The rest of the country seems to catching up with those of us who knew from the beginning that the administration fabricated intelligence in order to invade Iraq. The rest of the country also seems to be catching onto the notion that perhaps this move wasn't such a great idea. The rhetoric (from both sides actually) is spinning out of control. From G.W.B. we get: "The party of FDR and the party of Harry Truman has become the party of cut-and-run." It's almost as if he's claiming to once have respected the Democrats (HA!) but now they're just a bunch of pussies that even FDR and Truman would be ashamed of. My other favorite theme is the same old if-you-aren't-with-us-you're-with-the-terrorists:
"Some have selectively quoted from this document to make the case that by fighting the terrorists -- by fighting them in Iraq -- we are making our people less secure here at home. This argument buys into the enemy's propaganda that the terrorists attack us because we're provoking them."
We don't belong in Iraq. We never did. And our presence there has made the already unstable region that much more so. This isn't partisan. It's common sense. G.W.B. created this situation and now he has the balls to point fingers at me?! It's desperate and pathetic. You know who I respect less than those who "cut-and-run?" Those who knowingly lie to the American people in order to invade a country and then when they realize they can't win turn around and blame everyone else for their failures.
I know I sound like a broken record. I know I can go back in the archives and find a post very similar to this one. And if anything I should be feeling optimistic that the rest of the country seems to finally be getting it. But instead I'm more frustrated and disgusted and sickened by all of it. What he has done and continues to do is criminal. And I know he's going to get away with all of it. I just know it.
SO
I finished the Big Red Scarf yesterday and am working on the lacy fancy one that I've ripped out about a gazillion times. I'm contemplating ripping it out AGAIN because it's missing...je ne sais quois...it'll be right when it's right and I'll know it. Next up is the sweater and then finally I get to start on my leg warmers. I've been eyeing some skirt patterns that look really fun. I used to be intimidated by more complicated patterns. I finally realized that I'm good at reading and following directions so clearly I'm capable of more challenging projects. Tonight I'm very torn between cooking up some good food and hanging out with some peeps or going into complete seclusion and knitting like a lunatic whilst watching something fantastically bad. Regardless I know I have to take off my nail polish and start anew.
My hands appear to be those of a baby prostitute from Thailand.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
2 posts in 2 days...it's madness i tell you!
I am the proud owner of 12 new glasses.
I can now have 12 people over.
Six can drink scotch or whiskey in rocks glasses.
Six can drink mixed drinks in pint glasses.
Of course only 6 people can sit down, but who cares about that when you have a glass of delciousness in your hand.
The glasses are compliments of my companion who picked them out himself. They're a darn near perfect match to my previous 2 (It used to be a set of four, but 1 is being held hostage upstairs and 1 broke) and it was a complete surprise. He can be pretty swell. And thoughtful.
I'm back to being addicted to knitting. It's all I think about. It's all I want to do. I'm completely committed to finishing up my UFO's, but I couldn't help myself. Yesterday I bought some fuschia worsted and today I went back and bought blue raspberry wool. I'm soooo close to being finished with my long red scarf, I have another dressy kind of scarf to finish, and the sweater that won't go away, but after that:
leg warmers.
Before all ye judge, let me state my case:
I walk to work almost every day. I live in Western Michigan. I am a fan of skirts and dresses. Though I always swaddle my legs in wool tights during these cold winter months, I can always use extra warmth being that I am a Davison girl and us sisters tend to be cold. All the time (Traci, you totally know what I'm talking about!). This is not about fashion. They will not be incorporated into an outfit (though I'm already thinking about how fabulous the blue raspberry will look against some brown tights!). They are practical. They are comfortable. They are warm.
I'm going to combine these 2 patterns.
Tonight it looks like it's another Thursday night heading to the Grandest of Rapids this time for supper at the Cambridge House. Or someplace else. We're living on the edge. Seeing what strikes our fancy. Tomorrow I need to make a very important phone call to a very old friend who is getting married Saturday leaving me abandoned as the last proud to not be married hold out. It's supposed to rain so I'm certain there will be lots of tea and knitting.
Knnnnniiiiiiiitttttttttiiiiiiiinnnnnnggggggg.
I swear to god it's like crack cocaine.
I cannot get enough.
I can now have 12 people over.
Six can drink scotch or whiskey in rocks glasses.
Six can drink mixed drinks in pint glasses.
Of course only 6 people can sit down, but who cares about that when you have a glass of delciousness in your hand.
The glasses are compliments of my companion who picked them out himself. They're a darn near perfect match to my previous 2 (It used to be a set of four, but 1 is being held hostage upstairs and 1 broke) and it was a complete surprise. He can be pretty swell. And thoughtful.
I'm back to being addicted to knitting. It's all I think about. It's all I want to do. I'm completely committed to finishing up my UFO's, but I couldn't help myself. Yesterday I bought some fuschia worsted and today I went back and bought blue raspberry wool. I'm soooo close to being finished with my long red scarf, I have another dressy kind of scarf to finish, and the sweater that won't go away, but after that:
leg warmers.
Before all ye judge, let me state my case:
I walk to work almost every day. I live in Western Michigan. I am a fan of skirts and dresses. Though I always swaddle my legs in wool tights during these cold winter months, I can always use extra warmth being that I am a Davison girl and us sisters tend to be cold. All the time (Traci, you totally know what I'm talking about!). This is not about fashion. They will not be incorporated into an outfit (though I'm already thinking about how fabulous the blue raspberry will look against some brown tights!). They are practical. They are comfortable. They are warm.
