The sky is falling!

No, this is not in reference to any meteors or asteroids heading towards Earth.  There are members of the Federal Government that are claiming that (already hurting) parts of the government will be hit by the required cuts, which are due on Friday.  For example education and healthcare for children.

This bullying, all-or-nothing, stomping feet tactic is juvenile.  Adults not only know WHAT a budget is, they also know how to write and follow one.  If something is over budget in one spot, the funds need to come out of another non-necessary area, such as entertainment.

It's my opinion that the first cuts should be in the paycheck of those who are responsible for not having putting together a budget in over 4 years.  Then start looking at the waste of the government, starting with overlapping departments.  Let's not forget to look at what we "give" to other countries.  Those fighter jets that were sent to Egypt would have been a good example.

As the employer (aka taxpayer) of these people, I challenge them to do what is right, not what is easy (i.e. pointing fingers.)  Do what the rest of the citizens of this great country are forced to do.  Instead of milking us  closer to dry, do with what you already have been given.  Get the budget written, and in place.  Then, like the rest of us, live within your means!

Anti-Valentine's Day

To most men, this is the most dreaded day of the year.  To most women, this is one of the most anticipated days of the year.  Personally, I think it is an over-rated, over-commercialized, biggest piece of bunk there ever was created.
Yes, this is written by a woman.  No, I'm not some scorned and bitter woman who hates all romance.  Quite the contrary; I'm contentedly married to a wonderful man. So why am I anti-Valentine's Day?  The short answer is: "If you can't say/do it the rest of the year, don't bother simply because the calendar says to."
When my husband and I were dating, we hardly ever said "I love you" to each other.  There really wasn't or isn't a need to, when actions speak louder than words.   It means more to me when he randomly, and sometimes secretly, refills my Starbucks card.  Why? Because he knows how much of a treat a latte is to me.  Although I can't speak for him, I'm sure there are little things I do that mean the world to him as well.
Why is it people think that a particular date on the calendar is the ONE day to express your love to someone?  Because the media tells you so.  That being said, I encourage you to walk away from the brainwashing.  Don't pay two to three times more for those flowers than you would any other time of year.  Don't buy a box of chocolates, that most of us women will admit we don't need anyway.  However, so as not to hurt your loved one's feelings, simply make a card stating your feelings, but end the card with a "to be continued..."  Just remember to do those little things throughout the year!