Happy Labor Day 2012 :The day of the American Worker

Happy Labor Day 2012, I hope this day finds you and yours healthy, happy, fed, and EMPLOYED.  With so many people still looking for work, and so many have had to take jobs paying less than they were making before the recession. 

Today I pray for those who are looking for work, those who have taken jobs for less, those who have given up to be encouraged.  I pray for the American dream to be rekindled in the life of this country.
I pray blessings on the laborers of this country.

In a few months we will have the opportunity to vote for what we want for this country.  On this Labor Day, I want to encourage you to consider carefully which politcal platform best represents your views, hopes, and dreams for our country. Please get registered to vote, and go vote in November.

But today, celebrate the opportunity to work toward your dreams, hope and goals.

HAPPY LABOR DAY! 

I'M BAAAK...I THINK

Please excuse my absence from the blogoshere of late.  With the move and work schedule, I have not had much time for blogging.  Yet my mind races with things to blog about, so over the next few days I will attempt to blog these.

First, there is work!  My work schedule is crazy, I have been asked by more than one person how I keep track of it and how I do it.  The only answer I have is, I just do it.  Then usually pay a price for privately, either by not being available or physically able to do something I would like to. Fortunately, I have been blessed with a couple of good friends who seem to be able to get me out and about when I really need it. My work hours are either feast or famine, right now I'm in a "feast'... but  I am sooo tired. Last night was the first night in several weeks I was on call that I did not have even one call.  However, I was up and out at the crack of dawn to work, and the pages started as I was en route.  Then it was one crisis after another up until my relief arrived. I did not have the chance to round on the patient floors. So since I had the opportunity to leave early I did,  and napped for a few hours.

This feast will continue through the weekend, with an 8 hour in house shift tomorrow, then on-call through Saturday morning.  Then two 10 hour in house shifts, ending the weekend with an on call shift.

Next week the new CPE students start so the feast will end.  I just hope to be able to maintain the regular hours I have. I also hope to be able to substitute teach some. it would be different from anything I have done, and who knows where it might lead.

Stay tuned for future issues!


 

Monday Medley: I Just Can't Get Enough

Today is the final day of my lease, the final cleanings took place, I gave a whole bunch of things I don't use, have no room for at the new place.
The past few weeks have been exciting, starting a new adventure, a different place.  It has also been a little sad in some ways.  I am determined not to dwell on that.  It's time to move on from those thoughts, and experiences.  I may write more about that later.
 Hope you enjoy today's music selection.

http://youtu.be/OrTyD7rjBpw

Monday Medley: Usher and Pending Move

Good Monday! Two more days until I move to a new apartment! I'm ready emotionally, but not particularly with everything.  I'm not making a big deal about this move. One different aspect of this move is the addition of a room-mate.  Never thought I would have a room-mate, but I believe this is the right person for me to share an apartment with. The right time and so forth.

Today, I want to share a song by one of my favorite performers... Usher.  I hope you enjoy!

 http://youtu.be/xiJt1fSVY2E

Gay Marriage and the Episcopal Church

As a Christian who happens to be gay, I follow with great interest anything denominational organizations say or vote on pertaining to equality for the GLBT community. Three such declarations have occurred this summer.

First, the Presbyterian USA General Conference debated and voted against changing language in favor of same sex unions. Well since the local Presbyteries must ratify it, and then can interpret the rule according to majority vote.  I don't think it makes much difference.

Second, the Methodist Church at its General Conference, decided not to change anything about its policy toward the GLBT community. They even strengthened policy to state that the local churches cannot vote to or publicly disagree with Church policy. If I read the statement correctly.

Then there is the Episcopal Church, which recently approved the official blessings of Same Sex Unions. This denomination was one of the first to ordain women, the first to have an openly gay Bishop. This church is on the cutting edge of cultural change and acceptance. I think they seek to be faithful to Biblical teaching in regards to what is truly important. Model the acceptance Jesus Christ sought to bring.  They are one of few denominations who are open to our community.  Perhaps will have the opportunity to reach our community.  If I were not already credentialed and it was not such a long road to change, I might make a move. I applaud the Episcopal Church welcoming the opportunity to minister to the LGBT community.

