Arby’s is multimillion dollar company with thousands of stores in dozens of countries that should be able to launch an ad campaign without sucking; Ad Fail! The Good Mood Food guy makes me angry for a couple of reasons.
First of all, the commercials are very, very stupid and not even a little bit funny. They make me want a Beef n Cheddar about as much as I want a root canal.
Second, the guy can’t and should not be allowed to sing. The dude is tone-deaf and the song is awful. Round three of my bout with Good Mood Food Man includes the fact that the words in the jingles don’t even rhyme. Some of the words are made up or unintelligible so I really have no idea what some of the commercials are even trying to tell me.
The final round of bashing the Arby’s guy is dedicated solely to the fact that I used to work for the company back when they had good commercials that were funny and made me want sandwiches. I miss the talking oven mitt; Tom Arnold was hilarious. The character was funny and a little bit naughty! In conclusion, I don’t like the.... Dear God, the commercial is on right now. Right now! I am so not kidding. I hate the Good Mood Food guy and I am changing the channel.
Rambling thoughts and musings of a cat-loving ghost hunter
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Morgan Freeman for President
In the next US Presidential election, I will be writing in the name Morgan Freeman as he would make a great President for myriad of reasons. To begin, Morgan Freeman has an honest face; his freckles are even noble-looking (not like Conan’s freckles that seem to emote a smarmy cockiness I’m not at all comfortable with). He has a smile that says, “listen to me; I know what I’m talking about here.” In addition to that winning smile, Morgan Freeman has a soothing voice.
In his future Presidential address, he could tell me the Earth was going to hit by a huge meteorite, that a deadly and incurable disease was recently released into the atmosphere, that he was God, or that he was Irish and I would nod, smile and say “yes, Mr. President”. Wait. Those were all movies. That’s okay though, I would still believe and do anything he said in that sweet, sweet voice of his.
Most importantly, Morgan Freeman is a solid pillar of awesomeness. He’s already proven that he can play any part; I don’t see why he couldn’t wear the President hat for just shy of a decade. He is smart and educated and, in my opinion, would make an amazing President of these United States.
I’m off to make “Freeman 2012” posters.
In his future Presidential address, he could tell me the Earth was going to hit by a huge meteorite, that a deadly and incurable disease was recently released into the atmosphere, that he was God, or that he was Irish and I would nod, smile and say “yes, Mr. President”. Wait. Those were all movies. That’s okay though, I would still believe and do anything he said in that sweet, sweet voice of his.
Most importantly, Morgan Freeman is a solid pillar of awesomeness. He’s already proven that he can play any part; I don’t see why he couldn’t wear the President hat for just shy of a decade. He is smart and educated and, in my opinion, would make an amazing President of these United States.
I’m off to make “Freeman 2012” posters.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
A Woman With Many Hats
I have a memory from about five or six years old. I was staying with my Grandma
(Mom's mom) and playing with one of her hats. She had dozens of hats and if those hats were still in the same place as they were then, I could probably line them up in chronological order and tell their amazing story.
I saw hats sporting high domes that appeared almost helmet-like in shape, made of soft felt encircled by satin ribbons. Some hats had fake silk flowers attached to those satin ribbons. I wondered, "why would a lady's helmet be made of cloth and not metal or plastic? And why the flower?"
Looking back to those innocent years, I remember some hats that were less dome-like but still had the basic sleek shape on top. These hats were brim-less and sprouted adornments even less practical than their felt, silk, flower-peppered neighbors. Many hats of this type had a black fish-net that, upon investigation, could be lowered or raised to cover part of the wearer's face. It made me think of a funeral....
Other hats were skimpier still; they were so small and non-hat-like that I asked Grandma why she kept these weird items with her hats. She told me that ladies used to pin (PIN!) these hats to their heads to keep them from falling off (I thought she meant they used the pins to pierce their skulls) and said, " Wow! Fashion can sure be rough on a girl! Bet that hurt!" She patted me on the leg and said something resembling pleasantries while most likely thinking, "my granddaughter is a dumb-ass. Good thing is: I love her, even if she's destined to use crayons for written communication for the rest of her life".
I miss my Granny! (I called her "Granny" once and she told me if I did it again, she would spank me.)
Oh wow, did she have some hats! I found hats that had fake fruit glued to them! I asked Granny (shush, don't tell), "What is going on with the fruit hats?". I told her it reminded me of the Chiquita Banana lady and she said people, at the time the hats were made, were so worried about [the] war that fruit was the happiest subject to talk about (and wear, obviously). I said that it was weird and she looked out the window for a little while. She looked sad.
Some of my favorite hats in her collection were small like the assumed hats that required a piercing to the skull in order to be fashionable. The main difference was that they were not just a fancy hanky. These hats were taller with the same "military-like presence" of the helmets but seemed a bit more suited for a lady. They reminded me of what a nurse would wear but adorned with satin and silk. I think she said my Grampa fought in a war but I didn't listen much. Back then.
