Example Number 23,457,283 of the Ridiculously Litigous Society We Live In: A high school student is suing his school for giving him homework over summer break.

2-4-6-8: Who do we appreciate?! The Pat, the Pats, YEAH Pats! Just my personal cheer for the football goddesses for a Pats win on Sunday. After all, I need to host my Super Bowl party for the World Champion Pats again this year! Gooooooooooo Pats!

Beware of the Gay Sponge: Who would have known? Appartently Sponge Bob Squarepants is not only bringing silly joy to kids and exploring the world with his little friends, he also is part of the gay agenda! What a multi-taking guy! Unfortunately, I never cease to be surprised that there are people in this world who think tolerance is a bad value. It both surprises and sickens me too often than it should.

Beware of the Gay Sponge: Who would have known? Appartently Sponge Bob Squarepants is not only bringing silly joy to kids and exploring the world with his little friends, he also is part of the gay agenda! What a multi-taking guy! Unfortunately, I never cease to be surprised that there are people in this world who think tolerance is a bad value. It both surprises and sickens me too often than it should.

Four (Tear) More (Sob) Years: Another installment from Jib Jab. He he!

Where’s the Sun?: I returned from a fabulous trip to Arizona last night…leaving not a cloud in the sky and mid-70s to come to gray wind chill advisory 7! Insane! I got to Phoenix a day last, as my flight from Boston to Houston was delayed *9* hours. I got to a cheap Holiday Inn in Houston around midnight, slept for about 5 hours, went to the airport, and arrived in sunny Arizona at around 11:00 a.m. (They flew me first class from Houston to AZ, which was nice.) Eva and I went to a little bread/coffee place called Wildflower Bread Company for a yummy lunch and then we drove around Phoenix/Tempe a bit. I have never been to the Southwest before and it was absolutely spectacular. Because it is in a valley, every time we turned the car, we were facing beautiful mountains. I think I drove Eva crazy because I couldn’t stop remarking about how beautiful it was. We had dinner at a Thai restaurant called Pink Pepper and made it a pretty early night. The next day we went down to Tucson, where were went to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. (We had breakfast at Wildflower, where I had a delicious frittata with roasted veggies and feta!) The Desert Museum is part gardens and part zoo of desert animals. Eva is unbelievably knowledgeable about horticulture, especially desert plants. It was fun to tour with an expert! (Plus it was another perfect day, so I enjoyed strolling around outside.) We had lunch in Tucson at El Charro, which as probably my favorite meal of the trip. (Although it is hard to choose…we ate WELL!) After walking around Tucson, we drove back up to Phoenix, with a stop for Blizzards at DQ. (Reese’s and Oreo for me!) We caught most of the Golden Globes and hit the hay. Monday we went to the Desert Botanical Gardens (beautiful!!) and had lunch at Crazy Jim’s (Greek food) Eva drove me around Phoenix, where I saw where she works (the Department of Transportation…hence her being a great tour guide) and saw the baseball stadium etc. Dinner was at China Max Seafood Restaurant. I begrudgingly went to the airport yesterday morning, where I flew first class from Phoenix to Boston, via Cleveland. Em picked me up at the airport, and very sweetly brought me a fleece to pull over my legs as we drove home in the Arctic conditions. When can I go back????

Off I Go: I am going to Arizona today! I am going to be visiting a good frined from Macalester, Eva (aka Major Mocha). I have never been to the Southwest and very excited! Eva lives in Tempe, but we will go on a little side trip to Tucson I think. Plus, I fly back first class. Ooooooo!

Two of the Funniest MIT Alumni: Yup! Click and Clack, aka Tom and Ray Magliozzi, went to MIT. A fun little article about them in today's Globe...."What gets listeners most upset is wondering if the guys get the answers in advance," says "Car Talk" executive producer Doug Berman during a recent Tuesday morning production meeting. "And what the guys say to that is, 'If we did, would we be as wrong as often as we are?' "

Timely Follow Up: Star of Wicked falls through trap door.

Sex, High School and Friends: (got your attention, right?) Tonight Emily and I are going to Curves, to grab take out from Amelia's (my new favorite food is their chicken spinich panini) and going to see Kinsey. A high school aquaintance, Michelle Federer, is in the movie with a small role. MUCH more impressively, she is one of the leads in the Broadway play Wicked. She is getting fabulous reviews.

Weekend In Review: A fun, movie-filled weekend. Friday I went over to Amy and Mandy's where we had Ladies Movie Night In...talked a lot, ate some yummy treats (including english muffin pizzas) and saw Eat, Drink, Man, Woman. Saturday (nasty weather all day!) I went to Curves, did some things around the house, ran some errands, and then met up with my brother for dinner at Fajita-n-Ritas and the movie Aviator (B+). Sunday I went over to Amy and Jose's (it was a 2 Amy weekend) and hung out with them and their ADORABLE boys! Good weekend overall.

Baseball News: It will be interesting how THIS plays out...pun intended.