Again same sex marriage is about love between two men or two woman who make a family.  I am glad they have done this. 

In Memoriam: Marvin Hamlisch

If you ever doubted to power and impact one person can have in this world...Think of this one man.  he gave us  music that has shaped our musical world, the music of movies.  He gave us memories.

As another famous entertainer use to sing "Thanks for the Memories"

The music of Marvin Hamlisch

http://youtu.be/5DDrIWD2yKc

Its All About Love

Love is patient, love is kind, is not jealous, love does not brag, is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly, it does not seeks its own... Abide Faith, Hope, Love but the greatest of these is LOVE.
I Cor 13: 4,5,13.

The greatest most lasting thing in life is love. The love of a parent for a child, love between friends, romantic love, God's love for His created, the love God gives for us all.. True love does not propagate hate.  The hate that kills a group of people because they are "different." Hate that denies rights because one is "different."

The issue of Gay Marriage has been made to be a religious issue, a political issue, I believe a hate issue...religious bigotry and hate. Marriage is a human institution, God created man and woman, NOT the institution of marriage. 

The root of marriage is supposed to about LOVE and a commitment. If a same sex couple loves each other enough to want to make that type of official commitment...they should be able to. I thank God a couple gay or straight does have to be married to love and be committed to one another. Not being able to marry is not going to stop the commitment. its about a relationship.

I found a video i want to share, its not about gay marriage but what god's love and faith are supposed to be about.

http://youtu.be/3YXINEYdnkY

Love is about relationship, God's love is about a relationship with Him.  Not a set of rules to follow, or a particular organized group to belong to.  Its about LOVE

Monday Medley: Big House

Happy Monday! Its raining here, blah rainy Mondays.  I just finished what I call a marathon of work hours.  Many hours, which is good since I need the hours, and I enjoy the ministry. It can be draining, and the last 3 days have been very draining.  But today is for self care.

today's song is from the Christian rock group Audio Adrenalin. I love most of their music and find meaning in it. Although this group is no longer together, their music is relevant.  I hope you enjoy.

http://youtu.be/M4WwQxmtb-s

Chicken and Gay Marriage

Well since I posted my thoughts about Chik Fil A (CFA) seems more has been publicised about the CEO's comments.  There are protests of support and counter protests. In certain parts of the south, folks have responded to a call to show support for CFA, others have responded to a call to counter protest.  In Atlanta its known as the kissing protest.  I am not aware of very large crowds in the CFA's around here.  Though news reports stated business as brisk. There are no reports thus far of counter protests at local stores. RATS, I was hoping there would be a show of support reported around here for gay marriage.

As for me, I have not bought anything from CFA since the statement was made. Partly protest, partly other reasons. A comment was made on my last post (see Eat More Chikin 07/29) about CFA's financial support of legislation against equality. That was very true.  So why should I spend my hard earned dollar with a company that is using that dollar to support groups that lobby for laws that limit my rights as a gay man? 

I have decided  to forgo my weekly  run to CFA for the foreseeable future. I will spend that part of my self care dollar elsewhere. I don't think I can enjoy a CFA meal again anytime soon.

No one should be forced into a corner over another persons belief system! No one should have religion in any form shoved  (excuse me) legislated down their throat.  THIS IS THE UNITED STATES AFTER ALL!!!  Its 2012, we have blended families, married, not married, what constitutes a family has been redefined. A group of friends living together is a family, Extended family living together is a family (unit) and I could go on.

If any couple gay, str8, or whatever love each other enough to make a marriage kind of commitment, be it civil or religious why stop them?  The far right tea party group (and those like them) is creating an atmosphere of fear, hate, more fear and hate. I hope the silent majority will soon speak up and out. Especially get out and vote!

