Well, the results from the Reimer Family Challenge for April are in. Total savings by cutting our eating out: $133.72 for the month of April.
That's really not bad and we did eat out just a few times during the month. It's not as much as I would have expected but still not an insignificant sum. Of course, I'm sure there are other ways to save on our grocery bills as well but I haven't really found them yet. Typically, there are no coupons for the things we purchase. But, whenever possible, I will try to use coupons for things like shampoos, pharmacy items, etc..
So, it was a successful challenge! The May challenge will simply be trying to stay within our monthly budget! We'll see how that goes!
If anyone has any creative ideas of how to earn extra cash towards our debt retirement, I would love to hear it!!
Shalom Out!
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Sunday, April 25, 2010
The Biggest Loser
Recently, a co-worker and I had a somewhat heated debate about the T.V. program, "The Biggest Loser". Let me start by saying that I like this co-worker very much and there were no hard feelings after this discussion (at least not that I was aware of). For the sake of this post and to protect the innocent, I will call my co-worker Betty.
Betty is a big fan of "The Biggest Loser". She said she watches it every week. I, on the other hand, never watch this show because I feel this show only perpetuates the cycle of hatred against the overweight.
Betty said she finds this show to be "inspiring", "uplifting" and it helps her to reach her own weight loss goals. She said when she watches this show it helps her to "go a little longer on the treadmill or workout a little harder". Mind you, Betty does not have a problem with her weight. I'm guessing she weighs about 130lbs at about 5'5" tall. That's pretty "normal" to me.
In response to Betty's comments, I said, "I think anyone who watches that show only wants to make fun of fat people". Perhaps I could have said this differently.
At this point, Betty was really mad but trying to mask it. She rose up to defend this joke of a television show by saying, "That's not true!" "That show is an inspiration to overweight people and I do not watch that show to make fun of anyone!, Betty said. In Betty's defense, she was correct about at least part of what I said. I made a broad reaching statement that is not accurate of everyone who watches that show. I truly believe that Betty's intentions are nothing but what she says they are. Of course, I am overweight, as a majority of our population is, and I find nothing at all "inspirational" about that show.
At this point, other co-workers are getting involved in the debate and Betty is clearly very upset. I explained that this show is only popular because making fun of and vilification of the overweight is one of the last forms of socially acceptable discrimination. (Note that I said, socially acceptable. I am under no illusions that racism in this country is dead. In fact, since Obama was put in office, it's at a fever pitch but that's a whole other blog post!). After some back and forth comments on this issue, Betty got up from the table and left.
When I thought about this later, I realized what I really intended to say was that this show is only on the air because, as a society, it's okay for us to make fun of fat people. It's okay to mask the secret ridicule as "being helpful". It's okay for us to do this because it's almost universally expected that we will make fun of fat people because "it's okay". Question. On this show, typically the participants will work out for hours a day with trainers screaming in their faces and participate in inane "challenges". At the end of a day like this, they go to their shared residence only to find a huge (and I mean huge) pile of cupcakes to tempt them. Is this what true "caring" or "inspiration" is like? No, it's a game. I realize that the winner will take home a huge pile of money as well. Our dirty little secret is that we really want them to eat the cupcakes. What little piggie wont' be able to resist?
I think we have to examine why a show like this is even on the air. What made the producers/creators of this show feel this would be successful? After all, they don't put shows on the air that they know or think will fail, right? Ask yourself this question. If this show were called "The Biggest Gainer" and showed anorexic people trying to gain weight, would it be as popular? No, because somehow we can feel empathy for the anorexic person. They are somehow worthy of our sympathies.
What about "The Biggest Alcoholic" or the "The Biggest Drughead"? Would that draw huge audiences? I can just see it now. "Let's see which junkie falls off the wagon tonight folks!!". Would this show draw huge audiences each week? I don't think so because these people suffer from a "disease" and an "addiction". Oh yeah, and they're probably not fat either!
Why can't fat people be worthy too? People are overweight for a myriad of reasons. Psychological issues, medical issues, bad habits ingrained from childhood and our culture of cheap fast food (which is VERY addictive but again, that's another whole blog post). Why can't we accept that fat people are suffering from a disease and addiction as well? We cannot accept this because we will not accept this. Society says that we should all be the "ideal" of thin and beautiful. We are all fighting so hard to fit this mold that we will do anything to make ourselves feel better when we know we aren't meeting the standard (which no one can meet). We will vilify the overweight to feel better about our own individual position on the "ideal" scale. Someone being fatter than me ultimately makes me feel better about myself.
In 2006, the CDC reports that 67% of adults, 20 years and older, were obese or overweight. I don't deny that this is a serious health crisis. I realize that weighing less can mean a longer, healthier life. I have lived the statistics almost every day of my 41 years. I see the hatred and stereotyping first hand. Just last week a partner in our law firm was talking about another person and made the comment, "He was ugly. Not just ugly but FAT ugly!!". What a shallow, mindless individual. If you haven't lived this day to day, you may think nothing of that comment. Not me. It told me volumes about the type of person she really is. (Not that I didn't know already).
