2011 was a crazy year.
I continued my work with Mommy's Recess.
I continued my work with The SoapBoxers.
I made new friends.
I made new enemies.
I started using my twitter account more.
I spoke in front of a school board (for the first time).
I continued to speak in front of the school board.
I spoke at a City Council meeting (for the first time).
I continued to speak at the City Council meetings.
I made even more friends.
I made even more enemies.
I helped save a barn.
I did the readings at my husband's Grandfather's funeral.
I read a letter from my mother in law to her dad at the funeral, and I publicly cried.
I used my writing talent to write Conservative articles and was promoted to Communications Director of a National Political Action Committee, all while working at home.
I attended my first Conservative Writers Conference (and made more new friends).
I learned more about couponing and started my stockpile.
I followed a passion of mine and joined a Ghost Hunting group.
I made even more new friends.
I went Ghost Hunting.
I had a physical paranormal experience (was scratched on a Ghost Hunt).
I didn't pee my pants after said experience.
I learned how to do audio review after a Ghost Hunt.
I went to my first Iowa State Homecoming Football game.
I learned how to fill out form upon form to get us into a home that not only saved us money but is much bigger and much nicer than what we had.
I learned how to throw things away (I had to--we had too much stuff).
I learned how to get a kid transferred from one school district to another.
I learned how good it felt to have all of our credit cards paid off.
I learned I shouldn't have closed the accounts after paying the credit cards off.
I started writing even more for Yahoo! News...and made even more enemies.
I had an anti-me tweet hastag created about me.
I was on THREE radio shows, twice about the barn, once about a Yahoo! News article (and Ghost Hunting).
I learned how to bless a home with the traditional Catholic blessing and Holy Water.
I met A LOT of Presidential Candidates.
I re-learned how to be comfortable in TV interviews.
I learned how to wrap Christmas presents---fast.
I attended my first Iowa State Basketball game....Court side.
I did a lot in 2011. But overall, I learned more about myself. What my limits are and what they are not. What I thought was something I couldn't do, I did. I surprised even myself.
Here's looking forward to an even happier 2012.
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Showing posts with label politics. Show all posts
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
An Update: A Move, A Conferences, A LOT
Sorry it's been so long since I updated the blog...but we've been busy.
We moved. To a house. With a garage. And it's AWESOME. I can't wait to get some pictures on the wall to help with the acoustics. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the vaulted ceilings. But the toddler screams? The echos? Yeah.
The house is about 500 MORE square feet than what we had before. And TWO more bedrooms. And a two car attached garage. And a doorbell. And a vegetable sprayer. And a yard. And a closer bus stop for Liam. And no stairs to haul kids, groceries etc etc...
And it is LESS than what we were paying at the apartment.
Blessed. I feel so VERY blessed. And speaking of being blessed, we had Liam's first Parent/Teacher conference. To be honest, I felt a little weird. For the first time, I was attending a parent/teacher conference in a elementary school...and I wasn't the kid at home sweating bullets.
And here is where I turn into the mom who brags. Don't like moms who brag, stop reading. You've been warned.
Liam is in Kindergarten. We were informed he's reading at a 2nd-3rd grade level. They even removed him (and another kid) from the class during reading time for a special 2 on 1 with a specialist. Because he was "a reader" as opposed to the other kids in his class. And, as the teacher said, "he even blew me away with words that he knew. Words that didn't follow the normal rules, he got them."
Yes. This is my kid. I remember reading books in first grade and thinking "This is SO stupid. I don't care about Dick and Jane. Can I go home and continue reading my chapter book? Please?"
I even had my first grade teacher call me a "liar". No, really, a liar. We were talking about clocks with hands. I told her we had a clock at my house that had three hands when she said that "clocks only had two hands". I came home crying and the next day, my dad (and hero), came to school with the clock that was my Great Grandmother Sarah (and name sake's) clock in her one room school house. It had three hands. Minute, Hour and Day. She had never seen anything like that.
Most parents say, "My child is brilliant" and as much as I try to NOT be THAT parent, I am. Because he is. He wants to go to Harvard, Notre Dame, Iowa State (because that's where Mommy went) or The University of Texas (because that's where Woody went).
Yeah, he's a smarty pants. Just like his mom. Speaking of mom, I attended a fundraiser this week with Jeff Mullen, my new political job, and had the opportunity to meet Newt Gingrich.
Smarty Pants.
We moved. To a house. With a garage. And it's AWESOME. I can't wait to get some pictures on the wall to help with the acoustics. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE the vaulted ceilings. But the toddler screams? The echos? Yeah.
The house is about 500 MORE square feet than what we had before. And TWO more bedrooms. And a two car attached garage. And a doorbell. And a vegetable sprayer. And a yard. And a closer bus stop for Liam. And no stairs to haul kids, groceries etc etc...
And it is LESS than what we were paying at the apartment.
Blessed. I feel so VERY blessed. And speaking of being blessed, we had Liam's first Parent/Teacher conference. To be honest, I felt a little weird. For the first time, I was attending a parent/teacher conference in a elementary school...and I wasn't the kid at home sweating bullets.
And here is where I turn into the mom who brags. Don't like moms who brag, stop reading. You've been warned.
Liam is in Kindergarten. We were informed he's reading at a 2nd-3rd grade level. They even removed him (and another kid) from the class during reading time for a special 2 on 1 with a specialist. Because he was "a reader" as opposed to the other kids in his class. And, as the teacher said, "he even blew me away with words that he knew. Words that didn't follow the normal rules, he got them."
Yes. This is my kid. I remember reading books in first grade and thinking "This is SO stupid. I don't care about Dick and Jane. Can I go home and continue reading my chapter book? Please?"
I even had my first grade teacher call me a "liar". No, really, a liar. We were talking about clocks with hands. I told her we had a clock at my house that had three hands when she said that "clocks only had two hands". I came home crying and the next day, my dad (and hero), came to school with the clock that was my Great Grandmother Sarah (and name sake's) clock in her one room school house. It had three hands. Minute, Hour and Day. She had never seen anything like that.