Special Events Friday Five: Seeing as how I am in the midst of planning the Women's Leadership Conference, and all I am seem to be thinking about are events and speakers, I thought I would use that as the theme of today's Friday Five. (Not only is the Women's Event in April, but I am in the midst of planning events in LA and San Diego in February and London in March.)
Who is the most famous person you have ever hear speak in person? I suppose if depend who you are asking in terms of famous-ness, but I have seen Walter Mondale, Jimmy Carter, Oprah Winfrey, Mr. T and Kofi Annan speak.
What is the largest audience you have ever addressed? Actually probably the group that came to honor my grandmother when she received a special award for service. I think there were about 300 people there.
What is the fanciest event you have ever attended? The black tie benefit for The Health Museum of Cleveland (I was working there at the time, but was allowed to attend, as opposed to staff it.) However, some of these cushie dinners and events I have gone to at hotels are running a close second.
How many weddings did you attend this year? Actually none. It seems like many of my friends go to far more wedding than me...which is certainly good for my pocketbook, if not my dance card.
Would you attend the presidential inauguration if invited? I don't think so, but I think I would be tempted, just to say I went.

Sometimes I Really Like a Copy Cat: Serveral airlines, including my fave American, have slashed their prices to compete with Delta, who just lowered its fares SIGNIFICANTLY. Yeah!

The Epidemic Touches Anyone/Everyone: South Africa's Nelson Mandela, one of Africa's most committed campaigners in the battle against AIDS, announced that his only surviving son had succumbed to the disease Thursday.

But I Should Be in BETTER Shape: Appartently I moved from the 24th fittest city (Cleveland) to the 11th fittest city (Boston). So why have I gained 5 pounds since I moved??? So close but yet so far, NYC is the 8th fattest city.

A Dumb (and Litigious) Society: A toilet brush with a tag that says "Do not use for personal hygiene" has taken top prize for the wackiest consumer warning label of the year, according to an anti-lawsuit group. Other highlights include: A digital thermometer with the advice "Once used rectally, the thermometer should not be used orally." and A scooter with the warning "This product moves when used." Perhaps they should simply write "If you are too dumb to use this properly, don't."

Year In Review Friday Five (Part 3): A day early...
1. What was your favorite film of this year? Garden State. I felt like I was watching someone's life, not actors.
2. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you? Em organized a fabulous Ladies Night Out at Cuchi Cuchi and then decadent sundaes at Tosconini's. We wore little black dresses, Em made us all flower broaches, we had tapas and sangria, and I felt like a very loved, but not as sexed, member of Sex in the City. I turned 31.
3. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2004? Same as always, very simple. Not sloppy but not accessorized or complicated. Solid tops, solid bottoms, often jeans and a black shirt.
4. What kept you sane in 2004? A couple close friends...ice cream...and plenty of sleep.
5. What political issue stirred you the most? Gay marriage. I am embarrassed that we even need to discuss whether same sex couples should be able to marry. Next we will go back to debating whether we should have inter-racial marriage and if we should let our women vote.

Christmas Year-Round: It was recently announced (at least news to me) that "they" are building a Christmas Tree Shop right down the street from my house. They are supposed to also be maybe be putting an IKEA (!!!!) but that is still not for certain...and I don't know if it ever will.

Lennie Died: Jerry Orbach, from Law & Order died yesterday. I think I saw every L&A that has aired, and thought of Lennie as an almost-real person. So sad.

Surpressed Memory: Driving home from work yesterday I was gently hitting the brakes at a stop light, when I realized that I have a recurring dream that I am trying to hit the brakes to stop (and avoid hitting someone/thing) and I just can't press hard enough to make the car stop. I slow down, but still end up hitting whatever is in front of me. Of course I know where this comes from but it is odd that I now realize that I have been having this dream for many years, and just now remembered...when there was not much that prompted the memory. Perhaps its because I have been driving on some minor snow, which often makes me nervous. Anyhow, interesting how the mind works.

Year in Review II Friday Five on Thursday: (Since I won't be in the office tomorrow, thought I get a head start)
1. What was your biggest achievement of the year? Finishing the 20 mile Walk for Hunger
2. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed? George W. Bush and his posse
3. Where did most of your money go? My house...mortgage, heat (in an uninsulated, 100 year old house) and fun things to put into my house
4. What was your favorite TV program? NYPD Blue. But I also missed basically no episodes of Survivor, CSI, CSI: Miami, Crossing Jordan, and Cold Case.
5. What kept you sane? Having friends and family that support me 100%, unconditionally, unfalteringly, and with laughter. Oh, and getting 9 hours of sleep almost every night.

My Big Conference: I am planning the first-ever Women's Leadership Conference for MIT. It will be happening on the weekend of April 30th. Since the web site for the event is startign to take shape, I thought I'd share it with you, my readers.

Kim Celebrates Christmas: Yesterday I participated, for the fifth time, in Christmas in the City, an annual extravaganza for Boston-area families who are homeless or otherwise disenfranchised. It is an absolutely exhausting day, filled with kids, laughter, complaints, SantaS, chicken nuggets, TOYS, face paint, and undercooked pizza. Each year I expend all of my energy, and then some, in helping these kids celebrate the holidays...many of whom would have little to no holiday otherwise. It is an amazing experience. Thanks to Emily for once again serving as our fearless Shelter Captain! I may even be a Shelter Captain next year. Who wants to join me???

