you didn't get your way? I suppose if you don't mind eventually paying $10.00 a gallon for gas, and the failing economy doesn't concern you, and it's ok that we have now passed the grim statistic of 4000 American soldiers killed in Iraq, with no end to the conflict in sight, you could be quite satisfied with voting in John MCCain. But wouldn't it make more sense to maybe expand your horizons a bit and maybe consider what life would be like with the other democrat in office?

I am supporting Hillary Clinton for president. I really believe she is the best hope for America, but if she doesn't win the nomination, I will have a choice to make. Vote for Obama, vote for McCain or not voting at all. I don't like missing my chance to vote, so it is highly likely I will vote for Obama, if I truly believe he is what will be best for this country. I like John McCain as a man, but I can't get behind his approach to things, such as his lack of interest in the problems with the housing market. His views on Iraq are nothing more then business as usual, and, well, you can pretty much figure out how I feel about the rest of the issues. I am a democrat, so for the most part, I disagree with how he would handle most issues.

I could simply not vote a all. Again, not my first choice. It is a perfectly valid choice if one has zero faith in the candidates who are running. Not voting makes a loud statement. It's so funny, I have always heard that if you don't vote, you can't complain. Well, yes I can. It's called freedom of speech. Nowhere does it say I have to divulge whether or not I voted, but somehow that seems a little lazy to me. While not voting might say, "I don't believe in the candidates," it also says, "I'm too lazy to do any homework on the other candidates, so who cares?" There is just a lose/lose in that way of doing things I think.

So, if Hillary Clinton isn't nominated, what's a girl to do? Well, since she already knows things will be close, she decides to get to know Obama better. She begins listening to statements and speeches and maybe even visits his web site to know more about the man. She already knows why she is hoping Clinton will make it to the White House, so, is there room to include the other guy in what she hopes for? Can she reconcile the mistrust she feels right now? Who knows? One thing is for sure, if she doesn't even try to find the ray of hope in the other guy, she dooms herself to being dissatisfied for a long time. After all, the vote we cast in November had better set the stage for the next 8 years and beyond. It will take at least that long to fix what George Bush, Dick Cheney and their band of cronies have done to us. Let the Republicans hold their breath, and turn blue until they get their way. We have work to do.

Hillary Clinton For President

Barack Obama For President

John McCain For President

Have some fun! Take the ABC News Match O Matic Quiz to see who your presidential candidate should be.

I scored Mike Gravel, Dennis Kucinch, and Ron Paul.

Take the quiz and tell me what you came up with!

-OndineMonet

True Colors

"The greatest way to live with honor in the world, is to be what we pretend to be."

-Socrates

"What is uttered from the heart alone, will win the hearts of others to your own."

-Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

I like this man. Since last week, when he assumed the office of the governor of New York, a lot of personal information has come to light regarding his behavior both while in office and prior. Among the revelations are admissions of extra marital affairs by both he and his wife, and the use of illegal drugs some 25 years ago or so. Isn't it refreshing to have that kind of "bite me" honesty? I don't know if he has any plans to run for president in the future, but based on what I have seen so far, I would definitely like to see more from him.

I was going to write a blip last week, about what I felt was a careless remark made my Barack Obama. It was disappointing to hear him give such a passionate speech about racism in America, which really did seem as if it came from the heart, only to turn around and lump "most white folks" into a rather disparaging category. Yes, I was offended. I understand what he is saying about African Americans of a certain age, not being able to let go of the hurt and the pain they have had to endure, but I also look at the wisdom of one of my favorite poets, Dr. Maya Angelou, who channeled most of her pain, both personal and social, into creativity, rather then bitterness.

If you have been reading me for any length of time, you know I am not a racist. You know how I believe that anytime, we in America, waste a chance to experience talent, I consider it a tragic loss. So, hear the assumption in Obama's statement that "most white folk" have a particular racist attitude was disheartening. Now on reflection, I know what he is referring to, but I don't think it was well said. Sigh. To be honest, I am also a little disheartened that we are still having this conversation in this country. You would have thought by now, we would have moved a little further with things. That the color of one's skin wouldn't even be a consideration. But no. I suppose that is still back in that idyllic world I keep hoping I will wake up to find.

Of course in that world, Jeb Bartlett is president. LOL. I still miss the NBC show, West Wing. I loved that show, because it gave me hope. I always hoped Bush would maybe be sitting, with a bowl of killer pretzels, flipping channels as most me do, when all of a sudden he would come across that great show, and maybe, I don't know, get a clue! LOL.Unfortunately, George Bush goes to bed at 9:00 PM and it aired at 10:00 PM. It was a little bit passed his bedtime. LOL. Speaking of Bush, wouldn't it have been nice if he had admitted his alcohol use a little sooner then he did?I think I could have respected that in him. I could have respected him for admitting any one of the colossal mistakes he has made. Why is it such a terrible thing to admit one's mistakes? It makes us refreshingly human. Doesn't it?