Wow I am meandering on about this issue.  I invite you to comment, (with civility) I also invite you to join me in spending your Chicken dollars elsewhere. Perhaps one day I will be able to legally marry and have it accepted in all 50 states. At least that is my hope, if not for this generation or my life time, but for those in the future.

By the way, legal marriage is a  creation of man.  Creator God did not create the human institution of marriage with all its earthly responsibilities, commitments, and benefits.

Musical Monday

Its Monday once again.  Time for another musical Monday. Today I am posting a song that was very popular a few years ago.  I recently re-discovered this song and thought I would post it here today.

Please check out yesterday's post too, I would like to hear your opinions on this topic as well.

Have a great Monday.

http://youtu.be/tAp9BKosZXs

"Eat More Chikin"???

This past week Chik Fila was in the news, the CEO made public his opinion against same sex marriage. This created a firestorm of publicity for the company, and highlighted the ongoing controversy.  He is entitled to his opinion, and to voice his opinion.  The question for me is this just his position or the official position of his company.  Again, something that is within their right to do.  This company has been known as a christian owned company, with policies in line with conservative christian ideals.  The thing is if it is his opinion, he should keep it to himself as the CEO of the company, because the publicity has impact on company as a whole.  With protests, and counter protests, it can be both good and bad for the company and its franchisees. 

For those of us in the gay community, we have to decide if we want to overlook this opinion and continue to do business with Chik Fila or not.  Many are calling for a boycott and those on the other side calling for support of this business.

For me, I must admit at first, I was turned off and not wanting to eat there any longer.  However,  I like their sandwiches, their service, I always have. I may limit my future business with Chik Fil A but I doubt I will totally stop eating there. After all, I am sure there are gay community members who work and perhaps own a franchise with this company. I don't want to penalize them for the out spoken opinion of their CEO.  It might be different if they were to begin an active campaign of discrimination.

What do you think? 

Music For Wednesday

Its been a busy week.I have hours everyday.  Which is a very good thing.  Right now its feast time for hours. Come September when the new students start, these hours will go away most likely.  For now i am enjoying the ministry.  Since I missed Musical Monday here music for Wednesday. I want it That way by a favorite band Backstreet Boys.
http://youtu.be/4fndeDfaWCg

Musical Monday

Happy Monday!  Nothing much to report today, other that the heat has returned.  but its summer so its to be expected. I feel for all the people being impacted by the extreme weather around the globe. Keep them in your prayers, I am.

Today I have selected a song i like, actually I love the guitar in this song.  Its "Just A Dream" by Nelly.  Hope you enjoy!

http://youtu.be/N6O2ncUKvlg

Happy Friday the 13th

Today is Friday the 13th of July. In fact it is the third such date for 2012, we will not have another this year. In fact there won't be another 13th Friday until September 2013. Working in health care, I run accross nurses, and others who are very superstitious. For instance saying its QUIET will "Jinx" the shift. today some of them refuse to work and take time off.  I do not pay any attention to the hype around the number 13,  my mother was born on the 13th and always said it was a lucky day. I am not a superstitious person. Many people are however, and if you are one of them, here is something to think about. 

This week, we had a report from the Chief Physician of the Emergency department of the level I trauma center in out area.  He did a study on ER visits on Friday the 13th, and found there is no difference in ER visits, injuries, accidents, and such than any other Friday.  The only thing that was different, there were a few more penetration injuries, but that is due to a human element and nothing supernatural. 

Now for those of you who are Christian, remember once we are in Christ, nothing supernatural, or demonic if you will can truly harm us. We are hidden in Christ Galatians 2.  Psalm 91:1 We are protected under the shelter of God. 

There is one thing that I heard many years ago and did not pay attention to, but found it held true.  Full moons and crazy actions of people.  It is true when there is a full moon there are more patients in the Er with psychotic episodes, people doing "crazy things"  This also has nothing to do with anything supernatural, or evil.  It is an atmosheric effect on people who are predisposed to psychotic episodes, and reactions to atmosheric pressures.  Much like the "down" feeling we often experience when there are multiple consecutive days of foul weather. 

