The Government Shutdown

I am not a particularly political person. I don't necessarily vote a straight party ticket but I am somewhat conservative.

I expect, however, for those entrusted with law-making powers to do their job. I expect them to read proposed laws before voting on them. I expect them to balance the checkbook (since it's got my money in it) and make wise spending choices. I expect the leader - or the used-to-be-leader - of the free world to not tantrum.

Whatever happened to common sense?

Maybe this government has never had any sense. We've been warned as far back as the third president that power corrupts. And yet, like lemmings, we've followed whoever had the most charisma into the abyss.

This shutdown is impacting people I know. It may well impact my family before the month is out. My mother, my son, and my daughter may not be getting the money they qualify for under Social Security if this thing goes on much longer. My husband is on the Ice this month and may be staying weeks longer to ensure he isn't forcibly furloughed (and unpaid since he only works for a government contractor but not the government).

Elections will be coming up again soon. I think every single elected official at the National level needs to be replaced. If it's an incumbent, let him/her experience permanent furlough.

Travelinsam Has Another Blog

I only have another blog because BlogSpot says I have no other blogs. I had other blogs. A photo blog, a complaint blog, a blog dedicated to talking about the mundane... They can't be found so I created another blog.

I'm not sure what this blog is for. All I know is that I've had a burning desire to add something else to my already full plate and this blog will not require me to cook for a crowd, get in my car and drive somewhere, or take any tests. I'm adding something that requires nothing from me unless I am willing to give it freely.

Maybe I'll write about the mundane. My dogs, my kids, my husband - they all have a place in that. Maybe I'll write about travel- with the dogs, the kids, the husband. Maybe I'll post pictures of places I visit or places I want to visit or places I never want to visit ever again. And maybe, just maybe, I'll write about what's in my heart. We'll see.

Today, though, I'll give you a glimpse of the little dog who has stolen my heart. He hates everybody except for a handful of people he's learned to trust. He's funny and loving and full of spunk. He could get a job as a bat with the ears God gave him (if he ever learns to like hanging upside down). His name is Pete. And this is the Bat Face.