I'm going to combine these 2 patterns.
Tonight it looks like it's another Thursday night heading to the Grandest of Rapids this time for supper at the Cambridge House. Or someplace else. We're living on the edge. Seeing what strikes our fancy. Tomorrow I need to make a very important phone call to a very old friend who is getting married Saturday leaving me abandoned as the last proud to not be married hold out. It's supposed to rain so I'm certain there will be lots of tea and knitting.
Knnnnniiiiiiiitttttttttiiiiiiiinnnnnnggggggg.
I swear to god it's like crack cocaine.
I cannot get enough.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
i was a biiiiig winner last night
The weather is in the process of turning. We've been spoiled here in Western Michigan the past 2 days with glorious sunshine and perfect temperatures. Not no more. Rain and cold are in my future. It's okay. I'm ready for it. Curling up whilst adorned in fleece with a fat cat, some tea, Season 2 of Arrested Development, and knitting sounds dreamy. Especially if I can make it though but one more day of work--it's a double whammy work weekend for me which means no work on Friday. I'm currently engaged in finishing up some knitting projects from last year but I'm already poring over sock patterns. Honey crisp apples and knitting are 2 of my most favorite things about fall.
Six weeks to midterms and things are just going to keep getting uglier. I'm already sick to death of DeVos vs Granholm ads. Especially given that Granholm has yet to bring on the goods. If I see one more horribly produced and underwhelming ad from the Dems I'm going to scream. Monday the 2nd of October is the first debate which I will, of course, be watching. Jenny should blow Dick outta the water. Not that it will matter. He gets to play the low expectation game-a tactic that worked marvelously for G.W.B. As long as he's capable of stringing 2 sentences together he'll come out the big winner.
I can't believe that anyone needed to hear from 16 intelligence agencies that the war in Iraq has made the world a more dangerous place. I also can't believe that both parties are trying to control the story with the Republicans saying that this proves Iraq is central to the war on terror (completely ignoring the fact that it wouldn't be if we'd never invaded in the first place) and the Democrats saying this proves the war in Iraq was a mistake (completely ignoring the fact that accusations aren't really helpful now. Ideas are.). One of my favorite moments from the press conference was when G.W.B. got all snippy about the timing of the leak implying that it was politically motivated due to the upcoming elections. You think? Kinda like the rapidly dropping gas prices?
I've refrained from saying to much about the new Aaron Sorkin show "Studio 60" because I don't really have anything nice to say. I may have been persuaded to give it another go as it looks like he's attempting an arch storyline as opposed to his typical character-driven shows. Right now I'm less than impressed. It feels like he's trying to combine Sports Night with West Wing. It's self-indulgent, the acting is lackluster, the writing flat, and the subject matter dull. And that's me being nice.
Six weeks to midterms and things are just going to keep getting uglier. I'm already sick to death of DeVos vs Granholm ads. Especially given that Granholm has yet to bring on the goods. If I see one more horribly produced and underwhelming ad from the Dems I'm going to scream. Monday the 2nd of October is the first debate which I will, of course, be watching. Jenny should blow Dick outta the water. Not that it will matter. He gets to play the low expectation game-a tactic that worked marvelously for G.W.B. As long as he's capable of stringing 2 sentences together he'll come out the big winner.
I can't believe that anyone needed to hear from 16 intelligence agencies that the war in Iraq has made the world a more dangerous place. I also can't believe that both parties are trying to control the story with the Republicans saying that this proves Iraq is central to the war on terror (completely ignoring the fact that it wouldn't be if we'd never invaded in the first place) and the Democrats saying this proves the war in Iraq was a mistake (completely ignoring the fact that accusations aren't really helpful now. Ideas are.). One of my favorite moments from the press conference was when G.W.B. got all snippy about the timing of the leak implying that it was politically motivated due to the upcoming elections. You think? Kinda like the rapidly dropping gas prices?
I've refrained from saying to much about the new Aaron Sorkin show "Studio 60" because I don't really have anything nice to say. I may have been persuaded to give it another go as it looks like he's attempting an arch storyline as opposed to his typical character-driven shows. Right now I'm less than impressed. It feels like he's trying to combine Sports Night with West Wing. It's self-indulgent, the acting is lackluster, the writing flat, and the subject matter dull. And that's me being nice.
Friday, September 22, 2006
i'm glad the boomers haven't figured out how to leave comments
It's been a bizarre week. And I can't exactly grasp why. It could be that I've been going to bed a little earlier. It could be that I'm happily back to walking to work instead of biking. Maybe it's the Warhol documentary I watched the last 2 nights. Or the unexpected news that 3 poems are going to be published at unlikely stories. I'm also grappling with what I believe to be apathy regarding midterms and politics in general.
Last night was quite a change of pace. Instead of the usual Thursday night Burger Nite we traveled to the big city. Dinner at the Pita House (heeeaaaaveeennlllllyyyyy) and then a beer at Mulligans where we were joined by Nick and Brooke. Nice to see them, but difficult to truly chill out and relax as the realization that it was a school night was in the forefront of everyone's minds. A fall weekend bonfire evening (not to be started later than, say, 8 or 9pm) is in the works.
The Warhol documentary was frustrating. I've never been a fan of Pop Art (leaving one asking what I was doing watching it in the first place!) but I'm starting to realize that it's not necessarily the art that's the problem. It's the post modern theorists that make me want to claw my own eyes out. Or rather cut my ears from my head with a rusty spoon. It was interesting to learn about his early obsession with Capote. I'm fascinated with Edie Sedgwick.
