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DETROIT (AP) — A steadily improving economy and strong December sales lifted the American auto industry to its best performance in five years in 2012, especially for Volkswagen and Japanese-brand vehicles, and experts say the next year should be even better.
Carmakers on Thursday announced their final figures, which totaled 14.5 million — 13 percent better than 2011.
More than three years after the federal government's $62 billion auto-industry bailout, Americans had plenty of incentive to buy new cars and trucks in the year just ended.
Unemployment eased. Home sales and prices rose. And the average age of a car topped 11 years in the U.S., a record that spurred people to trade in old vehicles. Banks made that easier by offering low interest rates and greater access to loans, even for buyers with lousy credit.
"The U.S. light vehicle sales market continues to be a bright spot in the tremulous global environment," said Jeff Schuster, senior vice president of forecasting for LMC Automotive, a Detroit-area industry forecasting firm.
Sales were far better than the bleak days after the U.S. economy tanked and GM and Chrysler sought bankruptcy protection. Back then, sales fell to a 30-year low of 10.4 million, and they are still far short of the recent peak of around 17 million set in 2005.
The best part of 2012 came at the end, when special deals on pickup trucks and the usual round of sparkling holiday ads helped December sales jump 9 percent to more than 1.3 million, according to Autodata Corp. That translates to an annual rate of 15.4 million, making December the strongest month of the year.
Volkswagen led all major automakers with sales up a staggering 35 percent, led by the redesigned Passat midsize sedan. VW sold more than five times as many Passats last year as it did in 2011.
Jesse Toprak, vice president of industry trends for TrueCar, said VW has the right mix of value and attractive vehicles and called the company "the force to watch in the next several years in the U.S. market."
Toyota, which has recovered from the earthquake and tsunami in Japan that crimped its factories two years ago, saw sales jump 27 percent for 2012. December sales were up 9 percent. Unlike 2011, the company had plenty of new cars on dealer lots for most of last year.
Honda sales rose 24 percent for the year. Nissan and Infiniti sales were up nearly 10 percent as the Nissan brand topped 1 million in annual sales for the first time. Hyundai sales rose 9 percent for the year to just over 703,000, the Korean automaker's best year in the U.S.
Chrysler, the smallest of the Detroit carmakers, had the best year among U.S. companies. Its sales jumped 21 percent for the year and 10 percent in December. Demand was led by the Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV, Ram pickup and Chrysler 300 luxury sedan.
But full-year sales at Ford and General Motors lagged. Ford edged up 5 percent and GM rose only 3.7 percent for the year. For December, Ford was up 2 percent and GM up 5 percent.
GM executives said the company has the oldest model lineup in the industry, yet it still posted a sales increase and commanded high prices for cars and trucks. The company plans to refurbish 70 percent of its North American models in the next 18 months and expects to boost sales this year.
North American President Mark Reuss said the company won't give away cars and trucks with discounts like it has in the past, especially in the midst of its biggest product update ever.
"Give us 18 months and you're going to see the whole portfolio turned," Reuss said.
Even though the congressional deal to avoid the fiscal cliff deal raised tax rates on the wealthiest Americans, Ford said it doesn't see a huge impact on auto sales.
Its chief economist, Ellen Hughes-Cromwick, said only 2 percent of new-vehicle buyers have income in that upper tax bracket, and they tend to purchase even if there is a change in after-tax income.
She said Ford is more concerned about an increase in the payroll tax, which is scheduled to climb to 6.2 percent this year from 4.2 percent in 2011 and 2012. That amounts to a $1,000 to $1,500 tax increase per household, she said.
"We will look at that closely because it will crimp spending in the months ahead," she said.
December featured year-end deals on GM's big pickup trucks. The company offered discounts up to $9,000 to help clear growing inventory, and it worked. GM cut its full-size pickup supply by more than 20,000 in December to about 222,000.
Overall, though, analysts said the industry eased up on promotions such as rebates and low-interest financing. Car and truck buyers paid an average of $31,228 per vehicle last month, up 1.8 percent from December 2011.
The Polk auto research firm predicted even stronger U.S. sales for 2013, forecasting 15.3 million vehicle sales as the economy continues to improve. Polk, based in Southfield, Mich., expects 43 new models to be introduced, up 50 percent from last year. New models usually boost sales.
The firm also predicts a rebound in sales of large pickups and midsize cars. All eight of the top manufacturers are introducing new vehicles, and that should bring competition and lower prices in those segments, according to Tom Libby, lead North American analyst for Polk.
But the firm's optimistic forecasts hinge on Washington reaching an agreement on government debt limits and spending cuts.


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1991-02-09 - T.T. the Bear's Place; Cambridge, MA, US
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With the seeming certainty of a federal shutdown at the stroke of midnight, there's been some polling in the past week or so aimed at divining the political fallout.
Who will be blamed?
Will it be House Republicans, with their unyielding efforts to defund and delay Obamacare, or Democrats (and President Obama) who will be viewed as unwilling to compromise?
Here's a short guide to some recent polling:
-- A survey published last week by the folks at the Pew Research Center for the People and the Press asked: "Who is more to blame if agreement is not reached?" The results: Republicans, 39 percent; Obama administration, 36 percent; both, 17 percent.
-- A CNN/ORC International poll conducted over the weekend asked much the same question and got a less favorable result for the GOP. Some 46 percent said a shutdown would be the fault of Republicans, while 36 percent said the president would be more responsible. Thirteen percent said both sides would be to blame.
-- Asked by Gallup last week whether it was more important for political leaders in Washington to stick to beliefs or compromise, Americans overwhelmingly chose "compromise" — by a margin of 53 percent to 25 percent. Since Republicans, Democrats and the president all claim to be sticking to their principles, it's not entirely clear what's to be made of the result.
Lastly, another poll published last week by Gallup could offer some additional clues. It asked whether respondents considered themselves "a supporter of the Tea Party movement, an opponent of the Tea Party movement, or neither." Supporters were at 22 percent (down 10 percentage points from three years ago), while 27 percent said they opposed the movement. Just as telling, perhaps, was that 51 percent responded that they are neither a supporter nor an opponent.
Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.


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Update at 3:40 p.m. ET. 'Tentative Agreement':
The law firm that has helped San Diego Mayor Bob Filner navigate the accusations of sexual harassment, says he and representatives of the city have "reached a tentative agreement," but declined to elaborate:
"Due to the confidential nature of mediation and settlement discussions, we are unable to comment or make statements about any of the terms," the law firm Payne & Fears said in a statement. "A meeting of the City Council is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Friday, August 23, 2013, at which time it is expected that the City Council will vote on the tentative agreement. A public announcement will be made following the vote."
