From my point of view, this blog is traditional. I apply that label because the left has done a good job demonizing the word "conservative." To some, conservative is synonymous with radical, nut job, extremist and even "well dressed." But the commentary here is definitely tilted right.

I welcome disagreement and other points of view as long as you are honest. So go at it.

Subject matter ranges from news to tidbits — sometimes about subjects that are off the beaten path. I do my best to translate the new language that Washington is embracing and hiding behind generic, non-committal phrases to mask the lightening speed of change we can't believe in. This is a daunting task so please don't hesitate to help if you enter comments. Commentary allows 3000 characters.

ANNIE: I was born and raised in Nebraska so my roots are definitely middle America, a part of this great country I have learned to appreciate more and more as time goes by. Yes, I shucked corn and candled eggs during summer vacation, took piano lessons and had a boxer named Tina.

When I left the nest, I migrated to California and lived many years in the Palos Verdes area on the coast near Los Angeles where my political awareness was broadened, to say the least. I am a mother and divorced. I am a contributing writer and consultant, and spent time in Japan and Germany working on projects with foreign companies and politicians. I'm young enough to be positive and hopeful and old enough to start being alarmed about end-of-life counseling and bankrupt Social Security.

I can even remember when there wasn't a huge illegal alien problem; when the differences between democrats and republicans were not so great; when we looked up to the President and Congress. Both parties used to respect and protect the Constitution and The Bill of Rights. You may not have wanted the opposition in control, but you didn't fear it. Times have changed, haven't they?

Yes, I'm a registered Republican (although I have voted for politicians who are Democrats, Independents and a Libertarian.) I was a Brownie Scout, a Girl Scount, a Young Democrat (for about 6 months) and a Young Republican. I belong to a Presbyterian Church, although I have attended an Episcopal Church and have friends of just about every faith I can think of. My opinions are my own and I make every effort to validate the quotes and opinions of others. No one else is blogging for me.

I just wish I had more time for social networking.