Here in California, there is a proposition on the ballot that could change the way laying hens, pigs, and calves are treated. Proposition 2 would require farms to "allow them to turn around freely, lie down, stand up, and fully extend their limbs."

I've been very emotional about Sarah Palin since her announcement a week ago, and I have genuinely tried to examine why. I like her, I identify with her loving a big family, I appreciate that she lives unapologetically. I deeply, and very personally, celebrate that she is a high-profile example of how we should value all babies, even the inconvenient and the imperfect. Even when it changes your life and breaks your heart.

Though I am not a Democrat, I thought they put on a great show this last week. I couldn't help but admire their earnestness and eagerness to improve America. And no one can deny that Bill Clinton is a very genuine and persuasive speaker, he had even me wondering why it is I am voting for McCain? (Oh, yeah . . . Iraq, energy and drilling, conservative judges, sanctity of life, the first amendment . . . .)

I love being a mom to my very young children. I really do. I especially love the baby stage, I have said many times that I'll take an infant anyday, I can handle the sleep issues, crying, nursing, all that. I love that part and I feel like I'm good at it. It's when they start walking and talking that my patience and confidence wane. I still love it, but it is sooooooo hard.

Friday night is usually movie night at our house, especially when Jamie is gone. The kids get excited to pop popcorn, stay up a little later, and pick a movie On Demand. I like a good excuse for pizza and eating in front of the TV. This past Friday's pick was Meet the Robinsons, a movie we have seen before, but it's been awhile, and it was one of my favorite kids' movie's in a long time. I started it at about 7, and while the kids watched, I was busy with the pizza, the dishwasher, sorting mail, feeding the baby, changing a diaper, and then making popcorn.