I say to Happy Friday the 13th!

Monday Melody: Mystery Monday

Yesterday was HOT, so I stayed in the air conditioning and watched a "marathon" of Inspector  Morse on Netflix.  Its unusual for me to watch that much TV, but it was truly a day of rest.  I enjoy mystery shows and Morse is amoungst the best.  PBS recently aired a Morse that was set in 1965 when Morse first became a Detective Constable, it showed how he got his start in Oxford. There is a new series sort of a continuation of Morse called Lewis.  With the character that was Morse's sargent now the Inspector. 

In honor of Morse I share here the theme song and closing credits:

http://youtu.be/zM1HiGuVWsw ,  MorseLewis, Hathaway Tribute http://youtu.be/3B1Lehq6mgc

Another favorite A Touch of Frost:  http://youtu.be/HtvdtOZyl2I

David Suchet plays the best Hercule Poirot http://youtu.be/Hmx6dQJf_rk

Jeremy Brett Played the best Shelock Holmes ever (In my opinion)  http://youtu.be/_6ZAeuF7JxM

Happy Fourth of July!!!

In Honor of our Independence:

In Celebration of our Indepndence

From Andy Griffith to Anderson Cooper

Today one of my favorite actors died. Andy Griffith, he was 86.  Its always sad when someone you enjoyed on TV and the movies dies.  I still watch the Andy Griffith show on Netflix as well as Matlock. His homespun humor, and insight made his shows great entertainment for me at least. he and Don Knotts made a great team.  He lived not far from the Hampton Roads area, in Dare County NC. At least we have the body of his work left behind still to enjoy.

Anderson Cooper comes out. Seriously did anyone not know he is gay? Does it matter in the public eye, to the work he does that he is gay, that he felt he had to come out officially? According to what I read, he felt not going public about his sexuality gave the impression he was ashamed.  The fact is he is gay, he is entitled to his privacy and it really is no one's business.  Though I have to say I appreciate his willingness to talk about his sexuality openly. I feel it helps the equality movement and keeps the issue in the limelight.

 A quote from his letter in the Daily Beast.
 "The fact is, I'm gay, always have been, always will be, and I couldn't be any more happy, comfortable with myself and proud," the CNN journalist told The Daily Beast columnist and gay rights activist Andrew Sullivan."

Read more: http://www.eonline.com/news/anderson_cooper_comes_out_the_fact_im/327324#ixzz1zaIjSmqC

Still his private life should not be open season for the public.  We really don't need to know everything about a celebrity, politician, or royal.  As long as it has no direct bearing on their work. Or endangers anyone.   The effects of coming out to the wrong person can be devastating in one's life.  Some people just don't need to know.  There are those who you really want to tell, but you have to weigh the risks with the benefits. 

Happy Birthday To My Sister!!!

Yesterday...a day late here.  My sister celebrated her 60th Birthday! That is a milestone yet still young. I both texted and called to wish her a happy day. Turning 60 today is not like 20, 30, or even 40 years ago. Its viewed differently. Today 60 is the new 50 or some refer to it as the new 40. 

We had an uncle who lived to almost 100, and our mother always said, Uncle Joseph's best years were AFTER 60.  I think it was because he enjoyed life, work and family. As they say he came into his "own" at 60.

Of course I have to say that it has much to do with one's view of  him or her self.  How they act and react in and to life. I know people who act old and are old at 30. 

To me there is still much to see, experience and accomplish. 60 is young. 

Happy Birthday!  Thifty and Nifty 60

The Wildside then Gilbert and Gender Cakes Parties

Good Wednesday! It's going to get much hotter here over the next few days.  If you are in the Hot zone please take care of yourself.  Drink plenty of water, and stay in cool places as much as possible. Please be in prayer for all those suffering loss due to these awful fires, and thec firefighters trying to stop the flames.  I pray for good rain and no winds to fight thesae flames.