We need to let go of our preconceived notions about the overweight and obese. We are actually hard workers, good friends, fun to be around and also, if you gain weight because we are you are our friends, well that's actually your fault, not ours. (Yes, there was actually a study that said the friends of overweight people tended to eat more than others. So I guess we get to be responsible for the everyone's weight, not just our own!) We're real people with real feelings just like everyone else.
So, what can we do? Well first, stop teaching your kids to hate. By that I mean, stop showing them that you hate yourself because of your body and thereby teaching them the same things. This only perpetuates the cycle. When they dislike their own bodies, their fear of being overweight may naturally show itself in the form of being one more person who thinks, "everybody makes fun of fat people!". Stop buying into the societal pressure to be an unrealistic "ideal". Stop supporting designers (the fashion world in general) that think it's okay to tell us we need to look like a 12 year old boy! Quite frankly, feminists everywhere should be pissed off mad about this subject but I don't see this is a big issue with the N.O.W. Where are you N.O.W??? And, when you see someone who is overweight, I want you to think to yourself, that's a person. A person just like me. It would be nice if you could see an overweight person and think nothing at all but I know that's too much to ask.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not telling you that I have mastered all of these things myself. But, I do think about them and I think the world needs to see a different perspective on shows like this. Ask why. Why would a show like this exist?
Ultimately, until we all decide to accept one another with all of our imperfections, we will all remain "The Biggest Losers"...
Betty is a big fan of "The Biggest Loser". She said she watches it every week. I, on the other hand, never watch this show because I feel this show only perpetuates the cycle of hatred against the overweight.
Betty said she finds this show to be "inspiring", "uplifting" and it helps her to reach her own weight loss goals. She said when she watches this show it helps her to "go a little longer on the treadmill or workout a little harder". Mind you, Betty does not have a problem with her weight. I'm guessing she weighs about 130lbs at about 5'5" tall. That's pretty "normal" to me.
In response to Betty's comments, I said, "I think anyone who watches that show only wants to make fun of fat people". Perhaps I could have said this differently.
At this point, Betty was really mad but trying to mask it. She rose up to defend this joke of a television show by saying, "That's not true!" "That show is an inspiration to overweight people and I do not watch that show to make fun of anyone!, Betty said. In Betty's defense, she was correct about at least part of what I said. I made a broad reaching statement that is not accurate of everyone who watches that show. I truly believe that Betty's intentions are nothing but what she says they are. Of course, I am overweight, as a majority of our population is, and I find nothing at all "inspirational" about that show.
At this point, other co-workers are getting involved in the debate and Betty is clearly very upset. I explained that this show is only popular because making fun of and vilification of the overweight is one of the last forms of socially acceptable discrimination. (Note that I said, socially acceptable. I am under no illusions that racism in this country is dead. In fact, since Obama was put in office, it's at a fever pitch but that's a whole other blog post!). After some back and forth comments on this issue, Betty got up from the table and left.
When I thought about this later, I realized what I really intended to say was that this show is only on the air because, as a society, it's okay for us to make fun of fat people. It's okay to mask the secret ridicule as "being helpful". It's okay for us to do this because it's almost universally expected that we will make fun of fat people because "it's okay". Question. On this show, typically the participants will work out for hours a day with trainers screaming in their faces and participate in inane "challenges". At the end of a day like this, they go to their shared residence only to find a huge (and I mean huge) pile of cupcakes to tempt them. Is this what true "caring" or "inspiration" is like? No, it's a game. I realize that the winner will take home a huge pile of money as well. Our dirty little secret is that we really want them to eat the cupcakes. What little piggie wont' be able to resist?
I think we have to examine why a show like this is even on the air. What made the producers/creators of this show feel this would be successful? After all, they don't put shows on the air that they know or think will fail, right? Ask yourself this question. If this show were called "The Biggest Gainer" and showed anorexic people trying to gain weight, would it be as popular? No, because somehow we can feel empathy for the anorexic person. They are somehow worthy of our sympathies.
What about "The Biggest Alcoholic" or the "The Biggest Drughead"? Would that draw huge audiences? I can just see it now. "Let's see which junkie falls off the wagon tonight folks!!". Would this show draw huge audiences each week? I don't think so because these people suffer from a "disease" and an "addiction". Oh yeah, and they're probably not fat either!
Why can't fat people be worthy too? People are overweight for a myriad of reasons. Psychological issues, medical issues, bad habits ingrained from childhood and our culture of cheap fast food (which is VERY addictive but again, that's another whole blog post). Why can't we accept that fat people are suffering from a disease and addiction as well? We cannot accept this because we will not accept this. Society says that we should all be the "ideal" of thin and beautiful. We are all fighting so hard to fit this mold that we will do anything to make ourselves feel better when we know we aren't meeting the standard (which no one can meet). We will vilify the overweight to feel better about our own individual position on the "ideal" scale. Someone being fatter than me ultimately makes me feel better about myself.