I enjoyed watching the progression of his work--from commercial artist to the soup cans to the silk screening to the films--and his interest in celebrity and fame which eventually brought him back to the beginning. But sitting there listening to someone else talk about his work was unbelievably frustrating and obnoxious. I came to the realization that the 60's were a sham. I don't care about the drugs or the sex or the culture. I get angry when people claim that it changed the world. Because from here? From 2006? All the protesting and the dropping out and music festivals and the peace signs and pop art and the weed did nothing. That wasn't what J.F.K. had in mind when he talked about what you could do for your country. I can't imagine how it must have felt the day he was shot. How hope and optimism was ripped out of the psyche of the youth culture. It's too bad instead of channeling that rage and really making a difference you all went to Woodstock. Or wish you'd been to Woodstock. Because all that left us with was 2 really shitty Woodstock Anniversary concerts and Lollapalooza. I don't mean to be glib. And I certainly understand the importance of the Civil Rights Movement (though one could say that was just barely a success given the racial discrepancies that still exist let alone gender and sexuality issues). I'm just sick and tired of being told how seminal that decade was. I'll give you music, for what would the world be without the Beatles or Bob Dylan. I'm not giving you much else. Because I'm left standing here in 2006 with a burgeoning deficit, the occupation of 2 countries, a War on A Concept, a health care system that gets fixed by Walmart, a culture of business that believes pretexting is moral, a president who has taken the constitution of this country and perverted it for his own political benefit who happens to be of the very generation I'm talking about, 2 political parties that are essentially identically corrupt, and the most media savvy yet most easily manipulated electorate in the history of the U.S.A.
We've come a long way, baby.
Last night was quite a change of pace. Instead of the usual Thursday night Burger Nite we traveled to the big city. Dinner at the Pita House (heeeaaaaveeennlllllyyyyy) and then a beer at Mulligans where we were joined by Nick and Brooke. Nice to see them, but difficult to truly chill out and relax as the realization that it was a school night was in the forefront of everyone's minds. A fall weekend bonfire evening (not to be started later than, say, 8 or 9pm) is in the works.
The Warhol documentary was frustrating. I've never been a fan of Pop Art (leaving one asking what I was doing watching it in the first place!) but I'm starting to realize that it's not necessarily the art that's the problem. It's the post modern theorists that make me want to claw my own eyes out. Or rather cut my ears from my head with a rusty spoon. It was interesting to learn about his early obsession with Capote. I'm fascinated with Edie Sedgwick.
I enjoyed watching the progression of his work--from commercial artist to the soup cans to the silk screening to the films--and his interest in celebrity and fame which eventually brought him back to the beginning. But sitting there listening to someone else talk about his work was unbelievably frustrating and obnoxious. I came to the realization that the 60's were a sham. I don't care about the drugs or the sex or the culture. I get angry when people claim that it changed the world. Because from here? From 2006? All the protesting and the dropping out and music festivals and the peace signs and pop art and the weed did nothing. That wasn't what J.F.K. had in mind when he talked about what you could do for your country. I can't imagine how it must have felt the day he was shot. How hope and optimism was ripped out of the psyche of the youth culture. It's too bad instead of channeling that rage and really making a difference you all went to Woodstock. Or wish you'd been to Woodstock. Because all that left us with was 2 really shitty Woodstock Anniversary concerts and Lollapalooza. I don't mean to be glib. And I certainly understand the importance of the Civil Rights Movement (though one could say that was just barely a success given the racial discrepancies that still exist let alone gender and sexuality issues). I'm just sick and tired of being told how seminal that decade was. I'll give you music, for what would the world be without the Beatles or Bob Dylan. I'm not giving you much else. Because I'm left standing here in 2006 with a burgeoning deficit, the occupation of 2 countries, a War on A Concept, a health care system that gets fixed by Walmart, a culture of business that believes pretexting is moral, a president who has taken the constitution of this country and perverted it for his own political benefit who happens to be of the very generation I'm talking about, 2 political parties that are essentially identically corrupt, and the most media savvy yet most easily manipulated electorate in the history of the U.S.A.
We've come a long way, baby.
Monday, September 18, 2006
bill clinton is on the daily show tonight
Operation Fall Purse was successful. Unfortunately, I was talked out of picking up these little darlings (in brown) by the lesbian. I'm going back asap. They're going to look darn near perfect with one of my cute new skirts.
ENOUGH OF THE FASHION BLOGGING!
The outreach program at the movie theater was wildly successful. We didn't register a ton of kids for cards--alot of people were already cardholders--but we did enthusiastically promote the library. From a 15 minute conversation with a man about the Mac vs the PC ("You have computer classes?! I had no idea you had computer classes!") to the dad who couldn't believe we hosted free dvd release parties ("Free? You mean, the movie's free, but you have to pay for the popcorn? The popcorn's free TOO?!? So you pay for the water bottles! You mean you're giving those away?!?!?!") my co-worker and I left feeling great about our jobs despite the realization that once again we were doing someone else's work. My other library-related adventure of the day was out-Referencing a librarian and an MLS student. Finding answers quickly and accurately for people is like doing crack--once you get a taste of the rush of success, you crave more.
I'm not exactly sure who to blame for the latest Muslim debacle. On the one hand, the Muslim community has a tendency to blow things a little out of proportion. Cartoons--this community got upset about some cartoons. And yet when you've been labeled the key target in the War on Terror, it's a little hard not to be sensitive especially when the head of a Christian denomination sites words from an emperor characterizing some of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as "evil and inhuman." Way to anger and alienate a religious community that already feels a little bit marginalized.
