Perhaps the Earliest ReElection Campaign Ever

Before he's even raised his hand to take the oath, it appears our President Elect is working at his reelection in 2012.

What other reasonable explanation could there be for his selection as invocation choice for the inaugural ceremony. Let me start by saying, I'm an Obama fan. I may even be willing to cut him some slack and set aside my concerns in this instance because what our country needs now more than anything - is unity.

That being said, choosing Rick Warren is certainly a bold choice, if not a dumb one. We're talking about a mega-church pastor who has equated Gay marriage to incest.

I know - huh?

Certainly that must qualify as some sort of radical thinking - if not insanity. But, Obama's reaching-out may be centered more on trying to bring evangelicals into his centrist fold rather than anything else. It is sort of a nod to the right wing to say "See! I'm really, really not a muslim - and it'd be alright if you moved on over to the center somewhat. And, come 2012, remember how I reached out to you. I'm not a liberal".

Great. Good for you Mr. President elect. However - if you recall, none of Pastor Warren's constituents were involved, worked hard, or contributed their dollars to get you the the position where you'll get to waltz around the floor at your inaugural ball. Quite a large portion of your supporters who did, will be left outside in the cold, looking in the window.

As an admirer of political-posturing-done-well this may be a master stroke. Pastor Warren has much to benefit from this newly-cozy if not odd coupling. With the Reverend Billy Graham and the like moving off the scene - there's no preeminent successor to carry the torch as the figure head of Christianity for sanctioned formal events.

What a great opportunity for the reverend to raise his stature among his followers, and lure in a whole new batch of converts to his mega-church by pointing to his move towards national prominence. Great. Hope he gets a new hummer out of it.

But, Mr. President-elect - you're walking a fine line. If things don't go very well in the coming years (and right now, things are so bad, you're going to have to be a miracle worker to say the least) the first ones who will seek to throw you overboard to the minnows will be the followers of the good pastor himself. And, if you continue to make moves like this - which isolate, offend and otherwise disillusion the Gay community - I don't know that you'll be able to call on that constituency to throw you a life preserver NO MATTER HOW GOOD AN ORATOR you are or if you tap dance a jig better than Ben Vereen himself.

So, that being said - I'll forgo this one. I'm cautiously optimistic. I'd like to see where you're going with this one before I write you off as a bait-and-switch candidate who has taken the money of the Gay community, thrown in a few references to aknowledge our existence off stage, and then conveniently forget our existence now that our checks are cashed.

Oh. And a fucking appointment to your cabinet might not be out of the question either. How about that for balance?

Thanks.

In Houston at Thanksgiving

In houston at thanksgiving
Originally uploaded by ChristopherSolis.

I had a very nice time this year visiting friends in Houston.

It was a good time, but of course Rob was in California with our family - so that would have been nice too. I had used up my vacation in my surgery, so I wasn't able to venture west this time.

But, I am looking forward to going that way in February.

It's going to be great fun. In the meantime it's getting cold here. Yesterday it was 77 degrees, today is like 57. Big drop! And, I'll survive but I prefer the warm weather any day. Pictured above are friends I traveled from Austin with. Left to right, Shefonda, Resta, Jessica and FaLisha. We mostly stayed off each others nerves and some moments were more successful than others but remember, close quarters does that to even the best of friends right?

Looking forward to gettting the Christmas tree this weekend and starting a painting project in the next couple of weeks. I'm sure the house will look totally different!

Hello and greetings from Austin --> Christopher

It's getting colder

It's getting colder
Originally uploaded by ChristopherSolis.

It's a cool evening. Uno kitten, ever the subtle one, sits staring at
the cold dark fireplace as if to say "Never mind me. Sure I have this
fur. I'm just old and cold, but - I'll be OK"

Rob caves, of course, fireplace on.

Hope things are well with you and your family

C!

What Now. Where From Here

Well. It was nice to hear from friends and family today offering their condolences and sympathies for the passage of Proposition 8 in California. There are so many things to examine from this episode of a civil rights struggle that gains another chapter.

What's most important, and what I need to reiterate as much for myself as for all of you is that we need not lose hope. Sure, it's surprising - sometimes appalling to see the degree of bigotry which exists in America. Especially in, what most in our country view, as a liberal haven like California. But, witnessing ignorance or hatred, usually is just that - surprising and appalling.

Mostly because, as Americans, we don't think of the people who live right next door to us as being capable of disliking us. You know, those folks who for the most part wave at us, or at least nod in our direction when we see each other getting into our cars in the morning. Each going to work. Each earning a living to pay our taxes. Each putting our pant legs on, one-at-a-time. You get the picture.

What bothered most of the people that I've spoken with over the last few months were the drives down the streets lined with signs proclaiming support for such a divisive proposition. It created hurt and dismay. Even my own Mother, God-Bless-her, was shocked that someone might take her NO on 8 bumper sticker. (No worries. She replaced it with one on the "inside" of the window. Not fearing someone breaking it, she reminded me that's what insurance is for).

But, back to the "hope" part.

The struggle of course, is far from over. The cause of reason and justice can't be deterred by a single event. And, in the big scheme of things, this is a single event.

If you look at the results of Proposition 22 just a few years ago and the results of this vote, it is clear that the sane is gaining ground. It is not possible for the irrational and unsubstantiated to last perpetually.

States like Massachusetts and the like will show America that it is simply unjust in the long run to treat people differently. And, for those who voted for 8, with the argument that civil unions are the same as marriage, thus - we should settle for this - you may be among the most misdirected. It is simply akin to telling a colored person of the 50's that your fountain dispenses water, it will quench your thirst too - why must you drink from mine.

Demeaning a class of people can only last for a time. But, it's important that we take this time to examine ourselves. Examine our strategies, and our goals. Let's use this time to rethink our approach and our future.

Perhaps we expand our advocacy efforts to include repealing tax-exemption laws for "religious" institutions that are more aptly the equivalent to PAC's. We will need to regroup, and reapproach our conscious awareness of our continued movement. Perhaps commemorating this set back as a day of reflection. Let's move to make it a day off work. If not through formal holiday, a day of strike. And lets refocus this referendum as one on civil rights. Period. Yes, I'm Gay - but quite frankly as far as this discussion is concerned, that's irrelevant.

Lastly once we find the votes in the future, hopefully not too distant future, and we bring this to the front of the political conversation again - let's enlist a nationwide grass roots effort. Each of our LGBT brothers and sisters has as much to gain from this effort as Californians do. Finding a way to involve people from out of state, much like the Mormons and Catholics do can be an effective way to channel our broader energies and efforts from our extended communities.

