http://taxcut.barackobama.com/
Under Obama I save $1,050; under McCain I save $0. And I'm middle income.
10.25.2008
Domestic Violence Month
In light of Jennifer Hudson's loss, which appears to be a result of domestic violence, I thought I'd raise awareness.
Resources...
http://www.domesticviolence.org/
http://www.ndvh.org/
http://www.abanet.org/domviol/statistics.html
If you are somebody you know needs help...it is out there.
Resources...
http://www.domesticviolence.org/
http://www.ndvh.org/
http://www.abanet.org/domviol/statistics.html
If you are somebody you know needs help...it is out there.
10.24.2008
Should I feel like an asshole? You be the judge...
About a year ago I went on one date with a fellow; however, I was still trying to heal from the ex. I was crazy in love and not ready or willing to let go. You know how that goes sometimes. Heart doesn't listen to the brain. Plus, I wasn't particularly attracted to him, but I enjoyed his conversation/company. It ended with my telling him that I wasn't over the ex. It was the truth.
So about two months ago, he finds me on facebook and comes at me with awesome confidence. I agree to go out with him, we have fun. He started growing on me. I wasn't ravenously attracted to him, but he was growing on me.
Welp, the ex comes in on some, "allow me to reintroduce myself!" Being a solid dude, honestly trying to win my heart back...and I'm open to it.
So with that, I start to retract. But tonight I told old dude what's up. Why I haven't actively tried to hang out with him. He naturally sounds disappointed, but it's the truth, it's life...am I fugged up?
So about two months ago, he finds me on facebook and comes at me with awesome confidence. I agree to go out with him, we have fun. He started growing on me. I wasn't ravenously attracted to him, but he was growing on me.
Welp, the ex comes in on some, "allow me to reintroduce myself!" Being a solid dude, honestly trying to win my heart back...and I'm open to it.
So with that, I start to retract. But tonight I told old dude what's up. Why I haven't actively tried to hang out with him. He naturally sounds disappointed, but it's the truth, it's life...am I fugged up?
True Character
McCain has not stopped to pause and offer up positivity to Obama as he deals with his Grandmother's failing health.
Character.
Character.
Lasagna
Do you have a mean lasagna recipe? One that makes you wanna smack yourself cuz it's so good?
Last night the host cooked lasagna. It was good. Not slap yo' mamma good, but good. So I'm tempted to try cooking some lasagna.
What food can you cook that makes you want to smack yourself cuz it's that damn good?
Last night the host cooked lasagna. It was good. Not slap yo' mamma good, but good. So I'm tempted to try cooking some lasagna.
What food can you cook that makes you want to smack yourself cuz it's that damn good?
Prediction
My wonderful, beautiful grandmother passed away shortly after her birthday. And you know what happened on her birthday? Family from north south east and west came to visit her. I think her last selfless act was to hold on to spend time with those that she loved. Death is fascinating at times. There are countless stories where one spouse passes away and shortly thereafter the other spouse passes away. It shows how connected love and the will to live are.
I hate to make this prediciton, but it's just real talk. I believe that Obama's grandmother will pass away on November 5th, after her grandson has achieved the impossible victory. Her love for him will prevail and she will rest in peace.
I hate to make this prediciton, but it's just real talk. I believe that Obama's grandmother will pass away on November 5th, after her grandson has achieved the impossible victory. Her love for him will prevail and she will rest in peace.
10.22.2008
Forgot to post my prediction...
I predict that stocks will close down 500 points today.
Glad I rearragned a few things with my 401(k).
Refer back to the prediciton post that Q3 earnings would cause a down turn.
Glad I rearragned a few things with my 401(k).
Refer back to the prediciton post that Q3 earnings would cause a down turn.
McCain's newest endorsement: Al-Qaeda
I wish I were making this shit up. But see it for yourself .The Endorsement.
Random thoughts/questions
1. If your SO invited you to a dinner with his boss and people important to him would you ask him how he wanted you to dress / wear your hair?
2. If your SO wanted to swap cars for 2 days...would you do it? He drives your Honda you drive his BMW 745. Where would you go with the BMW 745.
3. Do you write complaint letters/emails? I wrote three this week. One to Campbell Soup, one to SNL (for having Palin on) and geez...I forget the 3rd.
4. I Tutor at a local elementary school for the first time today. Should be interesting.
5. People at work are telling me that I'm super structured/detailed. No, if something is to happen, I need to have a clear vision of it. So I'll write it down and/or organize how the execution is going to happen so that there aren't questions about it.
6. At work, do you prefer e-mail or voicemail?
2. If your SO wanted to swap cars for 2 days...would you do it? He drives your Honda you drive his BMW 745. Where would you go with the BMW 745.
3. Do you write complaint letters/emails? I wrote three this week. One to Campbell Soup, one to SNL (for having Palin on) and geez...I forget the 3rd.
4. I Tutor at a local elementary school for the first time today. Should be interesting.
5. People at work are telling me that I'm super structured/detailed. No, if something is to happen, I need to have a clear vision of it. So I'll write it down and/or organize how the execution is going to happen so that there aren't questions about it.
6. At work, do you prefer e-mail or voicemail?
10.21.2008
I am really trying to be less political!
