It's All About Me

Random Stuff

1) Today is Resolve's Advocacy Day in Washington, D.C. I really wish I could've gone to this, and I might have if I didn't already have a vacation planned for 2 weeks from now. I'm curious how it all went.

2) Current Pet Peeve - This is actually something I've mentioned before - people who don't use their signals when driving. It will be surprising to learn that sometimes, the use of a signal is really helpful to the drivers around you. I'm just thinking about last night when I was coming back from acupuncture and I'm at a 4 way stop. There is a truck on the other side of me. I thought since we were both going straight, we could go at the same time. Well, it turns out, he was turning left. Umm, that would've been nice to know. Luckily, nothing happened. It was just annoying.

3) Another Pet Peeve - I was watching a basketball game the other night and one team was outplaying and outscoring the other, then the other team finally scored and the announcers state something like "and now we have a ball game" - what exactly was it before? It certainly seemed like a game to me. The next night, I heard a different announcer say it during another game.

4) Since we're not doing an IUI this weekend, Jon and I are driving over to Spokane Saturday morning to celebrate my sister's 30th birthday with her. We'll be coming back on Sunday. A quick little trip which is just fine with me since we'll be going to WI in just a couple weeks for Paul & Ally's wedding. I don't like to leave my kitties for too long, but I am excited about the trip. I think it will be fun. We'll fly into Chicago on the 13th, then drive to WI and stay there until the morning of the 16th, then drive back to Chicago to stay for one night, then return on the 17th. I also took the 18th off from work so I can recuperate.

5) And just a short statement about my support group - they are a great group of ladies, and I feel so fortunate to have met them. And thanks Trina for your comments yesterday. I really do appreciate it.

South Park Me

Created using this site.

Really Disappointed...

So I had an ultrasound this morning to find out what, if anything, the Clomid did to me. Luckily, I didn't notice any side effects this time - except for maybe a little discomfort.

Anyway, after one of the individuals there told me about doing the Clomid challenge and after telling me that we could do an IUI if things looked good, I started to get excited about the idea. I wasn't planning on doing an IUI, but I figured I'm taking the Clomid, I should at least try, so I was really, really hoping that it would happen. Thus, naturally, I'm really, really disappointed that she told me that we shouldn't do it this cycle because the "wrong" side is dominant once again. She said that she doesn't think it would be a good use of our money to try this cycle.

But thankfully, she said my estrogen levels and FSH levels were where they are supposed to be so there is some good news. Also, she said, after she could probably sense my disappointment, that she feels hopeful that she can get me pregnant (though probably with IVF) because the estrogen, FSH levels, and everything else is where they are supposed to be and because I am "only" 32. I just wish I had that hope too. It's hard to feel hopeful when it's been 4 years since you started trying.

It's so frustrating because although we are taking steps to get pregnant, I don't feel like we're moving forward at all.

Anyway, I'll go on Clomid again next cycle and hopefully, we'll have a different result then.

Nation States Game - Weekly Recap #1

Rather than putting all the issues and their responses in my blog, I'm just going to do a weekly recap - mainly so I can remember what issues I've answered...

March 21 - 5 issues

1) No human sacrifices are allowed.
2) No big wall around Dumbledoreland to keep immigrants out, nor will we make their entry into a game show.
3) Prizes for positive portrayals of minorities
4) Strict government controls on cloning of house elves
5) Offer karate classes to youth

March 22 - 2 issues

1) UFO question - dismissed it
2) Violence & nudity on tv at whatever times the tv stations want to show it

March 23 - 2 issues

1) We don't need referendums or initiatives - we hire the politicians to make the decisions for us - but I chose to allow referendums or initiatives only when 1/3 of the populace signs a petition for it. Though I kinda want to get rid of them altogether, but for now, I'll keep it this way.

2) Allowing fluoride in the water.

March 24 - 2 issues

1) There will be no granting of estates and conferring of titles of nobility in Dumbledoreland.
2) Dumbledoreland will not allow clothing made of fur.

March 27 - 5 issues

1) House elf-dog hybrids should be studied, not killed.
2) Giving wind power and solar power stations a chance
3) I'm not a fan of giving blood, but out of the options given to me, I'm making blood donations compulsory rather than dismissing the issue completely.
4) Beauty pageants should be open to men and women.
5) Marriage open to anyone/anything and to however many people you want to be married to.

