Why RIGHT NOW is the most important time for journaling

If you’re American, like me, you know that a lot of changes are happening in our nation right now. If you live anywhere else in the world, you’re probably aware of it too. Whether you are pro or con Trump (and everything that comes with him), this is a pivotal moment in our country’s history. I started a journal the day of his inauguration to keep track of these historic events. I hope to, one day, show this diary to future generations to give them a better picture of what life was like in Trump’s America. I can’t even wrap my head around it all now, and I am living through it. This is a crucial time in our nation’s history, record it in a more permanent form than social media. 

Why I’m fighting for ACA

What is ACA? It’s the Affordable Care Act or better known as Obamacare. I know the plan isn’t perfect, but it has helped me out a great deal. I had been taking your typical birth control pill for years, but with my crazy schedule I couldn’t guarantee taking the pill within the same time frame every day. For me, it was unreliable and I wasn’t leaving my future up to chance. I started researching IUDs after my best friend got one. This is a semi-permanent birth control that is inserted through your Urethra and can last up to 5 years without any maintenance. I was sold! This sounded like the perfect birth control for an independent, busy woman. The only problem was that an IUD could cost up to $1,500. As a teacher, I didn’t have that kind of money to spend. I thought I’d go to my OBGYN and ask her if there was a way I could get it at a more reasonable price. After I explained to her my woes, she told me not to worry. Thanks to ACA my IUD was completely free! I was ecstatic. $1,500 in savings & more reliable birth control: now that’s an idea that I could get behind! If ACA is repealed, the prices of birth control will sky rocket again. I am so lucky that my IUD lasts another 4 years (perfect timing), but I want other women to be able to protect their bodies at an affordable cost just like I was able to. Do your own research, and make your own choice on this important political decision. I know where I stand.

Women’s March

This blog is basically a summation of my personal life, so I feel comfortable talking about my political views here. As a woman, special education teacher, Union member, and Unitarian Universalist: I’m a proud Democrat! I have always been passionate about politics, but have gotten many eye rolls from others about my interest in the topic. It turns out that 5 million others around the world are just as passionate as I am though! I joined the Women’s March in Chicago to stand up for the rights of all woman, and there were 250,000 others beside me. So many people showed up that we actually filled the whole pre-planned parade route. I was disappointed when the organizers told us that we couldn’t march, but women are quick problem solvers. We thought, “well we all have to leave this rally somehow. Why not march out together?” And that is exactly what we did! The mood of the day was empowerment & positivity. It lit a fire under me to continue taking action. I am so proud to be standing on the right side of (her)story! Thank you to all the men and children who also came out to support us! And a special thanks to the CPD who monitored our protest in a calm, respectful, and encouraging way. Here are some pics from the amazing day!