I even changed my facebook profile pic from a ballot to me. So now that I'm in the spirit trying to be less political...some random thoughts
1. Why is it that when you want to change lanes on the highway if you do the right thing and signal MOFOs speed up and make it impossible for you to cross. However, when you start cutting over without notice, they slow down to make sure you can get it?
2. I'm going to Junkman's Daughter afterwork with my newly adopted work boo. This is the one that has a killer body (5'6, size 4/6, good proportions) but dresses more conservatively than Laura Bush. When we were in Spain I coaxed her into purchasing some styles that were conservative, yet a bit edgy. Tonight our task is to find her a sexy, not slutty, Halloween Costume. I'm looking forward to it!
3. If there was a presidential race for my heart, the ex is like the incumbant who has effed up in the past, but I know his credentials and I know he means well. Miracle man - I dont' trust him...I can't pinpoint it, but woman's intuition is not something that should be pinpointed.
4. How do middle school kids say, "that's cool." In speaking to my Little, I stumble around how to ask her what's hip or happening these days.
5. Both my mother and brother have voted.
6. I decreased my 401(k) contribution from 5% to 3% (the Company match percentage). I shifted my allocations toward more bonds. Equity is not the hotness right now. In addition, I transferred half of my Bank of America savings over to an ING account. I initially opened an ING account at the beginning of September with only $500. In one month I earned $1.11 in interest. Go check your Wachovia or BOA savings account and compare to that. Let's just say that several thousands barely accrued that much interest in my BOA savings account over one month. Plus, ING is easily linked to my BOA account, so it remains relatively liquid.
7. Loneliness and sadness came to visit me this past weekend. I thought I got rid of those bastards, but they came to hang out with me for a bit.
8. I admit, I am officially addicted to coffee. I must have it on the weekends now. I actually enjoy going to Starbucks, sitting down reading something while I sip my coffee. I like it grande, house blend, squirts of vanilla, enough milk in it to turn it my skin color. I put one pack of sugar in the raw in it and shake a bit of Dulce (or Cinnamon if not at a Starbucks). It's like a little piece of heaven.
9. On average, how many glasses of wine do you have a week? Do you drink wine alone? What is your favorite type? Me: Since I got back from overseas, I keep a bottle of red wine in the house all the time. I prefer reds over whites, and less fruity flavors. I'm not loyal to a particular brand or even type, but I do like them medium to full bodied, dry, oaky and spicey. Pinot Noirs tend to achieve this mix. I drink a glass if not every night, then every other night. I hope this is not alcoholic, and if it is somebody take me to a AAA meeting. My name is SunFresh and I like a glass of wine.
10. What type of phone do you have? I love my blackberry. When I lost mine in Spain, I replaced it within 2 hours of being back in the states. Now I have the marroon blackberry curve. Oh yeah - if you know I had your info at one point and I don't have it now...send me a text with your name so I can save you. (For those of ya that didn't do so already via facebook).
11. For those of you on facebook, and be honest and truthful, do I need to calm the f*ck down with status updates and/or posts related to the election? It's fun to do commentary via status updates during a debate, but those are over. At times I am amazed at the information that people don't know. Like Cindy McCain's tax return of $954,112. Then yesterday, somebody told me that they didn't realize that the information that Congress relied upon to back Bush in the war was inaccurate and incomplete. Congress released a report on this, I know b/c I'm passionate about it and I think others should be educated too. Oh yeah - google PBS and Bush's War..there is a documentary. It's pretty tough to watch.
12. Ya know my Obama fundraising goal of $500. I'm 65% there. My uncle gave me a sizable donation. I know we're just about exhausted with donating, but heck...help a fellow blogger help America.
13. Well, I was kind of less political.
14. I should start working out. I haven't been to the gym in like 3 months. My muscles are tighter. I haven't gained...well maybe 2-3 pounds, but after my quasi Q1/Q2 depression, I could stand to gain a few pounds. I was getting kinda boney.
1. Why is it that when you want to change lanes on the highway if you do the right thing and signal MOFOs speed up and make it impossible for you to cross. However, when you start cutting over without notice, they slow down to make sure you can get it?
2. I'm going to Junkman's Daughter afterwork with my newly adopted work boo. This is the one that has a killer body (5'6, size 4/6, good proportions) but dresses more conservatively than Laura Bush. When we were in Spain I coaxed her into purchasing some styles that were conservative, yet a bit edgy. Tonight our task is to find her a sexy, not slutty, Halloween Costume. I'm looking forward to it!
3. If there was a presidential race for my heart, the ex is like the incumbant who has effed up in the past, but I know his credentials and I know he means well. Miracle man - I dont' trust him...I can't pinpoint it, but woman's intuition is not something that should be pinpointed.
4. How do middle school kids say, "that's cool." In speaking to my Little, I stumble around how to ask her what's hip or happening these days.
5. Both my mother and brother have voted.
6. I decreased my 401(k) contribution from 5% to 3% (the Company match percentage). I shifted my allocations toward more bonds. Equity is not the hotness right now. In addition, I transferred half of my Bank of America savings over to an ING account. I initially opened an ING account at the beginning of September with only $500. In one month I earned $1.11 in interest. Go check your Wachovia or BOA savings account and compare to that. Let's just say that several thousands barely accrued that much interest in my BOA savings account over one month. Plus, ING is easily linked to my BOA account, so it remains relatively liquid.
