The Principles In Politics

It's been politics as usual in Washington D.C. in regards to the unemployment extension and about healthcare. If you've watched the news on television you've heard the brainwash about this country being broken. If the truth was to be spoken, it has been off course for many years now, as far back as the foundation of this country. What I mean is since the beginning elected officials have always said one thing and done another. They have pointed a finger at the opposing side to an issue; they have gathered convenient information for their benefit.

Facts that make a point that helps create the illusion of urgency for the demands of a party, clearly not for the people. Now and then many politicians state that the costs of spending for things like war, bailouts to financial institutions, pay raises, and corporate deals are more worthy compared to lending a hand to us the people.

No matter your side of the scam we call politics you have to possess a heart, not just a brain that lacks common sense. One must possess a brain that is not mostly fueled by fear and greed, only thinking of dollars and cents. I've noticed since I first discovered our political system and its true design that elected leaders merely desire to stay in office, and speak from the wallet. To me this is a crime and a betrayal to humanity, a tactic that most of the baby kissing whores embrace.

Right now we have Jim Bunning talking about spending and how we should find a way to pay for the unemployed to survive on chump change.(This current extension is only for a month)It sounds like Jim Bunning thinks that we can't break this country with issues that would assist the unfortunate.

How can anybody in Washington say they care about spending when they make more than they're worth? When we finance war and continue to help the rich. We continue to help the people who drove our country to the brink of a depression. It's called a recession but how can it only be that. Forget the trivial definitions that concur on the term, forget how this country suffered in "The Great Depression" because if we remember it our current state would not compare.

I've heard hundreds of Americans speak of their personal lives and seen countless stories on television to know that we need compassion and proper action to stop the bleeding. I know many people who struggle to survive daily and will continue to in the near future. I know first hand how hard it is to put food on the table and find a job that fulfills the demands of providing for the family.

We have relied on unemployment benefits and will be affected by the denial of an emergency extension. We have barely gotten by, just enough to breathe and got a few extra things for our two year old daughter. The sad thing is I know many who have not and desperately need the extension.

It's too easy for people who have more than just enough to survive to acknowledge other people's place in life, let alone truly relate. It's easy to say to those who can't find work to flip burgers or pump gas if you care for the family! I say shut the hell up!

Just because inadequate jobs exist that does not mean they will choose you. Just because there are temporary employment agencies that does not mean you will be asked to work full-time anywhere. Because this country lacks sufficient amount of work and the proper pay for its people, it creates an overflow of workers. Therefore employers have piles of applications and resumes to look through, during this process the unemployed wait for sometimes nothing.

If people would take the time to think they could understand the added factors of our great struggle. There are the everyday bills,the costs of family, gas prices, the wear and tear of a vehicle and the human body! Anything extra that all children should have and the expenses that come with parenting will further break what bank that remains.

This country contains a majority that has relied on credit cards to get by, as a tool to deny poverty the power of kicking families to the curb. The negative reality to this strategy is the final result, high interests and even deeper debt. I know this because I've witnessed my family and friends pay dearly for doing so. I will admit I've never used one and most likely never will.

All my years I've wondered why we can provide good healthcare and pay raises for elected leaders but nothing legitimate for the voters. We the people have had no real pay raise in the minimum wage or real improvements to healthcare. Food prices rise and medical costs fluctuate monthly but no permanent assistance for the American taxpayers.

Common sense will show you that wealthy people don't fall into this experience. Yes they pay the high prices but can afford it. What bothers me about wealthy companies, politicians and the very rich is the obvious reactions to paying higher taxes.

What I was told by adults in my youth was "The more you make the more they take." Under that logic the super wealthy should be taxed more! If I as a teenager and as an adult accepted the deductions off my check as the amounts got higher then why can't those who are more privileged agree?

The reason I bring this up is most elected officials earn higher salaries and work closely with wealthy people. They seem to work harder for people who can finance campaigns and allow future opportunities for their families. But when it comes to the average American or underprivileged they talk the talk and rarely walk the walk.

Unless it's that time of the year when we have an election.

What bothers me about the current state of our nation and the continual push and shove amongst our political leaders is the lack of real focus. They discuss the importance of action and about the urgency to work together for the people, yet provide us with no real proof of it.

In the past I've stated that people prefer to point fingers at the White House and it's chief resident, many people fail to recognize it takes all branches of government to get things done. In the political world there must be real action and bipartisanship to allow this beautiful country to flourish, or this country will wither and die.

