Ring in the Hope

First off, I am giving myself a slap on the wrist for taking so long to blog. No excuses, but December kind of blew past me without much thought about what was going on in local, national or international news. I've thought about a few things, but haven't been "connected" to the news in 3 weeks. I think I might have just needed a bit of a news cycle break.

With a little less than 12 hours before we ring in 2009, I just wanted to wish the three of you (and you know who you are) a very wonderful new year. Looking back, we've all gone through some rough patches with family,relationships, health, professional ambitions, and of course the economy slowing everything else down. While it wasn't all a downer, hopefully there are many things in 08 that you will have happy memories about; new homes, new babies, new jobs, new organs and best of all a new President. I hope that all around 2009 brings us more opportunities and less struggles in all aspects of our lives.

So right now, I am raising a mug of coffee, but later tonite a glass of some sort of alcoholic beverage to all of you and wishing you a hopeful, healthy, and Obama New Year!

Let's Talk

Dear fellow holiday card senders

We need to talk. Some of you may know of my "holiday card" book. It's the book I keep that has everyone's name and addresses along with if I have sent you a card and if I have received a card from you. I enjoy holiday cards I receive but lately I have become very disappointed in what I have found in my mailbox. These are the labeled cards.

Labeled cards, where you label the recipient's name, your address is labeled and then the card is pre-printed with your holiday message inside. I understand that it is the thought that counts, but really is there any thought process to these cards, other than to wonder if you should sent a card to your perspective recipient. I don't ask for much, but how about a little hand written "Happy Holidays" + your signatures. At least I know then that you genuinely care or took the time to think about about me or my family during the holiday season.

I understand that people are busy and also understand that there might not be a lot of time to actually send out cards. I just hope that holiday card sharing hasn't become something of a necessity but rather something you want to do to share a your hope for a safe and peaceful holiday season with those you care about.

Blue State

This morning I as well as other Illinois residents woke up to the news that our governor was taken into custody by FBI agents on charges of corruption. Information and rumors of what was going on in the Governor's office have been brewing for the past several years. Listening to U.S. Attorney Fitzgerald this morning I was shocked and baffled by the extent of what was happening and exactly who, what, where, when and why.Since the news broke, I have listened to talk radio and NPR to hear more about the charges as well as what will happen next.

I am not sure where to start in this blog, so I guess I'll just tell you my feelings on the whole thing. This was said this morning by someone else, I can't tell if Governor Blago is arrogant or ignorant. For a man who has been under investigation and was named several times during the Tony Rezko trial he should have known his head was on the chopping block. To listen to the press conference today with Patrick Fitzgerald I am shocked by the arrogance of a man who thought that he could sell the President elect Obama's senate seat to the highest bidder and then also try get himself AND his wife a better higher paying job either with the Obama administration or with a union. It's the audacity of this man that has me baffled. Not only was this man screwing with the senate seat he was also screwing with the well being of the United States!

Additionally, the allegations of trying to get Chicago Tribune editors fired over bad press that he was receiving in exchange for help selling the Chicago Cubs and Wrigley Field is mind blowing. Who thinks they have that much power?! Usually a way to get bad press to go away is to not do things like hmmm let's say sell US Senate seats!

I am glad that the federal government stepped in when they did rather than wait until the spring to bring charges against the governor. Unfortunately other than having his name plastered all over world as being charged in corruption that is all that will happen. He goes back to being Governor of Illinois until the Illinois Legislature takes measures to impeach him. I just hope that the State of Illinois can get it together before January 20th and find ourselves a good hard working Senator that will not have this looming over their head and won't be tainted by all that has happened.

Oh yeah, one last thing. Former Illinois Governor George Ryan is in prison, found guilty of corruption and sentenced to I think y7 1/2 ears in prison. Over the past couple of weeks, there has been a lot of back and forth regarding asking President Bush to pardon or at least commute Govern Ryan's sentence due to his age (72) and the health of his ailing wife. Many politicians in Illinois have weighed in on the opinion of commuting Governor Ryan's sentence; asked a few weeks ago Governor Blagojavich stated that Governor Ryan should not have his sentence commuted and if he was convicted of the crime, he should do the time. Karma?

Update: I just finished reading the 76 page complaint against Governor Blagojavich and Chief of Staff, John Harris, it's official. Governor Blagojavich is delusional and definitely has a very big opinion of himself and the power/influence he may wield.

Obamapalooza

I should have been more on top of this, but I just now got around to finding my camera and the attachment for the computer to upload pictures from the Obama Rally on Election night. If you blow these pictures up and squint you MAY see Obama speaking.

This is when they announced that Obama was the projected winner,

The City of Chicago glowing

Do you see him?!?!?!?!

Strategy

I've been thinking about the President-elect- Obama's thoughts on placing Senator Hillary Clinton in his cabinet. It's not that I don't think it is a good idea; having the Senator as part of the cabinet and especially as Secretary of State is a very good choice. But for once I am thinking strategy for Senator Clinton.

If just IF Obama is a 2 term president (I know I am getting ahead of myself), I don't see Senator Biden running for president in 8 years, he will be 74 years old. Which leads to another election where there won't be an incumbent from either party. If Senator Clinton's "dream" is to be the President of the United States someday, taking a job in Obama's cabinet probably won't get her a step closer to being president, but rather father away. Yes, she still will be in the public eye and if selected as Secretary of State will continue to strengthen her foreign policy experience, but history is not on her side. The last Secretary of State to become president was Martin Van Buren in 1837. 1837! That was a long, long, long time ago when cabinet positions, and the office of the Vice President and President basically rotated around the good old boys of New York, Massachusetts and Virgina.

While there is news whirling around that there might be some issues if she does become Secretary of State; but I think what might be best for her and her ambition to become President of the United States . If she just stays in the Senate until her term is up, and then runs for her Senate seat again in 2012. She will be in a prime spot to have more foreign and domestic policy experience under her belt which would put her in a prime slot to win the Democratic nomination and go on to be President. Realistically, this seems like a much better plan of attack. Doesn't that seem like a better idea? Strategy, it's all strategy.

Role Models

I began this post several weeks before the election but didn't know how to address the issue of role models for girls when it comes to public service, but now I think I have my answer. I could go back into history and name off many women, but I'll keep it to those women who have been in the headlines over the past couple of years.


Governor Sarah Palin: Not a role model for young girls looking to get into public service. A pretty face and coming off folksy can only get you so far after that, you've got to know your stuff. Being prepared and knowing the issues are key to being in the pubic spotlight, which will then bring confidence to those who are your followers and soon to be supporters. "You bettcha" isn't good English either.


Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice: Role Model. Here is a woman that young women can look up to. She is highly educated, knows her stuff and is just a well rounded individual. Hey, if you are going to be a Republican, this is the female Republican to look up to.


Senator Hillary Clinton: Not a Role / Role Model This is the woman where you want to pick and choose her characteristics that you want your young daughter to emulate. A very smart woman who definitely knows her stuff, but sometimes steps over the line. Senator Clinton while as a professional woman has been very successful, it's the power hungry-ness and sense of entitlement that bothers me.


Michelle Obama: Role Model There is still a lot to see of what Michelle Obama makes of her First Lady status. But as a working successful woman and mother there isn't much about Michelle Obama not to like. She is highly educated, is very well spoken, knows what she is talking about and an all around strong woman.


Christine Todd Whitman: Role Model Ok, I dig this woman. I've blogged about her before as a potential VP candidate for McCain -he obviously doesn't read my blog. Governor Whitman isn't shy about giving her point of view and as we all know got her fired from the Bush II Administration cabinet. As the other women above, she is strong willed and educated and definitely someone who (if I ever have a daughter) I would use as a role model for young women seeking to go into public service.