In 2006, the CDC reports that 67% of adults, 20 years and older, were obese or overweight. I don't deny that this is a serious health crisis. I realize that weighing less can mean a longer, healthier life. I have lived the statistics almost every day of my 41 years. I see the hatred and stereotyping first hand. Just last week a partner in our law firm was talking about another person and made the comment, "He was ugly. Not just ugly but FAT ugly!!". What a shallow, mindless individual. If you haven't lived this day to day, you may think nothing of that comment. Not me. It told me volumes about the type of person she really is. (Not that I didn't know already).
We need to let go of our preconceived notions about the overweight and obese. We are actually hard workers, good friends, fun to be around and also, if you gain weight because we are you are our friends, well that's actually your fault, not ours. (Yes, there was actually a study that said the friends of overweight people tended to eat more than others. So I guess we get to be responsible for the everyone's weight, not just our own!) We're real people with real feelings just like everyone else.
So, what can we do? Well first, stop teaching your kids to hate. By that I mean, stop showing them that you hate yourself because of your body and thereby teaching them the same things. This only perpetuates the cycle. When they dislike their own bodies, their fear of being overweight may naturally show itself in the form of being one more person who thinks, "everybody makes fun of fat people!". Stop buying into the societal pressure to be an unrealistic "ideal". Stop supporting designers (the fashion world in general) that think it's okay to tell us we need to look like a 12 year old boy! Quite frankly, feminists everywhere should be pissed off mad about this subject but I don't see this is a big issue with the N.O.W. Where are you N.O.W??? And, when you see someone who is overweight, I want you to think to yourself, that's a person. A person just like me. It would be nice if you could see an overweight person and think nothing at all but I know that's too much to ask.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not telling you that I have mastered all of these things myself. But, I do think about them and I think the world needs to see a different perspective on shows like this. Ask why. Why would a show like this exist?
Ultimately, until we all decide to accept one another with all of our imperfections, we will all remain "The Biggest Losers"...
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
21 Days and Counting...
I did intend to update the blog more often this month! It's been a crazy month! My math class is killing me and we've just had tons going on...
So, an update to the Reimer Family April Challenge. We've done pretty good! We have eaten out twice (two lunches on the weekend) and my Boo had to eat out two days because he was at school working on his thesis. It's hard to pack a lunch in those circumstances. I think I have eaten out for lunch with the girls at work one day so far. That is pretty good for us!
It's been a bigger challenge than I imagined. It's not just about eating at home. It's the planning, shopping, cooking at home and then the clean up afterwards. It's very time consuming! One thing I have noticed is that we seem to eat out of boxes a lot. That bothers me but the challenge this month was to just eat at home. If this proves to be a success then maybe we can move on to eating less processed food and more real food.
So, 9 days to go and we will tally up the receipts and see if this little experiment really saved us some cash! For now...
Shalom Out!!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Already Wanna Jump Ship
Yes, it's day 2 and I already want to jump ship and eat out. When you drive by a "Taco Bell" and think, "hum...that sounds good", you know it's bad!
Yesterday, day one, was not so bad. We were at work and the boss brought in a nice pizza/salad lunch for all of us. We didn't pay for it so it didn't count as "eating out" for us. Yesterday, my Boo and I both decided to get sick so last night we were both feeling bad enough that dinner really was no big deal. Today, I felt better but my Boo is still running a fever and not feeling good. He has slept a lot today and of course, I've been dreaming about eating out. I even got a little fussy this afternoon at the thought of trying to decide what to make for dinner and then having to clean up after making it! I think I literally whined about it. I have to remember that this is also how it was when I first gave up sodas. Well, I was actually in tears by day 2 on that one but whatever, it was bad!
So, I eventually sucked it up and made something at home! I think weekends will be the hardest time for us. That's when we normally eat out and it's the time when I'm busy catching up on all the things I don't have time for during the week which means I don't have time to cook either. Work and School keeps me running during the week so my weekends are precious time to me and I don't want to spend it in the kitchen (any more than I already do keeping it clean)! So, it will be a challenge to prioritize my time and try to make the time to eat at home.
Well, tomorrow is Day 3. 28 more days to go!
Yesterday, day one, was not so bad. We were at work and the boss brought in a nice pizza/salad lunch for all of us. We didn't pay for it so it didn't count as "eating out" for us. Yesterday, my Boo and I both decided to get sick so last night we were both feeling bad enough that dinner really was no big deal. Today, I felt better but my Boo is still running a fever and not feeling good. He has slept a lot today and of course, I've been dreaming about eating out. I even got a little fussy this afternoon at the thought of trying to decide what to make for dinner and then having to clean up after making it! I think I literally whined about it. I have to remember that this is also how it was when I first gave up sodas. Well, I was actually in tears by day 2 on that one but whatever, it was bad!
So, I eventually sucked it up and made something at home! I think weekends will be the hardest time for us. That's when we normally eat out and it's the time when I'm busy catching up on all the things I don't have time for during the week which means I don't have time to cook either. Work and School keeps me running during the week so my weekends are precious time to me and I don't want to spend it in the kitchen (any more than I already do keeping it clean)! So, it will be a challenge to prioritize my time and try to make the time to eat at home.