We the people are what matters the most, they are the civil servants.

Has anybody else noticed the scrutiny that our current President receives from the American people, the Teabaggers, the Republicans, the religious right, Independents, and some Democrats? I know that we have the right to voice our concerns and display opinions when we feel like it. I embrace our rights of freedoms and encourage all people to stand up for their beliefs.

What I don't understand is why now when we no longer have President Bush in office or his administration? We no longer have the designers of the current wars. The countless corrupted people who helped destroy this country with all their criminal activities. I wish to ask those who oppose President Obama where they were when the last President continued to do so much worse?

I can find faults in this President and our current administration but can't help but see the positive differences. After two terms of Bush and his peoples lies, I can easily give President Obama his chance. Well before the 2008 election I could see the slow results of the Bush years, the negative effects caused by his leadership, I could clearly see the real agenda of our elected leaders.

If anybody wishes to blame just the Democrats or solely point the finger at President Obama for all the troubles of today, I say shut the hell up! He may not have been my first choice to lead but since he won the election and agreed to deal with the problems in hand I will continue to support him.

Not because he's a Democrat or that he was just the better choice in 2008. I will support him because he is a President that tries to do the right thing in the political world. What I mean is most political leaders pretend to care about the American people, they pretend to care about the children and their future. They give a speech about compassion and moments later vote to deny Americans human decency.

They moan and groan about what they think is best and how "It's my way or the highway!" This kind of thinking gets us nowhere! This constant non-action will continue to destroy whats left of the political system and only hurt we the people.

Before I end this entry I must again state that we have spent trillions of dollars on unnecessary things,that the U.S. government has spent countless dollars on bogus agendas.

I feel that elected leaders should without question or selfish doubt provide human decency at all times for the people.

I must say to Jim Bunning and those who act like him to "Stop your greedy and heartless actions and sign the unemployment extension already!Stop talking about what this country needs and start doing something! You and all your like minded colleagues should create some decent jobs for the people in this country! If you and your corrupted colleagues can't provide humane opportunities then forfeit your salaries during these tough times! If you can't embrace progress or accomplish positive changes then pack your suitcase. Take your bags of money with you on your way back to your elected states."

If anybody can give me a real reason why my wife should not receive the extension or the rest of this country, feel free! But before you speak realize that I will not accept dollars and cents ideology.

Thank you for taking the time to read this entry and for simply stopping by.

P&L
Loren Ackerman & Family

Please Help Haiti!

A couple days ago I was sitting and playing on the computer. When Lisa said to me "Did you here that Haiti had a bad earthquake?" I responded "yes, it happened a couple days ago, many people have been affected by it" She stopped me in my tracks, "Wes! This just happened today!" I was confused! I thought about it for a second, then realized it must have been a bad dream. I saw it on a Yahoo blurb and felt sad when I saw it. I was wondering why nobody else was talking about.

I feel bad for dreaming about it a couple days before, like it was just another story or bad dream. Then to discover the sad reality of this nightmare, that it's very real. I feel many emotions by the earthquake, they change at any given moment. Like aftershocks form my heartache. The main emotion is helplessness. I want to jump into the television and dig them out, to help and hug those children.

We've both watched the news and felt that countries tragedy. Witnessing the cut and debris covered victims expressions. The pain in the faces of a frightened people, the sadness and anguish they feel. Some screaming for family, others digging barehanded in the rubble. My heart aches to see their struggle, it breaks when the media overplays video of the bodies.

I know it's the job of the media to report the situation, but I feel that there should be a line of decency. I have seen a lot of death in my life and had to deal with what follows those affected. I know real loss and still hold the images of lost loved ones, most likely until I die! So, don't think I can't handle the truths of life and death. I just feel the media can focus on the positives and reveal the togetherness within the madness.

I've witnessed and heard many reporters and supporters choke with sadness and also anger. To me this is human, we should feel like this. I will admit I've teared up, but not truly cried yet. Not like with Katrina and countless other disasters that have occurred in history. Not to say that I won't, because I will!

Right now I'm staying strong for the world, spreading the word. Encouraging others to do what they can. I have a FACEBOOK friend his name is Daniel, he is an Army medic. (Just like my Dad was!)

