Necessary Evil

The State of Common Sense

I try to not blog about politics, but there are some evenings when that is not possible. Tonight I watched the President deliver his first State of the Union Address. This was the first time that I watched the speech with an honest non-partisan view. This was the first time that “my guy” wasn’t the giving the speech. This was the first time that I, an adult American, have actually felt and experienced the worries and woes that were mentioned and are felt across the nation.

I’ll be honest with you. I have no freaking idea what “Cap and Trade” means. I have no idea what the thousand page health care reform bill says. I have mixed feelings about the size (necessary or not) of our Federal Government. I am not comfortable with my recent opinions of Constitutional interpretation. I believe that we as a nation are not properly represented by our elected law makers. I believe it is our duty and given right to take a stand against a government that oppresses its citizenry. Is it time to fasten our bayonets and dust off our tri-cornered hats? No, not yet.

But despite my uncertainties and feelings towards a government that seems to turn a deaf ear, I do believe in our system. Even though I didn't vote for the guy I hold extreme respect for the office. Despite my thoughts concerning an out of control party system, misleading campaign finance laws, and a broken relationship of trust between the people and the law makers…I am comforted knowing that we live in the greatest country in the world with the best system of government ever seen.

So, to President Obama, I would like to thank you for the pep talk. You seem to "feel our pain." Now its time to get to work...all of us.

Recession Proof Reading

I love to read! This is no secret. I read so much that I have a hard time keeping myself stocked with books. I have a very random method to selecting a book from a book store. I most definitely judge a book by its cover. :) I have never been disappointed yet.

But in this time of increasing frugal interest, I have needed to cut back on my book budget. I tried going to book sales at local libraries, but it just didn't do the trick for me.

I discovered a website that sets up trades between book owners. Straight-up, absolutely free trades. I love it. I'm trading books like there is no tomorrow . . .

www.swaptree.com

I'm a fan.