CLICK ON TITLE FOR THE NOT SO SURPRISING TRUTH.
More Muslims than Catholics....are we surprised? Hmmmm......NO!
This is the direction the world as we know it is heading.
But shouldn't we all just be embracing the Muslims and their religion? Oh, sure. Again, NO!
3/31/2008
3/28/2008
It's Snowing! But it's the end of March
32 degrees and snowing! The forecast calls for 1" accumulation, which is not too bad, but does not change the fact that it is SNOWING! I would rather be where our daughter is, in Arizona dealing with 80's and 90's...now that is awesome weather!
It won't last long I'm sure and will be melted as quickly as it came, and I must admit, it is pretty.
Now, getting around on crutches while walking BlackJack outside might be tricky, so I will just have to go very slow. I sure don't want to take a spill and hit the ground. Hopefully, just two more weeks of crutches..then maybe the Doctor will say I can get around without them.
Keeping my fingers crossed on that note.
It won't last long I'm sure and will be melted as quickly as it came, and I must admit, it is pretty.
Now, getting around on crutches while walking BlackJack outside might be tricky, so I will just have to go very slow. I sure don't want to take a spill and hit the ground. Hopefully, just two more weeks of crutches..then maybe the Doctor will say I can get around without them.
Keeping my fingers crossed on that note.
3/25/2008
No, They Are Not All 'Scumbags'
The following was sent to me by a friend and is a good case in point about my previous post. This is not the first case of fraud in the Anchorage area regarding Lenders and/or Realtors. Makes one question other cities across the nation.
I made a deragatory comment about realtors, and apologize for grouping them together. Certainly, there are decent agents and decent lenders. A good friend of mine was a real estate agent and she is indeed a person of integrity.
Real estate agent guilty of fraudAnchorage Daily News(03/25/08 00:28:52)
Anchorage real estate agent Michael Sorensen Jr. pleaded guilty to wire fraud in federal court on Monday and surrendered his real estate license, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.
Sorensen, 40, was an associate broker with ReMax Properties Inc. and also owned a local remodeling and construction company, Right Way Construction.
Federal prosecutors said Monday that Sorensen used the construction company to falsely inflate the sales price of local properties from 2004 to 2006 by submitting "false invoices" for repairs and remodeling to title companies, which then prepared false settlement statements reflecting work never done to the properties.
Mortgage companies relied on the false settlement statements when they wired money for the inflated loans to local title companies, according to prosecutors.
The mortgage companies were defrauded and the money that was supposedly used to pay for repairs was instead given back to the buyers in a so-called "cash-back" scheme. Sorensen's indictment in December listed six cash-back deals totaling $137,200 in bogus repairs. Sorensen benefited from the scheme by receiving a higher commission on the property sale, prosecutors said.
In his plea agreement, Sorensen has agreed to pay a fine that will at least equal the amount of commissions he received from the fraudulent deals, according to prosecutors.
His sentencing has been scheduled for May 30, and a maximum sentence could involve 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
I made a deragatory comment about realtors, and apologize for grouping them together. Certainly, there are decent agents and decent lenders. A good friend of mine was a real estate agent and she is indeed a person of integrity.
Real estate agent guilty of fraudAnchorage Daily News(03/25/08 00:28:52)
Anchorage real estate agent Michael Sorensen Jr. pleaded guilty to wire fraud in federal court on Monday and surrendered his real estate license, according to the U.S. Attorney's office.
Sorensen, 40, was an associate broker with ReMax Properties Inc. and also owned a local remodeling and construction company, Right Way Construction.
Federal prosecutors said Monday that Sorensen used the construction company to falsely inflate the sales price of local properties from 2004 to 2006 by submitting "false invoices" for repairs and remodeling to title companies, which then prepared false settlement statements reflecting work never done to the properties.
Mortgage companies relied on the false settlement statements when they wired money for the inflated loans to local title companies, according to prosecutors.
The mortgage companies were defrauded and the money that was supposedly used to pay for repairs was instead given back to the buyers in a so-called "cash-back" scheme. Sorensen's indictment in December listed six cash-back deals totaling $137,200 in bogus repairs. Sorensen benefited from the scheme by receiving a higher commission on the property sale, prosecutors said.
In his plea agreement, Sorensen has agreed to pay a fine that will at least equal the amount of commissions he received from the fraudulent deals, according to prosecutors.
His sentencing has been scheduled for May 30, and a maximum sentence could involve 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
3/24/2008
Now the Fed wants to help Homeowners?!