I can still smell her sometimes, when I get a whiff of a perfume she used to wear or a soap she once used. And I see her face. Not the confused face her body was wearing the day she died but her "I'm about to get shit done" face. I see the face that used to put sugar in the spaghetti sauce and enlighten me on the benefits of prayer. I see the face that taught me how to sing. I see the face that taught me how to deal a deck of cards Vegas-style: the reverse shuffle that I still use today.
I miss Granny's (shush, don't tell) hats. If I had a place to keep them and a means to find them, I would line them up once again and take another look at the life lessons Granny gave me. . . . . . . .
(Mom's mom) and playing with one of her hats. She had dozens of hats and if those hats were still in the same place as they were then, I could probably line them up in chronological order and tell their amazing story.
I saw hats sporting high domes that appeared almost helmet-like in shape, made of soft felt encircled by satin ribbons. Some hats had fake silk flowers attached to those satin ribbons. I wondered, "why would a lady's helmet be made of cloth and not metal or plastic? And why the flower?"
Looking back to those innocent years, I remember some hats that were less dome-like but still had the basic sleek shape on top. These hats were brim-less and sprouted adornments even less practical than their felt, silk, flower-peppered neighbors. Many hats of this type had a black fish-net that, upon investigation, could be lowered or raised to cover part of the wearer's face. It made me think of a funeral....
Other hats were skimpier still; they were so small and non-hat-like that I asked Grandma why she kept these weird items with her hats. She told me that ladies used to pin (PIN!) these hats to their heads to keep them from falling off (I thought she meant they used the pins to pierce their skulls) and said, " Wow! Fashion can sure be rough on a girl! Bet that hurt!" She patted me on the leg and said something resembling pleasantries while most likely thinking, "my granddaughter is a dumb-ass. Good thing is: I love her, even if she's destined to use crayons for written communication for the rest of her life".
I miss my Granny! (I called her "Granny" once and she told me if I did it again, she would spank me.)
Oh wow, did she have some hats! I found hats that had fake fruit glued to them! I asked Granny (shush, don't tell), "What is going on with the fruit hats?". I told her it reminded me of the Chiquita Banana lady and she said people, at the time the hats were made, were so worried about [the] war that fruit was the happiest subject to talk about (and wear, obviously). I said that it was weird and she looked out the window for a little while. She looked sad.
Some of my favorite hats in her collection were small like the assumed hats that required a piercing to the skull in order to be fashionable. The main difference was that they were not just a fancy hanky. These hats were taller with the same "military-like presence" of the helmets but seemed a bit more suited for a lady. They reminded me of what a nurse would wear but adorned with satin and silk. I think she said my Grampa fought in a war but I didn't listen much. Back then.
I can still smell her sometimes, when I get a whiff of a perfume she used to wear or a soap she once used. And I see her face. Not the confused face her body was wearing the day she died but her "I'm about to get shit done" face. I see the face that used to put sugar in the spaghetti sauce and enlighten me on the benefits of prayer. I see the face that taught me how to sing. I see the face that taught me how to deal a deck of cards Vegas-style: the reverse shuffle that I still use today.
I miss Granny's (shush, don't tell) hats. If I had a place to keep them and a means to find them, I would line them up once again and take another look at the life lessons Granny gave me. . . . . . . .
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
My final essays: have a read, won't you?
Below are my final essays for my composition class. If you have a moment, please read and give any feedback for them. I'm shooting for a 100% in the class and just might make it with your help. Anyone who helps will receive a free cat. (just kidding, you can't have my cats)
Any thoughts on title for these bad-boys? My brain is a bit fried at the moment...
The Benefits of Group Study (exemplification essay)
Studying with a friend or group of friends is a very good idea for three important reasons. To begin, every student grasps material differently due to factors such as age, previous experience, and even language skills therefor a study group functions best with a diverse cross-section of students participating. More mature students tend to take classes more seriously and often have a firmer grasp on the importance of studying. Students with previous experience, either in the work force or prior scholastic endeavors, can bring real-life knowledge to the study table and apply it accordingly to a course of study. Students that possess superior verbal skills can interpret difficult concepts or ideas and simplify them, helping other students succeed. In addition, studying with a group of fellow students is much more enjoyable than simply studying alone. Students are more likely to make the effort to wake up three hours early if they know others will be joining them (one might even surprise the group with breakfast). Group study creates an aura of comradery which can ease some of the anxiety associated with preparing for tests and final exams. Groups can play knowledge enrichment games with pictures or flashcards which is, again, much more fun than playing alone. Finally, studying with a group creates friendly competition which can be quite beneficial to all involved. Comparing ourselves to those around us is a fundamental part of human nature and is a basic building block for success. Discovering the level of comprehension that fellow students possess allows others to aid them in their weaknesses while benefiting from their strengths. A competitive person will usually choose the highest scholastic achievers as his or her study buddies to achieve a higher level of success. In conclusion, study groups are a good idea due to: scholastic diversity benefiting all involved, fellowship among students creating an enjoyable atmosphere, and friendly competition driving individuals to perform at the highest possible level.