And - then. Once we repeal this injustice, move to change the laws to require at least two thirds vote for any change to the State Constitution. This referendum should never have passed with a 51 or 52 percent vote. The constitution ought to be held as a document not to be easily changed with the whim of a political group bent on pushing their views on their neighbors. Speaking of neighbors - the next time yours asks to borrow your lawn mower, tell him "get off my fucking lawn i'll chew your ass up with it!".

Ok. that last part was just a little frustration venting. Go ahead and give it to them. Show them what a real neighbor should behave like.

Hugs from Texas. We love you all.

November Weight Loss Update

Hey. Well, I wanted to provide an update to those who inquire regularly. Thank you so much for your support.







I'm happy about the progress and when you ask, it makes me feel like you care too.

Also an Uno the Cat update. Our little kitty is better. He was out of it for about a week, and we thought we were going to lose him. He was just in one spot and not eating, drinking or going to the bathroom. His eyes were only half open so we set up a little spot for him so he could sleep. He seemed to like the little heating pad we set up (in fact, he's better now but still hangs out on that pad!)

We cut up some chicken, his favorite and put that down next to him. Eventually he'd try and eat something and then drink some water and this lasted about several days but eventually he started crying again at 5am for chicken. Normally, this would NOT make me happy, but the first morning in over a week, where he cried for a 5am feeding, I was up and out of bed so fast! I was just so happy he was appearing to be heading back to normal.

He's lost even more weight and is just hanging out on his heating pad most of the time, but it's nice that he appears from most aspects his usual self.

Thanks to those that asked.

Election day is tomorrow! I'll be hanging out at our friends John and Chris' home so we can celebrate this historic moment together. It'll be historic no matter how it turns out right? But we all know HOW it will turn out. I'm confident.

We'll also be eyeing west to see how our family and friends are doing with Proposition 8. It is so sad really that folks insist on putting love as a constitutional referendum. I'm surprised by some folks stance on this issue who are sometimes considered in minority groups themselves. It was only 1969 that the last law in America which made it unlawful for peoples of two different races to marry. There was a time in this country where some were viewed as "property" and thus, had no ability to determine who they'd love or be able to marry. There was even a time when women had little say over matrimonial decisions.

To think of what I've been hearing in the media from some folks associated with these groups, it makes me shake my head. It's beyone comprehension really. I hope that justice and common sense prevails. I think we're seeing in the presidential election that the country is ready for change and healing - and I hope this sentiment extends to the California propositions where folks can say enough of the deviciveness. I hope it all goes well.

Heading Into the Home Stretch

Dear Friends,

Most of you probably are already voting this season, NO on Proposition 8. As a new resident of Texas, I have no dog in this fight (as we say here in Tejas).









That, not entirely being true, I wanted to take this opportunity to convey the importance of this legislation to me and my family.

When Rob and I decided to marry in 2005, after already 16 years together, it was because we felt we wanted to share a momentous occasion with those closest to us. It was particularly important because we value our family and we know that they value us as well. This was an opportunity to acknowledge as an extended family all of our commitment to one another.

But, the legality of marriage is of the highest importance.

When I finished my service in the U.S. Navy after 12 years of service (8 active 4 reserve) and I returned home with 3 Good Conduct Medals (for being a good sailor), the National Defense Service Medal (for my service during the Gulf War), Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation (for participating in what was at the time one of the largest domestic drug interdiction) and the one I'm most proud of the Navy Achievement Medal (the highest personal award presented for individual achievement) I expected Rob and I would settle down in my hometown of Sacramento and start a new life.

After living with years of opression, in the form of Don't Ask-Don't Tell, and undergoing some truly humiliating experiences in which I feared for my life and sanity - I just wanted to live a 'normal' civilian life. It was enlightening and disappointing though to see the discrimination on the inside of the military extends outside, just taking different forms.

When we found our dream home, we couldn't get it because I couldn't use my VA loan in the way a married couple can. We swallowed hard, let go of the dream of owning that home and settled on a condo that we could get. Not our ideal, but still our first home!

When trying to get homeowners insurance, we weren't able to get the insurance discount offered other customers who have their home and cars jointly insured with the same company - because of our marital status. After waiving our arms and raising our voices, we finally convinced AAA to compromise. They gave us a conditional offer to extend the discount to a non-married couple. The condition was we registered each others cars in both our names (at the time, Rob had his, I had mine). When we approached GMAC they indicated we would need to pay a $250 application fee. This fee not required of married couples. For a married couple, you can simply add the spouses name to the loan. For non-married couple, it's considered a separate application process. We forewent GMAC and refinanced the cars through the Credit Union.

The credit union however directed us to the California DMV to add each other to the titles of the cars. For married folks, this is simply an administrative process with no charge. For unmarried folks it is treated like the sale of a car. You have to pay a transfer fee and obtain a smog check.

Ok (sigh).

We went to take the car to get smogged and since they'd need it for several hours, we decided to cross the street and rent a car for the day. The lovely folks at Enterprise quoted me a rate different than the one being simultaneously quoted right next to me! The lovely lady explained that the couple next to us was married. In California there is an implied liability for married couples. For we non-married types, we would need to pay an additional driver fee.

Folks, if you're straight - you may not be subjected to this treatment in America. So, you could be forgiven for not knowing it even exists. If you're Gay and not in a relationship, you may also be unaware. Unless you're a person who is confronted with this type of atmosphere regularly, you may be not be conscious about how pervasive discrimination extends throughout our society. The institution of marriage, whether you agree with Gay Marriage or not - carries the weight of law and as a result many of the benefits in our society - have been joined to it.

These benefits should not be refused to those who have no power to make the choice of entering into the institution.

You might argue that the purpose of marriage is for pro-creation, but not all married couples pro-create. You might argue that no church should be forced to perform a ceremony for people they don't wish to recognize. Check. We're in agreement there too.

So I guess if we remove some of those arguments, I'm still waiting for the one which makes moral and ethical sense. Isn't it ironic that folks who might try and claim some moral high-road by claiming some religious or biblical foundation for their argument aren't as rabidly opposing the invasive pop culture phenomena which degredate marriage like Who Wants to Marry a Millionaire, or Marry My Dad, or The Bachelor, or the Bachelorette, or fly-by-night-get-hitched-in-Vegas-by-Elvis operations, or prison marriages, or marriage-to-promote-citizenship-to-immigrants, or marriage between opposite sex for reasons other than love, or marriages because of teen pregnancy and your momma is running for Vice President, or any number of abuses of an ideal they claim to hold so sacred?

Is it any wonder that the Gay community looks at these folks with skepticism that they aren't sincere?