Well, tomorrow is Day 3. 28 more days to go!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Reimer Family Challenge - April
I've been saying for years that I needed to give up my beloved Diet Cokes. One friend has told me for years that Cokes (and most soda pop in general) are the "cigarette of the future". One day all will be known and Coca-Cola will have to admit (after revealing documents are found) that they knew how bad all the chemicals were for you and huge settlements will ensue. While we can't be certain that will happen, I do know that the host of chemicals and myriad of grody things in these drinks cannot possibly good for you. So, at the start of Lent this year, some of my work friends asked me to join them in giving up something in honor of Christ during Lent. Even today, I'm not certain what made me take up this challenge but I did and ultimately I'm glad. As of tomorrow, I will have gone approximately six weeks without Diet Cokes (or any sodas) and my other crutch, artificial sweeteners. I've come to believe through my own research that artificial sweeteners can't be good for you either. I must give kudos to my Boo who gave these up with me to be supportive! Sweet hubby...
Spurned on by my apparent ability to get past my Diet Coke and artificial sweetener addictions, I decided to try a few more things and see how they go. Don't get me wrong, my Diet Coke addiction is a day to day thing. I can't believe how much I can still crave them but it has gotten somewhat better.
So, after this recent success and watching the documentary "Food Inc." I've been inspired to challenge our little family of two to several small, monthly changes centered around eating and food to see if we truly can overhaul our eating habits and lifestyles. For once in my life, this is NOT, I repeat NOT going to be about losing a certain amount of weight or fitting in to a certain size. That is nothing more than perpetuating the cycle of weight loss/weight gain/self hatred and buying into the societal nonsense that says we all have to be stick thin and a size 2 to be accepted. Accept me or don't, I will never be a size 2. (That is a a whole other blog post!).
The April challenge is very simple. We are going to see if we can eat at home for every meal for the entire 30 days of April. For now, I don't care what we eat as long as we eat it at home. If my Boo wants a Totino's pizza during this challenge, have at it!
There are certain variables that I will allow for in the challenge such as:
1. A meal out with family members as Sunday after church lunches do sometimes happen.
2. Certain events (usually work related) where eating out is part of the deal.
The April challenge is meant to answer a few questions:
1. Can we really eat at home for 30 days straight?
2. Can we really save money by eating at home?
3. Do we notice any health differences by simply eating at home? (Good or Bad).
I will be blogging during this process so check back during the month to see how it's going! So, The challenge starts Thursday! Wish us luck!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
In Honor Of Palin...
In honor of the release of Sarah Palin's new book entitled, "Going Rogue", I would like to offer the definition of "rogue" provided by dictionary.com:
–noun
| 1. | a dishonest, knavish person; scoundrel. |
| 2. | a playfully mischievous person; scamp: The youngest boys are little rogues. |
| 3. | a tramp or vagabond. |
| 4. | a rogue elephant or other animal of similar disposition. |
| 5. | Biology. a usually inferior organism, esp. a plant, varying markedly from the normal. |
–verb (used without object)
| 6. | to live or act as a rogue. |
–verb (used with object)
| 7. | to cheat. |
| 8. | to uproot or destroy (plants, etc., that do not conform to a desired standard). |
| 9. | to perform this operation upon: to rogue a field. |
–adjective
| 10. | (of an animal) having an abnormally savage or unpredictable disposition, as a rogue elephant. |
| 11. | no longer obedient, belonging, or accepted and hence not controllable or answerable; deviating, renegade: a rogue cop; a rogue union local. |
Origin:
1555–65; appar. short for obs. roger begging vagabond, orig. cant word
1555–65; appar. short for obs. roger begging vagabond, orig. cant word
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source
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Link To rogueSunday, October 25, 2009
Ramblings...
Wow, I haven't posted in ages! I often have the thought, "I should blog about this" or "This is SO blogworthy" but then time slips away and I never get around to it. Work, the house, and everything else leaves me little time these days...
So, in honor of waking up at 7:45am on a Sunday, here's a few ramblings for you:
First, I love "Twilight". Darn it, I can't help it.
I got "bitten", if you will, by the vampire bug. I'm even listening to the soundtrack now, which has a some cool songs on it. It's funny I love the movie, but hated the book the first time I tried reading it. Spurred on by my new bug of the vampire virus, I'm going to try to read it again. I'm completely stoked about seeing "New Moon" next month as well. What can I say? I never really grew out of these things...
My Boo and I went to see Mary Poppins this past week. I won tickets on Facebook by being the first person to correctly define "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious". (Sp???). We walked in and the first thing my Boo said was "I didn't think there would be this many kids here!". Well, it was Mary Poppins we decided. All the little people aside, it was a really cute show with cool sets, colorful costumes and fun songs. My advice, if you go see this show, don't sit too close to the stage. We were able to see the wires and other things that would have been hidden if we were not so close. Even seeing the wires, it was amazing some of the things they did. At one point, the character Bert, walks up one side of the stage (the wall), across the top, tap dances upside down and walks back down the other side of the stage. Even seeing the wire, I was still amazed that someone could do that. I still haven't figured out how they made her fly over the audience but it was very fun. If you have a chance to see it while it's here, I would recommend it.