Writing (comparison/contrast)
Since beginning my Summer Quarter at Harrison College, my writing style and skills have changed drastically. Three months ago I considered myself a decent writer and I wrote almost daily, either in my blog or for school assignments. I quickly learned, in the first week of Com class, that my writing was unorganized and somewhat incoherent. The first speech I wrote for Presentation Skills earned me a dismal and disappointing B-. Once I grasped the basic formula for writing paragraphs and essays, my writing began to improve, slowly. I no longer considered “free-writing” my desired method of communicating the written word but rather tried to incorporate an outline into each of my writing projects. Then, around the half-way point in the term, I noticed I could make an effective outline in my head for smaller writing projects. My writing improved a bit more--along with my speech grades--and I started to feel more confident that I could succeed. The words were flowing much easier as I could organize my thoughts and ideas in my head before relaying them to the page. I also began to record myself reading my work so I could make last-minute changes if a particular passage or phrase sounded “off”. Now, as I write this very essay, I can look back to three months ago and see the improvements I’ve made and feel confident as I write. I suppose writing is like any other talenct or skill: once the basic concepts are completely understood then improvements can be made. I now feel comfortable incorporating my personality into my projects whereas I didn’t three months ago. If someone were to approach me on the street and ask, “have your writing skills improved since taking Com?”, I would have to reply, “look no further than my grades.”
Fast Food (argument)
There exists, in our country, an ever growing consensus that fast food is responsible for childhood obesity, adult obesity, and the over-all declining health of a nation; each of these facts can easily be deposed. First of all, a child’s health and weight is the sole responsibility of the child’s parents and not of any corporation. Critics of fast food argue that the “Happy Meal” is unhealthy for children and blame companies like McDonald’s when it’s the parents that choose to purchase them for their children. While I agree that fast food is quick and easy, that is no excuse for parents to feed their kids nothing but cheeseburgers, french-fries, and soda. Many fast food restaurants offer healthier choices like apple slices and 2% milk but the problem lies with parents not willing to tell their child “NO”. To expand on that concept, adults are responsible for making healthy choices for themselves as well as their children regarding their weight. A delicious, healthy salad costs about the same as the “evil” combo-meal and takes the same amount of time in the drive-through. Apple slices in place of fries is smart choice for Mom and Dad during the work day because they can be eaten in the car and don’t require short-term refrigeration or re-heating. Some adults go as far to claim they are addicted to greasy food yet refuse to exercise and burn those excess calories. The fault lies, once again, with those personal choices and is not the responsibility of an industry of convenience. Finally, heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and a myriad of other health problems are caused by poor choices, heredity, and environmental factors, not the institution of fast food. We know the cause-and-affect nature of poor dietary choices and the healthier alternatives therefor cannot blame a red and yellow-clad clown. The genes we inherit from our parents have an impact on our heath--just as much, if not more--than what we eat so unless your father happens to be an actor in rubber king costume, don’t blame him. That cute little girl with red hair and freckles didn’t put that cigarette in your mouth, force you to work in a mine, buy you a tanning package, or install the asbestos insulation in your home so withdraw the claws already. Let’s bag this issue and realize that class-action lawsuits and government intervention will not make your child a better athlete, will not bring you back to your high school weight, and will not improve your over-all health.
Any thoughts on title for these bad-boys? My brain is a bit fried at the moment...
The Benefits of Group Study (exemplification essay)
Studying with a friend or group of friends is a very good idea for three important reasons. To begin, every student grasps material differently due to factors such as age, previous experience, and even language skills therefor a study group functions best with a diverse cross-section of students participating. More mature students tend to take classes more seriously and often have a firmer grasp on the importance of studying. Students with previous experience, either in the work force or prior scholastic endeavors, can bring real-life knowledge to the study table and apply it accordingly to a course of study. Students that possess superior verbal skills can interpret difficult concepts or ideas and simplify them, helping other students succeed. In addition, studying with a group of fellow students is much more enjoyable than simply studying alone. Students are more likely to make the effort to wake up three hours early if they know others will be joining them (one might even surprise the group with breakfast). Group study creates an aura of comradery which can ease some of the anxiety associated with preparing for tests and final exams. Groups can play knowledge enrichment games with pictures or flashcards which is, again, much more fun than playing alone. Finally, studying with a group creates friendly competition which can be quite beneficial to all involved. Comparing ourselves to those around us is a fundamental part of human nature and is a basic building block for success. Discovering the level of comprehension that fellow students possess allows others to aid them in their weaknesses while benefiting from their strengths. A competitive person will usually choose the highest scholastic achievers as his or her study buddies to achieve a higher level of success. In conclusion, study groups are a good idea due to: scholastic diversity benefiting all involved, fellowship among students creating an enjoyable atmosphere, and friendly competition driving individuals to perform at the highest possible level.