CLICK ON TITLE TO READ THE LATEST BULL
Let me get my horn! Too little, too late Mr. Chairman!
Where were these people back when unscrupulous lenders were putting people into houses they couldn't afford? Now that foreclosures have reached an alltime high with no end in sight.....they want to tighten lending guidelines? People like Hilary Clinton and the Fed, amongst others, are only hoping to further their own careers in an attempt to 'help' those who are being forced out of their homes. They all pretend like they weren't aware lending practices were questionable. Give me a break!
I knew five years ago that this is where the housing market was headed. I watched every day in my line of work, borrowers being approved for housing loans that were going to be a surefire disaster in a market downturn. Companies like DiTech, Lending Tree, and even big name lenders created this mess we are in today.
Most first time homebuyers trusted their realtor and especially their lender to do right by them. After all, a bank isn't going to approve financing if the borrower doesn't really qualify, will they? You bet they will. And you bet they did!
Adjustable rate mortgages and 80/20 loans gave buyers more buying power, thus, a larger loan. I was told, 'it's creative financing.' It's creative alright. Alot of homebuyers, primarily 1st time buyers do not fully understand what an Adjustable rate mortgage is and they certainly don't understand the ramifications of an 80/20 loan. So, consequently, when the interest rates on those Adj. rate loans went up, and up again, homebuyers were unable to afford their mortgage. And those with 80/20 loans, have two mortgage payments to make, often times with an adj. rate on the 1st one.
Inflated home prices? You betcha! Thank you Mr. Realtor scumbag. The realtors drove the prices up....and the lender made the loan happen. They (realtors and lenders) were pocketing huge profits, smiling all the way to the bank.... but guess who's left holding the bag now that the market has softened? Mr. and Mrs. average, hard working, trying to survive, American.
The Fed has no problem bailing out the failed lending institutions, (creating a bigger deficit) but notice those same lending institutions are not bailing the homebuyers out? Oh, they are offering refinancing options to some qualified borrowers...but now they've made it next to impossible to be a 'qualified borrower.' Despite the fact that they are the one that originally put borrowers in the loan..'sorry, no can help.'
Example: 1st time homebuyer buys a $200,000 home in 2004 with an 80/20 program. They have a $190,000 loan ($1500 1st mortgage payment) and a $10,000 loan ($1,000 2nd mortgage payment). Plus...they put nothing down. Already, they're in too deep, with zero equity, but hey, the lender approved financing, so it must be okay.
Now, it's 2008: The 1st mortgage payment has gone up to $2500 (adj. rate), and the 2nd mortgage payment has gone up to $1500. They now owe $195,000 combined. Unfortunately, their income has only increased 3%....and they have their first child on the way, or maybe their oldest is ready to start college. Oh, yes, and the cost to heat their home has gone up 33% along with gas for their vehicles and rising food costs.
Well, maybe they can refinance and combine both loans into 1 loan? Nope, that won't work because the value of their home has now dropped and is worth only $190,000...so they DON'T qualify for the refinancing option...the rules have changed.
Try again. Maybe they will sell their home and get out from under all of it. No, again. They currently owe MORE on the mortgages, than their house is worth.
Last option: Struggle to make the mortgage payments, cut back on other expenses. But, eventually, they are behind too much, and the bank starts foreclosure proceedings. The Notice gets posted on their house, they've got 90 days or they're out.
And I haven't even touched on Home equity lines of credit! That's a nightmare in itself. Another time. BlackJack wants to go outside and I could use some fresh air.
Let me get my horn! Too little, too late Mr. Chairman!
Where were these people back when unscrupulous lenders were putting people into houses they couldn't afford? Now that foreclosures have reached an alltime high with no end in sight.....they want to tighten lending guidelines? People like Hilary Clinton and the Fed, amongst others, are only hoping to further their own careers in an attempt to 'help' those who are being forced out of their homes. They all pretend like they weren't aware lending practices were questionable. Give me a break!
I knew five years ago that this is where the housing market was headed. I watched every day in my line of work, borrowers being approved for housing loans that were going to be a surefire disaster in a market downturn. Companies like DiTech, Lending Tree, and even big name lenders created this mess we are in today.
Most first time homebuyers trusted their realtor and especially their lender to do right by them. After all, a bank isn't going to approve financing if the borrower doesn't really qualify, will they? You bet they will. And you bet they did!