It was a tough week for the White House in regards to the controversy surrounding his assertion that the CIA can just keep on keeping on with their interrogation methods. According to some, a compromise is in the works. How they can compromise with a man who thinks that withholding evidence from a defendant if it's considered classified is aok or who believes that coerced information is just fine as long as it's reliable is beyond me. Did no one within the administration actually read the SCOTUS decision? Does no one within the administration see what a dangerous precedent this would set internationally? Does anyone else in the country notice that those who vocally support the president never actually served in the armed services whilst those who are against it did?
And my favorite news story that I'm so pleased has yet to go away is the Deadly Spinach Story. The local news did a greeeeaaat story on how this vegetable used to be considered a superfood and is now a killer. Ooookay. First of all, only 1 person has been confirmed killed by the bacteria. In almost a week. Secondly, only 109 people have been reported sickened by the bacteria. This is one of those typically American scare stories that the country gets riveted by: shark attacks, bird flu, anthrax...you name it: if it affects only a teeny tiny part of the population, but is remotely threatening, Americans will eat it up. Or not. In this case.
ENOUGH OF THE FASHION BLOGGING!
The outreach program at the movie theater was wildly successful. We didn't register a ton of kids for cards--alot of people were already cardholders--but we did enthusiastically promote the library. From a 15 minute conversation with a man about the Mac vs the PC ("You have computer classes?! I had no idea you had computer classes!") to the dad who couldn't believe we hosted free dvd release parties ("Free? You mean, the movie's free, but you have to pay for the popcorn? The popcorn's free TOO?!? So you pay for the water bottles! You mean you're giving those away?!?!?!") my co-worker and I left feeling great about our jobs despite the realization that once again we were doing someone else's work. My other library-related adventure of the day was out-Referencing a librarian and an MLS student. Finding answers quickly and accurately for people is like doing crack--once you get a taste of the rush of success, you crave more.
I'm not exactly sure who to blame for the latest Muslim debacle. On the one hand, the Muslim community has a tendency to blow things a little out of proportion. Cartoons--this community got upset about some cartoons. And yet when you've been labeled the key target in the War on Terror, it's a little hard not to be sensitive especially when the head of a Christian denomination sites words from an emperor characterizing some of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as "evil and inhuman." Way to anger and alienate a religious community that already feels a little bit marginalized.
It was a tough week for the White House in regards to the controversy surrounding his assertion that the CIA can just keep on keeping on with their interrogation methods. According to some, a compromise is in the works. How they can compromise with a man who thinks that withholding evidence from a defendant if it's considered classified is aok or who believes that coerced information is just fine as long as it's reliable is beyond me. Did no one within the administration actually read the SCOTUS decision? Does no one within the administration see what a dangerous precedent this would set internationally? Does anyone else in the country notice that those who vocally support the president never actually served in the armed services whilst those who are against it did?
And my favorite news story that I'm so pleased has yet to go away is the Deadly Spinach Story. The local news did a greeeeaaat story on how this vegetable used to be considered a superfood and is now a killer. Ooookay. First of all, only 1 person has been confirmed killed by the bacteria. In almost a week. Secondly, only 109 people have been reported sickened by the bacteria. This is one of those typically American scare stories that the country gets riveted by: shark attacks, bird flu, anthrax...you name it: if it affects only a teeny tiny part of the population, but is remotely threatening, Americans will eat it up. Or not. In this case.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
using my dark side feels good
How should one go about convincing a tired, anti-shopping, anti-fashion lesbian to drive to the north side of town so as to make one's fall dreams of the perfect purse a reality?
As said accessory is currently prominently displayed at the TJ Maxx, waiting until tomorrow is not an option. This beauty could be snatched up by some rich unappreciative Waukazoo Woods resident at any moment leaving me in the oh-so-familiar position of not capitalizing on an opportunity when it first presents itself.
I will employ all of my evil powers to ensure that she will do my bidding.
I must have that purse.
As said accessory is currently prominently displayed at the TJ Maxx, waiting until tomorrow is not an option. This beauty could be snatched up by some rich unappreciative Waukazoo Woods resident at any moment leaving me in the oh-so-familiar position of not capitalizing on an opportunity when it first presents itself.
I will employ all of my evil powers to ensure that she will do my bidding.
I must have that purse.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
the muppet movie is as good as you remember
It's been a week.
And it ain't over yet.
Today was as busy as I expected it to be. Lots of cutting of flyers for an outreach event on Saturday. I'm heading to one of the local movie theaters with a co-worker to register people for library cards. Though it means I'll be unable to attend mulitple fun events this weekend, I'm actually pretty excited about this. I love promoting the library in the community. And last night I came up with a brilliant idea during a harvest party celebration: if you register for a card you'll automatically be entered to win a 4 pack of free movie tickets compliments of the theater. Plus we'll be advertising for the DVD Release Parties, the Family Holiday Film nights, and the other events that we aren't associated with that are for the most part lame, but we're all a team so let's work together folks!
Attempting an attitude adjustment here at work.
Though the A Librarian's Guide to Etiquette pretty much summed up my feelings a few days ago:
Out, Burning
Librarians should be weary of being too good at their jobs. The momentary high that comes with exercising your innovations, creativity, efficiency, and skill will only be followed by a deep dive into bitterness and cynicism. So skip all the hard work and join your miserable coworkers now in the professional funk that is librarianship.
yeeeah.