Daniel said, "Alive and Well in Haiti. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.Will go forth and do great things and save as many as I can get my hands on." Indeed he will! I told him to please be safe and do what you can for all of us that care.

My wife and I feel the same when it comes to tragedy and human suffering. We love life and hope for world peace. I asked my wife how she felt about the situation she replied "I wish that all countries were able to help themselves, so when disaster happens it could be helped and not a have to.I wish all countries had the opportunity to to be prepared and could swiftly respond to the people! But, that's just never going to happen!"

I responded, "Just like world peace!"

I have had other friends point out the history of Haiti and how it was hurting before this quake. Indeed, just like the rest of the world. It is a shame that it takes a disaster to bring people closer. Sadly we have too many people ignoring world issues, treating them as invisible. The world can't ignore Haiti's quake, nor can we turn our cheek.

I have chosen to ignore certain comments by Religious leaders about Haitian sins, to ignore certain Radio and television hosts heartless opinions.

I wish to add that when the earthquake happened many people were injured, killed, and are missing. United nations workers, American civilians, and people from all over the world. May those affected find the peace,love, and support that they require.

Many of my friends have helped raise awareness and donations through word of mouth. By way of text, computer games, and others methods that I will soon mention.

I've heard that relief has been greater than most of our past disasters. They say it is due to modern technology, that it's easier to help others now. This statement rings true, my wife and I have already donated a couple ways. Even by way of text, but it can take weeks to process. So, please take the time to support our brothers and sisters of the world in any way you can.

Life's what it is sometimes! No matter what disaster or cause that calls for human action, together we can create a beautiful tomorrow. In life, in any country there will be sorrow. There will be issues that need helped! All we can do as human beings is to be human and help others when we can. Stay strong and allow our emotions to be powerful and positive. To love one another the best we can and follow the life in our beating hearts.

Here is just a few ways we can help.

Doctors Without Borders
Friends of the World Food Program
International Rescue Committee
Facebook Charity Gift Shop;including:
Water for Haiti from Oxfam
Light a Candle for Haiti from UNICEF
Food for Haiti from CARE
Shelter for Haiti from The American Red Cross
Survival Kit from World Vision
You can buy virtual gifts through Zynga games
You can text "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to American Red Cross relief for Haiti

Feel free to find your own method, but pass it on! :)


Thank you for taking the time to read this! Please remember my words, but more importantly the people of Haiti! Please join me in helping the world to "live as one."

Peace & Love
Loren, Lisa, and Malayna Ackerman

To Good Times

It's that time of the year again! When we break out the new calendars and ponder about our life. Another Christmas has came and went, the holidays have filled our bellies. Long distance friends and relatives have spread the cheer by sending greetings by computer,phone, and U.S. mail.

For my family we shared a small thrown together meal. You see our oven went out a week before Christmas day. We still had to bake our gifts for all the family, we made due with toaster ovens. They turned out surprisingly well, we even enjoyed some ourselves.

It would have been nice to have the landlord call us before he enjoyed a feast at his family in another state.

Like I said we made due, we had a Cornish hen with butter, savory, and rosemary. I made some deviled eggs,red roasted potatoes with red peppers, with sugar snap peas. Lisa made some stuffing and crescent rolls. Lisa, Malayna, and I shared a good warm meal together.

Malayna got sick just before Christmas and both us shortly after. So, we had plenty of tissues to go around.

Later that evening we watched "It's A Wonderful Life" it is our favorite holiday film. I usually discuss this film in depth, but will let it speak for it self this year. I really enjoyed Charles Dickens this year, "A Christmas Carol" really touched me this year. More than most years, I guess it's because I feel blessed to have friends and family in my life.

For the first time I was able to read "The Night Before Christmas" to M.J. She asked me to read it twice, Lisa enjoyed it too. We allowed Malayna to open 2 gifts, she was overjoyed by it. It was a bit of a task to stop her after two, even more so to get her to sleep. Eventually she crashed, so we placed the cookies and milk out.

Then from the top of the roof we heard a clutter and Santa delivered her gift. We told Santa it was about time and went to bed.