Adjustable rate mortgages and 80/20 loans gave buyers more buying power, thus, a larger loan. I was told, 'it's creative financing.' It's creative alright. Alot of homebuyers, primarily 1st time buyers do not fully understand what an Adjustable rate mortgage is and they certainly don't understand the ramifications of an 80/20 loan. So, consequently, when the interest rates on those Adj. rate loans went up, and up again, homebuyers were unable to afford their mortgage. And those with 80/20 loans, have two mortgage payments to make, often times with an adj. rate on the 1st one.
Inflated home prices? You betcha! Thank you Mr. Realtor scumbag. The realtors drove the prices up....and the lender made the loan happen. They (realtors and lenders) were pocketing huge profits, smiling all the way to the bank.... but guess who's left holding the bag now that the market has softened? Mr. and Mrs. average, hard working, trying to survive, American.
The Fed has no problem bailing out the failed lending institutions, (creating a bigger deficit) but notice those same lending institutions are not bailing the homebuyers out? Oh, they are offering refinancing options to some qualified borrowers...but now they've made it next to impossible to be a 'qualified borrower.' Despite the fact that they are the one that originally put borrowers in the loan..'sorry, no can help.'
Example: 1st time homebuyer buys a $200,000 home in 2004 with an 80/20 program. They have a $190,000 loan ($1500 1st mortgage payment) and a $10,000 loan ($1,000 2nd mortgage payment). Plus...they put nothing down. Already, they're in too deep, with zero equity, but hey, the lender approved financing, so it must be okay.
Now, it's 2008: The 1st mortgage payment has gone up to $2500 (adj. rate), and the 2nd mortgage payment has gone up to $1500. They now owe $195,000 combined. Unfortunately, their income has only increased 3%....and they have their first child on the way, or maybe their oldest is ready to start college. Oh, yes, and the cost to heat their home has gone up 33% along with gas for their vehicles and rising food costs.
Well, maybe they can refinance and combine both loans into 1 loan? Nope, that won't work because the value of their home has now dropped and is worth only $190,000...so they DON'T qualify for the refinancing option...the rules have changed.
Try again. Maybe they will sell their home and get out from under all of it. No, again. They currently owe MORE on the mortgages, than their house is worth.
Last option: Struggle to make the mortgage payments, cut back on other expenses. But, eventually, they are behind too much, and the bank starts foreclosure proceedings. The Notice gets posted on their house, they've got 90 days or they're out.
And I haven't even touched on Home equity lines of credit! That's a nightmare in itself. Another time. BlackJack wants to go outside and I could use some fresh air.
3/23/2008
Is it Fibular or Tibia..or Both?
I am going on two weeks with this knee injury. Xrays, MRI, CT Scan, and seeing an Orthopedic Surgeon on Wednesday. Maybe then we will know something, anything.
All I know is I cannot walk on it, it hurts, my foot is tingly, and I hate being housebound.
But, the very worst part is being dependent on someone else. Ol' Earl, Jr. has been fantastic...he's been cooking all the meals, doing all the dishes, vacuuming, making the bed, doing the laundry, the shopping, walking the dog....and going to his job all day, every day.
I know he feels the pressure, but he's not complaining. I Love him for it. He even still managed to get the air locker installed in the jeep yesterday!
Keeping my fingers crossed that Wednesday's appointment brings a final diagnosis so we can get on with the treatment and I can get back to my life!
All I know is I cannot walk on it, it hurts, my foot is tingly, and I hate being housebound.
But, the very worst part is being dependent on someone else. Ol' Earl, Jr. has been fantastic...he's been cooking all the meals, doing all the dishes, vacuuming, making the bed, doing the laundry, the shopping, walking the dog....and going to his job all day, every day.
I know he feels the pressure, but he's not complaining. I Love him for it. He even still managed to get the air locker installed in the jeep yesterday!
Keeping my fingers crossed that Wednesday's appointment brings a final diagnosis so we can get on with the treatment and I can get back to my life!
3/20/2008
Americans Cutting Back
CLICK ON TITLE TO SEE ARTICLE
Sure, I would say most Americans are cutting back on things like groceries, dining out, and weekend trips. With the rising cost of fuel and food, we really have no other choice. Of course, the ones being hit the hardest are the low to middle income families.
Big corporations, and even small businesses have raised prices on their products to offset the increases. Unfortunately, the little guy is the one that those increases are being passed onto. I really feel for the young working couples with families. The cost to survive continues to escalate at about 33%, yet their incomes are either not going up at all or minimally at a lousy rate of maybe 3-5%. How are they making it?
Cut out the internet access, cable TV, shop generic brands instead of name brands. Car pool to work, take public transportation. But is it all really enough? And, more importantly, is it right that our Government COULD put a stop to some of this madness, yet they don't?