Most parents say, "My child is brilliant" and as much as I try to NOT be THAT parent, I am. Because he is. He wants to go to Harvard, Notre Dame, Iowa State (because that's where Mommy went) or The University of Texas (because that's where Woody went).
Yeah, he's a smarty pants. Just like his mom. Speaking of mom, I attended a fundraiser this week with Jeff Mullen, my new political job, and had the opportunity to meet Newt Gingrich.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Really Bob Vander Plaats? Really?
On Sunday over at Mommy's Recess I went out on a limb and wrote Marriage is Between a Man and a Woman...and Bob VanderPlaats. Writing this was scary and refreshing for me. I risked making friends and family angry at me. But I needed to say it. I needed to be honest with myself and my fellow Conservatives.
After I posted it, GOP candidates started refusing to sign it. Now I'm not saying that it was MY blog that made them not sign it....just that I was relieved others had the same opinion as me. When the vow debuted, The Family Leader, led by Bob Vander Plaats of Sioux City, has said it won’t endorse any candidate who doesn’t sign the vow.
And that's just lame. Withholding an endorsement because they won't sign your pledge? Come on. Bob, I was impressed that you and your campaign ousted the State Supreme Court judges. But I'm afraid that gave you too big of a head. Sorry, Bob, but you are not the end-all-be-all spokesperson for Conservative Republicans in Iowa. Believe it or not, we CAN think for ourselves. I still respect you, I do. But you're starting to lose some rank in my book. Bring it down a notch, Bob.
This morning I read VanderPlaats say, “I never have given much weight to endorsements,” Vander Plaats, CEO of the conservative non-profit The Family Leader, said Friday. Now, he was saying that in response to an article calling him a influential supporter. Maybe he's eating some humble pie? I don't know. Threatening you won't endorse people and then saying you don't put weight in endorsements? You can't have it both ways, Bob.
After I posted it, GOP candidates started refusing to sign it. Now I'm not saying that it was MY blog that made them not sign it....just that I was relieved others had the same opinion as me. When the vow debuted, The Family Leader, led by Bob Vander Plaats of Sioux City, has said it won’t endorse any candidate who doesn’t sign the vow.
And that's just lame. Withholding an endorsement because they won't sign your pledge? Come on. Bob, I was impressed that you and your campaign ousted the State Supreme Court judges. But I'm afraid that gave you too big of a head. Sorry, Bob, but you are not the end-all-be-all spokesperson for Conservative Republicans in Iowa. Believe it or not, we CAN think for ourselves. I still respect you, I do. But you're starting to lose some rank in my book. Bring it down a notch, Bob.
This morning I read VanderPlaats say, “I never have given much weight to endorsements,” Vander Plaats, CEO of the conservative non-profit The Family Leader, said Friday. Now, he was saying that in response to an article calling him a influential supporter. Maybe he's eating some humble pie? I don't know. Threatening you won't endorse people and then saying you don't put weight in endorsements? You can't have it both ways, Bob.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Character Counts? Parents Must Live It.
*As always, these blog posts are my own viewpoints and in no way are reflective of or endorsed by "Friends of Maplenol Barn" or Save the Barn Committee.*
Some moms say "I'm just a mom." And that makes me mad. We're not "just" anything. We're everything. Most importantly, we're the first teachers for our children. We're the most important teachers. We need to act as such.
I am not only involved with the Barn group, I'm committed. Kind of like breakfast. The chicken was involved. The eggs are committed. I'm the eggs.
My kids are learning that if there is something that is important to you, you work at it. When it seems like all is lost, you keep trying. You preserve history. You protect it. You stand up for what you believe in. You fight for it.
Let's look at what the program "Character Counts in Iowa" says:
Image from Character Counts in Iowa.
"Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship"
Why would I bring this up? This week we had people calling us for yard signs. People wanted to show their support for the barn. People donated money for a sign and placed it in their own yard.
And what happened? Two girls discovered the size and font of our words and printed out the word "Demolish". They then, under the cover of darkness, targeted our signs by using clear packing tape and taping the word "Demolish" over the word "Save". They even had the audacity to deface a sign in the yard of a West Des Moines Police Officer.
The teenage girls were identified. When a parent of one of the girls was informed about what her daughter had done, the mother replied, "She has her right to free speech."
Well, yes she does. But not when it is trespassing onto private property and defacing personal property. That, my friends, is a crime. The mother continued and, all while having Jesus fish on the back of all of her vehicles, used the "F" word in denying what her child had participated in was a crime. That's REAL Christian.
I'm all for the first amendment. If there are people out there who want to "demolish" the barn, they have the same right that we do. They can make signs of their own, ask people if they would make a donation and place it in their yard.
Respect? None. Fairness? Not so much. Caring? Not a chance.
But after hearing the parent's reaction, I shouldn't be surprised at how the daughter acted. After all, we as parents are the first teacher. Hate breeds hate.
But there we go again, getting back to Character Counts. Citizenship. We are following the letter of the law. Taking all of the appropriate steps and vocalizing our support (in a legal manner) of a historic landmark. We treasure history. If the original barn owner didn't have the vision he did for West Des Moines, Valley wouldn't be where it is and there may be a landing strip for an airport there.
Quite often I am complimented by strangers about how polite my boys are. Please, thank you, may I etc. I always respond, "It took A LOT of work," and I think that's the problem. Some parents fail to see parenting as a job. And why should it be? Put them in front of Spongebob, let them play their Nintendo DS, don't discipline them because they're just "expressing themselves." The Wii can raise kids, right?
Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Parents need to be parents, not friends. Parents need to be role models. Parents should NOT just play lip service to Character Counts. They need to live it. Children need to see their parents living it.
Which brings me to "the children". We've heard "think of the children" ad nauseam about the whole Valley expansion. But are we really thinking of the children? Really really thinking of the children? Let's look at the facts:
Keeping the barn in its current footprint does NOT hinder the Valley expansion at ALL.
Any funds put into the barn are funds we have raised and grants. NO taxpayer money is going to the barn. NONE.
No money that would be applied to education is going to the barn. NONE.
The school district (as outlined in the 28E) would not be responsible for ANY of the construction costs or costs of upkeep. NONE.