On a good note, I went secondhand clothes shopping this week and made out like a bandit. 2 pairs of work pants (1 pair from J. Jill that are only missing a button and are supercute wide-ish legged corduroy), 1 short lil' tweed skirt, 1 wool/jersey dress, 1 vest (last fall I wanted a vest. I was mocked. This fall I got one. I was so ahead of my time) and 1 sweet sweet sweet vintage black cardigan with hand beading that needs a little tiny bit of repair work on the lining. My total: $22.20. FOR EVERYTHING. I still have accessories to purchase. Most notably some tights, belts, and shirts. But I got all of that at one store. And there are a ton of options here in town for second hand shopping. I'm totally hooked.
Chafee's win in the Republican primary in R.I. doesn't exactly bode well for the Democrats Senate takeback plan. I made a bold prediction last night that this would clinch it for the Republicans remaining in power, but I think I want to take that back. Whitehouse has a pretty good shot at dethroning Chafee. We'll just have to see what those crazy New Englanders will do.
Though R.I. is a blue state, I know of some other New England states that have a tendency to be a little independent minded and uncomfortable with being completely partisan.
25 minutes left in this day and counting...
And it ain't over yet.
Today was as busy as I expected it to be. Lots of cutting of flyers for an outreach event on Saturday. I'm heading to one of the local movie theaters with a co-worker to register people for library cards. Though it means I'll be unable to attend mulitple fun events this weekend, I'm actually pretty excited about this. I love promoting the library in the community. And last night I came up with a brilliant idea during a harvest party celebration: if you register for a card you'll automatically be entered to win a 4 pack of free movie tickets compliments of the theater. Plus we'll be advertising for the DVD Release Parties, the Family Holiday Film nights, and the other events that we aren't associated with that are for the most part lame, but we're all a team so let's work together folks!
Attempting an attitude adjustment here at work.
Though the A Librarian's Guide to Etiquette pretty much summed up my feelings a few days ago:
Out, Burning
Librarians should be weary of being too good at their jobs. The momentary high that comes with exercising your innovations, creativity, efficiency, and skill will only be followed by a deep dive into bitterness and cynicism. So skip all the hard work and join your miserable coworkers now in the professional funk that is librarianship.
yeeeah.
On a good note, I went secondhand clothes shopping this week and made out like a bandit. 2 pairs of work pants (1 pair from J. Jill that are only missing a button and are supercute wide-ish legged corduroy), 1 short lil' tweed skirt, 1 wool/jersey dress, 1 vest (last fall I wanted a vest. I was mocked. This fall I got one. I was so ahead of my time) and 1 sweet sweet sweet vintage black cardigan with hand beading that needs a little tiny bit of repair work on the lining. My total: $22.20. FOR EVERYTHING. I still have accessories to purchase. Most notably some tights, belts, and shirts. But I got all of that at one store. And there are a ton of options here in town for second hand shopping. I'm totally hooked.
Chafee's win in the Republican primary in R.I. doesn't exactly bode well for the Democrats Senate takeback plan. I made a bold prediction last night that this would clinch it for the Republicans remaining in power, but I think I want to take that back. Whitehouse has a pretty good shot at dethroning Chafee. We'll just have to see what those crazy New Englanders will do.
Though R.I. is a blue state, I know of some other New England states that have a tendency to be a little independent minded and uncomfortable with being completely partisan.
25 minutes left in this day and counting...
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
this is what you get for critcizing the administration:
House Majority Leader John Boehner, R-Ohio, said "if you listen to the Democrats, [you] have to wonder if they're more interested in protecting the terrorists than protecting the American people. The fact is these people want to kill Americans -- they have -- and if we don't go after them they will continue to injure and kill Americans."
and from Rick Santorum:
"The very people that planned the attacks are the people who are in Iraq -- al Qaeda in Iraq -- causing that sectarian violence," he said. "Should we ignore that, I ask the senator from Nevada?"
Just when I start believing there really isn't a difference between the 2 parties...
and from Rick Santorum:
"The very people that planned the attacks are the people who are in Iraq -- al Qaeda in Iraq -- causing that sectarian violence," he said. "Should we ignore that, I ask the senator from Nevada?"
Just when I start believing there really isn't a difference between the 2 parties...
Monday, September 11, 2006
monday. again.
Aside from about 10 minutes of Nightline last night, I have successfully avoided the media frenzy surrounding 9/11. No one is going to say anything even remotely groundbreaking about this arbitrary anniversary. I'm mostly avoiding it because it sickens me to see Democrats and Republicans use it for political gain with the upcoming midterm elections.
Dick DeVos has got a couple of new ads out that are really good. In one he goes through her campaign promises from 4 years ago (of course leaving out that some of those promises were blocked by the Republican legislature) and in the other he hits back on her "he-sent-jobs-to-China" ad. What's interesting is that despite his far superior ads his numbers aren't going up. Maybe...just maybe...he won't be able to buy this election afterall.
This weekend went by entirely too quickly. Between Season 2 of Project Runway (it is absolutely DIVINE! Santino and Daniel and my Tim Gunn!) and the little bonfire that could, I feel like the weekend should just be starting. Birthday gathering was pretty much a success though short (some of us needed not consume Jameson. ahem). The Traverac made an appearance. As did Raleigh and his special ladyfriend Lauren. It had been entirely too long since last I'd Raleighed. Though who can blame him when he's got such a charming and lovely companion to keep his attentions occupied.
It's a cold and rainy day here in Western Michigan. Of course the rain managed to hold off until I was just about ready to take off on my bike:
Dick DeVos has got a couple of new ads out that are really good. In one he goes through her campaign promises from 4 years ago (of course leaving out that some of those promises were blocked by the Republican legislature) and in the other he hits back on her "he-sent-jobs-to-China" ad. What's interesting is that despite his far superior ads his numbers aren't going up. Maybe...just maybe...he won't be able to buy this election afterall.
