From the heartland of America

Make a Change Tonight

Mid America Mom — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:51:31 EDT

Like many of you, as if on clockwork, I opened up my email today. It is part of my daily routine. Oh I also have kids to feed, toys and clothes on the floor, homework needs to be done. My life does not vary day to day.

Here it is in my inbox. Yes another email about healthcare reform. Is this American health care thing still going on and when will it be over? On personal matter I wonder if my Dad's recent cancer diagnosis is going to lead to a financial burden in the midst of his beloved retirement. Would he have a better experience here in Canada? I suspect at least the financial worry would be lessened and quality just as good. Why can't our fellow Americans see that change like this is worth fighting for? Living in Canada we have a little insight to what a positive change health care reform can be. Change can be good, if you do it right.

If you have not done a thing or many things NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Yes today and tomorrow is crucial and if you have a thought or want to lend your voice THIS IS THE TIME TO ACT. Life does get in the way (yes kitty you will be fed!) but everyday life will be there tomorrow and the day after. But this opportunity of American health care reform with teeth and substance will NOT.

I urge you to contact your Senators (LINK)- email is GREAT and while at it encourage family and friends to do so before it is too late. If that is not your style or if you want to do more- Here are 5 simple ways you can help pass health care reform.

Yes NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Even though we are not "home" yes we can make a change for America tonight.

Mid America Mom

Make a Change Tonight

Mid America Mom — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:33:54 EDT

Here it is in my inbox. Yes another email about healthcare reform. Come make calls TONIGHT.. call your Senators! Is this health care thing still going on and when will it be over? Oh this time is not good for me....

If you have not done a thing or many things NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Yes today and tomorrow is crucial and if you have a thought or want to lend your voice THIS IS THE TIME TO ACT. Life does get in the way but everyday life will be there tomorrow and the day after. But this opportunity of health care reform with teeth and substance will NOT.

I urge you- pickup fast food for the family, leave the shirt and toys on the floor, bring your cell and drive over to lend your voice to the millions calling for change at a local phone bank (check events). Cannot make the whole time or stay that long? Hey we will take whatever you can give! None near you? Still contact your Senators - email is GREAT and while at it encourage family and friends to do so before it is too late.

Yes NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Make a Change for America Tonight.

Mid America Mom

Make a Change Tonight - Wed. 30th

Mid America Mom — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 17:23:47 EDT

If you have not done a thing or many things NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Yes today and tomorrow is crucial and if you have a thought or want to lend your voice THIS IS THE TIME TO ACT. Life does get in the way but everyday life will be there tomorrow and the day after. But this opportunity of health care reform with teeth and substance will NOT.

I urge you- pickup fast food for the family, leave the shirt and toys on the floor, bring your cell and drive over to lend your voice to the millions calling for change. Cannot make the whole time or stay that long? Hey we will take whatever you can give!

yes NOW IS THE TIME to ACT. Make a Change for America Tonight. Join us- information is below.

Mid America Mom

*****************

As the Senate Finance Committee debates the 564 amendments to Senator
Max Baucus' weak health care bill, major decisions are being made
about affordability, cost, and the choice of a public health insurance
option - and could be done by this Thursday.

Wednesday is a National Call-In Day for health care reform.
Call Toll Free, 877-264-2664

Please be sure to call your Illinois Senators ASAP and ask them to fix
the Baucus bill to include a public health insurance plan either in
committee or on the House Floor.

Then please join us for this Tuesday or Wednesday's scheduled phone
bank to help us mobilize hundreds of Illinois voters to call the
Senate before Thursday. There will be no phone banks next week.

Please RSVP: Email the contact person below.

Phone-banking for Health Care - THIS WEEK ONLY!
We're gathering at the following dates/times to make calls for health
care reform and looking for data entry volunteers during phone banks

Wednesday, Sept 30th:
1) Elgin Painters Hall, 2400 Big Timber Road, Elgin; 6 - 9 pm
Contact: Kaye Gamble, mkgamble@ameritech.net
2) Schaumburg IFT Ofc, 1622 E. Algonquin Rd (just east of Meacham); 5
- 9 pm
Contact: Damian Christiansen, damianactive@357.com
3) Northbrook, Hel's Kitchen Catering, 3027 Commercial Ave; 5 - 8 pm
Contact: Kevin Roos, krooster1234@yahoo.com
4) Aurora Painters Hall, 1905 Sequoia Drive, Aurora
Contact: Earl, Aurora.dem@mindspring.com

Call Jessica, 312-427-2114 x 206 for more details.

Do you want to be free?

Mid America Mom — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:56:04 EDT

TO BE FREE?

Hello from my temporary home in the North, our 51st State ;)

One thing I will tell you is that NOT ONE Canadian I have met ...has said they would rather have our system. Interesting isn't it?

I want medical freedom.

I want to know that there is an affordable and logical plan that ANYONE can have. Including those countless children that have no voice or choice.

I want medical freedom

I want to take a job I love or like instead of choosing it just for coverage. I want to see people taking a second job not because of medical care but for just simply getting ahead or paying off a debt. I want to know that if I am laid off that my family has care.

I want medical freedom.

This house of cards healthcare system we have takes our time, energy, conversation, and yes our loved ones. Why must we cling to the familiar? Why can't we get past this fear? Where is the American ingenuity to make our healthcare system truly the BEST?

I want to be free. Don't you?

Taking up the fight has never been easy. But if we let this opportunity pass then it means well maybe we never really wanted it at all. And who says we, your plain jane and joe's cannot do it? WE elected OUR President. If it was not for us we would be talking about John or Hillary.

Join the chorus of millions calling for change. TODAY!!!! Get ON THE PHONE to the reps, send your EMAILS, CANVASS the neighborhood, HOST an EVENT for change.

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change

YES GET OUT THERE and never forget that YOU ARE THE CHANGE.

Mid America Mom
Moms for Obama

Walking the Blocks for Obama

Mid America Mom — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 16:44:47 EDT

As an American "Abroad" (am I really abroad when I'm on the same continent and 11 hours drive from my hometown?) committed to bringing change to the country I love and miss, I have been actively coming back to the states to help when I can. And this city, Buffalo, needs support, hope, and change.

About YOU, us

Mid America Mom — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 00:41:33 EDT

Is your family one of the millions that is having a hard time paying the bills, looking or fighting to keep a job, wonders why the school spends more time testing then teaching, have no or little health insurance?

If not - I bet 100% you know someone that is.

This is About YOU, us.

Happy St.Patricks Day!

Mid America Mom — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 11:47:15 EDT

Cead Mile Failte! Happy St. Patrick's Day everyone!

*FACT. did you know Obama is 3% Irish ? Story here

*The world wide humorous Irish video sensation “There’s no one as Irish as Barack O’bama” on Youtube

*President O’Bama is a icon around the world! “O’Bama” made an “appearance” at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Toronto Canada this year. Actually TWO did. One was complete with secret service and “the Beast”. Here are some of our pictures of the parade.

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1474.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1514.jpg

http://i163.photobucket.com/albums/t298/tshop144/Toronto/HPIM1485.jpg

(Yes I had my Irish O’Bama button and my husband Mike had his O’Bama green teeshirt on though it does not show up well in the pics.)

*Today everything IS Irish in the Washington DC. Article here

Blessings:
May there always be work for your hands to do.
May your purse always hold a coin or two.
May the sun always shine warm on your windowpane.
May a rainbow be certain to follow each rain.
May the hand of a friend always be near you.
And may God fill your heart
with gladness to cheer you.

Mid America Mom

Moms for O'Bama

(Don't forget to host or join thousands of others in a pledge for change canvass THIS WEEKEND)

Got Fear? Get Fired Up!

Mid America Mom — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 22:27:40 EST

The ACT. This is one of the biggest plans to come out of Washington that will probably touch everyone. The size alone is intimidating.

You got fear? So many losing jobs or fearful of it, others seeing their retirement slip away, some losing their home, and then the kids leaving college as their family no longer can help. I feel it. It is one of the things that are keeping me up at night. Thinking how did it get so bad? What could have I done? Why did I make certain choices? But looking back takes time. But I know that to move on I need a plan. Something that I can do that is positive. A plan to get me on the right track and hey bumps and turns will be there but that is OK. It is better than Nothing or sulking! Get Fired Up! Yes time to find that POWER within!

Do not let Congress, President, or the media own this. This moment is OUR moment. This is OUR economic survival- they will still have a job next week. Take 5 minutes or 5 hours to ACT.

Start simple. Truth is we do not like the folks in the Senate and Congress. But it is time for them to earn their keep! No matter what you think of the act- ACT. Let your reps know your feelings! After that maybe you can do a little more. Host a meeting this week for folks in our network, talk to friends and family and encourage them to make a call or email to their reps, send a note to the DNC/RNC, and let the PRES know your thoughts too. Do something that works for you. Do it today.

No matter who you are

where you are

YOU can be the change.

Doubt it? Look at who is in the White House.

Mid America Mom who is FIRED UP and READY to GO!

*Looking to join in an economic meeting in your area? Go to EVENTS on this site*

Tomorrow Be the Change

Mid America Mom — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 21:18:47 EST

Tomorrow our next President will be out in the roots.

Did you know? Fresh out of school Barack Obama could have chased the dollar but the roots is where he found a place to connect as an organizer. It was not glamorous, didn't really pay, but there was something in doing something good with others for others. It was in this job he found a community and sense of pride and ownership. Many of us wish to connect more or do more for our community but find the BUT. Well tomorrow take the time! President Elect Obama is. Yes during this economic mess and transition he is spending a little time in the community doing some good.

BUT NO! No excuse today as it has never been easier. Take 15 minutes or hours. From home or not. Join something organized (if you want to find an event near you try this site or usa service ) or not. The secret? What you choose to do is up to you.

Tomorrow Be the Change.

So for those of you looking for ideas I have posted an earlier thread but put this together tonight.

*Shovel the drive of a neighbor or maybe give them some seeds for their garden.

*Give some time to a local shelter (be it animal or person!) or $44.

*Visit some old folks and watch TV or play a game with them at the local home or senior center.

*Donate goods, food, or services to homeless or community food bank or outreach center (Yes you can buy a big mac or sandwich and give it to a homeless person).

*Are you going to the grocery, buying gas, or going out for fast food tomorrow? Pay some toward the purchase of the person behind you in the line.

*Write a letter to someone in the military or send them a care package.

And even if none of the above appeals to you there is something out there that does. Ask us on the headquarters blog, maybe a coworker -family- or neighbor (or read the story below). You will find something.

Thing is Do something, one thing, to help your town
and your one, and mine, and others
will add up to CHANGE.

Tomorrow Be the Change.

Mid America Mom

*Inspiration from Michele in 'burbs of Chicago below

New Year's Resolution

Mid America Mom — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 03:32:54 EST

Tonight I watched that new ball at Times Square drop on the TV. What a sight- the different panels and all the lights! With most changes it takes some getting used to and a leap of faith.

And then tradition takes over. It is that time once again for The New Year Resolution. Will it be- eat better and exercise? Take that trip you have dreamed of but never could get the plans together? Spend more time with the family or in church. Eat out less? Buy a family pet ;) ?

Now what?

Mid America Mom — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 02:54:54 EST

It is winter. The cold settles like a blanket over the bed- the air softly whistles through the trees- and you look outside your window and see no one or living thing.

Is anyone doing anything?

That TRUST thing again

Mid America Mom — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 14:50:36 EST

Once again the MSM and other folks are at it again. Can you believe he picked so and so? They are not x and x enough or they did x and x and still were picked? What is he thinking?

Folks where is the TRUST?

Lost in the economy noise - Part 4

Mid America Mom — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 15:40:07 EST

Earlier this month President-Elect Obama had his first press conference. And yes discussion did come up on that nagging problem- the dog situation - and Obama called himself a "Mutt" ;)

Sidebar: now how many of us have had to discuss having a dog with our family? Besides the fun and joy ---there is all that the kids fail to acknowledge- the potty training and cleaning up the yard--who is going to feed it. I feel for the Obama's!

But that comment brought back to mind the historic nature of his election and how race still does play a part in our country. A point that has been lost in the economy noise. I could write a whole blog on this, but true to this series, we share two blogs... our stories from the roots.

Not happy with the cabinet rumors?

Mid America Mom — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:46:26 EST

YEP all the cabinet talk. Dominates the news, the HQ thread, and some of our conversations at home and with friends.

I do not know about you but part of the appeal of Barack Obama is I can trust him. He admits he is not perfect and mistakes will be made. He is one of those natural leaders with a style that is not out of fear or intimidation but from ... what a change... getting along or working together to achieve success. And though he has stumbled he does have good judgment. Maybe his kids got it right when they think dad is "boring". As the man that is about to enter the white house is at his core still the same.

The same one that worked for a community instead of the dollar, helped to change the laws in IL so our kids have healthcare- tackle racial profiling - and brought ethics reform. Taught kids the constitution and practiced law for equal rights. The same one that in the MIDDLE of his Senate campaign spoke out Against the war and in the primary gave a speech on RACE despite the risks.

Is it agreed we made the right decision to put him in the white house? I hope so or it makes no sense you are here. We all can be armchair pundits and nervous nellies... it is our nature. We are masters of our destiny and we have a choice. What do you see when you reflect? I look back and it gives me peace. It is time for us to make that leap of faith once more. Let him use those skills, provide us with direction, and show us what he can do and what we can do together.

If I need a reminder all I need to do is look at this photo from the night where this began - the Iowa caucus - Link

Mid America Mom

Election Night

Mid America Mom — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:47:55 EST

Election Night my husband and I gathered our lifesize Obama cutout, dressed the family in our

Obama gear, and with signs and stickers headed to an election night party with Democrats in

Toronto Canada.

As a newly arrived American (my husband is attending school) I had mixed feelings last night.

My kitchen table issues are more tied to another country than my own and sentiment and foreign

relations is on the menu. It seems Canadians watch our elections more than their own...we even

had their politicians at our watch parties!

It is hard to express the feelings. We elected Senator Barack Obama our president! Joy, Pride,

Relief, HOPE. For a moment I thought NO- this is not real.

-This campaign has taken up much of my life for almost 2 years. I never would have imagined

being so passionate and involved in a campaign but how could I not with the state of affairs we

have ourselves in and such an exceptional candidate? The campaign was a family affair;

parades, canvassing, events, even the Iowa caucus.

One of my baby's first words was OBAMA and my oldest child is a veteran parade marcher. And

now I can point to the president and say there is a hero.

His message of hope and promise inspired me to ACT back then, for my family and myself and

others by starting the Moms for Obama, and still does! This is THE leader that we, America and

the WORLD, needs NOW. Election night was also a reminder of what we can do when we put our

energy and commitment to making things better. It takes a once in a lifetime leader to summon

the best from us, for all. We are ready to work on getting our country back on track with a new

engine!

Though I was with my new friends from Democrats Abroad, a few Moms, and our Canadian

supporters I missed being with all those friends I made in the Obama online world. Yes the Moms

for Obama group is still open for membership and blogs (as long as the campaign lets it),

features a daily music feature, and who knows what else will come along ;) They, we were real...

existed not just online but in person, over the phone, or personal emails. Helped to organize,

inspire, and share with for 21 months. They also were a constant for us as we moved 2 times. As

we became immediately involved in local activites (thank you NW Suburbs of Chicago for Obama

and Toronto for Obama). It truly is a community with a shared vision and determination. As a

member I look forward to taking on whatever mission President Obama sends our way.

************

And I completed a political journey on November 4. It is official. I am a Obama Republican, yep

now a moderate Democrat, and proud of it!