I could go on and on and on, and I know I've missed many other women that you might find worthy of Role Model status. Please, let me know who you would add and we will continue this discussion.

He is OUT!

Dear Mr. Lieberman:

It's official, our relationship is now over. At first I thought you were just being an independent and trying to work both sides of the aisle to make our country a better place. As a democrat, I saw your switch to an independent as a good and strategic move; but lately I have been thinking that maybe your motives were personal. Were you feeling slighted by the party that had you as their nominee for Vice President 4 years ago?

Now Mr. Lieberman, we are taking it personally. As an independent you are able to support whomever you would like during the campaign and you did. You stayed out of the public eye for most of the campaign until the very end when you were seen standing behind Senator McCain at many of his campaign rallies while also taking part and hanging out with the Democratic Caucus.

You can't have it both ways and I along with Senator Reid are slighted by your actions.

Maybe Senator McCain should have listened to his gut and picked you rather than Caribou Barbie, but I think again you would be in the same situation are you now. Please Mr. Lieberman, you've been given your hat, be gracious and respectful to others that you've let down.

Sincerely,

Realpolitik Mama

UPDATE: The Democrats voted. Senator Lieberman is still in. Read this letter to Senator Lieberman

Obamacoma

Yesterday was historic in many ways and thanks to a very good friend I was able to be a part of the celebration by attending the rally at Grant Park or Obamapalooza. What a night! While I stood in Grant Park with over 70,000 of my bestest friends (and Oprah) I got to experience an election party for the 44th President of the United States. photos to be posted soon

Initially, I didn't know how I would react either good or bad, but when CNN announced Senator Obama as the projected winner, when everyone just let out a big cheer, I was astounded, excited and just happy it was all over. My thoughts first went to the daunting challenge ahead for him and the country as we begin to rebuild as well as heal the very distinct division in this country over ideology. There are so many things that need to be "fixed" right now that while I have some uneasiness, but things are bound to get better. This was before Obama actual speech. After Senator Obama came out and spoke to us and the world, my uneasiness faded. It is still there a bit, but my hope for a brighter future on both national and foreign policy issues is stronger than ever.

Now the work begins. In my eyes the right candidate won and will lead us all in the right direction, but I don't wear rose colored glasses. The 4 years and 76 days until the next inauguration day will be a tough and I hope that the issues raised in the campaigns will continue to be scrutinized to keep us challenged and on the path for a better tomorrow.

Let the Voting Begin!

After 2 years and hours and hours of news coverage, today is the day! I'll keep it short, since I am on the way to the polls myself and then between playdates and ironing a pile of clothes will be glued to the TV. Please exercise your right as a U.S. citizen and go vote! Tomorrow is a new day and maybe even a play by play of the Obama rally in Grant park.

Opposing Views

Several of my mom friends have mentioned that they need to start learning more about what the "other side" thinks about the issues, rather than continuing to read and listen to those who we agree with; some have chosen the Fox News Channel route while others haven't come up with a better alternative. I think I may have found that alternative and am sharing it with you.

Opposingviews.com is a debate site where experts go head-to-head on a variety of topics. With Election Day approaching, some of you might want to learn more about what the other side thinks and it may strengthen your own views on a particular topic, be it the war in Iraq, a national heath care system, reproductive rights, etc. or you may change your mind - who knows.
But I believe it is my duty to help you, my reader(s), to learn more about issues that you are interested or passionate about and hopefully strengthen your beliefs and ideals.

Yeah, I've got a question.

Realpolitik Mama had a few hours to herself yesterday morning. Not enough to finish all of my coffee or the Sunday paper but enough time to get through some of the paper as well as watch a few minutes of my favorite Sunday morning talk show. Now we've been listening to a lot or rhetoric from the McCain camp about shutting down the pork barrel spending that happens in the Congress and how dare Senator Obama look out for his own constituents and approve a bill that allowed the Adler Planetarium to purchase a new projector. Which by the way was incorrect, read the real story here.

Earmarks or pork barrel projects are where lawmakers insert money for special projects into congressional appropriations bills. These special projects are for the most part designed to happen and benefit the congressional district or state that said representative is from. I remember when I was in college there was a big to do over several federally funded projects that Loyola University of Chicago received because of former Congressman and Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, Dan Rostenkowski's influence.

Now before I pose my question, don't get me wrong I am not saying that earmarks are a good thing. There are plenty of special projects out there that are unnecessary and probably shouldn't be funded and there is a way to weed those out.

So my question. Are we supposed to believe that John McCain has NEVER voted for a bill or asked to push an appropriations bill through to help his great state of Arizona? In his 24 + years as a Senator his has done NOTHING to help bring jobs and money to his constituents and his state?

I think I found my answer or answers.

Bitter State?

The political talk circuit has been a buzz with Former Secretary of State/Joint Chiefs of Staff General Colin Powell's endorsement of Senator Obama. When I first heard about the announcement I don't think I was as surprised as many others are about the endorsement. What else would a man who was thrown under the bus by the Bush Administration and then hung out to dry do?!

Ok, so he isn't making it personal and I am glad that General Powell kept to the issues. I am happy he raised the same concern as many of us have about the Sarah Palin; she isn't ready or qualified to be Vice President or for that matter President. For a man who has been so well respected in the Republican Party to come out and say what he says is huge, don't get me wrong, and I am glad that someone from "the other side" has come out and said it.

The pundits are right, this is a big nail in the coffin for the McCain campaign. A well respected conservative veteran, and former Secretary of State comes out and endorses the guy that people criticize for not having any foreign policy experience and crazy ideas on diplomacy. The General got it right. Very right.

Oh yeah, one more thing. The McCain camp's reaction? Well, that is great but we are still endorsed by over 300 retired generals and admirals + many other former Secretary of States. Alexander Haig is on that list! A man who didn't know the order of secession when President Regan was shot!

Vote Early

and here in Chicago, they say "Vote Often". While I don't condone voting often, for those who have to go to work early or leave work late, always seem to forget about election day, or just want to beat the rush. GO VOTE. Many states are offering early voting, please find out if your state and county offer these options.

Realpolitik Toddler will be wearing this shirt for the next 21 days to do his civic duty to get everyone else out to vote. I call it TGOTV - Toddler Get Out The Vote! For your own shirt go to www.babypolitico.com

When the going gets tough, the tough get U.G.L.Y.

I am a little confused. As a friend of mine said a while ago, I thought this election was going to be different and we are going to stick to the issues without getting personal. But yet again, it's gotten U.G.L.Y. Between the McCain - Palin campaign's desperate smears against Barack Obama, to the Elizabeth Hasselback taking up the McCain cause and pushing Obama's "radical connections"on of all places The View. This election has gotten U.G.L.Y. Ugly I say.

To me a lot of what is out there right now is reminiscent of what the Clinton campaign pulled in the spring when they were grasping for anything to bring down the Obama campaign. We know how that worked. These personal attacks and not sticking to the issues of this campaign, especially when we are in the BIGGEST economic crisis of our time, only shows the lack of substance the McCain campaign has on the issues. While it is easy to go the route of the McCain campaign and smear the opponents, I am happy to see the tie in with the Keating Five with current events rather than just naming names that are associated with a candidate.

Here is the thing

Many of you might be wondering why I didn't comment on the VP debate on Thursday night. So, here is the thing. I am not sure I could add any additional commentary on what has already been said. I am not loosing my touch, I just don't want to belabor the point. All I will say is SNL did it right when Joe Biden said "I am better than that" pointing at Palin.