Before I ramble myself into too much bandwidth. Let me just conclude with my sincere stand on this issue. Issuing a marriage license to two people soley on the basis of their gender - without any regard to any other criteria - is unjust. There's no argument that you can convince me of which says that a veteran, such as I, who have contributed to the betterment of my community, has paid my taxes and have worked hard to improve my neighborhood and the quality of life where I live - is less qualified to enter into this state-sanctioned-institution than someone who has just committed murder, never paid a dime of taxes in his life, and who couldn't even care about this argument because they never vote! Yet, they are entitled to a whole segment of entitlements, others are not.

If you can somehow reconcile your reasoning, please give me a non-demonational, pro-American, sane and reasonable explanation. Thank you.

Christopher Solis-Rough
Texas Resident

A Weekend of West meets South

We had a great visit from our friend Kev and his compadres. We tooled around, and saw stuff. We ate tons, or as much as one can eat banded anyway. And, we danced, danced, danced. I had a great time and I'm sure everyone else did too. We tried some places I hadn't yet, like Milaga's a tapas restaurant where the meatballs were the best. Although that place was seriously loud. So great place to eat, but not necessarily the best for conversation.



I put together this video from the trip so we could see some fun pictures from a great weekend. We made it to the Oasis. That's the place that looks out over lake Travis and Mom and Rocki when they came to visit really loved that place.

We had a small problem with the jeep the boys were driving, but after one tow truck call and a crammed backseat back to town, we were back in vacation mode again! We did have that small problem Saturday night with the Valet stand that closed before we retrieved the car resulting in.. no car! But my new friends from California put me up in their hotel so I didn't have to walk from Downtown to North Austin. Quite a hike!

We sure enjoyed the Spider House and hanging out until the time for their departure came. Which was sorta sad, because I wanted the weekend to go on and on. But, I'm sure they'll come back to visit again. There's plenty of reasons, there's so much to see and do - and believe it or not, we never made it to 6th street all weekend. Can't believe it!

Through all that dancing and only attempted eating, I had another great weight-loss-weekend, tipping the scale this morning at a total weight loss thus far of 60 pounds. Wow.

I hope you're all doing well and I look forward to seeing you all. Soon.

Finally. Somethings Going Down

Finally. Somethings Going Down
Originally uploaded by ChristopherSolis.

Watching the final debate this evening. I'm not seeing anything new. Well, maybe "Joe the Plumber" is new.

I think anyone who hasn't made up their mind by now, is either brain dead or just fibbing.

As far as I'm concerned, let's just hold the election now and be done with it. It can't be my imagination that this is the longest election of all time. It's like Christmas shopping. It's starting earlier, earlier and earlier.

I don't think we're benefiting from this point. It seems like it's just negative because there is no point in trying to outlay any new ideas this late in the cycle.

So, I'm tuning out. I have enough information to make a decision. So, if you're one those people who says "oh, I just won't know until I step into the booth" - God bless ya. I'm thinking what more information might you need??

I took this picture today because I was amazed that gas has finally come down some. I swear just 2 - 3 weeks ago it was like $1 more than this a gallon! How does that happen?

I hope you're doing well. I've hit one of those plateaus in my weight loss. The needle hasn't moved lately but I'm doing alright. Let me know how you're doing!

I Had to Prove It Was True. It Happened.

I, like many of my friends, have become a Facebook junky. It's become part of my semi daily routine. Just like checking my voicemail, checking my email, now I've added - checking my Facebook. It's a great way to connect with friends and family. What are they up to? What is going on in their daily lives, let's see their pictures. What are they doing right this minute? What is their status update? This one is at Starbucks - this one is feeling blue - this one is at work, and should be working - this one is climbing a mountain (which makes you wonder, why the hell would you be at the top of a mountain, trying to connect to facebook?!) (Insert laugh here). We all gave the person a hard time about that one.

When I was drinking, I'd often think well - I can't have a probelm, because I'm not as bad as him or her! And, I find myself doing the same thing. I would never climb to the top of a mountain, and rather than taking in the view, hope that I could get an internet connection so I could announce to the world that in this moment I feel happy. Not that I'm at the top of a mountain, but that I could connect to Facebook.

But now, for those of you who are Facebookers too, you know it's not just about the collection of updates and peeks into what folks are up to. There's all these applications which run on Facebook and I can play scrabble-word scraper-scrabulous with one group, race cars online with another group, and send birthday cards, receive little daily well wishes, and Ouch! I just got poked!

If you're wondering if this writing will be a litany - or railing on the evils of Facebook - think again! I'm in the middle of my addiction! I don't have a problem.

Oh and I just beat my friend Eddie (aka Emma) in Word Scraper. She's one of the most linguistically intellegent friends I have who traditionally kicks my ass from one end of the block to the other. But on this day I achieved a monumental victory. No, I didn't lose a hundred pounds (yet), no - I'm not counquering a mountain top, nor did I discover a cure for the common cold..

I BEAT EDDIE IN A GAME OF WORD SCRAPER - LIFE IS GREAT!

I even took a picture of the screen to prove that it actually happened. I hope you're as happy for me as I would if you'd discovered I had just won the lottery. Because I may not ever do that but I did this.

Ok. I can go back to trying to be humble again. Thanks for indulging me in this gloating commercial.

Weight Loss September FIFTY POUND MARK

Hey all. Well, it's time to update on the weight loss. It's been going smooth and steady. It averages to about 2 pounds per week, which is what the Dr. said was an expected and healthy rate. I was skeptical as some weeks there's very little change, and then others it drops faster.

You can click on the graph to see it larger. But, I'm glad there is less nausea.

I'm thinking I'll have to buy some new clothes soon. Yes - I've been wearing my old clothes. Mostly because you know, I'm frugal that way and hate the thought of spending money on a size that I might zoom past makes me clutch my dollars harder.

But, folks at work have commented that my clothes are a little loose fitting. I take it as a compliment most times and say "thanks". But, then the other day I was walking by a mirror at work and was appalled. It was total clown-hobo look. I couldn't believe my pants were cinched up by a belt that was on the smallest hole, and a shirt that was hanging loose everywhere.

I was shocked and then laughed and then went back to shocked. So, I guess I'll have to buck up and buy a new outfit or two. Maybe I'll buy tight and hope to grow into it. I supposed that's the converse of my weight gain days when I would buy just a little loose with the sub-conscience thought that I might gain weight and then they wouldn't fit if they were too snug.