Writing (comparison/contrast)
Since beginning my Summer Quarter at Harrison College, my writing style and skills have changed drastically. Three months ago I considered myself a decent writer and I wrote almost daily, either in my blog or for school assignments. I quickly learned, in the first week of Com class, that my writing was unorganized and somewhat incoherent. The first speech I wrote for Presentation Skills earned me a dismal and disappointing B-. Once I grasped the basic formula for writing paragraphs and essays, my writing began to improve, slowly. I no longer considered “free-writing” my desired method of communicating the written word but rather tried to incorporate an outline into each of my writing projects. Then, around the half-way point in the term, I noticed I could make an effective outline in my head for smaller writing projects. My writing improved a bit more--along with my speech grades--and I started to feel more confident that I could succeed. The words were flowing much easier as I could organize my thoughts and ideas in my head before relaying them to the page. I also began to record myself reading my work so I could make last-minute changes if a particular passage or phrase sounded “off”. Now, as I write this very essay, I can look back to three months ago and see the improvements I’ve made and feel confident as I write. I suppose writing is like any other talenct or skill: once the basic concepts are completely understood then improvements can be made. I now feel comfortable incorporating my personality into my projects whereas I didn’t three months ago. If someone were to approach me on the street and ask, “have your writing skills improved since taking Com?”, I would have to reply, “look no further than my grades.”
Fast Food (argument)
There exists, in our country, an ever growing consensus that fast food is responsible for childhood obesity, adult obesity, and the over-all declining health of a nation; each of these facts can easily be deposed. First of all, a child’s health and weight is the sole responsibility of the child’s parents and not of any corporation. Critics of fast food argue that the “Happy Meal” is unhealthy for children and blame companies like McDonald’s when it’s the parents that choose to purchase them for their children. While I agree that fast food is quick and easy, that is no excuse for parents to feed their kids nothing but cheeseburgers, french-fries, and soda. Many fast food restaurants offer healthier choices like apple slices and 2% milk but the problem lies with parents not willing to tell their child “NO”. To expand on that concept, adults are responsible for making healthy choices for themselves as well as their children regarding their weight. A delicious, healthy salad costs about the same as the “evil” combo-meal and takes the same amount of time in the drive-through. Apple slices in place of fries is smart choice for Mom and Dad during the work day because they can be eaten in the car and don’t require short-term refrigeration or re-heating. Some adults go as far to claim they are addicted to greasy food yet refuse to exercise and burn those excess calories. The fault lies, once again, with those personal choices and is not the responsibility of an industry of convenience. Finally, heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and a myriad of other health problems are caused by poor choices, heredity, and environmental factors, not the institution of fast food. We know the cause-and-affect nature of poor dietary choices and the healthier alternatives therefor cannot blame a red and yellow-clad clown. The genes we inherit from our parents have an impact on our heath--just as much, if not more--than what we eat so unless your father happens to be an actor in rubber king costume, don’t blame him. That cute little girl with red hair and freckles didn’t put that cigarette in your mouth, force you to work in a mine, buy you a tanning package, or install the asbestos insulation in your home so withdraw the claws already. Let’s bag this issue and realize that class-action lawsuits and government intervention will not make your child a better athlete, will not bring you back to your high school weight, and will not improve your over-all health.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Exotic Feline Rescue Center
Hubby and I made the two hour trek to the Exotic Feline Rescue Center just outside Brazil, Indiana last weekend and it was definitely worth the drive! Dozens of volunteers and thousands and thousands of dollars make it possible for these mistreated, neglected and abused cats to have second chance at life.....
Shiloh the serval was seized from a crappy circus, parts of her "Run" are constructed from old circus rail cars.
Dakota the lynx.
These are two of three sleepy male lion that live together in a bachelor group, they've been together all their lives. They were so malnourished and poorly bred that they couldn't put their hind legs down at the same time due to shortened ligaments. One was always sticking out. Thankfully, all the cats have had corrective surgery.
This beautiful chocolate and cream tiger was born to a white tiger breeder where three out of four cubs are slaughtered at birth because they lack of the perfect white coat. She is a lucky survivor.
Omy Nom Nom
Vinny Bob is a lover, not a fighter. He's learning to walk on a leash and hopes to be an ambassador in an animal outreach program.
Am Water Sprite, not Tiger! Love water. Eat. Sleep. Poo. Pee. All in water. Yay water!
You and yer cameras ah not relavunt to mah intrust.
Hi, my name is Tom and I'll be your tour guide today. Please follow me and keep arms and legs away from the fences or my friends will eat you.
Please visit their website or, even better, make the drive to Brazil, Indiana and visit these beautiful cats.
http://www.exoticfelinerescuecenter.org/home.html
Since its founding in 1991, the EFRC has served as a nationally recognized leader in big cat rescue, conservation and care. In the past 19 years the EFRC has grown from its humble beginnings with only three exotic felines to today caring for over 230 cats, representing nine different species.