Vote

Facebook

I would like to think I have my finger directly on the pulse of new technology, music, restaurants in my fair city, etc - which means that I've known about Facebook and MySpace for several years. The boom of social networking sites has been huge, and lately more and more people have been talking about these sites to me and all the people they have reconnected with after joining.


Ultimately, I am not a person who likes to be "found". The people I am friends with from high school and college, have been my friends for a very long time and I've chosen to keep them in my life. Others, not so much. I am the person you see at the mall when you go home for the holidays who will actually turn around and go in the opposite direction if spotted. I am not sure why people feel a need to bond with you because you've gone to the same high school/college. Yes, I am as curious as the next person when it comes to "where are they now" but I think that is where it ends. I don't have much of a burning desire to connect or reconnect with individuals in my past. I'll be the first to readily admit that I have issues and this would probably be the main reason why I haven't yet signed up for Facebook or My Space, until today and I am still not convinced.

Some, not all ,of my friends have Facebook pages. In fact I got a call from my cousin in Greece who asked me if I Facebook. The deal closer for me and Facebook was one of my favorite artists sent an email that he is now of Facebook. So I thought I would give it a try. Filled in all my information, registered for Facebook and away I went. It took me a while to get the information inputed and actually couldn't find a decent picture of myself to put on my page, so I skipped all that and went to "Find people" I started with my high school. Of those from my graduating class, only one person I cared enough about to see what they were up to, but not enough to make them my "friend". College. The same thing. I didn't get any farther than that, because Realpolitik toddler woke up from his nap. So the jury is still out if Facebook will be in, or "ouft".

REGISTER

Just like when you were in school, to participate you have to register.

So, if you haven't yet done so, please register yourself to vote. Many states' deadlines are coming up in the next several weeks.

To find out the deadline for your state visit http://www.rockthevote.com/voting-is-easy/important-dates/.

I couldn't have said it any better.

After watching the Sarah Palin be paraded in front of the media and the McCain campaign doing everything in their power to protect Mrs. Palin from any rogue questions, I am glad someone else has come out and say what I've been thinking!

You Read Me, You Really Do Read Me!!!

Yeah my first comment! I am beyond ecstatic that I have finally received my first comment on this blog, which means there is someone out there that actually reads what I have to say. For a moment there I thought I was the only one.

I wish I could have some sort of prize or something my my first blog comment, but unfortunately I have nothing to give other than what I write. But maybe some day, just maybe I hit it big time, I'll reward my first blog commenter with a fabulous prize. In the meantime, myself esteem has increased 110%!

Taking it to the Kitchens

I've been a little out of it lately and haven't read, blogged or done much else for the past couple of weeks. Part of it is realpolitik toddler hasn't been napping, so I haven't had much time to sit and read and blog. But miraculously today, we are napping, so time to blog.

Women, women, women. Like 1996, 2000,and 2004, women, and specifically mothers will make the difference in this year's campaign. We moms have been courted time and time again and this year isn't any different and I am not sure how I feel about it. I understand the demographic that each campaign is trying to get to and introducing their candidate to this demographic, but I think I am insulted the way both have gone about it. Senator and Cindy McCain on Rachel Ray and Michelle Obama on Paula Deen's show , does this mean that this is the only type of television that mother's watch? Cooking shows? Now I understand that it is to show a different side to the candidates, actually just to Senator McCain, since Barack Obama wasn't on Deen's show, but I would be curious to see some numbers on if individuals that stay home, like mothers, that will actually base their opinions on who they will vote for by how the candidate or significant other of the candidate performed on a let's face it, a talk show. Again, I understand widening the base and it makes for riveting TV, to watch Senator McSame (McCain) make his rib recipe, but yet again I am a little bothered by the indication that is how I and other mothers get to know the candidates.

Executive Privilege

I'll be the first to admit that when it comes to economics I am not the sharpest knife in the drawer. My area of expertise goes as far as supply and demand and that is about it. As an avid fan of NPR, I do get a chance to listen to MarketPlace, so while I know what is going on, I won't say that I understand it completely.

Having said that, I've been doing some research on Secretary Paulson's bail out bill in front of Congress to get a better grip of what this means for me and the other 2 of you who read this blog. Of everything that I have read, what struck as the biggest slip under the rug move since, GITMO, is Section 8 of the bill that states "Decisions by the Secretary pursuant to the authority of this Act are non-reviewable and committed to agency discretion, and may not be reviewed by any court of law or any administrative agency." What?! Huh? Got you've to be kidding me? I thought I remember something in my civics class from high school about checks and balances. Apparently, President Bush, once again believes that aren't any checks and balances and it's either his/the Secretary of the Treasury's way or the high way. Now, I know this doesn't mean that the Secretary can go and just do what he wants with our taxpayer dollars, but it seems pretty close to that.

Everything I have heard and read indicate that our financial stability is under a huge crisis - no argument there. I am sure Secretary Paulson is a very creditable person - for god sakes he is the Secretary of the Treasury - but to give him carte blanche to do what ever he wants?! That to me seems a little nerve wrecking. While I know the job isn't political, well maybe slightly, is this really such a good idea? To not have any knowledge of what the Secretary is doing? If it all goes horribly wrong, then what happens? We won't know what decisions have been made and what the basis for particular actions where, because what goes on in the Secretary's office, stays in the Secretary's office. I just hope he isn't using a dart board.

The two year toy black hole

Since we've been home, I've been looking closely at realpolitik toddler's (RT) toys. Some of the toys in and around his toy basket, he has had since he was 6 months old while the others have just been accumulated since that time. Yesterday, as part of my fall clean up, I decided that I would pull all of his toys out and begin to separate things that he still plays with vs things that he has showed no interest in or is too old for now. Of course as soon as I began the process RT woke up from his nap, and pulled Every.Single. Toy out! This did not help with my organization and make me more confused on what to actually pack away and what we should keep out a little while longer. But that isn't the reason for this post - well kind of.

Because I feel the need to infuse some new toys into RT's repertoire. A. To keep him entertained and B. to have new toys for the kids in his playgroup to play with when they come over. I decided I would take a gander at the local toy store to see what new and exciting toys are out there for a 2 year old. 2 words. Not Much. I sense that two year olds are kind of in that stage where they are too old for some toys and too young for others. I try to adhere to the labels that give you an indication of age appropriateness of games/toys, but I am having a hard time finding something in the 2 year old age. Hence I feel like I have entered the toy black hole. While I so want to purchase new toys for RT to play with and entertain himself while also making sure that the game/toy I do purchase will actually go to good use.

It's just a big dilemma at this age I am torn! Not to mention what happens come December?!?!

Mr Uncomfortable

I just finished watching Palin's speech at the RNC and here comes John McCain from behind the virtual curtain. Could the man look any more uncomfortable?!?! Is it just me or does it look like his head has been placed upon a box dressed up in a suit.

example #1

example #2

Ok, ok I know he spent 5 years in a Vietnamese prison where who knows what happened to him, but seriously. He has handlers and obviously speech writers, can someone give him some tips to loosen up?!

Time to get back to work.

After 7 weeks on vacation and then another 2 weeks getting myself and realpolitik baby back on our regular time schedule, it's time to begin blogging again.

As you know, I've been out of touch for most of my vacation so I am working on it. 

Things you can look forward to now that I am back and ready to go - in no particular order.

1. Palin - McCain

2. My friend Joe

3. Travel

4.  Something dumb I heard the other day

5.  "Nanny" parks

6.  PUMA's

I know for sure there is more out there that I will discuss and blog about, but that is a little taste of things to come.

