June 08
Letter I submitted to The Racine Journal Times today.
Here is the link to the letter online (printed Wednesday June 10, 2009)
http://www.journaltimes.com/articles/2009/06/10/letters_to_editor/doc4a2ef9a3270ec548203860.txt
I am confused about something and perhaps someone out there can clear this up for me. When a person decides to become a pet owner - specifically, cats in this case - I have to sometimes wonder - what is their actual motivation? Did their child beg for a pet that the parent truly did not want? Did they decide that the cleaning of liter boxes was simply too laborious? There must be some reason, be it a good one or not, why cat owners allow their HOUSE cats to roam freely through the neighborhoods.
I adore cats. And that is why I want to vomit whenever I see one on the side of the road after being hit by a car. That is why is saddens me to no end to see cats spread feline HIV and various other diseases so rapidly. That is why it breaks my heart when I see them freezing in the winter snow. Aside from my love of cats, I also enjoy and appreciate the wild creatures nature affords us. And that is why last week I was sickened to find a murdered chipmunk in my backyard (luckily before the kids did). It is also why I have been obsessing over a baby robin with a mutilated wing all weekend. And it is why my mother painstakingly had to put her own indoor cat to sleep last week because the outside domestic cats coming into the yard everyday were making her urinate all over the house. Years of suggestions from vets and others did not conquer the problem and 15 year old Punky had to be euthanized per suggestion from her vet.
So, if you are one of those cat owners who allow your pet to run freely through the streets, I have to ask you – why? If your answer seems to outweigh the negatives your decision is bringing to others, then I hope you sleep well. If not, I urge you to please keep your house cats where they belong, in the house.
Meow.
April 21
My political duality is starting to resurface again. On one hand, I can understand how some people can go from being liberal to conservative as they grow older and see how abusive the system/government can be. On the other hand, I cannot fathom the cult-like mentality I see with so many right wingers especially since President Obama was elected.
One of many quotes by the more liberal side of the aisle after the latest Somali pirate attack is this one, 'Peter Chalk said he was concerned about calls to attack pirates on land, such as one issued Monday by Sen. Jim Webb, D-Va., because "I don't think that really addresses the nub of the issue, which is lack of employment, lack of governance, in Somalia."
This was reported by USA Today. While I do understand and have genuine compassion for those who live in parts of the world which are not only less fortunate then us, but in utter ruin; I also am frustrated with how the US seems to deal with these situations. Land cannot be an enemy. Our enemies are not countries like Iran, Somalia, Korea. Our enemies are the regimes, the terrorists, the dictating governances. We must, as a country, protect our own from the dangers via those who hate us. We should also have a humanitarian responsibility to help those who cannot help themselves – regardless of their birthplace. However, there needs to be a point in which we realize that our helping is costing too many lives, dollars and respect. Why does America find it necessary to continuously help and fix those who want to destroy us? When following the story of the hijacked ship last week, I did not think about how we can help those people. What are they contributing to the world? Nothing as far as I can see. I went to my basic animalistic being and simply wondered why we were not blasting them out of the water. And when the Navy took out those 3 pirates with that movie-esque awesomeness, I cheered. People died and I cheered. Who am I becoming?
So where do I stand? I just do not know. Lives are lives. I have to believe there is a purpose for every soul brought into the world. But I also believe that the world in general would be a much better place without certain individuals. And yet, I cannot bring myself to even support the death penalty. See what I mean? Maybe it is just a part of being Aries, but my devil and angel shoulder buddies argue WAY too much. It’s like watching The View. I cannot tell who is saying what anymore.
Teabagging. Oh the hilarity. I am quite certain everyone has had enough of this topic. But those events or protests or whatever they were really made me see some people in a light which concerned me. I don’t think my mom will mind if I use her as an example. If so, sorry ma. Growing up my parents were liberal and voted democrat anytime I can remember. We were lower middle class with times of struggle – powdered milk for a small stretch there. But we had what we needed. My mom went back to school and quickly moved up in her career in Health Information. My step father is still at the same company he began working for when he was 18. He is machinist I believe would be the title. So, once they got rid of us and began making more money, I noticed their political and social views were changing. They began increasingly appalled by social programs, liberal celebrities, taxes, welfare, etc. They are currently at the point of watching Bill O’Reilley and Glen Beck on a regular basis. Thank God typing afforded me the ability to avoid saying those words out loud.
I talk to my mom on a daily basis. When speaking to her on the “Tea Bagging” Day, I was floored by her reaction. I was telling her that I thought it was so funny how everyone was talking about tea bagging that day. Just trying to keep it light as I already know politics is not a good road for us to conversationally travel. I am not sure she is aware of the euphemism, however, since she didn't seem to see the what I thought was obvious humor. She then went on to say how she felt so proud and happy to see people getting together, protesting peacefully and standing up for their beliefs. Sorry again, ma...but my chin couldn’t have dropped any further and my eyes STILL hurt from rolling that far back into my head. If she had seen protesters any time in the past she would have considered them annoying hippies. Actually, Jon Stewart (and his writers) says it better HERE.
It is all just such wackadoo hypocrisy. In fact, I remember all the cartoons sent by my Republican friends when Gore lost – alluding to the fact that he was a crybaby – and all his supporters were crybabies. Umm. (cough, cough) I whisper, “So, who’s the crybaby now?” I always thought that lying was my biggest personality pet peeve. But I have finally realized that I hate hypocrisy so much more. Perhaps that is why I am so not happy about all this confirmation nonsense my step daughter is going through...but that is a topic for another time.
