When I have too much time on my hands...

[michellesamom]

I'm currently , down and out. Thankfully I have a wonderful MIL who has come over every day this week, made soup, taken care of Peanut and just generally rolled up her sleeves and pitched in (she's amazing).
In between cups of tea and soup, I started looking at the election (Canadians are going to the polls  Oct 14) and reading, and the researcher in me popped right out to say hi (excuse the flowery language, I'm hopped up on meds).
I think my blog is changing... or maybe it's just all part of being a mom and wanting to look out for our kids... and everyone else's too.
Is the maternal political? Can a mom's blog also be a political blog? I guess I'm about to find out. I found myself writing two posts today. One is about the election (and coverage of the election) and the other is about poo. Okay, maybe they're not COMPLETELY unrelated 

[Audrey]

I've not read your blog yet, but here's my thoughts. If you express political opinions on your blog you will "upset" those who don't share your beliefs. So then you have to examine the purpose of your blog. There is not a right or wrong here, it's a matter of who you want reading your blog and what direction you want it to go. There are many political bloggers out there. They are absolutely thrilled to start a war, er debate

[Dorseybell]

I looked at your blog and I can appreciate wanting to get your political views in there.  I agree with Audrey, its a slippery slope.  Granted, I am having a little trouble following your particular views, as I'm in the US and I believe you're reporting on Canadian politics. 

Good luck on the politics AND potty training.  hehe

[Cheese&Whine]

I say that your blog is a place to "let it all out."  Whatever the heck you feel, write it.
Well, that's just my opinion.  But, I kind of use my blog as "therapy."  As my online diary.  Just write about what I am thinking.  Sometimes I even forget that I have readers. 
Yea, you may offend some, but maybe those are the readers you don't want in the first place. 
I kind of think it is fun to read others point of views that may differ than mine.  And hear about their potty  training sagas as well!
Best of luck...
Off to check out your blog!
Tracey

[michellesamom]

Thanks guys.
I guess since I'm not making money off my blog or trying to attract a "specific" audience, I don't really worry too much about offending. I read blogs from a variety of points of view and I can usually tell if someone's politics are very different from my own. Actually, I almost prefer it sometimes. It gives me insight into how others think, and I don't think that's ever a bad thing.
Regardless, my theory is that we all have motherhood in common, we're all trying to look out for the best interests of our children and children everywhere, we may just do it a little differently.
Yes, I am reporting on Canadian politics (though I'm very interested in American politics as well, I feel it's more authentic to write about what's going on in my own country). I have not decided who I will be voting for yet, but I figure that my journey might be the journey that other mothers go on when trying to decide what will be best for their families and whether they agree or disagree with my choices, we're all on this journey together... right?
Or am I being too idealistic here?

Has anyone else felt the urge to be more politically active (or active in community, church or other groups that benefit society) since they had kids? I have always volunteered my time, but since I became a mom, it has become even more important for me... I'm more driven to do things I guess...

Oh, and an update: I'm now officially on antibiotics because apparently what I have is more than "just a virus"... so looks like another couple of days in bed before I can enjoy this beautiful fall weather... Which gives me lots of time to check out your blogs 

[emsplace]

Well,
I blog about whatever I want. Politics included. And I am a lifelong Republican voting Democrat for the first time, so it makes for interesting rants sometimes.
I care two ___ what anyone thinks about it because I blog for me. Yes, I started blogging for friends/family that lives so far away and it is easier than sending lengthy, picture filled emails... But I blog what I am feeling, not what others expect me to say.

And yes, I have always been an environmental person of sorts... but my goal is to be greener and  learn more about preserving the world that I put my child into! I also am a better person now that I am a mom. I think it's a natural thing...

Take care and feel better.
emily

[michellesamom]

Well,
I blog about whatever I want. Politics included. And I am a lifelong Republican voting Democrat for the first time, so it makes for interesting rants sometimes.
I care two ___ what anyone thinks about it because I blog for me. Yes, I started blogging for friends/family that lives so far away and it is easier than sending lengthy, picture filled emails... But I blog what I am feeling, not what others expect me to say.

And yes, I have always been an environmental person of sorts... but my goal is to be greener and  learn more about preserving the world that I put my child into! I also am a better person now that I am a mom. I think it's a natural thing...

Take care and feel better.
emily

Thanks Emily!
I find it fascinating that you have decided to vote a different way this time. What made you change your mind? (And I'm sorry if that's too personal a question, feel free to ignore)

[emsplace]