Late afternoon we opened all the gifts and documented the occasion with cameras and video. Lisa got me a "Doctor Who" book that I wanted and I put together an album of our family. It contained photos of her youth, photos of things we did before M.J, what I like to refer to as B.M.J.(1999-2007)

I placed her baby belly photos with some birth pics, and countless photos that have been stuck on my cell phone. They have been on it since 2007, I had won the battle and retrieved them all.(Another long story.....) I had prints made and surprised her with this family album. :)

My father and stepmother Kay stopped by and handed out more gifts. We had a good time and they were off. They left to prepare for the get together in Pekin, IL. They booked a Hotel for a couple days and threw a bash for the closer relatives. It went well, we shared more memories, food and gifts.

The trip home was nerve racking, the roads were covered with snow. The three lane interstate had only half of a lane cleared enough to drive. There was no drifting and it had stopped snowing, but they never cleaned the roads? I think it was a money issue that caused the madness for the holiday drivers. It didn't help that the majority was discourteous and I had my wife and daughter in the car.

I was fearless in my youth, but having loved in your life can alter your behavior. Most of the time it's for the better! :)

I do hope those who read this entry had a good holiday. If anybody would like to share a memory, feel free.

In the last year my family has dealt with cancer. My Dad was diagnosed with terminal cancer and has recovered for now. My wife and I had dealt with a miscarriage and some other troubles. Just like most people we have grieved and celebrated the passing of loved ones. We've cherished the good through all the bad, for it could always be worse.

In life we can march to a slow death or embrace life for what it is sometimes. Maybe we don't have much to be thankful for, but we have just enough. The ups and downs of the past years have shaped our souls, the years have granted us some truthful wisdom. My wife and I are in our thirties now and have to start from scratch again!

Every bad year allows us hope for a new beginning, it permits us to try again. Some people say that if they had the chance to do it all over, they would, that would be me. Only I would try a little harder to remain healthy and optimistic with my life.

The truth is life's what it is sometimes and we have to accept it for what it is.

I would like to make an early New Years toast before I finish this entry.

May this coming year be rewarding and kind for all that wish it so. May the world embrace peace and love. I sincerely hope the best for humanity and the rest of this wonderful world. Let us welcome the start of the next decade and learn from the mistakes of the last one.

Thanks for taking the time to stop by my place and reading this basic blog. Maybe next year I will try to make it "Sassy" or something.

Until next time, please take care!

Peace & Love
Wes,Lisa, and Malayna Jane Ackerman

The Lights In My Life

I do enjoy looking at the tree in the morning night. Sometimes peace and quite is more valuable than any sum. The light of the tree is bright it stands silent.Our pad is quiet, on occasion the heater hums.

The tree is decorated, dressed up for the holiday. An ornament here and there, with some spots bare. You see a small creature moves daily, grabbing a candy cane. It's not a mouse, it's a toddler named Malayna Jane.

She is sometimes naughty but mostly nice. Children too can brighten the darkest room. I look at the tree with anticipation, for my heart waits to place the gifts upon the skirt. The holiday hurries,the days pass swiftly.
Christmas morning looms!

No worries.

In just two short weeks it will be the eve of our delight. The morning will come, M.J will rip open her surprises. Each tear with laughter and sweet grins.
Whatever your reason for the season, if there is love it will be alright.
Shortly after the holiday ends our new year begins.

I look forward to the start of a new decade, the chance for another year.
Before I part, I wish to say Happy Holidays to you all.

Cheers!
Cheers to you my dear friends!

I wish to send genuine gratitude and unconditional love to my wife Lisa and our little girl M.J

Peace & Love
Loren Wesley Ackerman

What Do I Know

Certain subjects are best avoided with family and close friends, unless they are like minded. Religion,Politics, and personal beliefs. I know many people who judge others by these three mentioned topics and they are usually deeply religious. The moral majority pass judgement on those who oppose the bibles sacred truths.

I believe it contains relevant stories and many ideas that should be practiced daily. It can be used for a the greater good and help people in life. I believe in Gods and that we should love thy neighbor. That we should try to be like Jesus and practice what we preach.

What bothers me is that people think it was written by God. When the fact is it was written by mankind centuries after the time of Jesus. That it was corrupted by controlling leaders and used it to benefit powerful people.

That it suggest that Women are to be regarded less than a man.

Even as a small child I could see holes in the Holy Bible. I did not look at one again until I met my wife. It was then I saw many things in it that I already believed and practiced. I did this without reading one, I did it by following my heart.

Back in the day there was no greedy churches, people went to others and spread the word. They went out and helped thy neighbors instead of praying and going only on Sundays to buy a a golden ticket.