So, as you can see, I have no idea what I am. I cannot seem to really agree with anyone 100%. This leaves me without any political label or group. I guess I will just float around in my political ambiguity and stop looking for a place to land.
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My daughter can be SO embarrassing sometimes. I think I told you that she once asked a man if he was a pirate. She also has been known to fart in public. Yes, very elegant child. But this latest one takes the cake.
You know the song, “Pop Goes the Weasel” right? Well, for some reason (of which I have NO clue) she sings, “Pop Goes the Cherry.” AND she decided to sing it VERY loudly while marching through the yard. Before you think this poor child is living in a sinful, sailor mouthed home – she is not, I assure you. I am the worst when it comes to accidentally letting my potty mouth slip. Charlie rarely does. And we never allow them to watch anything rated above PG. So, really the only place it could rationally come from IS me. But it didn’t. I swear. I mean, I don’t swear. Shit, you know what I mean. I know for a fact she did not learn that from me because I just never would say that. It just isn’t a reference that comes out of my mouth. So, it obviously is coincidence. And try explaining to a child why she shouldn’t be singing about a cherry. This kid is gonna kill me. J
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Sexting. Have you heard about the latest craze? Probably so since they are talking about that all over TV and radio - almost as much as they are with Twitter. Anyway, sexting has been the topic of the day because of a recent story which you can see HERE. First of all, I am pretty strong on my continuing resolve that kids do not need cell phones. And if a parent wants them to have one for whatever reason their kid talks them in to it – then they at least have NO place in school whatsoever. I would also be devastated if my child was stupid enough to put a torrid or equally embarrassing picture “out there” to never truly be retrieved. However, kids are dumb. They do dumb stuff. It’s kinda their job. Sometimes kids are a little dumber than others and life altering mistakes are made. These tragedies are from which everyone should learn. But when our own lawmakers want to compound the consequence of a situation such as this, it is not only abuse of power but also counter productive. I mean, isn't our job as adults and parents to raise society’s kids to grow up to be independent, productive, healthy adults? Why make it only THAT much harder to crawl from the hole in which they fell? These girls are basically victimizing themselves. Yes, boys can be very persuasive. And yes, I know times are different. But not everything has to be. Do you know how hard it is to get a decent job with poor results on a background check? Or even how embarrassing it is to have to disclose such private information in every interview? These are not hurdles easily made by strong women, let alone young girls with obvious self esteem issues. Prosecutions such as these do nothing to help society. Take that tax payer money and put it in to education and self empowering programs for teens. Give me a break!!
This is very much how I feel about a blanket sex offender registry. This registry has names and pictures and addresses...but in most cases, the details of the offense is not known. We look at the list and assume that all of these people must be horrible and/or sick individuals. But really, someone could be on that list because she had sex with her 17 ½ year old boyfriend. And now perhaps for something like sexting?? It’s not right.
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Well, I think that is enough for today. Will talk at ya soon.
OH one more thing. You know those As Seen on TV Smooth Away shaving pads??? Don’t buy them.
Ok. Bye now. April 17 Why does this keep making me cry like a baby??
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Talking about YouTube - Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009 (With Lyrics)
Click here to hear Susan Boyle singing 'Cry Me A River' , from a charity cd in 1999. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jI2DxkrgpgQ47 Year old Susan Boyle wows the judges with her performance in the auditions for Britains Got Talent, singing I dreamed a dream from Les Miserables.Here are the Lyrics(Thanks to NewHotdox) -I dreamed a dre... April 06
This past Friday was my 35th birthday. And perhaps it goes without saying; I have been in a pretty icky funk lately. Turning 35 in itself was enough to start me in a self pity direction. Then I had the most uneventful, forgettable birthday ever. And now here I am on a Monday morning realizing yet again that I am just on this hamster wheel of which I have no idea how to get off – or even where I would go if I did. Oh and I think I may have cancer.
Do I even really need to explain how being 35 sucks for me right now? I mean, I feel like I have accomplished nothing in my life really. I have nothing that is just mine. I still don’t know who or what I want to be when I grow up. I mean, come on. When am I going to find MY LIFE??
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On Friday, my husband woke up late and was rushed getting out of the house. Still, I was surprised when he didn’t say Happy Birthday. But I knew he would remember so I just thought it was funny, really. The phone rang shortly after and I was sure it was him. Nope, my mom. Then the same happened when my sister in law, step dad and the doctor’s office called. Finally the phone rang at 3pm. “Happy Birthday”, he says like nothing. I said – gee thanks. He admitted that he just remembered when he was filling out his time sheet. Then he said, “OH! I am supposed to pick up a cake for you, huh?” Yes, Charlie. I want my cake.
I knew I wasn’t getting a gift because we had discussed it earlier and my gift was a night in a hotel. That is usually what my birthday gift is. I like to go to a hotel alone for a night to get away and relax. I watch movies, order room service, do my nails and just have some me time. So about a week before I found a great deal on www.hotwire.com and booked my room. So I suppose his gift to me was his permission to go away for the night while he takes care of the kids. When I say it out loud, I feel kinda bad about myself. I know it is all part of this pity party I am throwing myself...but am I crazy for thinking that is lame? I guess just once in a while I want to feel important or special to SOMEone...just once in a blue moon. I really am not asking for SO much – or am I?? A card would have even been nice, ya know?