So, all is going good. I'm going to a support group. I went to my first clothing trade, but there was no men there, and I think my co workers would rather see me in my current baggy clothes, than a flowery dress that fits. Everyone has continued to be supportive. I had a birthday last week and the tradition of our workplace is that you get taken to lunch, but instead my coworkers gave me a beautiful bouquet of flowers. That was thoughtful of them.

Let me know how you're doing. Especially if I haven't heard from you in a while.

And Now A Message from Anne Kilkenny

Dear friends, I'm posting this on my blog after hearing a piece on NPR about it. This woman was interviewed on national radio and I thought it was interesting that she wrote a letter to her friends, that then became 'viral'. Viral, being the term many use when something is posted to the internet and becomes very popular, very quickly - as things on the internet sometimes are.

Here's her letter which I think is very revealing about the proposed Vice President for the Republicans:

Christopher

---------------------------------

Dear friends,

So many people have asked me about what I know about Sarah Palin in the
last 2 days that I decided to write something up . . .

Basically, Sarah Palin and Hillary Clinton have only 2 things in
common: their gender and their good looks. :)

You have my permission to forward this to your friends/email contacts
with my name and email address attached, but please do not post it on
any websites, as there are too many kooks out there . . .

Thanks,
Anne

  [ Note by web_admin: This was already posted on Washington Independent
     comments area and was meant by the author to be read by many, but
     readers need sourcing.  The NY Times has talked with Anne since. ]

ABOUT SARAH PALIN

I am a resident of Wasilla, Alaska. I have known Sarah since 1992.
Everyone here knows Sarah, so it is nothing special to say we are on a
first-name basis. Our children have attended the same schools. Her
father was my child's favorite substitute teacher. I also am on a
first name basis with her parents and mother-in-law. I attended more
City Council meetings during her administration than about 99% of the
residents of the city.

She is enormously popular; in every way she’s like the most popular
girl in middle school. Even men who think she is a poor choice and
won't vote for her can't quit smiling when talking about her because
she is a "babe".

It is astonishing and almost scary how well she can keep a secret. She
kept her most recent pregnancy a secret from her children and parents
for seven months.

She is "pro-life". She recently gave birth to a Down's syndrome baby.
There is no cover-up involved, here; Trig is her baby.

She is energetic and hardworking. She regularly worked out at the gym.

She is savvy. She doesn't take positions; she just "puts things out
there" and if they prove to be popular, then she takes credit.

Her husband works a union job on the North Slope for BP and is a
champion snowmobile racer. Todd Palin’s kind of job is highly
sought-after because of the schedule and high pay. He arranges his
work schedule so he can fish for salmon in Bristol Bay for a month or
so in summer, but by no stretch of the imagination is fishing their
major source of income. Nor has her life-style ever been anything
like that of native Alaskans.

Sarah and her whole family are avid hunters.

She's smart.

Her experience is as mayor of a city with a population of about 5,000
(at the time), and less than 2 years as governor of a state with about
670,000 residents.

During her mayoral administration most of the actual work of running
this small city was turned over to an administrator. She had been
pushed to hire this administrator by party power-brokers after she had
gotten herself into some trouble over precipitous firings which had
given rise to a recall campaign.

Sarah campaigned in Wasilla as a “fiscal conservative”. During her 6
years as Mayor, she increased general government expenditures by over
33%. During those same 6 years the amount of taxes collected by the
City increased by 38%. This was during a period of low inflation
(1996-2002). She reduced progressive property taxes and increased a
regressive sales tax which taxed even food. The tax cuts that she
promoted benefited large corporate property owners way more than they
benefited residents.

The huge increases in tax revenues during her mayoral administration
weren’t enough to fund everything on her wish list though, borrowed
money was needed, too. She inherited a city with zero debt, but left it
with indebtedness of over $22 million. What did Mayor Palin encourage
the voters to borrow money for? Was it the infrastructure that she said
she supported? The sewage treatment plant that the city lacked? or a
new library? No. $1m for a park. $15m-plus for construction of a
multi-use sports complex which she rushed through to build on a piece
of property that the City didn’t even have clear title to, that was
still in litigation 7 yrs later--to the delight of the lawyers
involved! The sports complex itself is a nice addition to the
community but a huge money pit, not the profit-generator she claimed it
would be. She also supported bonds for $5.5m for road projects that
could have been done in 5-7 yrs without any borrowing.

While Mayor, City Hall was extensively remodeled and her office
redecorated more than once.

These are small numbers, but Wasilla is a very small city.

As an oil producer, the high price of oil has created a budget surplus
in Alaska. Rather than invest this surplus in technology that will
make us energy independent and increase efficiency, as Governor she
proposed distribution of this surplus to every individual in the state.

In this time of record state revenues and budget surpluses, she
recommended that the state borrow/bond for road projects, even while
she proposed distribution of surplus state revenues: spend today's
surplus, borrow for needs.

She’s not very tolerant of divergent opinions or open to outside ideas
or compromise. As Mayor, she fought ideas that weren’t generated by
her or her staff. Ideas weren’t evaluated on their merits, but on the
basis of who proposed them.

While Sarah was Mayor of Wasilla she tried to fire our highly respected
City Librarian because the Librarian refused to consider removing from
the library some books that Sarah wanted removed. City residents
rallied to the defense of the City Librarian and against Palin's
attempt at out-and-out censorship, so Palin backed down and withdrew
her termination letter. People who fought her attempt to oust the
Librarian are on her enemies list to this day.

Sarah complained about the “old boy’s club” when she first ran for
Mayor, so what did she bring Wasilla? A new set of "old boys". Palin
fired most of the experienced staff she inherited. At the City and as
Governor she hired or elevated new, inexperienced, obscure people,
creating a staff totally dependent on her for their jobs and eternally
grateful and fiercely loyal--loyal to the point of abusing their power
to further her personal agenda, as she has acknowledged happened in the
case of pressuring the State’s top cop (see below).

As Mayor, Sarah fired Wasilla’s Police Chief because he “intimidated”
her, she told the press. As Governor, her recent firing of Alaska's top
cop has the ring of familiarity about it. He served at her pleasure
and she had every legal right to fire him, but it's pretty clear that
an important factor in her decision to fire him was because he wouldn't
fire her sister's ex-husband, a State Trooper. Under investigation
for abuse of power, she has had to admit that more than 2 dozen
contacts were made between her staff and family to the person that she
later fired, pressuring him to fire her ex-brother-in-law. She tried to
replace the man she fired with a man who she knew had been reprimanded
for sexual harassment; when this caused a public furor, she withdrew
her support.