Work. Well, work is good some days and not so good other days. I do enjoy most of the people I work with (Boo especially) but I have these moments when I think, "What in the hell am I doing here?!?". I hate that feeling. I know many people who are just fine taking a little time to "coast" in life. I'm not one of those people. It bothers me to think that I'm in a job where I will not learn anything new, never move up or really make any difference to anyone. That's pretty much how I'm feeling at this point. The hard part is deciding what purpose it can serve me. Of course, it helps pay my bills right now but long term, what is the point of this job? Is it time to look around, perhaps dip my big toe in the mortgage waters again? Or, is it time to stay here and go back to school part time until it's time to go to school full time and see this position as a "means to an end"? I haven't quite figured it out yet but I need to make a decision quickly. I think the attorney I work with will be a partner soon and that means he won't just be somewhat of an arse but a complete arse! If I have a goal in my mind, that will help me keep my comments silent rather than out loud...
There are many things political that I want to blog about and catch up on but I need to gather my thoughts and put something together that will actually make sense!
More later, for now....Shalom Out!
So, in honor of waking up at 7:45am on a Sunday, here's a few ramblings for you:
First, I love "Twilight". Darn it, I can't help it.
I got "bitten", if you will, by the vampire bug. I'm even listening to the soundtrack now, which has a some cool songs on it. It's funny I love the movie, but hated the book the first time I tried reading it. Spurred on by my new bug of the vampire virus, I'm going to try to read it again. I'm completely stoked about seeing "New Moon" next month as well. What can I say? I never really grew out of these things...My Boo and I went to see Mary Poppins this past week. I won tickets on Facebook by being the first person to correctly define "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious". (Sp???). We walked in and the first thing my Boo said was "I didn't think there would be this many kids here!". Well, it was Mary Poppins we decided. All the little people aside, it was a really cute show with cool sets, colorful costumes and fun songs. My advice, if you go see this show, don't sit too close to the stage. We were able to see the wires and other things that would have been hidden if we were not so close. Even seeing the wires, it was amazing some of the things they did. At one point, the character Bert, walks up one side of the stage (the wall), across the top, tap dances upside down and walks back down the other side of the stage. Even seeing the wire, I was still amazed that someone could do that. I still haven't figured out how they made her fly over the audience but it was very fun. If you have a chance to see it while it's here, I would recommend it.
Work. Well, work is good some days and not so good other days. I do enjoy most of the people I work with (Boo especially) but I have these moments when I think, "What in the hell am I doing here?!?". I hate that feeling. I know many people who are just fine taking a little time to "coast" in life. I'm not one of those people. It bothers me to think that I'm in a job where I will not learn anything new, never move up or really make any difference to anyone. That's pretty much how I'm feeling at this point. The hard part is deciding what purpose it can serve me. Of course, it helps pay my bills right now but long term, what is the point of this job? Is it time to look around, perhaps dip my big toe in the mortgage waters again? Or, is it time to stay here and go back to school part time until it's time to go to school full time and see this position as a "means to an end"? I haven't quite figured it out yet but I need to make a decision quickly. I think the attorney I work with will be a partner soon and that means he won't just be somewhat of an arse but a complete arse! If I have a goal in my mind, that will help me keep my comments silent rather than out loud...
There are many things political that I want to blog about and catch up on but I need to gather my thoughts and put something together that will actually make sense!
More later, for now....Shalom Out!
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
For All Those Going to the "TEA Party"...
Please read this little commentary by Paul Begala at CNN.com.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Miscellaneous Updates and Ramblings...
Well, this is a totally random list of postings but here goes:
First, WE ARE MOVING BACK TO CIVILIZATION!! Woo-Hoo! We have the inspection on the house we are buying on Wednesday, so provided that everything goes well, we are moving the first of March. I can't wait!! We spent a little bit more than what we wanted to but in the end it's a good thing. I love the house and the neighborhood and that's important since my Boo has threatened to make me live there the next 75 years.
Along that same line, we actually got to meet the seller of our house this past weekend. I made the Boo drive me by since I realized I had not actually seen it in daylight hours! We were talking with some friends who already live in this hood and I noticed that people were at our house! I deceided to stroll down and introduce myself. Turns out, I got to meet the seller, Delores, her daughter Gwen (who had an Obama/Biden sticker on her car!) and the listing agent Geneva. Delores looks to be in her late seventies and is moving to an assisted living center in Kirby/59 area. She was a completely delightful person and she is the original owner of our house. She has lived there for over 30 years. She took us around the house and shared some of her memories from the house and her husband (who passed away about 18 years ago). She even remembers dealing with the builder when they were buying the house and what items were upgrades! She tried to sell us her dining room table and hutch! I'm tempted to buy them just so a little piece of her can stay in the house. Meeting her made me feel even better about our home choice. I enjoyed talking with her so much and I hope that she will be as happy in her new home and she was in the old one.