Charlie isn’t a bad husband. And usually I try not to write much about our relationship issues out of respect for his privacy. But I guess, I needed to talk about this today. I tried talking to him yesterday and he just viewed it as me bitching. I dunno. I am grateful for his positive attributes, I really am. But sometimes I just feel really bummed about the not so positive ones.
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So, I did have my hotel night on Saturday. It was ok. Not as relaxing as it usually is. I think I may need to do it again soon to fully recharge!! I watched two really great movies. It was a Kate Winselt night – Revolutionary Road and The Reader. I will be writing reviews on both sometime this week. I think Revolutionary Road is partly what is making me feel this need to reevaluate though. But it was very good.
I did my nails. Gave myself a facial. Had a delicious cheeseburger and a glass of wine (which I diluted with a whole can of diet sprite). And some dark chocolate M&Ms for dessert. Yum. And yes, I will be working harder on the dreadmill this week.
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Next week my step daughter is driving to Connecticut with her grandmother, aunt and cousin. They will be gone a whole week. Charlie’s grandfather lives there. I am nervous. I just really wish they were flying. I will be glad when it is over. Cassidy wasn’t asked to go, which I do understand. She is still too young and hyper. I wouldn’t have let her go anyway. She is jealous though. She wonders why Kenzie is always “the lucky one”. I try to explain it, but it is futile. She’ll get over it if she hasn't already.
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Another reason for harder workouts this week – Easter Brunch!! We always go to the Marriott for their Easter Brunch. It is huge and delicious and their dessert table is to die for. This year my parents and brother’s family will be joining us. It should be nice. I usually have a little egg hunt here after for the kids. But since Kenzie will be gone, I think I will plan it for the following weekend. And that rocks because I can go to Walgreen’s the day after Easter and get everything 50-75% off. I love saving money J
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Oh, the cancer. About 8 months ago I noticed a lump type growth on my thigh. I didn’t think much of it, but it got bigger and so I started looking up pictures on the net. It really looks like it may be basal cell carcinoma. I did a lot of searching and found nothing else that looks remotely like it. I am going to the Gyno this week and I was just planning on asking him about it since he will geographically be down that way anyhow (yea...fun). I am nervous when I really think about it. So, I try not to. Which is kinda why it has taken me so long to finally even ask a Dr about it. I really do not know what to expect with all of this. I do know that I wish I hadn’t spent so much of my life in a tanning bed!! Maybe I will get lucky and it will be something totally harmless. Though, I can’t imagine it is. Ugh. I cannot think about this anymore today. I see the Dr. tomorrow. I will let you know what’s up.
Well...I have to get some laundry done. As the wheel continues to spin...
Talk at ya soon. April 03
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April 02
Last night I watched the season 2 finale of Damages. Damages is a suspenseful prime time drama on the FX network. This is probably the first television show with such a remarkable, stellar cast. Peppered with the likes of Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Tate Donovan, Ted Danson, Zeljko Ivanek, Marcia Gay Harden, and William Hurt – this show never ceases to amaze me as to which actor will show up next.
Damages is shot like well directed movie and written with a high degree of intelligence and excitement. Based on corruption, greed, murder, deceit, trust...Damages revolves around powerful attorney Patty Hewes (Close) and her new associate Ellen Parsons (Byrne). But this is not your typical legal series. From pretty much the first episode we knew the battles would take place in the lives of these attorneys and those they know – and not so much in the courtrooms.
This is definitely a show in which spoilers would truly ruin the experience...so aside from the description above, I will not divulge that will enthrall you naturally anyway. I will, however, ask that if you have not already been enjoying Damages, please rent season one and watch the reruns of season two on FX. Be ready for next season, you will not be disappointed. And hopefully, this favorite of mine will not be ridiculously cancelled like some others that have my undies in a bundle (Life, Life on Mars, The Riches...).
Anywho...check it out, eh?
In my latest attempts to improve my health and body – while losing weight – I have decided to approach the situation differently. And as it turns out, it may not be so strange after all.
Little background – when I was 29 years old I quit smoking, alcohol (with the exception of a glass of wine once in a blue moon) and caffeine. Part of the reason I did this was because I was diagnosed with an arrhythmia that is now under complete control with a beta blocker (medication which keeps heart rate low and steady). At that time I was about 145 or so. I was not happy with my body – as I never have been. But looking back, I do not know what my problem was. I only WISH I could look like that again. HERE is a picture. This is about 2 months before getting pregnant which was a couple weeks after the diagnosis. SOOO...due to the medication and of course, the pregnancy, I gained about 70lbs. Yikes is right.
Now...my “baby” is about 4 ½. And I still have about 30lbs to loose. During these last 4 years, I have tried EVERYthing. Bought a treadmill, DVDs, gym membership, weights, balance ball, Nutrisystem (2 months worth), yada yada...Those 30 pounds do NOT want to budge. I have spent months weighing my food, writing EVERYthing down, counting calories, joining different weight loss websites...again, yada yada. So, a couple months ago I decided that I those typical weight loss methods were just no good for me. I became obsessed with the numbers, with every morsel that went into my mouth. The scale was an enemy that made no sense to me. How could I have been making so many significant changes with virtually no change on the scale? It made me furious.