Update at 2 p.m. ET. Report That Mayor Will Resign:
"San Diego Mayor Bob Filner has agreed to resign as part of a deal reached this week with city officials," the city's NBC 7 News reported just after noon ET Thursday.
Later, around 1:30 p.m. ET, the Los Angeles Times said it too had been told that Filner will step down. The Times cited "sources familiar with the negotiations."
As we said earlier, talk that the mayor would be stepping down increased Wednesday with word that he had reached a settlement with a woman who sued him for sexual harassment.
San Diego's 10News is saying that Filner is "prepared to resign from office."
NPR has not independently confirmed this latest news.
Our original post:
The news that a tentative deal has been reached to settle sexual harassment claims against San Diego Mayor Bob Filner has led the U-T San Diego to conclude that the stage has been set "for the end of his brief, scandal-plagued tenure as San Diego's 35th mayor."
As our colleagues at KPBS report, though, the shape of the deal isn't yet known:
"A proposed resolution has been reached on the third day of mediation ... but the actual contents of the proposal are still confidential. The mayor has been in talks with the City Attorney, members of City Council, and Gloria Allred — the lawyer representing the former communications officer suing the mayor and the city."
So, since no details have been released, it's not certain yet whether the Democratic mayor's resignation is part of the deal, The Associated Press says.
The mayor and his aides were seen loading boxes into an SUV on Wednesday. In previous public comments, the first-term mayor has said he does not intend to step down.
Barring leaks about the deal's specifics, all may not be known until Friday afternoon when the San Diego City Council is due to vote on the agreement.
KPBS reporter Sandhya Dirks reminded NPR Newscast listeners this morning that more than a dozen women have accused the 70-year-old Filner of sexual harassment. The lawsuit that has led to the tentative deal was brought by the mayor's former spokeswoman. KPBS has collected its coverage of the accusations against Filner here. Its package includes a "What Happened When" interactive timeline that has lots of background.
Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.


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Saturday, November 21, 2009
Pot Roast with Potatoes for Pink Saturday
Photo courtesy of Bloomfield Farms
Earlier this week, Peg at Bloomfield Farms did a feature about cattle country. As I moved through her wonderful pictures I was struck by the pink tags that were placed in the ears of the cattle once they were in feedlots. My devious mind immediately knew what I would use as my lead photo today. If I led with a tagged steer, I'd need to feature a recipe for beef. So, I made a large pot roast for dinner tonight. It will provide two additional and easy meals that will allow more time for Thanksgiving preparation next week. I bake my pot roast in a low, slow oven. This recipe can be adapted for use in a slow cooker but the texture of the meat will not be the same. I, obviously, prefer the texture of the oven roast. I prepare a rub of sorts and work it into the beef with a jaccard or fork the night before I brown and roast the meat. I was born a contrarian, so I prefer to use flatter cuts of beef for our pot roasts. My favorite cuts are a boneless shoulder or center cut pot roast. Whatever cut is used, it's important that the braising liquid not cover the meat. It should come only halfway up its sides. I use white vermouth in this recipe. You can use red or white wine. My preference for vermouth is based on the fact that it's a fortified wine and can sit for a good while without turning to vinegar. A good French vermouth guarantees there'll always be a decent cooking wine in the house. That truc originally came from Julia Child. Whenever possible, I make the pot roast 24 hours before I plan to serve it. This allows neat slices of meat to be cut before they are warmed. Here's the recipe for the pot roast which, coincidentally, makes great French dip, cheese steaks or barbecued beef.
Pot Roast with Vegetables...from the kitchen of One Perfect Bite
4 large cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1 tablespoon dried rosemary, crushed
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoons coarsely cracked black pepper
1 (3-1/2 to 4 pound) boneless shoulder or center cut chuck roast
2 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup dry white vermouth or white wine
1/2 cup condensed beef broth, undiluted
1-1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut in 2-inch pieces
1-1/2 pounds small red or Yukon gold potatoes
2 tablespoons flour
1/4 cup water
1) The night before roasting, combine garlic, rosemary, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Using a jaccard or meat fork, work the mixture into both sides of pot roast. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
2) Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. When it is hot, slowly brown roast, about 10 minutes per side. Add vermouth and beef broth and bring liquid to a simmer. Cover and transfer to oven. Cook, covered, turning roast every 30 minutes, until tender and meat fork easily slips in and out of meat, 3 1/2 to 4 hours. About an hour before end of cooking time, add carrots and potatoes to Dutch oven.
3) Transfer roast and vegetables to a serving platter. Tent with foil to keep warm. Skim fat from surface of braising liquid. Add water or stock if necessary to equal about 1-1/2 cups. Combine flour and water in a lidded jar. Shake until smooth. Add to braising liquid and simmer for about 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4) Using chef's or carving knife, cut meat against grain into 1/2-inch-thick slices. Pour about 1/2 cup sauce over meat. Serve, passing remaining sauce separately. Yield: 6 servings.
This post is being linked to:
Pink Saturday, sponsored by Beverly at How Sweet the Sound
79 comments :
- The Quintessential Magpie said...
This sounds like another winner, Mary!
I wonder what the tag is in the cow's ear. My father raised prize beef cattle, and they had silver vacination things piereced through their ears like giant earrings. I wonder if the pink tag is similar.
Happy Pink Saturday...
Sheila :-) - November 21, 2009 at 3:48 AM
- Deb in Hawaii said...
Nothing like a good pot roast--an you have made such a gorgeous serving plate of it too. It almost looks too pretty to eat.
- November 21, 2009 at 4:50 AM
- My Little Space said...
This recipe should do well with pork too. Looks so yummy good!
- November 21, 2009 at 5:54 AM
- GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...
Good Morning Mary,
Clever pink tag lead-in! Recipe looks great! I am posting a Pot Roast Post tomorrow called Sunday Dinner. It is one from my MIL and really posted for my girls with step-by-step pics.
Have a great weekend! - November 21, 2009 at 6:52 AM
- Selba said...
I like the way you decorate the pot roast with potatoes :)
Happy Pink Saturday! - November 21, 2009 at 7:24 AM
- Donna-FFW said...
This is seriously the next pot roast Id like to try, and I love how you arranged the potatoes around the meat.
- November 21, 2009 at 7:39 AM
- Schnitzel and the Trout said...
Finally, a perfect pot roast. I have never used wine in mine and I ask..why not? (smile and thanks)
- November 21, 2009 at 7:44 AM
- Ginger said...
Now I am just shaking my head. Your Pot Roast is a thing of art! The recipe sounds delicious and I am happy to learn a little about slow cooker and oven roasted. Thank you for that and have a wonderful weekend. Thank you for sharing this.
- November 21, 2009 at 8:01 AM
Love the "pink earings" of the cow. Happy PS to you.
