Hello.  It's me.  It's been a long time.  Guess I've not been that successful as a blogger ... perhaps the new year will bring change.    Well, at least I'll end 2012 with a post ...

Not sure what I want to say today.  I'm numb and still a bit angry about the election -- especially when we're all being pushed over the fiscal cliff.  What the hell does that mean anyway?  I see posts about Congress getting a raise, the rich being taxed more heavily, and the US going further into debt.   The system is definitely broken, wouldn't you say?

I don't know why the solution isn't an easy one.  You spend too much money?  You can't afford to pay the debt you have?  You stop spending!  You create a plan to reduce your debt while living more simply.  Don't tell me we don't have places to cut spending.  There are any number of programs, grants, and positions in the government that are frivolous.  I'm not saying we have to cut all programs, and I know that there are some that are truly needed, but we can't keep saying "yes" to spending.  The government needs a consumer credit counseling organization to pay down the debt and live within our means.   

Don't worry, we'll solve the financial crisis by taxing the rich.  They have more, so they can pay more, right?  Hell no.  I'm not rich -- far from it -- but what lesson does this teach?  Be successful and we'll make you pay for it!  What incentive is there to be successful if you keep less of your own money?  Should the rich be punished because they've managed their money well?  It just seems like the whole thing is a comedy.  Well, in this movie, I doubt the players will learn their lesson, and I doubt there'll be a happy ending.  I fear an ending more perilous than any cliff ...




2012 ...  It was the best of times, it was the worst of times ...  Actually, I don't think it was so bad (other than the election outcome), but there was a lot to celebrate.

I got a new knee and can walk without a limp for the first time in several years.

I got a new son-in-law and celebrated my daughter's wedding with my friends and family.

I celebrated my 25th wedding anniversary and my 50th birthday.






I have a wonderful job that I love, working with the best kids!
I have made new friends and celebrated with old friends.

We celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas in new places with wonderful family members.

My mom is an eight years and counting survivor of a lung transplant.
My dad is still going strong on the softball field and golf course!

My son is an amazing kid - and though he still lives here at home, he is a constant source of joy, love, and humor!

My kitty loves me - no matter what.  Don't know how we went so long without a pet!

And of course, there's the love of my life.  Dick is an amazing husband and father, and a talented teacher, director, actor, writer.  I'm thankful that he had the opportunity to do all that he loves this year ... yes, that includes playing poker! 

I'm always thinking, planning, learning ...  Fifty seems like a milestone, but there is so much more to do!

May you have a blessed 2013 filled with health, laughter, and love!

Linda