So, I basically decided to chill. I will buy food that is healthy and not have temptations in the house. If I have a weekend day splurging, I do and TRY to do this without feeling guilt. That is something that will take some time. Only when I do “splurge” I do not stuff myself, ever. I stop eating before that full feeling. I eat smaller meals or snacks throughout the day. Though, I do still need to work on eating breakfast everyday. I basically try to eat when I feel hungry and stop when I am not. I eat only things I really like when I splurge too. I try to eat it slower. And I do not drink any calories. Water, decaf iced tea, decaf coffee...and a diet decaf soda here and there is all I drink. I have not weighed myself in months. No measurements either. I am going to base results by how my clothing fits, how I look naked and how I feel. The scale is a joke anyway. They are never exactly right and our bodies change so much through each day. Hell, around my period – I can gain 7 pounds in bloat!! That is no exaggeration either...unfortunately.
I have also increased my exercise. I use my treadmill about 6 days a week and will do anywhere from 30-50 minutes. I also use my hand weights and balance ball for ab exercises 2-3 times a week.
My mom and husband have said I look thinner. Not sure how honest they are being. But I do feel my pants are a little looser. Anyway...I was reading an article last night and found out about THIS. It is called Intuitive Eating. And it is pretty much what I have been doing on my own. I thought it was so interesting that it was actually being practiced by others intentionally. Check it out. March 24
March 24, 2009
Dear Mr. Russo and Gifford Staff,
I am writing to you today in regards to the interview I had given to The Racine Journal Times concerning school snacks. I wanted to first convey that in no way, shape or form did I ever intend to disparage Gifford or its educators. I am and always have been very outspoken about my support to public schools and Racine’s teachers. By reading some of the comments following the article, you may think I feel otherwise. So I wanted to make that clear right off the bat.
I would also like to explain how this article came about. One morning I found out that my step daughter (whom I have helped raise since 14 months old) had been taking her allowance to school to buy junk food at snack time. Her father and I were not aware of this and she explained the snack cart to us. Until this time, we knew there was a snack time, but never knew snacks were sold to the kids with the exception of the popcorn Fridays and occasional ice cream. So, needless to say, we were surprised. As I thought about it that morning, I decided to write a blog on the subject. I write on a personal blog site several times a week – anything from personal situations to local politics to movie reviews. If you would like to see the original blog of which I speak, here is the link: http://cheersrayne.spaces.live.com/blog/cns!656F9A4108C3E513!6719.entry
I also sometimes share my blog entries on The Journal Times website if I am looking for advice or suggestions. This is when a reporter contacted me and asked a couple basic questions regarding what I had written. So, that is how this was all brought to a head.
I know the difficult position schools are in right now. And while my sympathies do not necessarily lie with Unified – they most certainly lie with the educators within the district. I realize the snack cart as an idea was and is a good one with positive intentions. I just think that more common sense and planning could be put into choosing the items for the cart. It is no secret that children are getting heavier and heavier and doing less and less. While I believe all lessons and education need to start at home – I also think it is the school’s responsibility to not undermine the lessons we should be teaching our children. How can a teacher explain to a child about the importance of the 5 food groups and nutritional values when five minutes later the kids are encouraged to buy a Ding Dong? That is all I am trying to convey.
I appreciate you taking the time to listen to what I have to say today. Please feel free to ever contact me if you wish about this or any topic. I do try to make an effort to be an involved parent.
Regards,
Heather Rayne Geyer March 23 A couple weeks ago, I posted a blog here and on the Journal Times site regarding the school snack policy at my step daughter's elementary school. Here is the link to that blog on this site...and here is the link to the JT blog.
Shortly after posting the blog, I received an email from a reporter at JT stating she was interested in peruing the story as it ties in to National Nutrition Month. I gladly spoke to her and pretty much just reiderated the statements I had made in the blog. That same night I ended up receiving an email from The American Diabetes Association regarding a bill that is being introduced to congress on this exact topic. Clearly, it is not an issue that only concerned me.
Today the article ran in The Journal Time. Here is a link to the online story and comments from readers. I will also paste the article below:
Upset about school snack options
Parent says healthier choices fit prevalent message of the times
BY LINDSAY FIORI
Journal Times
Sunday, March 22, 2009 11:46 PM CDT
FRANKSVILLE — Potato chips, candy and Ding Dongs have Heather Geyer up in arms. Geyer isn’t upset about the poor nutritional value in these foods or even about their prevalence in American diets. She’s upset about their availability at Gifford Elementary School, 8332 Northwestern Ave., where her stepdaughter attends third grade.
Gifford has a daily break during which parents provide snacks for kindergartners and students in first through fifth grades can purchase a variety of snacks, some of which are not the healthiest of
choices.
“I think it’s undermining what I think a lot of parents, or even what society, is trying to teach children about being healthy,” said Geyer, 34, of Mount Pleasant.
The snack break exists because of Gifford’s 987 students, who eat lunch anytime between 11:20 a.m. and 1:10 p.m. and end their school day at almost 4 p.m, said Gifford Principal Steven Russo.
“It’s a long day, so we give them a snack break in the afternoon or morning” depending on when they eat lunch, Russo said. “I’m not going to have a kindergarten child that eats at 11:30 go all afternoon without a snack break,” Russo said.
But, he added, no child is forced to have a snack. Students can bring different snacks from home or not eat anything. Snack break foods are donated by parents or bought by teachers at places like Sam’s Club. Student snack purchases reimburse the teachers and any additional money earned goes toward field trips or other activities.
Russo said that, while each grade handles parent notification differently, parents are generally informed about snack break through Parent Teacher Association newsletters, teacher conferences and homeroom notes.