Second, I'm so ticked off about Allstate insurance. It's a long story but they have given me some completely ridiculous quotes for homeowners insurance and flood insurance for our house. I think the Insurance industry, second only to credit card companies, are the biggest scam artists in this country (and probably the world). You buy insurance for several reasons:
1. Because you have to.
2. To protect yourself, your family and posessions against different perils.
3. Because you have to.
Here's what you get in return:
1. A complete lack of customer service.
2. If you actually make a claim they either (a) drop you or (b) make your premiums so huge that you have no choice but to drop them. Damned if you do or damned if you don't!
3. Companies that make the rules up as they go along.
4. Make up rules to NOT pay claims as they see fit.
5. Use poor credit scores to hypothesize that you will make claims-completely ridiculous! They are completely credit score driven and give no thought whatsoever to the reason a person may have a low credit score. Our scores are very high and we're still getting the run around about high premiums!
It is a complete scam. Again, aside from credit card companies, the insurance industry desperately needs further regulation by the Federal government. Not State government, but we need new FEDERAL laws that put these jokers in line. State laws just mean they move to another state to abide by softer rules. Notice that these companies are not asking for bailout money! Know why? They don't have to! They are incredibly profitable. They are profit making machines! I have nothing against a company making a profit but when you do it at the expense of your insured policy holders, that's criminal. I hope this industry gets the major reforms it deserves right up the wahzoo!
Shalom Out!!
First, WE ARE MOVING BACK TO CIVILIZATION!! Woo-Hoo! We have the inspection on the house we are buying on Wednesday, so provided that everything goes well, we are moving the first of March. I can't wait!! We spent a little bit more than what we wanted to but in the end it's a good thing. I love the house and the neighborhood and that's important since my Boo has threatened to make me live there the next 75 years.
Along that same line, we actually got to meet the seller of our house this past weekend. I made the Boo drive me by since I realized I had not actually seen it in daylight hours! We were talking with some friends who already live in this hood and I noticed that people were at our house! I deceided to stroll down and introduce myself. Turns out, I got to meet the seller, Delores, her daughter Gwen (who had an Obama/Biden sticker on her car!) and the listing agent Geneva. Delores looks to be in her late seventies and is moving to an assisted living center in Kirby/59 area. She was a completely delightful person and she is the original owner of our house. She has lived there for over 30 years. She took us around the house and shared some of her memories from the house and her husband (who passed away about 18 years ago). She even remembers dealing with the builder when they were buying the house and what items were upgrades! She tried to sell us her dining room table and hutch! I'm tempted to buy them just so a little piece of her can stay in the house. Meeting her made me feel even better about our home choice. I enjoyed talking with her so much and I hope that she will be as happy in her new home and she was in the old one.
Second, I'm so ticked off about Allstate insurance. It's a long story but they have given me some completely ridiculous quotes for homeowners insurance and flood insurance for our house. I think the Insurance industry, second only to credit card companies, are the biggest scam artists in this country (and probably the world). You buy insurance for several reasons:
1. Because you have to.
2. To protect yourself, your family and posessions against different perils.
3. Because you have to.
Here's what you get in return:
1. A complete lack of customer service.
2. If you actually make a claim they either (a) drop you or (b) make your premiums so huge that you have no choice but to drop them. Damned if you do or damned if you don't!
3. Companies that make the rules up as they go along.
4. Make up rules to NOT pay claims as they see fit.
5. Use poor credit scores to hypothesize that you will make claims-completely ridiculous! They are completely credit score driven and give no thought whatsoever to the reason a person may have a low credit score. Our scores are very high and we're still getting the run around about high premiums!
It is a complete scam. Again, aside from credit card companies, the insurance industry desperately needs further regulation by the Federal government. Not State government, but we need new FEDERAL laws that put these jokers in line. State laws just mean they move to another state to abide by softer rules. Notice that these companies are not asking for bailout money! Know why? They don't have to! They are incredibly profitable. They are profit making machines! I have nothing against a company making a profit but when you do it at the expense of your insured policy holders, that's criminal. I hope this industry gets the major reforms it deserves right up the wahzoo!
Shalom Out!!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Holy Cow Batman!!
What is up with Christian Bale? It seems he's a hot tempered little thing! First, just before the release of The Dark Knight last year, he gets arrested for beating up on his Mom and sisters. Now, he's cussing out people on the movie sets. Give me a break. Dude, you need a serious reality check. I like you Christian but tone down the "star" attitude, please! You get paid mucho dollars for pretending to be someone else. You really should be more laid back for a guy with such an easy job! More importantly, you will never make the exempt list like this...
Listen below, but be warned...the "F" bomb is dropped A LOT...
Listen below, but be warned...the "F" bomb is dropped A LOT...
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Obama's Speech - My Favorite Part
From President Obama's Speech:
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our
safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely
imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a
charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the
world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other
peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to
the small village where my father was born: Know that America is a friend of
each nation and every man, woman and child who seeks a future of peace and
dignity, and that we are ready to lead once more.
Recall that earlier
generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks,
but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our
power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please.
Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security
emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering
qualities of humility and restraint.
Inauguration Day or Oh Happy Day!!
I'm so happy today. I've been waiting for this day for a long time. In thinking about this day, I saw a post from an acquaintance of ours that said, "I'm clinging to this scripture today"...
