Mom vs. the Dot: Making it COUNT!

It was a gorgeous, blue sky day in Western Pennsylvania and I had some shopping to do! My dear husband gave me a total green light to go shopping last weekend - he took the kids out to play with his Lego collection for the afternoon - they would be quite content. I desperately needed some new spring/summer clothing, so it was time to go for it ! I have been waiting for a good opportunity to go to the mall since Christmas, gift cards burning a hole in my pocket.  Today was the day!  Armed with my purse, gift cards, and sunglasses, I hopped in the family van ("Trusty Rusty," as I like to call it) and zipped over to the mall. I was on top of the world! Then I arrived at the mall.  Now, mind you, I shop for clothes at the mall about twice a year and sometimes not that frequently (if that could be considered in the "frequent" category).  So I was thrilled to be able to putter around, looking at whatever I wanted to without any children clamoring for snacks, ...

President Obama, in his speech given on Halloween Day in Rhode Island, said the following (during minutes 13-15): "Sometimes, someone, usually mom, leaves the workplace to stay home with the kids, which then leaves her earning a lower wage for the rest of her life as a result.   That’s not a choice we want Americans to make.” When exactly did all Americans fork over their ability to make choices for themselves to the government? Why does the President think that it is his duty to make decisions for us? Is it because we can't think for ourselves? Does he think I don't know that being a stay-at-home mom generates zero income? Believe me, I know what it means to live on one income. My husband and I made the choice together, as the best option for our family. I understand this speech was about how women can be a valuable asset to the workforce.  I get that.  I am an adult with a college degree in education, one of Washington's favorite stomping (c...