7. Loneliness and sadness came to visit me this past weekend. I thought I got rid of those bastards, but they came to hang out with me for a bit.
8. I admit, I am officially addicted to coffee. I must have it on the weekends now. I actually enjoy going to Starbucks, sitting down reading something while I sip my coffee. I like it grande, house blend, squirts of vanilla, enough milk in it to turn it my skin color. I put one pack of sugar in the raw in it and shake a bit of Dulce (or Cinnamon if not at a Starbucks). It's like a little piece of heaven.
9. On average, how many glasses of wine do you have a week? Do you drink wine alone? What is your favorite type? Me: Since I got back from overseas, I keep a bottle of red wine in the house all the time. I prefer reds over whites, and less fruity flavors. I'm not loyal to a particular brand or even type, but I do like them medium to full bodied, dry, oaky and spicey. Pinot Noirs tend to achieve this mix. I drink a glass if not every night, then every other night. I hope this is not alcoholic, and if it is somebody take me to a AAA meeting. My name is SunFresh and I like a glass of wine.
10. What type of phone do you have? I love my blackberry. When I lost mine in Spain, I replaced it within 2 hours of being back in the states. Now I have the marroon blackberry curve. Oh yeah - if you know I had your info at one point and I don't have it now...send me a text with your name so I can save you. (For those of ya that didn't do so already via facebook).
11. For those of you on facebook, and be honest and truthful, do I need to calm the f*ck down with status updates and/or posts related to the election? It's fun to do commentary via status updates during a debate, but those are over. At times I am amazed at the information that people don't know. Like Cindy McCain's tax return of $954,112. Then yesterday, somebody told me that they didn't realize that the information that Congress relied upon to back Bush in the war was inaccurate and incomplete. Congress released a report on this, I know b/c I'm passionate about it and I think others should be educated too. Oh yeah - google PBS and Bush's War..there is a documentary. It's pretty tough to watch.
12. Ya know my Obama fundraising goal of $500. I'm 65% there. My uncle gave me a sizable donation. I know we're just about exhausted with donating, but heck...help a fellow blogger help America.
13. Well, I was kind of less political.
14. I should start working out. I haven't been to the gym in like 3 months. My muscles are tighter. I haven't gained...well maybe 2-3 pounds, but after my quasi Q1/Q2 depression, I could stand to gain a few pounds. I was getting kinda boney.
10.19.2008
GAS
I posted this on another blog; however, I wanted to keep it in my personal journal (this blog).
Three weeks ago, I filled up for $3.79/gallon.
Today...$2.69. However, as the resident angry American citizen that sees through B.S. This drastic reduction in the gas price makes me distrust what I don't know about the government even more.
It is completely unreasonable to think that consumption has dropped so low as to validate such a significant drop in the gas price. If supply and demand economics is what drove the price up...as we were told time and time again, I find it impossible to believe that consumption has slowed such that the price would drop $0.80 over a 2 month period of time.
So prices drop, which equates to an economic stimulus package. You spend less on gas...especially around the holiday season, you're more apt to spend on consumer products, especially for Christmas time. Q4 is going to look great and the gov't economic advisers will claim that we are no longer in a recession b/c 'we' experienced growth in Q4. We are merely puppets.
Three weeks ago, I filled up for $3.79/gallon.
Today...$2.69. However, as the resident angry American citizen that sees through B.S. This drastic reduction in the gas price makes me distrust what I don't know about the government even more.
It is completely unreasonable to think that consumption has dropped so low as to validate such a significant drop in the gas price. If supply and demand economics is what drove the price up...as we were told time and time again, I find it impossible to believe that consumption has slowed such that the price would drop $0.80 over a 2 month period of time.
So prices drop, which equates to an economic stimulus package. You spend less on gas...especially around the holiday season, you're more apt to spend on consumer products, especially for Christmas time. Q4 is going to look great and the gov't economic advisers will claim that we are no longer in a recession b/c 'we' experienced growth in Q4. We are merely puppets.
W.
Y'all I need a break. Seriously, I cannot wait until it's all said and done. I care too much, I am taking this election way to personally.
So tonight I saw W. A lot of people are like, "It's Oliver, it's fictional, don't take it seriously." I concede that I shouldn't take the portrayal of the father-son relationship seriously. And yes, I know that the government lied to me. When congress issued the intelligence report that that there was enough evidence to know prior to our first strike that there were no WMD, I posted it and was amazed that the media didn't take it and run with it. Americans were lied to and the media just sat back quietly. The reason why this movie was so disturbing to me...welll...
I liken this pictorial representation of the Bush administration to the difference between reading a Harry Potter book and seeing it on screen. In Harry Potter there are certain things that are described or words said that I completely messed up in my head. But on screen - it made more sense, where I had various creative gaps, the movie helped to fill them.
This movie did the same for me. I knew bout the lies, and sure Stone used creative license to succinctly get certain points across...but the visualization of the acceptance and promotion of lies amongst a small few...and the cost was not only the global economy, but more importantly peoples' lives....that was REALLY hard for me to watch. It disturbed me more than I thought it would.
There is one scene that brought me to tears.