- November 21, 2009 at 8:06 AM
- Bunny said...
Love the photo of the cow and her pink tag. I just bought a roast to make a pot roast. I will try this when the family is ready for a nice pot roast. Love your blog.
- November 21, 2009 at 8:15 AM
- Marina Capano said...
Hi! Happy pink satuday!
what a fantastic pink post, lovely
and so yummy!!!mmhhh
xoxo - November 21, 2009 at 8:20 AM
- Mary Bergfeld said...
Sheila, the tag identifies the feedlot to which the cattle belong.
- November 21, 2009 at 8:28 AM
- Tami @ Creative girl Vintage said...
Another great recipe! Thank you!
Happy Pinks today..xo Tami - November 21, 2009 at 8:42 AM
- Happily Retired Gal said...
Wow ... that sounds (and looks) delicious ;-)
Hugs and blessings, - November 21, 2009 at 9:46 AM
- NKP said...
So pretty! I love the presentation.
And the sammies you are describing are making me hungry! - November 21, 2009 at 9:53 AM
- SnoWhite said...
that looks great!
- November 21, 2009 at 10:08 AM
- George Gaston said...
Mary, nothing warms the soul like a good Pot Roast. This recipe sounds so delicious. Enjoy!
- November 21, 2009 at 10:30 AM
- Michelle said...
Mary, Your pot roast looks so elegant, I love making this meal just for that reason, you don't have to cook for a couple more meals, I'll have to arrange my a little prettier. Happy PS.
- November 21, 2009 at 10:34 AM
- Unknown said...
i was in colorado springs visiting my dear friends and met London, Meatball and ??. They belong to Teng Teng. London is a black and white and the oldest of the three. Meatball and ?? are still calves and brown like the one in your picture but they do not have tags. Perhaps they have but i was too engrossed in their lovely fur. - November 21, 2009 at 10:44 AM
- SmilingSally said...
I refuse to connect the top photo with the second. My meat comes from a grocery store, and it's in a package, wrapped in cellophane. LOL
- November 21, 2009 at 11:14 AM
- Lea Ann said...
Love the arrangement on this delicious dish. Whenever I drive by a field with cows with tags, I always say "Nice earrings"
- November 21, 2009 at 11:17 AM
- Charmingdesigns said...
What a delicious blog! Your header is delightful! I'm on my way to check out what I've been missing!
- November 21, 2009 at 11:20 AM
- Martha said...
Mary, there is a bit of a chill in the air -- pot roast sound wonderful -- it was one of our winter Sunday dinners growing up!
- November 21, 2009 at 11:58 AM
- bj said...
This looks and sounds delicious. I like both oven and crock pot roasts but prefer the oven.
Happiest Pink...
xo bj - November 21, 2009 at 11:59 AM
- Karen said...
What a beautiful presentation of your pot roast. I love the pink in the picture!
- November 21, 2009 at 12:36 PM
Oh, oh, oh. Just now seeing your blog. I'm a printing recipes right now. Such a wonderful blog you have.
- November 21, 2009 at 12:54 PM
- Nancy said...
Hmm...for some reason I always leave here hungry! Happy Pink Saturday :) Nancy
- November 21, 2009 at 1:00 PM
- Barbara said...
Love your cow photo! And the pink earring.
I think pot roast is better the second day too--also true with stews.
Great presentation, Mary! It looks divine. - November 21, 2009 at 1:04 PM
- Betty said...
We make our pot roast almost the same Mary except I have never used vermouth. I will have to try your recipe to see what flavor the vermouth adds to it. Thanks for sharing your recipe and happy Pink Saturday!
- November 21, 2009 at 1:04 PM
- Mollye said...
Hmmmmmmmmmmm I can smell it way down here Mary. Uhm... that is to say the roast beef dish not the one on the hoof! Happy Pink Saturday, Mollye
- November 21, 2009 at 1:09 PM
- My name is Riet said...
This sounds like a wonderful dish. Wow, I always get hungry when I read your recipies Mary and I just had dinner.:))
Happy pink Saturday and thank you for your visit - November 21, 2009 at 1:23 PM
- CC said...
Again Mary,You have made me so hungry..as always,your food and presentation is just gorgeous. Your pictures and service is just so pretty.. Happy Pinks..and have a wonderous Thanksgiving filled with all those you love.
- November 21, 2009 at 1:49 PM
- claudie said...
Feedlot?? Cool I didn't know that.
I like the presentation, it looks delish Mary.
Happy PS
Love Claudie
xoxoxo - November 21, 2009 at 2:09 PM
- Nancy said...
Happy Pink Saturday!
Your comment arrived by divine intervention I am sure. Just as I was about to leave for my grocery shopping for the week, I checked here one more time. As is my usual routine, if I have not stopped in here already this week, I catch up! We adore,crave, etc. Portuguese kale soup. Immediately upon seeing the recipe to include the leftover turkey, I quickly typed kale and sausage into my iPhone list. I love your recipes and I love the technology that keeps me updated here and at the store!
Thank you for the recipe! Your work is much appreciated in our home. - November 21, 2009 at 2:27 PM
- Sandi@ Rose Chintz Cottage said...
Good thinking, Mary! Your recipe sounds delicious! Thanks for sharing and Happy Pink Saturday.
Sandi - November 21, 2009 at 2:55 PM
- Lyndas recipe box said...
A beautiful arrangement for the roast and potatoes, Mary. I prefer the oven, too for cooking, although I do use the crockpot once in a while for it.
I like your tip of using a herb rub the day before you roast it- I hadn't thought of that. Thanks! - November 21, 2009 at 2:59 PM
- Carol at Serendipity said...
Very pretty presentation. I like the oven as well and the tip about the vermouth makes a lot of sense!
Happy Pink Saturday! - November 21, 2009 at 3:13 PM
- Catharina Maria said...
Oh the cow with her pink earring !
delicious receipt !
love Rini the Netherlands - November 21, 2009 at 3:49 PM
- Teacup Mosaics said...
That is the most beautiful pot roast I have ever seen, after all the turkey I think I will be trying it. Pretty Pink earred steer too!
- November 21, 2009 at 4:18 PM
- caren said...
Oh, Yum!!! I make pot roast with potatoes and carrots but I'm sure it's not as good as yours. I will try your recipe instead. Happy Pink Saturday!
- November 21, 2009 at 4:20 PM
- Tara said...
It looks and sounds delicious, but I do feel sorry for that poor cow. Even if she got a pink tag in her ear! Happy Pink Saturday and have a wonderful weekend!
- November 21, 2009 at 4:26 PM
- Betzie said...