Pay Up: Remember those MasterCard commercials about what we would give up if the Sox won the World Series? Apparently they heard up and it is time to pay up. Ooops! I can't post the movie on the blog (files won't work) but send me a note in the comment section and I email it to you. Very funny!

Friday Five Year in Review (Part One): Thanks to a list of questions I found about the year in review, I bring back the Friday Five for at least the next few weeks.
1. What did you do in 2004 that you'd never done before? Repelled and went on a zip line in a rainforest and went whitewater rafting.
2. What would you like to have in 2005 that you lacked in 2004? A serious relationship.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth? Yes, Chip and Abby had Rebecca!
4. Did anyone close to you die? No. But I went to two funerals, one for Paul's uncle and one for Jamie's Mom.
5. What countries did you visit? Mexico, Costa Rica, Israel. A very blessed year. Next year I will go to England and Germany at least.

Lightning Strikes Twice: Last week I reported that I saw a cab drive several miles with a coffee cup on the roof of the car. Last night as I was driving home, I was next to another cab that not only had a coffee cup on the roof, but it was sitting precariously on the slanted part of the front roof...just hanging out. Are they installing sticky stuff on the bottom of Dunkin Donuts cups these days? Is this a new way to cool your coffee? How odd!

L'chaim! Secret Rabbi Revealed: After being sent on a scavenger hunt to find out the identify of my Secret Rabbi, I discovered it was none other than...ELENA, my trusty assistant! (I also got another fancy ring...this time its beaded) I found out she even called my Mom to see about sending some things to Cleveland for when I was home last weekend. She is unbelievable! And thankfully she is as awesome of an employee as she is a friend and Secret Rabbi.

Blessed by a Secret Rabbi- The Secret Rabbi of whom I spoke last week, has provided me with a silly, suspenseful, and playful Hanukkah this year. Gifts included: five white roses, Forbidden Fruit Apple Candy, Shalom: The Chosen Gum ("Oy, that's good gum...Would it kill you to buy two?"), a sparkley ring (wearing it for the last 2 days), a "Damn It" button for my computer keyboard (or car), a Smurfette figurine, and lots of gelt. I hope he/she revels them self to me at some point....

A preview of my pictures from Israel...me floating in the Dead Sea. 

The sweet, lovely, adorable, and amazing Rebecca. 

Fun New Site to Explore: Thanks to the Globe for telling me about this new site...well, new to Boston...we are the 5th city added.

Fun Visit to Cleveburg- I got home last night from a fast, but fun, weekend in Cleveland. I got to see Rebecca TWICE (pictures posted soon), saw Arin once alone for brunch and then rendez vous'ed again the next day to have brunch with her and Jon G., had dinner with mom, dad, Kev and Nismans, went to see Ocean's Twelve with Kathy, Tom and Emily (B+), and did a bit of shopping.

Going to See Rebecca (and others)- I am leaving for Cleveland tonght to go to see Rebecca, Chip and Abbey's baby. So excited! I will also of course see other frieeds and family, but this is my Rebecca Trip, scheduled since before she was born in September. Look for pictures when I return...in the meantime, check out these. (I think I am responsible for most of the hits to the page...)

Inspiring Words: This quote was included on a solicitation to the MIT community to raise money for a graduate fellowship in honor of outgoing President Chuck Vest. I found it to be quite impressive. “Ponder the unthinkable. Question the status quo. Live in the world as well as in your own nation. Dream of a better future, but contribute to the present. Share your talents. Commune with all people. Be steady friends and bold companions. Address the truly important issues of your times. Be honest in all that you do. Take your education, your talent, and your energy, and build a nation and a world community that consider knowledge a gift to be shared, a healthy planet a place to be cherished, and human dignity and opportunity fundamental conditions to be enjoyed by all people.”

Secret Rabbi Hits Again: I just went to my inter-office mailbox to find a HUGE bag of Hanukkah geldt (chocolate)! This time there was no note, but the handwriting was different than the note with the flowers from yesterday. The name above mine on the envelope (the only other name) was a professor at the business school. Someone is being very sly! I just went around to my entire office and gave them candy, so that I could spread the Hanukkah joy, and perhaps tell my Secret Rabbi how pleased I am. Very interesting...

Camp: Last night's trip to the theater to see Johnny Guitar was funny, tune-ful, and highly amusing. Em and I were giggling outloud throughout the show, not to mention singing a single line of the title song over and over again. Now we have to see the silly Joan Crawford movie that the musical is based on.

Giggle giggle: I came into my office this morning to find five beautiful white roses, with a note saying "Happy Hanukkah from your Secret Rabbi" I can most likely narrow it down to a few people at work, but I don't recognize the handwriting as being any of theirs. So if he or she is reading this...thanks...you made my day!

Going to the Theatre: Em and I go to the next play in our subscription to the SpeakEasy Stage Company tonight. It is described as, "Based on the 1954 cult classic film that starred Joan Crawford, Johnny Guitar: The Musical uses a mix of 50's rock, doo-wop and steamy Southwestern ballads to tell the story of a feud that erupts between a sultry saloonkeeper and a jealous tycoon over the control of a small western town." My review will be in tomorrow.