***********

*Back to the party- my two little girls with our Obama cutout were a big hit at the party. Those

images were picked up in the Canadian print and TV! Here they are:

CBC News story - http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2008/11/05/obama-election-halifax.html

PHOTO (mis quote on names- they are supposed to be Kayla 4 and Jenna 2)

then VIDEO http://www.thestar.com/fpLarge/video/530871

******************************************************

Day after headlines on papers here:

Mid America Mom

Show your pride!

Mid America Mom — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 10:40:22 EST

What a victory! What a high!

There is no shame in taking pride for electing the next President and leader of CHANGE- Barack Obama!

How? Plenty of ways.

Have a cellphone? Try out an Obama ringtone -http://www.barackobama.com/mobile/

Have your own webpage or computer? Download wallpaper, widgets, icons http://www.barackobama.com/downloads/

Obama gear! BONUS you could get something now for reelection ;) Shirts, buttons, jewelry, bottles, bags, posters at the Obama store! Some are ON SALE now - http://store.barackobama.com/

Looking for Moms for Obama gear (the group logo)? Try cafepress -- http://www.cafepress.com/momsforobama

Enjoy.

Mid America Mom

Lost in the economy noise - Part 3

Mid America Mom — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:51:58 EST

In this series we have shared issues that have fallen on the wayside but effect many of us deeply.

Today it is healthcare... I was reminded of it with the passing of Toot- Obama's grandmother- yesterday. Our prayers are with them at this time.

I was not able to find a blog that I felt fit the overall feelings. Being with the campaign as a volunteer since Day 1 I have had numerous conversations and observations on this issue. Complex? oh yes.

Back in February 2007 when Senator Obama announced I was living in Central Illinois. In a local Moms group I knew people with good insurance at work to those with none or on a state program. Being mothers of children under 5 we all spend time at the doctors and all had an issue with healthcare. We would spend half a playdate talking about what was covered or not, access, and cost. No one really was satisifed.

My mother in law, before she passed, tried to get a private plan (she did not work). She could NOT. Not due to cost but no one would cover someone with diabetes. That is someone we all agree SHOULD be seeing a doctor and taking medication. We lost her to cancer and wonder if she sought help earlier if it would have saved her life. She was a real face of the 47 million that go without.

This past weekend I did DRIVE for CHANGE to Pennsylvania. We were put up with a nice retired couple in a small town. We learned that she had cancer a few years back and has to take medications and he has medications as well. They shared that they pay $600 a month for a plan for the two of them. Their medications alone would cost over $1000 a month without. I wondered how they could pay for it but what choice did they have?

Last Tuesday HQ shared Obama's position on healthcare here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mollyclaflinblog/gGglB2

YES All of us know someone or do have a story on the failure of the current system. They say if it ain't broke don't fix it. Well America Healthcare is broken. We need CHANGE and welcome another national dialogue and finally a solution.

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama -Almost There

Mid America Mom — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 02:23:40 EST

Moms-

This has been a long journey from that cold day in Springfield almost 2 years ago when Barack Obama announced his candidacy. Are you feeling the weight of the moment like tomorrow is graduation day for your child or grandchild? Mix of pride, excitement, and worry. All the hopes and dreams and hard work is coming to a defining moment in the journey of life. After the ceremony and party the next chapter, full of promise and support, will begin.

This weekend from coast to coast Moms and our families did our part. Holding rallies (see pictures from the various ones here- http://www.obama-mamas.com/), making phone calls, knocking on doors, reminding our family and neighbors to vote, dropping food and supplies off at the local office, leading getting out the vote activities, and some even pray.

But it is not over yet. We still need to get through the day.

Hope + Action = CHANGE

Time to dig deep to find that energy we have reserved for special times. Time to use your voice - VOTE and don't stop there.

5 more ways to make a difference

-Bring someone with you to the poll so they can vote too. Family, friend, neighbor!

-Maybe there is a long line for voting. This is an opportunity to do your part and encourage folks to stay! Bring extra or drop off: food - drink / Suduko or crossword puzzles / a lawn chair / clothing if cold or an umbrella if wet! (reminder no campaigning though...)

If you already voted:

-Watch the kids while their parents vote

-Volunteer at the local office doing whatever they need

-Make phone calls. Even from home - http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/phonebankmap/

No matter who you are

where you are YOU can be the change.

yes Moms we can and will change the world --- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfjQujYrfEk

Mid America Mom

and the Moms for Obama

*See you after the election!

Moms for Obama 10/31 Update

Mid America Mom — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 11:15:33 EST

Hello Moms! Only 5 days remain.

This Saturday in 27 cities from California to Maine there will be a Moms for Obama rally! Thousands of families will be standing for the campaign of change!

Some highlights- One of our favorite Obama inspired songs "Man for Me"- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8SdJhVCRJM will be sung, in person, by the artist Maddy Wyatt at the New York City rally. Read more about the North Carolina event, the state we are fighting for in the South, in From the Roots below.

Want to join one? Check for one near you here - http://www.obama-mamas.com/ or go to events on the mybarackobama.com website and search.

*******
Phone Challenge News

Change from the bottom up is possible! These last few weeks we have seen a dedication doing what many of us ladies do best- TALK! Monday we challenged you to make it to 118,000 calls overall as a group by midnight Wednesday.

Drum ROLL- We beat our goal by 935! And today we already see that we are busy with more. We are amazed and thrilled by the results!

Please Call for Change and YES we will see 126,000 by Sunday night! Not made any? Perhaps you are not comfortable asking who someone is voting for or worried someone will get upset or try to debate? Here is a secret- you may not have to. Our campaign is starting to make calls reminding people to vote. Now who can get upset at you for reminding them of that? Take a look at what phone campaigns are available to you and try it - http://my.barackobama.com/n2n

*******
5 ways to make a difference in 5 days

1. Watch someone's kids while they go vote (who can stand in line for an hour with toddler and keep their sanity?)

2. Knock on doors

3. Make 15 calls - in the campaign office, from home, at a phonebank party.

4. GIVE
food, paper, gas cards, or time to the local (or not so) campaign office near you

5. Drive an elderly neighbor, family member, or coworker to the poll

*******
Did you Know?

yes I have Georgia on my mind - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Thls_tMuFkc . Folks down there in the grassroots believe in our victory. If you have not early voted yet please do so by the end of today. Here is a touching first time blog from a voter who did so- http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/genicejohnson/gGgkCj   ****If you live there or near please make the time to volunteer for just ONE shift before election day. Signup is here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/s/gagotvvol

Like the allure of a jewelry store window are you watching the polling numbers? A great site that lists all of them, has a blog (this one from NC moved me...scroll down to find a story about the old man- http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/2008/10/on-road-raleigh-north-carolina.html ), and has their own predictions is fivethirtyeight.com Visit them here- http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/

*********
From the Roots

*Who is making calls from home? One Mom, Jeannine- http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/gk2lj , is!

Phone banking has been an amazing experience! I can't wait to get back on the phones.

From home, I called women voters in Indiana, my father was born and raised in Gary, Indiana and I grew up in Illinois on the IL/IN boarder, so I feel such a connection to those woman. I talked with woman of all ages who were supporting Barack and some conversations had us in tears talking about what an Obama victory would mean for hope for this country, for Indiana, for woman and for the world!
Yesterday I spent 2 hours calling from the Obama office in Berkeley, CA to voters who had requested an absentee ballot in Ohio.   They make it so easy and fun to do and the sense of community sitting with other Obama Momma's is amazing! I went with another mom and we made over 100 calls each.

I'm a natural sales person and LOVE chatting so its easy for me to do. But everyone should just give it a try.  The inspiring, appreciative conversations absolutely outweighed the few angry McCain supporters I had to talk to.

*Great story out of North Carolina. Judy - http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/xqfVqqb writes this:

"I've never done anything like this before!" That's the unanimous
chorus of our small organizing group for the Nov. 1 Mamas for Obama
rally in Chapel Hill, N.C.

And, yet, here we are, making it happen, with more than 400 sign-ups
at latest count, and the speakers, bands, and logistics all falling
into place. (Visit http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gshbsd
if you plan to be in the Triangle on Saturday. We'll be on the
Southern Village Green from 3-5 p.m. Eastern time.)

We've made phone calls, written news releases, worked every connection
we can think of, and buttonholed strangers in grocery stores. Jennifer
has prepared some 250 custom "Mama for Obama" and "My Mama's for
Obama" t-shirts in her kitchen, raising more than $2,290 to cover
rally costs and donate to the campaign. Stephanie has written for the
"Huffington Post." Our cars are piled high with fliers. Our families
know they will see us after the election.

Thanks to email and cell phones, our face-to-face meetings have been
few. But once the evening's agenda has been concluded and the last
crumbs of pumpkin bread brushed away, we always find a moment to chat.

We have learned that we come to this process from all over. We go to
work, we stay home, we're retired. We've been Republicans,
Independents, and life-long Democrats. Our children range in age from
toddlers, to adults with children of their own.

In our daily lives, we might never have crossed paths, but we have all
been drawn to this project as Obama supporters and especially as
mothers. We share a common sense about the uncommon importance of this
election, not just for ourselves, but for our children and
grandchildren. And we're working our hearts out to connect with moms
and the people who love moms all through our region.

In doing so, we've found, to borrow a phrase, that, yes, we can. We've
been honored by the trust that this campaign has placed in people like
us to make great change happen, inexperienced though we are. We've met
inspiring people, cheered each other on, tapped forgotten reserves of
enthusiasm and commitment, and learned so, so much.

There's no stopping the mamas. We'll see you on Saturday and at the polls!

******
Lend a hand.
*OBAMA Family,
We in Clay County (North Kansas City), Missouri have an URGENT PLEA..........
On Election Day, Nov. 4, Clay County is expecting a large turnout at the
Northland Cathedral polling location (NKC). We are seeking volunteers.

Family, we are sending out a SOS
for the Final Push......we have phonebanked,
canvassed, neighbor2neighbor, neighbor calls, and contributed but we need
more volunteers to do our staging location right.

Any time you could give us would be greatly appreciated. If you are
interested please send me an email for more information:
l_meyers@sbcglobal.net
Thank You Very Much, Linda

*NJ Moms for Obama is looking for donations of Obama/Biden stuff for our Moms for Obama rally. We are particularly interested in buttons to give away and stickers for children to decorate their rally signs. We could also use lawn signs and a banner to put up at the rally. If you have extra Obama/Biden stuff that you won't be using please e-mail njobamamama@comcast.net or drop it off before our rally (between 1pm and 2pm). The rally will be from 2-4 in Monument Park Princeton on November 1.

*********
More

Today we put out our latest installment of lost in the economy noise. We share a true story from Joy. View it here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/gGgTgL

Do you want to share something??? Post it to the group blog. Or send it in for consideration in the next update (after Sunday) to mid.americamom@yahoo.com

Looking for an election night party or holding one? Check out events near me on mybarackobama.com . You may find a campaign sponsored party on the website, on your state page, - http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/statepages Those holding one... post yours on the site and click on the moms for obama box. No matter where---have fun!

*****
No matter who you are
or
where you are

You can be the Change

Mid America Mom
and the Moms for Obama

(Last minute donations are welcomed. http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/MomsforObama )

Obama visited us for Halloween!

Mid America Mom — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:25:54 EDT

Obama "visited" us tonight for Halloween.

He spent a few moments posing for a photograph with my two.

Before he helped to pass out candy, he changed into a costume made of dress up accessories they own - beads, a boa, and rabbit ears!

The future president made quite a stir in our apartment building. Folks exclaiming "OBAMA!" when they got off the elevator. We would hear kids walking up to the door and then not knock for a minute or two. After that happening a few times, we investigated. To our amazement kids were posing with him while parents took pictures. Comments? None were negative.

What brought a smile to my face? Two kids in witch costumes, no more than 10, said "I voting for Barack Obama!"

Now if everyone could say that our work would be done ;)

Where is he tonight? Making an "appearance" at our window for the night owls.

Mid America Mom

Lost in the economy noise- Part 2

Mid America Mom — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:08:45 EDT

Monday we shared a story from Marla a Mom with a son in the military. Today we share a blog from Joy on another issue lost in the economy noise- education.

******

During breakfast, our 10 year old twin girls were discussing their weekend plans when my husband jumped in and decided to lecture them (as usual) about how doing things with friends is a privilege, not a right.

They rebut by saying how they are getting good grades so they've earned the privilege to do x,y and z.

I jump in on their fathers team and tell them to step their games up in their respective weak areas.

The oldest twin whines "But I have a B average."

Dad says "It should be an A average, you can do better."

Not missing a beat she says, "Remember "No Child Left Behind?" "It's really hard to make straight A's now."

With a smug little "she shoots she scores" look of triumph, knowing full well we had no come back, she just picks up a biscuit and bites into it, savoring it's buttery goodness.

"That's right baby, blame Bush," I laughed, quite amused by her Obama-esque ability to handcuff us using Bush failed policy.

True story.

This really happened this morning at my kitchen table.

She's right though. She knows what it is.

If you have children in public school, you should know what's up too. They are constantly being tested, rushed through chapters to get to the test. It's amazing that they internalize anything.

If you are not a child who tests strong, in this environment, it's hard for you.

If you are one who takes more time to learn if it takes a while for concepts to settle in, it's hard for you.

If you are a child that has gaps in his/her education due to tranfering etc, you will fall behind in this environment. It's a pressure cooker for the teachers as well.

"No Child Left Behind" is one of the many failed policies I want to see corrected. This is one of several compelling reasons why we are voting for Barack Obama. I deeply respect that the education of our children is a top priority for an Obama administration. He understands that America's ability to compete in an increasingly global economy depends greatly on the education of her citizens.

It is heartening to know that we have the grand opportunity to elect someone who is not only highly educated and deeply intelligent but one who also values a good education for all of America's children.

**********

On Monday the campaign shared some of Obama's positions on education with a blog (and video) entitled "Giving Every Child a Good Start". You can view it here - http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mollyclaflinblog/gGglCV .

******

Thanks for that story Joy and I hope your daughter is getting an A these days! Check back later for another installment of lost in the economy noise.

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama 10/27 Update

Mid America Mom — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 20:24:42 EDT

"...We need your service, right now, in this moment - our moment - in history. I'm not going to tell you what your role should be; that's for you to discover. But I am going to ask you to play your part; ask you to stand up; ask you to put your foot firmly into the current of history. I am asking you to change history's course. And if I have the fortune to be your President, decades from now - when the memory of this or that policy has faded, and when the words that we will speak in the next few years are long forgotten - I hope you remember this as a moment when your own story and the American story came together, and history bent once more in the direction of justice..." Senator Barack Obama "A Call to Serve" Iowa 12/07

Change can only happen when we make it so. During this last week we hope to give you inspiration, a place to share, and ideas to make your mark on history.

********
We issued a challenge last week- to make it to 115,000 calls as a group. We knew it would require a commitment and wondered if that was too much to ask.

And as of this Monday morning - Moms we made 6161 calls in one week bringing us to.... 115,369!!! When did anyone think that talking on the phone would payoff ;) ?? But why stop now? So lets commit to making it to 118,000 by the end of Wednesday night! I am committing to 25 tonight after the kids are in bed.

Need some tips? They have everything you need online.

*******
9 ways to make a difference in 9 days

1. Donate

2. Call

3. Knock on doors (even if with little ones!. see From the Roots below)

4. Travel to another state to help

5. Wear your OBAMA gear

6. Watch someone's kids while they vote

At a local office:
7. Volunteer
8. Give (PAPER and FOOD!)