This weekend went by entirely too quickly. Between Season 2 of Project Runway (it is absolutely DIVINE! Santino and Daniel and my Tim Gunn!) and the little bonfire that could, I feel like the weekend should just be starting. Birthday gathering was pretty much a success though short (some of us needed not consume Jameson. ahem). The Traverac made an appearance. As did Raleigh and his special ladyfriend Lauren. It had been entirely too long since last I'd Raleighed. Though who can blame him when he's got such a charming and lovely companion to keep his attentions occupied.
It's a cold and rainy day here in Western Michigan. Of course the rain managed to hold off until I was just about ready to take off on my bike:
- My messenger bag really is waterproof.
- My panties are not.
- Biking in the pouring rain makes one feel slightly insane.
- And really badass.
Friday, September 08, 2006
politics schmolitics! there are much more frightening things on the horizon than a hillary/guilliani matchup
I was planning on a big "rally the troops" optimistic post after yesterday's downer, but a conversation last night left me feeling like it's pretty pointless. There's a reason the URL for this little piece of the blogosphere is whydoicareanyway. Apparently, I'm one of the few who's foolish enough to not give up yet.
Thankfully Season 2 of Project Runway came in for me here at the library. The anticipation of this moment has been almost unbearable as I've been on hold for months. Now that it's here I'm considering a hermit-like weekend filled with 777 minutes of fashion fun. The dresses! The drama! The models! The bitchy queens! It's going to be fabulousness at it's most fabulous! Instead of spending my lunchbreak doing something pointless like writing my congressmen, I wisely spent it catching up on the upcoming fall season.
I have 2 words:
Oh. Dear.
The 80s are back with a vengeance. Babydoll dresses, empire waists, the layered look, capes, leggings, ankle boots, plaids and--horror of horrors!--leg warmers.
LEG WARMERS!
I'm pleased with the copious amounts of knits. And the boyfriend sweater is back. Green and gray are in. That's good. Red lipstick is hot--I can finally wear that Chanel Red I bought a gazillion years ago. And heels. The higher the better. I say yeehaw to that.
Clearly I'm not able to go drop a few thousand dollars on a Dolce and Gabbana original (Harper's Baazar highlighted a dress made of feathers and gold available for a mere $170,000. Riiiiight) so I'll be interested to see what I'm able to come up with. I wish I was a more adept knitter because I'd spend some time making one of those cute knit minidresses or a ginormous oversized cable knit sweater. Regardless, it'll most likely be some mixture of Gap, Banana Republic, Target and hopefully some secondhand storing.
All bravado aside, my weekend will probably be more social than not. After work today I'm heading down to Butch's with coworker Molly for a pineapple mohito and some nosh. There will either be a bonfire or a gathering or a trip to G.R. tomorrow for the birthday celebration. A parental unit dinner was mentioned for Sunday maybe.
Oh well, Heidi Klum, my love.
We have a whole week to be together!
Thankfully Season 2 of Project Runway came in for me here at the library. The anticipation of this moment has been almost unbearable as I've been on hold for months. Now that it's here I'm considering a hermit-like weekend filled with 777 minutes of fashion fun. The dresses! The drama! The models! The bitchy queens! It's going to be fabulousness at it's most fabulous! Instead of spending my lunchbreak doing something pointless like writing my congressmen, I wisely spent it catching up on the upcoming fall season.
I have 2 words:
Oh. Dear.
The 80s are back with a vengeance. Babydoll dresses, empire waists, the layered look, capes, leggings, ankle boots, plaids and--horror of horrors!--leg warmers.
LEG WARMERS!
I'm pleased with the copious amounts of knits. And the boyfriend sweater is back. Green and gray are in. That's good. Red lipstick is hot--I can finally wear that Chanel Red I bought a gazillion years ago. And heels. The higher the better. I say yeehaw to that.
Clearly I'm not able to go drop a few thousand dollars on a Dolce and Gabbana original (Harper's Baazar highlighted a dress made of feathers and gold available for a mere $170,000. Riiiiight) so I'll be interested to see what I'm able to come up with. I wish I was a more adept knitter because I'd spend some time making one of those cute knit minidresses or a ginormous oversized cable knit sweater. Regardless, it'll most likely be some mixture of Gap, Banana Republic, Target and hopefully some secondhand storing.
All bravado aside, my weekend will probably be more social than not. After work today I'm heading down to Butch's with coworker Molly for a pineapple mohito and some nosh. There will either be a bonfire or a gathering or a trip to G.R. tomorrow for the birthday celebration. A parental unit dinner was mentioned for Sunday maybe.
Oh well, Heidi Klum, my love.
We have a whole week to be together!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
doomsday scenario
This little anti-Bush-ite has got to give them props for potentially pulling off the turnaround of a lifetime. Facing a more than likely ousting in November and pathetically low poll numbers, G.W.B. has spent the days leading up to the anniversary of 9/11 reminding Americans that they've been unsuccessful at catching bin Laden, they've created a safe haven for terrorists by invading Iraq and not able to secure it, they've been unable to fight off the Taliban and al Qaeda in Afghanistan, and this whole time the CIA has been holding onto prisoners in secret detention camps.
Why am I impressed?
It might work.