Calories for a Month: Once again I was invited to an all our gourge-fest for MIT event planners. On the menu of today's lunch (hosted by The Hotel@MIT) was:
Open bar including hard liquor (I had one of the 4 red wines they were offering)
Cheese, grapes and cracker display (I passed)
Swordfish with a kidney bean sauce (interesting...)
Green beans and carrots in a garlic saute
Mashed potatoes
Pumpkin ravioli in a creamy ginger sauce (the best thing there!!!)
Carved whole turkey
Sausage and mushroom stuffing (No thanks)
Raw veggies with 2 dips
Squash bisque (not my fave)
A variety of rolls
A champagne toast
A desert buffet with about 30 different desserts (like cakes and pies...not just cookies)

My tummy is now a witch's brew...with all the food, the wine, the champage, the dessert....thank goodness my assistant had Tums!

Festival of Lights Diddy: In honor of tonight being the first night of Chanukah, I bring you a special song by Adam Sandler. Hit it, Adam!

Two Is More Than One: Two great things happened on this day in history, and only one bad. My mom and Shelby were born today, and Pearl Harbor was bombed. I think we all came out ahead. (My apologies to those of you who were more profoundly affected by the later.) Happy birthday Ma and Shleb!

Free Ride to Work: Driving into work today, I saw a cup of Starbucks coffee getting a free ride to work. Clearly the person inside the cab, or the person who had recently gotten out of the cab, left their cup of coffee on the roof of the taxi. I drove almost the entire way to work watching the cup just sit there...never falling off...never sliding...just enjoying the scenery.

My New Hometown Spanked My Old Hometown: The Patriots *killed* the Browns yesterday. But I suppose I should give them leniency, since they were in the first week of a new QB and new coach...and they *were* playing the infallible Pats.

Ms. Handywoman: I am so proud of myself (easily done admittedly). I took the old, ugly fan/light fixture in my kitchen and transformed it into a new looking, beautiful fixture over the weekend. I bought new light fixtures, primed the blades of the fan, spray painted the whole fixture, and it looks brand new! (Note to self, use a mask next time you spray paint...my nose hairs turned white, which makes me worry what my lungs looked like) Anyhow, I am quite pleased with myself.

Another Tragedy for GLB People in the Church: A woman is CONVICTED of being a lesbian minister.

Who Would've Known: Federally funded abstinence education programs that are used in 25 states contain false and misleading information about contraception, abortion and sexually transmitted diseases, said Rep. Henry Waxman...In another instance, the Why kNOw curriculum asserts "twenty-four chromosomes from the mother and twenty-four chromosomes from the father join to create this new individual," the report said. The correct number is 23 each. Some curriculums also rely on what Waxman called damaging stereotypes about boys and girls, including that girls care less about achievement and their futures. The Why kNOw curriculum teaches: "Women gauge their happiness and judge their success by their relationships. Men's happiness and success hinge on their accomplishments."

Somerville and Israel: Ironically, I first heard of this story when I was in Israel. My aunt was reading the Jerusalem Journal and told me that "some city in MA called Summerville" was trying to divest from Israel. She had no idea that this is where I live. Apparently it is a small group of people in Somerville who are trying to push this forward, and the outcry AGAINST it is what is really what is newsworthy.

New Blog: My cousin Adam has created a blog, whose link you will now find in the toolbar to the right. He is a stand-up comic in NYC (among other things) and his witty (and random) musing are definitely worth a view.

She's Got Sauce: Emily and I almost went to the new restaurant Sauce in Davis Square on Tuesday night, but ended up at Amelia's Trotteria, where I had never been but LOVED. After reading this review, we definitely will have to go some time, perhaps with a larger group to share the tapas.

Hilary Must Be Thrilled: Apparently NBC and CBS are refusing to air an ad from the United Church of Christ because the spot, intended to make the point that the Protestant denomination is welcoming, briefly shows two men who are holding hands being turned away from an unnamed church. The UCC's policy of open and affirming congregations is part of what brought Hilary to their ministry (I think). (Not to mention that Shelby's dad is a UCC minister too.) If only the religious world had more ministers like Hilary and Randy.

I'm Back: So, since I wrote last, I have been to Seattle, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Israel. Sorry for the lack of postings...I am sure there are at least 4 people who noticed my absence. Anyhow, back to the regularly scheduled program.

Leavin' on a Jet Plane: Sorry I have been a stranger...I leave tomorrow morning for a tri-city West Coast trip...Seattle, Los Angeles and San Diego. Wish me luck on all my events... Till we meet again. Oh, and VOTE KERRY!

Comment on photo below...this man is FOR Kerry, don't you think? The more I thought about it, the less I was sure.

This says it all! (Well, not really...I'll post more about the AWESOME, but cold, parade soon.) In the meantime, VOTE KERRY! 

Break the Curse Cookies: My very thoughtful (and highly skilled) assistant Elena brought me a Break the Curse cookie today. On the packaging it directed me to a website, where not only did I learn about the cookies (which are made by a wonderful, socially responsibile company here in Boston, whose cookies I adore!) but there are also ideas on "Random Nice Things" to do...one is even to do something nice to a New Yorker...now come on!!!