The benefits?
A historic and educational tool that would be available for teachers and students to use and learn from and in. WIN.
Bragging rights that they have a piece of Iowa history on their campus. WIN.
A beautiful, usable building on campus for the community to enjoy. WIN.
A landmark. WIN.
To quote Michael Scott, "This is a win, win, win." The school board wins, the community wins, the kids win. Win. Win. Win.
Yes, I may be biased as I am as committed as the egg at breakfast. But I believe in preserving history. As Edmond Burke says, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing," which is why I got involved.
I believe in showing my children we respect our forefathers and our state history.
I believe in showing my kids that even when adults disagree, they can come together and compromise to do what is best for everyone.
I believe and do take my kids to school board and city council meetings. I want them to learn how great our Government is and just how it works.
I believe in raising educated, polite, caring, respectful children.
I am a role model. I know my children are watching me. Character counts. We are the first teachers for our children. We must show them how to act, how to speak and how to care. How to be good citizens.
Yes, I know. I didn't attend Valley. I didn't walk by the barn every day for four years. But I grew up in rural Iowa where we still use barns. It is my family heritage. As Iowans, it is all of our family heritage.
If we destroy the barn, we destroy ourselves. Stop the hate. Save the barn.
Some moms say "I'm just a mom." And that makes me mad. We're not "just" anything. We're everything. Most importantly, we're the first teachers for our children. We're the most important teachers. We need to act as such.
I am not only involved with the Barn group, I'm committed. Kind of like breakfast. The chicken was involved. The eggs are committed. I'm the eggs.
My kids are learning that if there is something that is important to you, you work at it. When it seems like all is lost, you keep trying. You preserve history. You protect it. You stand up for what you believe in. You fight for it.
Let's look at what the program "Character Counts in Iowa" says:
"Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship"
Why would I bring this up? This week we had people calling us for yard signs. People wanted to show their support for the barn. People donated money for a sign and placed it in their own yard.
And what happened? Two girls discovered the size and font of our words and printed out the word "Demolish". They then, under the cover of darkness, targeted our signs by using clear packing tape and taping the word "Demolish" over the word "Save". They even had the audacity to deface a sign in the yard of a West Des Moines Police Officer.
The teenage girls were identified. When a parent of one of the girls was informed about what her daughter had done, the mother replied, "She has her right to free speech."
Well, yes she does. But not when it is trespassing onto private property and defacing personal property. That, my friends, is a crime. The mother continued and, all while having Jesus fish on the back of all of her vehicles, used the "F" word in denying what her child had participated in was a crime. That's REAL Christian.
I'm all for the first amendment. If there are people out there who want to "demolish" the barn, they have the same right that we do. They can make signs of their own, ask people if they would make a donation and place it in their yard.
Respect? None. Fairness? Not so much. Caring? Not a chance.
But after hearing the parent's reaction, I shouldn't be surprised at how the daughter acted. After all, we as parents are the first teacher. Hate breeds hate.
But there we go again, getting back to Character Counts. Citizenship. We are following the letter of the law. Taking all of the appropriate steps and vocalizing our support (in a legal manner) of a historic landmark. We treasure history. If the original barn owner didn't have the vision he did for West Des Moines, Valley wouldn't be where it is and there may be a landing strip for an airport there.
Quite often I am complimented by strangers about how polite my boys are. Please, thank you, may I etc. I always respond, "It took A LOT of work," and I think that's the problem. Some parents fail to see parenting as a job. And why should it be? Put them in front of Spongebob, let them play their Nintendo DS, don't discipline them because they're just "expressing themselves." The Wii can raise kids, right?
Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Parents need to be parents, not friends. Parents need to be role models. Parents should NOT just play lip service to Character Counts. They need to live it. Children need to see their parents living it.
Which brings me to "the children". We've heard "think of the children" ad nauseam about the whole Valley expansion. But are we really thinking of the children? Really really thinking of the children? Let's look at the facts:
Keeping the barn in its current footprint does NOT hinder the Valley expansion at ALL.
Any funds put into the barn are funds we have raised and grants. NO taxpayer money is going to the barn. NONE.
No money that would be applied to education is going to the barn. NONE.
The school district (as outlined in the 28E) would not be responsible for ANY of the construction costs or costs of upkeep. NONE.
The benefits?
A historic and educational tool that would be available for teachers and students to use and learn from and in. WIN.
Bragging rights that they have a piece of Iowa history on their campus. WIN.
A beautiful, usable building on campus for the community to enjoy. WIN.
A landmark. WIN.
To quote Michael Scott, "This is a win, win, win." The school board wins, the community wins, the kids win. Win. Win. Win.
Yes, I may be biased as I am as committed as the egg at breakfast. But I believe in preserving history. As Edmond Burke says, "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good people to do nothing," which is why I got involved.
I believe in showing my children we respect our forefathers and our state history.
I believe in showing my kids that even when adults disagree, they can come together and compromise to do what is best for everyone.
I believe and do take my kids to school board and city council meetings. I want them to learn how great our Government is and just how it works.
I believe in raising educated, polite, caring, respectful children.
I am a role model. I know my children are watching me. Character counts. We are the first teachers for our children. We must show them how to act, how to speak and how to care. How to be good citizens.
Yes, I know. I didn't attend Valley. I didn't walk by the barn every day for four years. But I grew up in rural Iowa where we still use barns. It is my family heritage. As Iowans, it is all of our family heritage.
If we destroy the barn, we destroy ourselves. Stop the hate. Save the barn.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
(Not So) Wordless Wednesday: Public Speaking--Know What Is Appropriate
Usually here on Wednesday it is "Wordless Wednesday". A day when I post a picture that speaks for itself.
*As always, these blog posts are my own viewpoints and in no way are reflective of or endorsed by "Friends of Maplenol Barn" or Save the Barn Committee.*
Today I'm bucking the trend and going outside of the box (insert additional corporate buzz phrase here if you like). As always, this is my personal blog and my comments here are not at all related or endorsed by the Save the Barn Committee or "Friends of Maplenol Barn". All of the comments below are all my own.