Books (#8), Movies & Basketball

I finally finished reading Jennifer Government last night. It wasn't a hard read at all - I just haven't sat down to read the book too much. Anyway, it was an enjoyable read. (I'm really behind in my goal of reading 52 books this year - I need to pick up the pace.)

I went to go see V for Vendetta this past weekend. I enjoyed the movie, and it did have some relevance to what some people feel is going on in today's world (though apparently the graphic novel was written about when Margaret Thatcher was in office). I'd give the movie a B, I think.

The ending of the Gonzaga-UCLA game last night was just heartbreaking. They were winning the entire game up until the very end. I felt so bad for Adam Morrison.

But tonight the UW Huskies play the UConn Huskies, so it would be nice if the UW Huskies could pull an upset and beat those other Huskies.

In Case You Didn't Know...

How pregnancy happens - learn all about it from this cartoon.

More Infertility Stuff

Well, I went in to see my regular RE yesterday afternoon. She wanted me to come in for some bloodwork - test FSH and Estradiol again - and for an ultrasound. I actually didn't get to see my RE this afternoon, but the person I did see talked to her about what they think my next step should be. Apparently, she thinks I should do the Clomid Challenge with 100mg once a day for 5 days. Then go back for more bloodwork and an ultrasound. I asked her why she wants to do this and she said my RE wants to do it as a diagnostic test.

So it looks like I may be taking Clomid - so if I'm acting a bit grumpy on Friday when we go out to the Galway, everyone will know why. :-D

Nation States Game #16 - Water

The Issue

Due to the explosive population growth in Dumbledoreland, coupled with recent droughts, people are beginning to worry about the nation's decreasing water supply, and who should get first dibs on the vital H20.
The Debate

1. "We need this water to raise our crops," says incensed farmer Chastity Johnson. "If it wasn't for us farmers, the rest of Dumbledoreland would be starving. How about laying the blame where it belongs, and look to those cookie cutter suburban houses with their green lawns and pristinely washed mini-vans!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

2. "It is my right to have the most beautiful lawn in the neighborhood," says neighborhood spokesman Randy Mistletoe. "Our community spends a lot of effort cultivating a nice environment for our kids to grow up in. Why, if they didn't have these nice lawns to play in, they would be hanging out on street corners peddling drugs, or worse! Won't someone please think of the children?"
[Accept]

3. "Here is a novel idea," proclaims Elizabeth Winters, spokesperson for radical environmental group Leave Nature Alone. "How about getting rid of all these dams and irrigation projects that are getting in the way of Mother Nature's plans for the water. It is time to allow the rivers to take their natural courses and leave the environment alone. I'm sure things will work out fine if we let Nature take its course."
[Accept]

4. "Obviously, who gets how much water is only a part of the problem," notes famed population-control advocate Jack Broadside. "We must try to curtail the rapid growth of our population, whether by limiting the amount of children people may have, or by deporting immigrants and criminals... we must get a handle on our population before we can hope to correct this water supply problem."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Nation States Game #15 - Business

I chose what I did on this one because I'm trying to improve my economy - though in this game, it could mean a lot of regulations are out the window - neither choice was ideal, however.

Big business, fed up with over-regulation in Dumbledoreland, are heading offshore in ever-increasing numbers.
The Debate

1. "Good riddance!" says noted environmentalist Bianca Jefferson. "Sniff that air! It's never been so clean! At last, our society is freeing itself from the consumer death-trap! I say it's time to take the final step and outlaw capitalism once and for all!"
[Accept]

2. "This is a catastrophe waiting to happen," says the Chamber of Commerce. "Think of the consequences! Without big business, where do the jobs come from? Where do we get our medicine? Our cars? Our latest fashions? There are dozens of useless regulations the government could abolish today to make life easier for commerce, and it's high time they did."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #14 - School Uniforms

The Issue

A random PTA meeting has brought the debate over school uniforms to your attention.
The Debate

1. "I think uniforms are great," says Jennifer Bush, your Minister of Education during a cabinet meeting. "They instil a sense of community within our schools which lowers crime - and the pupils can go about their daily business without having to worry about being browbeaten by their classmates for not wearing the latest trainers. Dumbledoreland simply cannot do without them. If the children don't like them, then hard cheese."
[Accept]