9. And join a moms for obama rally near you on Saturday! List of locations: http://www.obama-mamas.com/rally.html AND http://www.obama-mamas.com/blog/?p=93

*****
Did you know?

Remember the 9 year old we told you about in Georgia that is going as a Ballot Box for Halloween? This kid does have an ear to the ground after all. GEORGIA, according to a recent poll, is a Toss Up! So if you live there (vote early!!!) or near please consider helping out. You can read an article about it here- http://www.ajc.com/services/content/news/stories/2008/10/25/gapres.html

Clear your schedule for a half hour on Wednesday evening at 8 ET (not sure about other time zones). Our campaign will be on TV...CBS and NBC and Fox! We have no clue what they are doing with the time but maybe they will model it after Hillary's townhall meeting on the Hallmark Channel?

*******
From the Roots

*Jenny in Ohio responded to our last email with this:

Along the Halloween theme. Two other moms and I hosted a pumpkin carving for Obama...entitled Carve a pumpkin, change our country. We invited friends and neighbors, had a fabulous time and raised, through small donations, over $1400.00! Even the ordinary can be extraordinary when we put our minds to it.

*Kids and Canvassing CAN go together. From member Anne -http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/xqfMHXK

Got a little one at home?

Please canvass together in the remaining days. It can seem weird to ponder going door-to-door with a little one, but it can be REALLY effective. The following sums up the great experience I had this evening in my home state - the battleground of Virginia.
The campaign is focusing on the 5-7 pm time slot in many areas - so I decided Sunday at 5pm was it.

I took my 1 year old son with me to a canvassing event - just the two of us. I said I wanted to go out with another volunteer (it's more fun and safer in pairs). The person I got paired up with had been canvassing four times already. After knocking on twenty doors - with a whopping 14 or so answered, the other volunteer said that people were far more friendly and open due to seeing a little one than any of his other volunteer experiences. A few even asked if we'd bring my son back to trick-or-treat!

It didn't hurt that I made sure he was visible. He was in my backpack carrier, just the right height to peer into those tall thin windows that often flank a front door and, well, be seen. We joked about how people think when their doorbell rings. One person = "selling something." Two people might = "selling religion." An older kid = "selling something for school." But a mom and child, or two parents and strollers? Well, it just disarms people, so they open the door wondering what to expect. And that's a great thing when your on the campaign trail.

Having my son with me was a real plus. And he enjoyed seeing people and their Halloween decorations on a beautiful, crisp fall evening. I just showed up at the closest campaign office and they sent me to a private home "staging location" a few minutes away and not all that far from home.

Juggle young kids & campaign?
YES WE CAN!

*Reach out to people about early voting the EASY way.

On the headquarters blog - http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/hqblog , last night two community members shared ideas on how to get the word out on EARLY Voting.

We love this one from fellow Mom Dkbella - http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/view/public/g4ycS
I went online and found all the early vote info for the county where my office is as well as for all the counties in the metro area (Atlanta). I listed the locations/dates and also put links to each counties' elections website. I sent this info in an email to our HR guy and suggested that he send it out office-wide--to help our employees (over 500) and the company--by not having EVERYONE out on the 4th, and by saving folks time from standing in line less hours by early voting than waiting until the 4th. He sent it out with an intro about "Due to the overwhelming interest in this year's election . . ." !!! I was so proud!!!

Obamakim - I Voted Early shared: When I was at the campaign office today I asked if it would be OK if I went off of regular canvassing and put an info sheet on our early voting here in Franklin County (Columbus, OH) on everyone's car in the huge apartment complex near me. They said that sounded like a great idea and they gave me a flier with all of the info for me to copy!

*********
More

Did you notice that we feature a song on the group profile page? (We just took down this one- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJW67YfLWgs). Some of that music came our way by a fellow Mom! You will hear more about her in a series of blogs we have for you this week called "Lost in the economy noise". The first installment is here - here

Are you counting the time until a new President takes office? We are! You can do it literally with this clock widget - http://amyloo.com/obamacount/obamawidget.htm

*****
No matter who you are

or

where you are

You can be the Change

Mid America Mom
and the Moms for Obama

Lost in the Economic Noise- Part 1

Mid America Mom — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 17:46:54 EDT

Recently we have been worrying about paying for the gas and groceries, staying in our homes, keeping or finding a job. Hoping and praying for relief.

Can you imagine adding more to it?

Unfortunately some of us carry an extra burden. Throughout this week we will look at those issues that have been lost in the economic noise.

Moms for Obama 10/23 UPDATE

Mid America Mom — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:34:53 EDT

Two weekends to go Moms and we are FIRED UP and READY TO GO in the grassroots!

Do you believe we need a healthcare solution? Wondering if money will be coming in to pay the bills and is it enough to cover the gas and groceries? Do you want our troops home from Iraq? How badly do you want change? Then commit yourself to doing something, ONE thing for this campaign. And together we will change the world.

Think it is not possible?

*Collectively our group has made over 10,000 phones calls from home in the last 2.5 weeks! Join the army of Moms phonebanking from home for OBAMA! All it takes is a phone and this link on the site -http://my.barackobama.com/page/votercontact/landing Please take one hour before Monday to make calls and help the group reach a goal of 115,000.

*12 people ranging from early 20's to retirees gathered together last Saturday in the back parking lot of a local coffee shop in Northern IL. They ate a few donuts, piled into cars, and headed to a town outside Madison, Wisconsin for a day of door to door canvassing. The local office was ready and packed for the 70 volunteers that showed. My partner and I took one list and made 33 contacts, 16 for Obama, 8 undecided, and 8 voting for another. I do not know about you but I love this result. We are sure to get some of those undecideds! And one woman was so excited to see us that she rushed to her door. She is one dedicated supporter- she has an Obama sign at work! These stories are ones that I cherish. If you live in or near a swing state they would love your help with making these one on one connections! Never done it? I am sure they can pair you with a veteran.

*******

Use your voice- VOTE EARLY! Then November fourth use that time to

CALL 25 people,

DRIVE 3 to the polls,

or WATCH the KIDS of another MOM while she does.

31 states offer NO excuse early voting. Many are open for it now or soon will be. States are AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, ME, MT, NE, NV, NM, NC, ND, OH, OK, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, WV, WI, and WY. Those in OR remember to put your ballot in the mail!

*******

Creative ways to reach people!

-- Talk to a telemarketer about Obama? YES! Bobi shares..

Over the past several weeks, I have actually looked forward to picking up my phone and find a random telemarketing salesperson. Why you ask? Because I listen to their pitch and then I turn the conversation into the current economy/issues and how hard things are for everyone. Majority of the time this takes the conversation into the elections and why Barack Obama should be our next President. We are all working so hard on being the one to initiate the persuasion phone calls that we sometimes overlook the obvious that we have a wonderful tool in telemarketing people calling us. Next time you receive that random phone call, take a few minutes to listen to them, persuade them, confirm their vote and better yet, get them to volunteer.

-- Remind people of early voting! Sylva encourages us to call, TEXT, email, IM your friends and family with "Did you vote today?"

-- Are you in Alaska this weekend? Here is part of a note we received from some Moms up there:

Dear Alaska Women for Obama, Your voices are needed one more time -- and for just one hour!

This Saturday from 11am - noon, Alaska Women for Obama *wants to have a huge photo op in support of the Obama-Biden ticket.. This is our last organized event to show women outside that women in Alaska support OBAMA!!! And we know the votes cast by women are going to make all the difference in this election. This message will be used in key battleground states.

We have red, white, and blue materials to *create a giant Alaska for Obama logo on the Park Stripand we have plans to have pictures and film taken from the top floor of a nearby building. We are lucky to have some really talented film and video people helping us with this-and people who have done this before. The end product is going to be amazing!

We've measured the area, laid out the design and we've done the math. Now all we need is you!! We think we'll need at least 100 people to make it work. We need to know by Friday night whether we will have enough people. Please RSVP to geran@chugach.net as soon as possible. Note - Please wear black pants or dark pants if you can. It will help us emphasize the red, white and blue...

For the Anchorage event, Meet at L and 9^th at 10:45 a.m (a church is across the street on one side and the Hawthorn Suites on the other). We'll have coffee and hot cocoa available. We'll order sunshine too! Dress warmly, and again, please RSVP to geran@chugach.net

******

Halloween and the campaign. They DO go together.

The other day I wandered into a local costume store with my two little ones. They were already sold out of McCain and Obama masks. I did not ask who was more popular but I like to think Obama is ;)

Speaking of costumes- yesterday I came across an article of a campaign costume idea from a 9 year old in Georgia in the Atlanta Journal Constitution- http://www.ajc.com/services/content/atlanta-holiday-guide/stories/2008/10/22/halloween_ballot_box.html . They will be releasing the "results" later that night.

Anne-Kristine put an event out there "pumpkin carvers 4 obama" - http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/gsxv7q encouraging people to carve pumpkins and wear shirts in support of our candidate. Search the campaign website for a template.

Have some Obama stickers? Stick'em on the candy you are passing out.

*******

JOIN us for the Moms for Obama National Rally Day on November 1. We are getting out there and STANDING for CHANGE!
A note from Louise on the event--
Hope everyone is doing well! Everyone is so busy all over the country. You all are SO amazing! From the big rallies to the small rallies and all rallies in between, we are busy planning and organizing and together, we are going to make a difference on Election Day!
Rally Day is going to be such an amazing event. There are over 17 rallies planned. We continue to receive requests from new moms interested in planning a rally in their town! As more people are turning to the mom vote, we are getting quite a bit of attention and other moms are taking notice and getting involved. Many of the rallies have received dozens of inquiries in recent days from moms who want to help plan or attend and have heard through the grapevine about the Moms for Obama National Rally Day.
You all have such great ideas – there are going to be clowns, popcorn machines, face painting, coloring areas, special songs, musical groups, amazing speakers and so much more! It just shows how much we can do when we get together and work towards a goal!
Do you want to be involved? Check out the information here- www.obama-mamas.com

******

Anyone holding an election night party? If so please post an event on the site and click on the Moms for Obama box to add it to our event list. A few members already have one planned. This will be one memorable night!

*******

Moms

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change

Mid America Mom

What do you want?

Mid America Mom — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:38:45 EDT

Last night I, along with many of you, watched the final debate between Obama and McCain. After 8 years of the my way or the highway cowboy in the whitehouse that has made us all sick- yes I am paying attention to character and style! What do you want?

*How about a "MAVERICK" in the White house?

When did going against your friends and going so far to make enemies among them become an asset? His bipartisianship is a political necessity. KARMA, I know, is real. Who here thinks you can get far by burning the bridge? Try it? It always comes back to you in soft support or sabotage later.

Obama uses bipartisanship to reach consensus- you know rolling up your sleeves and asking the other folks what they may like or can compromise on. ANd oh yeah keeping friends in the process AND making some on the other side.

*Body language does matter

Obama is a worthy opponent that you have differences on but "respect". Eyebrows up, eyes rolling, drawing your neck back, nostrils flair... wow. Plenty of people I watched with- saw that too. McCain you must be a HORRIBLE poker player. You cannot hide what you feel. Any woman could tell you were not even close to respectful.

Wonder what we would see in a conference with IRAN or N Korea- and we know his thoughts on them! Is this the face that we want to show to the world and use to negotiate with?

Obama was not reacting to your facial tirade with his own and making the atmosphere toxic in the process. He was polite and respectful to you.

What do you want come Nov 5? Obama

or that?

Whatever your decision is, use your voice- VOTE, and do something, one thing today to make it real.

Mid America Mom

Obamawide!

Mid America Mom — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:13:06 EDT

This past week was the deadline to register to vote in many states. And I am proud to be part of the effort that will lead us to the White House and give a voice to millions of Americans!

and even more so that I no longer live in the United States.

I supported you, McCain, in 2000

Mid America Mom — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 13:39:57 EDT

Friday, like millions of Americans, I watched the debate. Friday I was reminded why you lost my support Senator McCain.

"Senator Obama does not understand"

What I do not understand is you. The list keeps getting longer with every day.

Talking down to a fellow Senator is rude and in bad taste. Where did this come from? You treated Bush better in the primaries when he was lying. Your mother taught you better manners than this. And that tone. My 2 and 4 year old know that TONE is just as important as what you say.

Your Straight Talk Express should be repainted "the NO talk Express".

Wisdom knows no age.

The Maverick of today = hasty decisions and off the cuff comments that make you look confused.

The man who vowed that the Bush tactics were something he would never do- does them now.

And the person that felt the religious right had too much power over the party now panders to them with a VP pick that offers nothing to Middle America.

Experience does not equal good judgment. IRAQ- IRAQ- IRAQ? Keating 5 and rampant deregulation... what did you do to make sure it did not happen again? Answer:_____ I am paying for it still and now more. Your campaign staff was assembled by You- someone who advocates campaign reform. Is there a lobbyist meeting first everyday?

And finally "Country First"

Take a look in the mirror you are 72 years old. Glance at your medical records and recall your cancers. Look at the stats and see that the middle class is suffering. You even notice that our moral authority on world matters is gone? The cost of lives, our children, and money in IRAQ is shocking and unacceptable.

And for Vice President you pick an unknown. An unknown that has no foreign relations experience and unaware as to what the middle class feels and needs in this economy. And you keep them from interviews and from questions from the public. And when they do - it makes me want to turn off the TV and fear for my children's future and for the country.

What made you do it?

This pick was selfish and reckless and potentially dangerous! You can gamble with your life Senator McCain but you cannot do that with mine, my children/family, and my country's.

You Senator McCain do not understand

and that is why you lost my vote

and will never get it back.

Senator Barack Obama possesses the leadership and judgment America deserves.

A MOM for OBAMA - Mid America Mom

Tonight at Victoria College- Toronto

Mid America Mom — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 10:30:39 EDT

HI Folks... Are we still at Victoria if McCain does not show up? YES

A vote is a vote regardless of where you are and it is our RIGHT to vote in the US Federal Election and to make our voices heard.

Tonight as with others we are there to help register you. As a reminder please be prepared to share or bring your social security card (if you have one) or US passport, and the address in the state where you or your parents last lived.

Also we still plan on having some of our volunteers share their experiences and also a time for questions. This is also a great opportunity to learn what else YOU can do to help the campaign. You may be able to do something even tonight! And if the debate does not go on there may be an impromptu townhall meeting or other program we can provide.

See you there!

*****

We live in a global economy. Congresspeople and Senators that are working on the dire economic situation are also OUR representatives. Your absentee ballot may have their names on it! If you are so inclined do contact them and express your wishes and concerns. Contact information for the SENATE and the HOUSE .

*******

No matter who you are

where you are

YOU can be the change

Mid America Mom (Moms for Obama)

HELP! Planned or planned on going to a debate party?

Mid America Mom — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:02:42 EDT

Having or attending a debate party? What if McCain no shows? Make this night-the night that made a difference and turned the election around ...by attending and doing work instead.

What can you do? Oh let me count the ways!

Make phone calls for the campaign by printing off your Neighbor to Neighbor list located in the “my home” tab of mybarackobama.com. There even is a script! You can share the list with others by assigning calls. Then use your cell phones to call. In the east? Sign up for a list in another timezone.

Have everyone come in OBAMA gear to another location such as a movie, bar, restaurant or local festival. Show your support out there in the community.

Bring a pack of notecards and have people fill a few out with why they are voting for Obama/Biden. Then stamp and mail them to a group that will address them to a swing state (details here)

Take some chalk and chalk up public sidewalks in town with OBAMA 08 or other slogans for CHANGE.

Live out west? With this economy and job market and housing crisis there are many in need. Do a canned good canvass. Print off campaign flyers (see the ACTION Center or make one), get a kids stroller or wagon or a few bags, knock on the doors in the neighborhood collecting food for a local pantry and leave the flyer behind. Or you can do a normal canvass using neighbor to neighbor!

Get out the street and do a HONK for Obama event…make a few signs and get out to a nice intersection. Live in a busy city? If you are comfortable do a HUGS for Barack instead.

Live near an Obama office and not yet donated the max? Ask everyone to bring some paper products (be it computer, toilet, or towel), or bottled water, or snack food. Drop it off later.