Another Reason I May Move to Canada: A judge threw a party complete with balloons, streamers and a cake to welcome a former fugitive back to her court -- and sentence him to life in prison.

Laughing Too Hard to Type: If you haven't already done so (I'm a bit behind the times) you should check out the most recent installment from our frineds at Jibjab entitled "Good to Be In DC! Giggle giggle!

With the Red Sox in the World Series, and the Patriots having the longest winning streak in history, I figure it is fitting to have a Sports Friday Five:
- What is your favorite sport to watch on tv? Football! Love it! In person I find it too hard to figure out who is carrying the ball, and seeing what the penalties are, but on TV the camera oh so conveniently helps me out. It is embarrassing at times how loud and crazy I get when I am sitting at home alone watching the Pats.
- What is your favorite sport to watch in person? Minor league baseball, preferable the Lowell Spinners. Em and I got hooked three years ago and I have gone to at least 4 games each year since. The erratic (somewhat Bad News Bears-esqe) plays, the insane between innings shenanigans, and really cheap food, parking and tickets, what more could you ask for!
- What sport to you most like to play? Dumb question for me to propose since I don't like to play sports at all. I "play" (word used VERY loosely) on the work softball team, but let's just say we won 2 games this year, which beat last year's record. Not to mention, I am more fond of the First Base Dance I created (and have actually had cause to do a couple of times this year) than actually playing the game. But I am a damn good cheerleader and a wonderful beer drinker afterwards.
- If you could be really good at any sport, which would it be? Boy, I am so much not an athlete that this is almost hard to answer....probably tennis, since you can do it in lots of places, you don't need to pull together a team, and if you are really good you can look like a superstar.
- Who will find the World Series? The Red Sox in six games. (knocking on wood as we speak...or type!)

Miracles Do Happen: As stated in the New York Times, "It was actually happening. The nerd was kissing the homecoming queen. Paper was beating scissors; scissors were beating rock. Charlie Brown was kicking the football. The Red Sox were beating the Yankees for the American League pennant." God damn I better rest up the next two nights in preparation for Saturday night (and as recovery for the last month!)

And Rebecca Clarie xxx one week old in daddy's arms. If you want to see all my pictures, send me a note in the comment section. 

As long as I am posting photos, here is one of me, Hilary and Steve at an orchard last month. 

The ladies and I celebrated my birthday a day early...Sex in the City style. So much fun! 

YEAH RED SOX: Two, four, six, eight, who do we appreicate? Ortiz, Ortitz, Daaaaavid Ortiz! Go Sox! (Sorry MM, but you're going down!)

It's Cool To Be From Ohio: My classmate Jeremy Kahn, managing editor of The New Republic, wrote an article about how it is now cool to be from Ohio, a/the privitol swing state. I was particularly amused by this part, "Attending college on the East Coast, I found that many of my classmates--experts on the subtle class distinctions between Long Island towns and able to exchange knowing nods at the mention of certain New Jersey Turnpike exits--seemed only dimly aware of where Ohio was. "It borders Illinois, right?" Well, no. And there were frequent mix-ups about my hometown. "You're from Cincinnati right? No, wait, don't tell me. Columbus." Cleveland. I'm from Cleveland."

With A Grain of Salt: I don't put too much stock in polling results, especially when things are so close, and especially after how it turned out four years ago, but this week, for the first time since July 18, the CNN polls show Kerry leading Bush (49% to 48%).

Travel Friday Five: Since I have been traveling so much in the last few months (Ohio, Nevada/California, Connecticut) and will be traveling so much in the coming months (Washington, California, Israel, Ohio, Arizona, London) I thought I would use this theme...
- When was the last time you were on a plane? Coming back from Cleveland last Sunday night.
- When was the last time you were on a train? (for travel) I think it was when I went on my East Coast trip before I went to grad school-- to NYC, Boston and Vermont.
- How far will you travel this weekend? Thankfully, I think the farthest point will be Emily and Nat's house in Watertown, to watch the Red Sox on Saturday.
- What is your favorite mode of travel? In terms of getting me from one place to the other, probably a cruise ship. Of course, not always so feasible, but fun none the less.
- What is your least favorite part of traveling? How much it hurts my back.

Fuel to the Fire (aka Preaching the the Choir...I hope):
BUSH SAID: "He [Kerry] voted to increase taxes 98 times."
REALITY: Attack Debunked as "Dubious Claim," "Wrongly Claimed," "Iffy," "Misleading," "Exaggeration," "Padded," "Baffling," "Questionable," and "Inflated" are just some of the phrases newspapers and independent analysts have used to describe this bogus charge. The truth? Kerry has gone on the legislative record over 640 times for lower taxes.

BUSH SAID: "Most of the tax cuts went to low and middle income Americans, and now the tax code is more fair, 20 percent of the upper income people pay about 80 percent of the taxes in America today because of how we structured the tax cuts."- GWB, 10/13/04
REALITY: In 2004, Top One Percent Will Receive Average Tax Cut Of $35,000; Middle Class Will Receive Average Tax Cut Of $647. The benefits of Bush's tax cuts primarily benefit the rich. The top one percent of households will receive tax cuts averaging almost $35,000--or 54 times more than middle-class families. Households with incomes above $1 million will receive tax cuts averaging about $123,600.