At last night's City Council meeting we were discussing the fate of the barn. Yes, I've actually become pretty involved in all things barn. I'm meeting new and great people. I've been lucky enough to be able to network with local media and I'm enjoying the concept of helping keep a piece of history in West Des Moines. We've raised over $200K, have over 2000 supporters on our facebook page in 45 days and in less than 24 hours, distributed 200 yard signs in West Des Moines. With worldwide support (I'm not kidding, we've had 3 different countries sign our online petition) and monetary support coming from all over the US, this is more than just a local issue.
We have some great ideas to make this a in the black revenue wise project. Following the model of the Simpson Barn that is located in Johnston, Iowa and doing a lot of research as a group, this is something that is possible. Only if the school board will allow us to do it. We know of 6 additional grants we can apply for as well. Again, no money out of the pockets of the school district and this does not hinder the education of students at Valley in any way.
I understand some members of the community are not as informed as I am. I've been eating, sleeping, breathing barn for the last few weeks. If they want to be informed, they only need to seek information. Savethebarn.com The web address is printed on our yard signs that, again, are all over West Des Moines. Some people don't understand what "greenspace" and "water detention/retention" is. To be honest, until this all started and I got involved, I couldn't tell you what it was either. I was reminded of a quote of Abe Lincoln's that my dad always said, "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."
At the City Council meeting last night, a fool removed all doubt, for me at least. Stew Hansen, yes THAT Stew Hansen, prominent auto dealer in the Des Moines area attended the meeting. I would think that he would be well aware enough to monitor his comments in such a public forum. After all, negative publicity is bad for business. That's just simple public relations. He is entitled to his opinion, just like any other resident; but there's a way to be professional about it.
Mr. Hansen told another WDM resident at the meeting to "You've got a big mouth and you need to shut it" and he continued to say that the "City was holding the School Board prisoner" with their resolution that was on the table. A resident shouted, "They're holding the barn prisoner" to which Mr. Hansen replied, "Do you want to know my personal feelings about the barn? TO HELL WITH THE BARN." And he yelled it.
I was nursing Brendan at the time and it was probably a good thing I was. It gave me pause. Had I not been nursing Brendan I probably would have let my emotions get the best of me and shouted back. But, having a nursing baby (who was startled awake by Mr. Hansen's uproar) at the breast, I didn't. Oh, the smoke could be seen coming out of my ears, I'm sure. But I held back.
I know our van probably won't make it forever and we'll probably be in the market for a new (or new to us) vehicle in the next few years. I know I will NOT shop at ANY of Mr. Hansen's dealerships. Someone who has such a disregard for proper etiquette at a public forum, a disregard for others at the meeting (the "big mouth" comment) and a disregard for history, well, he can forget about my business.
Just because he's rich doesn't mean he can say whatever he wants and treat others horribly. And that's just what he did. One would think that he would know better than to lose his cool at such a public forum. Rich or not, my vote counts just as much as his does. That's the joy of living in a Democracy.
Mr. Hansen, With all due respect, I believe the woman with a child at her breast may actually have more of a vested interest in future generations. Not that you don't, but I thank you. I thank you for making our future vehicle buying options easier.
*As always, these blog posts are my own viewpoints and in no way are reflective of or endorsed by "Friends of Maplenol Barn" or Save the Barn Committee.*
Today I'm bucking the trend and going outside of the box (insert additional corporate buzz phrase here if you like). As always, this is my personal blog and my comments here are not at all related or endorsed by the Save the Barn Committee or "Friends of Maplenol Barn". All of the comments below are all my own.
At last night's City Council meeting we were discussing the fate of the barn. Yes, I've actually become pretty involved in all things barn. I'm meeting new and great people. I've been lucky enough to be able to network with local media and I'm enjoying the concept of helping keep a piece of history in West Des Moines. We've raised over $200K, have over 2000 supporters on our facebook page in 45 days and in less than 24 hours, distributed 200 yard signs in West Des Moines. With worldwide support (I'm not kidding, we've had 3 different countries sign our online petition) and monetary support coming from all over the US, this is more than just a local issue.
We have some great ideas to make this a in the black revenue wise project. Following the model of the Simpson Barn that is located in Johnston, Iowa and doing a lot of research as a group, this is something that is possible. Only if the school board will allow us to do it. We know of 6 additional grants we can apply for as well. Again, no money out of the pockets of the school district and this does not hinder the education of students at Valley in any way.
I understand some members of the community are not as informed as I am. I've been eating, sleeping, breathing barn for the last few weeks. If they want to be informed, they only need to seek information. Savethebarn.com The web address is printed on our yard signs that, again, are all over West Des Moines. Some people don't understand what "greenspace" and "water detention/retention" is. To be honest, until this all started and I got involved, I couldn't tell you what it was either. I was reminded of a quote of Abe Lincoln's that my dad always said, "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt."
At the City Council meeting last night, a fool removed all doubt, for me at least. Stew Hansen, yes THAT Stew Hansen, prominent auto dealer in the Des Moines area attended the meeting. I would think that he would be well aware enough to monitor his comments in such a public forum. After all, negative publicity is bad for business. That's just simple public relations. He is entitled to his opinion, just like any other resident; but there's a way to be professional about it.
Mr. Hansen told another WDM resident at the meeting to "You've got a big mouth and you need to shut it" and he continued to say that the "City was holding the School Board prisoner" with their resolution that was on the table. A resident shouted, "They're holding the barn prisoner" to which Mr. Hansen replied, "Do you want to know my personal feelings about the barn? TO HELL WITH THE BARN." And he yelled it.
I was nursing Brendan at the time and it was probably a good thing I was. It gave me pause. Had I not been nursing Brendan I probably would have let my emotions get the best of me and shouted back. But, having a nursing baby (who was startled awake by Mr. Hansen's uproar) at the breast, I didn't. Oh, the smoke could be seen coming out of my ears, I'm sure. But I held back.
I know our van probably won't make it forever and we'll probably be in the market for a new (or new to us) vehicle in the next few years. I know I will NOT shop at ANY of Mr. Hansen's dealerships. Someone who has such a disregard for proper etiquette at a public forum, a disregard for others at the meeting (the "big mouth" comment) and a disregard for history, well, he can forget about my business.