Take the time to plan ONE event before the election with the group….

Make plans to register people at a local place.
Plan a phonebank party.
Schedule a book discussion night and commit to bringing one friend.
Plan to work a shift as a group at a local office.
Agree to carpool to a swing state for a day.
Plan another party for the VP debate.

And what else can you think of?

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama

Family Working for Change

Mid America Mom — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:08:59 EDT

Saturday I visited the KEYSTONE state... an electoral key to CHANGE. Loaded up the two kids and my husband in the car and drove. It was our first major trip since the BIG MOVE and here we were going back to the states! So what did we do? Canvass for this campaign.

For us this campaign is a family affair. My husband is also a supporter and though my girls are 2 and 4- they are campaign veterans. They have been to a caucus, kids for obama playdates, parade going... canvassing. When we got in the car this time they wished we were going to a parade but they were pleased we went canvassing. So 4 hours and a border crossing later we were in Erie- that place on the lake in upstate Western PA.

Great office. A former restaurant. It had plenty of decorated windows and light.

Outdoor music! They did an Obama mix on those speakers. Even some Obama inspired music-- A Reggae song from Coco Tea played. Inside I found plenty of space and well organized. And it was packed when we got there. We came to a Women for Obama rally! I estimate around 100- mainly women (many Moms!) were there.

Also a the local CBS TV station was taking footage. We listened to uplifting speeches and met some of the local leaders, and heard from those running for office. Included was a prep on how engage in conversation at someone's door.

Afterwards many stayed to work. Some went to the computers, others called people, and then yes some took packets to knock on doors, in pairs. I was interviewed by the tv crew -- here is the coverage (I am the one with bad hair at the end) LINK . I made my way to getting a walk list via a line! We were given a packet that seemed light at 36 doors. But it was just right for the kids.

Getting to the route is always a challenge but armed with a GPS and sent to an older part of town it was no issue. This area has seen better days. This working class neighborhood had some homes boarded up or vacant, few needed major repairs to the roof or siding, and the sidewalks were uneven and hard to walk on at times. It was hard pushing a stroller.

My two would help ring and knock. They also would place literature underneath front door mats.

This list was people who we did not yet know who they were voting for. And the response was great. Of who shared- 3 committed to Obama, 2 leaning, and 3 undecided. NONE leaned elsewhere. The best conversation was toward the end. We met a kid on their way out a door and their mother came out. She sat down on the porch while my kids picked her dandelions and my husband and I spoke to her. This stay at home soon to be grandma, Navy Veteran, was OBAMA all the way. Though we did not get her pinned down to a volunteer shift she did know where to go and knew someone that was. I left hopeful that she would.

What am I hearing? People have had ENOUGH. They want to trust in the promise of a better future and want something better than what we've got.

So was the 7 hour round trip to work for CHANGE worth it? My husband enjoyed the conversations and our girls had a nice time outside and loved working with the literature. We talked to 8 people that had not talked to our campaign before. Based on that one conversation with the Veteran I say YES.

And if you want to see just how much America needs CHANGE just knock on some doors! Change comes from the roots and it only happens when we rise up to the challenge.

Art on the wall of ERIE PA Obama office

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change.

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama

Labo(u)r Day

Mid America Mom — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 02:15:30 EDT

That end of summer event - the local Labor Day Parade.

Did you watch or march in one? My family and I are marching veterans (this is our third this summer) and were thinking of joining the one in my hometown. We have a large one every year as part of our annual festival. People pack every inch along it's path and have their own traditions. My best friend's childhood home is toward the end on a prime corner. Each year friends and family come for the annual BBQ and watch the parade in prime seats. Yes the Democrats were to be there in force and supporting the local races and Obama.

But this year we celebrated it in Toronto, Canada.

New to Canada I was surprised to learn that they celebrate this holiday and on the same day. Some consider Toronto the birth place of Labour Day. 1872 found workers in the streets of Toronto demonstrating and asking for the release of a group that striked in order to have a 9 hour work day. Today it is a large march with activists and unions that ends at the CNE (Canadian National Exhibition) where parade participants get in free (nice touch).

Before we made THE Big Move I found out that the local chapter of the Democrats Abroad organization was going to march in the parade! After discussing it with my husband we signed up the whole family. So in the midst of deciding what to store and pack for THE Big Move I eyed my Obama gear- Signs, shirts, buttons and settled on my beloved "O" sign. This round sign has lots of miles. I got this while doing GOTV the week leading up to the Iowa caucus. Someone in the office I worked at, Washington Iowa, had one from the previous Harkin Steak Fry.

Day of the parade was one of "those" days. We got up late (as you can see from timestamps I am an night owl). How can you lose two kids teeshirts in a small apartment? I was frantic. I ordered these earlier in the summer just for parades and they had not yet been worn! Relieved when I found them in a bin of clothes... for the fall... of all places. Scrambled to get a diaper bag assembled with snacks, games, extra water, and sunscreen. Where are we meeting and how do we get there? We knew we could not drive but then we do not know the public transit system (they have it all here- trains, subway, streetcars, ferries, and buses). Could not find an address to the CNE for our return trip despite spending at least 30 minutes with mapquest and google. Was I nuts to wing the return with a toddler who normally would nap at that time? AND we were running late.

Finally we got out the door and to the subway- our daughters first experience.

Stairs everywhere and we had a cart and a stroller. We had to cover the rules of behavior. I was worried about one not making it on with the rest of the family. As Thomas and Friends fans they did not quite understand this train in a tunnel that never gets out. When we get out and up on the street I cannot tell what was north etc. After asking a passerby, we finally get over to our group.

It numbers around 22 and most are middle to upper aged. Will is there holding the Obama 08 banner.

I finally meet Adrienne Jones, the chair of Democrats Abroad- Canada. This lucky lady had been in Denver for the convention and is handing out fliers for us to distribute on the route. I spy someone holding an official Obama/Biden sign! And a little later another Mom, Linette, joins us with her little one in a stroller and older in tow. Adrienne has a few signs to tape to it. The oldest is sporting a CHANGE sign that I have not seen before.

With little time to spare we take some pictures and start marching.

My little one has a sign in her lap while in the stroller. She does a fantastic job holding onto it for at least 4/5 of the parade. My older one- well she changes her mind on which one to hold. At one point Daddy has to carry her. I have my "O" sign.

The music from a float ahead is enjoyable but loud. Another group behind us does some chanting. We make an attempt at playing some music but no cheers. I doubt anyone would hear us.

The route is sparsely watched in parts, we are at the end.. But that makes us stand out even more. There is a sea of purple shirts and yellow shirts in the groups not far from us. I pass out some stickers I brought with me. Some of our group fans out to pass fliers, Linette's daughter as well. It was adorable.

Was it a success? I did not hear many complaints in the crowd. There were parade watchers that ran up to us asking for information. Others asked to take their picture with our many signs.

At the end, outside the gates of the CNE,

we come across many from the unions. And we meet a few ladies with the purple shirts we saw from afar- SEIU!

For those of us that have followed this campaign - it was kismet. Obama has been a supporter of SEIU from his earliest days in Chicago as an organizer, last summer he spent a day with a homehealth union worker and they endorsed him. If you ever wanted to hear Obama- the preacher- at his best check out this speech at one of their conferences last fall.. this one gives me chills. She picked this shirt up at their convention and wore it for this Labour Day.

It was a great day! Obama is well liked and we reached a number of people. People that hopefully went home and requested their absentee ballot or told their friends and family guess what Obama supporters are even here!

No matter who you are

where you are

you can be the change.

Mid America Mom

THE speech (Better Late than NEVER)

Mid America Mom — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 00:36:53 EDT

WOW.

I was not sure he would be able to WOW us once again. On this night in Denver for his convention speech. And Once again he did.

There I was, not even 3 days in a new country and know hardly a soul, wandering into a Democrats Abroad sponsored Convention Watch Party in Toronto. I practically run into a camera crew from City TV news (take a look at their coverage here). A large banner, Vote from Abroad, is on the wall and in a corner I see someone with an Obama shirt and a large book, writing.

Hockey Mom?

Mid America Mom — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 21:33:00 EDT

Being an newly arrived American in Canada- originally from the Central Midwest- I just do not get Hockey. But I better learn fast! Today I came across a great article, a hockey analogy to the VP Republican pick, that I thought you may appreciate.

Before this primary I did not pay much attention to delegates or the electoral college (except 2000 when I fell asleep watching the general returns and woke up not knowing). I am a Republican and it was all new to me that the Democratic primary awards delegates proportionately. And then the polls were not that reliable as we saw in New Hampshire and that happened over and over as the months went by. But a blogger over at Daily Kos, Poblano, caught my attention with his predictions in January. They were so good the main stream press picked up on it.

We now know he is a stat guru of sorts in the baseball world. Here is an article about him, Nate Silver, in Newsweek. He caught the bug in the primary and now runs a site that looks at electoral college predictions and state by state results - fivethirtyeight.com.

I love visiting there at least weekly. They also maintain a blog. And this is their recent post about Palin the "Hockey Mom"- Here .

If you like this site and want to "dream?" of other winning scenarios (I figured we can win WITHOUT PA, OH and FL if we get VA, NV, CO, NM, NH, and MI)- try this site- 270towin.com.

Enjoy!

Mid America Mom

*And if you have not done so- encourage your fellow American expat friends to register- by sending them this LINK.

We are THE Bottom Up campaign

Mid America Mom — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 15:31:37 EDT

No matter who you are

where you are

YOU can be the change.

This is the campaign of the people.

This past week the campaign has been highlighting delegates- road to Denver series on the headquarters blog. I am touched by the stories. Many are not political operatives but first time or reawakened voters. Tonight we can watch our nominee and future president in front of tens of thousands of grassroots supporters AND party activists. Senator Obama's message of change and HOPE is resonating throughout America and the world.

Involvement comes in different forms.

The campaign contacted some grassroots supporters to help with the convention. We had the honor of making signs for the Obama delegates to hold!

In a small democratic office we put our posterboard sign making skills to the test!

After a few hours we had about 40 done (I am most proud of my Maine lighthouse with glitter). And what made it even more special is that we made it a family affair. The office floor and tables were packed with those very young to the middle aged -men, women, and children.

Though no one else will know, but we will, that we put our mark on this historic convention.

And we are everywhere.

Tonight I am watching the acceptance speech somewhere you would not expect- outside the US. Though I really wished I was in Denver - I could not afford it and moving plans got in the way. In their wisdom the Democratic Party has done outreach to expatriots throughout the world and has an internet site and chapters of "Democrats Abroad".

This group has their own delegates and seats at the convention! In Toronto Canada they are holding a watch party tonight at a restaurant which is conveniently 3 blocks away from me :) And I am suffering from that woman's curse- what to wear. I still do not know what shirt I should wear and then I assume jeans are OK? I have the standard blue teeshirt with Obama 08. A baby doll style in light blue and red with same. Moms for Obama white sweatshirt and then a Moms for Obama white teeshirt. Then there is the newer blue vote for change teeshirt. It will all work out in the last ten minutes right?

This is not all that this group has done. Earlier this month they were at a popular festival, Caribana, trying to get out the VOTE. The first three days this week they held a registration drive for expatriots outside city hall. I asked if they needed help but they had their spots covered. I was impressed. And once again my family will hit the streets for Obama. The girls broke out in cheers, not prompted!, in the middle of Canadian Tire (it's like Wal Mart) this morning after we told them we are going to be in another parade. Made some people pause- puzzled looks and then some smiles. Monday we will be marching with this group in the Labour (it will take some time to get used to the spelling differences!) Day parade for Obama. I brought my "O" sign that I got from someone that was at the Harkin Steak fry in Iowa last summer, just for this. I cannot wait.

Celebrate and rejoice tonight as we watch Obama deliver his speech! And know this- Change can only happen if you and I make it so. So while the glow of tonight is still there... tomorrow I urge you to do something, one thing, to help elect Senator Barack Obama. And your one, and mine, and others will add up to victory!

Make a few calls via the Action Center- http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/actioncenter, make a donation - https://donate.barackobama.com/page/contribute/main?source=homedropdown, register a few people and knock on some doors!

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama

Forget the polls- Look Elsewhere

Mid America Mom — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 14:04:04 EDT

Forget the polls. Forget the pundits! Who is really winning this thing? Look elsewhere.

Days of opportunity

Mid America Mom — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 11:51:48 EDT

Today I woke up thinking it was Tuesday. And that brought panic. So many things to sort, pack, finish, and calls and emails to make before the Big move next week! Then I realized -it is Monday! and sighed relief. This is another day of opportunity to get work done.

Us women are the masters of multitasking- a chaotic household or the busy office. Find a motivated woman and I will show you dedication with results. My first order of business when I got of bed today? No not pack a box.. that can wait. I signed on to this site, moderated a group, made a few comments, and here is the blog.

Why?

My family WILL have a better future. A future with healthcare, jobs, no senseless war... one of HOPE and prosperity. And those folks in Washington have not been getting the job done. I demand CHANGE. I just don't believe in it....I know that it is time for this woman to step up and make it so!

How about you?

Are you sick and tired of the world disliking us? Nice to see flags waving instead of burning in Europe when he was there. Is the pain at the pump and checkout too much? I want someone with a plan and the RIGHT people around them to get us relief. Do you want to respect and admire the presidency again? Soon I will be able to proudly claim that I voted for the president! I want someone who fights for our rights and builds a bridge to success. One that will not take the constitution and walk all over it while torturing people in the process.

Folks we are long overdue for change. Time for our Politicians to respect and work for US- the United States of America.

How badly do you want change? There are 99 days of Opportunity- days until the election- to turn this country around! Do something -just one thing -TODAY to help elect Barack Obama and your one and mine and others will add up to Change the world.

Mid America Mom
Moms for Obama- Link

*Make 5 phone calls to a swing state via the ACTION Center, donate a cup of your drive through joe, drop by the local campaign office and give them some computer paper and snack food, get your sneakers on and knock on the doors of your neighbors urging them to take a closer look at Obama, make arrangements for doing some community service this coming weekend at the foodbank/community center/charity in town. One thing.

I feel IT

Mid America Mom — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 21:50:10 EDT

About a month and half ago at our local grassroots group meeting, an opportunity came up for one of us to be the Barack Obama "representative" for a Meet the Candidate event. When no one jumped I offered. It was taking place at a not so local democratic campaign office for a state senator a few weeks later.

Since I am new to politics I needed to know what was expected. What is this? How long? Audience? To myself I wondered what I was getting into since I am a Republican for Obama. Am I walking into a lions den? Will they see me as the enemy? After some phone tag I connected with the organizer and found out it would be a friendly crowd of local dems (I kept it to myself that I am Republican) and I would have 5/10 minutes.

Few days ahead I was wondering what to say. I posted a comment on the Headquarters blog looking for advice from others one night. I combed through the website looking at his speeches and positions. I thought about my campaign journey so far. The night before I was working a theme and writing a few things down. Should I mention healthcare or the economy? There may be Hillary supporters and there is that "universal" difference. Should I mention Iraq? I hear so little about it from others, the media, and not much in the blogs. I pulled from a speech of his last fall- A call to serve.

In the end I felt confident. I knew it was decent and it was not that long.

Day of I get dressed in my Obama uniform. A campaign shirt and jean item (this does contrast to my Iowa GOTV outfit which was- two pair of socks in winter boots, a pair of large sweat pants over a pair of jeans, a turtleneck or teeshirt under a sweatshirt, an old grey knit cap, mittens, and a older beige suede coat with white fur trim with hood. Note to the DNC we need to fix the primary schedule back to spring- that was nuts.). I look over my notes. After a 35 minute drive to the event again I look at my notes before going in. Open the door and look around and I know--- no one. Am I scared? Anxious? No. I think it is time to mingle! I get the customary name tag and add my web name to it. Many are local candidates for office and there are supporters. I listen in on a few conversations. Talking about canvassing operations and the volunteers they have. Another one shared that they feel confident that they will have a fighting chance this time around even in republican areas. Everyone was upbeat, polite, and conversational. I thought to myself this is positive and welcoming!

