Good morning!

Awhile ago Doug and I went to see the movie “The Tourist”. With stars such as Angelina Jolie and especially Johnny Depp, whom I love in any movie, we couldn’t resist. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it was not a great flick.

However, in the movie, while riding the train, “Frank”, (Depp), tells “Elise” (Jolie) that he is smoking an “e cigarette”. To which Elise replies, “I’d rather you be a man who did exactly as he pleased.” I do love that line …but wait…back up…

…Wha’at? An “e cigarette”! Does this really exist? And just exactly what are these vapor sticks?

Interested? Here’s what one of my sources sent me:

“Are E-Cigarettes Better For Your Health? And Why are E-Cig Companies Giving Them Away?”

As part of a new series: “E-Cig science” we examine consumer tips for dieting during a recession

*Mentioned E-Cigarettes Were Provided By: “Direct E-Cig™ E-Cigarette”

We investigate the truth behind this new technological breakthrough.

Electronic cigarettes have recently grabbed the attention of countless tobacco users across the United States. Also known as the “E-Cigarette,” these groundbreaking devices are raising a lot of eyebrows. Are they really a healthier and cheaper alternative to traditional cigarettes? Creators say these devices are very different from the traditional cigarette, and thousands of smokers have already made the switch with hopes the device will be better for their health. But can this clever looking contraption live up to all the hype? Is there any scientific evidence that electronic cigarettes truly are the #1 smoking alternative?

When we first inspected the electronic cigarette, it was easy to see that the device in fact does look and feel like a traditional cigarette. Creators and product users are claiming that you can now enjoy a healthier cigarette without the bad smells, second-hand smoke, or cancer causing chemicals. Plus they claim you can still get your nicotine fix. Sounds almost too good to be true right? That’s what we thought as well. So we had our own Vanessa Michaels test these incredible claims. And the results, to say the least, were very shocking. Here are just a few of the benefits that Direct E-Cig™ electronic cigarettes have been claiming on their website:

• No tar, tobacco, carbon monoxide, or ash.
• Get the same amount of nicotine as a regular cigarette.
• Each cartridge costs less than $2 and is equivalent to an entire pack of cigarettes.
• You can save over $1,000 each year.
• You won’t “smell” like a smoker any longer.
• Different flavors are available.
• No more second-hand smoke.

When Vanessa received her electronic cigarette trial kit, she passed the device around so everyone could take a closer look. Sure enough, the product looked and felt like a cigarette. The device was also very well made and seemed safe to use. When Vanessa took her first few drags on the device, we all stared in amazement. It looked like Vanessa was smoking in the office, but with one huge difference. There was no tobacco smell and no second-hand smoke. Just a harmless vapor.

We were also able to confirm the money savings claims. Each cartridge was equivalent to approximately 1 pack of cigarettes at a cost of only a couple of dollars each, meaning that smokers who smoke 1 pack per day can easily save over $1,000 per year. Since the device satisfied Vanessa’s nicotine cravings, we knew that we had found a product that actually works.

We decided to research exactly what expert medical doctors and product users had to say about Direct E-Cig™ electronic cigarettes. The results were surprising. In fact, the United Health Organization concluded that “In the short time that electronic cigarettes have become popular, the number of people who have been able to quit smoking and stay cigarette free have risen by an estimated 300%. No other methodology has proven so successful in such a short period of time.”

A New U.S. Health Trend?

Four very well known doctors, from the popular TV show “The Doctors”, have shared great insight with us on the topic of the electronic cigarette. The electronic cigarette was featured as one of their top 10 key health trends for 2009.

“The greatest issue with cigarettes is the 500+ other ingredients added, not just the nicotine. Do we recommend this for non-smokers? Of course not, but for current smokers this is the most revolutionary device to date” - Dr. Travis Stork

None of the doctors on the show are smokers, so they used a female smoker, Beverly, as a case study. Beverly had struggled with smoking for 15 years. By day 2, this former “heavy smoker” had eliminated the use of regular cigarettes all together, and was pleased to report that she now only uses her electronic cigarette. She admits that the E-Cigarette is very satisfying and definitely recommends it to other smokers.

How Does The Direct E-Cig™ E-Cigarette Work?