Shiloh the serval was seized from a crappy circus, parts of her "Run" are constructed from old circus rail cars.
Dakota the lynx.
These are two of three sleepy male lion that live together in a bachelor group, they've been together all their lives. They were so malnourished and poorly bred that they couldn't put their hind legs down at the same time due to shortened ligaments. One was always sticking out. Thankfully, all the cats have had corrective surgery.
This beautiful chocolate and cream tiger was born to a white tiger breeder where three out of four cubs are slaughtered at birth because they lack of the perfect white coat. She is a lucky survivor.
Omy Nom Nom
Vinny Bob is a lover, not a fighter. He's learning to walk on a leash and hopes to be an ambassador in an animal outreach program.
Am Water Sprite, not Tiger! Love water. Eat. Sleep. Poo. Pee. All in water. Yay water!
You and yer cameras ah not relavunt to mah intrust.
Hi, my name is Tom and I'll be your tour guide today. Please follow me and keep arms and legs away from the fences or my friends will eat you.
Please visit their website or, even better, make the drive to Brazil, Indiana and visit these beautiful cats.
http://www.exoticfelinerescuecenter.org/home.html
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Bad dreams
I woke up Saturday morning and crawled to the bathtub to soothe my weary bones. I've been achy and sore for a minute and my bathroom retreat is better medicine that any of the prescribed pain-killers currently in my medicine cabinet. My husband came into the bathroom a short time later with a pained look on his face saying, "Leaner, Leaner, Leaner."
"What's wrong, Baby?"
"I had a horrible dream."
"I'm sorry. What was it about?"
"Well, its silly but I had a dream that you were Raptured and I was left all alone so I decided to go home to Massachusetts. To my parents. But when I got there my parents became angry with me because all I did was mourn the loss of you. It was a very sad dream".
He wiped tears from his eyes, sniffed a little and said...... "Honey, what's for breakfast."
Case in point: sometimes we are confronted with our greatest fears via movies, songs or perhaps dreams. Obtaining the perfect balance between what is and what might be is a delicate task. Be careful you don't forget to appreciate everyone that helps you become whatever you want to be.....
"What's wrong, Baby?"
"I had a horrible dream."
"I'm sorry. What was it about?"
"Well, its silly but I had a dream that you were Raptured and I was left all alone so I decided to go home to Massachusetts. To my parents. But when I got there my parents became angry with me because all I did was mourn the loss of you. It was a very sad dream".
He wiped tears from his eyes, sniffed a little and said...... "Honey, what's for breakfast."
Case in point: sometimes we are confronted with our greatest fears via movies, songs or perhaps dreams. Obtaining the perfect balance between what is and what might be is a delicate task. Be careful you don't forget to appreciate everyone that helps you become whatever you want to be.....
Friday, May 20, 2011
Higher learning is cutting into my blogging abilities
In case you haven't noticed, dear reader, I haven't been too custodial in regards to my blog as of late. The reason for this tragic and blatant disregard of enthusiastic blog-a-tude is the result of too much school work and for that I apologize.
It was brought to my attention, by more persons than one, that I seem to majoring in blogging this term as all my classes save one revolve around either writing or typing. That having been said, I was also asked why I haven't written anything new since week two of the current term, what with all the writing and presenting skills I'm gleaning from my classes. So I decided to share with you some of what I actually have been working on lately.
Below is the rough draft of a persuasive speech I am in the process of writing for my presentation skills class. If you have any thoughts or recommendations please feel free to message me or post them below. (And if my Communications facilitator is reading this I, once again, must admit I am double-dipping. This week's controversial topic writing assignment was way too awesome not to morph into a bad-ass persuasive speech. Am I wrong, Jason?)
Important disclaimer: the project below may contain information, observations or opinions not suitable for all readers. Anyone who knows me personally will notice I've crossed outside of my Prudy McPrude comfort zone in order to concoct a written presentation relevant to my interest in social behaviors and the fact that since I'm a medical student I will soon have to discuss these matters with patients without vocally spelling words like v-a-g-i-n-a. Deep breath.
Without further ado, I give you:
Teens Should Have Access to Reproductive Health Education and Contraception Without Parental Consent
Good afternoon. First, I would like to ask a question: by a show of hands, who in the room is currently raising a daughter? Excellent! For those of you with daughters, I would like us to do a roll-playing exercise. Let’s pretend that I’m your fifteen-year-old daughter (I know, it’s a stretch but please, bear with me). I’m your fifteen-year-old daughter and I just came home from school. I say to you, “Mom, Dad, we need to talk”. Are you dreading this conversation yet? As your young daughter I am dreading it more, trust me. “Mom, Dad, I’m pregnant”. Okay, by a show of hands; who’s freaked out right now? Let’s try one more. “Mom, Dad, I have herpes”. Now who’s freaked?