Just because he's rich doesn't mean he can say whatever he wants and treat others horribly. And that's just what he did. One would think that he would know better than to lose his cool at such a public forum. Rich or not, my vote counts just as much as his does. That's the joy of living in a Democracy.
Mr. Hansen, With all due respect, I believe the woman with a child at her breast may actually have more of a vested interest in future generations. Not that you don't, but I thank you. I thank you for making our future vehicle buying options easier.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
My Thoughts on the Election
It's been a couple of days and I know you're all holding your breath to hear what I have to think about the elections. However, Brendan and I were sick on Wednesday and Thursday, then Sean got it on Friday-Today, and now Liam's got a sore throat. So I've been a bit busy wiping noses, sucking out noses etc.
On to the elections. These opinions are my own. You may not agree with them. But this is my blog, not yours. :)
I was pleased. Granted, a few of the races in Iowa didn't go as I had hoped, but that's what you'll have. Governor Branstad is again back in Terrace Hill. And Chet is out. I have a feeling we haven't seen the last of him. He'll probably get an appointment as Secretary of Big Luggery in D.C. But whew. Finally. His Administration has been a failure upon a scandal upon a laundry list of bad judgements, failed policies and wrong values.
Speaking of values, all of the judges were voted out. And the world still turns. Imagine that. And for those who say it was against marriage, that wasn't just it. Judges should not legislate from the bench. And that's what they did. It was wrong and Iowans said "No more."
Nationwide, I was pleased that the GOP took over the House. I sure hope that smug look on Pelosi's face has been rubbed off. I was also pleased that more women voted for the Conservative candidates. Finally, women. Vote with your brains that I know you have!
So there it is. My quick thoughts on the election. Now I have a few noses to wipe...again.
On to the elections. These opinions are my own. You may not agree with them. But this is my blog, not yours. :)
I was pleased. Granted, a few of the races in Iowa didn't go as I had hoped, but that's what you'll have. Governor Branstad is again back in Terrace Hill. And Chet is out. I have a feeling we haven't seen the last of him. He'll probably get an appointment as Secretary of Big Luggery in D.C. But whew. Finally. His Administration has been a failure upon a scandal upon a laundry list of bad judgements, failed policies and wrong values.
Speaking of values, all of the judges were voted out. And the world still turns. Imagine that. And for those who say it was against marriage, that wasn't just it. Judges should not legislate from the bench. And that's what they did. It was wrong and Iowans said "No more."
Nationwide, I was pleased that the GOP took over the House. I sure hope that smug look on Pelosi's face has been rubbed off. I was also pleased that more women voted for the Conservative candidates. Finally, women. Vote with your brains that I know you have!
So there it is. My quick thoughts on the election. Now I have a few noses to wipe...again.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Teaching the Importance of Voting
As parents, we have many important roles. We are the first and most important teachers our children will have. My husband and I believe it is important to teach our children why voting is so important. Liam already knows, because last night I told him that "we had to go to bed early, so we could get up early and vote. And then we'll watch exit polls and election results." Liam exclaimed, "YAY! EXIT POLLS!" I was proud.
Being from military families, we know the price of voting. David served in Iraq. His Dad served in Vietnam, he had one Grandfather who served in WWII and the other Grandfather in Korea. My Grandfather served in WWII. We're a militarily strong family. And we know the cost of freedom and the price for the right to vote. So we vote in every election.
We always take the kids with us to the polls. Yes, we're those parents. We explain to the kids about the ballot, the secrecy folder, filling in the circle for who we choose to vote for and finally we have them help us slide our ballot into the machine. We talk about the elections all year and voting for about a week before the election.
We let them stay up late on election night. Again, we're those parents. In a General Election, Liam keeps a notepad of electoral votes, votes needed to win and votes per state. Not only is it teaching him the electoral system, but math as well. In mid-term elections he has a list of candidates and follows exit polls and results.
And, of course, for each child's first election, we take a picture of them with the ballot. This year is no exception.
Happy Voting!
Being from military families, we know the price of voting. David served in Iraq. His Dad served in Vietnam, he had one Grandfather who served in WWII and the other Grandfather in Korea. My Grandfather served in WWII. We're a militarily strong family. And we know the cost of freedom and the price for the right to vote. So we vote in every election.
We always take the kids with us to the polls. Yes, we're those parents. We explain to the kids about the ballot, the secrecy folder, filling in the circle for who we choose to vote for and finally we have them help us slide our ballot into the machine. We talk about the elections all year and voting for about a week before the election.
We let them stay up late on election night. Again, we're those parents. In a General Election, Liam keeps a notepad of electoral votes, votes needed to win and votes per state. Not only is it teaching him the electoral system, but math as well. In mid-term elections he has a list of candidates and follows exit polls and results.
And, of course, for each child's first election, we take a picture of them with the ballot. This year is no exception.
Children do what they see their parents do. Be an example and vote. Take your kids with you. Make them feel included. It's their country, too.
Happy Voting!
Monday, November 1, 2010
Being Raised Political (aka The Cross My Children Bear)
I was not raised political. My parents would always talk about politics but were never really that involved. I remember having yard signs in our yard and going with my parents to vote, but as far as working in the political world, it's not something they did.
I was raised a Democrat. Being Catholic, I believe I was raised a Kennedy Democrat. But I was always taught to think for myself. I remember my folks had a Dukakis yard sign in 1988, and a Perot sign in 1992. One year, we were having a family reunion at the Carroll Rec Center and Tom Harkin happened to be there campaigning. Everyone was lined up to shake his hand and he bypassed me and all of my little cousins. I looked down the line and yelled, "Sure, ignore your future voters!" He did a total 180 and came back to talk to us kids. My Dad grabbed my shoulder tight and I could tell my parents wanted to sink into the wall.
