Even better, it’s currently American Idol time! We usually enjoy a big bowl of homemade popcorn before wrapping up our night, and it’s heaven at home. <3

A farm boy himself, Nicolas Kristof, has some very interesting things to say that shed light on the importance of protecting animals from cruelty, even if you still enjoy eating a hamburger. Gag, but that’s just me. I’m glad that I am mostly veg…it makes me feel so much more comfortable…in so many ways.

I caught a few seconds of this last night while buzzing around on a busy night at work, but it was nice to see both candidates in the same room with smiles on their faces. And who knew McCain could crack a joke that was actually funny?

Now…the real issue on my mind. I am truly sick of election coverage…it’s so sad that it causes such deep divides between people who don’t vote the same way, even people who are related. For instance, it’s especially sad that my own brother-in-law can only respond to things he finds negative, and somehow overlook all the positives that a person, a mind, or even a blog has to offer. It’s sad that people will avoid each other for months on end just because they can’t agree to disagree. It’s sad that each side wants to shout unity, but apparently there is nothing further from unity than an election. Everyone gets their own opinion, and everyone is allowed to display those outlooks, but they have to do it in a caring manner…why try to hurt another person, or take everything as a personal attack?

Granted, I am relatively new at this thing – in fact, this is only my second election being eligible to vote. Was it always this way? I shudder to think…it’s sad that we keep falling into this trap, this little hamster wheel of thinking someone is lesser if they do not agree with our point of view. The angriest of those viewpoint holders seem to be the ones who think they aren’t doing the name calling…or the damage. Once again, it’s sad. Why can’t we all just get along?

P.S. Currently watching the RNC so I can get an idea of “both sides”. Not getting into it, but I will say this from an entirely pro-environment point of view: Clean coal? Seriously? Hello, oxymoron!