The program started more than 10 years ago and Russo has not received any parent complaints in his time as principal, said Stephanie Hayden, Racine Unified School District
spokeswoman.
Geyer said she knew about the snack break time, but did not know the school was selling treats.
“I thought they just sat around and maybe brought something from home,” said Geyer, who wishes the school staff could sell nutritional items like apples or string cheese.
Good habits should start early
Schools fall back on cheap and nonperishable candy and chips for snack times, ala carte sales and school stores, said Susan Nitzke, professor of nutritional science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
“Rather than start with that, start as soon as you can with the expectation of healthy food all day long,” she said. “Then, while you’re solving one nutrition problem you won’t be creating another one.”
Nitzke said the importance of starting good eating habits early in life should outweigh the cost and, if cost is an issue, many federal programs exist to get funding for healthy foods.
“It’s much easier to teach children in school than to re-teach adults,” Nitzke said. “Surveys show early if children start to become overweight they are more likely to have obesity problems later in life.”
Geyer’s complaint comes during National Nutrition Month. To celebrate the month, Unified is having Chartwells School Dining Services’ resident dietitian Lori Vavrek read a book about the importance of good nutrition and physical activity to first through third grade classes.
But Vavrek is not scheduled to visit Gifford because no one from the school responded to her letter sent to all school principals.
“I did not get a request from any teachers at Gifford this year,” Vavrek said. March 15 As I receive the candidate's responses to the questionnaire I sent to them, I will paste them here. So far, I have only received one response. I was unable to find an email for Jaimie Charon or Raymond Fay.
Jody Harding
Briefly describe your life growing up.
I was very fortunate to grow up in Hoffman Estates, Illinois in the 1960’s, when almost all moms were “stay at home” moms, and kids could spend summers playing from dawn to dusk without adult supervision and in complete safety. I lived within 30 minutes of both sets of grandparents, who shamelessly spoiled myself and my two brothers.
What has been your most difficult obstacle?
Over the years, I have found it difficult to be taken seriously as a candidate for management positions because I am a woman. The “glass ceiling” is still very much in existence. I have found that, like most women, I have to be twice as smart and work twice as hard as a man to achieve the same results. Fortunately, I really enjoy overcoming challenges.
What accomplishment have you made which has given you the most pride?
I was extremely proud to graduate Magna Cum Laude from Ancilla Junior College in Donaldson, Indiana, before continuing on to get my BS degree from Indiana University. I was also very proud to be appointed President of a small manufacturing company in Milwaukee. However, my greatest source of pride and pleasure is when my husband, my mom and my friends and family say, “I’m proud to have you for my friend.” No other success can replace that one.
Which characteristics about you make you the better candidate?
My greatest failing and my greatest strength are the same: I am stubborn. Once I am convinced I am right about something, it is very difficult to change my mind or my course. I recognize the importance of understanding the underlying problem before designing a solution, and I believe we have to take the long-term view of most issues, even when the short-term answer is easier. I am a good communicator, and have a talent for getting people from opposite sides of the table to work together.
What do you like to do on your time off?
My hobbies include reading, crafting doll-houses and raising orchids. I love working in my yard, playing with my dogs and watching old movies with my husband of 27 years.
Do you think you will live the rest of your life in Racine? If not, where?
I expect to live in Racine for the rest of my days. We have been blessed with a beautiful home and wonderful neighbors. Racine was once a safe, friendly and prosperous town, and I believe it can be so again.
What are the top 5 things Racine has to offer its citizens?
1. Friendly and caring people
2. An island of peace between the bustle of Milwaukee and Chicago
3. A beautiful lakefront, harbor, zoo and other amenities
4. Wonderful old neighborhoods
5. Great potential for business and personal growth
What do you think the average Racinian could do to better their city?
Focus on all of the good that is here, and speak of it positively whenever possible. Get to know your neighbors, and watch each other’s backs. Take responsibility for your own actions. Vote.
Do you have any pets?
I have – among other things – 3 horribly spoiled dogs.
If you are elected Mayor, what will be your top 3 objectives/goals?
1. Support new and existing business by reducing wasteful spending of tax dollars, and by reversing our path of over-regulation.
2. Reduce crime by giving support, coordination and resources to the local organizations that are making headway in some of our worst neighborhoods.
3. Promote education through grassroots efforts that encourage kids to say in school, promote the value of education, and provide resources for persons of any age to return to school.
Tough one. If you could not continue the Mayoral race, which of the 11 candidates would you prefer to see win this race?
All of the candidates besides myself and one other have a long history of “public service.” The worst of these politicians have records of investigations for fraud and unethical conduct. The best of them have proved that they have no idea how to solve the issues that plague Racine. Therefore, if I were not running, I would vote for Jamie Charon as the only candidate who comes to the table untarnished.
This is the response from John Dickert's camp:
Hello Heather,
In regards to your email request for the questionnaire, I am going to direct you to John Dickert's website www.voicesforracine.com You should find all the answers to your questions there. If there is anything else you need, please feel free to contact me.
Thanks and have a great night.
Gregory Bach
Campaign Manager
March 13 My 4 year old daughter, Cassidy, was suppose to be cleaning her room last night. It was very messy and she was NOT happy about the job ahead of her. She was kicking stuff around that was on her floor and whining. As I started walking into another room I heard her scream, "Why are mom's boobs on my floor??!!!" She sounded horified. Apparently my nude colored bra made its way into my daughter's tornado-like destruction.