Technology has enabled engineers to create a safer cigarette for everyone. Using the device is simple enough. If you know how to smoke a regular cigarette, then you’ll know how to smoke an electronic cigarette.

A Look Inside The Electronic Cigarette Here’s a simplified explanation of the 4 step process that occurs when you enjoy an electronic cigarette:

• Step #1: A flow sensor will detect that air is traveling through the e-cigarette when the user inhales.
• Step #2:Liquid nicotine and flavoring contained in the cartridge goes into the atomization chamber while the Smart Chip controls the amount.
• Step #3:The Heating Vapor Coil “atomizes” the liquid creating a rich vapor very similar to smoke. While this vapor is enjoyed, the indicator light is signaled.
• Step #4: When the smoker finishes inhaling, the LED in the indicator light fades out. The smoker is free to partake in additional drags on the device.

We are pleased to report that all of this occurs in an extremely safe manner. In fact, it is virtually impossible to unintentionally start a fire with an electronic cigarette, another huge benefit that can potentially save lives.

Smoking In Banned Locations

As part of our in-depth investigation, we wanted to study if e-cigarette users would be able to actually smoke an e-cigarette in locations that have been off-limits to smokers like public offices, restaraunts, librarys, etc. We learned that these new devices are not encompassed by most smoking bans and regulations. This is because an e-cigarette are not lit by flame, and no harmful smoke is produced. The smoke you see is simply a harmless vapor mist. In fact, some airports and hospitals have even welcomed indoor electronic cigarette smoking enthusiastically. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that you might catch grief from some security guards or other public building managers.

Many employeers are now even allowing e-cigarette use in the office

Because e-cigarettes do not produce second hand smoke, there is no public health hazard to smoking them in public areas. And there are lowered personal risks to you. We have interviewed many users who report that they are able to smoke in more places and get that same ‘nicotine fix’ they crave. Many of them have completely given up traditional cigarettes…

We have found Direct E-Cig™ to be one of the most trusted and quality suppliers of electronic cigarettes from all the companies we’ve researched. Customer reviews have been consistently positive and Direct E-Cig™ is so confident in their product that they are offering our readers a special Risk-Free* Trial Offer. Click Here to access this exclusive offer. We thank Direct E-Cig™ for providing smokers with the opportunity to try out this product before they buy. We encourage all of our readers who currently smoke to give the electronic cigarette a try for their health, and for the health of their friends, families, and co-workers.

PEACE OUT.

Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.

Gratefully your blog host,

michelle

Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)

If you love my blog and my writes, please make a donation via PayPal, credit card, or e-check, please click the “Donate” button below. (Please only donations from those readers within the United States. – International readers please see my “Donate” page)

Or if you would like to send a check via snail mail, please make checks payable to “Michelle Moquin”, and send to:

Michelle Moquin PO Box 29235 San Francisco, Ca. 94129

Thank you for your loyal support!

For archives dated before January 17, 2008 click on my Blogroll:

or click here: “A Day in the life of…”

All content on this site are property of Michelle Moquin © copyright 2010

" Politics, god, Life, News, Music, Family, Personal, Travel, Random, Photography, Religion, Aliens, Art, Entertainment, Food, Books, Thoughts, Media, Culture, Love, Sex, Poetry, Prose, Friends, Technology, Humor, Health, Writing, Events, Movies, Sports, Video, Christianity, Atheist, Blogging, History, Work, Education, Business, Fashion, Barack Obama, People, Internet, Relationships, Faith, Photos, Videos, Hillary Clinton, School, Reviews, God, TV, Philosophy, Fun, Science, Environment, Design, The Page, Rants, Pictures, Church, Blog, Nature, Marketing, Television, Democrats, Parenting, Miscellaneous, Current Events, Film, Spirituality, Obama, Musings, Home, Human Rights, Society, Comedy, Me, Random Thoughts, Research, Government, Election 2008, Baseball, Opinion, Recipes, Children, Iraq, Funny, Women, Economics, America, Misc, Commentary, John McCain, Reflections, All, Celebrities, Inspiration, Lifestyle, Theology, Linux, Kids, Games, World, India, Literature, China, Ramblings, Fitness, Money, Review, War, Articles, Economy, Journal, Quotes, NBA, Crime, Anime, Islam, 2008, Stories, Prayer, Diary, Jesus, Buddha, Muslim, Israel, Europe, Links, Marriage, Fiction, American Idol, Software, Leadership, Pop culture, Rants, Video Games, Republicans, Updates, Political, Football, Healing, Blogs, Shopping, USA, Class, Matrix, Course, Work, Web 2.0, My Life, Psychology, Gay, Happiness, Advertising, Field Hockey, Hip-hop, sex, fucking, ass, Soccer, sox"

Good morning!