I'm just explaining a small portion of my beliefs and I respect religious beliefs. I still love thy neighbor and I'm friends with all walks of life.

Just because I talk doesn't mean I'm always right. It does not mean anyone else is wrong.

If we could all rid ourselves of hate, we would live in a world of peace.

"People who love the same sex are sinners and should not have the same human rights as heterosexuals." Why because that is what God said? Is that what Jesus taught us?

Did you speak to God and he told you this?

"People who practice other religions are evil and wrong. We mustn't love Muslims or Atheists because they don't believe in God.

"We can't love Jewish people because they betrayed Jesus."

"People who have abortions are baby killers."

(I support Life)

If this was true than why do we prefer War over peace. Women,elderly,children, and infants die everyday in war. Mostly by military weapons and powerful governments.

This war has gone on too long, it has cost all countries involved. The price has been human lives on all sides and economic death for our nation.

People deny us fair health care because it will cost to much!

That is the typical reason people tell me.

Yes, I have asked strangers on the street about their opinions. What they would do if they were president, or would like to see President Obama do.

Many people bring up Jobs and good Health care for all.

If people support life than what about the pollution that taints our soil,air, and water. What about the garbage killing the oceans wildlife, the chemicals being dumped in the waterways, the chemicals being pumped into the atmosphere?

Big business has contributed to Earths demise more than the natural process of the Earths cycle.

The media and the Republicans talk about stolen Emails and the Liberal lies. They dismiss science when it gets in their way, but when data favors they accept it.

Most political leaders mention Global Warming because it can be discussed either way, part natural and the majority caused by man. They act as if they care, yet they propose plans that will not be quick enough.

Even President Obama has done this, he has also suggested clean coal as an option. You don't have to be a genius to know that it is not.

The truth is most people say they care when they fail to realize the true damage, the true cause. We spend way too much time talking instead of taking action.

Most of us defend and discuss fluff politics, the kind that truly doesn't matter.

Why can't we the people persuade the elected leaders to push for "Real" Environmental changes? Why can't leaders recognize the danger, and more importantly inform the public of the urgent need to fix it?

I believe it is because big business contributes to their reelection, industry provides monetary gains for those who help it. If they were push for strong laws that would make it hard for power companies, oil companies, and the pharmaceutical industry to poison the world, it would be bad business.

So, most powerful people will not wholeheartedly pursue this Idea of a safer and cleaner world. They will pretend they care and continue to denounce Global Warming. That way we can continue with fluff politics and ignore important issues. This pertains to many issues that need real attention, so that we can live a healthy life.

Both sides argue more than they contribute.

I can't recall the last time we had real unity. Some would say September 11, 2001 but that's not true. We were in shock and fearful of the reality of such a tragic day.

We took the time to notice one another and hug each other. We gathered together to remember those who perished, we mourned for the families affected by it.

In reality the entire world was changed by it.

On that day I heard panic on the radio, screams that Saddam did it! That gas was going to be five dollars a gallon and coworkers speak of killing "Those Sand Niggers!"

We did not even know what truly happened yet and the media was echoing Hussein.

The president sat frozen among the children when he should have reacted swiftly Then again look who I'm talking about a person who only acted swiftly to corrupt and destroy this country.

On that day I put the American flag at half mass with a gay man named Will. That's right he was Gay! Does that mean that he desecrated it by touch? Does that make me wrong to feel proud that we did this on such a terrible day?

NO!

I've noticed Fox News is concerned about the energy of the Obama Afghan Speech. That it was boring and lacked the charisma of Winston Churchill. That the end of it was put in for liberals, that he tried to make everyone happy.

Then we have Dick Cheney running his mouth about "The danger" and the mishandling of the Obama administration. How he displays American weakness, come on look who's talking. One of the central figures in the Bush Administration, a person who helped create the lingering mess we the people face today.

I think after all the years he spent in the white house his true motives have been reveled. I would hope the American people can see he is an evil man. He has been in the shadows of more than one President, causing only misfortune for all. Cheney defends his actions by blaming others when he should look in the mirror.

I just want to say to Dick Cheney, shut your mouth already!

Now back to the Obama Speech, it may not have been the speech of speeches, but it was important. I may not agree that we should follow the footsteps of Bush, but feel we should pull out cautiously. It lacked a real mention of Americas need for change, a change when it comes to war.

I believe most counties like Obama because he is not Bush, that he has stated that we would not continue the course.