Various advisers are discussing the plan to invade Iraq. Colin Powell holds his ground that he doesn't think a preemptive strike is the way to go. He wants to ensure that all acts of diplomacy are exhausted before we attack. He's uncomfortable about the intelligence lack of support for the existence of WMD. But Dick Chaney gets up and says that despite support for the existence of WMDs America must take over middle eastern countries because they hold energy and represent the gateway to the next possible super-power countries, Russia and China. Somebody asks what the exit strategy is...and he affirms that there is no plan to exit.
Think of it in terms of imperialism. One country invades another and sets up shop. They have no right to be there, except they want certain resources that are native to that country. We are in the middle east as parasites. We don't have energy resources to feed our own greed, so we are trying to control a nation that does have the required resources. And we are trying to assert ourselves against the next two prominent economies/nations: Russia and China.
Just think, had we invested the billions of dollars spent on this war in alternative energy, we could get from point A to point B in the same fashion of Scottie on Star Trek. (Beam me up Scottie).
So tonight I saw W. A lot of people are like, "It's Oliver, it's fictional, don't take it seriously." I concede that I shouldn't take the portrayal of the father-son relationship seriously. And yes, I know that the government lied to me. When congress issued the intelligence report that that there was enough evidence to know prior to our first strike that there were no WMD, I posted it and was amazed that the media didn't take it and run with it. Americans were lied to and the media just sat back quietly. The reason why this movie was so disturbing to me...welll...
I liken this pictorial representation of the Bush administration to the difference between reading a Harry Potter book and seeing it on screen. In Harry Potter there are certain things that are described or words said that I completely messed up in my head. But on screen - it made more sense, where I had various creative gaps, the movie helped to fill them.
This movie did the same for me. I knew bout the lies, and sure Stone used creative license to succinctly get certain points across...but the visualization of the acceptance and promotion of lies amongst a small few...and the cost was not only the global economy, but more importantly peoples' lives....that was REALLY hard for me to watch. It disturbed me more than I thought it would.
There is one scene that brought me to tears.
Various advisers are discussing the plan to invade Iraq. Colin Powell holds his ground that he doesn't think a preemptive strike is the way to go. He wants to ensure that all acts of diplomacy are exhausted before we attack. He's uncomfortable about the intelligence lack of support for the existence of WMD. But Dick Chaney gets up and says that despite support for the existence of WMDs America must take over middle eastern countries because they hold energy and represent the gateway to the next possible super-power countries, Russia and China. Somebody asks what the exit strategy is...and he affirms that there is no plan to exit.
Think of it in terms of imperialism. One country invades another and sets up shop. They have no right to be there, except they want certain resources that are native to that country. We are in the middle east as parasites. We don't have energy resources to feed our own greed, so we are trying to control a nation that does have the required resources. And we are trying to assert ourselves against the next two prominent economies/nations: Russia and China.
Just think, had we invested the billions of dollars spent on this war in alternative energy, we could get from point A to point B in the same fashion of Scottie on Star Trek. (Beam me up Scottie).
10.18.2008
Yea! I met my Little Today
Through Big Brothers Big Sisters :-) So exciting.
Also completely unrelated. Ladies, when dating, is it reasonable to ask yourself, "If I got pregnant by accident right now with this man, would I be comfortable?" I am not talking about after the first date, but when you start to develop a routine with a guy and are really dating, or for lack of better word, "going steady."
I think that's the question I will ask myself. To me, it's not enough to be into their laughs, personality ect. Especially in terms of marriage. Perhaps this will be my great marriage deterrant. The Secret somewhat teaches that we are not who we were yesterday. Who we are is a residual of all of the decisions that we made in the past.
So if I look at a person who is 30+ and is still trying to find a way...am I to be cautious that he has questionalbe judgment, limited foresight? Sure you have to take risks every once in a while. But once you start caring for more than just yourself, the risk factor increases a million fold. Err - dating was easier when I was younger!
Shameless plus - anybody want to donate today? I've got an extra $25. *Smiles n' Hugs*
Also completely unrelated. Ladies, when dating, is it reasonable to ask yourself, "If I got pregnant by accident right now with this man, would I be comfortable?" I am not talking about after the first date, but when you start to develop a routine with a guy and are really dating, or for lack of better word, "going steady."
I think that's the question I will ask myself. To me, it's not enough to be into their laughs, personality ect. Especially in terms of marriage. Perhaps this will be my great marriage deterrant. The Secret somewhat teaches that we are not who we were yesterday. Who we are is a residual of all of the decisions that we made in the past.
So if I look at a person who is 30+ and is still trying to find a way...am I to be cautious that he has questionalbe judgment, limited foresight? Sure you have to take risks every once in a while. But once you start caring for more than just yourself, the risk factor increases a million fold. Err - dating was easier when I was younger!
Shameless plus - anybody want to donate today? I've got an extra $25. *Smiles n' Hugs*
10.17.2008
Biden is my man!!!!
While Palin is trying to define the Pro-America, he's pointing out one fundamental line that we should all hold dear to our heart:
"We are one nation, under God, indivisible,"
"We are one nation, under God, indivisible,"
$954,112 reasons that I wish I were Cindy McCain
This was her TAX REFUND.
Not her tax payments, not her salary. But the TAX REFUND.
and yes, one of the first thoughts you might have is...get a better tax planner.
second question is, you freak out at the thought of a 3% marginal tax increase, but think that I shouldn't get tax relief?