She has bitten the hand of every person who extended theirs to her in
help. The City Council person who personally escorted her around town
introducing her to voters when she first ran for Wasilla City Council
became one of her first targets when she was later elected Mayor. She
abruptly fired her loyal City Administrator; even people who didn’t
like the guy were stunned by this ruthlessness.

Fear of retribution has kept all of these people from saying anything
publicly about her.

When then-Governor Murkowski was handing out political plums, Sarah got
the best, Chair of the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission: one
of the few jobs not in Juneau and one of the best paid. She had no
background in oil & gas issues. Within months of scoring this great
job which paid $122,400/yr, she was complaining in the press about the
high salary. I was told that she hated that job: the commute, the
structured hours, the work. Sarah became aware that a member of this
Commission (who was also the State Chair of the Republican Party)
engaged in unethical behavior on the job. In a gutsy move which some
undoubtedly cautioned her could be political suicide, Sarah solved all
her problems in one fell swoop: got out of the job she hated and
garnered gobs of media attention as the patron saint of ethics and as a
gutsy fighter against the “old boys’ club” when she dramatically quit,
exposing this man’s ethics violations (for which he was fined).

As Mayor, she had her hand stuck out as far as anyone for pork from
Senator Ted Stevens. Lately, she has castigated his pork-barrel
politics and publicly humiliated him. She only opposed the “bridge to
nowhere” after it became clear that it would be unwise not to.

As Governor, she gave the Legislature no direction and budget
guidelines, then made a big grandstand display of line-item vetoing
projects, calling them pork. Public outcry and further legislative
action restored most of these projects--which had been vetoed simply
because she was not aware of their importance--but with the unobservant
she had gained a reputation as “anti-pork”.

She is solidly Republican: no political maverick. The State party
leaders hate her because she has bit them in the back and humiliated
them. Other members of the party object to her self-description as a
fiscal conservative.

Around Wasilla there are people who went to high school with Sarah.
They call her “Sarah Barracuda” because of her unbridled ambition and
predatory ruthlessness. Before she became so powerful, very ugly
stories circulated around town about shenanigans she pulled to be made
point guard on the high school basketball team. When Sarah's
mother-in-law, a highly respected member of the community and
experienced manager, ran for Mayor, Sarah refused to endorse her.

As Governor, she stepped outside of the box and put together of package
of legislation known as “AGIA” that forced the oil companies to march
to the beat of her drum.

Like most Alaskans, she favors drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife
Refuge. She has questioned if the loss of sea ice is linked to
global warming. She campaigned “as a private citizen” against a state
initiaitive that would have either a) protected salmon streams from
pollution from mines, or b) tied up in the courts all mining in the
state (depending on who you listen to). She has pushed the State’s
lawsuit against the Dept. of the Interior’s decision to list polar
bears as threatened species.

McCain is the oldest person to ever run for President; Sarah will be a
heartbeat away from being President.

There has to be literally millions of Americans who are more
knowledgeable and experienced than she.

However, there’s a lot of people who have underestimated her and are
regretting it.


CLAIM VS FACT
•“Hockey mom”: true for a few years
•“PTA mom”: true years ago when her first-born was in elementary
school, not since
•“NRA supporter”: absolutely true
•social conservative: mixed. Opposes gay marriage, BUT vetoed a bill
that would have denied benefits to employees in same-sex relationships
(said she did this because it was unconsitutional).
•pro-creationism: mixed. Supports it, BUT did nothing as Governor to
promote it.
•“Pro-life”: mixed. Knowingly gave birth to a Down’s syndrome baby
BUT declined to call a special legislative session on some pro-life
legislation
•“Experienced”: Some high schools have more students than Wasilla has
residents. Many cities have more residents than the state of Alaska.
No legislative experience other than City Council. Little hands-on
supervisory or managerial experience; needed help of a city
administrator to run town of about 5,000.
•political maverick: not at all
•gutsy: absolutely!
•open & transparent: ??? Good at keeping secrets. Not good at
explaining actions.
•has a developed philosophy of public policy: no
•”a Greenie”: no. Turned Wasilla into a wasteland of big box stores
and disconnected parking lots. Is pro-drilling off-shore and in ANWR.
•fiscal conservative: not by my definition!
•pro-infrastructure: No. Promoted a sports complex and park in a city
without a sewage treatment plant or storm drainage system. Built
streets to early 20th century standards.
•pro-tax relief: Lowered taxes for businesses, increased tax burden on
residents
•pro-small government: No. Oversaw greatest expansion of city
government in Wasilla’s history.
•pro-labor/pro-union. No. Just because her husband works union
doesn’t make her pro-labor. I have seen nothing to support any claim
that she is pro-labor/pro-union.

WHY AM I WRITING THIS?

First, I have long believed in the importance of being an informed
voter. I am a voter registrar. For 10 years I put on student voting
programs in the schools. If you google my name (Anne Kilkenny +
Alaska), you will find references to my participation in local
government, education, and PTA/parent organizations.

Secondly, I've always operated in the belief that "Bad things happen
when good people stay silent". Few people know as much as I do because
few have gone to as many City Council meetings.

Third, I am just a housewife. I don't have a job she can bump me out
of. I don't belong to any organization that she can hurt. But, I am no
fool; she is immensely popular here, and it is likely that this will
cost me somehow in the future: that’s life.

Fourth, she has hated me since back in 1996, when I was one of the 100
or so people who rallied to support the City Librarian against Sarah's
attempt at censorship.

Fifth, I looked around and realized that everybody else was afraid to
say anything because they were somehow vulnerable.

CAVEATS
I am not a statistician. I developed the numbers for the increase in
spending & taxation 2 years ago (when Palin was running for Governor)
from information supplied to me by the Finance Director of the City of
Wasilla, and I can't recall exactly what I adjusted for: did I adjust
for inflation? for population increases? Right now, it is impossible
for a private person to get any info out of City Hall--they are
swamped. So I can't verify my numbers.

You may have noticed that there are various numbers circulating for the
population of Wasilla, ranging from my "about 5,000", up to 9,000. The
day Palin’s selection was announced a city official told me that the
current population is about 7,000. The official 2000 census count was
5,460. I have used about 5,000 because Palin was Mayor from 1996 to
2002, and the city was growing rapidly in the mid-90’s.

Anne Kilkenny
August 31, 2008

Birthday Months, and the Big 40...

BIRTHDAY MONTH, THE BIG FOUR O, AND BECOMING ONE OF THEM...

Alright. I know you're thinking. Sure, the Big FOUR O. Nice try Christopher. Didn't you already already reach that milestone, like - 10 years ago? No no.