One would think that reminding us bin Laden is still on the lam would make us outraged or at the very least make some of us stand up and say "What the fuck have you been doing these past 5 years besides making the world a more dangerous place for Americans?!" Oddly this doesn't seem to be the case. He's using the tried and true scare tactics that have worked so well in the past: bin Laden's a dangerous man who is out to destroy the U.S. Has anyone else noticed that bin Laden is better for G.W.B. alive and on the loose than he would be either dead or captured?
Regarding Iraq: the only chance the Republican Party has at using what the Democrats will most likely be campaigning on this fall-the public's lack of support for the Iraq war-is to turn it into part of the War on Terror. Will the American people fall for it? Will we look past the obvious which is that we created that situation in Iraq by ousting a dictator? Will we look past the fact that this is, what, the 3rd justification for this war? First it was WMD's. Next it was liberating the Iraqi people. Now it's the War on Terror. If you're incapable of justifying your war, mayhaps you're not equipped to run it.
Remember Afghanistan? The original reason we invaded Afghanistan post-9/11 was that the Taliban was harboring al Qaeda (and we were pissed and needed to bomb the shit out of someone). Remember how quickly we accomplished that mission? Remember how very shortly after our victory we invaded Iraq? Here's a quote from his speech on August 31, 2006:
"In Afghanistan, we saw a vicious tyranny that harbored the terrorists who planned the September the 11th attacks. Within weeks, American forces were in Afghanistan. Along with Afghan allies, we captured or killed hundreds of al Qaeda and Taliban fighters; we closed down their training camps, and we helped the people of Afghanistan replace the Taliban with a democratic government that answers to them. Our enemies saw the transformation in Afghanistan, and they've responded by trying to roll back all the progress. Al Qaeda and the Taliban lost a coveted base in Afghanistan and they know they will never reclaim it when democracy succeeds. And so they're trying to return to power by attacking Afghanistan's free institutions. And they will fail. Forces from 40 nations, including every member of NATO, are now serving alongside American troops to support the new Afghan government. The days of the Taliban are over. The future of Afghanistan belongs to the people of Afghanistan. And the future of Afghanistan belongs to freedom."
And here's a news report from today stating that NATO's top commander is asking for more troops. NATO just took over operations at the end of July and have been surprised just how strong the opposition has been.
I don't think G.W.B. and the NATO commander are even talking about the same universe let alone the same country. I'm guessing America is going to be more likely to buy G.W.B.'s description of events as we're not too fond of being told we failed.
Finally: yesterday's revelation that there are secret prisons being conducted by the CIA seems like kind of stupid move by the White House. Think again! It forces Congress to come up with some sort of court/tribunal that will comply with the SCOTUS ruling earlier this summer. And if the Democrats put up too much of a fight over what the administration wants (ie not allowing defendants access to the evidence against them) the Democrats get painted as looking soft on the War on Terror. In G.W.B.'s perfect world, the U.S. could prosecute them with evidence that was obtained under conditions just short of torture--and wasn't it a nice touch to have the Defense Department come out with new guidelines restricting the use of, some might say, torturous methods like waterboarding just as the CIA is turning over 14 prisoners who have been subject to just such interrogation techniques?
So a recap:
They don't have bin Laden (and they want to keep it that way)
Iraq was a mistake as there were never WMD'S, the sectarian conflict was something we foolishly never foresaw, we've essentially created a safe haven for terrorists, but it's the front lines of the War on Terror so we can't leave.
Afghanistan is just fine unless you actually look at what's happening.
Detaining individuals at secret prisons has done wonders for our international credibility (see the first 3 recap items) and I'm sure will somehow continue to keep America safe.
Mark my words:
the American people are indeed that dumb.
The Republican Party has a real shot at holding onto Congress.
Why am I impressed?
It might work.
One would think that reminding us bin Laden is still on the lam would make us outraged or at the very least make some of us stand up and say "What the fuck have you been doing these past 5 years besides making the world a more dangerous place for Americans?!" Oddly this doesn't seem to be the case. He's using the tried and true scare tactics that have worked so well in the past: bin Laden's a dangerous man who is out to destroy the U.S. Has anyone else noticed that bin Laden is better for G.W.B. alive and on the loose than he would be either dead or captured?
Regarding Iraq: the only chance the Republican Party has at using what the Democrats will most likely be campaigning on this fall-the public's lack of support for the Iraq war-is to turn it into part of the War on Terror. Will the American people fall for it? Will we look past the obvious which is that we created that situation in Iraq by ousting a dictator? Will we look past the fact that this is, what, the 3rd justification for this war? First it was WMD's. Next it was liberating the Iraqi people. Now it's the War on Terror. If you're incapable of justifying your war, mayhaps you're not equipped to run it.
Remember Afghanistan? The original reason we invaded Afghanistan post-9/11 was that the Taliban was harboring al Qaeda (and we were pissed and needed to bomb the shit out of someone). Remember how quickly we accomplished that mission? Remember how very shortly after our victory we invaded Iraq? Here's a quote from his speech on August 31, 2006:
"In Afghanistan, we saw a vicious tyranny that harbored the terrorists who planned the September the 11th attacks. Within weeks, American forces were in Afghanistan. Along with Afghan allies, we captured or killed hundreds of al Qaeda and Taliban fighters; we closed down their training camps, and we helped the people of Afghanistan replace the Taliban with a democratic government that answers to them. Our enemies saw the transformation in Afghanistan, and they've responded by trying to roll back all the progress. Al Qaeda and the Taliban lost a coveted base in Afghanistan and they know they will never reclaim it when democracy succeeds. And so they're trying to return to power by attacking Afghanistan's free institutions. And they will fail. Forces from 40 nations, including every member of NATO, are now serving alongside American troops to support the new Afghan government. The days of the Taliban are over. The future of Afghanistan belongs to the people of Afghanistan. And the future of Afghanistan belongs to freedom."