Oh my that cow was a eye catcher! Poor thing...LOL
Would you please come cook for me? I have no idea what to make for dinner and too late to make your delectable pot roast!!!! YUM! - November 21, 2009 at 4:43 PM
- LemonyRenee' said...
Oh, Mary. How can I enjoy pot roast with those big brown eyes looking at me??? I know, I'm a city kid.
The recipe looks delicious. - November 21, 2009 at 4:48 PM
- That shabby Pink Girl said...
Hi Mary
I always love your Blog, so many pretty things and the yummy food, I write down your recipes and try them~~so delicious~thanks so much for sharing with us.
see you next time, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
marian elizabeth - November 21, 2009 at 4:53 PM
- ~*~Magpie's Nest said...
~*Happy Pink Saturday*~ and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!!!
- November 21, 2009 at 4:54 PM
- Rostrose said...
Hmmm, that really looks delicious! Happy Pink Saturday & Hugs, Traude
- November 21, 2009 at 5:08 PM
- Ange said...
YUM! The pink tag is pretty but my I'm looking forward to trying your pot roast recipe! Merci for coming and visiting my blog and here's to more pink tags!
- November 21, 2009 at 5:32 PM
- Char said...
Oh my Mary, after seeing the sweet face on that cow, I am not eating potroast today. Sorry.......Maybe next week, Happy Pink Saturday sweetie, Char
- November 21, 2009 at 5:44 PM
- Pat@Back Porch Musings said...
Looks delicious, Mary.
We raised beef cattle, up until about 7 years ago. - November 21, 2009 at 5:47 PM
- vickie said...
Happy Pink Saturday! Quite a cute pink Saturday picture! The stew recipe looks wonderful. Thanks for sharing!
- November 21, 2009 at 6:01 PM
- Pam said...
The roast sounds wonderful. My mouth is watering just reading the recipe. Happy Pink Saturday and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
- November 21, 2009 at 6:15 PM
- ForgedinPaper said...
All our cattle must be tagged so thepicture made me smile. I wanted to do a roast for Boxing day so that recipe looks fab. I'm going to have a go at that. Thanks and Happy Pink Saturday.
- November 21, 2009 at 6:22 PM
- Grace said...
what a great recipe thank you for sharing ...love the pink tag. Happy Pink Saturday!
- November 21, 2009 at 6:29 PM
- LV said...
You are so good at cooking and making us all hungry. As always, I would like to have anything you prepare. This would sure taste good after too much turkey.
- November 21, 2009 at 8:15 PM
- D.E. said...
oh i'm going to follow your blog now just love it. Happy pink and thanks for the comment. D.E
- November 21, 2009 at 8:15 PM
- Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...
At least the cows are into pink too! What a great post.
Thanks for commenting on mine as well.
Happy Pink Saturday. - November 21, 2009 at 8:18 PM
- Elena said...
I should never visit your blog on an empty stomach - especially as you alway have such mouth-watering, delicious looking recipes ... sigh, wish I could 'cook'.
Happy ps - have a great week.
ciao for now,
Elena :)
ps. I think the cow looks rather cute with a pink tag :) - November 21, 2009 at 8:36 PM
- Mimi said...
Pot roast and potatoes are the perfect comfort foods for a chilly night.
Mimi - November 21, 2009 at 9:36 PM
- xinex said...
This looks so pretty and so good too, Mary!...Christine
- November 21, 2009 at 9:39 PM
- Unknown said...
NO wonder the poor moo looks so sad. She can see what's in store for her with that delicious roast. Poor thing :-)
- November 21, 2009 at 10:03 PM
- Dawn said...
Yummy! HPS!
- November 21, 2009 at 10:12 PM
- Terri said...
Looks and Sounds great! Hope you had a great pink Saturday!
- November 21, 2009 at 10:36 PM
- Martha's Favorites said...
Mary: Can you send me some of that? Have a blessed week. Martha
- November 21, 2009 at 11:41 PM
- sherri@lavenderfields said...
Mmmm! Now I'm feeling like a nice Sunday Night dinner! Sounds good with a little horseradish!! Have a great Pink Saturday, and a wonderful week! Sherri : )
- November 22, 2009 at 12:34 AM
- Katy ~ said...
This pot roast sounds like perfection! For so long I've needed The Recipe. I think this may be it!
- November 22, 2009 at 6:35 AM
- Unknown said...
Happy Pink Saturday!
Thanks for visiting my post and for the YUMMY Pot Roast recipe. It happened to be my FAV way to eat beef.
HPS...Lorena - November 22, 2009 at 8:51 AM
- Peg said...
Pa will be so happy you are encouraging people to eat beef. Great idea for Pink Saturday. Delicious sounding recipes too!
To answer the ear tag question, there are several thousand cattle in a feed lot. Each one is very important to his owner. Occasionally, one might escape from a pen and steers are very closed-mouthed about where they came from. Those tags help them return to their rightful owner. Each pen is identified with the same color... Pa's bunch got stuck with the hot pink tags. The guys were not too happy with the color choice. - November 22, 2009 at 9:05 AM
- Lisa said...
Yummy!!! I love pot roast!
Happy Pink Saturday!
Hugs, Lisa - November 22, 2009 at 10:20 AM
- Lori said...
Arent you clever, it looks like a crown.
- November 22, 2009 at 10:40 AM
- Audax said...
What a beautiful potroast and so uncommon here in Australia. The final dish sounds so delicious I might even try it later when the hot weather abates. Wonderful photos. Cheers from Audax in Australia.
- November 22, 2009 at 10:58 AM
- Christi @ A Southern Life said...
Cute idea for Pink Saturday. I have a hard time looking in the eyes of what I am about to eat! Love pot roast and it is a great idea to make it as a time saver while you prepare for Thanksgiving.
Christi @ A Southern Life - November 22, 2009 at 11:05 AM
- dana said...
Ohhhh, I hope that Pink Tag doesn't mean that cow is "NEXT"! :)
Yummmmmm, pot roast! I haven't fixed that delicious meal for over 7 years....that's when my hubs had a heart attack! We do have a steak on occasion, but not pot roast....and I can tell you that I MISS IT!
Your blog is wonderful!! Thanks for all of your interesting and delicious shares!
Oh, and I hope you had a terrific Pink Sat...and an awesome Thanksgiving! Dana - November 22, 2009 at 11:07 AM
- Julie said...
Hi Mary, This looks so yummy...Happy Pink Satrurday...Happy Thanks Giving... Do hope you will stop over for a visit...
Julie - November 22, 2009 at 12:17 PM
Happy Pink Saturday. Pot Roast.....I think is every guy's favorite meal....I know it is for my husband. And if I serve it with real home made yeast rolls and real butter....I can pretty near ask for anything I want. :)
- November 22, 2009 at 12:45 PM
how incredible is that photo lovley presentation hope you have a fab pink weel:)
- November 22, 2009 at 5:13 PM
- Beverly said...