To end on a note of humor, I found these video's one on agoogle search by accident, the other on a blog I follow.

The first is a british post with animal humor, its great!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/wildside


It's called Gilbert Gets It, by Gilbert Gottfried.
http://youtu.be/eyiwaF9i9z0

TerrificTuesday Great and Wonderful!

Today is a much better day for a number of reasons. I slept well last night. Its a gorgeous day, will be in the 70's today, much better than 90 of yesterday!  I have my to do list already in progress. I'm blogging again today.  Its a terrific Tuesday! 

Plant update, if you have read this blog for any length, you know plants are a hobby for me. I have moved a couple of my plants to the patio for summer sunshine and fresh are.  its a change of 'scenery" for them and me. I like to sit on my patio at times. Well its time to do some plant care including re potting, and figure out what to do with my Orchid.  I must do some Internet research on my quest to have a re blooming orchid.  Stay tuned for updates on that. 

Its nice to have a day or two not to have anywhere I HAVE to be. Or wait for a call to go somewhere.

So I must keep moving to accomplish what I need to today. Have a Terrific Tuesday!

Monday Medley

Today is a tired day, as I just finished what unintentionally became four days of 12 or more hour shifts. Only one was meant as a twelve, the others became twelve (or longer)with calls and crisis added to the day.  Today I seek rest, relaxation, prayer, good music,  at least one good comedy. Eat something good, and generally recharge. I think I am wrung out.  I love the ministry I work, but it can be draining at times.

I will share one thing, something that evokes a range of emotions and thoughts in me. That is seeing, hearing, experiencing our local emergency medical helicopter.  It's a strange set of emotions to experience all at the same time.  Its exciting, awe inspiring, terror invoking, and action provoking.  A great deal of the time the result is successfully satisfying.  The Trauma team does great work. I am proud to work with these professionals when I have opportunity.


Today there are two songs I've heard that I like, and seem to have meaning for me today. One by Gym Class Heroes "Fighter" the other by One Republic "Good life" both feature Ryan Tedder (One Republic)  Again I do not endorse any advertisement that may appear before the video.

First  http://youtu.be/bxV-OOIamyk


Second  http://youtu.be/bxV-OOIamyk

Mana From Heaven

So its the time between paychecks.  You know that time when you have paid certain bills, but are waiting until the next paycheck to pay others, and the cash available is for the other bills.  Well this is one of those times...one has to be careful what one does with cash available its earmarked for something important.  I'm thinking there is enough food in the house to get me through, or at least I will make it last and just buy the essentials.  I'm going to walk every where I can and save the gas in the car for getting to and from work. I think, hope and pray I can squeak by.

Then something small but wonderful happens. Where I park my car is near some trees on a grassy area. The other morning coming home from a late call, its windy, and threatening rain. As I pull into the parking spot, I notice something flapping in the grass.  As I get out of my car and walk by it becomes distinguishable.  It's money!  I grab it before the wind can take it away.  I look at it and discover to my surprise, I have "found" a $20 bill!  I look around to see if there is anyone nearby that might be chasing it.  The area is deserted.  I stick that "mana" my pocket and thank God for His provision in my life.  Its a small thing, but significant to me. Now I have $20 to buy essentials if I need to and not touch gas, medication or rent money.  It meets a need not a want, that is why I call it "Mana from Heaven".   He is Jehovah Jireh, The Lord our provider.

The Monday Medley

Happy Monday!  Is that a contradiction?  Well this morning we have a two song musical Monday.  Shall we say two extremes? a song I like by Taio Cruz. Then I thought it is time for another classic by Wagnor Ride of the Valkyries. Used in the movie Apocalypse Now. Let it not be said there is no Culture on this blog!  Disclaimer, I am not responsible for nor do I endorse the content of any commercial which may appear before the music.