Happiness ‘is about earning more than your friends’

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Money doesn’t buy happiness – unless you earn more of it than your friends.

A study of life satisfaction in dozens of countries found that contrary to popular perception, economic growth doesn’t bring with it a corresponding long-term rise in happiness.

It found that while people may feel more positive in the short-term, the shine quickly wears off.

Can money buy happiness? For a short while and if you have more than your friends, according to new research.

However, within an individual country, the rich are happier than the poor.

This implies that what matters is earning more than others, not the actual amount earned, the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reports.

The theory was first coined in the 1970s by U.S. researcher Richard Easterlin and became known as the Easterlin Paradox.

With several recent studies challenging his conclusions, Professor Easterlin set out to see if the pattern still exists.

Family fortunes: Happiness and financial security can be directly linked, but not in the long term.

After crunching together figures from 37 countries around the globe including burgeoning economies such as China, South Korea and Chile, the University of Southern California professor said little had changed.

He said: ‘Simply stated, the happiness-income paradox is this: at a point in time both among and within countries, happiness and income are positively correlated.

‘But, over time, happiness does not increase when a person’s income increases.’

He added: ‘China’s growth rate implies a doubling of real per capita income in less than 10 years, and Chile’s in 18 years.

‘Yet both China and Chile show mild declines in life satisfaction.’

*********

Readers: What do you think about what this article states? I was just having a conversation with an old friend last night. He was telling me of his recent trip to Africa, and I was sharing my travels that I took with Doug to Nepal many years ago. I said to him that I found it very humbling, and quite moving to be in a country that had very little…to be sharing dinner with people in their home where they have one couch, a table and a poster on their wall…very little material objects, living in poverty, and yet filled with pride, joy and love.

The poorest person living in America is rich compared to the people we met in Nepal, and many other places in the world. And yet their state of happiness is so much greater.

Someone once said to me, “Your friends will only be happy for your success as long as it doesn’t surpass their own.”  I have had a debate over the years with several people who don’t think that statement is true. But I have seen and experienced the reaction of people over my successes, and the success of others who have surpassed their friends in the income arena.

When everyone surrounding you, including all of your friends and family have as little as you, as I discovered in Nepal…where there is no competition to “have more”, to “achieve more”, and where there are no promises of “anything more”…where spirituality, community, and connectedness holds a greater value, than frivolous material needs, people are actually more satisfied and happy.

We in America are filled with the promise of more – we have these continually dangling “carrots” in our faces of what life could be like if we had more money. Promises of wealth all over the television, magazines, etc., and people/friends who do have more money flaunt it to their friends that don’t, in essence saying, “I am more successful than you. I make more money than you. I can buy things, do things, go places etc., that you can’t.”

So yes, I do think that for many “happiness is earning more than your friends.” Would very wealthy people be just as happy if everyone else was just as wealthy? I don’t think so. Otherwise they would help people reach a greater wealth status instead of the norm of the very wealthy trying to keep it for them and theirs and continually preventing others from getting a chance at achieving a fair share. Racism aside. The Tax Law comes to mind here.

Or ask this: Does their money make them happy, or does it make them happy because they have great wealth and so many don’t, giving them an edge above others? Do you think that if everyone were equally rich, money would be a factor in their happiness? I don’t think so.  So the same could be true if you and everyone around you were poor, and there were no promise of anything more.

That’s my thoughts. What are yours? Blog me.

Doug: I always enjoy reading your thoughts and take on the subject matter.

Zen Lill: Your drama sounds crazy. I HOPE that you really are okay.

Pi: I enjoyed reading your thoughts. Thank you.