Mary, I love your clever use of the photo. I am certain that cow was thrilled to have received a pink tag.
Your pot roast looks and sounds delicious. I like that you use the vermouth, and I will try that next time. I like mine cooked in a slow oven, too. - November 22, 2009 at 6:54 PM
- free online adventure games said...
Ooh I love pot roast, especially when the fork slips easily in and out of the meat and that melt-in-the-mouth feeling when eating it. I'd love to really try this recipe.
- November 22, 2009 at 9:41 PM
- Maria Berg said...
I will think about that - A good French vermouth guarantees there'll always be a decent cooking wine in the house.
MB - November 23, 2009 at 4:30 PM
Wow, this looks fantastic! Not sure if I agree about the vermouth though. It may work with this recipe, but it can't work for everything (you use different spices in each recipe, so why not different wines?).
Ever heard of this: www.academiewines.com? They blend nice wines for gourmet cooking - real wines, not your standard "cooking wine". Bottles are smaller too (which I like!) and you can drink while you cook (which I really like!).
Just thought I'd share! Thanks for the recipe and I love the photography! (wait...the beef in the recipe isn't from the cow in the picture, is it??) - November 23, 2009 at 7:42 PM


text:
Unless you're planning to make an all-cash purchase (in which case you'll be a very popular buyer!), you're going to have to secure a mortgage. Though the process can be complex and daunting, it helps to understand what to expect and to take the time up front to really sit down and know what you want and need from your lender. This section is devoted to helping you reach both those aims.
In exchange for your mortgage, you will pledge your home as security for repayment of your loan. The lender agrees to hold the title to your property until you have paid back your loan plus interest. A mortgage loan is composed of two major components: principal and interest.
Principal is the actual amount of money you borrow. If you borrow $150,000, your mortgage principal is $150,000.
Interest is what you pay for the use of the money you borrow. How much you pay depends on a number of factors, including the interest rate, the type of loan and other factors, which are outlined in this guide. Interest can be deducted from your taxes, making it one of the most attractive practical benefits of home ownership. Your tax advisor will be able to provide more details about the tax savings benefits.
Amortization refers to the way in which the balance of principal versus interest changes over time. During the first few years of your mortgage (typically for the first 2 to 3 years of a 30-year loan) most of your payments will be applied toward interest. During the final years of your loan, your payments will be applied almost exclusively to the remaining principal. This process is called amortization.
How should I choose a lender?
Carefully! Look for financial stability and a reputation for customer satisfaction. Select a company that gives helpful advice and that makes you feel comfortable. It is best to select a lender that has the authority to approve and process your loan locally, so you can more easily monitor the status of your application and ask questions. Plus, it helps when the lender knows about local home values and conditions. Do research -- ask your agent, family and friends for recommendations.
What is the best way to compare loan terms between lenders?
Speak with companies by phone, in person, or search the Internet. In addition to your research, I can provide a variety of proven lender and mortgage options. While competitive rates are important, remember that most lenders get their money from the same sources and therefore essentially have the same rates. As a result, the decision often comes down to other factors.
The Interest Rate
Interest Rates are most important when you lock a loan. What is important is that you have a loan program that fits your particular financial situation and needs at the time you purchase your home. Remember that each 1/4 point (0.25%) may not have as much impact as you think.
There are four main sources from which you can obtain a home loan:
Savings and loan associations
Commercial banks
Mortgage bankers
Mortgage brokers
Savings and loan associations (S & Ls)
Historically, Savings and Loan organizations have concentrated on home loans. However, with deregulation, the U.S. government has opened the door for S & Ls to provide checking accounts, savings accounts, personal and business loans, etc. Nevertheless, their primary lending focus still is on home loans.
Commercial banks
The largest and most diverse of all finance institutions, commercial banks offer a wide variety of services including savings accounts, investments, charge cards, as well as commercial, personal, residential and business loans, among others.
Mortgage bankers
Mortgage bankers typically use their own money to fund mortgages; however, they ultimately sell the loans to another entity such as a bank, a savings and loan, pension or retirement funds, private investors or government agencies such as FNMA ("Fannie Mae") or GNMA ("Ginnie Mae"), which purchase residential mortgages. When mortgage bankers sell a block of mortgages, they often will continue to service the loan and will be responsible for the collection of your payments. The mortgage banker is paid a small percentage of the interest (usually 1/4 % to 1/2 %) for this servicing agreement.
Mortgage brokers
Unlike mortgage bankers, mortgage brokers do not loan their own money. Mortgage brokers will arrange financing for a borrower from a lender, which could be a bank, savings and loan, a private individual or a credit union or pension fund. As the liaison between borrowers and lenders, they are paid a commission or a fee, which is paid by the borrower, the seller or even the lender.
While there seem to be hundreds of different mortgages available, they all fall into a few basic categories. Some may fit your needs well, while other programs may be unwise or unattainable. It's important to realize that the best product depends on where you are in your life. The best choice is the loan program that best fits your needs at the time you purchase a home.
In recent years, lenders have developed a greater variety of loan programs, mainly because they have found that homebuyers have a variety of different needs. First Time buyers, families "moving up" into larger homes as they need more space, or moving into smaller homes after children have gone on to start their own families; all have different needs. There are so many different individual loan programs available that to compare them all would be impossible. The following provides brief descriptions of the most common categories of mortgage loans.
Fixed Rate Mortgages
Fixed-rate mortgages are the most popular type of mortgage. With this mortgage, the interest rate will remain the same for the entire term of the loan. Typically, the longer the term of the mortgage, the more interest is paid over the life of the loan.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages
Adjustable rate mortgages all have certain similar features. They have an adjustment period, an index, a margin, and a rate cap. The adjustment period is simply how often the rate changes. Some change monthly, some change every six months, and some only adjust once a year. An Adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a mortgage in which the interest changes periodically according to corresponding fluctuations in an index. All ARMs are tied to indexes. Indexes are simply an easily monitored interest rate that moves up and down over time. Adjustable rate mortgages vary and are tied to different indexes.
This is a "traditional" mortgage, not directly insured by the Federal Government. Most conventional loans under $300,700 are administered through Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac (private corporations but regulated by the government). Loans greater than this amount are called "jumbo loans" and are funded by the private investment market.
These loans are insured by (but not funded by) the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) a division of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and designed for, in general, low- to middle-income borrowers and many first time buyers. There are, however, limits to the maximum loan amount which will vary from county to county. FHA loans have somewhat more relaxed qualifying standards and ratios than conventional loans and have the availability of both 15 and 30 year fixed as well as 1 year adjustable mortgages.