The list goes on and on. I truly just don't understand why someone would prefer Bush as our leader than Kerry. Health care, domestic policy, international policy, intellect, critical thinking skills, articulateness, foriegn policy, tax policy, abortion rights, presence in reality, ability to admit when you are wrong and change stances, abilty to look at changing facts and change stances, slimeyness....Seriously.

Back in the Saddle Again: Yes, I am still here...just very busy. I'll try to get some info posted today and this weekend.

Baby Rebecca: Need I say more? Oh yeah, I get to meet her this weekend! Tomorrow!

Argh: I just wrote a fairly long post about the Minary Conference, but there was an error and it is gone. So, the Cliff Notes are: good conference, great place, kayaking, hiking, fantastic food, Disco Bingo, learned a fair amount. Scroll down on this page to see some great photos from the place. BEAUTIFUL! I took some other photos which I will post on Snapfish soon.

"Conference" Recap: I am back for about 36 hours from the Minary Conference near Lake Tahoe before heading to Cleveland for the weekend. (where I will meet Rebecca Claire Carter!!!!) So, to summarize...
- We were given a Pontiac Sunfire...a cheap level sports car. It had manual windows, was kinda dirty, and had almost zero "umph"
- I was able to go kayaking and on a great hike during network free time (I really did network too) We also played Disco Bingo (just as you would imagine and then some) and ate wonderful food.
- I learned a fair amount from the other participants (Its a small conference with about 50 people), have a better understanding of how/why MIT does things the way they do after having to explain it to others, and feel re-charged from being out in nature. (Our cabins sat directly on the lake and it was just like being back at Kamaji...well, not quite)

Kimpossible Has Left the Building: I will be working at the Alumni Leadership Conference today and tomorrow, and then leaving for a conference near Lake Tahoe from Sunday through late Wednesday night. Then I am in Boston on Thursday and leave for Cleveland on Friday evening through Sunday night.

You Read My Mind: Stressed spelled backwards is desserts.-Barbara Enberg

Fall Friday Five (gosh I love alliteration):

- What is your favorite season? FALL!!!! I love the cool (but not yet cold) crisp air, the changing leaves, the sense of a new school year (since I have been in school or working with/for schools since I was 6), my birthday, apples, the Jewish New Year, and fall clothes.

- How many times have you FALLEN in love? Twice.

- What is the last thing that made your heart FALL? Realizing that there were 3 things I *could* have done last night, and I had to do the one I least wanted to do. (Attend an event for work...I actually was excited to go until I found out two other things I could have been doing)

- How many major waterFALLS have you been to? Niagara Fall (NY/Canada), Dunn River Falls (Jamaica), Multanoma Falls (OR), and a couple in Costa Rica (can't remember their names) are the big ones I remember. At camp we would stop on our canoe trips to sit under the pounding water, which was always a highlight.

- What five words best describe your upcoming FALL? unhaltingly busy, geographically dispersed, apples

Logic Problem: You have 12 cases of beer (12 beers in each case) A normal bottle of beer has 12 ounces. One of the cases is filled with bottles containing only 11 ounces per bottle, and all other 11 cases are filled with normal 12 ounce bottles. You are given ONE press on a digital scale to figure our which case has the 11 ounce bottles. How do you do it? (ask questions in the comment section)

Question: If a man speaks in the woods and no woman hears, is he still wrong?

Birth Announcement: As I was driving home from Temple last night, I called home to get a voice mail from Chip, stating that Abby was in labor. This morning, at about 10:00 a.m., Chip and Abby welcomed Rebecca (middle name tbd) into this world. She was delivered early because of some concerns of the doctor, and was small, at a little under 5 pounds. She is progressing well, as is Abby. I am smiling ear to ear and am so happy for them. What a blessing for the New Year!

"Kimpossible-Cole's-Jewish-New-Year" Friday Five:
- Do you know who Kimpossible is? Yes, I know who the person is who writes this blog (KHC) and the Disney cartoon character that this is reference to. She (both) is a feisty redhead who is prone to wear black shirts, has lots of energy, had lots of great friends, take sh*t from no one, and likes to be in control. (See...that's why I picked the persona!) The funny part is that I have never watched a full episode.
- How many people with the last name Cole do you know? Even I know surprisingly few. I know the small Cole family, but I don't know if I *know* anyone else with that last name.
- What religion do you consider yourself? Culturally I consider myself Jewish. In terms of rituals and holidays, I also consider myself Jewish. There is certainly no other organized religion that I follow. My values and sense of being are compatible to Judaism, although they are also found in many other religions. I really treasure the High Holidays as a time to reflect, take the time to be still long enough to think about where I have been and where I would like to be going, and think about the kind of person I strive to be.
- What is the newest thing you have? Some wine I bought last weekend at a vineyard with Hilary and Steve in CT.
- What is your favorite year of your life? I think sophomore year of college. I had great friends, liked where I was living (with Major Mocha), was happy in my classes, and just felt good about my life. Unfortunately I would say that 1st-8th grade were hard for me because I was picked on a lot (not that I was miserable all the time but I wouldn't say they were the best years of my life) and I have serious tragedies in my life in high school. I have actually said that I think I have been happier every year since I was 13. I still think that stands if I base it on my self esteem, quality of life, sense of self, and overall joy.