Hope you enjoy!

http://youtu.be/VUjdiDeJ0xg


http://youtu.be/CGBDWER-wUI

A Musical Monday Two For

I heard this song on the radio and it stuck in my mind, so I thought I would share it here.  Its by boy band One Direction.  Today is a two for Monday, the second song is one I heard and liked, is a little mellow for this artist.  Yes I'm actually posting a song by LiL Wayne! Hope you enjoy.  Happy Monday!

http://youtu.be/QJO3ROT-A4E




http://youtu.be/xe91Doq757A

Donna Summer Tribute: Musical Monday

Hope you enjoy this song as much as I do.  It has a great message.


http://youtu.be/tNMgPFp66lk

Sunday's are Special

At home growing up, Sunday was always a special day.  My mother would fix a spectacular meal, we would eat off the good china.  I recall as a small child going to the neighborhood church with my sister and brother. As I got older, I started attending a church on my own.  I was thinking about this today, as I walked to a nearby church for the service.  Its a good size church, they had Communion (which they do on the first and third Sunday)  The people were friendly, the pastor came all the way to the last pew where I was sitting to greet me. They showed the songs, Scripture and responsive readings on both sides of the front wall, which I thought was well done, and helpful.  I may visit this church again.

Today, I want to share what I think will become a regular Sunday post.  A short Scripture and thought, devotion, or whatever you want to call it. Its my opportunity to share from the Scripture, and perhaps about my path, belief, convictions. (I'm a preacher after all) I invite you to share your thoughts in response and perhaps have a conversation.  However, I won't respond to or post comments that I deem disrespectful, hateful, hurtful, or otherwise offensive.  Hey, its my blog.

Ascension;  today is Ascension Sunday on the church calendar. In Acts 1:4-11. I invite you to look it up and read it.  Jesus gathered his followers together and told them of the coming of the Holy Spirit.  He would leave them, but would send the "helper" The Holy Spirit to empower, guide, teach them the way they should walk on this earth.  Two things I wish to point out and I hope encourage you with.  First, In Matt 28:20 Jesus says he is with us always, " I am with you always, even until the end of the age"  Note the term I AM, remember what  the Father said to Moses?  I AM?  In Acts 1, Jesus says will send the Holy Spirit.  We as Believers today have the presence of God with us in the person of the Holy Spirit.  That means we each have within us a guide who if we listen to him, will lead us the way we ought to go.He will give strength, comfort, and peace in midst of life's storms.  That also means through the Holy Spirit God is present with us always.  Bidden or not God is there.  I find comfort in that.  I hope you do too.

May He bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you. May He give you His peace! 

IPad or Apple Stock?

A question was asked sometime ago.  If you had a choice of a gift of and Ipad or one share of Apple stock, which would you choose? I would choose the share of Apple.  Which would you choose?

Facebook Friday and its IPO are now done.  For many it was a disappointment since the stock price did not "pop" as expected.  In fact the price actually dropped until it was shored up by the underwriters.  I think it had a lot to do with investor uncertainty of how FB will be able to monetize and crate the kind of profit that is expected.Plus many were looking to make a quick profit by selling on the "pop", which did not occur.  I believe that over time it will prove to be a good buy.

As for me, I was able to purchase a few shares which I plan to hold, with a wait and see approach.  If overtime this stock proves to be like Google or Apple... great for me!

Facebook Friday!

Today is the day investors have waited for with anticipation. The pundits at times seem to be talking out of both sides of their mouths.  Oh buy FB on its open, No wait till the aftermarket, No you don't want to buy in the aftermarket, buy in 2 weeks. Others  say they would not touch it at all. Just depends on who you listen to.

For me as a tiny investor, IF I can buy just a few shares of this stock and hold it, I hope it will increase much like Apple, or Google.  For me the key is a longer term view, for instance if my parents had bought 10 shares of Johnson & Johnson in 1944 when it opened, and held them those shares would have made millions over time. 