Realvacation Mama

It’s pretty much official that I am on vacation. I still have some of the responsibilities of maintaining a house, like I do at home but it’s hard to complain with the pretty relaxed schedule that I’ve fallen into. Here is a pretty typical day. I've attempted many times to upload with some pictures for additional visualization. (If I had normal internet access I would blog in real time, but you don’t want to get me started on that again)

A normal day begins at 8:30 when I wake from my slumber with realvacation toddler usually asking for his mother and/or grandmother. Straight away to the kitchen for my first cup of coffee and a glass of milk for my son where we then proceed to the balcony (it’s too hot to sit inside) to sit tableside for coffee, milk and maybe even a cookie or two. There is banter back and forth between us (my mom, son, and myself) and our next door neighbors that happen to be my aunt, uncle, cousin, her husband and their 2 kids about what food shopping needs to happen and then off for the 2nd cup of coffee. Our view from the balcony doesn’t suck. Straight ahead are several big mountains, and just to the right a block & ½ away is the beach, which we can see from the balcony, the view also brings about banter about the conditions at the beach.

Around 9:30 or so, off to the markets and bakery for fresh fruits, veggies, and bread for the day – about another ½ block from the house.

Between 10:30-11:00 we + a large beach bag full of stuff and umbrella leave for the beach. Toddler gets in some time in the water, but would much rather spend his time filling his buckets with water then bringing them up to where we sit and playing with several other children at the beach. He is the youngest so sometimes he becomes the water fetcher, but he doesn’t mind. I have yet to count but he probably goes down to the water at least 30-40 times.

1:00pm back home for a quick shower and lunch, from what we’ve purchased at the markets.

2-5ish We all nap. Realvacation toddler a little longer than others – I know I am going to hear it from my OMF’s, but yes I let my son sleep over 3 hours. After we wake up, there is usually another cup of coffee.

6:00pm We head back to the beach or go for a nice walk down into town where there is a park for son to play.

7:30pm Back home for yet another shower (if we go to the beach), a light dinner for son (usually left overs + fruit). Son plays a little while longer, my mother and I argue about what time he needs to go to bed and then 9:00 toddler in bed, sometimes even later. (You wouldn’t believe how late these children go to bed here!)

Between then and when it’s time for bed usually consists of reading the paper, a book- I am on my 4th – and just general chit chat about whatever.


So, you tell me……is that a vacation? I’ve done this almost every year of my life and since I can remember, usually about 3 weeks in, I don’t ever want to come home………

Withdrawl!

Like any addiction, when you decide to give something up either voluntarily or involuntarily, there is withdraw. I myself am going through withdraw of my own – involuntarily of course. My 4-6 hour a day internet fix has been taken away from me and I am left shaking, sleepless, with headaches and frankly with a lot of time on my hands. All except one of these symptoms you like to have while you are on vacation.

I should explain. Here in the land where democracy, philosophy, the Olympics and everything else I hold dear to me originated (Including realpolitick toddler), except maybe celebrity gossip. Things are not the same; water, electricity and even the internet are sometimes hard to come by, in my case I have water and electricity but a phone for internet access is very difficult to find. Realpolitik husband and I have been looking for alternatives to our non-internet access issue for the past 2 years without much to show for it. Realpolitik husband is under the impression that somewhere, somehow, someone would be broadcasting a wireless connection that we could just happen to jump on every once in a while. Not a chance. Then we thought for sure we had solved the problem by going to our local AT&T store and purchasing the newly advertised air cards. You know the ones with Bill Curtis in the middle of an island “finding” the internet. Don’t believe the hype people; the small print says that if you are out of the AT&T broadcasting area you are paying roaming charges, which can add up pretty fast. So while Bill Curtis has found the internet on his little island, poor Bill will use the money he was paid to do the ad to pay for his roaming charges. So, realpolitik husband and I were on our last option. The home/apartment we have here, which is about 45 min away from a big city, has several phone jacks placed around the house. Perfect, we will call the phone company get a phone line/number and we will be up and running. It maybe dialup but at least it’s something. FAT CHANCE. I go to the phone company (OTE) they take my info, and say they will be out in a few days to connect the line, give us a number and we are off to surf not only the waves a block from the house but also the internet. Dude calls me 3 times, to make sure where I live, what I want exactly, etc. He finally makes an appearance, goes into the basement of the building and proceeds to tell me that the electrician/developer had not finished the job of pulling the phone wires into the building, so while I have phone jacks in my house taunting me with the possibility of a dial tone, until the electrician finishes the job (which by the way this building is 4 years old) I cannot have a phone line installed. Ok, who does that?! So now on to find the electrician to do the job and start this process all over again.

I know this explanation is probably more than you all care to know, but remember what I said at the beginning, I’ve got a lot of time on my hands.

Hence the shaking, irritability, sleeplessness and headaches.
Things can only get better…….

Bitter Unity?

Ok, so while on vacation I've given myself 15 minutes of surfing. After going to a few of my favorite blogs, I moved on to the news of the day (I have my priorities you know). Well I am not sure exactly what day yet, since an 8 hour time difference makes my days and nights all disconbobulated at the moment, but I digress.

My local paper not giving me all the information I was looking for - except to see that my beloved Chicago Cubs are winning on the road, I purused the New York Times, and came across an article of how the Obama and Clinton campaigns are trying to work together to bring unity to the party. So let's discuss blow by blow.

1. Harden Hillary supporters are still up in arms over Obama clinching the nomination and will not support Obama. my response.....get over yourselves! What are the reasons? Is it policy or experienced based? Or is it that you just don't like him. We, as democrats, need as much support and unity as we can get if we want to win in November. Let's all remember the end result.

2. This "symbolic" gesture of Obama writing a check to the Clinton campaign to help her out with her $+12 million debt. Seriously?! Like this woman and her husband don't have enough money to pay off their own debt. Didn't they start a website to ask people for money to help them with their Whitewater legal bills? Why not do the same now? Quick question, would she write him a check, symbolicly showing that she is behind him?

3. Obama hiring Clinton's people for his own campaign. One gripe Clinton supporters have is that " Mr. Obama’s campaign had made only a perfunctory effort to hire Clinton staff members; the Clinton campaign payroll is ending for most employees in less than a week." Don't we all know that when we work for a campaign that there is a 50/50 chance that you'll be out of a job? Isn't this the chance to take when working for a campaign. Surely they can't be claiming they are poor.

4. I am going to end with this, because I could go on and on and on about this article but this one struck me as a little off. "They are discussing whether Mr. Obama’s campaign will provide a plane and staff for Mrs. Clinton as she travels on his behalf." Does this sound like she wants to be paid off for endorcing Obama. To me it sounds as though she is thinking "well, if he wants me to go away and support him, then he is going to have to pay me for it" Who talks like that?! Do any other people who endorse a candidate get their own plane and staff? Hitch a ride with Obama?! I am sure the DNC has some money to help her out, but maybe it's beneath her to not only endorse the soon to be Democratic nominee, but also any other democrat that might be in that particular state, district, etc.

Obviously I have my own unity issues with Hillary Clinton and her supporters. Hey, if they want to have their own party- go ahead. They seem to know what's better anyway. But come November when we are still going to be stuck in this war, our gas is going to cost $6 a gallon and we aren't any better off, you'll see a "don't blame me my mam voted for Obama" bumpersticker on realpolitik toddler's Sit and Stroll.

Travel anxiety

Tomorrow, realpolitik son and I leave for a 7 week vacation. (maybe I'll rename my blog realvacation mama for a few weeks) So the past 10 days I've begun to organizing myself to pack. My bedroom has become a large staging area for all of the things I need to take along. Surprisingly being gone for 7 weeks, I don't need to pack a lot in terms of clothes, but there are other things that I need to take a long and that is what is taking up a lot of room in my suitcase. So we are on the last 24 hours of being in the windy city and feel like I am not ready. I've made this trip numerous times in my life, so I know exactly where I am going and what I will find there, so I am not sure why I am having so much anxiety of this trip, specifically.