I am not in favor of big government, and I am almost embarassed at this point to admit I voted for George Bush. But, this insaneness (is that a word?) needs to stop. Meanwhile, the Fed keeps cutting interest rates, our government is bailing out lending institutions and our President is saying "our economy is just going through some adjustments." Adjustments, hell! Our economy has been tanking for years. I'm no brainiac, but I've seen this coming for at least 5 years.
The rich (the oil companies) are getting richer, and the poor (the average American) are getting poorer. And nobody gives a damn.
Obama is focused on talking about his poor, sorry black racist ass....Osama is running free in Pakistan....Bush has created another Vietnam in Iraq....Britney Spears continues to be the role model for our grandchildren by being a trampy, slutty piece of flesh, and her 16 year old pregnant sister became a superstar BECAUSE she got pregnant at 16! Remember when girls would be ashamed if they got pregnant at 16?
Obama: Your 'pastor' made his famous sermon in 2001! Now, in 2008, 7 years later, the whole world knows what he said, that's when YOU decide his comments were uncalled for.
Osama: God will deal with you.
Bush: What a disappointment you are to your country.
Spears: It seems your parents made some grave mistakes in your upbringing. It's a little thing they forgot to instill in you, and its called dignity.
My guess is, it's only a matter of time before China will step right in and take our country. They've been gradually taking it for a number of years. All that's left is the mopping up. Dumb Americans. We've got no one to blame but ourselves.
Sure, I would say most Americans are cutting back on things like groceries, dining out, and weekend trips. With the rising cost of fuel and food, we really have no other choice. Of course, the ones being hit the hardest are the low to middle income families.
Big corporations, and even small businesses have raised prices on their products to offset the increases. Unfortunately, the little guy is the one that those increases are being passed onto. I really feel for the young working couples with families. The cost to survive continues to escalate at about 33%, yet their incomes are either not going up at all or minimally at a lousy rate of maybe 3-5%. How are they making it?
Cut out the internet access, cable TV, shop generic brands instead of name brands. Car pool to work, take public transportation. But is it all really enough? And, more importantly, is it right that our Government COULD put a stop to some of this madness, yet they don't?
I am not in favor of big government, and I am almost embarassed at this point to admit I voted for George Bush. But, this insaneness (is that a word?) needs to stop. Meanwhile, the Fed keeps cutting interest rates, our government is bailing out lending institutions and our President is saying "our economy is just going through some adjustments." Adjustments, hell! Our economy has been tanking for years. I'm no brainiac, but I've seen this coming for at least 5 years.
The rich (the oil companies) are getting richer, and the poor (the average American) are getting poorer. And nobody gives a damn.
Obama is focused on talking about his poor, sorry black racist ass....Osama is running free in Pakistan....Bush has created another Vietnam in Iraq....Britney Spears continues to be the role model for our grandchildren by being a trampy, slutty piece of flesh, and her 16 year old pregnant sister became a superstar BECAUSE she got pregnant at 16! Remember when girls would be ashamed if they got pregnant at 16?
Obama: Your 'pastor' made his famous sermon in 2001! Now, in 2008, 7 years later, the whole world knows what he said, that's when YOU decide his comments were uncalled for.
Osama: God will deal with you.
Bush: What a disappointment you are to your country.
Spears: It seems your parents made some grave mistakes in your upbringing. It's a little thing they forgot to instill in you, and its called dignity.
My guess is, it's only a matter of time before China will step right in and take our country. They've been gradually taking it for a number of years. All that's left is the mopping up. Dumb Americans. We've got no one to blame but ourselves.
3/19/2008
Tibial Plateau Fracture
Yesterday morning I went for an MRI and they called that evening with the results. Now they want to do a CT Scan as the MRI indicates a possible Tibular Plateau Fracture, in layman terms that means a possible fracture of the shin bone. From what I have read on the internet, there are three treatment methods depending on the location of the fracture. A long leg body cast, which could mean four months in a cast (goodbye summer!), putting a rod in the leg, or plates and screws. None of the three sound very pleasant to me. This all truly sucks!
I never even wanted to go to the training thing, why did I? If I had not gone, I would not be layed up, unable to walk, and I would most likely be working at the market down the street, which is what I REALLY wanted anyway! I vow from here on out, to NEVER do anything I don't want to do, no matter what. No more trying to appease someone, no more trying to please someone. If I really really do NOT want to do something it's not going to happen.