There is a growing school of thought and action advocating that teens should not receive any contraception or reproductive medical advice without written parental consent. Members of the health community are bracing for impact for the following reasons. A recent study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association, has found that around 20% of sexually active females under the age of eighteen would rather rely on the Rhythm Method (avoiding vaginal intercourse during approximate periods of peak fertility) or the Withdraw Method (or coitus interruptus, if you get my meaning) in lieu of having an uncomfortable conversation with one or both parents. (Jones, 2005) Unfortunately, this proposed legislation is riddled with dire consequences.
Jones, R. The Journal of the American Medical Association, Jan. 19, 2005; vol 293: pp 340-348.
There is an opposing belief that school girls under the age of eighteen should have access to contraceptive aids and reproductive education without their parent’s consent for several reasons. For instance, the denial of contraceptives to a sexually active teen (or teen that desires to engage in sexual congress in the near future) is not and never has been an effective deterrent for “under-age” sex. Young girls who know they are already grown, mature women will not abstain from sexual intercourse just because they do not have access to products that prevent pregnancy or the spread of STD’s. On the contrary, this denial can result in a sexually transmitted disease or surprise pregnancy. In addition, according the Reverend Clarinda Crawford, lack of proper sexual education can result in an adult woman who’s insecure and uncomfortable with her own persona and not the confident, vibrant woman who God intended her to become. (Reverend Clarinda Crawford of Congress Street Methodist Church)
In addition to the risk of STD’s and becoming the youngest grandparents in town, disclosing information to parents of young girls who request contraception and/or reproductive health education is a violation of doctor-patient confidentiality. The American Medical Association states that the Oath of Hippocrates is a code of ethics that all doctors are required to take before practicing medicine. Commonly called the Hippocratic Oath, it is designed to prevent physicians from divulging the medical treatment history of a patient to an outside party, this includes the parents of teens in almost every state in the US, for now. Patient privacy must be maintained regardless of age in order to continue compliance with the Hippocratic Oath. (AMA Code of Medical Ethics, http://www.ama-assn.com)
Finally, the common misconception that the bodies of girls in their mid-to-late teens aren’t developed enough for safe sexual intercourse or carrying a baby should be dispelled as a complete myth. Any physician not affiliated with the Religious Right can tell you that teens--more so than women in their twenties or especially thirties--often carry their babies to full term and give birth to healthy children with fewer complications than those ten to twenty years older. These babies are usually well-adjusted, calm infants and toddlers and are doted upon by their young parents and grandparents.
In short, denying essential contraceptive products to teens just because they do not have parental consent can and often does, result in pregnancies and possibly STD’s. Requiring full disclosure to parents of a teen requesting contraception is a blatant violation of doctor-patient confidentiality and reproductive education should be available to anyone, regardless of age, to insure your daughters won’t become tragic STD statistics and damage their bodies beyond repair due to the lack of a signed permission slip. "Sexual Health--Health of the Nation" Michael Adler, Sexually Transmitted Infections (2003, 79:85-87).
Does anyone have any questions? Or want to throw a rock at my head?
Other source cited: British Medical Association, BMA House, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9JP, United Kingdom.
Another adventure in writing came last week when asked by Jason, my Com instructor, to produce a definitive paragraph. One fellow student defined the "know-it-all" (loved it)and I choose the Uber Aggressive Mommie-blogger (later changed to the Ultra-Aggressive Mommie-blogger. It seems Jason prefers English rather than German as the language of choice for us fledgling writers).
I again welcome any constructive criticism either int he comments section below or via personal message or e-mail.
Disclaimer: Please do not take personal offense to the body of work below. Much like my persuasive speech this was conceived purely out of academic necessity and is not the inner window to my heart and soul but rather a casual grouping of observations via contact with--literally--hundreds of people in benign hopes of an awesome grade.
I give you, dear reader, The Definition of the Ultra-Aggressive Mommie-Blogger:
An ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is a mother (or possibly father) who constantly shoves unwanted information about her or his children down other people’s figurative throats while acting aloof either in person or in written form.
For example, some mothers feel the need to Tweet, or blog or update their facebook status every time their child has a bowl movement or says a word, any word at all. Or when I bump into a lady I haven’t seen since high school, I don’t really need a twenty minute diatribe on the first seven years of her child’s life or how motherhood is so much better than attending college or having a career. At least I can block them on facebook, at the grocery store I’m all but trapped.
Another habit of the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is instructing other parents in how to raise their kids utilizing words like “always” and “never”. For instance, one mother will say to another, “I always make sure my kids are in bed by seven p.m.” or “I never let my children have sweets.” It is almost impossible to use the words “always” and “never” without stretching the truth and some parents use them incessantly.
And finally, the behavior I abhor most in the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is the belief that anyone who chooses not to have children is somehow deficient morally, financially, or socially. They can’t seem to wrap their brains around the idea that not all married couples want to have babies. A small percentage of parents actually become defensive or even combative around couples who have chosen to be child free.
