Sounds like a recipe for disaster … that our tax dollars are paying for š¶
apple.news/AU3xOb1AvTFK3_GFMma5G_g
Just something I was thinking about …
Category Archives: America
Extremely Stable Genius
Hey my Blog Buds . . . pretty much done with the house, but have to finish up the garage and the yard, but working it. Hurricane Harvey didn’t keep us down though it’s been a damn long haul back . . . and to say my husband and I are ~t~i~r~e~d~Ā is an understatement! š
I’ve been watching the news and all the shenanigans going on. I could spend all day writing about how bad this all is, but I just don’t have the time or the energy. I’ve been watching a lot of Rachel Maddow lately – I like the way she connects things that seem unconnected.
I’ve started watching CSPAN, too – live and in color! I watched the Brett Kavanaugh hearings — wow, that was a circus & Matt Damon’s SNL’s sketch was damn near spot on LOL š I watched the Barr hearings, too. I’ve got a date with the Mueller Report – though it’s not my job to read it, as I don’t serve the American public. BUT every Congressperson who has not read it is derelict in their duties.
But I had to comment on this . . .
Though I’ve heard him say those three words before, after his little performance making everyone uncomfortable, I couldn’t help but shake my head in utter disdainĀ . . . this man truly needs help. His abandonment and self-esteem issues, are just so sad and disconcerting, besides the impression it makes and the message it sends to the rest of the world . . . but our late night hosts have plenty to work with.
Anyways, just something I was thinking about it . . . (and wanted to let you know Sadie’s still alive and kickin’ š I read a few of your blogs here & there, but it’s been far and few between for now.) Hope this finds you all doing well š
Ā
A little piece of me died today . . .
A little piece of me died today . . .
What more can I say . . . All I can do now is pray . . .
Yes, I watched it (well most of it) – the inauguration . . .
Hard to swallow these feelings of consternation . . .
Just something I was thinking about . . .
Never thought I’d see the day
Wow – I started my day by turning on the TV before I got out of bed, and then I saw it – Trump Is President-elect. I won’t lie to you, tears flowed. I was so depressed, it was hard to get out of my bed and go to work this morning. But, being as it’s a new job, I had to get up and face the day. AND that’s what you do – face adversity square in the face.
The least qualified personĀ to ever run for president has won. What does that say about our country? The world now really seems so different, so upside down, so lost . . .
It was a hard day. Add that to the fact that my best friends’ mom is probably dying, and I was a hot mess, for sure. I had a teary morning at work, luckily by myself, and then I pulled it together.
Now, I just got home from a dinner of Mexican food and margaritas, to celebrate I don’t know what, maybe the beginning of the end, Ā and I hear there are Trump anti-protests in several cities.
I have to admit, I blame the Democratic National Convention (DNC) for their misstep. Truth is, they cheated Bernie Sanders out of the nomination. They did everything they could to ensure he was not their nominee, even though Bernie WAS the predicted winner some time ago.
It was so bad, even I , who always thought I would relish a woman candidate for president in my lifetime, was stymied. It’s definitely been a tough bittersweet election cycle. Knowing Bernie got screwed made it hard to be loud and proud about our first modern femaleĀ presidential candidate.
I hate to sayĀ it, but you get what you get. America wanted something new and different, and that’s what they got. The Democrats didn’t give them that option, but somehow the Republicans did. Being a praying person, all I can do is pray that God guides Trump to be the Ā positive change America believes he is. That and wring my hands, just a little.
Oh and as an aside – I can’t wait to win so much that I get sick of winning and to become rich beyond my belief – we shall see (after the three and a half years I’ve been through) . . . but not holding my breath. (That was Trump’s promise!)
How are you feeling today? Sad, scared, hopeful?
Just something I was thinking about . . .
SMH – Election 2016 – Debate #1
WOW – as expected, that was entertaining and frightening all at the same time! Just finished watching the first U.S. Presidential Debate between Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. I wasn’t surprised when Trump began to unspool pretty quickly in. Clinton was able to bring out his “best side” with little provocation. He was rude, childish, vague, defensive, argumentative, and came off about as genuineĀ as a slimy used car salesman. I don’t think he answered one question with a clear thoughtful response, instead meandering in various other directions. Presumptive expectations were met.
I followed Twitter during the debate this time – it fascinates me thatĀ so many people see and hear the same things, but interpret them so differently . . .
Personally I thought Hillary kicked the “Don’s” ass, for the most part.