Now, I am not bringing in any income, am causing more work for my husband and, it is not fair to BlackJack who would like to go on his long walks and play outside. Instead, we are both cooped up inside for who knows how long. This is not just affecting me, and that is what bothers me the most.
I know, it could be worse. I know that lots of people are far worse off than I am, and I certainly am thankful for the good health I have.
I never even wanted to go to the training thing, why did I? If I had not gone, I would not be layed up, unable to walk, and I would most likely be working at the market down the street, which is what I REALLY wanted anyway! I vow from here on out, to NEVER do anything I don't want to do, no matter what. No more trying to appease someone, no more trying to please someone. If I really really do NOT want to do something it's not going to happen.
Now, I am not bringing in any income, am causing more work for my husband and, it is not fair to BlackJack who would like to go on his long walks and play outside. Instead, we are both cooped up inside for who knows how long. This is not just affecting me, and that is what bothers me the most.
I know, it could be worse. I know that lots of people are far worse off than I am, and I certainly am thankful for the good health I have.
3/16/2008
Torn Ligaments, possibly surgery, eek!
Spent a couple hours at the doctor yesterday with my knee problem. The news was not good. Two torn ligaments, one on the outer side, one on the inner side. The doctor suspects the ligament under the kneecap is torn, but can only determine that by doing an MRI. That will be scheduled next week. If suspicion proves to be accurate, surgery would be recommended. Ugh.
One pair of crutches, one knee sleeve, and 4 weeks to 6 months of hobbling around. Definitely NOT priceless. I am so bummed. I was trying to get a job at the convenience store just down the street.....as ironic as things have been, the guy called me the day AFTER my accident wanting me to walk down and talk to him about a job. I would have LOVED to have been able to walk, period. Shoot. I feel like a completely helpless individual, dependent on someone else for simple tasks.
One pair of crutches, one knee sleeve, and 4 weeks to 6 months of hobbling around. Definitely NOT priceless. I am so bummed. I was trying to get a job at the convenience store just down the street.....as ironic as things have been, the guy called me the day AFTER my accident wanting me to walk down and talk to him about a job. I would have LOVED to have been able to walk, period. Shoot. I feel like a completely helpless individual, dependent on someone else for simple tasks.
3/14/2008
Knee injury
There is an organization here called The Pegasus Project. They make it possible for children with disabilities such as Down Syndrome and Autism to have the opportunity to ride a horse. It is an incredibly successful program providing therapy to the children, building their self esteem and fostering independence. The horses used in the program are mild tempered, older horses that have been trained specifically to aid the children in the therapy.
Pegasus Project is funded on Government grants and relies on volunteers to assist the children while riding and lead the horse. I attended the training program for volunteers yesterday.
All was going well, with a powerpoint presentation, a tour of the facilities and finally a hands on training for emergency dismounts.
When it was my turn, I stood next to the horse with my hands in the proper positions to assist the instructor who was on the horse. My job was to 'cradle' her as she dismounted the horse. As she came off the horse, she slipped a bit, I was unable to catch her completely and we both ended up on the ground with her on top of my left knee. Ouch! To say the least...the pain was excruitiating and I knew I was definitely hurt.
I knew immediately I could not stand right up, as I could feel my knee and below twisted. Within a few minutes, she helped me to my feet. I limped over to the 'block' and sat down while they proceeded to finish the exercise. I was seeing 'stars' and felt lightheaded, so a few minutes of sitting still was definitely a good idea.
So, as my knee began to swell up, and I was unable to put pressure on the leg, some ice and keeping my leg up was in order. This morning, the swelling is still substantial and even limping is difficult, so as much as I hate the thought, looks like I will have to pay a doctor a visit.
What an awful feeling to be dependent on someone else for walking the dog, or making the bed. I am not one to whine about pain, but I have to say this is no fun. Hopefully, the doctor can give me some anti-inflammatory medicine and maybe a pair of crutches, so at a minimum, I will be able to get around on my own.
Pegasus Project is funded on Government grants and relies on volunteers to assist the children while riding and lead the horse. I attended the training program for volunteers yesterday.
All was going well, with a powerpoint presentation, a tour of the facilities and finally a hands on training for emergency dismounts.
When it was my turn, I stood next to the horse with my hands in the proper positions to assist the instructor who was on the horse. My job was to 'cradle' her as she dismounted the horse. As she came off the horse, she slipped a bit, I was unable to catch her completely and we both ended up on the ground with her on top of my left knee. Ouch! To say the least...the pain was excruitiating and I knew I was definitely hurt.