Shout Out To Ms. Eyrich: In yesterday's Globe a picture of a young girl doing Highland Dancing jumped out at me. Macalester College (where I went to undergrad) is a Scottish school and one of my closest friends did highland dance all through college. My friends and I would even go watch her compete in Highland Games, where she and our classmates were always the oldest participants. Looks like a Scottish Fair is out this way this weekend.

Huh?: In a story about a man who fell to his death while on a hike in the Grand Canyon, it reports, "It was an unclear why the man fell while hiking Saturday...His wife had been walking in front of him and didn't see him fall...Authorities didn't release the man's identity because they had not yet positively identified the body Monday." Does the woman not know who her husband is? How could thye be having trouble identifying the body?

I Drive A Driving School Car???: When we were teenagers, we used to say that Judi's car looked like a driving school car. Ya know, all the driving schools used these boxy-ish Chevy's and other cars, that when you saw them you thought "Driving School Car". Well, driving into work today I was behind a student driver in a CAROLLA! That's my car! Hopefull this means that driving schools have become hip, and not a statement of my car tastes. (Except, maybe it shows that I pick safe, easy to drive, and common cars....)

Weekend Update: On Friday I went down to CT to see Hilary and Steve around 4, and arrived there around 6. We hung out for a bit and then went to a yummy (and HUGE) dinner at Angellino's. We then went to the 9:50 showing of Vanity Fair. It was quite good (maybe a B+) but I was sooooo tired! Saturday it was pouring so we stayed in and were cozy for the first part of the day. Hilary did a fashion show of her clothes so she could sort, eliminate and plan her wardrobe. Then we went to a vineyard and did a wine tasting around 4, and went to an orchard to pick apples after that. We went back to their place where we (by that I mainly mean Steve, who is a wonderful cook) cooked dinner and made apple crisp with the apples we picked. We also made s'mores on the bbq! Sunday I drove home around 10 (beautiful fall day) and went to the new SUPER grocery store by my house. Its like a city! I made some of "Kim's Famous Soup" to have for the week, and went to my brothers for a little bit to help him strategize his new furniture etc. Then I watched some of the Patriots and went babysitting (well, 8 year-old sitting). (By the way, Pats won!!!!...we don't talk about the Red Sox this weekend) The other good news/bad news is that my back feels 85% better, after bringing me to tears for about 1.5 months! The bad news is that I have a cold. No wonder, since the temp has been going between 72-45-68 all week. I would much rather have a cold than a bad back!!! So, here I am back at work. Marshall and I are going to dinner tonight...its been way too long!

L'Shana Tova: Happy (Jewish) New Year to all my loved one (and everyone else too) May you have a happy, healthy, and love-filled year.

We Lost A Nuclear Bomb???: Government experts are investigating a claim that an unarmed nuclear bomb, lost off the Georgia coast at the height of the Cold War, might have been found, an Air Force spokesman said Monday. The hydrogen bomb was lost in the Atlantic Ocean in 1958 following a collision of a B-47 bomber and an F-86 fighter.

Long But Quite Interesting Aricle: After nearly being killed when his drunk cab driver got into an accident, former NBA player Manute Bol recovers in the hospital. The Globe reports, "Some 76 days after the accident and still facing a long rehabilitation, Bol is not only broken but broke. He says he has no health insurance and is not eligible for his NBA pension until he is 45. He gave away an estimated $3.2 million to help his countrymen fight the Islamic government in Sudan, and he's not sorry he did. "I don't feel bad because I feel I saved some people by doing that," said Bol."

This Could Be Big: Ericka Ebbel, MIT alumna, won the talent portion of the priliminary round at the Miss America pagent last night. Two of my collegues are going to Atlantic City this weekend to watch the actual pagent. A rifle shooting, piano playing, beautiful, wicked smart, MIT educated woman in the Miss America pagent! Who woulda thunk? She is actually favored to reach the top 5 at least!

Truly Excellent Movie: Last night Emily and I went to see Garden State (after a yummy dinner at Cheesecake Factory....mmmmm, Thai lettuce wraps). I am not overstating when I say it was one of the best movies I have ever seen. (Mom and Dad- Yes, I know you predicted I would love it...thanks!) Absolutely fantastic acting (it didn't even seem like they were acting), wonderful writing, and wonderful character to explore in Natalie Portman's character.

Kim's Semi-Cranky, Semi-Happy Friday Five:

* What five things are you most cranky about? My back has been hurting me so much lately that it brought me to the point of making me tear up today (I have been going to a chiropractor 2-3 times a week...I am just so uncomfortable!), I don't have plans tonight, my knee hurts and I don't know why, the Red Sox lost last night, and I lost my sunglasses.
* What five things are you happiest about? It is supposed to be a beautiful weekend, the Patriots won last night, my meeting went quite well last night, I am working to heal a relationship in my life that has been hurting, and I had an amazingly honest and eye opening conversation with someone at work this morning.
* What five words would describe you right now? physically uncomfortable, productive, hungry, optimistic
* What five words do you WISH described you right now? limber, eating ice cream, giggling
* What five words would describe your past week? busy, child-filled, sleepy, productive

Yeah Pats! One down....15 more to go...then the playoffs...then about 4 more to go...then the Super Bowl Champs AGAIN....oh, wait, did I just get ahead of myself?