I'm talking about the big 40 POUNDS. I hit that mark today. My goal as many of you know is to lose 100 pounds by July 2009. So, I'm on track I think to do that. I'm getting some more saline this week and that should help because it's taken me three weeks to go from 38 lbs to 40lb weight loss.

So, we've kind of leveled off. But that's ok, we're still headed in the right direction and they said this would happen!

The birthday is coming up this month and I can't believe time marches on. Here's some fun looks I've held over the years. So you can see, I'm not the same person I always was. Yet, there's something familiar that carries on from year to year.

I'm blessed to have my health, a great group of friends, and a wonderful family. Just thought I'd share that with you this Sunday afternoon.

Oh and "IT" happened today. Someone mentioned the UT Tower at campus was aglow in orange and I immediately turned and said, "that's because we won! We beat UTEP 42-13!" And, then I caught myself. I "knew" the score of a game! Oh, shit. I'm becoming one of THEM. Yikes. (Go Longhorns)

Oh, the fun pictures I got from a website called yearbookyourself.com. Fun stuff, try it out.

Be well - happy Sunday.

And, Now - A Non Political Message; Approved by Me

OK, people. I'll lighten up! But, for reals -- it may be a long political season. I won't even go into tonight's convention highlights.

So here's a lighter note. Our friend Eric from last week's Bowlathon. Enjoy.

Who the Baby Daddy?

I really don't care that Bristol Palin is pregnant. The underlying feeling I'm sure most folks have is that they don't care either. What creates such an uproar in times like this isn't so much the morals, or lack of morals depending on your perspective but the appearance that a finger pointer has had their finger turned around.

The danger of a party that positions itself as the only party having the moral authority or high ground is that there will be those that will look to see if you practice what you preach. I don't think what Bristol has been engaging in is immoral, but it has been interesting to see the peddling, juggling and spinning going on.

And all of this does call into question how well vetted Palin was before McCain selected her as a running mate. Sure his campaign has indicated they knew in advance. That's possible. But I think it's highly unlikely that they would have let the story unravel the way it has. If they did know and allowed the media to make a circus of the topic, it speaks more to their competency to run a campaign - and by extension the country.

As the days of the campaign draw out, one wonders what other news bits the McCain campaign knows about their VP pick that they haven't disclosed yet. Are they waiting to see if the media picks up on it - and THEN claim they knew all along? Will they be forced to back pedal at any time and claim they'd like to take a mulligan on the pick?

I don't know if her decision to have the baby speaks to the family's high regard for 'life' in as much as the story of how she was carted off to clinic would be unspinnable.

Now the only questions to be answered is girl or boy? and what name, and what will the nursery look like? Oh, and when she marry the baby daddy - will the pro-gun-toting-momma-in-law be standing by to make sure all "I do's" go as planned? That would be some executive leadership.

Telethons and the Elusive BCHF Factor Not Yet Accounted For

Alright, I thought I had seen it all but it appears that this upcoming campaign is going to be a one upmanship of you ain't seen nothing yet!

Latest on the gall front is the Republican proposal to turn their convention into something akin to a Jerry Lewis Telethon. Before Gustav has even arrived yet, the dark side has already begun a spun of how to try and take a national disaster and use it to their benefit.

Folks, I'm talking about a get-out-the-hankies-and-the-credit-card and let's call in a pledge, tacky.

Now. Don't get me wrong. I'm not against providing to relief to those in crisis. I'm not against the Red Cross. I'm not against helping anyone in our nation who needs assistance. What I find distasteful about this proposal (clink title above to link to the NPR article) is taking what should clearly be a non-partison, all-hands, every-American-pitch-in event and try and make it into a Republican versus Democrat, who-can-be-more-compassionate bull-shit-athon.

Really - if this is only the latest shot of the campagne and not the be all end all, my stomach may completely turn before I ever get to the polls!

And, all the while the media both "liberal" and Anti-Decency-Fox-Network outlets claim to have some insight into the process that we all lack. That Obama's numbers fall while McCains' rise and somehow they are supposed to be neck and neck. Are you blind? Did you not see the largest collected audience in political convention history last week? Are your fingers so numb from spinning hype that there's no feeling left in the finger-tips to even FEEL the pulse of America?

What the media isn't taking into account is a as-yet-unnamed or explained index I like to call the BCHF index.

What that is, is - the BUSH CHENEY HATE FACTOR. Like most Americans I will watch the debates. I may weigh the pros and cons of each side. I'll put on my thoughtful face and see if Palin has any redeeming factors what-so-ever (so far, we're coming up way short). And, I'll grimace at the thought of Hillary's disaffected jumping ship to a McCain ticket.

But just before the polls, people will look at the current administration and man, woman, liberal, middle-of-the-road, Clinton-loving, Black, White, Gay, Straight, Purple-people-eating alike will all say "WHAT WAS I THINKING!?" "Four more years of anything resembling the current Domestic-Axis-of-Evil is just plain LUNACY".

Why don't I just take my retirement and load it into the toilet and pull the handle? Why don't I just push my Prius off a cliff? Because at this pace, the cost of fuel won't even allow me to fill up that tank. Why don't I just stack my furniture furniture into a pyramid and light it on fire? Because if, I live in an oil-heated home, it may be my only option of staying alive this winter. Or, why don't I just lock myself in a bubble, like John Travolta in that movie from the 70's because if I ever get any kind of communicable disease or anything require more than Aspirin, it will be the equivalent to a death sentence without health insurance!

No. The BCHF will kick in and this could be a landslide election the likes of which my generation has only seen on the History Channel. I firmly believe this.

That does not dissolve my necessity to get out and vote, or to talk at every opportunity or do whatever I can to help - but in the end - I trust my neighbors and community aren't suicidal-lunatic-401k flushing-Ditto-heads - DESPITE what media polls may show today, they will come to their senses, and do the right thing.

There's no way at this juncture to account for the BCHF - but as we get closer to election time: Watch Out.

On the Way to San Antonio

.

My friend Daniel, aka Miss Tution is visiting and we're going to head out to the San Antonio Round Up.

We're having a slow morning because we were up late last night visiting. So here he is with his coffee and I'm having pomegranate tea.

But crawling back in to bed seems like an option.
www.everythingchristopher.blogspot.com

Labor Day Saturday in Austin Texas

I'm having pomegranate tea this morning. It's a white tea that they sell at Trader Joe's in Sacramento so I'm missing California just a wee bit this morning.

They don't have Trader Joe's here (yet), and it's one of those places you don't realize how much you love, until it's not just down the street anymore!

Kelly was sweet enough to remember that I loved this tea and shipped it to me from Sacramento, wasn't that nice of her!?