Hopefully this will all pass, because after 2pm tomorrow afternoon, there won't be much I can do about the situation.

BTW, for those who are wondering - all 2 of you that read this blog. I am planning on bringing the laptop. Internet access will be limited where I am, but I do hope to hop on the speedy Internet a few times to blog, and give you updates on what I have an opinion on. One thing though.....someone is going to have to keep my in the loop with some of the political stuff because just like the Internet my access to US papers, magazines, etc will be limited. Ahhh of all times to go out of the country and miss all the excitement. So email me and let me know!

FREE PRODUCT!

I forwarded an email to one of my mom friends last week about super cute hair clippy's for her daughter. I have to live vicariously through someone with a girl, realpolitik son hates wearing a hat, let a lone cute clippy's. So we talked about it later and she asked "How do you find all this stuff?" I had to explain that I am a product junkie. Product primarily means skin care stuff, but it has expanded to include cute baby gear, clothing, bags, and almost anything I can get my hands on.

I do indulge every once in a while and purchase cute diaper bags, stationary, and other small things, but I do have to limit myself, and I am proud to so, do a good job at it. Everything else I find, I keep an eye on or file in my favorites to look at later when it comes to gifts. But not anymore! This afternoon, a friend of mine, pointed me in the direction of PRIZEY! OMG, I am in LOVE!!! More product to look at and now, not only new places to find things to purchase, but also get for free. Free, I said! How fantastic! Now, I am not going to be one of those people who is going to sign up for every contest, but don't be surprised if it has anything to do with skin care, clothing, travel accessories, etc. I am so there! While I wish I could keep this site all to myself, I had to share with others. Consider this my community service for the week.

My Sundays

Much to my mother and probably priest's chagrin, a majority of my Sundays for the past several of years has not included church but rather a big cup of coffee, the Chicago Tribune, and for one hour Meet the Press. As I am sure you know by now, I love the show and it's host Tim Russert. So today when I flipped on the television, I took the news of Tim Russert's death pretty hard. Partly because I think I secretly would have liked to be Tim Russert, in terms of being a journalist asking great questions about politics to politicians, but also because he wasn't only a journalist, and political junkie but a good son, father, sports enthusiast and all around nice man. When I worked in D.C. I happened to be in an elevator with him once, and while we just exchanged "hello's", I could sense that he was a genuinely nice man.

I am not sure what my Sundays will be like now, the coffee and the Trib will always be there, it's Tim Russert on Meet the Press that I will miss the most. I am sure Father George will probably see a little more of me on Sundays, but when Sunday afternoon rolls around and I want something to talk about with friends I won't have Mr. Russert's good hard hitting questions to quote to help make my point.

He is so B.U.S.T.E.D.

I am not sure if where you live there is as much news coverage of the R. Kelly trial, but here in the land of not so big news, it has been mentioned in every television, newspaper and radio for the past couple of weeks. About a week or so ago, news broke that Chicago Sun-Times music critic ,Jim DeRogatis, had to testify. Now if you are like the majority of people I know, you have no clue why Jim DeRogatis would be called to testify in the child pornography case, let me tell you some back story.

Allegedly, Jim DeRogatis, music critic for the Chicago Sun-Times, was given this tape by someone, held on to it for a period of time, THEN proceeded to give it to police. There is a questionable gap of time between when Mr. DeRogatis received the tape and when he turned it over to police. So defense attorneys want to know how long he had the tape, who else has seen the tape and if he duplicated the tape. Mr. DeRogatis and the Sun Times made a big stink about being subpoenaed, and after filing some appeals he took the stand but pleaded the 5th amendment when he was placed on the stand.

So, here is why I think Mr. DeRogatis is so BUSTED. Having knowledge of and actually possessing child pornography is a crime. No sh*t he isn't testifying. I am not sure if anyone else has thought of this, but who is to say Mr. DeRogatis doesn't possess other such tapes, photos, etc. Hey Sun Times, care to check your employee's computer? Not being an attorney, I am not too sure of all the in's and out's, but I don't believe that this would fall under the first amendment; but doesn't pleading the 5th for fear of self incrimination put up some red flags that there is something else there?


OK, full disclosure. I am not a big fan of Jim DeRogatis as a music critic, so maybe I just see this as my way the little weasel gets some payback.

Jumping the Wall

Firewall that is. After a full week of not being able to access any webpages that need passwords - including my blog account, I've jumped the wall and now everything is back to normal!
I have a whole list of issues to discuss with you all, including R. Kelly, Hillary Clinton, and children's haircuts, but it will have to wait at least until nap time. Until then!

And now, the end is near......

First off let me just say, you would think that with a 4 day vacation from husband and baby I would be all over my blog. I chose to spend my time on the phone to husband making sure baby hadn't broken a limb, and was eating and sleeping ok, also cleaning the house, and yes having a little "me" time which included hanging out with one of the best-est of best people, having some dinner, going for massages, mani pedi's., etc All something that I hadn't done in a long time and I was glad to have a partner in crime to share some "me" time with.

But now both baby and husband are back and it's back to "normal" around the realpolitik house for at least another month before I and baby leave for a 7 week vacation. Can you really call it a vacation if you are just moving location but still have all the responsibilities of being a mother and taking care of a house?

This is not the true reason for this blog. News has broken that it looks like only half the delegates from Michigan and Florida will be seated at the Democratic Convention come August, but that the Clinton campaign may be able to contest this decision the first day of the Convention. Now this isn't a done deal yet, Rules and By-laws Committee doesn't meet until Saturday, but this is a likely scenario. I had this discussion with some other women/moms earlier last week, but nothing was really resolved or discussed about what will happen or their feelings about Hillary. I of course, was the first to say, Ms. Clinton needs to hit the bricks and everyone needs to find a way to unite the Democratic party to see the Dems win come November. I think that maybe a better question to ask is how do the Michigan and Florida delegations feel about not being seated at the Convention. Each state's Democratic Committee, knew what the consequences were for pushing up their primaries, so why the complaining. I know I've said this before.

Lastly, Former White House press secretary Scott McClellan's book. I am taking a small poll. Interested in reading it? Don't care? What's that all about?!

Anyone read the NY Times today?

After realpolitik baby went to bed, rather than clean up all the toys off my living room floor, I decided to do a little Google News browsing. What to my surprise do I see? "Clinton Invokes 2000 Recount". Did it really take this long for the Clinton campaign to decide this. For as much as the Clintons and the Gores didn't get a long, did Hillary really not pay attention to the debacle of 2000? The war of words and the clinging on till the bitter end just continues to give the Democrats a bad name. John McCain was spot on during the Weekend Update on SNL,
,
let the Democrats continue to fight it out. As he just sits back works his campaign and watches the possible implosion of the Democratic party. We have another week, but I hope that after the May 31st Rules and By-Laws Committee, whatever the outcome is, doesn't continue to drag this out any further, otherwise I am going to have serious reservations, dare I say it, if the Dems can pull it off in November.

Didn't we learn our lesson the first time?

The subject brings two subjects to light. The first political and the second mom-ical.

1. In the past and specifically over the weekend, the Clinton campaign continues to bring up the fact that she has won the "popular vote", meaning that more people have voted for her than for Obama over the primary season, but he has more the the delegates. So, again I ask. Didn't we, the democratic party, learn our lesson 8 years ago? This is the same argument that the Gore campaign used in 2000, but it didn't change the outcome of the election. Why would it change the outcome of this primary?