But then I think about that picture of John McCain sticking out his tongue and I wish I were SunFresh again....oh wait! I am :-)
Not her tax payments, not her salary. But the TAX REFUND.
and yes, one of the first thoughts you might have is...get a better tax planner.
second question is, you freak out at the thought of a 3% marginal tax increase, but think that I shouldn't get tax relief?
But then I think about that picture of John McCain sticking out his tongue and I wish I were SunFresh again....oh wait! I am :-)
10.16.2008
Good Bad and Ugly
What do you think McCain's strengths and weaknesses were during last night's debate?
What do you think Obama's strengths and weaknesses were during last night's debate?
I do think that at times Obama was on the defensive; however, he held his ground firm and strong. There were no facial expressions of complete utter surprise, because well...he's managed a pretty darn good campaign and his advisors are complete and thorough.
Obama's best point as McCain wanted to launch personal attacks is that the McCain campaign's preoccupation with loose connections says more about his concern for the American public than it does about Obama. While people are losing their houses, 401(k) savings, jobs, ect...you want to talk about a loose connection? I'd rather McCain convince me that I don't need to fear the task of selecting a health insurance provider on my own in the event that my employer drops health care. I have two options, and quite frankly....I don't get most of it. I select a decent plan that's middle of the road, and I appreciate that all the options are laid out for me by my employer. I don't want that to be an additional headache. So yes, McCain...please focus on things that affect ME. (I'm acitng republican-ish...b/c it's all about me).
Also, I would really like to understand what a federal government spending freeze means for me and my fellow citizens. Will this impact my daily life, will it impact my extended family that isn't as well off as me, or my extended family that is doing much better than me? McCain, explain this to me. Would you suggest local governments to do the same? You know the governments that support the education system, police, firefighters, etc. We're already laying off and reducing local governments. Call me crazy for thinking that federal assistance would be a necessary option in the event that a local municipality is unable to keep their constituents safe and educated given these trying economic times.
Obviously, I'm a democrat by nature...I find myself to have strong civil responsibility to my fellow citizens. It's not all about me, because I know that I can't make it in this country alone. Like a firefighter, sometimes I believe that you have to sacrifice yourself for the benefit of others, especially when you're better prepared and equipped to battle the fire than those caught in the flame. So a lot of what Obama said resonated with me.
In terms of the Ayers connection. I turn around and think...okay, let's talk about associations and character, Mr. McCain. You left your crippled first wife for a younger rich model. You were married two months after your divorce was finalized, so essentially you cheated on your wife. Then you were caught on recorded calling your second rich WIFE, the person with whom you share a last name, a trollup and a cunt. Those actions disturbe me a million times more than Obama sitting on a board with a bad guy. In one instance Obama chose to serve on a non-profit board for something positive. In the other instance McCain chose to disrespect the women closest to him. Perhaps that hits home to me a bit harder because I am a woman.
In regards to the conversation on abortion. I REALLY, REALLY need pro-lifers to understand that pro-choice does not equate to pro-abortion in the same way that pro-life does not equate to anti-choice. What pro-choice means to me, is that I respect my right and other womens' rights to consult their spiritual advisors, doctors and families to ensure that they are making the safest, healthiest and best decision for them given their circumstances and situations.
McCain wanted to point out that he has an adopted daughter. She is from Indonesia. Not to take anything away from that; however, this is an American election. McCain: adopt inside the United States and promote sex-education if you seriously think that abortion should be outlawed.
McCain also put woman's health in air quotation marks. Look, birth control is already not covered by insurance, despite the fact that viagraa is. Rape victims were paying for rape kits in Wissilla (the only municipality in Alaska that was engaging in that practice). Adoption is extremely difficult in the USA. And you think women's 'health' is extreme and taken out of context at times?
Then we're talking about Sarah Palin being qualified. He pointed out her 'experience' as governer in Alaska and her stance on special needs families. So basically she is positive for some of the smallest populations in all of the USA. I do not take away the need to support special needs families; however, I'd also like to focus on families that can't provide healthcare to their children, whether their children have special needs or not. I'm sorry...your $5,000 rebate/credit will NOT support the family who needs to purchase $12,000 insurance, which was previously provided by their employer.
Joe the Plumber: I don't trust this at all. His last name is shared with one of those indicted in the Keating 5 scandal. Ohio is NOT THAT BIG. There is evidence that he owns 3-4 small businesses already. So this "I'm a plumber wanting to open my business woah is me for paying more taxes," is a crock of shit in my book. Furthermore, what plumbers in small towns do you know that make more than $250,000? Perhaps more than $250,000 in revenue, but I'm a CPA and understand that there are deductable expenses that most likely bring your AGI below $250,000. And again, back to the firefighter correlation. If I, a person making less than $250,000, can't afford my gas or groceries, I damn sure won't be calling on some Plumber that doesn't think that I should receive a tax break.
Which leads me into a thought on crime. Crime increases during economic disparities. Why? It's the Robin Hood effect. If there is not some type of equality or sharing the wealth...people will steal the wealth.
Which leads me to the thought of fairness in taxes. Warren Buffet pays approximately 17% in taxes. His secretary pays approximately 30%. Please, somebody explain what is fair about that?
What do you think Obama's strengths and weaknesses were during last night's debate?