2. "Dude, your plan stinks," says Billy Utopia, leader of The Students Union. "Our clothing is part of who we are; it lets us express ourselves just by passing someone in the corridor. To say we must wear these inhibiting uniforms is an affront to our personal freedom! So back off with the uniforms, dude, students should be allowed to go to school dressed however they like. Or not dressed, if that's their style."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #13 - Supreme Court nomination

This was a difficult one - there are a couple I wouldn't pick, but there are a couple that sound o.k. to me. I went with the environmentalist because I'm curious to see what that would do, if anything, and also our civil rights are pretty good in Dumbledoreland.

The Issue

The death of 108 year old Supreme Court Justice Al Steele has created an opening on the bench. Below are the possible nominees.
The Debate

1. Pip Frederickson, the Former CEO of Dumbledoreland Products, says "I have long sat by and watched our government vicously attack the big businesses in this country. The government has no right to control businesses and I will adopt that position in all of my judgements."
[Accept]

2. Reverend Faith McGuffin is nominee #2. The Reverend says "I am sick and tired of the liberals in this country ruining our family values. Every day they assault our basic sense of decency. You must vote for me to keep our families safe. Think of the children!"
[Accept]

3. Gay Activist and former Senator Aaron Gutenberg is nominee #3. "Our people aren't happy, we need more freedom, we need more civil rights. We must keep the government out of the bedroom. We must respect peoples right to privacy and remember that personal relations are just that, personal."
[Accept]

4. Environmental Activist Pete O'Bannon argues, "Our government has been constantly violating Mother Earth and her rights, all our politicians talk about are civil rights, civil rights this, civil rights that, blah blah blah, we aren't important, what is important is the Earth!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

5. The last nominee is the retired Five Star General Jean-Paul Dodinas. "We are ridiculed throughout the international community for our low quality weaponry, our police and military numbers are not sufficient. Our military must be protected from both constitutional and civilian oversight. They should be given money, and a free hand."
[Accept]

6. Finally, a tomato flies by your head flung by an angry protester. "We want to elect our own judges! This is a democracy! More power to the people! We don't want a lapdog! Separation of Powers! Get the government out of the judicial system!" He chucks another tomato at you before security escorts him out of your private office.
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 4.

Nation States Game #12 - Tax on Churches?

The Issue

Secularists have been urging for the government to impose an income tax on religious organizations in Dumbledoreland for some time now, and the issue has finally made it's way to the upper levels of the government.
The Debate

1. Self-appointed civil rights spokesman Sue-Ann Hanover declares, "Churches are business organizations with a large income. It's unfair that they don't have to pay the same taxes that everyone else does. If they really do spend on any money on charity, let them write it off as a deduction just like corporations do. There's no reason that so-called clergy should be chauffeured around in limos tax-free, when we desperately need funds for public works."
[Accept]

2. "Freedom of conscience is foremost among liberties," says Reverend Abraham Jones. "Churches have been exempted from taxation because it is wrong for the government to infringe on the right of people to worship as they please, and that includes charging them for the right to worship. Besides, churches are non-profit organizations that put all their funds back into the community."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. The Honorable Johann Dodinas, Minister of Minding Other People's Business, has an idea: "This religion thing is such a great racket, why don't we make it a government monopoly? We'll ban all religions except the Church of Dumbledoreland, and make attendance and donations compulsory. I'll start writing the Holy Scriptures right away!"
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #11 - Speed Limits

I'm not sure how much longer I'm going to keep putting my issues onto my blog, but for now, I am. :-D

The Issue

After watching the movie 'The Fast and the Belligerent', boyracers from all over Dumbledoreland have been petitioning for the abolition of speed limits.
The Debate

1. "Today's cars are safer at high speeds than ever before," argues Akira Steele, editor of Sports Car Monthly. "And long-distance commuters are tired of spending hours on the road just to get to the next city. Abolishing the speed limit would be great for the economy too! People would be more likely to go out and buy cars if they thought they'd be able to use them properly. It seems like such a shame to be puttering along at the speed limit in a magnificent car like the 450HP twin-turbo House elf SX/T-7700 you know."
[Accept]