To summarize, the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger shares unwanted information with anyone in which they come in contact, can come across as brash and bossy toward other parents and occasionally becomes somewhat hostile when around couples who are child free.
Here are a few of the comments from my fellow classmates; the names have been changed to protect anonymity.
I like your paragraph although some of the words i couldn't understand or even know what they mean, but at the same time i thought that your paragraph was very true. -Bambie
I do like your paragraph I thought it was very true, the writing is done very well just that some of the words used couldn’t understand.-Chelsea
I love this! I think it is very well writting! And also so true, I hate when people over due their kids! Lets say “work on transitions!” lol-Linda-Lee
I hope you, dear reader, can understand why I've been neglecting my blogging duties and can appreciate that school is awesome and I would be a student for the rest of my life if it paid a dime.
Welcome, Faith Korbel to the list of followers (please don't judge me as a heathen).
To the lovely Reverend Clarinda Crawford (is that even your title?): thank you for the insight into human sexuality from a spiritual point-of-view.
To Gretchen, Aubrey, Ashley and Kirsten; please don't divulge the subject of my persuasive speech until I have a chance to speak with Ann to find out whether or not its suitable for our hyper-sensitive classmates.
And to all the mommies out there, young or not so young; please do not misconstrue my meager attempts at writing assignments as the end-all-be-all of what I think or feel personally. I'm only able to write what is pulsing through my brain at the time words are needed to obtain another glorious "A".
It was brought to my attention, by more persons than one, that I seem to majoring in blogging this term as all my classes save one revolve around either writing or typing. That having been said, I was also asked why I haven't written anything new since week two of the current term, what with all the writing and presenting skills I'm gleaning from my classes. So I decided to share with you some of what I actually have been working on lately.
Below is the rough draft of a persuasive speech I am in the process of writing for my presentation skills class. If you have any thoughts or recommendations please feel free to message me or post them below. (And if my Communications facilitator is reading this I, once again, must admit I am double-dipping. This week's controversial topic writing assignment was way too awesome not to morph into a bad-ass persuasive speech. Am I wrong, Jason?)
Important disclaimer: the project below may contain information, observations or opinions not suitable for all readers. Anyone who knows me personally will notice I've crossed outside of my Prudy McPrude comfort zone in order to concoct a written presentation relevant to my interest in social behaviors and the fact that since I'm a medical student I will soon have to discuss these matters with patients without vocally spelling words like v-a-g-i-n-a. Deep breath.
Without further ado, I give you:
Teens Should Have Access to Reproductive Health Education and Contraception Without Parental Consent
Good afternoon. First, I would like to ask a question: by a show of hands, who in the room is currently raising a daughter? Excellent! For those of you with daughters, I would like us to do a roll-playing exercise. Let’s pretend that I’m your fifteen-year-old daughter (I know, it’s a stretch but please, bear with me). I’m your fifteen-year-old daughter and I just came home from school. I say to you, “Mom, Dad, we need to talk”. Are you dreading this conversation yet? As your young daughter I am dreading it more, trust me. “Mom, Dad, I’m pregnant”. Okay, by a show of hands; who’s freaked out right now? Let’s try one more. “Mom, Dad, I have herpes”. Now who’s freaked?
There is a growing school of thought and action advocating that teens should not receive any contraception or reproductive medical advice without written parental consent. Members of the health community are bracing for impact for the following reasons. A recent study conducted by the Journal of the American Medical Association, has found that around 20% of sexually active females under the age of eighteen would rather rely on the Rhythm Method (avoiding vaginal intercourse during approximate periods of peak fertility) or the Withdraw Method (or coitus interruptus, if you get my meaning) in lieu of having an uncomfortable conversation with one or both parents. (Jones, 2005) Unfortunately, this proposed legislation is riddled with dire consequences.
Jones, R. The Journal of the American Medical Association, Jan. 19, 2005; vol 293: pp 340-348.