Uma: So what are you waiting for? Send ‘em the link. :)

Lincoln: What a lovely comment to read. I do know that there are men out there who do value their females; I just wish that it was more prevalent and worldwide. Sadly, from what I have seen and experienced myself, men unfortunately realize the value of their woman when it is too late. I am happy to hear that you acknowledge, appreciate, and value  your wife now. And no doubt she experiences the value that you see in her through your actions. Congratulations on your successful marriage.  I wish the best for both of you.

Reba: That icon is for people who would like to add my write to their blog, website, or to their FaceBook page etc. You must be set up with a “twitter” account to do this.  Click on “twitter” in the previous sentence to learn about Twitter, or go to the right hand column of my blog, about half way down, and click on “Twitter – Join the conversation” to sign up.

S: Thank you. But why not share who you are? I can only guess from the initial but then that may not be the initial to your first name. What’s the big deal?

Got to run…

Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.

Gratefully your blog host,

michelle

Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)

If you love my blog and my writes, please make a donation via PayPal, credit card, or e-check, please click the “Donate” button below. (Please only donations from those readers within the United States. – International readers please see my “Donate” page)

Or if you would like to send a check via snail mail, please make checks payable to “Michelle Moquin”, and send to:

Michelle Moquin PO Box 29235 San Francisco, Ca. 94129

Thank you for your loyal support!

For archives dated before January 17, 2008 click on my Blogroll:

or click here: “A Day in the life of…”

All content on this site are property of Michelle Moquin © copyright 2010

“ Politics, god, Life, News, Music, Family, Personal, Travel, Random, Photography, Religion, Aliens, Art, Entertainment, Food, Books, Thoughts, Media, Culture, Love, Sex, Poetry, Prose, Friends, Technology, Humor, Health, Writing, Events, Movies, Sports, Video, Christianity, Atheist, Blogging, History, Work, Education, Business, Fashion, Barack Obama, People, Internet, Relationships, Faith, Photos, Videos, Hillary Clinton, School, Reviews, God, TV, Philosophy, Fun, Science, Environment, Design, The Page, Rants, Pictures, Church, Blog, Nature, Marketing, Television, Democrats, Parenting, Miscellaneous, Current Events, Film, Spirituality, Obama, Musings, Home, Human Rights, Society, Comedy, Me, Random Thoughts, Research, Government, Election 2008, Baseball, Opinion, Recipes, Children, Iraq, Funny, Women, Economics, America, Misc, Commentary, John McCain, Reflections, All, Celebrities, Inspiration, Lifestyle, Theology, Linux, Kids, Games, World, India, Literature, China, Ramblings, Fitness, Money, Review, War, Articles, Economy, Journal, Quotes, NBA, Crime, Anime, Islam, 2008, Stories, Prayer, Diary, Jesus, Buddha, Muslim, Israel, Europe, Links, Marriage, Fiction, American Idol, Software, Leadership, Pop culture, Rants, Video Games, Republicans, Updates, Political, Football, Healing, Blogs, Shopping, USA, Class, Matrix, Course, Work, Web 2.0, My Life, Psychology, Gay, Happiness, Advertising, Field Hockey, Hip-hop, sex, fucking, ass, Soccer, sox“

I was driving to my mother’s house the other day and decided on the way to listen to NPR. Amy Goodman from Democracy Now was interviewing John Feal, a 9/11 first responder, and the president of the FealGood Foundation.

Lately, I haven’t been following the news in regards to the medical compensation to the thousands of first responders. But when I listened to Feal speak of his experiences, it was no surprise that I found myself in tears listening to his interview. Because of the lack of medical compensation to thousands of 9/11 first responders exposed to toxic substances at Ground Zero, many have died. Nine years later, no compensation and more deaths.

“I’ve Been to 44 Funerals in the Last 4 1/2 Years”

-9/11 First Responder John Feal Calls on Senate to Pass Zadroga Bill

The culprits behind these men and women being refused compensation are, no surprise, the party of “no” Republicans.

“More than nine years after the September 11th attacks, the Senate may be on the verge of finally voting on legislation that would grant $6.2 billion medical coverage and compensation to thousands of 9/11 first responders exposed to toxic substances at Ground Zero. The House passed a $7.4 billion version of the bill in September. But the Senate version has been held up by a Republican filibuster. We speak with John Feal, a former construction worker and 9/11 first responder.”