I knew immediately I could not stand right up, as I could feel my knee and below twisted. Within a few minutes, she helped me to my feet. I limped over to the 'block' and sat down while they proceeded to finish the exercise. I was seeing 'stars' and felt lightheaded, so a few minutes of sitting still was definitely a good idea.
So, as my knee began to swell up, and I was unable to put pressure on the leg, some ice and keeping my leg up was in order. This morning, the swelling is still substantial and even limping is difficult, so as much as I hate the thought, looks like I will have to pay a doctor a visit.
What an awful feeling to be dependent on someone else for walking the dog, or making the bed. I am not one to whine about pain, but I have to say this is no fun. Hopefully, the doctor can give me some anti-inflammatory medicine and maybe a pair of crutches, so at a minimum, I will be able to get around on my own.
3/11/2008
Torture In China?
Click on the title to read the article.
I am not the least bit surprised. Call me prejudiced, that is what I am.
I only wish all the chinese, arabs, mexicans, koreans, would just stay out of our country. If their countries are so wonderful, then why are they clamoring to come to ours?
I wish our country had not sold out to China - Thank you Bill Clinton! It is next to impossible to find any product anywhere on the shelves of any store in the U.S. that is NOT 'Made in China'.
I wish the liberals of our country would stop with the 'we need to welcome them with open arms', and 'the United States is the melting pot for all who want to come' rhetoric.
Go to Las Vegas and you will think you stepped in to China.
Visit Miami, and you will believe you are in Cuba.
Take a trip to Detroit, and behold, you will be swimming in a sea of muslims.
Go to Phoenix, Seattle, Dallas, Wichita, Minneapolis, and every small town in between. Did someone say Mexico? They are literally in every crook and cranny of OUR country, speaking THEIR language, not ours. They are living on our social programs while we pay their way and they send money home to their country. They are pushing their agendas in our schools and workplaces while we just sit back and shake our heads.
Wal-Mart in Detroit has just unveiled a new store offering the Arabs every product from consumables to clothing just like they could get in their own country. Oh, the Arabs in that city are thrilled. One lady was quoted as saying, "I just love it, I feel like I'm in my own country." Okay, lady, if it gives you such a warm, fuzzy feeling about home, then please go back to where you came from! I don't want to see Arab food in my Wal-Mart. I want to see corn on the cob, rib eye steak, white bread and Hershey's chocolate bars.
Wal-Mart in dozens of other U.S. cities now have for example an entire aisle of greeting cards in spanish, DVD's in spanish, not to mention the aisles of Latino, Mexican and Asian foods specifically catered to the Latinos, Mexicans and Asisans.
When I needed three ultrasounds and two mammograms, I had to pay for them. When I have surgery, I will need to pay for it. If any of these foreigners who are in our country illegally need any kind of medical treatment, I get to pay for that, too!
This country has been traveling down the wrong road for a long time, and it is only going to get worse.
I am not the least bit surprised. Call me prejudiced, that is what I am.
I only wish all the chinese, arabs, mexicans, koreans, would just stay out of our country. If their countries are so wonderful, then why are they clamoring to come to ours?
I wish our country had not sold out to China - Thank you Bill Clinton! It is next to impossible to find any product anywhere on the shelves of any store in the U.S. that is NOT 'Made in China'.
I wish the liberals of our country would stop with the 'we need to welcome them with open arms', and 'the United States is the melting pot for all who want to come' rhetoric.
Go to Las Vegas and you will think you stepped in to China.
Visit Miami, and you will believe you are in Cuba.
Take a trip to Detroit, and behold, you will be swimming in a sea of muslims.
Go to Phoenix, Seattle, Dallas, Wichita, Minneapolis, and every small town in between. Did someone say Mexico? They are literally in every crook and cranny of OUR country, speaking THEIR language, not ours. They are living on our social programs while we pay their way and they send money home to their country. They are pushing their agendas in our schools and workplaces while we just sit back and shake our heads.
Wal-Mart in Detroit has just unveiled a new store offering the Arabs every product from consumables to clothing just like they could get in their own country. Oh, the Arabs in that city are thrilled. One lady was quoted as saying, "I just love it, I feel like I'm in my own country." Okay, lady, if it gives you such a warm, fuzzy feeling about home, then please go back to where you came from! I don't want to see Arab food in my Wal-Mart. I want to see corn on the cob, rib eye steak, white bread and Hershey's chocolate bars.
Wal-Mart in dozens of other U.S. cities now have for example an entire aisle of greeting cards in spanish, DVD's in spanish, not to mention the aisles of Latino, Mexican and Asian foods specifically catered to the Latinos, Mexicans and Asisans.