For all the people that think TrumpĀ would be a great president because he is a great businessman, consider this:
- He stated during tonight’s debate that paying little or no taxes (when asked about the past) shows he’s smart – yes and he’s a cheat and doesn’t believe he should pay his fair share. I paid 33.4% in taxes last year for the small amount of 401K money we withdrew to keep our bills paid. [This did include a penalty for early withdrawal.] What percentage of your income did you pay?
- Trump has filed bankruptcy six times, yet always walked away personally financially sound, never changing his lifestyle. These bankruptcies, however, destroyed many small businesses that worked for him in good faith. Just because you can do something, doesn’t mean you should. YES, I could file bankruptcy, and probably should have over two years ago, but these are my bills and I will pay them as long as I have funds to do so, regardless if it’s allowedĀ or not. That’s how I was raised!
- He doesn’t own the majority of the buildings that his name is on – he is paid for the use of his name. (Okay, I have to admit, that is great branding on his part.)
- He has used money from his Trump Foundation (mostly funded by donors) to pay personal and business debts.
- When asked tonight about being investigated for hisĀ alleged racial violations of the FairĀ Housing Act, he stated he settled those lawsuits admittingĀ no guilt or fault – typically when lawsuits are settled out of court, no one admits guilt or fault, though often the payee was guilty or at fault, which is why they are paying out, often to hush people up.
- His current global business dealings would be a definite conflict of interest, regardless of who he says is running HIS companies.
He’s definitely good at keeping his head above water – but a smart and trusted business man – I don’t think so. Conniving and slick, I have no doubt, as he’s admitted to having conductedĀ business this way. And he may not be a politician, but he’s probably the richest candidateĀ (if you go by appearances) that’s ever run for president. Why don’t people see that he’s one of the worst of the 1%ers?
I will say that even if I liked him, and I don’t, I would never vote for someone who refuses to release their tax returns . . . that one action tells me he has much to hide, and/or that many of his lies will be revealed.
Looking forward to the next debate – I just hope those that need to be watching are.
Were you watching tonight? What did you think?
Just something I was thinking about . . .
Yeah, I know, it’s been a while since I have blogged in any way, shape or form – hope you all have been doing well & I plan to catch up with you soon ā¤
Sadie’s world these days
Hello my Blog Buds! I hope you have all been doing well, here so close to the end of May. The end of May already – I am amazed how quickly this year has flown by. I had so many goals for this year, and so far, I am no where near meeting any of them! I’m working on that, though some days are better than others.
I have been busy, back hot and heavy on the job hunt. I am always looking, but sometimes take a break from the all out full-time job of searching. I have a couple of really good leads, with people who know me well pulling for me – so I am quite hopeful. But, I was in this position in March, and nothing came of it, as another friend who is 10 years younger received the offer. (The interview had gone well,Ā I had much more experience in the role than she did, and agreed to the lower salary they mentioned right up front. The person leaving that position, due to a promotion, even recommended me for the job.) I AM NOT GIVING UP, even if I’m not counted!!!
Today I made pineapple marmalade for the first time. It tastes great, but hope it gels properly, as marmalade usually takes a little time to set up. Fixing to make some more apple butter, and some blueberry jam, in the next week or so. Then I will have enough to rent a space again – this time at one of the farmers markets, as we have many around my area. [YEAH, I know . . . Fixing to, you know I’m from the south, though I smiled at how incorrect it was when I typed it. š ]
Oh Lordy, the upcoming election . . . I am truly absolutely shocked and amazed and confused and frightened and apprehensive, and I could go on and on and on. Let’s be honest, NONE of the candidates from the beginning were the best choices – BUT no one else stepped up. And the issues and possible solutions are endless. Also, I can genuinely understand where some of these people are coming from, the depth of their discontent and disparity. I even get their differences of opinion. I also realizeĀ the sense of greed and lust and power and control others approach these matters with. What a dichotomy . . .
The government and others in power and control of our lives have let us down often. It seems much of their time and effort is spent furthering their own agendas, not the American peoples’. In doing so, “the powers that be” have eroded this country’s greatness and ability to be the best by eroding the basic security and self-esteem of so many that have worked so hard for it. We don’t all want to be rich, but we would like to make enough to survive and have a little extra, and to know that in our elderly years we won’t be homeless, or dependent on others. You know be reasonably comfortable.