I do think that at times Obama was on the defensive; however, he held his ground firm and strong. There were no facial expressions of complete utter surprise, because well...he's managed a pretty darn good campaign and his advisors are complete and thorough.
Obama's best point as McCain wanted to launch personal attacks is that the McCain campaign's preoccupation with loose connections says more about his concern for the American public than it does about Obama. While people are losing their houses, 401(k) savings, jobs, ect...you want to talk about a loose connection? I'd rather McCain convince me that I don't need to fear the task of selecting a health insurance provider on my own in the event that my employer drops health care. I have two options, and quite frankly....I don't get most of it. I select a decent plan that's middle of the road, and I appreciate that all the options are laid out for me by my employer. I don't want that to be an additional headache. So yes, McCain...please focus on things that affect ME. (I'm acitng republican-ish...b/c it's all about me).
Also, I would really like to understand what a federal government spending freeze means for me and my fellow citizens. Will this impact my daily life, will it impact my extended family that isn't as well off as me, or my extended family that is doing much better than me? McCain, explain this to me. Would you suggest local governments to do the same? You know the governments that support the education system, police, firefighters, etc. We're already laying off and reducing local governments. Call me crazy for thinking that federal assistance would be a necessary option in the event that a local municipality is unable to keep their constituents safe and educated given these trying economic times.
Obviously, I'm a democrat by nature...I find myself to have strong civil responsibility to my fellow citizens. It's not all about me, because I know that I can't make it in this country alone. Like a firefighter, sometimes I believe that you have to sacrifice yourself for the benefit of others, especially when you're better prepared and equipped to battle the fire than those caught in the flame. So a lot of what Obama said resonated with me.
In terms of the Ayers connection. I turn around and think...okay, let's talk about associations and character, Mr. McCain. You left your crippled first wife for a younger rich model. You were married two months after your divorce was finalized, so essentially you cheated on your wife. Then you were caught on recorded calling your second rich WIFE, the person with whom you share a last name, a trollup and a cunt. Those actions disturbe me a million times more than Obama sitting on a board with a bad guy. In one instance Obama chose to serve on a non-profit board for something positive. In the other instance McCain chose to disrespect the women closest to him. Perhaps that hits home to me a bit harder because I am a woman.
In regards to the conversation on abortion. I REALLY, REALLY need pro-lifers to understand that pro-choice does not equate to pro-abortion in the same way that pro-life does not equate to anti-choice. What pro-choice means to me, is that I respect my right and other womens' rights to consult their spiritual advisors, doctors and families to ensure that they are making the safest, healthiest and best decision for them given their circumstances and situations.
McCain wanted to point out that he has an adopted daughter. She is from Indonesia. Not to take anything away from that; however, this is an American election. McCain: adopt inside the United States and promote sex-education if you seriously think that abortion should be outlawed.
McCain also put woman's health in air quotation marks. Look, birth control is already not covered by insurance, despite the fact that viagraa is. Rape victims were paying for rape kits in Wissilla (the only municipality in Alaska that was engaging in that practice). Adoption is extremely difficult in the USA. And you think women's 'health' is extreme and taken out of context at times?
Then we're talking about Sarah Palin being qualified. He pointed out her 'experience' as governer in Alaska and her stance on special needs families. So basically she is positive for some of the smallest populations in all of the USA. I do not take away the need to support special needs families; however, I'd also like to focus on families that can't provide healthcare to their children, whether their children have special needs or not. I'm sorry...your $5,000 rebate/credit will NOT support the family who needs to purchase $12,000 insurance, which was previously provided by their employer.
Joe the Plumber: I don't trust this at all. His last name is shared with one of those indicted in the Keating 5 scandal. Ohio is NOT THAT BIG. There is evidence that he owns 3-4 small businesses already. So this "I'm a plumber wanting to open my business woah is me for paying more taxes," is a crock of shit in my book. Furthermore, what plumbers in small towns do you know that make more than $250,000? Perhaps more than $250,000 in revenue, but I'm a CPA and understand that there are deductable expenses that most likely bring your AGI below $250,000. And again, back to the firefighter correlation. If I, a person making less than $250,000, can't afford my gas or groceries, I damn sure won't be calling on some Plumber that doesn't think that I should receive a tax break.
Which leads me into a thought on crime. Crime increases during economic disparities. Why? It's the Robin Hood effect. If there is not some type of equality or sharing the wealth...people will steal the wealth.
Which leads me to the thought of fairness in taxes. Warren Buffet pays approximately 17% in taxes. His secretary pays approximately 30%. Please, somebody explain what is fair about that?
10.15.2008
The Debate - Actually...it's all on facebook.
Midori - do you have facebook?
aaw6m@hotmail.com - Hit me up :-) (Any other lurkers are welcome as well).
aaw6m@hotmail.com - Hit me up :-) (Any other lurkers are welcome as well).
Bragging on my Moms
Y'all know my Moms is one of THE BEST women alive.
Today she donated to the Obama Campaign on my Fundraising page. Not only that, but she forwarded it on to 20 of her friends. One other person donated and I looked the woman up. She's an editor at Essence Magazine and an author of a few books!!!! How impressive!
My mom went to an Ivy League journalism school and a lot of her classmates are doing Big Things. People's circles can be so broad and amazing.