Republican Senator Tom Coburn of Oklahoma, aka: “Dr Coburn”,  has said that he’ll likely block the measure again. Speaking on Fox News on Tuesday, he said the Senate needs time to consider the bill.

They had nine years to get this bill passed. The amount of compensation this bill would grant has been diminished, more lives are being lost, and he wants more time. I bet if a member of his family was suffering, time would be of the essence.

Well, good news! Thankfully a few days ago, because of a lot of hard work, strong leadership and determination, this bill finally passed!

Readers: Kudos to all of those mentioned above, and in my opinion, even bigger kudos to Jon Stewart from The Daily Show! On December 17th Stewart dedicated his entire last show of the year to discussing the 9/11 First Responders Bill.  It looks like their passion for getting this bill passed finally paid off.

*************

Anna & Peter of Guam, all the Chamorros, and all my overseas friends:

Merry Christmas!

Sam: Congratulations to you! And yeah, some “friend”. Peace.

Anon: I don’t know; I’ll have to ask him. I’ll let you know. In the mean time, everyone knows I am a girl’s girl, so I see harm in flirting. :)

Bob: Hilarious!! Loved it!

Nathlie: Thank you. And I wish a happy holiday for all of you as well!

It’s Friday….I’m done flapping my lips – start flapping yours.

JOY & PEACE

Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.

Gratefully your blog host,

michelle

Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)

If you love my blog and my writes, please make a donation via PayPal, credit card, or e-check, please click the “Donate” button below. (Please only donations from those readers within the United States. – International readers please see my “Donate” page)

Or if you would like to send a check via snail mail, please make checks payable to “Michelle Moquin”, and send to:

Michelle Moquin PO Box 29235 San Francisco, Ca. 94129

Thank you for your loyal support!

For archives dated before January 17, 2008 click on my Blogroll:

or click here: “A Day in the life of…”

All content on this site are property of Michelle Moquin © copyright 2010

" Politics, god, Life, News, Music, Family, Personal, Travel, Random, Photography, Religion, Aliens, Art, Entertainment, Food, Books, Thoughts, Media, Culture, Love, Sex, Poetry, Prose, Friends, Technology, Humor, Health, Writing, Events, Movies, Sports, Video, Christianity, Atheist, Blogging, History, Work, Education, Business, Fashion, Barack Obama, People, Internet, Relationships, Faith, Photos, Videos, Hillary Clinton, School, Reviews, God, TV, Philosophy, Fun, Science, Environment, Design, The Page, Rants, Pictures, Church, Blog, Nature, Marketing, Television, Democrats, Parenting, Miscellaneous, Current Events, Film, Spirituality, Obama, Musings, Home, Human Rights, Society, Comedy, Me, Random Thoughts, Research, Government, Election 2008, Baseball, Opinion, Recipes, Children, Iraq, Funny, Women, Economics, America, Misc, Commentary, John McCain, Reflections, All, Celebrities, Inspiration, Lifestyle, Theology, Linux, Kids, Games, World, India, Literature, China, Ramblings, Fitness, Money, Review, War, Articles, Economy, Journal, Quotes, NBA, Crime, Anime, Islam, 2008, Stories, Prayer, Diary, Jesus, Buddha, Muslim, Israel, Europe, Links, Marriage, Fiction, American Idol, Software, Leadership, Pop culture, Rants, Video Games, Republicans, Updates, Political, Football, Healing, Blogs, Shopping, USA, Class, Matrix, Course, Work, Web 2.0, My Life, Psychology, Gay, Happiness, Advertising, Field Hockey, Hip-hop, sex, fucking, ass, Soccer, sox"

Good morning!

So…has anyone been watching Rachel Maddow’s “Leadership in America” live show @ 92Y the past two days? Last night she interviewed Michael Moore. If you didn’t catch the segment, here it is.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Readers: I haven’t blogged about Wikileaks at all here, and it has been one of the hot topics in the media. What has been on your mind in respect to all of the chatter? Do you agree Moore in regards to full disclosure of our government? What do you think of the date rape charges against Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks?

I can say one thing, I loved what Michael Moore had to say about supporting women who have been raped and abused in our society. I wish there were more men like him that would stand up and fight in support of the plight.