I do know the world is different than it was when I was growing upĀ – oftenĀ to survive or succeed you talked tough and made few compromises. Once you kicked ass a few times and proved you could hold your own, you had it made and no one messed with you anymore. BUT, the world is smallerĀ now, and larger all at the same time. Mindsets and tactics have changed, and everything is faster. Information about almost anything you want to know is available and on overload. Balances are delicate – you can’t bulldog your way through the china shop. We have to change the way we approachĀ some things for this country toĀ prosper and out-maneuver, or we’ll die – our democracy as we know it.
At this point, I’m just waiting to see what happens when the game of “52 Pick-Up” is over, and the last card falls to the floor. I will vote, and we’ll see what shakes out . . .
[That’s not to say I won’t write any other political thoughts, because I might!]
I doubt my backyard owls will return this year. The city has been doing sewage upgrades in my neighborhood, and they have been quite busy back in my little alcove, where one of the mains is located, even storing one of their small bobcat diggers back there for the last several weeks. All that noise and activity I’m sure will eliminate my little area as a suitable home. I’m pretty sad about that, as I enjoyed the little glimpses of them I was blessed to have.
After spending most of the day online looking for jobs, I have to take a break from the computer screen, so I have not been able to keep up with all of you lately; I am slowly, but surely, trying to visit you all! I miss you and what you share ā¤ Ā I’ll be coming around to visit soon. š
Just some things I’ve been thinking about . . .
The Dems Debate and the Tax Man ComethĀ
The Democratic Debate was lively tonight. I think Bernie did a good job overall.Ā I think Hillary is getting a bit nervous, with Bernie snapping at her heals.
The commentators stated after the debate that “Hillary cleaned Bernie’s clock,” on the gun control question. I mentioned to my husband that I agree with Bernie’s decision to vote against holding gun makers and dealers responsible, as long as they did the appropriate background checks. What no one has mentioned is WHO does these background checks? Using that thought process, shouldn’t they be held liable as well, if a background check came back approved on someone who later committed a crime?
I believe in Texas background checks are performed by the Texas Department of Public Safety, though I am not sure on that. For all I know, that work is contracted out to some third party, in my state, as well as others. The point is, it’s really no different than if a drunk driver kills someone and has a floorboard full of empty Budweiser bottles – it’s doubtful that Budweiser would be sued, or be held responsible. If someone stabs someone with a Buck knife, no one would try to sue the knife company.
You can still walk into any gun show in Texas and sell your weapons with no background check, or exchange of any paperwork, with anyone who is willing to pay the price you are asking. Anyone who happens to have paid the ticket price to get into the gun show and has cash in their pocket. And how many crimes are committed with stolen guns? (No, I have not had a chance to actually research the numbers on this.)
Anyway – it seems like the audience was giving Bernie some good feedback, from what I could tell.
Changing topics, about a month ago I had a job interview, in my industry, for a job I have a great reputation for doing sucessfully. The position was being vacated by an old friend and colleague, who gave me an excellent recommendation. The interview went really well. I found out, via FaceBook, that I did not get the position, but another friend and colleague was offered the job instead. She is about ten years my junior. Though I wasn’t super jazzed about going back to a place I feel sucked my soul out, and it was also for over a third less than I what I used to make doing the same job – I won’t lie, the snub hurt. I need the money, I need the benefits, I need something to do with my time – I am getting so unfocused, and feel that I am adrift. BUT, I will keep looking!
Last, but certainly not least, it’s tax time in the U.S. It’s no secret that my husband and I have been surviving on our 401K money for over the last two years. So, let me be a little more frank – after our standard deductions, our taxable income this year was $29, 252. My taxes, and penalties for keeping my bills paid – surviving on about a third of what we are used to making – was close to $10,000. Oh yes, I did the math, our tax rate was 32.8%.
I could be wrong, but I doubt any millionaire, or billionaire, paid 32.8% of their income in taxes – but I bet a shit ton of them paid as much as, or more than, I paid to their accountants to ensure they did not pay that high of a percentage in taxes due to all the loopholes the rich have at their disposal. To me, that is a crime . . .
On a side note – my dad’s 76th birthday is coming up, and he is a staunch Republican. I bought him a Feel the Bern coffee mug, so he could start his days thinking about his “bleeding heart Liberal” (in his opinion) daughter. And I can’t wait to wear my Bernie Sanders T-shirt š
Just some things I’ve been thinking about . . .
Everything is Broken – One-Liner Wednesday
Everything seems broken . . .
In honor of Linda Hill’s One Liner Wednesday . . . no it’s not funny or inspirational – but it’s factual.