2. "Are you crazy?" cries Colin Wall, a road-accident victim. "We need lower speed limits on automobiles, not higher. You might as well enforce mandatory blindfolds on the road too, it'll come to the same conclusion! People's lives are at stake here! If people were made to drive at, say, no faster than fifty kilometres per hour, I would feel a lot happier walking the streets. Besides, if it takes a long time to get places via car then people might begin using mass transit for once."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. "I think the current speed limits are fine, but we need better enforcement," says Al Longbottom, the most feared traffic warden in Dumbledoreland. "If we required GPS tracking devices in all vehicles, we'd ticket every single speeder, no problem. In addition, we could monitor the movements of criminals and other suspicious individuals, and vastly reduce the risk of crime, terrorism, and other subversive activity. Some say that's an invasion of privacy, but if you've done nothing wrong what's there to fear?"
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

2nd Opinion

I went to go see the 2nd opinion doctor yesterday. And she did give me some hope, and boy, did I need some. The first ray of hope she gave me is that she thinks we should try IUI again, but this time with Letrozole (Femara). I'll all about spending $500 as opposed to $15,000. She said to try that once or twice, and if that doesn't work, then move on to IVF. She did say I have a 60% chance of it working based on my age, which is about what my current RE said (she said 50% with IVF - though she didn't recommend IUIs again).

The other ray of hope that she gave me is that she, from the laparascopy notes, doesn't think that my right fallopian is completely blocked, like I had thought. She said that there is an opening, but the reason the dye didn't come out is that there is a little bubble on the fallopian tube that the dye was collecting in. Once my current RE pressed on the bubble, the dye came out. So technically, she said, it isn't a typical blocked tube. Of course, that little bubble is probably causing problems with the egg getting where it needs to go to.

Also, I asked her about my low estrogen and told her that I was using herbal medicine that my acupuncturist gave me. She said that sometimes the herbal medicine, along with some fertility drugs, can cause estrogen levels to weaken. She suggested that I stop using the herbal medicine for a while and test again next cycle to see if the estrogen levels were still low. So I'm going to do that to see if it makes any difference. She also said that if I do end up doing an IUI or IVF that I should stop taking the herbal medicine anyway since they don't really know how the different drugs would interact with each other.

Well, I think that's about it. I'm trying to remember if there's anything else, but my brain isn't working properly and the person never called me back about a cab ride home, so I might as well stay at work now since I only have an hour left anyway.

Adoption & Infertility

Friday morning as my alarm went off, I heard a commercial on the radio that I never expected to hear. It was an ad for a fertility clinic, and they were promoting IVF. It was just so weird because I always hear the ads for Planned Parenthood or whatever that ask "are you pregnant and don't know what to do?" or "are you afraid that you're pregnant?" or whatever. I have never heard an ad "are you trying to get pregnant and it isn't working?" or "are you depressed each month that you aren't pregnant?" (Just so you know, this isn't the exact words - maybe not even close - but you get the gist.)

On Sunday morning, I was watching VH1 when a show came on called "DMC: My Adoption Journey". It was an interesting and sad and happy show. I first learned that DMC was adopted when he did a song with Sarah McLachlan called "Just Like You" (used music & lyrics from "Cats in the Cradle") and my sister sent me the link to the video - what a moving video! I couldn't find a link directly to the video, but you can find it on yahoo or msn or whatever if you were interested in seeing it (I found it by searching under the name of the song).

Update - March 16, 2006: As per a comment from my sister, the song is actually "Just Like Me" - I was writing this while running a fever.

Plays, Bowling, & Spokane, Oh My!

This past weekend I went over to Spokane. Paul was also going over this weekend, so he drove us there and bck.

We went over Friday morning and arrived around 2 or so. I had Paul drop me off at my sister's house. We hung out there for a while, then took the bus down to Rocky Rococco's for some dinner. My parents met us there, as well. After dinner, my parents and I went out to Central Valley High School with Kendall and Daniel to see Ryan in Peter Pan (he was playing one of the pirates). I really enjoyed the show - though in the beginning, Peter Pan's mike kept going in and out and was really distracting. I thought it was funny that so many people seemed amazed by the "flying" that some of characters do. It's as if people in Spokane don't realize that there is a wire helping the characters "fly". Anyway, it was a good show, and Ryan did a good job as a pirate. Kendall and Daniel also said that they enjoyed it.