And almost last but certainly not least, I want to recognize that Obama signed the appeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. Yay! – This is a day for celebration!

I tried to post the video of Obama’s speech but unfortunately had no luck. Click here to see.

Thoughts?  You know what to do – Blog me.

Anonymous: Well…in regards to the compliments, all I can say is…Thank you - a girl loves to be recognized and appreciated. As far as what you would like to do….all is can say is…Stand in line. :)

Morris: Okay. I hear you. “Maybe” I will be, as Lloyd puts it, “forthcoming with the 411″, the next time I’m “going to a party at…”.  HOPE is always good. I speak of HOPE a lot here, so I guess there is no reason why my readers can’t HOPE too. :) Season’s Greeting to you as well!

Bob: Oh, I laughed at that one, but I know I shouldn’t.

Peter: Gee, I wonder why anyone would try to veto a bill that would protect children from abuse? Sickening. Just when will that Cardinal be ousted? Hafa Adai.

Terri: That has never stopped any man from trying.

PEacE OUt…

Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.

Gratefully your blog host,

michelle

Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)

If you love my blog and my writes, please make a donation via PayPal, credit card, or e-check, please click the “Donate” button below. (Please only donations from those readers within the United States. – International readers please see my “Donate” page)

Or if you would like to send a check via snail mail, please make checks payable to “Michelle Moquin”, and send to:

Michelle Moquin PO Box 29235 San Francisco, Ca. 94129

Thank you for your loyal support!

For archives dated before January 17, 2008 click on my Blogroll:

or click here: “A Day in the life of…”

All content on this site are property of Michelle Moquin © copyright 2010

" Politics, god, Life, News, Music, Family, Personal, Travel, Random, Photography, Religion, Aliens, Art, Entertainment, Food, Books, Thoughts, Media, Culture, Love, Sex, Poetry, Prose, Friends, Technology, Humor, Health, Writing, Events, Movies, Sports, Video, Christianity, Atheist, Blogging, History, Work, Education, Business, Fashion, Barack Obama, People, Internet, Relationships, Faith, Photos, Videos, Hillary Clinton, School, Reviews, God, TV, Philosophy, Fun, Science, Environment, Design, The Page, Rants, Pictures, Church, Blog, Nature, Marketing, Television, Democrats, Parenting, Miscellaneous, Current Events, Film, Spirituality, Obama, Musings, Home, Human Rights, Society, Comedy, Me, Random Thoughts, Research, Government, Election 2008, Baseball, Opinion, Recipes, Children, Iraq, Funny, Women, Economics, America, Misc, Commentary, John McCain, Reflections, All, Celebrities, Inspiration, Lifestyle, Theology, Linux, Kids, Games, World, India, Literature, China, Ramblings, Fitness, Money, Review, War, Articles, Economy, Journal, Quotes, NBA, Crime, Anime, Islam, 2008, Stories, Prayer, Diary, Jesus, Buddha, Muslim, Israel, Europe, Links, Marriage, Fiction, American Idol, Software, Leadership, Pop culture, Rants, Video Games, Republicans, Updates, Political, Football, Healing, Blogs, Shopping, USA, Class, Matrix, Course, Work, Web 2.0, My Life, Psychology, Gay, Happiness, Advertising, Field Hockey, Hip-hop, sex, fucking, ass, Soccer, sox"

Excuse me…but how is any of this Obama’s fault?!

I don’t know if I am more angry with people who stayed home and didn’t vote (They were just plain stupid), or those who are pissed off at Obama because they claim, “He’s not doing anything about it” ? (extending the tax cuts to the rich) To me, these are truly the ignorant ones.

Now, just exactly what is Obama supposed to do? He doesn’t have a vote and he certainly is not a dictator. He is listening to the voice of the people and the people have spoken. They have chosen who they wanted to be in the driver’s seat. He is certainly not the driver.

“Oh but wait!”, you may say, “The Republicans don’t have control of the House yet.”

No they don’t, but as usual the Dems are stupid. They are giving the Republicans deference by acquiescing to their wishes, instead of sticking together and fighting in the Good ‘ol Republican way. (Will we ever learn?) You know if the tables were turned the Repubs would just pass whatever they wanted to and left it to the new House to repeal it if they could get the votes.