It is time to kick it off. Our host tells us that we need to do our one minute stump. And that since Obama is on top of the ticket- I get to go first. I stand up and share I thought I had more time, sorry folks, and begin. I look at the notes and think ok seize the moment. It is kind of a blur after that but I introduce myself and add I am republican for obama. I heard earlier here about some of you getting GOP support. As I know living in this area that all we see for many years is just Republicans on the ballot. People may not be republican but what choice do they have? Now they do. Will this be a permanent change for me? I do not know but it is a start. Change is in the air. Theme of change- need to address Iraq, healthcare.. and it will not come from the grand old party. At one point I see people starting to get that deer in headlights look. So I tell them that this is all new to me and what I have done and where I have been in like two sentences. And proceed to end with my mantra-

no matter who you are

or where you are

you can be the change.

Then it was over. No clapping but smiles and a thank from the host. But then no one got claps from this crowd. After the speeches I got two compliments -one who is running and from another working on a campaign. I thought hey- must have worked ;) I stuck around a bit more and met some of the volunteers that came in to help with canvassing for another candidate. One was an intern from a high school! I was surprised and yet not. So many people are excited and getting involved- young and old.

I left the event thinking Ted Kennedy was right- I do feel change in the air. Do you?

Mid America Mom

Moms for Obama Update

Mid America Mom — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 12:20:03 EDT

Greetings Moms!

It has been awhile. Life, like this campaign, is busy! This week we noticed that our membership has met a milestone we never imagined was possible - 1500 members worldwide. And over 1800 join us from the myspace group. Felt it was a great time to reflect, see who is joining us, and connect with you.

This is an exciting journey that is full of firsts for many of us. I grew up with the notion that it was not proper to talk about religion or politics with company and here I am! Is it your first time voting or giving money to a campaign or attending a political function? I bet one of those applies to you. It is everyday mothers and women like you and me that are helping to fuel this campaign. Our organizational skills, gift of gab, cooking ability (or the cookies from the bakery we pass off as our own!), decorating eye, and more are being utilized AND appreciated. Your time and talents are precious and we thank you for using them to help elect Barack Obama as the next President of the United States.

And drum roll please... meet our 1500th member - Shannon. She is a busy and passionate woman. I can tell she is embodying her own profile quote "We are the change we have been waiting for." This Hillary and Obama supporter is holding a platform meeting in Southern California next weekend . She has phonebanked for Barack with a teenager in tow (way to get them involved!). On July 4th she was inspired to write a blog.

And looking at our newer members I can see:

We are not just from Blue states
Jennevieve for Obama is from Idaho

We are inspired
From the profile of Pmarie..
Why I support Barack Obama: "Barack Obama represents all of us. He is not one race or another. He moves me when he speaks. I miss that ability in a leader, which hasn't happened to me in a very, very long time. He is an intellectual and inspirational leader and superb human being. While McCain refers to the 60's & 70's with negativity, i miss the energy of that time. It was a time of honest debate and movement which gave birth to so many things we now take for granted. It was a time when people cared enough to speak out about social injustice and violence and moved into action or protest if inspired to do so. The massive internal stagnation and paralysis that is born from self-absorption and materialism is ruining this country. CAN WE CHANGE IT? YES WE CAN. We need to get this country back on track...."

We are creative
Check out the picture Eomaia used for her profile This is how she made it- "I got the wreath at Michael's, and then handpainted the sign on cardboard from a pizza box" (great recycle use Eomaia!).

We are motivated (fired up and ready to go!?)
Besides her fundraiser with ten donors so far CarolforObama is hosting an event. She is helping to run a voter registration drive in Maryland next month! If you are in the area feel free to join her.

And we warmly welcome the following staff from the campaign: Becky Carroll, the National Director of Women for Obama and Anne Brewer, our women's vote coordinator. You may have noticed Anne's recent blog about Michele Obama! Michele has started a blog at the online community blogher.com . I look forward to hearing from Michele and Anne some more.

We also love hearing from you. Carly Ann of Minnesota wrote an interesting piece. If you write a original blog please share it with us by sending it to the Moms for Obama group! And an administrator note. Our listserv- aka email list - is used sparingly (less than once a week). We only consider emails with either an event posted to our group or fundraising tie to them. And those who dislike receiving them- please click on the button in the listserv section of our group page.

Speaking of events. If you ever host we encourage you to post it to our group for advertising purposes. We "rotate" the main page event listings so your event will have a headline there. Are you overseas? You can now create and post events on this site! Want to host but not sure what to do? I have compiled a list of event ideas seen or done in the grassroots. Just email me directly. The campaign comes out with ideas via the campaign home pages. Last month they suggested a Unity for Change party and this month, a Platform Meeting. Here are a few events our members are hosting and they welcome you to join them:

Louise, the administrator of our sister page on myspace , has a great fundraising idea! Contribute $8.04 in honor of Barack Obama's birthday

Kimberly is holding a platform meeting in Georgia

Jessica is having an Obama playdate in Massachusetts

*You may have noticed on our group profile that we have one item in dark bold. We felt this was a great place to send a message to you without sending an email! This past week we highlighted the donation and get a chance to go to the denver convention opportunity, shared that the campaign has a sale on some shirts in their online store (now who reading this does not love a bargain?), and currently it has a link to a video of real people, supporters like you and me, speaking out about the economy.

********
Women and mothers have been the lifeblood in our communities and the leaders of change. Who else raises money for the school or leads the cleanup of a local eyesore- an old industrial site or abandoned lot? Thanks to Rosa ALL Americans can sit wherever they want on the bus.

Wishing you could do something for the campaign? Do something, just one thing. You can start by looking at the EVENTS near you. You can get out and work or socialize. Try hosting! Even the administrators for the Moms for Obama have taken the plunge. Earlier this week I hosted a postcard party. Next week Carolyn is hosting a social. Gail is holding a Listening to America Platform meeting later this month.

Ready to connect with your neighbors? You can get a list of voters, script and other information via the site. If leaving home is not an option there are things you can do! Connect with your local grassroots group to see if they need some help. Sit down and write postcards to other voters. You can blog. Make phone calls from home using this site via the ACTION Center. Lend your talents to a fundraiser or event (like quilting squares, organizing the volunteers, or making cakes for bake sales). Hold a yard sale and send the money to the campaign. Connect with your family and tell them why you support Obama and encourage them to consider him too.

...And please reach out to your local Obama for America campaign office. Did you know that many of our Obama organizing fellows, interns, and paid staff may have never lived in your town or state? I admire their enthusiasm, commitment, and HOPE. I encourage you to introduce yourself and see if there are opportunities to lend a hand. Besides needing supplies (trust me it is paper- be it toilet or computer!) they love getting contact information for community groups and leaders. While you are it- why not invite them over for dinner? You have at least one thing in common ;)

No matter who you are
or
where you are
You can be the change

***
We close with this quote-

"I love this country. I believe in the bright light of hope and possibility. I always have, even in the darkest hours. I know what America can achieve. I've seen it. I've lived it--and with Barack Obama, we can do it again.

I know that he's ready to be President on day one. And when he raises his hand on Inauguration Day, at that very moment, we will lift the spirits of our nation and begin to restore America's standing in the world..." Senator Edward Kennedy, 1/28/2008, Washington DC

Thanks for reading and have a great week!

Mid America Mom
Co Administrator - Moms for Obama

Obama activities abound

Mid America Mom — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 11:21:06 EDT

Illinois -Yes We Can! Are you ready to campaign or meetup with local supporters? Now is the time! The grassroots in the NW suburbs is busy as the Barack Obama activities abound.

Can you bowl at least a 37?
Come show your bowling (or in Barack's case non bowling) skills at the Bowling for Unity event tomorrow afternoon in Lake Zurich.

How about a social dinner? Join us at a local dining institution! Thursday the 24th we are at Walker Brothers Original Pancake House . And yes they have other food besides breakfast (I do not know about you but I can eat breakfast anytime and the coffee is wonderful).

Is marching in a parade more your style?

Come join other Obama supporters and the local democratic party at the McHenry Fiesta Days Parade on the 20th. The last parade was one of the best ones yet and FUN (see blog).

Want to help but dislike talking directly to voters? Wondering what can I do then? Are you willing to write? Join us for the ever popular Postcards for Obama event in the Palatine/Arlington Heights area next Wednesday, the 16th. Signup is required.

Do you like the one to one contact with voters? YES? Put your best foot forward LITERALLY by canvassing in our neighboring and swing state- Wisconsin.

Roadtrip on Saturday the 19th. Those of you who have not done it before we carpool, provide training, and canvassing veterans are willing to pair with you.

Once again Barack Obama is opening up the process to the citizens like you and me. We have a wonderful opportunity to make our voices heard in the Democratic Party Platform. At meetings nationwide people will construct platform suggestions that will be incorporated into the formal platform process. As of now there is one scheduled in Algonquin and others soon to follow.

Keep your eye out for other activities this month in EVENTS or on our group page. And it doesn't end in July! So far we have a fun night at the theatre for a fundraiser. Help staff a booth at the Palatine Streetfest and more postcards await your pen.

Illinois - Yes we Can!

Mid America Mom *Join the NW Suburbs of Chicago for Obama - Link*

*Looking for decent priced campaign gear? Shirts are on sale now in the official store. You also can link to other union made official merchandise there*

Purple Parade

Mid America Mom — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:24:31 EDT

I found red, blue and purple at the Crystal Lake parade this year. And there was Tabitha. This is a story of a city/county that is RED much like the city of Chicago is always BLUE.

In McHenry county all your neighbors are Republicans and it is a shock to the system when you find someone that is not. No one pulls the Democratic Primary ballot. Why should we? Most the time there are few democratic candidates, if any, running. During the general we are used to seeing Republicans unopposed. Bush won handily in 2000 and 2004.

This year the Democratic party enjoys more participation and excitement then has been seen for a time. At this parade we saw it in force. Here is our group before the parade started

and the Republicans

We had multiple banners, two vehicles, people walking with signs. Merri was wearing a shirt from the Iowa JJ, many had the Obama 08' or other candidates, and another had a Vote for Change shirt. I held the round O sign someone picked up at the Harkin Steak Fry last summer and others had signs and yardsigns from the Super Tuesday primary and later. My husband and I fashioned an "Obama stroller" with a yard sign, pompoms, and flags.

There are candidates running for state and county seats. Part of the county lies in the 8th IL congressional district and is represented by a democrat , Melissa Bean. Last cycle she won this decades long Republican seat and is up for re-election. The other part of the county lies in the 16th and this year Bob Abboud stepped up to the democratic plate to run against an incumbent Republican!

They are finding support among swing Republicans (like myself) and the independent minded. My friend Matt, who walked a few other parades in the suburbs this past week, commented that this parade had the most excitement of them all. It even started before we started to march! Members of my church (a United Church of Christ church) had a float. Some of them gave a thumbs up and came to talk to our group. Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam (a supporter who had to stay neutral) stopped by.

Even though we were in one of the last spots of the parade our mile plus march was welcomed. Our cheers found voices in the crowd. We had people consistently waving, making positive comments, many shook hands with the candidates, and yes some petted the dog (Bob's).

Future Congressman?

Ok the proud Mom is taking over for a paragraph :) These were the youngest supporters in the parade.

Jenna refused to wear her Barack Obama profile shirt so I put her in a Hawaiian sundress as an ode to Barack and completed it with a button. She walked for about a third of it, waving a sign or playing a toy horn before she had a mini meltdown and was put into the stroller. Kayla wore her 4th of July sundress and had a YES WE CAN button. She also walked about half the parade with whatever struck her to carry which included a pompom, flag, tamborine, and sign. Yes they even cheered! Jenna asks everyday "I want Barack Obama parade" to which we reply - later this month (McHenry on the 20th of July)!

And I cannot leave without mentioning Tabitha. I first met her at a phonebanking event during the primary. Then I ran into her in Indiana for voter registration efforts. She drove over 30 miles to march in this parade (it is not even in her county). I was impressed already and as you can see she came prepared - complete with a bazooka!

Oh yes watch out Republicans! From this parade experience I forecast the color Purple is IT for the fall.

From the grassroots- Mid America Mom

*Thanks to Lynda for some of the pictures*

ABroad Appeal at the border

Mid America Mom — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 02:29:19 EDT

One of my earlier posts I was recounting being in Detroit on my way to Toronto in late June.

The following day, after a nice breakfast at the Inn, it became hectic. We scrambled to get documents and our paperwork together. We did not have directions to the office we were going to. While driving around we stopped at a hotel to ask a bellman (travelers tip #1- if you are lost, need to know where something is, or the best place to go for whatever you want- this is the place. Tip is appreciated!). Then we were off to an immigration office. And of course when you are running behind...they had one of those long lines that snaked, posted that it shuts down around lunch, and one attendant! After an hour of waiting, the attendant tells us we need to go somewhere else. By then half the day was done.

So into the car once more WITH directions :) to the border. One toll later we were stuck in the customs line that never moves. Back up the car, over to another line, and HOPE. By this time I was wondering if we were going to be in Toronto by night fall. Straight to the point but informative guard? points us to the Canadian immigration building. I eye it suspiciously. A low gray building, few windows, minimal parking, and two guards come up to the car while we are parking and ask what we are there for. I imagine this is what jail looks and feels like. Little did I know I was going to have an Obama moment in there.

We are directed up a ramp to glass doors. Behind them it feels like the cashier area at a car dealership. A run of a high counters, pexiglass, bathroom in the corner, bookcase with literature, and it looks like the staff is more milling about then working. BUT I am reminded that it is not as these workers have official looking dark wool uniforms with patches, hideous looking shoes (they look like a policeperson's- big sole, all dark, look umcomfortable), and some of them have bullet proof vests. We are told to go through yet another door and I expected to see yet another line. Nope , open it up, it makes one of those chimes. A couple and another gentleman are sitting in chairs and there is no one at the pexiglassed windowed counter. Why are they waiting? They say nothing to us. My husband and I look at each other and peer into the area behind the counter. It is filled with a hall that has offices off of it and no one is there. We comment out loud about where the attendant was hoping that one of the other people waiting have some advice.

About then a women in the same uniform comes to the window. She looks over to the gentleman and literally scolds him "You keep going out and set it (the chime) off! I did not think anyone was here!" and she turns to us. She looks annoyed and hot. I am thinking this was not a good sign to get us through, let alone to Toronto, by night. We let her lead the conversation.

She wants to know what we need and asks standard questions- Why are you here and for how long. "Going to school?" she says with a questionable facial expression. My husband is not what you call a traditional graduate student. He is a little bit older than others in his class. She adds that it is wonderful that we came North since most go South. We then move onto a work permit. When I looked at the rules I saw that I could have one. This is more tricky as it is difficult to obtain these at all. After some searching she seems frustrated. She then wanders down a quiet back hall in search of some coworkers. I am preparing myself to find a seat as I think no one is down there. But after a short wait she returns and and tells us I can have one as spouse of a student- as the rules had changed.

Out of the blue she comments on my Obama button. I did not expect that! And second thought was worry that this may not go well. But to my surprise she shares that she was looking all over and never found a button. Being next to Michigan which had no campaign offices or staff in it due to the primary campaigning agreement, I was not surprised. I said "Well I'm not sure if this is proper or not but you can have this one if you like. I have others."

She did not take it but the tone and manner changed to one of kinship.