Then on Saturday, Kendall, Daniel, Ryan and I went bowling at the bowling alley my dad works at. Everyone but me got strikes, and I still didn't break 100, but all of us had a good time.

Later that night, my parents and I went to go see Chad in Taming of the Shrew - he played Tranio/Lucentio. It was a good performance of this play (Jon and I had just seen this play last August for our anniversary, so the story was still fresh in my mind). As usual, Chad gave a good performance. Before the show, he even got to show off his juggling skills.

I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but he got his first professional acting job recently. It is a play called The Drawer Boy and he will be performing in that play at the Merc Playhouse in Twisp, WA this summer, so congrats to him!!! And just after I wrote this, I found out that he got another part in a play called Laughter on the 23rd Floor at Interplayers in Spokane.

That's about it - Sunday morning, I didn't really do much except watch some tv (which I'm going to talk about in another entry), and come back home. It is sooo nice to be home!!! Though now, I feel like complete crap and I'm stuck at work because I took the vanpool and the person in charge of getting cabs isn't at her desk! Needless to say, I cancelled my acupuncture appointment for tonight.

Nation States Game #10 - Term Limits

The Issue

Many people are starting to think that it's time to put term limits on elected officials, given the average age of 70 years old and 40 years of service in the nation's Parliament.
The Debate

1. "It's time to get these lifetime politicians off the government payroll!" says term-limits advocate Bill Hamilton. "Let them get real jobs like the rest of us once they leave office. Besides, if they are currently a Senator, they can always run for another office like Governor. This gives people the right to elect whomever they want to run for office, just not the same office forever. It'll keep things from going completely stale!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

2. "Wait a minute," says George W. Hanover, chairman of the national Infinite Power party. "We pay a lot of money to get those people into office. It can take several terms before we get a return on our investment, I mean, candidates. We should extend the number of years for each term, not limit the number of times a person can serve in any specific office!"
[Accept]

3. Your aunt's mother's step-sister's best friend's hairstylist, Peggy Mistletoe, pooh-poohs the entire idea. "You know how to run your country, yes? Why deal with the hassle of elected officials and elections in the first place, yes? Eliminate elections and this entire term limit issue becomes moot, yes?"
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Nation States Game # 9 - Punishment

he Issue

Recent studies showing that the sources of Dumbledoreland's most common street crimes (vandalism, muggings, joyriding, and witchcraft) are children under the age of criminal responsibility has prompted a national outcry for government action.
The Debate

1. "These damned hooligans are running wild on our streets!" splutters hard-nosed Sergeant Klaus Mombota of the police force. "My overworked officers can't cope anymore! Everywhere we look we're being surrounded by mobs of unruly children! I need you to give me and my officers the power to dish out punishment to these little hoodlums. I don't care how young these kids are - they need to learn to behave properly as soon as possible. Even if it requires a short jail sentence of ten years or so."
[Accept]

2. "The last thing we need is a police force that prosecutes, convicts, AND sentences young kids!" yells outraged Child Welfare Officer Chastity Broadside. "These youngsters are merely children being playful! Let them learn from their own mistakes! You can't tell me you weren't ever naughty when you were that young! Experience is the tree from which learning is a fruit, remember, and besides: the taxes needed to round them all up would be murder."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. "Hah! Yeh're lookin' at this the wrong way!" says Clint O'Bannon, an elderly pensioner, hobbling up to you and poking you in the chest with a walking stick. "When I was wee, and if I was caught breakin' the law, me dad would've beaten seven types of bahoola out of me! If a kid's gone maladjusted and started nickin' cars and whatnot, look at the parents and punish them for not bringin' the tiny scions up right! Yeh can't blame a kid for the environment they were raised in an' that's that!"
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #8 - Cold Calls

The Issue

A growing group of Dumbledoreland's citizens are battling for an end to unrequested solicitations from salesmen.
The Debate

1. "This has to stop," says mild-mannered parent Roxanne Mistletoe. "My family can't even have dinner without being interrupted at least five times by telemarketers or door-to-door salesmen! My privacy is being invaded! The government ought to ban all forms of unrequested solicitations from salespeople. The sanity of the populace is at stake here!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