Today she donated to the Obama Campaign on my Fundraising page. Not only that, but she forwarded it on to 20 of her friends. One other person donated and I looked the woman up. She's an editor at Essence Magazine and an author of a few books!!!! How impressive!
My mom went to an Ivy League journalism school and a lot of her classmates are doing Big Things. People's circles can be so broad and amazing.
10.14.2008
Does anybody know of churches that
are organizing trips to take the elderly to the voting polls? I'd like to participate.
I voted today
I don't need to announce who I voted for. There was no last minute shame as I pressed the button. I am so proud.
I immediately think of my grandparents. Those that NEVER believed that this would happen. For some it happened in their life time, for others, I represent an extension of their life. They are in my heart and my blood and I did this for me, for them...for America.
I immediately think of my grandparents. Those that NEVER believed that this would happen. For some it happened in their life time, for others, I represent an extension of their life. They are in my heart and my blood and I did this for me, for them...for America.
Holding my breath...
And waiting for Consumer Companies to release Q3 results.
We just had a synthetic increase of 900 points on the Dow. Well, it's like a rubber band snap. The nose dive was based on fear, so this is just an elastic snap of folks saying, "whew, I was scared of nothing."
Nothing is going to turn into something over the next week when consumer Companies such as Johnson & Johnson release their Q3 earnings.
We shall wait and see what happens.
We just had a synthetic increase of 900 points on the Dow. Well, it's like a rubber band snap. The nose dive was based on fear, so this is just an elastic snap of folks saying, "whew, I was scared of nothing."
Nothing is going to turn into something over the next week when consumer Companies such as Johnson & Johnson release their Q3 earnings.
We shall wait and see what happens.
10.13.2008
Help me to Help America
I'm pretty passionate about this presidential election. I believe in Obama like nobody's business. We are in the last leg of this presidential race and it is essential that we keep supporting Obama, especially as he battles McCain in the traditionally 'red states'.
With that in mind, I set up a fundraising page on My Barack Obama.com and I'm requesting that you donate a lil' something. $5? $2? $50 bucks? I usually donate once a paycheck period...so please HELP ME TO HELP AMERICA!!!
With that in mind, I set up a fundraising page on My Barack Obama.com and I'm requesting that you donate a lil' something. $5? $2? $50 bucks? I usually donate once a paycheck period...so please HELP ME TO HELP AMERICA!!!
Trapped
I've heard of women trying to 'trap,' a man. Aka - getting pregnant on purpose.
Have you ever heard of a man trying to trap a woman?
Have you ever heard of a man trying to trap a woman?
10.12.2008
Dear Bigots,
Arab and Muslim are no more derogatory than American and Christian.
Your ignorance is showing, please try to correct it. It's highly offensive to me.
Thanks,
SunFresh.
Your ignorance is showing, please try to correct it. It's highly offensive to me.
Thanks,
SunFresh.
Baby Steps
I won't go into how this year was one that turned me upside down. I've had to take a lot of time off trying to heal, love myself make me whole again.
My biggest flaw is being self critical, to an almost paralyzing point. It's not a new quality by any means, I grounded myself the first time that I ever received a B on a report card. I eased up on myself by college, cuz a B was a good thing at that point.
So with a lot of the relationships that were broken, I took it out on me. I blamed me for the failures. But as we all know, a lot of times failed relationships fail because both parties cannot get their act together.
Forgiving myself has given me a new found peace and appreciation for...me. Unfortunately, I've become selfish with my time with me. My next step will be to engage in relationships with others...but baby steps.
This weekend was rather triumphant for me. How so? Baby Steps. I've become an avid coffee drinker. At work, before I open my e-mail I run upstairs to get coffee. Sugar, non-dairy french vanilla creamer. But you know what I realized? I am 27 years old and did not know how to make coffee. Something that brings me so much pleasure (and unfortunately I've acquired a caffine addiction). So what did I do today? Went out, got a cheap Mr. Coffee 4-cup coffee maker and made my first pot of coffee. Baby steps.
Then I realized that I needed to get filters, coffee (durrrr), and creamer. While in the grocery store I came upon Plantains.
Plantains, oh dear plantains. The first time I that I ever tried to cook plantains was when I put together a feast for the ex (Lamb Shanks). The ex is Haitian, and I wanted to cook something that felt native to him. Ain't NOBODY ever tell me how to make them. I had had them in restaurants, and it seemed simple enough. Throw them in with some brown sugar, butter and cinnamon. So that's exactly what I intended to do. However, I had no concept about the consistency of a raw plantain. I figured that you peel them like a banana.. Imagine the horror as I broke a sweat trying to peel raw plantains. So I casually asked somebody how to make them and the secret that I never knew...you HAVE to boil them first to soften them up.
So I bought some plantains, boiled them until they were soft...who'd-a-thunk-it? The skin peeled right on off with the ease of a banana, post boil. I then threw them in a pan with sugar, cinnamon, butter and a touch of vanilla. Can we say YUM.
So far today, I've had a cup of coffee and plantains but I feel FULL. and I'm taking baby steps. I also played lots of Wii this morning. Golf is harder than it appears. Tennis is addictive. Baseball....I finally got the swing of things (literally @ Joe Biden).
Last night I hung out with Miracle Man. Chemistry...not so sure. I am convinced he has split personalities because some days he's affectionate and others he's luke warm. Last night was a luke warm night. Ehh - I think it really might be time to clean house and start over.