Mid America Mom

Connecting American style

Mid America Mom — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 00:22:59 EDT

I am on the road again. Actually folks not on the road for Obama (this time!) but I am always there for Obama.

Husband and I are taking some time to go to North-Canada.. Toronto via Detroit in our car. Rain 50% of the time. Construction in every state (that being IL, IN, MI). Cop cars - is it ticket time? Slept part of the time but restless as I kept waking with change of lanes. Then we kept missing our turn for the inn. We were late checking in and worried about having a room. I was tired. I looked like and felt like hell.

Check in clerk was awfully nice for being so late and rambled not too much. I paid half attention while thinking ahead to a hot shower with those little fancy soaps and fluffy towels and watching colbert report. In the midst of that he told me- "I like your button".

"Um-What?" was my response.

"Your button.."

"Oh! I forgot I had it on!" while I felt the heat on my face. "Me too" I said with a smile and slowly walking away to get the luggage (thinking I really should stop to talk or give him this one but I am sooooo tired).

Now what Graduate?

Mid America Mom — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 15:03:54 EDT

Oh finally school is over! You sat through the rosy commencement speeches, attended rounds of food laiden graduation parties, and your own was filled with cash, pictures, and praise.

But soon "real" life begins. Now what Graduate?

Your Choice

Mid America Mom — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 11:56:08 EDT

Partial repost from a comment.

Those who read my posts know I do not tread on controversy. I choose to be a cheerleader 95% of the time because I am so passionate and committed to CHANGE. America needs to get to work on a healthcare solution, economic resolution, and a Iraq conclusion.

Back in 2000 I was a McCain supporter. Was I that informed? No. I saw him as the candidate of change from watching and reading. But I was one that did little research and did my duty by voting in my party. If I knew then what I know now about his involvement in the Keating 5, treatment of his wives, and thoughts on reproductive rights, he would not have received my primary vote.

Thinking back to the South Carolina primary and speaking to a friend there, I realize that yes some people do say things as a cover - to not admit their true feelings. There they cited the muslim smear as a reason to not support Obama as a substitute for racism. Should it happen? no. Does it happen? yes. Is it fair? NO.

****

But I ask those voters this---What do we and the world need now? I think you would agree that we are long overdue for change. We deserve the respect to make reproductive choices without fear of losing them. We need to address Iraq- care for the thousands of disabled and repair our standing in the world community, provide jobs that pay a decent wage, and have access to decent and affordable healthcare.

Who will respect your wishes from the oval office come January 2009? This moment in history we need more from our leaders and government than ever before. It is time for government to respect us again, to listen to us, and work for US the whole 50 United States of America- all faith, race, creed, gender, age and ideology.

I urge you to look at the records of the candidates and the issues rationally. Please tune into your women's intuition and listen and learn from it. Then make peace with your candidate choice and support them wholeheartedly.

For me there is only one

Barack Obama

And I hope you join me.

Mid America Mom - Moms for Obama

Helping out in your pajamas

Mid America Mom — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:17:11 EDT

No matter who you are
or
where you are
you can Be the Change

You are thinking pajamas- WHAT!!????

Apex

Mid America Mom — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:31:42 EDT

I am just like- it really has happened? Barack Obama is the nominee? This must be some dream. Been a long road since Feb 2007 and it is amazing that this campaign has turned into a movement. A movement of Change and promise and yes hope!

Over one million people have fueled this campaign, millions more caucused and voted for him, thousands of grassroots supporters knocked on doors- made calls- wrote cards and letters- registered voters (and MORE!), and hundreds of staff blanketed the country! Every state was touched by this campaign somehow... Who ever thought that it was possible let alone happen?

And I do reflect on this journey of mine. I think back as if it is one of those montages set to music. These scenes from youtube, msm, and my own experiences meld into one. With the power of the internet and this robust online community I have found my voice and amazing group of friends. I never did anything for a candidate before- besides voting. I like to say I am as unlikely as a supporter as he is a candidate! Yes a stay at home Republican mom of two little ones turned into a grassroots activist for a biracial freshman Democratic Senator from Chicago! What an American story.

Yes we are Americans first of all. This is how we rekindle the sense of shared prosperity, reclaim our voice, and restore our faith in government and America's promise. This is the moment we knew existed as it lives within us as part of the American Dream.

I look forward to the day it begins - with the election of President Barack Obama.

Outside US Cellular Field (White Sox) Chicago, Walk for Change

The beginning. Jay in the office -Washington, Iowa

Postcards for the Primary - on Joanne's farm in rural Peoria County IL

Family affair. Registration efforts for the Indiana Primary

West Burlington Iowa Townhall - March 2007

Mid America Mom

No matter who you are

where you are

you can Be the Change

Roadblock?

Mid America Mom — Sun, 25 May 2008 21:21:32 EDT

Knocking on the door of a neighbor causes you to sweat? The thought of volunteering at a booth invites visions of hiding under the table? Making phone calls to strangers bring on a headache?

Sound familiar?

I think that all of us, if asked, would like to do something for this campaign but see a roadblock.

American Dreams

Mid America Mom — Mon, 19 May 2008 22:01:48 EDT

America is the sum of our dreams. And what binds us together, what makes us one American family, is that we stand up and fight for each other's dreams, that we reaffirm that fundamental belief - I am my brother's keeper, I am my sister's keeper - through our politics, our policies, and in our daily lives. It's time to do that once more. It's time to reclaim the American dream. Senator Barack Obama 11/7/07 Iowa

Moms Busy on their day

Mid America Mom — Thu, 15 May 2008 23:49:08 EDT

Moms and their families in Oregon decided this Mother's Day not to rest but to get BUSY! Busy canvassing to elect our next President- Barack Obama! We would like to share it with you here via a blog from campaign headquarters- http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/stateupdates/gGBfKd

Those of you in Oregon the last day of voting is the 20th. Those who have not yet mailed them, that is OK. There are designated areas for you to drop off the ballot and our campaign has information for doing so on this site on the Oregon State page here-http://my.barackobama.com/page/content/orhome . If you have even an hour of time they would love to put you to work! Those of you in the Portland area can find some events posted in the moms for obama group.

And as the roots of Mother's Day in America is of activism I applaud all moms and families that participated. You are being the change.

Mid America Mom *Moms for Obama

A footprint

Mid America Mom — Mon, 12 May 2008 10:42:14 EDT

After reading his first book- Dreams from my Father- I really wanted to know more about his mother. His mother has long since passed but her footprint is everywhere.

Hope

Mid America Mom — Sun, 04 May 2008 23:24:56 EDT

Indiana, South Bend. Parts of this town has fallen on hard times- potholes bigger than the car, boarded up homes, shuttered factories. Contrast that with a pristine area around Notre Dame and some of the suburbs with these homes with three car garages and perfect lawns.

This is a new and exciting experience. I am staying with a host that I never met (she works for a local non profit and very busy this time of year), in a town I have only been in three times in my life (this 4 day stint and two other weekends of registering voters last month), and Friday I came alone and knew one person, Thomas (standing in center)

and he is an organizer for the campaign that I met here a few weeks ago. I was not sure what I would find or feel.

What a hub of campaign activity. The backdrop was a famous local landmark, the West Side Democratic Club where the Clinton and Kennedy clans have stumped. And this wonderful polish inspired club is ours!

It is a staging location for hoards of volunteers that are hitting the streets and knocking on thousands of doors. A melting pot with the young and old, different backgrounds, some made it a family affair. Students, locals, and out of state all coming together. I am amazed at the mass of cars with diverse plates from states such as - Maryland, California, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa... We had a large group down from the NW suburbs of Chicago yesterday that were covered by the press back home. And this is not our first day or last in this city (many of the quoted folks can be seen here during registration efforts-

The California plate belongs to a relocated man from San Diego to Chicago, Ken. He is recently unemployed and thought why not come help out? His mother lives in South Bend and is putting him up for a few days. In the car with him for the day was an electrican from Chicago that told me he wanted to show support from a "working man". Today I ran into Troy, a tradesman from IBEW153, as he was coming back from canvassing. He is one of the grassroots organizers of a local mybarackobama group- yes we can michiana. Created before the campaign presence they helped find office space, identified local supporters, and found volunteers of which 80 walked in the St. Patrick's Day parade.

At the South Bend Headquarters the American spirit is at work. People are in and out, working on numerous computers, organizing packets, answering the busy phone, and making hundreds of calls.

On the walls you can find some art work from Troy's daughter

my girls

and a sign from Jully and her daughter Taylor

Jully loves Senator Obama's background as she too is of many places, races and colors. A one time Army brat she now calls Indiana home. Her Mother was Japanese, Father was part Creek Indian and African American. She shared that a phrase her Mother would often say was "Always live your life without regret". And Jully is doing so, as a volunteer, for the campaign.

And out in the streets Senator Obama is appealing to everyone. I come across democrats are grateful that this time, the first time in a long time, their voice- their vote- matters. Yesterday in a working class area of older homes and chain link fences I found a teenaged girl getting ready to go to work at a local diner. She tells me that there is "no other", this is the first time she is voting, and asks for a button and the hours of early voting on Monday. And early voting is a hit in South Bend as we can see- LINK. For a few days I walked in an area of beautiful well kept homes in suburbia. I found a few Republicans and some crossovers among them. These crossovers were voting for or leaning toward Senator Obama! One conversation stuck out to me. In the doorway of a home I would not dream of ever being able to afford, talking to a self proclaimed lifelong Republican, this middle aged woman told me America is in need of change and she sees that in him.

These past days in South Bend I have seen the future. It is one of optimism, dedication, a renewed American spirit.

I feel Hope in Indiana.

Mid America Mom

Around town I found a friendly reminder:

Our Sight

Mid America Mom — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:27:35 EDT

What should Post Bush look like? How should we treat one another? America what will be the spirit of our nation?

We all have a sense of what that looks like and who will help deliver it. But in these grueling months since Iowa filled with kitchen sinks, a pastor gone astray, a finger wagging and ranting ex-president - we have lost sight.

Yesterday it was clear there is one politician who genuinely wants us to move onward, together.

Last week, fresh off my return from volunteering in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania I challenged the online community with this comment on the Headquarters Blog:
I am a Republican. I am a wife and a mother of two small children. YES I AM one in million. We have reached a place in this race that I wonder, Democrats out there, are you truly ready to welcome the crossover Republicans to the movement? If so send a friend request.
BE the CHANGE

23 is victory

Mid America Mom — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 01:56:19 EDT

Originally I was going to write the "isn't this great - cheer us on" type of piece. But after a three hour nap my mind is leading me elsewhere.

Open Debate Thread for 4.16 Watchers Project

Mid America Mom — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 19:38:05 EDT

Here is your open debate thread. Thank you for participating!

Reminder-

1. As of now Mid America Mom will be the moderator and, if needed, delete any inappropriate comments and blogs. I highly doubt it will happen but any inappropriate language, infighting, or attacks among each other will not be allowed.

2. We will
-participate in ONE debate thread by commenting to it. This is unlike the HQ blog which keeps moving where people are all over the place and tend to be left behind...
-possibly vote in a few polls (last time we had technical difficulty so we will see).
-share feedback afterwards. We will send along the blog to HQ.
-link to some major media sites in case you want to blog or comment on them.

4.16 Polls for Watchers

Mid America Mom — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 19:35:53 EDT

Click- here

It is on my myspace page. Give it a few moments to load.

Feedback from 4.16 Watchers Project

Mid America Mom — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:39:33 EDT

Share your feedback on our candidate's debate performance!

Reply/Comment below. This specific thread will be sent to the campaign after 24 hours is up.

***********

Go here to our debate poll in a blog on my myspace page . Will take a moment to load!

Enjoy!

Links to other sites

Mid America Mom — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 11:56:50 EDT

Hi here you will find links for various sites that hopefully have some coverage or a thread.

*Some of you suggested we link out to them and leave comments as well, if we can.* We would love if you would participate in this. Some posts may be tomorrow after the debate like for the newspapers!

I did not look for any debate threads since done in advance.

*******

Daily Kos- http://www.dailykos.com/

MSNBC- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032553/ their "First Read page" http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/

Politico - http://www.politico.com/politics08/

Chicago Tribune http://www.chicagotribune.com/

*************

Mydd - http://www.mydd.com/

New York Times-

http://www.nytimes.com/pages/politics/index.html?adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1193760201-hMhBj6+aow+XVt+PJDJubw

CNN- http://www.cnn.com/POLITICS/

*********

Open Left - http://www.openleft.com/frontPage.do

Do not laugh now but a link to Fox News - http://www.foxnews.com/politics/index.html

The Atlantic http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/

LA Times http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/?track=leftnav-politics

********

One million Strong (gathering place outside mybo for bloggers) http://www.onemillionstrong.us/frontPage.do

Yahoo News- http://news.yahoo.com/fc/US/2008_Presidential_Election

Huffington Post- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost.com/

****

If anyone finds a bad link please comment below and provide the proper link. thanks!

Up late doing taxes?

Mid America Mom — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 01:27:16 EDT

My husband and I dread the drain of our time on a weekend or if really bad- the burning the midnight oil the last day. I do not recall fondly the mad scramble around the house looking for the lost W2. After it is all said and done, I think- shouldn't there be a national holiday, the next day, to recover?

Obamacast I

Mid America Mom — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 22:47:44 EDT

Today the Headquarter's blog featured the newest Ad ---> Here .

Yesterday someone commented that they wanted to link a CNN clip and could not. At an event I attended the topic of video came up and just how much we see out there. And then I have had a hard time this week keeping up as my kids are going to bed later (they just do not understand that is when Mommy gets alot of work done) !

One Call = One Blessing

Mid America Mom — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:41:20 EDT

Last night at a phonebank to Oregon I had a great conversation with a newly relocated Arizonian.

Painless volunteering on 4/2

Mid America Mom — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 13:09:18 EDT

Hi everyone! Looking for a painless and easy volunteer activity to do?

This grassroots effort is a personal outreach to undecided voters in Pennsylvania. Wednesday, next week, come to a Postcard for PA party in Algonquin! The host supplies the postcards and postage, some suggestions of what to write, and you fill them out. Yes it is that easy! WELL-- maybe a finger cramp will come out of it ;)

Event is posted on the group page and can be found here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4rgtm

Last meeting in LITH some of you helped with a few and that is great but we wanted to do a few more before being sent on and thought why not make it an event?

Thanks!
Mid America Mom

Volunteering made easy

Mid America Mom — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:10:00 EDT

Thinking I would like to help but have little time? Or maybe you are looking for some hard to come by Obama gear?

We'll take the time and give back to you in return.

Your Voice

Mid America Mom — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 23:53:50 EST

On February 5th we made history! Illinoisans and citizens across the country stood up, stepped out, and cast their vote for Senator Barack Obama.

You made it happen. Your vote is your power, your voice.

"....So tonight I want to speak directly to all those Americans who have yet to join this movement but still hunger for change - we need you. We need you to stand with us, and work with us, and help us prove that together, ordinary people can still do extraordinary things.

...We are the hope of the future; the answer to the cynics who tell us our house must stand divided; that we cannot come together; that we cannot remake this world as it should be.

Because we know what we have seen and what we believe - that what began as a whisper has now swelled to a chorus that cannot be ignored; that will not be deterred; that will ring out across this land as a hymn that will heal this nation, repair this world, and make this time different than all the rest - Yes. We. Can." Senator Barack Obama, Chicago, February 5, 2008

Yes YOU can.

Tuesday, our neighbor, Wisconsin, has their chance to make history. We need your help in making that a reality. Lend your VOICE to this campaign. And it will join the chorus of thousands making phone calls and talking to people on their doorsteps.

Here are some opportunities for you to canvass a Wisconsin neighborhood:

Are you an Evanston area resident that can give one day? Also you can leave from Downtown to go to Milwaukee!