There is an opposing belief that school girls under the age of eighteen should have access to contraceptive aids and reproductive education without their parent’s consent for several reasons. For instance, the denial of contraceptives to a sexually active teen (or teen that desires to engage in sexual congress in the near future) is not and never has been an effective deterrent for “under-age” sex. Young girls who know they are already grown, mature women will not abstain from sexual intercourse just because they do not have access to products that prevent pregnancy or the spread of STD’s. On the contrary, this denial can result in a sexually transmitted disease or surprise pregnancy. In addition, according the Reverend Clarinda Crawford, lack of proper sexual education can result in an adult woman who’s insecure and uncomfortable with her own persona and not the confident, vibrant woman who God intended her to become. (Reverend Clarinda Crawford of Congress Street Methodist Church)
In addition to the risk of STD’s and becoming the youngest grandparents in town, disclosing information to parents of young girls who request contraception and/or reproductive health education is a violation of doctor-patient confidentiality. The American Medical Association states that the Oath of Hippocrates is a code of ethics that all doctors are required to take before practicing medicine. Commonly called the Hippocratic Oath, it is designed to prevent physicians from divulging the medical treatment history of a patient to an outside party, this includes the parents of teens in almost every state in the US, for now. Patient privacy must be maintained regardless of age in order to continue compliance with the Hippocratic Oath. (AMA Code of Medical Ethics, http://www.ama-assn.com)
Finally, the common misconception that the bodies of girls in their mid-to-late teens aren’t developed enough for safe sexual intercourse or carrying a baby should be dispelled as a complete myth. Any physician not affiliated with the Religious Right can tell you that teens--more so than women in their twenties or especially thirties--often carry their babies to full term and give birth to healthy children with fewer complications than those ten to twenty years older. These babies are usually well-adjusted, calm infants and toddlers and are doted upon by their young parents and grandparents.
In short, denying essential contraceptive products to teens just because they do not have parental consent can and often does, result in pregnancies and possibly STD’s. Requiring full disclosure to parents of a teen requesting contraception is a blatant violation of doctor-patient confidentiality and reproductive education should be available to anyone, regardless of age, to insure your daughters won’t become tragic STD statistics and damage their bodies beyond repair due to the lack of a signed permission slip. "Sexual Health--Health of the Nation" Michael Adler, Sexually Transmitted Infections (2003, 79:85-87).
Does anyone have any questions? Or want to throw a rock at my head?
Other source cited: British Medical Association, BMA House, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9JP, United Kingdom.
Another adventure in writing came last week when asked by Jason, my Com instructor, to produce a definitive paragraph. One fellow student defined the "know-it-all" (loved it)and I choose the Uber Aggressive Mommie-blogger (later changed to the Ultra-Aggressive Mommie-blogger. It seems Jason prefers English rather than German as the language of choice for us fledgling writers).
I again welcome any constructive criticism either int he comments section below or via personal message or e-mail.
Disclaimer: Please do not take personal offense to the body of work below. Much like my persuasive speech this was conceived purely out of academic necessity and is not the inner window to my heart and soul but rather a casual grouping of observations via contact with--literally--hundreds of people in benign hopes of an awesome grade.
I give you, dear reader, The Definition of the Ultra-Aggressive Mommie-Blogger:
An ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is a mother (or possibly father) who constantly shoves unwanted information about her or his children down other people’s figurative throats while acting aloof either in person or in written form.
For example, some mothers feel the need to Tweet, or blog or update their facebook status every time their child has a bowl movement or says a word, any word at all. Or when I bump into a lady I haven’t seen since high school, I don’t really need a twenty minute diatribe on the first seven years of her child’s life or how motherhood is so much better than attending college or having a career. At least I can block them on facebook, at the grocery store I’m all but trapped.
Another habit of the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is instructing other parents in how to raise their kids utilizing words like “always” and “never”. For instance, one mother will say to another, “I always make sure my kids are in bed by seven p.m.” or “I never let my children have sweets.” It is almost impossible to use the words “always” and “never” without stretching the truth and some parents use them incessantly.
And finally, the behavior I abhor most in the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger is the belief that anyone who chooses not to have children is somehow deficient morally, financially, or socially. They can’t seem to wrap their brains around the idea that not all married couples want to have babies. A small percentage of parents actually become defensive or even combative around couples who have chosen to be child free.
To summarize, the ultra-aggressive mommy-blogger shares unwanted information with anyone in which they come in contact, can come across as brash and bossy toward other parents and occasionally becomes somewhat hostile when around couples who are child free.
Here are a few of the comments from my fellow classmates; the names have been changed to protect anonymity.
I like your paragraph although some of the words i couldn't understand or even know what they mean, but at the same time i thought that your paragraph was very true. -Bambie
I do like your paragraph I thought it was very true, the writing is done very well just that some of the words used couldn’t understand.-Chelsea
I love this! I think it is very well writting! And also so true, I hate when people over due their kids! Lets say “work on transitions!” lol-Linda-Lee
I hope you, dear reader, can understand why I've been neglecting my blogging duties and can appreciate that school is awesome and I would be a student for the rest of my life if it paid a dime.
Welcome, Faith Korbel to the list of followers (please don't judge me as a heathen).
To the lovely Reverend Clarinda Crawford (is that even your title?): thank you for the insight into human sexuality from a spiritual point-of-view.
To Gretchen, Aubrey, Ashley and Kirsten; please don't divulge the subject of my persuasive speech until I have a chance to speak with Ann to find out whether or not its suitable for our hyper-sensitive classmates.
And to all the mommies out there, young or not so young; please do not misconstrue my meager attempts at writing assignments as the end-all-be-all of what I think or feel personally. I'm only able to write what is pulsing through my brain at the time words are needed to obtain another glorious "A".
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)