And woah is me, I go to the Mary J. Blige / Robin Thicke concert in T-3.5 hours with the Haitian ex. I might bring him along some plantain chips.
My biggest flaw is being self critical, to an almost paralyzing point. It's not a new quality by any means, I grounded myself the first time that I ever received a B on a report card. I eased up on myself by college, cuz a B was a good thing at that point.
So with a lot of the relationships that were broken, I took it out on me. I blamed me for the failures. But as we all know, a lot of times failed relationships fail because both parties cannot get their act together.
Forgiving myself has given me a new found peace and appreciation for...me. Unfortunately, I've become selfish with my time with me. My next step will be to engage in relationships with others...but baby steps.
This weekend was rather triumphant for me. How so? Baby Steps. I've become an avid coffee drinker. At work, before I open my e-mail I run upstairs to get coffee. Sugar, non-dairy french vanilla creamer. But you know what I realized? I am 27 years old and did not know how to make coffee. Something that brings me so much pleasure (and unfortunately I've acquired a caffine addiction). So what did I do today? Went out, got a cheap Mr. Coffee 4-cup coffee maker and made my first pot of coffee. Baby steps.
Then I realized that I needed to get filters, coffee (durrrr), and creamer. While in the grocery store I came upon Plantains.
Plantains, oh dear plantains. The first time I that I ever tried to cook plantains was when I put together a feast for the ex (Lamb Shanks). The ex is Haitian, and I wanted to cook something that felt native to him. Ain't NOBODY ever tell me how to make them. I had had them in restaurants, and it seemed simple enough. Throw them in with some brown sugar, butter and cinnamon. So that's exactly what I intended to do. However, I had no concept about the consistency of a raw plantain. I figured that you peel them like a banana.. Imagine the horror as I broke a sweat trying to peel raw plantains. So I casually asked somebody how to make them and the secret that I never knew...you HAVE to boil them first to soften them up.
So I bought some plantains, boiled them until they were soft...who'd-a-thunk-it? The skin peeled right on off with the ease of a banana, post boil. I then threw them in a pan with sugar, cinnamon, butter and a touch of vanilla. Can we say YUM.
So far today, I've had a cup of coffee and plantains but I feel FULL. and I'm taking baby steps. I also played lots of Wii this morning. Golf is harder than it appears. Tennis is addictive. Baseball....I finally got the swing of things (literally @ Joe Biden).
Last night I hung out with Miracle Man. Chemistry...not so sure. I am convinced he has split personalities because some days he's affectionate and others he's luke warm. Last night was a luke warm night. Ehh - I think it really might be time to clean house and start over.
And woah is me, I go to the Mary J. Blige / Robin Thicke concert in T-3.5 hours with the Haitian ex. I might bring him along some plantain chips.
Desperate times call for desperate measures
I was talking to my white gay boyfriend about the election. He is convinced that Obama has it in the bag. And I confessed my fear that the Bradley effect will smack us in the face with a nasty surprise. He agreed that a month ago, he didn't think a black man could win; however, he said that the quasi-racist white men are finally putting their fear of losing their job/wealth ahead of race. He said, and I quote, "I mean SunFresh, Desperate times call for Desperate Measures."
What I want...
It's fall, the weather starts getting cooler and there's nothing better than...
snuggling up on a weekend morning with the windows open. You might not get out of bed until hunger begs you too. You might watch the Sunday morning talk shows.
you are sitting at work and flashback to 'last night,' and start sheepishly grinning.
random things remind you of them
you see something you want to do and immediately think of how fun it's going to be with them.
you don't particularly like a certain food/drink/???, but you're out and about missing your boo and have a lil' just to feel closer to them.
I want that type of love.
snuggling up on a weekend morning with the windows open. You might not get out of bed until hunger begs you too. You might watch the Sunday morning talk shows.
you are sitting at work and flashback to 'last night,' and start sheepishly grinning.
random things remind you of them
you see something you want to do and immediately think of how fun it's going to be with them.
you don't particularly like a certain food/drink/???, but you're out and about missing your boo and have a lil' just to feel closer to them.
I want that type of love.
10.10.2008
10.09.2008
Encounters
Have you ever had a run-in with racism?
I was called a nigger on the playground when I was 8.
That's my story.
I was called a nigger on the playground when I was 8.
That's my story.
I love getting to know...ME
One major thing I learned about myself is that my memory SUCKS. I'll forget a name, date, ect within an hour. But I remember the colors, the smells, the tastes, the feeling that I have. I have always tried to communicate how much of a sensual person I am. Most confuse this for sexual. Like all the paintings I saw while in Madrid, the few that I fell in love with made me feel something, evoked an emotional response. I saw texture in the paintings, placed myself in the paintings.
Even when talking to the guys I date, I have a LOT of trouble feeling a connection if he doesn't show any vulnerability.
ANGELA BASSET + ER = I'll be watching it religiously this year.
Even when talking to the guys I date, I have a LOT of trouble feeling a connection if he doesn't show any vulnerability.
ANGELA BASSET + ER = I'll be watching it religiously this year.
10.08.2008
Sorry Folks...but it was funny. #27 - That One
On another tmi note...got dayum why on the one rainy day does mother nature have to deliver me a punch to the stomach and head? C'mon...Mercy please.
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