What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »

What Does Downsizing the Government Mean for Me?

Everyone who reads this blog is aware that President Trump and Elon Musk are busy downsizing the government.  What that looks like and how that affects us is less easy to grasp and recognize until we come face to face with the ways these actions are being done.

Read more »

Power? Yes, You Do Have Some! Use It!

Thank you for being a reader.  Thank you for your curiosity and the very kind comments you share on Facebook and here on the blog.  With that being said, here we go again.  Please stick with me and then call your legislators in your state and speak out.  So many times I have read the stories, listened to the newscasts, watched the congressional hearings and still I know some of the people in my life believe I'm irrational and over reacting terribly.  Even if they don't agree with what is happening they throw up their hands and say, "It's awful, but what can I do about it?".  We are the only people who can do something about it.

Read more »

What's Education Got to Do With It? Warning, this WILL have some opinion feels!

And so, here we are.  He has plans to "do away with" the Department of Education. It isn't like we weren't warned.  He said he was going to do it, and now he's looking for a way to fulfill his promise to the American people to "downsize the government" and save the people a gazillion dollars.  Since we all know education is, essentially, a state responsibility why not?  Let me tell you why not. Please bear with this veteran educator of over 50 years as I share the story of why the Dept. of Ed. came about and what the demise will (not may) mean to you.

Read more »

This subject is taxing...or tariffing (bad joke)

There has been a lot of conversation among people who understand economics much better than I about President Trump's imposing tariffs on countries with whom we trade.  I think the question is "how will they affect us here in the mid-west in the coming months?".  

Read more »

Sure, Ask the Tough Question First

As always I beg you to read the executive order and refer to it multiple times while reading this blog so you can better understand what is or is not going to change for individuals in this country as a result of the Executive Order.  (https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/)

Read more »

Understanding the Immigration Issue

I'd like to try my best to explain what people are being singled out for deportation by ICE agents across the United States.  In order to do this we have to distinguish what is a legal immigrant and who is not legal.  Legal immigrants are foreign-born people legally admitted to the U.S. Undocumented immigrants, also called illegal aliens, are foreign-born people who do not possess a valid visa or other immigration documentation, because they entered the U.S. without inspection, stayed longer than their temporary visa permitted, or otherwise violated the terms under which they were admitted. (https://www.dshs.wa.gov/faq/what%E2%80%99s-difference-between-legal-and-undocumented-immigrants)

Read more »

What does the funding freeze mean to you?

As of this writing a federal judge has halted the executive order to suspending payments to programs of federal grants and loans.  This morning when the news came out many of us were just blown away.  We didn't know what it meant because there was no clarity regarding which programs would have funding suspended. There was a lot of speculation that medicare, medicaid and other payments would be delayed until at least February  10.  Let me explain how I see this at 5:32 pm, central time on January 28, 2025.  Remember things can change on a minutes notice.

Read more »

Current Happenings Affect Us All

These writings are my simple explanation for friends and family to better understand the happenings in our small piece of the world.  The writings are based on MY understanding and interpretation of current events and my personal response to those.  I promise to use primary sources of information, and cite those sources when possible, but encourage you to check things out on your own. 

Read more »