2. The past couple of days I have caught realpolitik baby hanging off the side of his crib ready to take the plunge to freedom and the beyond. Today it happened. I was brushing my teeth and all of a sudden I heard a thump, and then cries. I rush to find my son on the floor, no bones broken but just a little freaked out. After a few minutes of consoling and explaining that hanging off the highest point of the crib wasn't such a good idea, he went back into the crib with a book and a little Micheal Jackson music for 5 more minutes. Well, as the title of this blog goes......didn't we learn our lesson the first time? Yet again on the floor, but this time a little less shocked. I knew this day would come.

Portrait of a Wanna Be President

After Tuesday's primaries, there has been much talk about Hillary Clinton and if it is mathematically possible for her to become the nominee for the Democratic Party. Senator Clinton has been very adamant that "it ain't over until it's over" and she is going to see this through to the end. I admire Senator Clinton and her determination, but why don't we look past the primaries and general election into the future when Senator Clinton is President. I think we look at the Senator's performance and attitudes during the election to get a good portrait of how she will be as the Commander in Chief.

What makes me nervous about this portrait is what I've seen so far from Hillary. I don’t believe she has painted a very good picture of herself and how she, as President, would bring this country together after 8 years of division. A big criticism of the current administration is that they do what they want and then ask questions later. I don't see this being any different in Hillary. The attitude of what will happen with the delegates from Michigan and Florida and the Clinton campaign crying “foul” after an agreement had been settled that those delegates wouldn’t count, gives a good snapshot of what may happen. She is very strong minded, which is needed to be President, but is also not willing to budge on issues or arguments – prime example, not exiting the race. While Clinton One (that would be Bill) I thought was very good to broker agreements and work with many to accomplish legislation and policy, I don't see that same characteristic in Hillary. Of course the same charisma of Clinton One is not there, and maybe that is where it all starts for me.

Come on people, it's the Mouse!

I love magazines. I just do. Realpolitik husband mocks my reading and subscription of magazines, but I just like them. The two that I probably couldn't live without are Vanity Fair and People magazine. Ok, huge spectrum on the scale of magazine reading but I've got People to keep me in the loop with the latest celebrity gossip and Vanity Fair for the extra long articles on everything and anything. So, this week when many of my new SAHM friends are wondering who Miley Ray Cyrus is, and what is the big deal over these Vanity Fair pictures, I've got the inside track.

Here is my take on this whole situation. From everything that I've read and seen, it appears to me that The Mouse, aka Disney, was very unhappy with what photos Vanity Fair chose to place in their magazine and turned the screws on Miley to put out this statement after initially she had stated that the photos were natural and very artsy. Why all of a sudden the change of heart Miley? Seems like the Mouse is very unhappy with your photos, which don't conform to the squeaky clean image that you and the rest of the Disney employees are supposed to exude both personally and professionally - except for Jamie Lynn Spears.

So first there is the controversy over these pictures and what exactly Miley thinks about the pictures. Then there now is the controversy over what parents of Miley fans think of these pictures. First off, these people need to get a grip! Vanity Fair is an adult magazine! AN ADULT magazine, not Playboy, Hustler adult, but a over-18-years-old-to-understand-it magazine. What pre-teen girl will be going out and purchasing Vanity Fair? If you don't like the pictures and what you think your child assume from those pictures then don't buy the magazine or if you have a subscription keep it out of the hands of your daughter. If you are so concerned, then have a conversation with your kid, BE A PARENT! We all know what kind of pictures Annie Leibovitz takes, remember a naked, pregnant Demi Moore and the controversy over those photos. I think there are 15 year old models that have taken similar pictures but haven't gotten as much flack. I am chalking this all up to the Mouse.

The Best Poll of the Campaign - so far

Yet again I've been out of commission the past week or so due to some family obligations, but I am hoping that after Sunday - Orthodox Easter- I'll have a little more time on my hands to get back to the 2 a week blogging. But in the meantime, this morning I came across the best and maybe what I thought was the craziest polls so far.

Tomorrow is the big Pennsylvania Democratic primary. This is it people, this should (hopefully) tell who the heir apparent will be! So with all this attention on Pennsylvania and deciphering who will win the primary before people in the state go to their polling places, MSNBC/McClatchy/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has done a recent poll to see exactly which way the tide is turning. This poll is a lot like the rest, but what gave me a really good laugh this morning were some of the specific demographics that were polled, specifically Hunters. Gun Owners, Beer drinkers and Bowlers. I am still a little baffled if I am more amused by the the stereotyping of Pennsylvania voters or is it just that I am amused that we've come to this. I guess if the candidates show up at any place, there will now be a poll on that! How about waffle eaters? Pittsburgh Pirate or Steeler fans? I'll admit it was 6am when I flipped on the news and heard about this poll while not firing on all my caffeinated cylinders. But this did give me a good laugh, while the rest of me was not happy to be up so early.

My name? Oakley, Annie Oakley

A very good friend of mine and I went to a baseball game last night, and in between a few beers, hot dogs and getting, hmmm let's say berated by a gentleman in front of us, we discussed everything under the sun. But that is what you do at games, watch a few home runs, talk, eat, etc.

So in our discussions we got on the topic of Hillary Clinton's newest comments and one of the biggest burns ever given during a Presidential campaign. Take it from a girl who once won the Annie Oakley award at YMCA camp in the summer of 1985; I don't claim to be pro gun, especially with all that has happened in my fine city the past several weeks, but here is another example of the Clinton campaign's "bringing it to streets" attitude. Just face it, Hillary isn't as charismatic as her husband and she is not coming off as sincere either. So maybe she does remember the days of her father taking her behind the cottage that her grandfather built to learn to shoot. But I am not sure you want to use the words "cottage". Personally, I think her word selection actually made things worse, and it shows how so not working class Hillary Clinton is. Can the people she is speaking to in Pennsylvania relate to having a cottage? Come on now!

Shame on me!

Ok, ok, I know I've totally slacked the last week or so. I think I was so excited to have Realpolitik husband home for a week straight without having to go away for work that I got all out of sync with my blogging, laundry, baby duties, etc. So let this be my virtual slap on the wrist.

On several occasions, I have started to blog about a particular topic but didn't do so because I wasn't sure how to bring up the issue without adding more flame to a now smoldering fire, but in the past couple of weeks much has been discussed in my personal conversations as well as in the blogosphere about the unconscious discrimination of religion and religious holidays that I need to put in my two cents.

It all started with a discussion with Realpolitik husband regarding one of the groups he tours on the lecture circuit (he is an entertainment agent that tours almost anything around the country). One of the the individuals within this team, has requested that there are not any lectures scheduled on any of the Jewish holidays, as she does not want to discriminate against these individuals by not given them the opportunity to see the lecture. So I asked my husband, "Does that mean that they also don't schedule any lectures between sunup and sundown for the month of Ramadan?" His answer, "No, but she just wants to make sure none of the Jewish participants are discriminated against, since she is Jewish." Ok good point but aren't you discriminating towards other who may want to attend and cannot do so because of their religious holidays?

Then through the month of March there was some serious uproar over several companies inviting mommy bloggers to attend their events that fell over Passover. I have to agree with these moms who were appalled by the fact that these companies/PR people didn't look at a calendar to realize that maybe it wasn't a good time to schedule an event and expect good attendance. I know that those companies apologized up and down and from what I have read everyone was happy with the apology. I just hope that other religions and holidays get the same consideration.

Maybe I am a little sensitive this days as Eastern Orthodox Easter is not for another 3 weeks, (and I am craving a patty melt) but people still ask me how my Easter was and have tried schedule things during my Easter weekend. (oh, it's not a one day only experience for us Orthodox- try at the minimum three days!) While in this case Eastern Orthodox, specifically Greek Orthodox, make up only 1.5 million people in the United States and pales in comparison to the population of other religions, I just hope the same consideration is given to everyone.