When in fact he will briefly embrace war.

I know the main focus was Afghanistan, but I feel he should have put some attention on Jobs. That the billions spent could benefit this nation and that he was moving forward with jobs creation along with this Idea of more troops. Simply touched it more than what was said.

Why can't he Address the nation with the truth about the economy? Why can't he discuss the progress of prosperity, even if it is small.

I'm one of millions without a job and without benefits. I struggle each day to find work, it is easy to say that I should have one already. Sure if I had the cash to spend for gas,a good car, decent cloths, and didn't have medical issues that make it hard to get out of bed. I've applied for jobs that should be begging me to work, jobs that I'm qualified for.

Even past employers like The U.S Census Bureau which I had done in 2000. I passed the test and then received a letter regarding a 13 year old drug charge. I was arrested for a misdemeanor Marijuana charge, the amount would not even fill a pipe.

I was young and have paid for it every since. The strange thing is I once worked for Census Bureau and they had no problem then. They even begged me to continue until it was completed.

Now let the judging begin and say that I deserve what I get.

I've been clean as a whistle for longer than I can remember and have never failed a drug test. So, why am I treated like a child molester?

It is nothing new to me or to millions of other people who get discriminated. We make mistakes like not furthering our education and by poor choices in our youth. It sometimes can be a roadblock, but we usually find a way around it.

Every day gets harder for me emotionally and I can barely look in the mirror. I rarely like myself and try to stay confident each day.

I bring this up to partly vent and also use myself as an example of America today.
I know that life's what it is sometimes and tomorrow can be better.

Still I look at my wife and child with worried eyes.

After knowing this information about me you can understand why I try to avoid the news. Why I don't visit you as much anymore. After all many of us are only half the person we used to be these days. I know my heart and soul has not changed but I know I'm not the same.

Like I said people should not discuss certain subjects with others unless they are like minded individuals. The exception would be a person who listens without judgement and believes in human decency. Someone with a big heart would understand no matter the divisions in life.

Then again opinions are like sphincters. Everyone has one and thinks theirs doesn't stink.

Thanks for listening.

P&L
Loren Wesley Ackerman

Loren Ackerman Is Present

It's been some time since I posted here, but I was taught to think before I speak. For the longest time I've just wrote what I felt inside allowing the words to remain free. So, I have been writing countless pages about my feelings and my life. Almost trapped in my emotional limbo, my hearts cage.

I decided to keep those pages for me and will try my best to express myself honestly. Even if that means I lose followers and offend family.

I'm still young but getting older by the day. Just like most people I have problems, I too have loved ones pass. The car does not always run properly, the bills pile up.

The holiday puts a financial and emotional strain on family.
The best part about it is the smiles on happy faces. The stories being told, the memories being made in the moment. Sharing love with others is one of the greatest feelings known in life.

One of the worst pains in life is an infected broken tooth! I've been coping with it for too long! Popping pain pills like they are candy, still it stays. Please don't suggest going in to the dentist. It will have to wait, other things need repaired first.

A long time ago I heard that there are millions of children in need of dentistry. That there are millions of adults too, but never a mention of free dentistry. (Affordable Dentistry)

Every other night I question if I should do it my self. Just grab an ice skate and a rock, SMACK! Land on the floor, wake up and talk to a soccer ball named Wilson.

We here much discussion about Health care, both sides making points. The public in up in arms about Americans getting healthy, it hasn't happened because of money. (Then what about the money being spent to pay for war?)

Stalled because of fear brought on from false media propaganda. It has taken too long to get nowhere from the politicians from all sides of government.(What about the elected leaders being paid to destroy our country?)????-2009

If we as a country struggle to get by, then why do they get paid? Why can't they forfeit their top notch health care for their family? Why can't they forfeit their health care and salaries until we get back on track?

I'll tell you why! They don't want to suffer like our country does. They want to be separate, not desperate individuals. To remain powerful and overpaid. They wish to make proper decisions for this country and spread lies. To make promises so they might get reelected. There has been a handful of decent people who've held office. There are still a few remaining, a few who truly want good for all.

CCR once said "I ain't no senators son." This line remains true to life today. It applies with war, wealth,and health. In this world it really does make a difference in who we know.