The following is a list of books which reside peacefully on or under my night stand. I have read parts of all of these books but have only completed one of them. It is pathetic. Like right now, instead of writing about the books I want to read...I should be actually READING them. Duh. But my fatigue is just too heavy. If I start to read, I will fall asleep within minutes. It sucks. I wonder, what does my list say about me?? What does YOUR list say about YOU??
March 12 As many of you probably know, our former Mayor Gary Becker, was recently arrested and charged with felonies due to his apparent 'sex addiction' and taste for teenage girls. He is no longer Mayor and is currently residing in an addiction clinic out East. Here is a link in case you missed the story -
So, the Mayoral race is on with 11 eager candidates. The list/story is here:
I know that many people have no clue who they would vote for. And it is clear we need educated and involved voters in order to get this city out of the gutter.
I have written a letter and a questionnaire to the candidates. I have already emailed them to the individuals whose email is made available. I will continue to check on the others. And as I receive (or do not receive) responses, I will post them for you.
Here is the letter and the questionnaire follows -
Dear
My name is Heather and I am a citizen of Racine County. I am a married, stay at home parent with children in the Racine Unified School District.
I write as a hobby and have a personal blog site where I often write about local topics and politics. I am also an active voter and very interested in what goes on in our area. Obviously this upcoming Mayoral election is of high interest to me and many others in Racine.
I believe that people need to become more involved and gain a greater understanding for how their government works as well as the people involved in out local politics. I think a reason many do not is simply because candidates are not always seen as regular people. Regular people with huge responsibilities, yes, but people just the same.
The Journal Times will no doubt be asking the typical questions to the candidates – KRM, Property Taxes, Lakefront...What I want to do is ask a few questions in a way that will help us get to know you not only as a candidate...but also as a person. I think it is extremely crucial to speak about the specific issues – after all, that is on which most people base their votes. But when I am deciding on a candidate, I also try to look at that person and their values, ideals, personality.
I do hope you can take the time to answer the questions I have attached. I think they could really help some of us decide who really is the best person to lead Racine.
Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Briefly describe your life growing up.
What has been your most difficult obstacle?
What accomplishment have you made which has given you the most pride?
Which characteristics about you make you the better candidate?
What do you like to do on your time off?
Do you think you will live the rest of your life in Racine? If not, where?
What are the top 5 things Racine has to offer its citizens?
What do you think the average Racinian could do to better their city?
Do you have any pets?
If you are elected Mayor, what will be your top 3 objectives/goals?
Tough one. If you could not continue the Mayoral race, which of the 11 candidates would you prefer to see win this race?
March 06
I am embarrassed to say that I am just learning this morning that my step daughter eats junk every day. Uninvolved parent, you may be thinking. Well, maybe not involved enough I guess.
My beautiful step daughter is 9 years old and in third grade in the Racine Unified District. I have always felt it very important to try to have her eat as healthy as possible – while still being a kid of course. I make balanced healthy meals. I make sure our breakfast cereals have no more than 5 grams of sugar per serving. I even try to buy healthier deserts like no sugar added popsicles and things like that. I read labels!! Nonetheless, we have noticed consistent and significant weight gain.
It is no secret that childhood obesity is a pandemic that is literally weighing us down as a country. Healthcare costs will only continue to increase, health insurance premiums will continue to sky rocket, children will continue to precede the death of their parents...this is truly everyone’s problem.
It may sound like a silly bone to pick coming from a woman who is a tad overweight herself. But from my perspective – I became overweight in my 30s. It has been traumatic – honestly. I cannot even begin to imagine what it is like to be an overweight child or teenager. I cannot let my step daughter go through that. I want her to have the best opportunities and the healthiest life possible. I do not think that is probable if she becomes overweight. Being only 9, her weight is not an issue to her. And it shouldn’t. That is why I only discuss with her about eating healthy to be healthy as she grows up. I would never tell her she is too big or fat or anything like that. Just wanted to clarify that for the record.
Okay, so where is this going? Well, I found out this morning that she has been spending her allowance on chips and candy – AT SCHOOL. I did know that they had snack time in the afternoon. I was already annoyed by that. Why the hell do they need snack time?? I was under the impression that she was bringing something from home or just not having snacks. But apparently, at her school (not sure about the others) they provide a snack cart. In the afternoon they line up and walk to the snack cart where they can buy what they choose. I asked my step daughter what are the choices she can remember being on the cart. Here is the list she told to me:
Gogurt
Peanuts
Potato Chips
Candy
Peanut Butter Crackers
Kettle Corn
Ding Dongs
So. While some of us are trying to get our kids to eat right most of the time...the schools are basically undermining us. Kids need to be kids. And candy, cakes, ice cream...that really is part of being a kid – like it or not. But it should be up to the parents to give these treats to their children so that they can monitor what their kids are ingesting and how much.
I am really bothered by this. Am I over reacting? Is there anything I can do about this? Who is in charge of making these decisions in Unified?
I am a HUGE supporter of public schools. And I have always been there to defend our district’s teachers. But this is one time I am truly disappointed with our schools. February 11
I have a couple things floating around in this head of mine today. So I may sound a little all over the place, but I am sure you can handle it.
Well I guess the most prominent thing going on right now, with me personally, is the fact that I decided to try to wean myself off of a medication I am on. I am still not sure if it is the wisest choice, but I can always just go right back on if need be. I am on a very low dose as it is anyway. As I have mentioned in the past, I have a history with anxiety and panic disorder. Shortly after my daughter was born it came back with a vengeance and I finally decided to give in and try medication even though I had fought against it for so long. As soon as I started the medication, the anxiety dissipated and the panic attacks were no more. Not to mention I felt no side effects or any effects at all except for being anxiety-free. So I happily took this medication for the last four years.