2. "This must be a joke," retorts insurance sales solicitor Abraham Bush, in between cold calls. "Telemarketing and door-to-door sales are some of the most effective methods of increasing revenues. Banning them would be a huge blow to business, and put thousands of workers out of their jobs! Let's face the facts - Dumbledoreland needs an economy, and banning cold calls isn't the best of ways to improve it! One way you could improve it would be to, say, give us some government funds. For the sake of Dumbledoreland, of course."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Nation States Game #7 - Skateboarding

The Issue

The conservative Northern-based parents group of "Housewives and Convicts for a Safer Dumbledoreland" has put forward a memorandum to ban skateboarding in public.
The Debate

1. "Skateboarding is a menace to pedestrians and road users," says activist Akira Mistletoe. "Not to mention the astronomical number of skateboarding-related injuries - hundreds of children flood the emergency rooms of Dumbledoreland as a result of skateboarding every year, which is costly to the taxpayers. Keep our streets safe and save a little cash at the same time. Hell, you could make even more money by ticketing those who violate this law."
[Accept]

2. "Ticketing children for getting out of the house and exercising?" asks Clint Love, a school teacher, in disbelief. "That's outrageous! It's true that skateboarding can be dangerous but so is walking down the stairs! You want to ban that too?! What we should do is pass laws requiring safety equipment for skaters - if we allocate a little bit of the tax payers' money to the cause, we can build a skate park that will keep our children safe and away from others on the road too."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

3. "Yo, dude, I've got a better idea," says Zeke Longfellow while executing a complicated 360° spin over your head. "What if skateboarding was the only way to get around? Wouldn't that be cool? Skateboarding is cheap, healthy, and fun! Everyone should do it! You could improve, like, the quality of life for everyone by banning vehicles and making skateboarding the only legal way to travel. People'd love you for it, man. Well, apart from the guys who make cars and the like, I guess."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #6 - Cannibalism

The Issue

A coalition of tribalists, health experts, and civil rights proponents have recently suggested legalizing cannibalism for consumers of willing would-be meals.
The Debate

1. "I see absolutely no problem with people digging into each other at dinnertime, so long as everyone is willing," Samuel Johnson, the editor of the monthly magazine 'To Serve Man', quips, "Not only does it solve hunger problems and create jobs, but it also adds variety to Dumbledoreland's sometimes dull palette."
[Accept]

2. Civil rights leader Johann Jong-Il came out publicly for moderate pro-cannibalism legislation, commenting, "While it may strike some as a crude, even evil practice, our ancestors have practiced cannibalism for years. If we create a government organization to strictly regulate and grade all human meat prior to its arrival on the market, we can ensure that respect for diversity is maintained while health concerns are also allayed. And instead of killing average people, why not make being turned into snack foods a post-mortem option? Like donating your body to science!"
[Accept]

3. "You're all absolutely out of your minds!" exclaims Naki Shiomi, head of Dumbledoreland's largest health-food manufacturer. "It's immoral, it's unhealthy, and it's disgusting. Not only are these so-called 'dietary rights' activists leading us down a dark path of sin, but right into a marketplace with yet another product that's almost as bad as beef!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

The Government Position

Low Estrogen

I was just looking at signs and symptoms of low estrogen levels, and I now know a possible reason for why my short term memory has been rather bad lately and why I feel so tired all the time. I feel so exhausted right now. I could fall asleep right now if I wasn't at work. Low estrogen levels can also increase the chances of depression. And, of course, this article didn't make me feel that great!

It's also interesting that this article mentions that low estrogen can cause inflammation of the gums. Inflammation of my gums is the reason the dentist wants me coming back every 4 months.

Hopefully, when I go back to the RE on Day 3 of my next cycle, she will have some idea on what to do to increase my estrogen levels and that will help with the symptoms I mentioned above.

Nation States Game #5 - Street Racing

The Issue
Illegal street racing and racing-related injuries are on the rise, causing many infamous racers to begin rallying for an officially sanctioned racing series and track facilities in order to safely satisfy their need for speed.