Before my children were even a twinkle in my eye, I was involved in politics. While finishing my last semester at Iowa State, I started working for the Iowa GOP, canvassing door to door in the 2002 election. Being raised a Democrat, my parents weren't sure what I was doing...but let me explore and learn on my own. I also wrote a weekly political column for the Iowa State Daily, taking a Conservative viewpoint. I credit that experience to learning how to take criticism, constructive and not so constructive. I was referred to as the "Ann Coulter" of the news room. Something I knew the other writers perceived to be an insult, I thought it was a compliment.
Believe it or not, I'd get very negative emails and phone calls and even stopped on campus (as my picture ran with the article). I would even get personal injury threats and while they scared me, they never manifested into anything...thankfully.
I continued to work in politics after graduation, first working for the Iowa House Majority Leader and then on Senator Grassley's campaign in 2004. I was also involved in the local Central Committee, first being appointed as Secretary and then elected as Co-Chair of the County Party. While working for Grassley's campaign, I met my husband. We welcomed our first son, Liam, in the fall of 2005.
Liam would spend countless hours at the Polk County headquarters and made many friends with those running for office and the volunteers. He even referred to the County Chair as "Uncle Teddy". He would attend dinners with me and was always so well behaved. He would approach people, shake their hand and say, "Pleased to meet you, my name is Liam Bowman." Seeing people he knew on TV was common for him.
He was also aware of what was going on in the world and in politics. I believe that my husband serving in Iraq caused Liam to grow up and be more mature than his age. He was my closest companion for a year, and I talked to him like an adult, not like a two year old.
I recall coming home from work and daycare, Liam sat on the couch and said, "Mommy, Inna watch Fox Choose." I turned it to Fox News and he sat and watched it. Liam also believed that the word "Democrat" was a naughty word. Anytime someone would say it, he'd respond, "Oooooh, we don't say that!" During the 2008 election, he enjoyed watching McCain's speeches. One time, the cat was sitting on the couch where he wanted to sit and he said, "Move, my friend," including the signature McCain hand gestures.
Now that he's four, going on five, he's paying even more attention to things. The other day he asked me why "those guys on TV are so mean to each other?" I tried to explain to him negative ads and he responded, "But if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." Wouldn't it be nice is life really was that way? I told him about how negative ads work on people who don't do their own research and vote because of what they see on TV. He couldn't understand that. He knew that his dad, his grandpa, his great grandpa, they all fought for the freedoms we have, one of which is voting. "But why would someone vote if they didn't really know what they're voting for?" Good question, Liam.
Maybe he will be a politician some day. Maybe he'll rebel against us and become a Democrat. And that's fine. As long as he came to that conclusion himself, just like I did.
I was raised a Democrat. Being Catholic, I believe I was raised a Kennedy Democrat. But I was always taught to think for myself. I remember my folks had a Dukakis yard sign in 1988, and a Perot sign in 1992. One year, we were having a family reunion at the Carroll Rec Center and Tom Harkin happened to be there campaigning. Everyone was lined up to shake his hand and he bypassed me and all of my little cousins. I looked down the line and yelled, "Sure, ignore your future voters!" He did a total 180 and came back to talk to us kids. My Dad grabbed my shoulder tight and I could tell my parents wanted to sink into the wall.
Before my children were even a twinkle in my eye, I was involved in politics. While finishing my last semester at Iowa State, I started working for the Iowa GOP, canvassing door to door in the 2002 election. Being raised a Democrat, my parents weren't sure what I was doing...but let me explore and learn on my own. I also wrote a weekly political column for the Iowa State Daily, taking a Conservative viewpoint. I credit that experience to learning how to take criticism, constructive and not so constructive. I was referred to as the "Ann Coulter" of the news room. Something I knew the other writers perceived to be an insult, I thought it was a compliment.
Believe it or not, I'd get very negative emails and phone calls and even stopped on campus (as my picture ran with the article). I would even get personal injury threats and while they scared me, they never manifested into anything...thankfully.
I continued to work in politics after graduation, first working for the Iowa House Majority Leader and then on Senator Grassley's campaign in 2004. I was also involved in the local Central Committee, first being appointed as Secretary and then elected as Co-Chair of the County Party. While working for Grassley's campaign, I met my husband. We welcomed our first son, Liam, in the fall of 2005.
Liam would spend countless hours at the Polk County headquarters and made many friends with those running for office and the volunteers. He even referred to the County Chair as "Uncle Teddy". He would attend dinners with me and was always so well behaved. He would approach people, shake their hand and say, "Pleased to meet you, my name is Liam Bowman." Seeing people he knew on TV was common for him.
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| Baby Liam and Iowa's Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey |
He was also aware of what was going on in the world and in politics. I believe that my husband serving in Iraq caused Liam to grow up and be more mature than his age. He was my closest companion for a year, and I talked to him like an adult, not like a two year old.
I recall coming home from work and daycare, Liam sat on the couch and said, "Mommy, Inna watch Fox Choose." I turned it to Fox News and he sat and watched it. Liam also believed that the word "Democrat" was a naughty word. Anytime someone would say it, he'd respond, "Oooooh, we don't say that!" During the 2008 election, he enjoyed watching McCain's speeches. One time, the cat was sitting on the couch where he wanted to sit and he said, "Move, my friend," including the signature McCain hand gestures.
Now that he's four, going on five, he's paying even more attention to things. The other day he asked me why "those guys on TV are so mean to each other?" I tried to explain to him negative ads and he responded, "But if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all." Wouldn't it be nice is life really was that way? I told him about how negative ads work on people who don't do their own research and vote because of what they see on TV. He couldn't understand that. He knew that his dad, his grandpa, his great grandpa, they all fought for the freedoms we have, one of which is voting. "But why would someone vote if they didn't really know what they're voting for?" Good question, Liam.
Maybe he will be a politician some day. Maybe he'll rebel against us and become a Democrat. And that's fine. As long as he came to that conclusion himself, just like I did.
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Bowman Boys First Iowa State Game
Being an Iowa State University Graduate, I always wanted to take my boys to at least one football game. It never really seemed to work out. But this year, we were going. It was Homecoming weekend and I found a great deal on tickets that included a hotdog and a pop.