Can you go this Saturday?

Join others from the Chicago Northwest Suburbs or Chicago's Lakeview. Downstate you have options as well! Are you from Champaign or Decatur? From where it all started we are departing as well (How could you forget Springfield?)! And those in the center are invited too- McLean County and Peoria Area residents.

Are you a college student downstate? We have four trips for you to choose from: Millikin University, Bradley University, University of Illinois, ISU and IWU.

Or maybe Sunday?

From Gurnee they are going to Kenosha. Are you in Highland Park?

Make a few phone calls!
You can phonebank in your pajamas! No KIDDING. Using your phone and this internet site you can phone our neighbors to the North from home- Link (Sorry folks no picture for that one!)
If being with others is more your style check out these events:
You can phonebank in Highland Park Thursday evening. Those in Oak Park and Arlington Heights are making calls Sunday. And always you can phonebank at the volunteer center in downtown Chicago.

Yes YOU can. Your voice can change the world!

Mid America Mom

A Movement

Mid America Mom — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 09:07:05 EST

I saw the rally in California on TV with Oprah, Caroline, Maria, and Michelle, and Saturday I attended
the rally in St. Louis and thought

WOW

I love seeing all these women taking a stand for our country, for our families.

We are the movement of change.

We've got the Power

Mid America Mom — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 14:04:13 EST

Super Tuesday, Tsunami Tuesday, super duper tuesday... I bet most of you are voting or caucusing this Tuesday.

Journey (1)

Mid America Mom — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 03:46:11 EST

"I believe that a wave of change is moving across America. If we do not turn aside, if we dare to set our course for the shores of hope, we together will go beyond the divisions of the past and find our place to build the America of the future.

My friends, I ask you to join in this historic journey -- to have the courage to choose change. It is time again for a new generation of leadership. It is time now for Barack Obama." Senator Ted Kennedy

In 2 hours my husband and I are taking a special roadtrip. Traveling 175 miles through the small towns, past the snowy farm fields, to the gateway to the west - St Louis. And we travel in our "new" car (a 1995 Camry with 119,000 miles), hoping it does not break down, and spending money on gas that we do not have.

But besides that my being here, writing to you, is as unlikely as a son of a Kenyan and Midwesterner running for President. I am a 36 year old stay at home Republican mother of a 2 year old and 3 year old, from Illinois. Never voted in a democratic primary, never gave money, and never gave any time to any race in my lifetime. And I have been here from the start- almost one year now. Making calls, walking the streets, having events, giving money, and spent a week in Iowa for the caucus.

Why? There are moments in time that mark history. The American promise is lost at sea after 8 years of a dysfunctional cowboy at the helm. What happened to the American idealism and Dream? The American Soul is suffering. Our children are being killed, our families are unable to afford health insurance, we have lost our national pride. Now is the time to act.

And mothers like you and me carry with us that optimism that we harbor for our children, for America. That life is what we make of it, we are only limited by that which we place on ourselves, and dreams and hope and hard work makes it happen. We know, deep down that America and the world crave the hope, direction, and promise of Change.

And as I look into the eyes of my children and listen to the dreams of Americans,

I see shores of hope

in the journey that is Barack Obama.

VOTE, make a call, send an email, knock on one door...

Mid America Mom / Moms for Obama- http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/MomsforObama

Do One Thing

Mid America Mom — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 11:15:35 EST

Last weekend I met Trey. Sunday afternoon he came out to walk a Peoria neighborhood getting out the vote.

I was impressed. It was not just that he was taking time away from his family AND job. It was the first time in his life that he has canvassed. And after talking to a voter at this home

he shared that he may road trip to St. Louis this weekend doing the same.

He wanted to do something. As Trey realized, Now is the time.

… I’m asking for your hands. I’m asking for your help. And I’m asking for your hearts. And if you will stand with me in the days to come - if you will stand for change so that our children have the same chance that somebody gave us; if you’ll stand to keep the American dream alive for those who still hunger for opportunity and thirst for justice; if you're ready to stop settling for what the cynics tell you you must accept, and finally reach for what you know is possible, then we will win these primaries, we will win this election, we will change the course of history, and light a new torch for change in this country – and “the glow from that fire can truly light the world." Senator Barack Obama - American University 1/28/2008

Lend your voice. Throughout this week in Central Illinois we are phonebanking and picking up local endorsements. We provide the phone, the script, and voter information. Only have an hour to spare? We will take it!

Join special guest Illinois Secretary of State Jessie White in Springfield on Tuesday at Noon. Live near Decatur? We are there Tuesday Night. On Wednesday evening supporters in Peoria will also see the media in attendance. Champaign area? See you on Friday. Before the Debate on Thursday join us in Normal.

*This weekend you can call 50-100 of your neighbors from the comfort of your home with our Central Illinois Phone Bank. See details here *

Those of you that would like to knock on doors and make those personal connections road trip with us to St. Louis on Saturday.

Like Trey, now is the time to do something, one thing, to help elect Barack Obama. And your one, and his, and others will add up to make history.

Mid America Mom - Obama in the Heart, Peoria IL

Welcome and Details to 4.16 Watchers Project

Mid America Mom — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 15:11:15 EST

Welcome to the 4th Watchers Project!

As Senator Kennedy said "Change is in the air". Our candidate has won the most contests, is leading the delegate count, and picked up the most superdelegate endorsements since February 5.

What is this???

Watch the DNC sanctioned debate on April 16th at 7-9 C.T. on ABC.

It will be on TV. And yes you can find it online- HERE

During and 24 hours after the debate participate in this grassroots debate watching group!

The group address is http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/131WatchersProject Right before the debate we will release into the group profile various links for this project.

We will
-participate in ONE debate thread by commenting to it. This is unlike the HQ blog which keeps moving where people are all over the place and tend to be left behind...
-possibly vote in a few polls (last time we had technical difficulty so we will see).
-share feedback afterwards. We will send along the blog to HQ.
-link to some major media sites in case you want to blog or comment on them.

Other notes

Please complete this as soon as possible but since we have active lives it will be Open for 24 hours after the debate is over.

As of now Mid America Mom will be the moderator and, if needed, delete any inappropriate comments and blogs. I highly doubt it will happen but any inappropriate language, infighting, or attacks among each other will not be allowed.

Do not send events, blog posts, or a list serv email. The list serv will be used by MOD only for communication purposes. Blog will contain only a few posts for the debate at hand. The event is for the project.

Yes we can change the world! Get out the vote and don't forget to vote :)

Our time

Mid America Mom — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 10:14:00 EST

Our time for change is Now. It's time for a new tone in our politics, of forward direction, and leadership.

And if you believe that, it can only happen with the election of someone who has worked for people, for change, all of their life, Senator Barack Obama.

But it can only happen if you and I make it so.

Time to Stand up, step out, and get out the vote for Senator Obama! This weekend, throughout Central Illinois, we will knock on doors and make phone calls.

Sign up for door to door canvassing:

Walk for change in Peoria on Saturday and Sunday

And Normal or Bloomington
Decatur on Saturday or Sunday

Champaign and Urbana

And the home of Lincoln, where this began, in Springfield here and here

Make phone calls:

Call from your home on Sunday at 1p.m. by taking part of the Central Illinois phonebank. Include your e-mail when you sign up and our field organizer will e-mail you a list of 50 Democratic phone calls to make in and around your community. Sign up here

And you can sign up to make calls on February 2nd- Link

Did you like (or miss out) on the road trips to Iowa?
You still can with our neighbors to the southwest- Missouri. We supply the transportation and you provide your enthusiasm and walking shoes! Sign Up

Thank you for keeping the hope, lending a hand, and supporting change. And come November, together, we will turn the page by delivering Senator Barack Obama to the White House!

Mid America Mom - Obama in the Heart, Peoria IL

*As a reminder you can vote NOW. Yes we can vote in person early before January 31st. Where do you go? Look here

Now is the Time

Mid America Mom — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 17:49:14 EST

Should we expect to see some mud slinging and twisted truth? This is after all the biggest election some of us have seen in a lifetime.

A vision

Mid America Mom — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:53:30 EST

Looking at the calendar it is a day to reflect and celebrate. Celebrate the birth of a great man, Martin Luther King Jr. He committed his passion and purpose in life to fulfilling a dream.

For Once

Mid America Mom — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 02:25:43 EST

I want a president who says WE instead of I

That is not afraid to tell me the TRUTH

For once I want to actually WATCH the State of the Union because I know it will be a great speech

I want a president that has DEDICATED their life for those who need a hand

That will do what is BEST for all the COUNTRY

For once I want to point to a president and tell my children "there is a HERO"

That will INSPIRE me to be a better American

FOR ONCE
I want a president that stands for ALL the PEOPLE

The time, our time, his time is NOW. YES we can do it! We are AMERICANS- we formed a whole new system of government, saved millions from tyranny, and even sent a man to the moon and planted a flag there.

What can you do? Pick up your phone and call your undecided friend. Ask your neighbor while shoveling snow or taking down decorations if they are following the race. Attend an Obama house party or organizing meeting. Lend your copy of one of his best selling books to a family member. Get out and canvass your neighborhood. And those of you that can, why not give a donation of 50?

Speaking of phone calls you have many options!
With the power of this internet site, your phone, and an easy to follow script you can call voters from your home. Sign up here
                                                      Are you in the Chicago area?
Campaign Volunteer Headquarters is located downtown and always looking for help.
If you have a cell (or not!) join fellow grassroots supporters over in the NW suburb of Arlington Heights on Tuesday the 22nd- Link
Do you live near or in Obama's neighborhood? Phone banking in Hyde Park next weekend on the 20th- Link
                                                     St Louis?
Call ahead (#314-436-5426) to signup for our Phone Bank at the SEIU Headquarters. It is located in the Central West End at 5585 Pershing Ave, Suite 230.
Currently our Hours are:
Monday - Thursday from 1pm-9pm and Friday from 1pm-8pm
Saturday from 10am-5pm    and   Sunday 1pm-8pm
                                               Central Illinois?

Join one of our mobile phone banks. We bring the phones to your area! This Wednesday, the 16th, they will be in Champaign- Link.

Next week look out for one in Peoria.

Be part of it.

And for once, when Barack Obama is President, you will say with pride "YES We Can".

Mid America Mom

Ah those tears

Mid America Mom — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 10:37:17 EST

I too think they were real

BUT

if you view the full clip- she finished the moment by, in the next breath, going back to her same OLD manner (see- http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=4097366 ).

And that is the reason the woman who made it happen, Ms. Young,

voted for (http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/politics/la-na-question10jan10,1,2913850.story?coll=la-news-politics-national&track=crosspromo )

Barack Obama

But Like Ms. Young many saw through this emotion to the core- that OUR candidate is the one that truly offers a different dialog and style of leadership.

That is what AMERICA is looking for

Mid America Mom

Primary Winner Prediction

Mid America Mom — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 13:59:49 EST

I was having fun in late December.

While speaking to a friend, before the Iowa caucus, I had come up with a theory on who will win the nomination.

Recently I also looked at the Republicans.

Perfect? No. Wonderful

Mid America Mom — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 11:50:18 EST

Ah the holidays!

I had visions of a Christmas bonding moment. My family of 4 is joyfully putting up the tree, singing to music, drinking eggnog, and placing ornaments on the tree.

We had to settle on listening to an Elvis Christmas CD, my preschooler evidently does not like eggnog (what kid does not like eggnog?), and my toddler refused to be picked up to place ornaments on the tree!

With two small kids most of the time I really do not know what to expect. But it does not have to be perfect – to be wonderful.

Obama shared this in Spartanburg, SC-
“…I don't pretend to be a perfect man, and I will not be a perfect President.
But I am in this race because I believe that if we want to break from the failures of the past and finally make progress as a country, we can't keep telling different people what we think they want to hear - we have to tell every American what they need to know. We have to be honest about the challenges we face…
I run for the presidency for the same reason I drove halfway across the country over two decades ago to bring jobs to the jobless and hope to the hopeless on the streets of Chicago; for the same reason I stood up for justice and equality as a civil rights lawyer; for the same reason I've fought for Illinois families for over a decade. Because I will never forget that the only reason I am standing here today is because someone, somewhere stood up when it wasn't popular, when it was risky; when it was hard. And because that someone stood up, a few more did. And then a few thousand. And then a few million. And together, they changed the world.”

As Moms we take the risks and endure the hard times because we know, deep down, that we can and do make a difference in our families and communities. We are sustained by the vision and optimism for what is possible.

And every day more and more Moms see that Barack Obama’s vision for America is a change we can believe in.

****

Some of our newest members wanted to share the following with you-

Hello everyone.

My name is Cathy and I live in Salt Lake City. I have never been interested in politics before, but after going through some of the worst two years of my life, I see the need for great changes in this country.

At first, I was going to vote for Clinton, because she is a woman and a mother, but after getting better acquainted with her campaign, I decided that she wasn't the best person for the job. Barack Obama embodies all of the issues that are important to us mothers, in regards to his plans for chance with the government, and focusing the attention on the issues on our own soil, and not those in other countries. I have two children, ages 3 and 17 months and I want them to grow up in a safer America. The issues here have gotten out of control, and too much attention has gone to the war abroad. Now is the time to act. Otherwise, we may have another 4-8 years of bad times.

Thanks for listening.

Cathy http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/gGZznv

*********

I support Barack Obama because of his policies;

1. Education: his plan for education is what we need right now; my husband is a Teacher and he goes through so much but get little pay and he does not want to leave teaching for a fast paying career because he believes our future starts from the class room and if we do not take care of our kids by teaching them the right and wrong way of doing things in life. Their future is doomed, so he has passion for teaching and I think that the educational proposal that Barack has will uplift the burden that Teachers go through on a daily basis.

2. Health care; I believe in universal health care and I know how beneficiary this plan will be for a mom of four like me. I pay so much for health care premiums and still have to pay more that insurance does not cover whenever I take my children to see a specialist. It is frustrating and we need a way out NOW and Barack is NOW for me.

JORK http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/gGZHXk

******

And last but not least a touching story from Jennifer http://my.barackobama.com/page/dashboard/public/gGvPdl

I'm 36 and I used to live 3 blocks from the World Trade Center. I worked in both towers at different times and was telecommuting to the north tower on 9/11, my husband and father also worked in the WTC but only my husband was at work that day. 206 of my friends and co-workers did not survive. My husband escaped. I was not really politically knowledgeable - or frankly too interested - before 9/11 and was raised Republican (voted for Gore, though).

The only way I could keep from going honestly and fully insane was to learn everything I possibly could about our Constitution, founding documents, history, government and politics. I figured I'd have to answer to my children one day and I wanted to be able to look them straight in the eyes. It wasn't long before I joined others in the fight to get a 9/11 Commission. And I won't even go on about Iraq here!

The craven political cowardice displayed by the Democrats was only outmatched in it's vile putridness by the Republicans' radical, manipulative and blasphemously opportunistic re-definition of what America is and should be - and which Americans, from red states only of course, should be considered "real" Americans (and that is just one of a million betrayals we have been subjected to).

The first glimmer I saw that someone (who was at least nearing access to the levers of power) hadn't forgotten the promise America represented to our first revolutionaries was Barack Obama at the Dem. National Convention. It was as if Tom Paine and Thomas Jefferson were being resurrected by Martin Luther King Jr. & Bobby Kennedy's dream walking.

I finally saw I wasn't alone, someone else remembered who we were - and this skinny man with the funny sounding name was the sanest person in Washington and had the ability to swat away the fearmongering with a smile. This man could not only remind us who we are but could show us a path we could take, true to the best in us, that would guide us through with our American soul intact.

There are times in history when change is abrupt, unavoidable and permanent. Every other politician with a real shot at the brass ring has compromised us for their own gain, and therefore can only offer a continued American nightmare.