The Debate
"If you don't let us race on real racetracks, then we'll just keep running on the roads at night!" says racing fans' favorite Jean-Paul Jefferson, at the wheel of a tricked-out Honda. "Would it kill you guys to build a couple of nice big race facilities? Think of the money you'd make on charging admission and selling drinks and stuff! And it'd be a lot safer than all of us tearing around on public roads! Forget about the people griping about the noise pollution!"
[Accept]

"Don't tell me you plan to cater to these speed freaks!" police officer Beth Wall comments over coffee and donuts. "Encouraging this sport is only going to increase the street racing problem because all these punks who can't afford to run the professional circuit are going to want to satisfy their lead feet the way they have been! What we need is more police funding to crack down on these punk hotrodders."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government is preparing to dismiss this issue.

Nation States Game #4 - Child Labor

The Issue
A controversial newspaper investigation reveals that as many as 30% of all children are employed in a dangerous environment.

The Debate
Prudence Silk, an orphanage foster parent, says, "Child labor should be outlawed! Too many times I have received children who only know manual labor. We have to give these children an education and a chance at a real future. Think of the children!" Al Li, a bum on the street, agrees, "Forget about what's best for the children. They're stealing my work! The only way to get an entry job in this market is to either be younger than 12 and willing to work for nothing, or to knock off a kid and be there to fill the opening, and still be willing to work for nothing."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

Unemployed parent May Nagasawa begs that you keep child labor legal. "You can't outlaw child labor; we need the extra money that my 13 children earn. Since both my spouse and I were laid off, the only way to get enough money to feed both of us is to have all of our kids employed. In fact, with the downswing in the economy we're expecting another kid to close the gap."
[Accept]

Fat cat factory owner Freddy Wall steps over the bum in the street and explains, "You don't understand. You shouldn't make child labor illegal, you should subsidize it. By employing these kids I'm giving them valuable life lessons. I didn't go to school and see where I am now? I'm giving them work experience, making them highly employable for the 15 years of their expected lives."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 1.

Nation States Game #3 - Big Brother Watching You

The Issue
The Police department is considering installing surveillance cameras in all major public areas, in an effort to crack down on crime.

The Debate
"This is a blatant invasion of the right to privacy!" says libertarian web site operator Naki Utopia. "Now I can't even go out in public any more without being watched? And you know this is just the beginning. Today there are cameras in city streets. Tomorrow they're peering through your bedroom window."
[Accept]

"Hey, I've got news for you," says Police media liaison Tobias McAlpin. "When you're out in public, PEOPLE CAN SEE YOU. These cameras will be extremely helpful in reducing the national crime rate. Frankly, I can't see what the fuss is about."

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"This 'slippery slope' argument has got me thinking," says Police Minister Anne-Marie Nagasawa. "You know, it would be a lot easier to fight crime if we watched people all the time. Not with cameras, of course. That's clearly an invasion of privacy. But how about a national database of our citizens, coupled with compulsory ID cards and barcoding? It would stop crime dead in its tracks."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Nation States Game #2 - Free Press?

The Issue
Citizens, politicians, and businessmen have been campaigning for the government to keep a tighter rein on the media after several well-respected newspapers printed false articles with contents ranging from claims that the capital city had been stolen by a UFO to erroneous share prices which led to job-losses and a stock market decline.

The Debate
"Over a thousand jobs lost!" clamours Klaus Chicago, angry protester and ex-employee of Dreddmax Incorporated. "And why? Because the press isn't concerned about the truth anymore; all it wants is higher sales! We must forbid these rags from lying to the people and dish out heavy fines to those who try! This so-called 'free press' has a dark side, you know. We learnt that ever since we discovered it wasn't cottage cheese they were mining up north!"
[Accept]

"This is censorship!" says Roxanne Jefferson, editor-in-chief of The Hebdomadal Gabfest while carefully noting everything you say in a notepad. "We speak for the people! Admittedly some newspapers didn't check all of their facts before they published, but that doesn't merit such draconian measures at all! If we're only allowed to print the absolute truth then how soon before we're getting constantly sued by politicians for libel? What about our rumour columns? It'll totally destroy the business! The government must have no part in repression of the media!"

This is the position your government is preparing to adopt.