My brother recently moved to Ames and my boys always love to see their Uncle, Aunt and Cousins. So, they too bought tickets.
It was a beautiful day, the band dressed up in Halloween costumes which was really amusing and it was a Cyclone victory. I had some horrible things happen that were work related and ended up checking emails quite often during the game, but learned a valuable lesson from it. So as long as a lesson is learned, it's not a mistake.
After the game, we rushed back to Des Moines for trick or treating. Needless to say, the kids were exhausted. But it was a great day as a family.
We took a few pictures and now ALL of my boys can say they've been to an Iowa State game. I think we'll have to go to many more. They LOVED it. Go CYCLONES!
My brother recently moved to Ames and my boys always love to see their Uncle, Aunt and Cousins. So, they too bought tickets.
It was a beautiful day, the band dressed up in Halloween costumes which was really amusing and it was a Cyclone victory. I had some horrible things happen that were work related and ended up checking emails quite often during the game, but learned a valuable lesson from it. So as long as a lesson is learned, it's not a mistake.
After the game, we rushed back to Des Moines for trick or treating. Needless to say, the kids were exhausted. But it was a great day as a family.
We took a few pictures and now ALL of my boys can say they've been to an Iowa State game. I think we'll have to go to many more. They LOVED it. Go CYCLONES!
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| Baby's First Iowa State Game |
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| Daddy and Sean--All smiles! |
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| Can you find Waldo? He's in there! |
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| Beautiful fall day in Iowa |
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| Brendan started snoozing at Halftime. What a trooper! |
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Totally Twisted Tuesday...No funds for family???
First of all, I'd like to start of this post by thanking all of my readers. I wouldn't keep writing if no one is reading! I appreciate the comments, both on this blog and via e-mail...keep them coming!! Let's keep this blog alive!!
That being said, I had a family meeting on Saturday at the unit. It was very informative.
They said NOT to send baked goods, as most of them get bugs in them by the time they get to the soldiers. Also, if we don't send enough for the whole unit...Dave gets in trouble. And we don't want that, do we?
Also, they suggested that we NOT put yellow ribbons on trees or the star in the window. Why?? Because it makes your home more of a target. Traditionally, these are put up by family of soldiers. Most soldiers are men. Therefore, many of these homes have the wife/children of the soldiers in them...with no man. So its a target to theives. I know, it's horrible that we can't do this...but better safe than sorry.
I've recieved a few e-mails from folks asking when we can send David items. He's still in the states, so he says nothing is necessary yet. We were informed at the meeting that most of the things the guys need, they can purchase at the PX on base when they get to Iraq. I know he will need some things, and I will give you a list of these things when the time comes.
That being said, we (the two other mothers of soldiers in Dave's unit at the meeting and I) decided we'd like to do a family readiness event this summer for every one. Dave's unit has had a lot of deployments over the last year. The problem is, there is no money in the family fund. That's when a lightbulb went on over my head. Everything happens for a reason. I said, "I used to work for Senator Grassley...I can make a call." And I did. We're working on it right now and hopefully we can get some money so that we can have an event for all of the family. I'm considering making a call to Congressman King (he gave me his cell phone number when he found out that Dave was being deployed) to see what he might be able to do as well.
There was a reason I didn't take that job I was offered at Wells Fargo back in 2003. I had to make connections that I would need in the future...just for this occasion.
Wish me luck, hopefully this will all work out and we can get the ball rolling on this event. I informed Dave of this and he said it was "crap" that there was no money for the family, but he seemed excited that I knew someone who would be able to help us. =)
That being said, I had a family meeting on Saturday at the unit. It was very informative.
They said NOT to send baked goods, as most of them get bugs in them by the time they get to the soldiers. Also, if we don't send enough for the whole unit...Dave gets in trouble. And we don't want that, do we?
Also, they suggested that we NOT put yellow ribbons on trees or the star in the window. Why?? Because it makes your home more of a target. Traditionally, these are put up by family of soldiers. Most soldiers are men. Therefore, many of these homes have the wife/children of the soldiers in them...with no man. So its a target to theives. I know, it's horrible that we can't do this...but better safe than sorry.
I've recieved a few e-mails from folks asking when we can send David items. He's still in the states, so he says nothing is necessary yet. We were informed at the meeting that most of the things the guys need, they can purchase at the PX on base when they get to Iraq. I know he will need some things, and I will give you a list of these things when the time comes.
That being said, we (the two other mothers of soldiers in Dave's unit at the meeting and I) decided we'd like to do a family readiness event this summer for every one. Dave's unit has had a lot of deployments over the last year. The problem is, there is no money in the family fund. That's when a lightbulb went on over my head. Everything happens for a reason. I said, "I used to work for Senator Grassley...I can make a call." And I did. We're working on it right now and hopefully we can get some money so that we can have an event for all of the family. I'm considering making a call to Congressman King (he gave me his cell phone number when he found out that Dave was being deployed) to see what he might be able to do as well.
There was a reason I didn't take that job I was offered at Wells Fargo back in 2003. I had to make connections that I would need in the future...just for this occasion.
Wish me luck, hopefully this will all work out and we can get the ball rolling on this event. I informed Dave of this and he said it was "crap" that there was no money for the family, but he seemed excited that I knew someone who would be able to help us. =)
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
It has come to my attention...
that there are a few of my blog readers who are not pleased with my current living situation. While I do not need to justify myself to ANYONE I feel I need to stand up for myself.
I'm 26 years old. I'm married and we have one 17 month old son. Do you recall how hectic life was when your children were this age? Can you imagine working full time while taking care of your child and your home...and yourself? Can you imagine doing it all alone--KNOWING that your husband is in a region where people are set out to kill him?!?!
I moved in with my sister in law for many reasons.
For financial help. I plan on putting money aside so when David returns, most of our debt will be paid off and we will have a nice downpayment for a home.
I did it for emotional help. Surviving a deployment isn't easy. Knowing your husband is in harms way, knowing that he is seeing things that NO ONE should see isn't going to be easy on him. Having him in such a dangerous place isn't going to be easy on me. I cannot call him if I want. I cannot hear his voice or see his face every day. I just wait and pray that no officer comes to our door in the middle of the night to deliver horrible news...and I wait. I wait for the day he calls to tell me, "Honey, I'm coming home."