Now, the thing is, this isn’t a typical anti-depressant type medication. Actually, it isn’t an antidepressant at all. It is a long acting benzodiazepine which is used specifically for panic/anxiety and seizure disorders. I knew starting this medication that it was addicting and actually one of the most addicting medications out there. But I wasn’t considering going OFF the drug at that time, I just needed to feel better. And it was a Godsend. But lately I have been thinking about it and I feel I am too young to be on medications which are considered to be life long maintenance drugs. And I believe that either this medication or my heart medication is hindering my weight loss. I will talk more about that later. Also, I just really want to be as healthy as I can with being on as little medication/supplements as possible. SOOO...I thought I would slowly decrease my dosage by breaking up the pills. Apparently with this particular medication, you need to taper down very slowly for a long period of time otherwise withdraw effects can be dangerous and not to mention very uncomfortable. I guess some people even need to be hospitalized!! Isn’t that friggin’ nuts? So, for the last two days I have taken a quarter less of a pill than normal. And I do notice it. It is like an edgy feeling. Like quitting cigarettes I would say. Maybe if I feel ok I will subtract an additional quarter next week and so on until I reach zero. But if I start to feel awful, I am right back on it. Because honestly, accepting that I have to take a medication for the rest of my life isn’t really earth shattering...I would just rather not if it is possible.
Another thing that has been on my mind is this woman, Nadya Suleman and what I consider to be her insane and irresponsible behavior. I am sorry. I know that I should try to be less judgmental...but I am obsessed with this story. If you don’t know about it...here is an article that can catch you up.
The jist of it...this woman – I believe to be 33 years old – has no job, no spouse or significant other, lives with her mother, doesn’t have a penny to her name, already a mother of SIX children just gave birth a few weeks ago to Octuplets. Not only were the octuplets conceived using risky and expensive IVF treatments, but so were her other six children – two of which have special needs. Needless to say, the octuplets were all born early and far, far underweight. Thank heavens for their survival as that is rare in such large multiple births. But there is no way to even conceive to what extent physical, cognitive and emotional problems could and likely will arise for some of the children.
I have always deep inside wondered about fertility treatments in general. I do not ever speak of it because I never wanted to hurt anyone. But I will say, I have to consider whether or not infertility is nature’s way of balancing out the population. Not to mention the millions of children who need adoptive parents. I know, that is easy for me to say - and even hypocritical you may think since I have a natural child. But there is no way I could afford adoption and because of a past unfortunate circumstance, I would not be permitted to adopt. But no, I do not understand nor will I pretend to understand what it is like to be infertile and desperately wanting a child of my own. However, when it comes to these treatments and drugs that result in these multiples which cause so much risk to the moms and the babies – I just don’t know where I stand on the issue.
But this woman makes me want to pull my hair out. To intentionally spend her last dime on infertility treatments which she knew could have this result or even worse...with no way or means to take care of these children...with an obvious obsession for attention and a clear lacking of judgment...it really irks me that 14 children were brought into her insane fairy world.
I try VERY hard not to judge a way a person parents. I know that each and every decision is personal and family based. And I know that it is ALWAYS hard to raise children...and that most of us can’t afford it (maybe you have heard the saying – If you wait to have babies until you can afford them, you will never have them) but COME ON!!
Okay. Just had to get that off my chest.
Okay, I am going to talk about my weight again. Sorry. Since January 1st I have returned to my healthy ways. I haven’t smoked in over 2 months. I eat healthy foods and I exercise 5-6 days a week. The changes I have made do not equal the changes I should see in the mirror. I did decide to ditch the scale and not measure my changes by the number. Numbers make me OCD and I get obsessed with it. So no inches, pounds, calorie counting...just common sense using the loads of info I have learned in the past 5 years. My mom and husband both say they notice a loss, but I do not. And certainly not as much as I should for how hard I am working at it. I really have to come to the conclusion that either my hormones are squashed and I will always be big or that one of my medications is hindering my loss and I may always be big. There are two meds I have been on since the weight started in my pregnancy (one I took during and after and one I started after). One is the one I am trying to wean from now. And the other one is my heart med which is already at the lowest dose and something I really should not quit. It is just really disheartening to think I will look like this forever. I want to be proud of my body. I realize it won’t ever look pre-pregnancy...but I don’t want this. I am humiliated. I don’t want to see anyone – especially people who haven’t seen me in a long time. I am ashamed. Embarrassed. You name it. I am still trying, but I am at wits end and getting really pissed off.
Well, that is it for now. Time to clean. Yippeeee...... February 06 My quote book has reached 100 quotes today!! I would have had many more after the past 15 years...but an ex boyfriend threw them away (insert swear words here) and I had to start over with what I could recover. Anyway, if you are bored...check it out...you may even be in there!!! Quote Book IOk...it was realized some quotes were missing so I added them to the site here (had to be a seperate list)
Quote Book IIFebruary 04
So on Saturday my husband and I decided to go to a movie. We originally went to the theatre to see Revolutionary Road but at the last minute I decided that Slumdog Millionaire would be a better choice to see with him and that I could see the RR next time when I go alone. I must admit – I had done a stellar job at avoiding trailers and interviews for Slumdog. I had no clue what it was about. None. And like I usually suggest – try to do this as often as possible. The less you know about a movie going in – the better. In saying that, if you have not seen the movie, I actually suggest you do not read more of what I write about it. Let the film be seen through fresh eyes.