Believe it or not... I don't mind answering.
I think politics in America is almost reversed, as far as parties are concerned. I've always been a fairly LIBERAL Republican - in terms of things like women's rights (abortion for instance... I don't think it should be used a birth control and I do think regulation is in order, but I believe in a woman's right to choose and that Govt. should stay out of it) - where many staunch right (very conservative) Republicans think they have the right to tell us all what to do - with our bodies, with medical research, with what books our children can read, etc... when a long time ago - the Republican party was LESS GOVT, now they seem to be MORE GOVT. in some cases.
On the other hand, I think the Democrats tend to give too much to people who just have their hands out and don't want to EARN it. Like Welfare. It was originally instituted to be a "hand up" and now it is a generational way off life and costing tax payers a fortune.
But I believe in Medical for ALL!
I don't believe in tax loopholes for corporations or rich Americans that cost us Middle-classers EVERYTHING! And I don't believe so many Americans should get everything for NOTHING... and then complain because it is never enough.
Honestly - I long for an America where we are AMERICAN's not Democrats/Republicans... and I really feel like Barack Obama has that same focus. Whether we can ever really do it - is doubtful... but it sure would be nice.  I believe in an America where people take responsibility for their mistakes and teach their children right from wrong -- too much "free will" makes for screwed up youth - as we are witnessing now in America and have been for a couple decades.  I believe in an America where Rich help the poor and do what is right. Where the poor don't mind working and not having say "five more kids" while on welfare - which only decreases their chance to be successful and stand on their own two feet.
And I dislike McCain so much, because when my husband was in the Military he didn't vote to raise our salary. But he did vote to raise his - and that basically says all I need to know about him. And Mrs. Palin - she doesn't believe in women's rights to their own body... and I find that scary!
There is more... but some moms are likely poking their eyes out in horror... I apologize if I've offended anyone....

emily

[Aimee]

When I come across a post about political things in any blog, I sorta just pass it by.  I really don't like to be political, and I don't have much knowledge about it all, or have the desire to read all the stuff that is going around right now.

So if you were to post something political, no offense---but I just wouldn't read it. LOL  I think its your blog, and you can put what ya want.  Since it is your blog-if someone leaves ya a nasty comment, you can delete it!

[michellesamom]

Emily,
I find it sad when people are bogged down by party loyalty. I'm glad that you've thought through the issues and are voting for what you want. I see people who claim to be on one side or the other, but more often than not, I find one is not on the same side for every issue. It's what's making the decision so challenging for me. I'm usually on the left as well, especially when it comes to social issues.
I'm just glad that so many people are excited about the election in the states... I hope it translates into higher voter turnout... and I hope it rubs off on Canadians and that they turn out to vote in higher numbers than in the past...

[Mom2ConnorRyan]

I am the kind of person that will read a blog if I like no matter what their veiws might be on well anything.  Also it is your blog and you should be able to freely write what you want.  Hope you get to feeling better.

[emsplace]

I just hope people in the US start to do a little more digging and really BOTHER to find out how bills turn into laws and what goes on...
and who these folks are who are running for office.
And yes, I do hope they turn out in HUGE numbers.
We shall see.
take care,
emily

[Nancy]

Congratulations Em, on finding out for yourself what you want for America.  The funny thing is I really think this is what all Americans want, but a lot of Americans have a hard time tuning into what is really going on, a large part of that, I think, is the negative campaigns.  It really turns people off.  Everyone of us needs to educate ourselves on who is running, what their opinions are, and what they have voted  for.  You will find things you do not like about each candidate, but you need to decide what your priorities are and go with the candidate that meets those goals. Who is going to make a better life for your children?  The world is changing and we need someone who recognizes and is ready to act on it.

Some don't like either candidate and will not show up at the polling stations, that is a real crime. 

I am 60 years old, I started voting when I turned 21, and I have never seen so much interest in a presidential election that I am seeing this year.  It is good for our country and the world.  I have voted for both Republicans and Democrats, I have always tried to vote for the man/woman regardless of party.  I will do the same this year, but it will not be McCain/Palin...they really scare me.  We fought to hard for the rights we have and they are in jeopardy.

[emsplace]

Congratulations Em, on finding out for yourself what you want for America.  The funny thing is I really think this is what all Americans want, but a lot of Americans have a hard time tuning into what is really going on, a large part of that, I think, is the negative campaigns.  It really turns people off.  Everyone of us needs to educate ourselves on who is running, what their opinions are, and what they have voted  for.  You will find things you do not like about each candidate, but you need to decide what your priorities are and go with the candidate that meets those goals. Who is going to make a better life for your children?  The world is changing and we need someone who recognizes and is ready to act on it.

Some don't like either candidate and will not show up at the polling stations, that is a real crime. 

I am 60 years old, I started voting when I turned 21, and I have never seen so much interest in a presidential election that I am seeing this year.  It is good for our country and the world.  I have voted for both Republicans and Democrats, I have always tried to vote for the man/woman regardless of party.  I will do the same this year, but it will not be McCain/Palin...they really scare me.  We fought to hard for the rights we have and they are in jeopardy.

I have always just voted Republican because I thought it was right... yes, I did research, no I didn't always like the candidate... but was raised to vote conservative all the way. But... not this time!
I totally agree that not voting is a HUGE crime... and I do also think that McCain/Palin really are scary! Wow... just type in Alaskanomics and you will get an earful of truth... WOW

[Candid Carrie]

I dont' blog about politics and I don't read others blogs about politics, especially if it is a blog I have really enjoyed in the past.  I avoid the controversial matters and even the topic of PETA stays off my blog. 

But that's just passive/aggressive keep-everybody-happy ME