I want that job!

A few of my mom friends were over today and the topic turned to the politics and the other taboo topics, religion and sex. As we discussed the election and how things have begun to get personal rather than sticking with the issues, a brief flash of election stratagy theory came to my brain. I am not sure why it took me this long to realize, but there is some poor intern or very low level staffer on each campaign whose only job it is is to review the names of those associated with each candidate, particularly donors, and do a Google search to see what good, bad, and ugly comes up. How else would all this video of the Rev. Wright come to light, and only 24 hours later an photo of the same honorable Reverand photographed with President Clinton during a prayer breakfast.

Maybe I am a little envious that there is someone working for a campaign whose only job it is to do web searches all day, and if they do find something juicy that might land them a real White House job if said candidate is elected.

Like I said, I want that job!

Struggling to go Green

This Saturday between 8pm -9pm CST, the City of Chicago will participate in Earth Hour. During that period of time, many of the buildings in our city will either turn off or dim their lights to help bring awareness to climate change. After hearing about this today, or course on NPR, it made me contemplate my own methods of being green, and how, at times, it can be difficult to be a SAHM while also being more conscience about the environment.

There are many things that I already do to do my part to slow down the effects of global warming and hopefully do something good for the environment;, including the 3 r's, reuse, renew and recycle, purchasing locally grown organic foods as well as place compact florescent bulbs in as many of our light fixtures as possible. Those things I find easy and should be no brainers when it comes to doing something for the environment. What I struggle with are some of the other things that I could do to bring down my carbon footprint. For example:

1. Usage of electricity. We live in a day and age that almost everything runs on electricity and as a SAHM, I have realized that there is always some sort of electrical appliance, light, etc on in the house. My parents believed that if you were not in a particular room, the lights should be off in that room. This was because of the cost of electricity, but I see the point when it comes to emissions too. But if you are home, how do you make sure you are not using at least one piece of electrical equipment? Remember, it's still bitterly cold outside so leaving the house is sometimes not an option.

2. Traveling by car or by plane. Let's face it. I would much rather fly to my in-laws in Texas rather than be in the car with husband and child for over 20 hours driving down to visit. Also, I have family that live in Greece. I don't have much of a choice when it comes to visiting them, my only option is to fly. What I guess I have the most difficulty with is driving. If it isn't to the store, it's to a play date, or to grandma's house. I do my share of walking or taking public transportation to the post office, for coffee, meeting a friend, but I know I do more driving than need be.

3. Waste. As I mentioned, I do my share of recycling, but I've never known anyone who generates as much garbage as my family. Maybe I just feel that I take the garbage out way more than anyone else in my condo building. The majority of my trips to the garbage are worth of recyclables, or dirty diapers, but there is just so much more that, again I think I can do. What's the rule about having a garbage compost in a common area of a condo building? (ooh I can only imagine the nasty-grams I would get from my neighbor)

I guess my point is that if maybe we all work together and do our parts in some way shape or form, that we could possibly cancel out our impact on the environment, and while an hour of dimming our lights is a good idea and a start, just stop and think about exactly what you do each day and the impact it has on the environment.

You've got to be kidding me!?!

It's the second day of spring and I am wearing, a coat, hat, boots, and as of 20 minutes ago, gloves. Why you ask am I wearing such apparel? Because it is snowing, yes Snowing! But this is what has me specifically bothered this afternoon.

Loving realpolitik husband bought me a pair of fingerless gloves from Banana Republic for Christmas. I have a tendency not to wear gloves in the winter because I am always too warm with them on, or I am never able to handle things very well when I do have gloves on. So fingerless gloves are the best thing for me, they keep my hands protected from the elements while also allowing me the flexibility to handle groceries, keys, etc without any problem. I have worn said gloves since Christmas, not everyday, but the majority of the days for the past three months, until 20 minutes ago. To much to my chagrin, my gloves have started to disintegrate. (See Exhibit A)

I've been asking myself all morning, what is worse, having my beloved Banana Republic gloves be unusable, or the fact that it is March and I am still wearing gloves!!!!

Should I stay or should I go?

I spend a lot of time in my car, either driving back and forth from a grandmother's house who has been more than accommodating and willing to watch realpolitik baby for a day or two, or just with basic errands. Since I purchased my car almost 18 months ago, I have logged a lot of miles as well as hours listening to one of my new vices, satellite radio.

When I am not listening to the pop, rock, or all Micheal Jackson all the time stations, I listen to NPR. It wasn't until recently that I have logged more NPR listening hours than before. Some of it is because I no longer have the time to read the paper (excluding Sunday's crossword puzzle), and also because I am looking to get "the rest of the story" which either I cannot find or don't have the time to seek out. That being said, I have found myself in a new dilemma. What to do when you've made it to your destination, but the interesting story you are listening to has yet to end; do you stay in the car, or do you just turn the car off and go about your day?

Any suggestions?

The long of the short lists

I got a call from a friend of mine this afternoon and wanted to have a conversation about possible VP's. I was flattered someone thought of calling me and asking me for an opinion on what each ticket will look like, but then also horrified that I didn't have a more thoughtful answer of the possibilities. I am going to blame John McCain's Jedi mind tricks, which insured me that these are not the VP candidates I am looking for.

So while I am still in a bit of a VP daze at the moment, I decided to do some research and see what others have to say. I haven't heard or read anything yet that I totally agree with or believe that they have found the holy grail of vice presidential candidates; but here are some interesting thoughts:

Will Durst's suggestions are well thought out, especially his idea of countering the minority card, by listing several Republican party minority candidates. Personally, I wouldn't list George Clooney as "taking the woman thing out of play" maybe the hunk thing out of play- which wouldn't hurt McCain's chances.

On a more serious note, from a cohort blogher, this list is a little more concise and thoughtful. I like the safe bet of the young Republican governor from the Midwest, Tim Pawlenty. This would be the safe candidate that really wouldn't add too much drama for the Republicans, they have enough of that right now with Spitzer.

Lastly, a news article out of Reuters, focuses on McCain's age and like the above blog does pick some of the young Repub governors as possible running mates. Again, very thought provoking and does give some background on who is in and who is "ouft".

After reviewing these list and pontificating, Here is what I think. Taking into consideration this could all change dependent on what happens with the Dems in terms of Florida and Michigan and who the final nominee will be. But using today's knowledge, without looking into my crystal ball, here is my very short list.

1. Florida Gov. Charlie Crist. A young Republican Governor that will do a very good job bringing out the vote in Florida, which may become a huge battleground state again. If the Democrats totally piss off the Democratic and Independent voters in that state, it will be an easier victory for the Republicans in Florida, since a lot of them probably won't show up in the general election. People are sick of election drama in Florida.

2. MN Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Like Governor Crist, with a lot to offer McCain in terms of delivering an important state to the red category.

3. Kay Bailey Hutchison: She has a reputation for not being particularly conservative on life and immigration issues, but she is more accomplished than Hillary (if she is the nominee) and could help McCain reach out to the women's vote.

The dark horse? Joe Lieberman. You can't have a discussion about VP's without adding Joe to the list. His age is bothersome, and while McCain is having problems winning many conservatives over, this wouldn't be a wise choice. But if you are looking for experience, and someone who would do a good job of wiping away any sort of Democratic momentum, Joe is the guy.

So there you go. To my friend and her aunt who called this morning to discuss, I am sorry for my delay in my response, I hope this helps. To those of you out there, who are wondering about my pontificating and if possibly I've drank the red Kool-Aid, there is nothing to worry about. When one of realpolitik baby's first 25 words is "O-bama" I don't think there is much to worry about. Not to mention, I would much rather think about the strategy Democrats can use against the Republican ticket, than listen to any more discussion about the Florida and Michigan primaries.