When I needed three ultrasounds and two mammograms, I had to pay for them. When I have surgery, I will need to pay for it. If any of these foreigners who are in our country illegally need any kind of medical treatment, I get to pay for that, too!
This country has been traveling down the wrong road for a long time, and it is only going to get worse.
3/10/2008
IRS
How coincidental is it that we electronically file our 2007 return just yesterday and today the IRS has been on our blog???!!!
A little too ironic if you ask me. And where were they on our blog you might ask?
the 2007 posts, of course!
A little too ironic if you ask me. And where were they on our blog you might ask?
the 2007 posts, of course!
3/09/2008
What Our Media Doesn't Want Us To Know
Did you know....? I didn't know !!!
How could we....?
Did you know that 47 countries' have re-established their embassies in Iraq ?
Did you know that the Iraqi government
currently employs 1.2 million Iraqi people?
Did you know
that 3100 schools have been renovated,
364 schools are under rehabilitation,
263 new schools are now under construction;
and 38 new schools have been completed in Iraq ?
Did you know that Iraq 's higher educational structure consists
of 20 Universities, 46 Institutes or colleges and 4 research centers, all currently operating?
Did you know that 25 Iraq students departed for the United States in January 2005 for the re-established Fulbright program?
Did you know that the Iraqi Navy is operational? They have 5 - 100-foot patrol craft, 34 smaller vessels and a naval infantry regiment.
Did you know that Iraq ' s Air Force consists of three operational squadrons,
Which includes 9 reconnaissance and 3 US C-130 transport aircraft
(under Iraqi operational control) which operate day and night,
and will soon add 16 UH-1 helicopters and 4 Bell Jet Rangers?
Did you know that Iraq has a counter-terrorist unit and a Commando Battalion?
Did you know that the Iraqi Police Service has over 55,000 fully trained and equipped police officers?
Did you know that there are 5 Police Academies in Iraq that produce over 3500 new officers every 8 weeks?
Did you know
there are more than 1100 building projects going on in Iraq ? They include 364 schools, 67 public clinics, 15 hospitals, 83 railroad stations, 22 oil facilities, 93 water facilities and 69 electrical facilities.
Did you know that 96% of Iraqi children under the age of 5 have received the first 2 series of polio vaccinations?
Did you know that 4.3 million Iraqi children were enrolled in primary school by mid October?
Did you know that there are 1,192,000 cell phone subscribers in Iraq and phone use has gone up 158%?
Did you know that Iraq has an independent media that consists of 75 radio stations, 180 newspapers and 10 television stations?
Did you know that the Baghdad Stock Exchange opened in June of 2004?
Did you know that 2 candidates in the Iraqi presidential election had a televised debate recently?
OF COURSE WE DIDN'T KNOW!
WHY DIDN'T WE KNOW?
BECAUSE OUR MEDIA WON'T TELL US!
Instead of reflecting our love for our country, we get photos of flag burning incidents at Abu Ghraib and people throwing snowballs at the presidential motorcades.
Tragically, the lack of accentuating the positivein Iraq serves two purposes:
It is intended to undermine the world's perception of the United States thus minimizing consequent support; and it is intended to discourage American citizens.
Above facts are verifiable on the Department of Defense web site.
How could we....?
Did you know that 47 countries' have re-established their embassies in Iraq ?
Did you know that the Iraqi government
currently employs 1.2 million Iraqi people?
Did you know
that 3100 schools have been renovated,
364 schools are under rehabilitation,
263 new schools are now under construction;
and 38 new schools have been completed in Iraq ?
Did you know that Iraq 's higher educational structure consists
of 20 Universities, 46 Institutes or colleges and 4 research centers, all currently operating?
Did you know that 25 Iraq students departed for the United States in January 2005 for the re-established Fulbright program?
Did you know that the Iraqi Navy is operational? They have 5 - 100-foot patrol craft, 34 smaller vessels and a naval infantry regiment.
Did you know that Iraq ' s Air Force consists of three operational squadrons,
Which includes 9 reconnaissance and 3 US C-130 transport aircraft
(under Iraqi operational control) which operate day and night,
and will soon add 16 UH-1 helicopters and 4 Bell Jet Rangers?
Did you know that Iraq has a counter-terrorist unit and a Commando Battalion?
Did you know that the Iraqi Police Service has over 55,000 fully trained and equipped police officers?
Did you know that there are 5 Police Academies in Iraq that produce over 3500 new officers every 8 weeks?