I believe Barack Obama is the best and the brightest and can renew the American dream in us, propel us forward, and bring us together in a way we have not been since that day we were all the same, covered in the ashes of the Pentagon and Twin Towers.

***

Obama Roots 12/21

Mid America Mom — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 23:29:39 EST

Happy Holidays! Are you behind on the holidays like me? No tree yet, nothing wrapped, no decorations out, still stuff to buy!

The candidate is even ahead of me! From the looks of the new ad http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmB937L0bDY Senator Obama is all set!

Why he has our vote

Mid America Mom — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:32:56 EST

Why he has our VOTE? A few weeks ago a few us who read and comment on the headquarters blog commented on this question from member Matthew. I thought it would be nice to share this with the community today, 2 weeks before the Iowa Caucus.

After reading this- if you want to share why he has YOUR Vote - please reply!

Mid America Mom (Moms for Obama)

*********

College student silver lining

Mid America Mom — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:20:52 EST

For the flap surrounding college students in Iowa and the right to caucus we are missing another silver lining.

Stand Up

Mid America Mom — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 02:43:44 EST

What a sight! On the weekend we saw our friend and confidant, Oprah, with the most powerful politician for change, Obama, standing on a stage together. We all agree that they are an unlikely success. But here they are, on stages throughout the weekend, connecting with over 66,000 Americans from all walks of life.

The tide of change rolled into South Carolina. Tens of thousands enjoyed great music, reveled in a wonderful speech from Oprah, and hung onto Obama’s message. Oh yes, thousands used their cell phone to call voters literally while in the audience. And we made history. This mass of motivated men and women set the Guinness world record for largest phone bank.

And this is just one step in the mission he has laid forth.

“...In America, each of us seeks our own dreams, but the sum of those dreams must be greater than ourselves. Because the America we inherited is the legacy of those who struggled, and those who served in so many ways, before us…
Renewing that spirit starts with service. Make no mistake: our destiny as Americans is tied up with one another. If we are less respected in the world, then you will be less safe. If we keep paying dictators to fill up our gas tanks, then those oceans are going to rise. If we can't give our kids a world-class education, then our economy is going to fall behind…
And that's how it should be. It is time to recapture that sense of a common purpose: I am my brother's keeper, I am my sister's keeper. I'm tired of hearing about how America is on the wrong track - I want us to come together to put it on the right track. I'm tired of hearing about red America and blue America - I want to lead a United States of America. I'm tired of talking about what we can't do, or won't do, or won't even try - I want all of us to stand up and to start reaching for what is possible.”
Barack Obama -A Call to Serve

It takes all of us to stand up for the dream, which is America, and reclaim it!

Find something,

one thing;

You can do to help elect Obama.

Join me in standing up and stepping out to the street to canvass.

And your one thing, and mine, and others WILL add up to a movement that changes history!

Mid America Mom

RootS for Obama

Mid America Mom — Sun, 09 Dec 2007 18:49:35 EST

Because when you strip us all down, when you take away our race, our ethnicity, our backgrounds, our sex, when you strip us all down, we are American at our core. We are American in our hopes and our dreams...what we really have is an abiding faith that life can be better for all us...Many colors, religions and languages with one Congress and one President.

And because we only get to choose one, I came out to tell you why that choice

needs to be Barack Obama.

(Oprah, Iowa, 12/8/2007)

Our Test

Mid America Mom — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 02:15:21 EST

Obama supporters this is a TEST.

Test of our resolve, of attitudes, and yes of faith. What this campaign means to You.

The Obama ROOTS - 11/27

Mid America Mom — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 18:06:55 EST

INSERT Dick Cheney joke.

Nope this is another installment of the Obama Roots!

But before..you may have seen the release of Fact Check. "The Obama campaign launched http://factcheck.barackobama.com. The website is designed to help correct the record, dispel rumors and keep our opponents and the media accurate. The site will be constantly updated with information, so its a great tool to use while you're volunteering."

I'd keep that bookmarked folks!

Moms Thanksgiving Reflections

Mid America Mom — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 17:06:42 EST

Today, before this long weekend comes to a close, we are sharing some Thanksgiving thoughts.

I went through centuries of Thanksgiving proclamations to find something we need to be reminded of again. And this piece stood out.

After that you will find wonderful contributions from others like you. Last week we asked moms for Obama- What are you doing for Thanksgiving and where will you be spending it? What about Obama are you thankful for?

Enjoy. Mid America Mom (Moms for Obama)

Obama roots - again

Mid America Mom — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 01:11:34 EST

Thanksgiving is less than two days from now?

Besides the Pumpkin Cheesecake I plan to make I have no clue what else I will make this Thanksgiving.

Watchers Project 11/15 Other Sites (and Assignment)

Mid America Mom — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:45:47 EST

Hi here you will find links for various sites that hopefully have some coverage or a thread.

*Some of you suggested we link out to them and leave comments as well, if we can.*

We would love if you would participate in this. Below you will find your screen name and around 5 sites assigned (names being assigned during debate). You can go to all of them if you like but if you could minimally do the assigned ones that would be great! FYI Some posts may be tomorrow after the debate like for the newspapers!

*******

Like TV, Newspaper, Internet sites. I did not look for any debate threads since done in advance.

Daily Kos- http://www.dailykos.com/

MSNBC- http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032553/ their "First Read page" http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/

Politico - http://www.politico.com/politics08/

The State (S.C. newspaper) http://www.thestate.com/news/

Chicago Tribune http://www.chicagotribune.com/

WHO? Assigned to MarkkraM, Vicki, Amy, Carly, lionanimal, Kendy, TimChicago

*************

Mydd - http://www.mydd.com/

CNN- http://www.cnn.com/POLITICS/

Politico - http://www.politico.com/politics08/

Hew Hampshire Union Leader http://www.unionleader.com/

New York Times http://www.nytimes.com/pages/politics/index.html?adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1193760201-hMhBj6+aow+XVt+PJDJubw

WHO? Assigned to Warren and Carolyn, erika, greg,amalia (linnie if you are out there!), TCP..., freedom4u_n_me

*********

Open Left - http://www.openleft.com/frontPage.do

Do not laugh now but a link to Fox News - http://www.foxnews.com/politics/index.html

The Atlantic http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/

Des Moines Register http://desmoinesregister.com/

LA Times http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/?track=leftnav-politics

WHO? Assigned to Woodrow, laura lee-chin, Diamond, Debra Pascua, dimitris, Susan 4 obama,

********

One million Strong (gathering place outside mybo for bloggers) http://www.onemillionstrong.us/frontPage.do

Yahoo News- http://news.yahoo.com/fc/US/2008_Presidential_Election

Huffington Post- http://www.huffingtonpost.com/

Las Vegas Review-Journal http://www.lvrj.com/

Washington Post http://www.washingtonpost.com/

WHO? Assigned to Patty, Mid america mom, Marina, swimmer, lisa beyer, sharane, Ms Ciara

Open Thread - Watchers Project 11/15

Mid America Mom — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:44:13 EST

Here you are!
Online debate watching, sharing, AND feedback group! Details are HERE

Nov 15 at 7 PM C.T. on CNN This project runs for 24 hours

******************

Go Here for link to feedback blog plus link to POLLS LINK

Links to other sites so you can share there your ASSIGNMENT to do so.
LINK

***********

LISTSERV, which is moderated, will be used for communication to you.

We are participating in the group fundraising. First person to contribute Here Mid-America Mom will follow also with a $10 contribution in the pot!

Watchers Project 11/15 Feedback Blog (with Polls)

Mid America Mom — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 11:18:22 EST

Share your feedback on the debate!

Reply/Comment below. This specific thread will be sent to the campaign after 24 hours is up.

***********

This is a link to our debate poll. Will take a moment to load!

Technical issues. Will try to post good ones. I had to limit to five answers. Working on it at 9:30CT Mid-

Ok- issues with the new one too (note to group the last debate these worked great). Maybe I will tackle that tomorrow am! Sorry.

Enjoy!

Welcome to the Watchers Project and details

Mid America Mom — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 22:22:16 EST

Welcome to the Watchers Project!

Our candidate has been picking up since the last debate. Great speeches, strong on Meet the Press, positive print press and last night- we packed the house at the annual JJ Dinner in Iowa and the speech he gave us was brilliant.

I am fired up! This debate is going to be a good one folks!

******

At debate time you will find in the group profile various links.

Here we will participate in an open thread, vote in a few polls, share your feedback with the campaign. Those who prefer to add their own blog can do so.

We will also provide a link to some major media sites. Some of you will be asked to connect with a few to add your thoughts and others are free to do so as well of course!

Like participating or appreciate the group effort ? Do so by donating to our group fundraising.

**********

Watch the DNC sanctioned debate on November 15 at 8 E.T. on CNN.

It will be on TV. Not sure if they will have it online.

During and 24 hours after the debate, participate in the group! The group address is http://my.barackobama.com/page/group/1115WatchersProject

-One Blog will be our OPEN Thread

-One Blog will strictly be for you or your group to give feedback to the candidate/campaign and includes a link to vote in our own polls.

-One Blog will have links to some major media sites in case you want to add your $0.02 to any coverage they may have. Feel free to link whatever you add to them and share with us!

I will be the moderator and, if needed, delete any inappropriate comments and blogs. Think of this when you want to post negative -do as Barack Obama would do! I highly doubt it will happen but any inappropriate language, infighting, or attacks among each other will not be allowed.

Other notes

Please complete this as soon as possible but since we have active lives it will be Open for 24 hours after the debate is over.

Afterwards we may contact you for your Obama story and project feedback.

************

Ready to go? Now lets go change the world!

Mid- America Mom

Believe..

Mid America Mom — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 19:50:33 EST

"If you believe that the United States can do better. If you believe that we should change our course of action. If you believe that the United States stands for something here internally as well as elsewhere around the globe, I ask for your help and your assistance and your hand over the period of the next five months.

And when we win in November, and when we win in November, and we begin a new period of time for the United States of America - I want the next generation of Americans to look back upon this period and say as they said of Plato: "Joy was in those days, but to live."

Bobby Kennedy. March 1968 at the University of Kansas.

I look at today's date and think wow- it's already November! One year from now Barack Obama will be our newly elected president. And what will I do to fill my time ;) ? Last week was a busy Obama week.

Did you watch the democratic debate? Some of us in the grassroots ran an online debate watching/ discussion/ feedback group- the watchers project. (if you want to join us for the one on the 15th sign up here) It was a great debate, plenty to discuss, and I did not want it to end (ok- after the UFO question I thought maybe). In the midst of it I could see that he has respect for and from others, answers from truth, and believes that we can do and be better!

The next day, inspired by Senator Obama, a few of us participated in a community service project. This project feels like one he would like. Take a small group of committed people, give them some tools, add a great cause, and watch it grow.

A few years ago Patti Smith, mother of a deployed Marine, thought it would be nice to send Christmas packages to her sons' platoon. She believed she could do it and that year they sent hundreds. This member of the Central Illinois Proud Families of Marines non-profit group (cipfm.us) created "Operation Santa". Today it extends far beyond the local central Illinois troops deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq and includes all branches and even those not from Illinois. With help from 50 regular volunteers, countless other helpers, generous donors from Illinois to as far away as Oregon and Florida, this holiday season they are sending over 22,000 Christmas stockings! Next to moms with little kids to business men in their suits we were there in our Obama gear to stuff and send them on their way.

We thank our warriors for their sacrifice and hope they have a happy and safe holiday season.

On the weekend I found myself knocking on doors in rural Iowa.

Friday night my family traveled from Peoria to the suburbs of Chicago. Next day at 5:30 we woke and met up with our carpool. After the long car ride, a speeding ticket, and one pit stop we find ourselves at the field office in Independence Iowa. It has one couch, some chairs, few desks, and not much on the decorations. And there are others; some are my Obama friends from the Chicago area. What a place to meetup! We have a quick meeting with Audie, our local organizer, on what we are looking for, the route, how to use the caucus lists and we get dropped off in a small town.

One mother while she was ironing saw we were coming and opened the door to talk to us. I thought oh she is a supporter- but no. She, like most, is undecided and Obama is in her list (Matt, who drove us, joked that UNDECIDED is currently winning). During our conversation her daughter, maybe around 11, came to the door. She was excited- "OBAMA!" she yells. I walk away smiling. At another home we have a half hour conversation with a local politician and it covers a lot of territory. He is torn between two candidates. For him it is about electability. At this home

a middle aged woman answered the door and stepped out to talk a bit. I could tell from the sparkle in her eye and the tone of her voice that she was excited. We learn that she has been without health insurance for two years, something needs to change, and she believes that Barack Obama is the one to do it. On the bottom of the Obama sign up card we give her, she checks the- I will caucus box!

Reflecting on an earlier canvas I did in September and this one, I come to a realization. I find that almost every undecided voter, if they listed any candidate at all, has Barack Obama under consideration.
People are starting to believe that yes we can do better. Daring to lend their voice and commit their vote to reclaim the American dream.

It is time to lend a hand. Help canvas in your Sister City, tell your friends and family about your support, assist with making phone calls, and if you can, donate.

And next November you will have the wonderful memories and stories that you, with pride and a smile, can share with your kids and grandkids and great-grand kids. That you were part of the action, carried the hope, and helped to reclaim the American dream as part of the greatest movement seen since Kennedy.

Believe

Barack Obama '08

Mid -America Mom

The tide

Mid America Mom — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:46:39 EST

Since Feb 10 we have been here. Our ship has been sailing to our destination.

The tide

Mid America Mom — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:43:31 EST

Since Feb 10 we have been here. Our ship has been sailing to our destination.

The tide

Mid America Mom — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 18:06:32 EST

Since Feb 10 we have been here. Our ship has been sailing to our destination.

"IT"

Mid America Mom — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 11:13:14 EDT

Last night at the debate there was a question about electability. Being placed so early and pointedly at the frontrunner it does remind us that the general election looms large and that this president will have to reconcile.

So what is it about electability?

The 10/30 debate goes On for Watchers!

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:07:33 EDT

This project is open for 24 hours after the debate so feel free to take a break and come back throughout that time

to add any thing else!

Here is a link to add your feedback (to be sent to campaign on the debate)
and then link to polls I put on myspace
http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSbH

then link to outside media/internet sites if you want to visit those http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSzd

and here is that OPEN thread http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSfF

****

We will send an email to the listserv to get your feedback on this project.

Like it and want to do it again? Sign up for our next debate - watchers project from Las Vegas on November 15th here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4v52x

and please drop a little contribution Obama's way with your $5 or more in our group fundraising page here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/WatchersProjectII

Thanks!

Halloween- goes as what

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:02:34 EDT

Obama- girls mad professor and witch Obama thinks Romney mask?

*****

This project is open for 24 hours after the debate so feel free to take a break and come back throughout that time to add any thing else!

Here is a link to add your feedback and link to polls I put on myspace http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSbH then link to outside media/internet http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSzd

and here is that OPEN thread http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/mom/CSfF

****

We will send an email to the listserv to get your feedback on this project. Like it and want to do it again? Sign up for our next debate - watchers project from Las Vegas on November 15th here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/event/detail/4v52x

and please drop a little contribution Obama's way with your $5 or more in our group fundraising page here- http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/maingroup/WatchersProjectII

Imported toys

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:01:16 EDT

bIDen

Decrim marijuana

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 23:00:50 EDT

eDWARDS, dodd

Cancer- lance armstrong

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:59:41 EDT

Clinton

UFO - did you see?

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:57:26 EDT

Kucinich

Obama asked about life outside of earth.

Internet-jump on hillary

Mid America Mom — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 22:56:40 EDT

Gov't on content. Edwards spin to double talk.

Obama jumps on the bandwagon