My mom is better than your mom

Another reason why I try to keep specifics about baby out of this blog...... I still have hang ups about my playground taunts.

15 Minutes

Being a SAHM I've come to realize that unless there is a plan of some sort for the day, it can go by very s-l-o-w-l-y.

That is why on those days where there isn't anything to look forward to, like a trip to the grocery store (sad isn't it), playgroups, classes, etc, my day usually breaks down into 15 to 30 minute increments. This is because there is the planning process of "15 minutes before baby needs to eat, nap or sleep" and then an implementation process of "OK, 30 minutes for baby to eat, play, or read". It's not that I have baby on such a regimented schedule that I only give baby 15-30 minutes for a particular activity, but rather that is usually as long as baby's attention span.

To tell you the truth, this is helpful, very helpful. While I am sure many out there might think that my OCD has kicked into high gear, you try not having a plan with a 21 month old who is constantly wanting to play with the snow shovel in the house, if you don't keep hims busy. Then tack on a few days of baby being sick and not being able to leave the house. THEN, there is a whole new level of time management!

A Democratic Shell Game

All the news stations are a buzz with Hillary's newest comments about possibly having Obama as her running mate. Ahhhh, the "dream" ticket. Or is it?


No one has said this, but is there anyone out there who sees this as a ploy to get those who might be on the fence but are leaning towards Obama, to switch their vote to Hillary? If people believe that all Obama needs is just a little more experience,then being the VP would the the best opportunity to do so.. You know, experience in answering that controversial 3am phone call. Again, I think another ploy to win some votes that may change the delegate count, but yet in the end get that "dream" ticket. As a friend of mine said to me this morning, empty promises.

Allergy Rant

Realpolitik baby has an egg allergy. I know I am not the only mother dealing with allergies, and I knock on wood that it isn't anything worse like gluten or anything like that, but please allow me a few moments to vent about the difficulties of an egg allergy. Specifically breakfast.

Realpolitik husband and I enjoy breakfast and on occasion enjoy going to a restaurant to partake in breakfast. For the past 22 months, this has included bringing baby with us. So, this is where I being to get frustrated. Here are my top 5 frustrations with food allergies and restaurants.

1. Unless you only want to feed your child french fries, grilled cheese and macaroni and cheese each and every time, there are very little eggless options on the children's menu.

2. Not only do you have to be careful what you choose for your child, but you also need to be conscience of what you order, because 9 times out of 10, your child will want what you are having.

3. Decoding a menu to figure out what ingredients are used usually takes up the first 10 minutes of your dining experience. This usually includes several questions to the server who doesn't have a clue.

4. A simple yogurt, that is all I would like, a simple yogurt. And I don't want to pay more than $4.00 for it!

5. The constant fear that there will be a hint of egg, peanut, etc in something my child has eaten which might entail digging through the diaper bag looking for the benadryl, or better yet a mad rush out of the restaurant leaving a table full of food untouched to insure child lives through an allergy attack without whipping out the EpiPen.

Going out to eat is supposed to an enjoyable experience, while I don't begrudge my child, or my husband and I for our genes that may have contributed to the allergy, I wouldn't say going to eat is as relaxing as it was or should be.

Trip tips

Last Saturday we made an unexpected trip to Texas for 5 days. After all my complaining about being stuck in the cold and dying to get away for a few days, it was a nice to be in "warm" weather. This is the second unplanned trip to Texas in the past 18 months and I have to say I have learned a lot about traveling with realpolitik husband and baby since that time.

1. Always plan and expect the worse of your child. Usually this will result in being pleasantly surprised by the way your child behaves on the trip.

2. Always check the boarding time of your flight. Don't get caught thinking you've got plenty of time to sit and relax at the Admiral's Club. This usually results in missing your flight and waiting another 3 hours for the next one.

3. While celebrity sightings at the airport are always a plus, don't think that because they are at the airport and you are at the airport that you can strike up a conversation with them about how cute your perspective children are.

4. While planning your flights around naps is always a good plan, don't think that your child will actually sleep.

Celeb Rant

The argument of celebrities and celebrity gossip is a two headed monster. I am not even going to address the why do we care and if we don't buy the magazines that then there wouldn't be a market for this stuff. Honestly, a celebrity magazine, particularly People, is my guilty pleasure.

The rant is on the price tag for the first pictures of celebrity babies. I guess not yet celebrities yet, but then again aren't you a product of your parents. Anyway, I digress. So here are all these celebrities lately having children and selling their baby's pictures to magazines. Christina just did it, it is rumored that JLo and Mark are in talks, and then there is the Cruise baby that made serious news by finally being photographed for public consumption. While I am a member of Team Aniston (us Greek girls need to stick together), I think the Jolie Pitt team did it right by donating the money that was given to them for the first pictures of Shilo to charity. I am sure that there are other celebrities that have done the same, but have maybe not made it public.

Come on now, these celebrities have gobs of money, why are they not doing something better with the funds that they do get from selling their first born (baby pictures) to the media. How come we haven't heard of Nicole Richie, or anyone else for that matter of donating money from their celeb baby photo shoots to an organization that helps single moms or for that matter a handful of single moms that were possibly in the hospital at the same time when they delivered. I know I haven't totally thought this out, but seriously, there are children and parents that are more deserving of a large sum of money.

Red Slip? Baby

Well, sort of. After starting the coffeemaker and giving politk baby his milk and graham cracker, I flipped on the news, primarily to see if the weather would be bearable to go outside, but also to see how Wisconsin was gearing up today. And there in front of me, for all to see was the announcement that Fidel Castro was officially stepping down. Wow! Wowwy, Wow, Wow.

To say that I was surprised is a bit of an understatement. I have always found Cuba, Castro and the Cuban embargo very interesting, in fact my Master's thesis was a comparison of Reagan, Bush I and the Clinton administration's policies against Cuba and their implantation or lack there of the Cuban embargo. Through the process, I was able to meet with several people who worked on Cuba specifically in each administration along with many policy analysts to get their take on Cuba, Castro, and the next step for Cuba after Castro. The one thing that surprises me is that Castro is still alive, or at least that is what we are led to believe, and has stepped down. This was something that wasn't even an option for anyone I spoke to during my research. This is a man who has out lasted 10 US Presidents, the fall of the Soviet Union, many many assassination attempts, and his illness for the past year. Everyone, even myself, thought the end of Castro as Commandant of Cuba would end with his death, but should anything that Castro does surprise you.

Now, let’s see what Raul can do, as the official “heir” to Cuba and how he will continue the Castro reign in Cuba. My wager is, until his brother dies he will stay with the status quo, then all bets are off!

A Day Alone

With President's day on Monday, what do you do on a day off? For me, Realpolitik husband is out of town and bambino politik went to grandma's overnight. So, for the first time in a very long time I had the house to myself. Free, free, free.

So, the whole day to myself. What to do? I could be productive, do some laundry, clean the house, run some errands without the baby. Make an appointment for a massage or manicure pedicure. No. I chose to do nothing. Absolutely nothing. I ventured out of my house to retrieve my newspaper from my front door, and then proceeded to sit on my couch and ride the wave of TV viewing. From Meet the Press, to Wild n' out to Dexter, I ran the gambit of television shows, good and bad. And I loved every minute of it. Seriously. I never get this opportunity and I took full advantage.

In retrospect maybe a little waste of time and maybe not exactly what was thought about when President's Day was established. But who cares! Now shhhh, it's time for a little 8-10 hour Savasana.