But what we have is the stupidity of the Democrats, not to mention a lack of support for Obama: The support that Obama has from white Dems in the house is practically nil when it comes to race politics. That’s really what it all comes down to, once again: The color of one’s skin.

Unemployment is above 9%. When this bill passes, which it looks like it will, unemployment benefits will only be extended through 2011.

“The bill would keep the programs going through 2011, meaning people laid off at the beginning of 2010 would be able to receive up to 99 weeks of benefits.”

Just what do you think will happen when this extended period is over and the Republicans have control of the House? I’ll tell you what will happen. “Hold your hand up and wave “bye bye” to any proposal to get those benefits extended even further even though unemployment will most likely remain above 9%.” There is no way reauthorization a year from now will happen in a Republican-controlled House. No way in hell.

And more than likely in the 2012 presidential election, and a Republican-controlled House, the tax cuts for the rich will be extended again, because the Republicans will see to it that they get their way.

We made our bed this past election. We have no room to complain. The people voted in the Republicans. And if they didn’t vote for the Republicans they did so by default when they were too lazy to get to the polls and support Obama.

So guess what? We got exactly what we were expecting to get. The Republicans are doing what they said they were going to do. They said they didn’t want health care, (and now a key part of the health care law has been ruled unconstitutional. You guess it. By a Federal judge who was appointed by a Republican administration) they said they didn’t want to regulate business (Did you read Ellie’s comment?) – And in regards to the topic of today, they said they would give the rich a tax break. And they are living up to their word. No surprise, yet everyone who is pissed off, is blaming Obama. How Illogical is that?

In my opinion, the American people have spoken loud and clear. They wanted those who got us in this wreck in the first place to continue driving bad. And not just bad, but drunk. Drunk on their greed. The dems didn’t vote and essentially handed back the keys to a drunk driver who is about to get out there again and run our country recklessly. And this time I’m not sure that we can prevent the damage that is about to happen.

Like I said, Obama is not a dictator. Obama is just the policeman at the light saying, “We need better drivers. I’ll give you a better street… better health insurance., etc.”  Obama is not the driver. Remember, we picked the drivers. We handed the Republicans the keys to our country.

It’s clear and simple: The Republicans stick together not matter what. If they win they take and do whatever they want – no compromise, no bipartisanship. If they lose, they do everything they can to prevent progress, and Obama becoming successful. And they scream at the dems when they feel that they aren’t willing to work together with them.

Remember back in august of 2009 when we were trying to pass health care? I  blogged about it. We only needed 50 votes + a thumbs up from VP Biden. And if the repblicans filibustered, we would need 60. But that wasn’t enough for them. Several Republicans were insisting on a bipartisan bill and saying that in order for health care to be bipartisan, the bill needed to have 75-80 senators supporting it.(!) There they go changing the rules…anything to get what they want.

But when the Republicans are getting their 50 needed votes to pass a bill, do you think they would even consider if we asked the same thing of them? Hell no.

Their moto is “It’s my way or no way”. And if they have to lie, steal, and cheat their way back into the White House they will do and say whatever they need to, in order to get back their power. And once they are there, no other agenda matters but their own. Once again, (Thanks for the reminder Peter), “justice” means “Just us”.

We lost 63 seats in the House last November!

“Republicans made a net gain of 63 seats from Democrats and retook control of the chamber, which they lost in the 2006 midterm elections. With this election, the Republicans wiped out the gains the Democrats made in 2006 and 2008 and picked up additional seats, making it the highest of any House victory for a single party since 1948, and the highest of any midterm election since 1938.”

And it’s Obama’s fault that the rich are getting a tax break?! Give me a break. It’s easy to take the easy route and blame Obama. The more difficult route is explaining to the Democratic voters how they screwed up and “why” this is happening.

This is a letter that I received in my e-mail, that I thought I would pass along. I apologize that I presently don’t have the name of the author.