What I hope to do, is place an order this morning for a few shares at a mid price point, and be able at complete the sale when the stock goes public.  Then hold that position and see what happens. Along with my plan, IF the stock price warrants it, buy more shares in the future. At the same time be flexible enough that IF the stock soars in the short term, be open to taking profit.  These are big IFs, as with any plan.  Depends on how things go in the future.  Remember, economies macro and micro change daily.  Personal finances are impacted by these changes everyday. 

Contingency plan, another IF, assuming I can't buy at my price today.  Then I will earmark an amount I want to invest in FB, and place FB on my watch list and wait.  Buy when I can, at a reasonable price.  That is IF that is even possible.
Oh and if any of my stocks increase exponentially, my plan calls for me to sell all or a portion, reinvest the profit in a fixed income type fund to grow that money at a smaller rate and protect that profit.  Then reinvest my original investment in something else. 

Happy Facebook Friday everyone!

Investing

 Some time ago, I blogged about my "financial plan."  With the Facebook IPO looming tomorrow, I thought I would post an update.  My plan has evolved some to include a more detailed giving, saving, investing and paying plan.  No plan however well developed is perfect, there are just too many variables, unknowns in the form of market fluctuations, job changes, price point increases ect. 
Here is a brief overview,  beginning with giving, the first thing I pay is a percentage to church and other ministry organizations. I'm looking at a suggestion that I read in a Christian magazine is to give half of your "tithe" to your parish, and half to the world's poor. Interesting concept.  Second, a percentage equal to what is given (as a goal) is squirreled away in savings. This I divide between cash reserve and a personal ROTH IRA that is in a brokerage account. Doing that consistently is key to saving for the future.

Now I also point out that I participate in my companies 403b plan. I place the maximum percentage pretax possible in order gain the employer match.  Due to changes in my employers retirement savings plan, I reallocated my investments from fairly conservative funds and fixed income, placing the majority of funds into a retirement year strategy fund offered by a large mutual fund. I am now placing 75 % into that fund, with 25% into fixed income. So far this year, it has increased my returns significantly.  (at least to me)  I will re-examine this and might add an additional fund later.  
if you can participate in an employer 401K plan I encourage you to do so, it pays off.

Second my Roth is allocated between four funds.  An equity mutual fund, a bond fund, a fixed income cash fund, and "Frank's fund."  I most want to talk about my own fund, which is what I have invested in individual stocks, and ETF's.  These are company stocks I select, that I either know well, do business with,  or have a long reputation. In the near future i will focus on stocks known for paying dividends  consistently.  I have several to choose from already in my watch list.   I buy once a month, unless there is a stock in my watch list with a price to good to resist. I try to buy at least 10 shares of a stock, but often can't.  So I buy at least 4 shares of a particular stock, and if the price drops and funds are available, I buy more. I am in the process of building.  I have a few stocks that are purely short term speculative.  Everything else is a long term hold, perhaps purchase more if the price warrants it.  I wanted to add a commodity fund, but decided against it, due to the volatility of such a fund. I do plan to purchase an ETF that is a commodity index fund.  This limits my exposure to loss because its a smaller portion invested than if I bought into a mutual fund.

In the investment world there are large corporate investors, brokers, there are institutional investors, small investors, and then there is me.  I'm a tiny investor. 

Next post, my plan for Facebook.

A Musical Monday

Good Monday, Here is another Monday mucial selection.  By the group  The Wanted. Hope you enjoy


http://youtu.be/wLMsyZY3oRk
A question, every time I attempt to embed a videa the link I paste, says its broken, so I have to paste the url here instead.  Any ideas?
Thanks

Happy Mother's Day

To all of you who are blessed to still have your mother with you; tell her you love her everyday.  Enjoy her while you can, honor her as often as possible appreciate her love, and all she has done, and does for you.  There will come a day when you won't be able to go see her, pick up the phone and call her, have  a meal with her on a special occasion.  That day is now for me and my family.  We can still honor her memory, but its not the same as having her with us. 