Slumdog Millionaire, directed by Danny Boyle, is one of the best underdog type movies I have seen. But because of that, don’t think it is a straight forward or as common as those we are used to popping up in Cineplex’s across the country. I actually think of this movie as a cross between Hoosiers, The Usual Suspects and Red Dawn. Except...it is nothing like any of those movies. So figure that one out!!
SM takes place in Mumbai, India. The main character, Jamal played by British actor, Dev Patel, is a contestant on India’s most popular television show, ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’. In India, this show is much more popular than it ever was in the US and the host is considered an idol. Jamal shocks the audience, crew and police by answering every question correctly. When they break for the day, just before the 20 million rupee question, Jamal is taken into custody on the grounds of suspected cheating. Believing that a ‘slumdog’ such as Jamal could know so much was impossible for those in charge.
After an entire night of questioning and what most of us would consider torture, Jamal goes on to explain what circumstances throughout his life brought to him the answers he needed to win the millions. Throughout the flashbacks, as he tells his story, the viewer delves deeper and deeper in to the lives of these gorgeous Indian children whom were orphaned in the slums of Mumbai. As they grew and faced obstacles the majority of the world could not even imagine we are given storylines which are very fresh and original to the typical American audience.
Within this movie there is the magic of rooting for the unlikely, for true love, for justice and for mere survival. I wanted to see Revolutionary Road that day because I was feeling pretty somber and actually needed a good cry. Turns out what I needed indeed was a good cry, but through a smile.
While I am usually reeled in by characters and dialogue when it comes to my favorites – with Slumdog, I was drawn in by the remarkable cinematography, film editing and soundtrack. The camera work is artistic without being obnoxious. At the beginning of the movie there is a series of aerial shots of the aluminum roofs which cover the slum homes. It was a marvelous view of the massive poverty in which we were about to witness. The direction was just flawless. This is an all around beautifully made film with a beautiful story about beautiful children. So I guess I give it two beautiful thumbs up ;-) January 30
I hate these melancholy days. These cabin fever triggered moments which bring on sort of a contemplative somber. Does this happen to you too or is it just me?
Sometimes I think of the past and I feel sincere gratitude for making it through and no longer being ‘there’. But other times I think of yester-years and feel a great mourning for my youth, time wasted, friends lost, decisions not made and a life that seems not so long ago.
I need to know I am on the right path. But I am not sure what to look for. After all, this doesn’t even feel like I am on any path. It’s more like I am a statue – unmovable, steady, predictable, and reliable...but not progressing. Stagnant. But shouldn’t that be okay sometimes? Shouldn’t I be okay with that?
I love my family. I have more than I could ever need. I am fairly healthy. So what is with the empty sensation? What is missing? Or is it a void created by my own fucked up mind because it likes to torture me??
Perhaps if I take a nap, I will wake up on the ‘right’ side of the bed J January 23
Dearest Family,
As your wife and mother I realize it is my duty, my responsibility and many times – my privilege to take care of you. Whether it be tackling the never-ending laundry piles or preparing homemade, healthy meals – I am more than happy to do these things for the people I love the most in this world.
Having said that…there are some things which need to be made very clear. I have mentioned these issues, both quietly and loudly, in the past. But perhaps you had Legos or Ipods in your ears. So, I am using this format to let you know for the very last time what will happen when and if certain household crimes do not cease.
1. If I find gobs of tooth paste in the sink – I WILL know who left it there as though it is an art form (its not) – I will simply be forced to one day, when you least expect it...rub your toothbrush on my butt.
2. Apparently taking clothing off in record time is very important to you. Congratulations. But if I have to unravel inside out jeans which still contain skid-marked underwear and damp, smelly socks again, I will have no choice but to cut holes in all of your pockets and turn your socks pink.
3. Even though I love to cook, I do realize I am no Paula Dean. But if you feel it necessary to tell me dinner is “gross” or give me suggestions on how to cook it next time…”next time” you just may be eating a booger.
4. If I find gross things in the shower…lets see…such as…a LOOGIE, or clipped toe nails or even upside down leaking shampoo bottles again, your shampoo might one day be replaced with Nair.
5. Taking your shoes off is so appreciated. Thank you, my angels. However, leaving them all over the hallway, creating death traps on steps and hanging them from the ceiling fan is so not cool. Next time, I will be marking the top of each shoe with an L or an R in bright red permanent marker. Explain that to your friends who already call you stupid.
6. Why is it so hard to close a cupboard door? Sure once in a while…things happen. But EVERY. DANG. TIME. Really?? If I crack my head into another open cabinet door or damage my uterus by another drawer ajar, I will be nailing them all shut. You can fend for yourself. Learn to hunt if you have to. And half the crap in the fridge is probably expired already so don’t count on that for long.
7. Lastly, toilet flushing was a concept all of you mastered long ago. If I flip the lid to another monster floater I will have no other choice but to fill your shoes with cat poop.
Now, I think we can all work together on this. You are all bright people. Think I am joking? Try me.
Love,
Mom
**Disclaimer....
**Just felt like writing this after finding yet another bright blue disgusting wad of paste in the sink this morning. Obviously some of what I have written is exaggeration and I am making this footnote to be clear that I would not REALLY do these things to my kids...so please...no raised eyebrows.... :)
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