Begin forwarded message:
>> Sent: Fri, Nov 5, 2010 8:50 pm
>> Subject: Stop judging the willing slaves…

>> Well, well, well. I am still hearing folk whining about the dems not staying in touch with their ‘base’ and so the ‘base’ didn’t bother to go to the polls to vote them back into office. And, yes, these election results were considered a referendum on the Obama administration.
>>
>> The saddest part of all of this is that I am reminded of the Emancipation of Slaves. All the slaves did not wish to be freed. They preferred the security of the status quo over the uncertainties that a future of freedom and self-determination held for them. And so, some chose to ‘wait out’ the opportunity to exercise their freedom option—wait until the future came into clearer and even more positive focus. For the African-Americans who chose not to vote in the 2010 mid-term election or who decided to vote for Republicans out of spite, I say you need not ever criticize the slaves who considered certainty of a sad status over the uncertainty of a better life—in the future. These folk also remind me of children who must have immediate gratification to quiet the threat of tantrums, because they don’t understand the concept of ‘soon’ or ‘later’.
>>
>> I had a stressful job in my career that required every ‘spare’ moment of my time. While trying to build something that was worthwhile, I was confronted with obstacles that were erected by folk who had no vision and therefore no patience nor penchant for working harder—folk who felt advantaged by having to perform at minimum standards or less without challenge. Any minutes that I could eke out of my day was applied to trying to keep me healthy in mind, body and soul. Stress is a bear.
>>
>> I mention this because my little part of the world was like a microscopic organism compared to what Obama has had to deal with since he took office. Sure, not all of the Democrats deserved to be returned to office. But for those who were to be ousted, there were others worthy of winning fresh terms over incumbent Republicans. How does President Obama feel to know he has to spend precious time ‘courting’ us continually lest we have a temper tantrum, suck our thumb and sulk? For women, particularly, who wait for husbands or boyfriends who are away fighting our wars, they know that they won’t hear from their loved ones often. But they do what they can on the homefront to support their common goals and families until their loved ones execute the assigned duties and hopefully return to them whole. Why can’t we do this for Obama. He has done us proud by going into all of his battles prepared. Now how hard is that! He has to know about everything in detail. So just how much tv do you think he gets to enjoy? He plays basketball for his health and wellbeing. Are we begrudging him that too? Oh, yes, so many blacks in the media or in positions of authority wanted him to continually thank them for ‘getting out the black vote’. Give me a break. We got on board his campaign late and now we consider ourselves his first on board. Who’s zoomin’ whom?
>>
>> So to all my e-buds who worked hard to turn out the vote for the most qualified and Obama-minded candidates, keep the faith. Good will prevail. The Republican dominated House is now in a position where they will have to be a bit more creative in their ability to play the shell game. However, I must admit that so much of the American public is functionally ignorant that the Republicans would consider themselves remiss not to continue to take advantage of their inability to receive, process and evaluate information.
>>
>> At any rate, the following e-mail that I received documents achievements of the Obama administration. Please make sure that any of those thumb-sucking, tantrum throwing eligible voters you know who chose not to vote gets the list. And I don’t think that the very solicitous President Obama would object to you rocking them back to sleep after they ‘wake up’ to read the list. Oh, and do help them put that thumb back in their mouth. Suckers.

***********

Readers: It’s Friday…start flapping your lips. Blog me.

Bob: Lol with that one!

Bai: As much as I hear what you are saying, I don’t buy the excuse. That is the problem that is happening all over the world. People don’t care about each other. They care only about money. China doesn’t care about killing us with poison infused products, and the U.S. doesn’t care enough about the plight of women to refuse to purchase oil in those countries who abuse women.

If we all cared about each other half as much as we do our money, we would refuse to do business with each other in manners that harm the people, the animals, and the planet. And the result of that would be great changes for the betterment and well being of all.

Someone, somewhere needs to take a stance and be an example. Who will it be? What country will it be? I was HOPEful that with Obama in office, we would be that country. I still have great faith in Obama, but it is clear, he doesn’t have the support he needs to be as great as his potential.

I would love to say more but time has run out.

Peace out.

Lastly, greed over a great story is surfacing from my “loyal”(?) readers. With all this back and forth about who owns what, that appears on my blog, let me reiterate that all material posted on my blog becomes the sole property of my blog. If you want to reserve any proprietary rights don’t post it to my blog. I will prominently display this caveat on my blog from now on to remind those who may have forgotten this notice.

Gratefully your blog host,

michelle

Aka BABE: We all know what this means by now :)

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