Wool and Spice

Every time I sit down to write, something happens that keeps me from completing two coherent thoughts. Never mind taking any photos or composing something that makes any kind of sense.

Right now I’m squeezing out a few minutes that I should be using to prepare for my next trip on Thursday. Niece the Second is getting married this weekend, again in Vermont. This wedding will be quite different from the wedding last weekend, but it promises to be as much fun. Fingers crossed that the tropical storm looming down in the tropics decides to fizzle out since the reception is in a big tent in the middle of a faux lawn (a hay field that’s been kept mowed all summer).

I don’t know if I’ll have another opportunity to post before next week. Somebody has turned up the busy dial on my life and I find myself actually having to schedule time to get everything done. Everything except my 100 push ups challenge. That has fallen and can’t get up. It’s still on my agenda, just not a priority.

Part of what’s keeping me busy is the upcoming election. Jack and I are working as volunteers for the Obama campaign and they’re not shy about asking you to step up and commit to canvassing or phone banking or other activities. Since I believe this is the most important election in my memory, I’m fine with that. While I want Obama to win what I really want is for people to get involved. Please don’t tell me it doesn’t make a difference who you vote for. If you really think that then you’re not paying attention. And you shouldn’t complain about the government you get.

I’m also been writing to my senators about this bailout plan currently being proposed. Hello? $700 BILLION to the investment banks et al to keep them from suffering the consequences of their own mismanagement and corruption? And the CEOs don’t think they should have to reduce their compensation? Excuse me? They should consider themselves lucky that they even have a job, because there are a lot of people who don’t as a result of their shenanigans. Congress should not allow this bailout plan to go through without restrictions on executive pay. How do you feel knowing every person is this country is going to be saddled with a $2,300 debt, that’s EVERY person, so that the CEO can take home millions? Does that seem fair to you? And how do you feel knowing that we’ve been told forever that we can’t afford universal health care or better education for kids because there’s no money? Funny how we seem to be able to afford this. And the war in Iraq.

Dammit, don’t get me started.

Breathing, must remember to breathe. Going to my happy place — which is getting harder to find these days with what’s going on. Breathe.

Anyway, I’ve also signed up to be a poll worker for this election and after this morning’s training I have a great deal of trepidation about it. But my few minutes have turned into 20 and I must get back to work.

I’ll be back soon. In the meantime, pay attention to the election, even for a few minutes. Remember there are debates this weekend and next week. It’s a good time to think about what kind of country you want to live in for the next 8 years.