This picture is the dots from the Blanton Museum here in Austin. It's a great museum and when you pay your admission the give you a dot to put on your shirt.

Once people walk out they tend to put all the dots on the telephone polls outside the museum. So, walking down the street after, there were dots all over the place!

My Weight Progress as of August 2008

So, I wanted to provide a visual for my friends and family on my progress. But, I need to do this as much for myself to give myself some encouragement since I've hit a short plateau.

Plateaus of course are natural. It levels off before some more weight loss, but you know how anxious I am! So, here's a visual reminder for myself and so that you can see too how far I've come, really in just a short time. It averages to just under a half a pound a day. Which, is pretty good!

There. I said it, "Pretty Good!".

Be well.

Bowlathon 2008

Good times
Originally uploaded by ChristopherSolis.

We had a great time this weekend bowling with friends. Here's a picture of our friend Eric and Rob.

Which one is the real blond huh?

Hmm.
www.everythingchristopher.blogspot.com

Just a Pretty Window

photo.jpg
Originally uploaded by ChristopherSolis.

Was in New Orleans and went into this hat shop. They do custom couture hats, that are - unbelievable. We had a good laugh, as everyone there was so nice.

I showed them princess la la's glowing shoe and they were mesmerized - as is everyone who sees it!

Another Fun Weekend In Austin - Blinding Performance

We had a wonderful weekend. Our friend Eric had his family visiting from West Virginia so we had a pool party at Janis' Dog House. There was swimming and Wii. We played Rock Band and it was great fun, including a fantastic rendition of Roxanne by Wishbone. Awesome.

Saturday was the Queer Idol show fund raiser. I sang with Eric accompanying on the piano. He was awesome! I, on the other hand, went completely blank in the bright lights. The spotlight was so blinding that I forgot what I was going to sing. It was really like that Brady Bunch episode where Cindy Brady goes blank looking at the camera light. Yikes.

It was also the weekend where Jon moved in, aka: Selena Medina our friend the Latina. We've been friends for a little while now so I think this should work out well. The only draw back is that I don't have a poor picture of him in all of my gallery of photos. I mean - WHO takes a perfect picture everytime? Never one with the eyes closed, or mouth contorted. Wow. Like a freak of nature. I'm determined to get a seriously ugly picture of him. We'll see if I'm successful or not.

I hope you all are doing well. I'm currently 246 from a start weight of 280. So, plugging along! Slowly but surely!

Take care and keep us updated on what's going on with you!

So pictures from top to bottom:

1. Our friend Felony Conviction aka Jeremy. I prefer to call him Miss Demeanor.

2. Rob and Jon, painting Jon's room on move in day (August 2, 2008)

3. Jon, trying to catch him spontaneously in an ugly pose. Nope.

4. Princess Ethel Karen, Desha and Linda at Q.I. 2008.

5. Our friends Heidi Ho and Miss Monique at Q.I. 2008.

6. Janis working the camera at Q.I. 2008.

The Weekend of So Much Fun

Well, I lost more weight this week. Now, it's 246 from a start of 280. So, slowly but surely. We had our Idol weekend last Saturday. Where I sang (or attempted to, no really - attempted) and Eric played the piano. He did such a good job! I wish I'd practiced more because he worked so hard and when the lights hit me it was like that episode of when Cindy Brady goes on TV. I was all .. what? duh.

Eric was so sweet and played a few extra stanzas until I could remember what the damn words were! It was horrible and we didn't make it even into the top 7. Sorry Eric! I'll try harder next time! If there ever is one.

We worked to clean up the hall on Sunday as we have been for a few weeks now. And, Friday was Eric's pool party. His family came to visit from West Virginia so we were over at Janis' playing the Wii and having a great time.

I hope you're doing well! If you haven't checked out facebook lately, I've been uploading pictures and stuff - so check it out at facebook.com

Take care!

This I Believe - Essay

Alright Rob.. stop nagging! ...or, the next essay of "This I Believe" I write will be .. "I Believe in the Lethality of Whining". LOL.

I wrote an essay for NPR's series of "This I believe". After several months, still no word.

We were driving in the car the other day listening to a podcast of the NPR program and I mentioned, off-the-cuff, "Oh. I wrote an essay and sent it in sometime ago but haven't heard from KUT the local NPR affiliate". He was all.. "what?"

So after Rob read it he insisted I post it on here and even instituted a deadline. So, here it is....

This I Believe. I Believe in Matrimony:

At an alter two years ago I stood surrounded by my friends and family. I resisted this day. Not because I didn’t love the man I was about to give my vow to, not because I had any particular fear, or cold feet about it. It was a decision we made, together, years before based on testimony from those who had ventured down the isle before us – many who found themselves disillusioned by ugly divorces and broken hearts. “Unnecessary”, or some variation, some had called it. And up until the moment I looked around, accompanied by those who had brought me life and through it I couldn’t deny that my non-belief in matrimony was being dispelled.

I arrived at this day, not because I’d had a sudden nuptial-epiphany. It occurred to me in Christmas 2005 that my parents were aging. For years my Mother and family had inquired if we were ever going to get married. “Unnecessary” or some variation of the answer I’d respond. I was delicate – not wanting to appear uncaring for their belief in a tradition that they nearly all had taken part in.

It was encouraging that they held such a high regard for an institution so many of my friends disparaged. But as I watched my Mother standing over a steaming pot of Tamales, as she had for a multitude of Christmas eves and my Father appearing non-phased by the overexcited grand children asking if they could open their gifts – that all of a sudden tradition seemed to be something impermanent. It would require successive generations to carry on these tasks and to reinvest in their importance for them to continue. It was in that moment that I realized if I changed my mind about the “necessity” of matrimony those that I would want most with me on that day, might not be here.

I became emboldened through my melancholy and before I knew the words were coming out of my mouth, I asked my family “What do you think about a wedding?” My sister in law Gina stopped stirring the beans, my Sister Rocki looked up from the table, and my mother, who is a stroke-survivor, did her unsuccessful best to not contort her face before she began to cry.

I recall these memories now that I live in Texas, far from my family in Sacramento.

I remember the lovely April day - rainy on the outside - sunny on the inside. We decided to make it a surprise wedding – another story in itself. But after 16 years, I was fairly assured that Rob wouldn’t decline the proposal.

In the moments before our walk began, I peered down from the balcony at the gathered guests, array of family-favorite wedding cakes and Mariachi musicians and I was assured I was doing the right thing.

And in that moment, when I said “I do”, it was though I was responding to the question, “Do you believe in marriage?” “I do.”