"You know that no matter what we decide we're going to make people mad," points out Colin Longbottom, your Minister of Public Relations. "But the best way to control public opinion is to tell the public what their opinions are. I suggest nationalising all the newspapers and putting them under government control. Then we can tell them whatever we like! After all, we're much more trustworthy than some profit-driven media moguls, right? At least we won't have to issue ANOTHER public statement to tell everyone you're not a hyper-intelligent aubergine."
[Accept]

The Government Position

The government has indicated its intention to follow the recommendations of Option 2.

Issues on Nation States game #1

I thought I would start writing down which issues have come up while playing the Nation States game. To start off with, I'll list the issues that have come up for me and how I've decided (at least those I remember - and I may not remember the exact question or answer)...

1) Voting - Should it be Mandatory or Voluntary?

I decided that voting should be voluntary.

2) Uranium Mining - Should it be allowed completely, just some or not at all?

I decided that just a little bit would be allowed. Apparently, that decision has led to widespread deforestation and to the house elves to be on the brink of extinction.

3) Nudity - should it be allowed, mandatory or not allowed at all?

I decided that I would allow some nudity.

4) Taxes - I can't remember the exact issue, but I think I said that taxes should be higher for the rich.

5) Harry Potter - should it be banned or not?

I decided that Harry Potter should be banned.

6) Cash for Organs - Should it be allowed or not?

I decided that organs should not be allowed to be sold.

7) Cloning - should it be allowed?

I decided that cloning should be allowed.

8) Marijuana Consumption - should be people be allowed to smoke it at work, in their homes, or at all?

I decided that people can smoke marijuana, just not at work.

9) Religious Leader

I voted for the new age guy because people should be allowed to choose their own religion and not have their goverment choose one religion over another.

10) Marriage - Should divorce be outlawed? Should gay marriage be allowed?

I decided to allow gay marriage, but not to make divorce illegal.

11) What is more important - health care and social welfare or education?

I believe I chose to put more money into health care and social welfare since at the time I made the decision, the people of Dumbledoreland weren't doing very well.

12) Nazi Parade or something like that - should it be allowed?

Dumbledoreland is all for free speech even of things that the people might not like.

13) Roads - Should the potholes be fixed by the government?

I chose to make sure the potholes were being fixed.

14) Bicycles - there was a question about bicycles, but I can't remember what it was or what my answer was.

I'm sure there are others. I just don't remember them right now.

What Dave Matthews Band song are you?

Of course, I had to take this quiz (and of course, I'm listening to the song now).

#41

What Dave Matthews Band Song Are You (Results Contain Pictures)?
brought to you by Quizilla

Pretty

Go here, and scroll on bottom for a 360 of Paris at night...

Random Stuff

1) For the past few days, my neck has been bothering me - I jokingly blamed it on one of the vanpool drivers who likes to slam on the brakes for no apparent reason. It was getting better until...

2) This morning, my vanpool got into a car accident (it was not the driver I mentioned above that was driving). Someone rearended us on I-90. The sun was quite blinding this morning. Several people braked in front of us, so we did too, then we hear someone behind us skidding on the road and just a couple seconds later hit us. No one was hurt (well, except my neck hurts again) and the van was fine. I'm not sure about the other car because it didn't pull over to stop! The driver of the car just continued going. Luckily, all of us got the license plate and the make the car. An exciting commute this morning!

3) Last night, instead of exercising like I should, Jon and I went to go see Ally sing at an internet cafe for open mike night. I felt so out of place there - it seemed like we were so old compared to everyone else there (mostly teenagers). I do plan to exercise tonight (hopefully, the sun stays out)!

4) Yesterday, I went in for a cleaning at the dentist office and it sucked. I swear it is just like torture. My teeth still hurt.

5) This past weekend on Sunday, a few of us walked around Greenlake and made a little detour over to Woodland Park to look at the bunnies. I think we counted about 16 bunnies. They are so cute! They quickly went into their hiding spots as soon as a dog came around. It's sad that people leave their bunnies there. :-( The organization that is picking the bunnies up is in need of donations...

What I Learned Yesterday...

I learned that a major corporation in the Seattle area offers infertility treatment insurance coverage (including IUI and IVF) to its employees and another is considering adding such coverage. I either a) need to go work for either one of these companies; b) get my own company to have such coverage; or c) just continue to save $$$ until I can pay for it myself.

I think my stress level would go way down though if I knew insurance would cover some or all of this treatment.