Did you know
there are more than 1100 building projects going on in Iraq ? They include 364 schools, 67 public clinics, 15 hospitals, 83 railroad stations, 22 oil facilities, 93 water facilities and 69 electrical facilities.
Did you know that 96% of Iraqi children under the age of 5 have received the first 2 series of polio vaccinations?
Did you know that 4.3 million Iraqi children were enrolled in primary school by mid October?
Did you know that there are 1,192,000 cell phone subscribers in Iraq and phone use has gone up 158%?
Did you know that Iraq has an independent media that consists of 75 radio stations, 180 newspapers and 10 television stations?
Did you know that the Baghdad Stock Exchange opened in June of 2004?
Did you know that 2 candidates in the Iraqi presidential election had a televised debate recently?
OF COURSE WE DIDN'T KNOW!
WHY DIDN'T WE KNOW?
BECAUSE OUR MEDIA WON'T TELL US!
Instead of reflecting our love for our country, we get photos of flag burning incidents at Abu Ghraib and people throwing snowballs at the presidential motorcades.
Tragically, the lack of accentuating the positivein Iraq serves two purposes:
It is intended to undermine the world's perception of the United States thus minimizing consequent support; and it is intended to discourage American citizens.
Above facts are verifiable on the Department of Defense web site.
3/08/2008
It's Time to do some 4X4 Trails!
I don't have new pictures to post yet, mainly because I've been forgetting to take our camera when we go out, but Butch has been busy with repairs and upgrades to our jeep.
What he's got done so far:
- Repaired exhaust leak
- New muffler
- New to us Seats - He found some skookum seats at a salvage yard that came off a 2004 Chevy Cavalier. They are so much more comfortable and make the Jeep look much better
- New fabric and window for the driver's side
- New mirror for the inside
- Purchased an air deflator - to let some air out of the tires when off road.
What he's planning:
- Roll cage
- Re-install locker
I know he's got much more in mind, because he's been on practically every jeep site and forum. I just am not privvy to all the details. This area is fantastic for Jeep clubs and tons of offroad trails, so I am excited about getting out there. (Hope he's planning to take Jack and I along).
Our little blue jeep has been so much fun since we bought it in Sedona. It has been to Baja, countless jeep trails in Arizona, plus it is our daily mode of transportation. Might even be time for a new engine
3/01/2008
Welfare Poem
This was sent to me by a friend....Ain't it the sad truth!
" I cross ocean, poor and broke, Take bus, see employment folk. Nice man treat me good in there, Say I need to see welfare. Welfare say, 'You come no more, We send cash right to your door.'
Welfare checks, they make you wealthy, Medicaid it keep you healthy! By and by, I got plenty money, Thanks to you, American dummy.
Write to friends in motherland, Tell them 'come fast as you can.' They come in turbans and Ford trucks, I buy big house with welfare bucks They come here, we live together, More welfare checks, it gets better!
Fourteen families, they moving in, But neighbor's patience wearing thin. Finally, white guy moves away, Now I buy his house, and then I say, 'Find more aliens for house to rent.' And in the yard I put a tent.
Send for family they just trash, But they, too, draw the welfare cash! Everything is very good, And soon we own the neighborhood. We have hobby it's called breeding, Welfare pay for baby feeding. Kids need dentist? Wife need pills? We get free! We got no bills! American crazy!
He pay all year, To keep welfare running here. We think America darn good place! Too darn good for the white man race.
If they no like us, they can scram, Got lots of room in Pakistan . "
" I cross ocean, poor and broke, Take bus, see employment folk. Nice man treat me good in there, Say I need to see welfare. Welfare say, 'You come no more, We send cash right to your door.'
Welfare checks, they make you wealthy, Medicaid it keep you healthy! By and by, I got plenty money, Thanks to you, American dummy.
Write to friends in motherland, Tell them 'come fast as you can.' They come in turbans and Ford trucks, I buy big house with welfare bucks They come here, we live together, More welfare checks, it gets better!
Fourteen families, they moving in, But neighbor's patience wearing thin. Finally, white guy moves away, Now I buy his house, and then I say, 'Find more aliens for house to rent.' And in the yard I put a tent.
Send for family they just trash, But they, too, draw the welfare cash! Everything is very good, And soon we own the neighborhood. We have hobby it's called breeding, Welfare pay for baby feeding. Kids need dentist? Wife need pills? We get free! We got no bills! American crazy!
He pay all year, To keep welfare running here. We think America darn good place! Too darn good for the white man race.
If they no like us, they can scram, Got lots of room in Pakistan . "
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