For those qualified by military service, the Veteran's Administration (VA) insures (but does not fund) 15 and 30 year fixed as well as 1 year adjustable mortgages with lower down payment requirements and somewhat more lenient qualifying ratios.
No/Low Down Payment Mortgages
Sometimes having enough funds for the down payment and closing costs as required by a basic fixed-rate mortgage is not achievable. There is an array of no and low down payment mortgages. These types of loans are designed for homebuyers' varying needs and take into account the many other factors that qualify the financial condition of the borrower. Some loans are designed for buyers with good credit histories, some offer more flexible qualifying requirements and may be helpful for limited incomes, and others balance a low down payment with a higher interest rate.
Negative Amortization
Some adjustable rate mortgages allow the interest rate to fluctuate independently of a required minimum payment. If a borrower makes the minimum payment it may not cover all of the interest that would normally be due at the current interest rate. In essence, the borrower is deferring the interest payment, which is why this plan is called "deferred interest." The deferred interest is added to the balance of the loan and the loan balance grows larger instead of smaller, which is called negative amortization.
Hybrid Mortgage
Mortgage hybrids are a cross between a fixed rate and an adjustable-rate mortgage. They generally have fixed rates for the first three, five, seven or ten years and then they convert to adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) for the remainder of the loan term. With hybrid loans the fixed rate is established up front. Once the fixed-rate portion of the loan ends, the mortgage then behaves like an ARM with rate changes and monthly payments moving up and down each year as interest levels change. The attractiveness of these types of loans is that a borrower can sometimes find a 5/1 ARM rate at up to a full percentage point below a comparable fixed rate loan, and for several years the homeowner can benefit from a lower rate. Generally, the shorter the fixed-rate period, the better the up-front discount, the longer the fixed-rate period, the smaller the discount when compared to 30-year financing.
How do I choose the best loan program for me?
Your personal situation will determine the best kind of loan for you.
Do you expect your finances to change over the next few years?
Are you planning to live in this home for a long period of time?
Are you comfortable with the idea of a changing mortgage payment amount?
Do you wish to be free of mortgage debt as your children approach college age or as you prepare for retirement?
Your lender can help you use your answers to questions such as these to decide which loan best fits your needs. The remainder of this article will outline for you why these questions – and the answers you provide to them – are a crucial part of your loan search.
How large of a down payment do I need?
There are mortgages now available that only require a down payment of 5% or less. But, generally speaking, the larger the down payment, the less you have to borrow, and the more equity you'll have. Mortgages with less than a 20% down payment generally require a private mortgage insurance policy (PMI), which can be expensive.
Nevertheless, PMI is a fact of life for many homeowners. Even if you begin your mortgage with PMI, with time and appreciation, you often can reach 20 percent equity – at which time you can have the PMI removed. Often, removing PMI is just a matter of asking the lender, paying for an appraisal, paying a fee to the lender (approximately $300 - $500) and providing the necessary paperwork.
What does the interest rate really mean to me?
A lower interest rate allows you to borrow more money than a high rate with the same monthly payment. Interest rates fluctuate from day-to-day, so ask lenders if they offer a rate "lock-in," which guarantees a specific interest rate for a certain period of time.
Remember that a lender must disclose to you the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which shows the cost of a mortgage in terms of an annual interest rate. Because it includes the cost of points, mortgage insurance and other fees, the APR generally will be higher. It will provide you with a good estimate of the actual cost of the loan.
What happens if interest rates drop after I finalize my fixed-rate loan?
If rates drop more than two percentage points or so and you plan to be in your home for the next 18 months, you may want to consider refinancing. However, since refinancing may require you to pay many of the same fees paid at the original closing, plus origination and application fees, you should make this decision carefully.
What are discount points?
Discount points (or just plain "points," as they are frequently called) allow you to lower your interest rate by paying prepaid interest up front. Each point equals 1% of the loan amount, and generally, each point paid on a 30-year mortgage will reduce the interest rate by 1/8 (or.125) of a percentage point. Sometimes lenders will provide you with the opportunity for a "buy down" – which literally offers you a chance to buy down the cost of the loan by paying more points up front.
When you shop for a loan, ask lenders for an interest rate with no points. Then, ask them how much the rate decreases with each point paid. Discount points are smart if you plan to stay in a home for some time since they can lower your monthly loan payment. Points are tax deductible when you purchase a home and you may be able to negotiate for the seller to pay some of them.
What's considered a reasonable loan fee?
In most cases, loan fees should not exceed 5 percent of the loan amount, unless you are paying for a lower interest rate. However, there may be exceptions. I can help you evaluate loan fees and to understand exactly how much the entire loan will cost. It's important to know all your loan costs up front.
Being prepared with the necessary documentation will expedite the mortgage loan process. Here's a checklist, so you don't forget what you'll need to efficiently move the loan process along:
Real Estate Contracts
____ Purchase Agreement (for the purchase of your new home).
____ Sales contract (if you are selling a home).
Residence History
____ Past 24 months of residence with complete addresses.
____ Length of time you lived at each address.
____ Name of landlord and his/her address (if currently renting).
Employment History
____ All original pay stubs for past 30 day period.
____ Employers for the past two years with complete addresses.
____ Dates of employment for each job.
____ W2s for most recent two years.
____ Most recent tax returns (with all schedules) for past two years.
____ If there have been any gaps in employment, prepared explanations.
Financial History
____ Copies of most recent monthly statements for all loans and credit card balances.
____ Copies of most recent three months' bank statements for all accounts, stock brokerages, mutual funds, IRAs, Pensions, etc.
____ If you are self employed or received a 1099, your most recent tax returns for the past two years with all schedules and a year-to-date profit and loss statement and balance sheet.
____ If you own 25% or more of a corporation, the most recent corporate tax returns for the past two years with all the schedules and a year-to-date profit and loss statement and a balance sheet.
Current Real Estate
____ Property addresses.
____ Estimated market values of property.
____ Amount of monthly payment and outstanding loan balances (bring copy of most recent loan statement).
____ If you own rental property, your most recent tax returns for the past two years with all schedules and a current agreement.
Personal Property
____ Net cash value of your life insurance.
____ Year, make and value of all vehicles.
____ Value of your furniture and personal property.
Special Situations
Bring your federal tax forms for the past two years, along with a profit and loss statement.
Separated or divorced
Bring a copy of your divorce decree and separation agreement, plus documentation of any alimony or child support payments you are required to make. If you are receiving alimony or child support and want it to be considered as income, you'll need proof of this income such as the court clerk's history of payments or cancelled checks for the past 12 months.
Public Assistance
Including pension, disability, Social Security or any other form of public assistance with your income. Bring a copy of an award certificate or a check from the issuing agency.