Most of us are not from the realm of prosperity, most have had to honestly earn it.
We've had to keep on moving and stay strong. Inch by inch we crawl, step by step we walk tall. Hand over hand we climb tall mountains, but arm in arm we will right the wrongs. Together we will survive these times, as one we will overcome.

I have left out a great deal of information about my present status in life. I don't wish to overload compassionate hearts. Nor, do I wish to evoke pity. Let's just say I'm in need of a miracle in many aspects of my life. Believe me when I say it would benefit my family greatly if somebody would give me a chance to again prove my worth.

If anybody wants to fill me in on life or ask me about mine, feel free. My door is always open, as well my heart.

I do hope this Turkey Day was as splendid as mine. Love and food was passed around the table. :)

Thanks for stopping by.

P&L
Loren Ackerman & Family

Smell My Feet

Halloween approaches, the leaves fall to the ground. Children and adults prepare for the celebration. Costumes hanging on a hook, the routes planned ahead. Minds on the prize, the sweet treasures. Buckets and bags empty, they scream to be filled.

Tick tock goes the clock.
The days fall away with the children's anticipation.
The night draws near, tick tock.

Parents are excited from the mixed emotions. Some of us still dress up and others dread the front door. Since we now have a 2 year old daughter we go out in the dark, we go trick or treating. Plus, I have an excuse to dress up, more of a reason to enjoy Halloween.

I too feel the anxieties of the evening, the hassles of the hunt. Kids have a tendency to pop out like ghouls in front of my car. I understand that children hold a one track mind, CANDY!

The catch 22 of the modern times, we must protect the children. Therefore more parents are present, unlike the simple freedoms we had as kids.

Don't think I'm suggesting to let the candy zombies roam free! (Candy, we want candy!)

I see the difference from my youth and today's, we had much longer chains. My parents were there, but kept a safe distance. We had the opportunity to run house to house, without a parent trying to catch their breath.

Yes, there has always been a boogeyman. There has always been danger around a dark corner. Today we have programs that require monsters to register in American neighborhoods. Parents today watch the news, we know of Amber Alerts.

We as individuals know the world is full of wrongs. It holds some truly scary humans, but also contains responsible people. It is very simple, when we take the kids out this Halloween, do it right.

Teach them to be safe, to look both ways before crossing a road.
To protect themselves and others around them.
Don't leave behind friends or family in a mad rush to grab the chocolate gold. Explain the importance of not talking to strangers.
The simple truths about the people they might know.
To stay in a group and to tell a guardian when something is strange.

Watch the children enjoy the night with our loving eyes. Listen to the excitement in their voice, imagine the smiles behind the disguise.

We were all kids once, leaves crunched under our shoes, we too braved the unpredictable weather. We made our way to the porch with a light, the doors of fright and delight.

Our youth still screams "Trick or Treat" despite are age. Some of us still enjoy trying to decide what clever costume to where. Which prank to pull or person to scare.

Once we reach a certain age we realize that we can buy our own candy. As much as we want, it's just not the same though. I don't sit in my recliner and eat candy and later think what did I wear. (Unless I leave a stain)

Whatever version or reason behind "Hallows Eve" it has transformed into something. If you think about it, this holiday is about fun, there is no pressure of the perfect gift. It's not just about love or religion really.

It's to share candy, dress up, to simply have fun!

Being a parent, a grandparent, a guardian, it is a different joy. We get witness the beauty of innocence, the variety of costumes. The contentment of the children after there done.

"Oh this one is my favorite."
"I'll trade you this one for that one."
"No way! You got one of those!"

We get to say to the kids, "Don't eat any until I've checked it first!" :)

Even though most kids sneak a piece or two. I did! I knew my parents would take out some of my favorite candy. Because it didn't look right?

That's strange, because when I looked it over the packaging was fine?

That is why I've enjoyed MJ being very young. We love to take a few pictures of her, and help her eat her candy. :)

She was a monkey her first year, a puppy last year. This year we let her pick out her own costume. MJ picked one off a kids show she watches, I will give you a hint.

It's yellow and has a funny tail.

Don't worry I will post some pictures of her on Halloween night.

This time of the year holds memories from our past, it allows us to share them with others. To be a kid, to feel the season. It leads us to tomorrows happiness, so that they too become wonderful memories.

After reading this entry feel free to share any memory that comes to your mind.

I just have one wish for those who celebrate this holiday, please be safe and have fun!

Thanks for stopping by.

L&R
Loren Wesley Ackerman