Hillary Clinton has apparently stuck her foot in it. Yes, I can even call it straight, when the candidate I support missteps. It appears she may have exaggerated details about her trip to Bosnia in 1996. The point that she made the trip at all seems to be somewhat lost in the details. Did she do good on that trip? Did she misrepresent America? Does it matter? The focus is now on her arrival, not so much on what she might have accomplished. I am sure Barack Obama knows what that feels like. Folks focusing on your misspoken words as opposed to what you may or may not have accomplished. I can respect that she is now admitting that she misspoke. She is admitting that her account was less then accurate. Again, what's not to respect about that?

Politics is such a dirty business, but so is honesty and so is lying. That doesn't really leave much else... does it? Overall, I think I might like to have that honesty thing I keep hearing about. At least with that, you pretty much know where you stand. The only problem, however, is having the courage to ask the question you don't necessarily want to ask, and then the backbone to be able to accept the answer you might have wished you never heard.

"If you truly want honesty, don't ask questions you don't really want the answer to."

-Proverb

Clinton Red-Faced Over Bosnia Trip

Barack Obama Tries To Explain That 'Good People' Still Hold Racial Stereotypes

-OndineMonet

Raspberry Reaction

"An election is coming. Universal peace is declared and the foxes have a sincere interest in prolonging the lives of the poultry."

-T.S. Eliot

This is such a shame. I expected more from Barack Obama then to see him look us all, but most pointedly Ohio and Texas, in the eye and lie. And lie he did. Although you might see the word "misleading" most often as opposed to lie... as if that makes a real difference. Barack Obama is leading Hillary Clinton according to most polls, and if she doesn't take both Ohio and Texas in the upcoming primaries her bid will be effectively over, so why do you suppose Obama is resorting to not just kicking his opponent when she is down, but also resorting to "taking a page out of Karl Rove's play book?"

I don't like what I see in this man. I don't think personal charisma is enough of a reason to vote for him. I don't want fantasy, I want reality. I don't want promises, I want truth and a solid future. I have heard folks say they are voting for him because he has "charm," because he is a "brother," because he represents "change," although that one makes me laugh because he and Hillary basically stand for the same thing... so what's the difference? You tell me.

It's true that Hillary Clinton has sent out some mailers that were "questionable" as well. Let's face it... they all do... unfortunately that won't be changing anytime soon, but I think there was just something about seeing him rationalize his lies last night on TV that just turned my stomach. He reminds me of Bush Jr. more and more everyday. Sigh. I guess it's apparent that Republicans aren't the only ones who are willing to drink the Kool-Aid when it is served up on nice charming platter. "Change You Can Believe In?" Or is the just more of the same?

Obama Mailings 'False'? (FactCheck.org)

(If your interested in reading the truth about Hillary Clinton's Health Care Plan)

-OndineMonet

Snow Days

"All of us who are concerned for peace and triumph of reason and justice must be keenly aware how small an influence reason and honest good will exert upon events in the political field."

-Albert Einstein

Tomorrow is the New Hampshire Primary, do you know where your candidate is in the polls? After the debate last Saturday night, I am more sure then ever in the merits of John Edwards, but I must say, Hillary Clinton continues to impress me, and earn my respect as well. Obama, by contrast, is losing me more and more every day. I just don't have a strong enough faith in his abilities, to see him earn the nomination and to be eventually be president. I think he talks a very good game about change, but he really doesn't get down to specifics. I think Edwards and Clinton are much more clear and decisive on what their plans are if they are elected president.

I haven't completely closed my mind to Obama, because there is good chance he will win the nomination, and I want to believe in whoever is chosen on the democratic ticket, but I have to say, right now, he isn't someone I believe in. Just being a democrat is not enough. Hopefully, the next president of the United States will be a democrat, and so my vote will be reflecting the person I want to see in office for the next 8 years. I would like to have the same kind of faith in the next person I vote for, as I did for Bill Clinton in the 90's or Al Gore, in 2000. I wish I knew right now who the running mates of the candidates will be, because to me, it's just as important as who will be president. There is a lot to consider here.

Oh well, the California Primary isn't until February 5th. I still have some time to visit some websites and do some reading. As I mentioned before, Alan is planning on voting for Hillary Clinton, while I am still in favor of John Edwards, so we have had some really interesting conversations lately. So, while the New Hampshire Primary is happening tomorrow, I will be on my way to the snow to do my first new photos of 2008. The southern Sierra got a good dusting of snow from the last storms, and there is another strong system on the way. Hopefully I will be able to get some nice winter photos, and I am looking forward to the long car ride with Alan as well. Alan good for my moods, as well as my blood sugar. :) He's the best part of my future, well, he and Elvis. :)

Note: I will be gone very late tomorrow, so I won't have a Tuesday post, but look for me on Wednesday! I'll be back with new photos! :)

-OndineMonet
"Decision 2008"
Berkeley, California
Winter, 2008
Early Evening