If you have had a bankruptcy, a foreclosure or judgments against you over the past seven years, bring information on the proceedings. Information on bankruptcies should include a copy of the bankruptcy discharge and schedule of both debts and assets. Judgments against you should include an attorney's letter that discusses the outcome of the proceedings.
Applying for a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) loan
Bring your DD214 form (discharge) papers or your certificate of eligibility.
When your loan is submitted for underwriting, it goes directly into the hands of an underwriter whose job is to determine your "creditworthiness" or your ability to repay the loan. An underwriter takes into consideration the following aspects when deciding whether or not to approve your loan:
Your work history
A stable history of employment in the same line of work is considered ideal. Job-hopping is not. However, if you have switched jobs within the same line of work for advancement in your field, it should not be a problem.
Your income
In looking at your ability to repay the loan, your job stability and gross income (in relation to your expenses) are critical. Most income must be verified as having been received for at least two years to be used for qualifying purposes.
Your credit history
Via your credit report, the underwriter looks at your past payment history. A consistent pattern of late payments, collections, etc., obviously is not looked upon favorably – and you will be asked to explain about your bad credit conditions. Bankruptcies generally must be discharged for at least two years, the reason explained, and you generally must reestablish credit to be considered.
Your assets
The underwriter wants to see your net worth, determined as: the money you have available for a down payment, closing costs, cash reserves (money left over after closing of escrow to cover 2-3 months mortgage payments) and other liquid assets. The underwriter also will want to see the "source of funds" - where the money for the down payment and closing costs is coming from. Don't move money around (pay off bills, receive a gift, etc.) without first consulting your loan officer about the best way to do it, since it may affect the underwriter's view of your loan.
Your debts
The underwriter will be concerned with the amount of debt you have because it affects your qualification and ability to repay the loan. Excessive use of credit may not be looked upon favorably.
The property
Because the property is the lender's collateral for the loan, the value, marketability and condition of the property are extremely important. The underwriter looks at the appraisal for this information, and generally verifies that the appraisal and the purchase price are in the same ballpark.
Your monthly mortgage payment is made up of several components. This housing expense is commonly referred to as "PITI" or principal, interest, taxes and insurance. PMI (see below) and homeowner's association dues may also make up a portion of your total payment.
The original balance of money loaned, excluding interest. Also, the remaining balance of a loan, excluding interest. Interest is calculated based on the principal.
The charge, in dollars, for the use (loan) of the money.
The county assessor determines the property tax based on the value of your home. There are two tax installments due each year. The first installment is due November 1st and is delinquent after December 10th. The second installment is due February 1st and is delinquent after April 10th.
Taxes may be impounded, depending on the amount of your down payment. (A down payment of less than 20% usually requires an impound account).
An impound account, set up by the lender, is a trust account to which a portion of the monthly payment is credited so that funds will be available for the payment of taxes and insurance when they're due. This way, the lender actually pays your tax bill for you. (Supplemental taxes usually are still the responsibility of the homeowner.)
Hazard Insurance
An insurance policy pays for the loss of a home from certain hazards, including fire. You obtain homeowner's insurance from your own insurance agent. The standard policy pays replacement costs, minus depreciation based on actual cash value. Talk to your insurance agent about the different types of insurance available. Hazard insurance expense may also be impounded in the trust account with taxes.
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)
Depending on the amount of your down payment, you may be required to have PMI. A down payment of less than 20% usually requires PMI. Because loans with small down payments involve substantially more risk for the lender, they need protection in case the loan goes into foreclosure. Mortgage insurance helps cover the lender's loss in the event of a foreclosure. Because of this insurance, lenders are able to offer loans with lower down payments.
PMI premiums are collected monthly as a part of your mortgage payment. The cost of PMI varies with the amount of your down payment. Can you pay off your loan ahead of schedule? Yes. By sending in extra money each month or making an extra payment at the end of the year, you can accelerate the process of paying off the loan. When you send extra money, be sure to indicate that the excess payment is to be applied to the principal. Most lenders allow loan prepayment, though you may have to pay a prepayment penalty to do so. Ask your lender for details.
In addition to the right to view your credit report and know your FICO score, you also are protected by RESPA, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act passed by Congress. RESPA requires your lender to provide you with a "Good Faith Estimate of Settlement Costs" early in the loan process. Be aware, however, that the amounts contained are only estimates. Keep your Good Faith Estimate so you can compare it with the final settlement costs, and ask the lender questions about any changes.
Through a Servicing Disclosure Statement, which will be given to you by your lender, RESPA also requires your lender to tell you if it expects someone else to be servicing your loan. Your lender will have three days from the time you apply for the loan to let you know about this.
RESPA regulations also require all parties involved in your transaction to disclose affiliated business arrangements. If anyone involved in your transaction (your lender, agent or title officer, for example), refers you to another service provider (including lenders, title officers, inspectors, etc.), the "Servicing Disclosure Statement" indicates that you generally are not required to use these providers, and are free to shop for other affiliates.
HUD-1 Settlement Statement
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development also provides protection via the HUD-1 Settlement Statement. One business day before closing, you have the right to inspect this statement, which itemizes the services provided to you and the accompanying fees charged. Be sure to call the settlement agent if you wish to inspect this form. The form generally must be delivered or mailed to you at or before the settlement.
Escrow Account Operation and Disclosures
Your lender may require you to establish an escrow or impound account to insure that your taxes and insurance premiums are paid on time. You probably will have to pay an initial amount at the settlement to start the account and an additional amount with each month's regular payment. Your payments may include a "cushion" or extra amount to ensure that the lender has enough money to make the payments when due. RESPA limits the amount of the cushion to a maximum of 2 months of escrow payments.
At closing or within the next 45 days, the person servicing your loan must give you an initial escrow account statement. That form will show all of the payments which will be expected to be deposited into
the escrow account, and all of the disbursements that are expected to be made from the escrow account during the year ahead. Your lender or servicer will review the escrow account annually and send you a disclosure each year, which shows the prior year's activity and any adjustments necessary in the escrow payments that you will make in the forthcoming year.
For more information on RESPA
Visit the web page at http://www.realtor.org or call (800) 217-6970 for a local counseling referral.
There are several Federal laws, which provide you with protection during the processing of
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text:
One-of-a-kind vintage rug, hand-knotted in Isparta, Turkey
Dimensions: 9'3" x 12'3" (283 cm x 374 cm)
Kalender has been professionally cleaned; age-related wear and natural inconsistencies are inherent in these unique, handcrafted vintage rugs
Rug Type:
Hand-knotted Rugs
Sturdy pile rugs meticulously woven by hand, with individually hand-tied knots, so no two are exactly alike
Typically between 20-100 years old
Main Color:
- Brown
- A central medallion anchors the motif to a center focal point from which the design blooms out and is balanced by complementary design elements
- Classic and timeless Persian motifs feature intricate patterns and floral designs, all framed by a border
- A crosshatched fade from gentle wear over time produces a soft, distressed look, muting the original color palette
Isparta of southwest Turkey is considered to be one of the major rug production centers in the entire country. Rugs from this area typically feature traditional Turkish motifs and floral designs.