Romans 13:1-2
1Every (A)person is to be in (B)subjection to the governing authorities For (C)there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.
I think she's probably not in favor of Obama but I thought it very ironic that I could claim that scripture as well, for the last eight years.
I wish President Obama the peace of Christ and wisdom! Everyone has very high expectations.
Romans 13:1-2
1Every (A)person is to be in (B)subjection to the governing authorities For (C)there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.
2Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.
I think she's probably not in favor of Obama but I thought it very ironic that I could claim that scripture as well, for the last eight years.
I wish President Obama the peace of Christ and wisdom! Everyone has very high expectations.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Wow...
It's been a long time since I've blogged! I guess I could give a little update. Our holidays were great. We spent Christmas in Dallas with my family and then it was up to Kansas to visit with the hubby's relatives. Then, over the first weekend of January, we had Christmas with the hubby's immediate family back in Houston. Lots of fun was had by all. Since the first of the year, we have been looking for houses. Those of you who read my Boo's blog know that whole story. I have another house that I found this weekend. I really like it but I'm going to make a pretty low offer on this one too (we're in a recession dang it!!) and try to get a good deal out of this guy. Even my "low" offer is still above the average square foot price for the neighborhood but he has done some very nice improvements. (As long as the walls aren't leaking!!) But, after 15 years of the mortgage business and underwriting, I know one thing. Cost is NOT value. If you put $15,000 of improvements in your house, your value does not increase $15,000. It's not a dollar for dollar thing even with something major like a swimming pool, etc. We'll see if he bites. The 2008 taxes on the property have not been paid and he's hanging on for dear life to a buyer who can't get their financing. He's basically told me that if my offer is not good enough, he's sticking with the buyers who will probably never close. Oh well, the first rule of negotiations is...you gotta be willing to walk away! AND, I am. The market is not totally bad in Houston, but it ain't great either, and I want a good deal. There are way too many houses just sitting on the market to not get a great deal right now. I will update more on the house later....
Friday, December 19, 2008
Rick Warren, What's the Big Deal??
President-elect Barack Obama has chosen California pastor, Rick Warren to give the invocation at his inauguration in January. I've seen many articles criticizing Obama for this choice. Why?
This article on CNN.com written by Kathryn Kolbert states that Warren doesn't "deserve" the special honor of giving the invocation because he is pro-life, supported prop 8, and opposes stem cell research. And?? What the heck do people expect? A Christian pastor who is pro-choice, didn't support prop 8 and is gung ho about stem cell research? Give me a break! Personally, I don't like this choice because Warren wrote what is absolutely the most stupid book I've ever attempted to read. "The Purpose Driven Life". What a total waste of paper. If you're Christian, you have all the purpose you freakin' need people! But, I'm digressing.
If Obama is of the Christian faith, it makes sense that he would choose a Christian pastor to do the invocation. I think it would be rather hard to find a pastor that supports all of these issues. I guess he could choose a homosexual pastor who supports gay marriage but most likely he will not support the other two issues. Also, she gave absolutely no credit to Warren for all of the good he and his church have done in the world. Frankly, I'm tired of Christians being slammed all the time for the beliefs we hold. I don't shove my beliefs down any one's throat but that doesn't mean I'm going to compromise them either. I think homosexual couples should be allowed to marry. In my mind, it's a civil rights issues. My religious beliefs about homosexuality don't have to be everyone else's beliefs. I would never, under any circumstances, choose to have an abortion but the Supreme Court has made the decision. Sometimes personal, religious beliefs don't mesh with modern day laws. Obama was slammed a few months ago for Reverend Wright and his so called "hate sermons." Now, he slammed for picking someone who in the world of Christianity at least, is considered a watered down, moderate Christian. Obama is "damned if he does and damned if he doesn't." Lay off of Obama. He fought a long, hard campaign and he won. Let him choose whoever he wants to do the invocation.
"Obesity Tax"
As always, once government decides to "solve" a problem and dictate personal behavior, it ends up being a complete disaster. Now, Governor of New York, David Paterson, (yeah the blind guy that SNL made fun of) has decided to introduce the "Obesity Tax". See article here.
So, now all soft drinks (non diet) and juice drinks that are less than 70% real juice will be taxed 18%. The governor likens this to the supposed success of the cigarette tax. There are several flaws I see in this argument. Of course, my regular readers realize how I feel about the subject of being obese in America. And, don't get me wrong. I cringe when I see kids drinking soft drinks.
1. The obese are "taxed" enough in this country by the onslaught of stigmatization they face on a daily basis. (Kids included)
2. You cannot govern personal behavior. To say that the cigarette tax is the ONLY reason that smoking has declined does not take into account the change in attitudes toward smoking and smokers in this country. People will still drink alcohol, smoke and drink regular coke even if they pay a higher tax.
3. What about the junk food in the schools and the crap food that parents are serving them at home?
4. What about parents who use the T.V. as their babysitter and have kids who NEVER go outside and actually play??
5. How about not taking P.E. class time out of the schools so the kids can spend useless time trying to pass standardized tests that don't really measure learning?