Wish Me Luck: Tonight I am hosting a "focused discussion" (not to be confused with a focus group...these alumnae are far to elite for such rif raf) about the MIT Women's Leadership conference I am in charge of this spring. As my boss astutely warned "Kim, you know you have to do the rest of your job too...and can't just plan this women's event, right?" Eight high power (highly opinionated, and used to being listened to) alumnae are coming to my dinner and meeting, hosted at a hotel. I feel well prepared, and hope that I will be met with supportive women, who offer constructive criticism, lots of good ideas, and offers of their personal contacts etc. We'll see.... Also, my boss and my boss's boss will be there.....Talk slowly, listen carefully, don't be defensive, its gunna be great. p.s. Good luck to Prof. Em, who is teaching her first class at Tuft's X College tonight. Lady power!

A Wonderful Idea: A job and maybe a home (plus an increased quality of life) all because of voice mail. The nonprofit Community Voice Mail project provides homeless people with a way for potential employers, social service agencies and relatives to contact them. It also enables them to apply for a job without having to tell a prospective employer they are living on the streets.

In sporting news: The streaking Red Sox all but did no wrong as they whipped A's bulldog Tim Hudson behind the latest act of mastery by Pedro Martinez to win their 20th game in 22 tries by completing a staggering sweep, 8-3, at Network Associates Coliseum. Also, the WORLD CHAMPION New England Patriots (did I tell you we won the Super Bowl???) open their season against the Hoosier Colts (he he he Dad) Beautiful!

A Little Bit of Hate Removed: Richard G. Butler, the notorious white supremacist who founded the Aryan Nations and was once dubbed the "elder statesman of American hate," died in his sleep at his home in Hayden, Idaho, authorities said yesterday....I have to admit, I mourn some losses more than others.

Health Is More Than Skin Deep: I was just looking at a recent picture of Clinton, thinking that he looked thinner and healthy. Then I read today that he is in need of a heart bypass, perhaps a quartuple, maybe as early as Saturday. Guess it really doesn't work to eat junk food for 50 years, diet for one, and expect to have no ill affects. (Although better late than never!)

3oth Birthday Friday Five: (no, I'm already 30!...but someone else is turning 30 tomorrow and I am throwing a party to mark the occasion.)

1. Where were you 30 years ago? I was just less than a year old. I lived in Rittenhouse Circle and would blissfully have about 2 more years of being an only child. I know it will not shock those that know me, but I think I was already talking.
2. Where would you like to be in 30 years? I would like to be happily married, with 2 kids (including a daughter named Maya...or some such spelling) I would like to be the Director of Something at a nonprofit who's mission I feel passionately about. I would also like to be traveling about 4 times a year. (and therefore have the financial resources to do that)
3. What 3 wishful things would you like for your birthday this year? Enough money to pay off my credit cards, a fantastic birthday date (although a wonderful evening with friends is always fantastic too...but as long as I am being wishful...) and a headboard for my bed. I already got one of the presents I wanted for my birthday (which isn't until next month) which is a digital camera.
4. What was the best birthday present you ever got? Two things...the home I bought for myself for my 30th birthday, and the cruise my parents paid for as a combo birthday/finishing grad school gift.
5. What is your overall opinion of birthdays? I love them! Not just mine...EVERYONE'S. I think it is the one day a year you get to celebrate the people you love in a totally loving, self-less, and wonderful way. I think it is so important to tell the people in your life how awesome they are, and birthdays are a great time to do that. I also don't mind aging, so there is no stress involved in becoming one year older.

More About Shaker: Speaking of my home town and its schools, a couple weeks ago ABC aired a show called The Reunion, which was revisiting a class of kindergarteners who were the first class of the newly integrated Ludlow area of Shaker. The show was very interesting, and really captured the flavor, good and bad, of the truth about growing up in Shaker. Although they were obviously at Shaker in a different ear, some of the themes certainly persist today...again, for good and bad. There is audio and other commentary on the site.

Education Policy In Practice: My alma mater, Shaker Heights High School, was given a "needs improvement" rating according the the federal No Child Left Behind program, because of its low-scoring special education program. This rating is then associated with the entire school, which is deemed not meeting the NCLB standards. To me, the whole NCLB thing is another example of policy being created, and evaluated, without concern for individual issues, and budgets. After all, I would hope that would NOT mean more money for Shaker, which is quite well supported. It also is a further example of how the lofty Shaker High (which I think gave *ME* a great education) still need work. People send so much time praising the district, they don't notice that many people are falling through the cracks...wonder who they might be????

He's Not Worth Nearly That Much: A woman pays for her clothes at Fashion Bug with a $200 bill with GW Bush's face on it. I question both the cashier, and the customer.

Holy Cannoli: The Cleveland Indians beat the New York Yankees 22-0! I think pigs just flew and hell might be getting awfully cold....how can I test my luck?