Christopher lives in Austin, Texas with his Husband Rob. They celebrate their wedding Anniversary, April 2nd. They've been together since October, 1989.

The Most Awesome July Ever

So we're recovering from our 4th of July weekend, that was packed with so much fun. We enjoyed spending time with friends and enjoying the fireworks. Our friend David TMT hosted a wonderful rooftop party to watch the fireworks over downtown. I made a 4-layer berry biegnet. It was tasty and tall. Then we celebrated our friend Rob's birthday at the Romeos restaurant on Barton Springs. It was good food and great fun. Earlier that morning we had taken our aim at trying disc-golf for the first time. We went to Zilker Park to meet with Mike and Jeff and throw the disc around. It was a good time. Then that evening we were back at Zilker Park at the theatre to see Beauty and the Beast. Our friend Leslie was onstage as Lumier the candelabra. What fun that was! We had a dessert picnic and it was a lovely evening. On the weight loss front it hadn't been going well. I began to refer to my lapband as the hoola-hoop because it was about as big and about as effective at stopping/slowing food into the stomach. Holy jamoly. All that money, time and effort - and nothing. But, that was just me being discouraged and not getting results from the scale as fast as I'd like. I've now gone to the Drs. office and had a new saline fill. This time they added some more at my request - and I can already tell the difference, and it's only been 48 hours. I'm hardly eating but don't feel like I'm suffering so much. I don't know if I feel "full" as much as I feel nauseous at the thought of eating. But hey, I'm not starving - and that was what I most feared. I hate feeling deprived and hungry and I haven't felt either of those things. Let's see how it goes. Starting weight: 280 - Today: 253.

Mom and Rock Visit Austin

Mom and Rocki came to Austin last week and we had a great time. The weather was warm and sunny (ok, blazing hot and sunny) but we did get a thunderous shower with Texas-size hail while they were here and that broke up the weather for just an afternoon. Thank goodness it wasn't that pelting hail that dents cars, that we've heard so much about.

We did so much over the weekend they were here it's really amazing. I told my co-workers when I returned to work and they were stunned that I dragged my poor mother all over the tourist guide when she was here, but it was all fun fun fun.

Last weekend was fun too. We went to the movies to see Mary Poppins. I don't know that I've every really watched the whole movie from beginning to end, so that was fun. The film even broke in the middle of the showing which made us all laugh and remember that's what it used to be like going to the movies.

This weekend is the 4th of July and it will be my first in Texas. I'm not sure what they do around here for the holiday itself. I'm sure there's fireworks or something. We'll be going on Sunday to the Zilker Theatre in the Barton Springs park to see Beauty and the Beast. Our friend Leslie is playing the role of Lumiere and we're anxious to spend the day with Aunt Bea and celebrate his birthday.

I hope this writing finds you well. I'm doing pretty good. I'm 254 today down from 280 on May 20th. So, let's see that makes an average of just over 4 lbs a week. So, pretty good. I'm feeling better and although I don't really "see" any changes yet, folks around me say they do. So, I haven't had to buy any new clothes yet, we'll see if that changes soon too.

A Hopeful Story - Edith Macefield

Here's a story.. about a stubborn old woman who refused to sell her home worth $120k for even a million dollars. She only wanted to die on the couch that her mother died on, in the home she bought for her in 1955. So, while the rest of the world built up around her, she remained steadfast and in her modest home, and her old blue car.

Here's the original story, the most recent story can be found by clicking on the title of the blogpost: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/333917_macefield02.html

It's a wonderful story I came across a few months ago, and now she's passed away. But, she died exactly as she wanted. In her little home, on the same couch in the same way her mother passed away.

Oh No. In Memoriam

I only really have one source of political news that I trusted.. and that was Tim Russert. I'm so saddened by his passing. From his weekly Meet the Press show where we got to watch him grill politicians and others with questions no one else seemed to be asking, to his daily appearances on the Today show - I always looked to Tim for the "True" perspective of things.

I didn't really trust anyone else because Tim always seemed to boil it down and provide the big picture in all his assessments. And, he was excited about the process of elections and it made me excited too. I record the Today show, mostly so when I come home rather than watching the current line-up of pathetic newscasters - I could catch up with just a few-minute segment with Tim instead.

This is such a great loss - and really - at this point - I don't know where I'll get the straight scoop anymore.

How It's Going So Far

So, I hadn't updated my blog like I hoped I would because I was feeling pretty poorly right after surgery. But, I'm feeling great now, so no more excuses.

Beginning weight 280, Current weight 257

I went to Austin Surgical Hospital in the morning of my surgery. The folks there were very nice. I went ahead and cut all my hair off so I wouldn't have to do the dirty hair thing in the hospital - gross.

The surgery itself was good except that those lovely folks could not find my veins for the I.V. Fourteen pokes later and calling in the Anesthesiologist to find the vein and I was out in no time at all. I remember being wheeled into the operating room and even moving over to the table. But, then it was me waking up. It didn't hurt too bad, I was mostly just tired. I was sore too but mostly feeling nausea from the gas that they use. They fill you with gas to move around inside you, so that gets trapped inside once they close you up. It feels like indigestion but only worse.

After I got home, I was on the couch for a week. I thought I'd bounce right up maybe 2, or at the most three days later. Nope.

The pain medication made me feel like a zombie and I was nauseous and had a fever. It was difficult to hold down even water. I didn't throw-up once. That's good because that's one of the things they warn about as you don't want your band to slip. Unfortunately I got so dehydrated and potassium deficient I was extremely weak and my legs felt like they were on fire! No - really. On fire.

But once the fever went away and I could eat a smashed banana and have some water, all was better. I wasn't able to go back to work the second week after all. I was still too sore. My bruising on my stomach didn't start until the second week and then it was so painful, I could hardly move. I stopped taking the pain medication however because I just felt foggy, not better, because of it.

In fact, I think I really started getting better when I stopped taking that medication.

So, I'm back at work. I'm feeling great. Although I haven't had my first saline fill. I'm expecting to do that next week - and I'll let you know how it goes. I'm not looking forward to it, because it means more needles. God, I hate those! But I am anxious to have the fill because my appetite has been growing. And, without the restriction of the band, there's not much to keep me from eating.

The nurse at the clinic said, "well, until we get your band filled you'll just have to restrain yourself. Just don't eat."

Hello?! If it were that simple - would I have needed the surgery in the first place? Thought not.

I'll be happy to let you know how I'm progressing but folks have already said they've seen progress. I don't so much see it yet, but my pants do fit just a little looser but I haven't gone down a size or anything yet. I hope you're doing well - and I look forward to seeing you soon.