#1linerWeds badge by nearlywes.com
[NOTE: I really like Bob Dylan’s and especially Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s versions of these songs, but this version by ImmaterialĀ had that right touch of melancholy it seemed to deserve today.]
Just something I was thinking about . . .
Feeling the Bern in the New Year (JJIJ)
Happy New Year!
Itās been awhile . . .
Iāve been paying little attention to the news in the last few months, but you just canāt escape the shit.
I missed half of the second Democratic Debate, since I had no idea it was on, a major network station at that. Not sure how that happened other than maybe they did a poor job of promoting it, especially on a Saturday night right before Christmas.
I recorded the thirdĀ Republican Debate, but just deleted it without watching it. Wasn’t up for being entertained. Seems like I heard a few governments have said they will ban Trump from coming to their countries, and that Cruz may have been born in Canada. But, I have done no real research on those tidbits.
Western Illinois University has a history of predicting the winner of the presidential elections. Guess who they predicted the winner will be ā Bernie Sanders . . .
Yep ā feeling the Bern!! Time will tell . . .
Heard about the Syrian refuges they arrested in Texas and California for being terrorists. Pretty much exactly what so many feared.
I read in our local paper that gas prices are causing many layoffs in the oil and gas industry, but they followed that statement saying that with raw materials so cheap, the refineries are doing well, by buying in bulk now while prices are low, making their profit margins larger. So in the end, the oil andĀ gas (refineries) company stock holders andĀ CEOs probably arenāt taking that big of a hit. Just the middle class who lost their jobs ā most likely a bunch of people in my age group.
Had a lot of company in December, at different times all spread out. It was good to see family we haven’t seen in some time.
Caught up with a few of my blog buds today. Enjoyed that immensely!
Anyway, thought it would be nice to contribute to Just Jot it January, over at Linda G. Hill’s blog. Hope it isnāt my only contribution š
Just some things Iāve been thinking about it . . .
Scenery . . .
I am so tired of being “job free” – it sucks, is soul sucking, confidence stealing, and it’s got my head all screwed up. It seems as though life is kind of at a standstill for us, though we are fully aware of all the interconnected things going on around us that can (or do) affect us positively and negatively, and we can’t seem to escape this surreal nightmare.
My husband feels the same way, though he has been able to help one of our friends, who is a framer and builds houses, occasionally. But overall, lately we are about as motivated as sloths! We’ve been talking about it, and are consciously going to start working on it right away.
BUT what I really need, besides a job for me and my husband, is to take a road trip and get the hell out of dodge. I am sick of this place, these four walls, and this whole depressing unexpected time frame in my life and I am ready for a change and especially a change of scenery.
SO, this is what I need to see, and soon!!!! What about you – how you feeling??
I have been watching much of the political news and saw the last Republican debate. Now that was entertaining at various times throughout, as well as educational, enlightening, depressing and rife with platitudes. I heard Rick Perry, who I lovingly refer to as “Govna’ Goodhair” and that Wisconsin guy dropped out. (Okay, yes tonight I am too damn lazy to go look up his name and I can’t remember it off the top of my head š ) That made me smile and I wasn’t surprised – both them dropping out and my indifference to looking up that guy’s name. Carly Fiorina is coming across as a real “Iron Lady,” but I think her business record will hurt her.
And The Donald, well, all I can say is this –
But, I think the further we go, it’ll be realized that he has no “real strategy” for anything, knows nothing about foreign policy and is full of insults, hot air, and himself. Great traits in a boxing or wrestling ring, but disastrous in a president.
Now Lindsey Graham just scares the crap out of me . . . I think he studies Revelations on a regular basis . . . and is living it out daily. And Ted Cruz, well he gives me the heebs every time he opens his mouth – he is a true hypocrite, among other things, in my book.
Looking forward to the next two debates, especially the first Democratic debate. I’m watching Bernie, and I like Elizabeth Warren, too, though I know she isn’t in the race. I had to go look up who else was running besides Hillary. The rest of them don’t seem to be viable, and I don’t like anyone who wants to loosen up copyright restrictions, so Lawrence Lessig is definitely out for me.
So many other things going on in the world as well, but it’s late. We can talk about them soon, as I am determined to write on a regular basis! I’ll be catching up with you all, as well! š
(YEAH you know I had to go look it up, damn it š – that guy I referred to earlier that dropped out was Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker.)
Anyway, just some things I have been thinking about . . .
Just something I was thinking about . . . 