I have accomplished quite a bit in my 26 years on this planet. I have TWO college degrees. I graduated with honors. I have worked on a Senatorial campaign. I have had my poetry published. I have been a published opinion columnist.
I have a wonderful selfless husband and we have a bright, friendly, loving little boy. I have made a great name for myself, not only in the political realm but in Des Moines. I have risen the ranks from member of the Polk County Republican Central Committee to Secretary to Co-Chair. I am a breastfeeding mentor to three young mothers, and they are all succeeding. I have many great friends and collegues. And I'm planning for my future.
So we don't own a home. How many 26 year olds really do? We have a plan. And we're working our plan. Some may say that, at the age of 26, I should have more. I think I have plenty for where I am at right now. I've experienced a lot. A lot more than most 50 year olds. Homes, cars, expensive purses and shoes are just things. You can't take them with you when you go...but as long as people remember you, you live on. I've touched many lives so far with my mentoring, my writing, my political work...and I do not plan to stop.
So yes, for now I am living in the lower level of my sister in law's home.
But keep in mind that I am living there because my husband is over fighting a war so that your husband/brother/son doesn't have to.
The last thing I need right now is people judging me and my decisions at this point in my life, when I need support the most. I appreciate all of the support I've had so far...from my parents, my in-laws, our friends...and all of the support will be remembered.
I leave you with this:
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment that you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye," when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.
Matthew 7. 1-5
I'm 26 years old. I'm married and we have one 17 month old son. Do you recall how hectic life was when your children were this age? Can you imagine working full time while taking care of your child and your home...and yourself? Can you imagine doing it all alone--KNOWING that your husband is in a region where people are set out to kill him?!?!
I moved in with my sister in law for many reasons.
For financial help. I plan on putting money aside so when David returns, most of our debt will be paid off and we will have a nice downpayment for a home.
I did it for emotional help. Surviving a deployment isn't easy. Knowing your husband is in harms way, knowing that he is seeing things that NO ONE should see isn't going to be easy on him. Having him in such a dangerous place isn't going to be easy on me. I cannot call him if I want. I cannot hear his voice or see his face every day. I just wait and pray that no officer comes to our door in the middle of the night to deliver horrible news...and I wait. I wait for the day he calls to tell me, "Honey, I'm coming home."
I have accomplished quite a bit in my 26 years on this planet. I have TWO college degrees. I graduated with honors. I have worked on a Senatorial campaign. I have had my poetry published. I have been a published opinion columnist.
I have a wonderful selfless husband and we have a bright, friendly, loving little boy. I have made a great name for myself, not only in the political realm but in Des Moines. I have risen the ranks from member of the Polk County Republican Central Committee to Secretary to Co-Chair. I am a breastfeeding mentor to three young mothers, and they are all succeeding. I have many great friends and collegues. And I'm planning for my future.
So we don't own a home. How many 26 year olds really do? We have a plan. And we're working our plan. Some may say that, at the age of 26, I should have more. I think I have plenty for where I am at right now. I've experienced a lot. A lot more than most 50 year olds. Homes, cars, expensive purses and shoes are just things. You can't take them with you when you go...but as long as people remember you, you live on. I've touched many lives so far with my mentoring, my writing, my political work...and I do not plan to stop.
So yes, for now I am living in the lower level of my sister in law's home.
But keep in mind that I am living there because my husband is over fighting a war so that your husband/brother/son doesn't have to.
The last thing I need right now is people judging me and my decisions at this point in my life, when I need support the most. I appreciate all of the support I've had so far...from my parents, my in-laws, our friends...and all of the support will be remembered.
I leave you with this:
Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment that you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, "Let me take the speck out of your eye," when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye.
Matthew 7. 1-5
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Totally Twisted Tuesday...What NOT to Say to an Army Wife...
I recently heard someone say, "We need to pull out of Iraq. Our guys aren't doing anything over there."
Yeah. You DON'T say that to someone whose husband just left to go over there. Not cool. Thankfully, someone did stand up and say, "I don't appreciate your comment."
Everyone is entitled to their opinion...but keep your audience in mind before speaking.
I'm only a week into the deployment and I've already heard too many things that I hope to never hear again...
Examples:
Do you miss him?
Of course I miss him! He's my husband!
I don't know what I'd do if my husband was away for three days much less 18 months!
I hardly notice if he's gone for three days. He's done months at a time for training. I miss him horribly any time he's gone, but that's the job of an Army wife!
Will you be scared of him when he comes back?
No. Why should I be?
It must be so hard. Isn't it hard?
No, it's easy (note the sarcasam). Yes it's hard. Thanks for reminding me.
Your husband should come back. He has no business being over there.
Hey, thanks for the support, asshat! Just keep in mind that the reason you can say what you feel is because my husband is fighting so you can have that freedom.
And the worst one so far???
It must be hard with your husband leaving you.
No. My husband didn't leave me. He's deployed. There is a BIG difference.
Yeah. You DON'T say that to someone whose husband just left to go over there. Not cool. Thankfully, someone did stand up and say, "I don't appreciate your comment."
Everyone is entitled to their opinion...but keep your audience in mind before speaking.
I'm only a week into the deployment and I've already heard too many things that I hope to never hear again...
Examples:
Do you miss him?
Of course I miss him! He's my husband!
I don't know what I'd do if my husband was away for three days much less 18 months!
I hardly notice if he's gone for three days. He's done months at a time for training. I miss him horribly any time he's gone, but that's the job of an Army wife!
Will you be scared of him when he comes back?
No. Why should I be?
It must be so hard. Isn't it hard?
No, it's easy (note the sarcasam). Yes it's hard. Thanks for reminding me.
Your husband should come back. He has no business being over there.
Hey, thanks for the support, asshat! Just keep in mind that the reason you can say what you feel is because my husband is fighting so you can have that freedom.
And the worst one so far???
It must be hard with your husband leaving you.
No. My husband didn't leave me. He's deployed. There is a BIG difference.
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