In memoriam of my Mother, I rise and call her blessed

A Historic Moment for Gay Marriage

Yesterday was historic, a sitting President let the world know he does not have a problem with same sex marriage!  My how things have changed over the years. I did not expect this to happen for many years.  This came on the heals of North Carolina making it laws in favor of traditional marriage much stronger. They are among 30 states that have such laws.  however there are a few states which have approved gay marriage laws, I hope they won't be overturned.  Times are changing, to marriage whether heterosexual or homosexual can only strengthen family values.  Because marriage civil or religious is about committing to one person for a life of love, challenge, and sticking together through thick and thin. 

What is so wrong with a same sex couple wanting to make that kind of commitment to each other in a way that is official, legal, public, and that others can?

Be prepared for the far right wing, unmovable tea party people to be loud, mean, and discriminatory in the upcoming election season.  I hope the silent majority gets out and votes for reason, compromise, and civility. 

Lets Talk About Sex...Survey

Several months ago I took part in an online survey by OUT magazine and Gay.net.  It was a survey about sex, first I wanted to see what kind of questions they asked.  Then I decided to respond with my views, I don't put too much stock in survey results because they often are skewed.  Well they have released the results of that survey and I thought I would highlight some points I find interesting here.
I did not see any data about the average age of the respondants.

There were 13300 respondants

Who took it:  88% gay,
10% bisexual,
1% were questioning,
Of respondants 5 were straight, 4 were lesbian.

Relationship status, 59% are not currently in a relationship
55% are single (I wonder a breakdown by age group?)
25% have a parnter/husband (again age group)
12 % have a boy/ girl friend
7% are dating

Coming Out
31% between 18-22
13% 23-26
13% 30+
17% 13-17
17% still have not

Sexual role
52% are Versatile
28% Bottom
20% Top

Now the survey also covered questions about intimacy which I don't care to report. I don't recall questions concerning communication in relationships, or about safe sex.   A question I wish they had asked, is about fidelity in relationships.  I would like to see something about this, even though not sure I believe a lot of survey results.  Anyway I thought this was interesting.

Its May Day!

The first of May seems to have significance around the world.  I remember during the days of the Soviet Union, they had a big military display and parade. I think the remaining Communist countries still do.  The first of May is also known as Law day, a celebration of the laws that govern us, and the law profession.  Its also the International Day of the Worker.  I also understand gay organizations use this day to promote equality.  So the first of May is a busy day!

I saw on the news that today there is expected to be many protests by what has become known as the 99% movement in recognition of the worker. I have two comments...

First regarding the 99% movement.  I am sympathetic toward this movement and hope it can help move the politics(through the ballot box) of our country away from partisan idealogical bickering to real action for the good of the nation. I am not naive,its just a hope.  However, I am not in favor of any protest which is violent, detroys the property of others, tramples on the rights of others to make their living.  I think it is counter productive to this movement. Also, I have to note there has not been a clear, announced goal of those leading this movement. (if there is indeed any real leadership) I've seen signs protesting a myriad of issues, none related to the other it seems.  Without true leadership it will not be effective.  This movement should promote changes in laws to protect workers rights. Not transfer of wealth or restrict capitalist engagement.  It should promote laws that keep the big and powerful in check so to keep greed on Wall Street,Madison Ave, and Main Street from creating situations that led to the Great Recession.  Just my opinion, hey its my blog.

Second about Law Day, as a gay man I have a vested interest in any legislation, or movement that affirms our personhood, right to marry or be in a civil union, whichever term floats your boat.  As a christian, I prefer the term marriage.  Also I am hopeful for laws that protect those of us in the LGBT communitie's right to not be fired because we are gay, protect our right to live out our lives in a way that is fulfilling. Without fear of or actual retribution because we are "different" from the "norm".  That is what I hope for on this May Day 2012.