And here's a news report from today stating that NATO's top commander is asking for more troops. NATO just took over operations at the end of July and have been surprised just how strong the opposition has been.
I don't think G.W.B. and the NATO commander are even talking about the same universe let alone the same country. I'm guessing America is going to be more likely to buy G.W.B.'s description of events as we're not too fond of being told we failed.
Finally: yesterday's revelation that there are secret prisons being conducted by the CIA seems like kind of stupid move by the White House. Think again! It forces Congress to come up with some sort of court/tribunal that will comply with the SCOTUS ruling earlier this summer. And if the Democrats put up too much of a fight over what the administration wants (ie not allowing defendants access to the evidence against them) the Democrats get painted as looking soft on the War on Terror. In G.W.B.'s perfect world, the U.S. could prosecute them with evidence that was obtained under conditions just short of torture--and wasn't it a nice touch to have the Defense Department come out with new guidelines restricting the use of, some might say, torturous methods like waterboarding just as the CIA is turning over 14 prisoners who have been subject to just such interrogation techniques?
So a recap:
They don't have bin Laden (and they want to keep it that way)
Iraq was a mistake as there were never WMD'S, the sectarian conflict was something we foolishly never foresaw, we've essentially created a safe haven for terrorists, but it's the front lines of the War on Terror so we can't leave.
Afghanistan is just fine unless you actually look at what's happening.
Detaining individuals at secret prisons has done wonders for our international credibility (see the first 3 recap items) and I'm sure will somehow continue to keep America safe.
Mark my words:
the American people are indeed that dumb.
The Republican Party has a real shot at holding onto Congress.
Friday, September 01, 2006
now that's what I call fascism!
Wow, am I sick and tired of the administration comparing the war in Iraq/Terrorism (I separate them because to connect them would mean that the terrorists win) to fascism. I'm also really sick of the 9/11-Iraq name-drop:
"Some politicians look at our efforts in Iraq and see a diversion from the war on terror," Bush said. "That would come as news to Osama bin Laden, who proclaimed that the Third World War is raging in Iraq. It would come as news to the No. 2 man of al Qaeda, Zawahiri, who has called the struggle in Iraq, 'the place for the greatest battle.' "
bin Laden didn't say that until after we invaded and screwed that country inside and out. bin Laden said that after it became pretty clear to him and the rest of the world that the mission was not accomplished.
The American people would like to thank you for not only capitalizing on one of the most horrific events this country has endured for your political gain but also for creating the very dangerous global environment we currently find ourselves dealing with due primarily to your failed attempts at holding together a responsible foreign policy.
Thanks also for resorting to your typical scare tactics when your party's poll numbers drop in a midterm election year that's shaping up to be quite a fight and the majority of the country has turned on your pathetic excuse for a war:
"If we give up the fight in the streets of Baghdad, we will face the terrorists in the streets of our own cities," he said."
In other news, it was nice to see this country get it self all wrapped up in a media frenzy over a murder confession that ended up being the ravings of a sick man. We watched "news" footage involving old home videos. We watched "news" footage involving interviews with former high school teachers. We watched "news" footage of him sitting on a plane from Bangkok. The story had enough clout that it not only hit the tabloid news shows, but the networks-both evening and morning shows and my beloved NewsHour. God Bless America and our ability to turn a lie into a hot story.
Man oh man have I got some plans this weekend. Detailed and intricate plans. Plans complex and time-sensitive. Plans involving a wide variety of people and a wide variety of locales. Most of these plans were hatched by myself and my steadfast companion. The two of us. Together. Made some plans.
Take that.
And speaking of that young whippersnapper:
new poem published today!
"Some politicians look at our efforts in Iraq and see a diversion from the war on terror," Bush said. "That would come as news to Osama bin Laden, who proclaimed that the Third World War is raging in Iraq. It would come as news to the No. 2 man of al Qaeda, Zawahiri, who has called the struggle in Iraq, 'the place for the greatest battle.' "
bin Laden didn't say that until after we invaded and screwed that country inside and out. bin Laden said that after it became pretty clear to him and the rest of the world that the mission was not accomplished.
The American people would like to thank you for not only capitalizing on one of the most horrific events this country has endured for your political gain but also for creating the very dangerous global environment we currently find ourselves dealing with due primarily to your failed attempts at holding together a responsible foreign policy.
Thanks also for resorting to your typical scare tactics when your party's poll numbers drop in a midterm election year that's shaping up to be quite a fight and the majority of the country has turned on your pathetic excuse for a war:
"If we give up the fight in the streets of Baghdad, we will face the terrorists in the streets of our own cities," he said."
In other news, it was nice to see this country get it self all wrapped up in a media frenzy over a murder confession that ended up being the ravings of a sick man. We watched "news" footage involving old home videos. We watched "news" footage involving interviews with former high school teachers. We watched "news" footage of him sitting on a plane from Bangkok. The story had enough clout that it not only hit the tabloid news shows, but the networks-both evening and morning shows and my beloved NewsHour. God Bless America and our ability to turn a lie into a hot story.
Man oh man have I got some plans this weekend. Detailed and intricate plans. Plans complex and time-sensitive. Plans involving a wide variety of people and a wide variety of locales. Most of these plans were hatched by myself and my steadfast companion. The two of us. Together. Made some plans.
Take that.
And speaking of that young whippersnapper:
new poem published today!
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