6. How about teaching our children moderation. How about parenting them and saying "no" when they need to hear it. (This would probably be good in areas other than eating as well!)
So, in my opinion, this is just another useless tax that will do little to change the actual problem of childhood obesity. Parents need to parent. Parents have to teach their kids moderation and slap their hand once in a while when they get in the cookie jar one too many times. The government cannot solve this problem. This problem will only be solved in the homes of America when we decide it's time to take personal responsibility and govern ourselves.
Monday, December 15, 2008
"The Christmas Shoes"
Lordy be, I just hate that song. "I want her to look beautiful in case mama meets Jesus tonight." Puh-lease. Do not try to play on my emotions, I really hate that, which is why I cannot stand the stupid song. UGH...
Me Too, Me Too!!
I realize that he's the President of the United States, but I admit, I laughed my booty off when I saw this video yesterday...
Oh gosh, I laugh every time I see it. I guess the secret service is tired of him too since it took the second shoe almost landing on his head for them to even get up!! Also, you know this reporter will be the newest "detainee" at Gitmo! Well, I know he's the President and a certain amount of respect goes along with that title but honestly, I'm jealous. I want to try it too! I'm envisioning a new game at the State Fair this year!! AND..look at "W"! He's got some serious moves that probably saved him from a major black eye! (Although, his legacy is not so lucky!)
Oh gosh, I laugh every time I see it. I guess the secret service is tired of him too since it took the second shoe almost landing on his head for them to even get up!! Also, you know this reporter will be the newest "detainee" at Gitmo! Well, I know he's the President and a certain amount of respect goes along with that title but honestly, I'm jealous. I want to try it too! I'm envisioning a new game at the State Fair this year!! AND..look at "W"! He's got some serious moves that probably saved him from a major black eye! (Although, his legacy is not so lucky!)
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Christmas Past
I love satellite radio, especially at Christmas when I can listen to non stop Christmas music on the "Holly" channel...
It drives my Boo crazy but he listens because he knows I love it. There are a few songs that come on that I will sing away to and he's like "who is that?" What's "band aid?" Wham??!?? So, Boo, here you go...some oldies but goodies...
Band Aid! The 1984 phenomenon. Yes, that's Bono, George Michael, Duran Duran, Phil Collins etc...
Now, for my absolute favorite...Wham!, Last Christmas...
Love that one! Enjoy!
It drives my Boo crazy but he listens because he knows I love it. There are a few songs that come on that I will sing away to and he's like "who is that?" What's "band aid?" Wham??!?? So, Boo, here you go...some oldies but goodies...
Band Aid! The 1984 phenomenon. Yes, that's Bono, George Michael, Duran Duran, Phil Collins etc...
Now, for my absolute favorite...Wham!, Last Christmas...
Love that one! Enjoy!
Monday, December 8, 2008
A New Senator Kennedy?
I read that Caroline Kennedy is very interested in Senator Clinton's seat when she is confirmed as the new Secretary of State for President-elect Obama.
Why do I get the feeling that some think she would do a good job merely because her last name is Kennedy? I don't really know much about her education, career, etc. but I can't help but think that if her name were not Kennedy, we wouldn't be talking about her taking Senator Clinton's seat.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
It's a real tree this year Charlie Brown...
Yes, I have my very first real Christmas tree this year. It's our eclectic tree this year. We have our lovely Lenox snowflake ornaments, various ornaments that we've collected from different vacations to New York, hand blown glass ornaments from my Boo's granddad from over the years and our Swarovski crystal star ornaments that I love so much.
This was before we pushed it back in the corner. It turned our pretty cute and putting up each ornament is like going back and remembering the time you bought it or the person who gave it to you. I love that. I always write on the box when the ornaments were bought, the date and where they were purchased. Unless, of course, someone gave it to us, then I record that information. I didn't do the Radko tree this year. There's just not enough room for a huge tree like that. I will be making my stop at North Pole City in Oklahoma City on our way to Kansas to peruse their Radko collection. They have a great selection and unique Radko's that you can't find anywhere else. Maybe next year they will an appearance. Normally, we have about four trees, each with their own themes. The Radko ornament tree, the Lenox tree, etc.. But, for this year, less is more (we only have 500 lights on this tree if you can believe that!) and I'm perfectly happy with "less"...
This was before we pushed it back in the corner. It turned our pretty cute and putting up each ornament is like going back and remembering the time you bought it or the person who gave it to you. I love that. I always write on the box when the ornaments were bought, the date and where they were purchased. Unless, of course, someone gave it to us, then I record that information. I didn't do the Radko tree this year. There's just not enough room for a huge tree like that. I will be making my stop at North Pole City in Oklahoma City on our way to Kansas to peruse their Radko collection. They have a great selection and unique Radko's that you can't find anywhere else. Maybe next year they will an appearance. Normally, we have about four trees, each with their own themes. The Radko ornament tree, the Lenox tree, etc.. But, for this year, less is more (we only have 500 lights on this tree if you can believe that!) and I'm perfectly happy with "less"...
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