Material DetailsWool is the most widely used fiber in Turkish rug design. Not only is it plentiful in supply, it's durable, long-lasting, and soft—so it's super comfy to walk and relax on. This wool pile is knotted onto a cotton foundation, another popular choice in rug design. The cotton used is rigid, strong, and provides a sturdy foundation that's designed to last a lifetime—or ten.
- We recommend that you regularly vacuum your rug to remove dirt and grime. Depending on how heavily your rug is used, just once or twice a month is adequate. Too much vacuuming can wear down the knots and fibers more quickly. If you have a suction attachment on your vacuum cleaner, use that instead of a rotary vacuum.
- Every few months, you'll also want to flip your rug over and vacuum the back to get the grit out of the foundation of the rug. It also helps to rotate your rug once a year to ensure even wear over time.
- Every 3-5 years, we recommend getting your rug professionally hand-washed. Please do not take it to get steam or dry cleaned—this will almost certainly damage the rug! Hand-washing requires the use of a pH-balanced shampoo, worked into the rug by hand with a soft-bristled brush, before being rinsed thoroughly. This process should be repeated a few times.
- In case of spills:
- If the spill is organic and non-oily (e.g., wine), use a paper towel or cloth to blot the liquid. Add some clean water sparingly to the spot to dilute the stain (or wet a paper towel or cloth) and blot. Repeat this process until the stain is removed.
- If the stain is persistent, resist the urge to scrub. Scrubbing can damage the wool fibers and more easily allow the stain to penetrate. You may try using a mild detergent, such as very diluted dishwashing soap, following the same blot-and-rinse procedure.
- If the spill is a denser, more oily liquid, try first to scoop what you can from the surface using a spoon or perhaps some heavier paper, and then do the blot-and-rinse. If the spill is significant, non-organic and/or composed of chemical substances, or the above methods don't work, we suggest getting the rug professionally hand-washed as soon as possible.
- For rugs with deeply saturated color palettes, be sure to spot-clean them in an area that can be hosed down immediately after, as some color bleeding may occur.
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Elegy, Redux
WonderBaby came into this world with her eyes wide open, silent but for a few obligatory shouts. There had been complications, so they whisked her away for a moment, but within a very few minutes she was pressed against my chest, a tiny, fierce life-force, clutching, grasping, straining for the breast.
She found it. Within minutes of having burst out of me in a gush of pain, she was latched to my breast, sucking hungrily, pulling from me what she needed. Eyes wide open.
This was our start. Skin from skin, skin to skin, tiny new body pressed to big strong body, tiny mouth, little bird mouth, clasped to swollen nipple.
I remember thinking, her skin is my skin, the very same skin, the very same flesh, where does my breast stop and her cheek begin?
With every tug and every pulse of every suckle my heart stretched. Is it really possible that we can love so much? So deeply? So primally?
And that such love can burn through pain?
Because, the pain. She ravaged me. She pulled at the breast, tore at my tender skin. She made me bleed. It made me cry. For days, when she nursed, I cried.
But we soldiered on. One day at time, Husband said. And: It's okay to stop.
I didn't stop. It got better, slowly. Finally, one day, it was easy. I rejoiced at the easy: she bent her head to the breast and suckled hungrily, suckled lustily, and it didn't hurt. I cradled her in my arms as she drank and it felt good. Easy. It was working. We were working.
I held my child to my breast and nourished her.
I held my child to my breast and I nourished her, night and day and day and night, and when she reached for me my heart sang because I could do this. I could do this for her. Nourish her.
I nourished her for months. Eight months. Eight months and 16 days. Give or take a day. Sometimes it was tiring. It was tiring. Often it was easy: pop out the boob and baby drinks. No fuss, no muss. But sometimes it pressed upon me, the weight of the thing, the need for me and only me. Me and only me at bedtime, at waking. The need for me, or, rather, my breast. Only me.
We knew that I was going to go away for a few days. I tried to express breastmilk; there was never enough. Hours I spent, dutifully pumping, hoping to store enough to sustain her in my absence. Every trickle of milk was a victory, and a failure. Liquid gold, captured in an Avent bottle. But not enough, never enough.
The coupons for formula were unearthed from the bottom of the pile of maternity propoganda distributed by well-meaning public-health nurses and prenatal class instructors and baby store salesclerks. The formula was purchased, and mixed, and offered to baby. She refused, refused, refused, refused, wavered, wavered, sampled, flirted, drank, welcomed.
And then I was gone. She took her bottles. I fought engorgement, she took her bottles. I struggled, she took her bottles, she thrived. And when I returned, it was over.
She came to me, she lunged at the breast, out of habit, and suckled, briefly.
And then she turned away.
She hasn't been back.
I'm free. Freedom's lovely, in its way.
But I miss it, a little. I miss her.
I clutch her a little more tightly every morning, and every night. And then I pass her to her Da and he clutches her tightly, and she opens her mouth, a little bird, and her cheek presses against his arm and they curl into each other, skin to skin...
It's good. It's all good.
(Dammit but I cried like a baby re-reading this. It stays with you. It always does. It is always, always, the sweetest loss, and you can always taste it.)
Despite swearing to myself that I would never do a re-post, I am re-posting this particular piece from last year, because a) it describes what was, for me, one of the most challenging and rewarding and amazing parts of motherhood, and I want to share that experience again, now, as mothers everywhere fight to make the point that breastfeeding is many things, but it is not obscene, and b) I am too sick to write anything original, and you don't really want to hear me bitch about vomit, again.
Our right and our freedom to do this thing - to love our children, to nourish our children - openly, without shame, and without fear of sanction, is something worth fighting for, hard. Join the League of Maternal Justice in their effort to celebrate the superpowers of mothers everywhere - and join in the Great Virtual Breast Fest by sending LMJ your breastfeeding pics or video, or by writing about it on your blog. Get your pics to us by tomorrow, and we'll include them in a breastacular montage video. Then, post pics or vid or words on October 10th at 10am and we'll rock the boobies. Because we can, and we must.


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Raw-To-The-Core Downhome blues, straight from the streets of 1940s Detroit - Truly sensation-al! By Tony Rounce No matter how much new information continues to come to light about Post-WW II blues, there are some things - and some artists - that seem destined to remain terminally obscure.
It's now been 55 years since Detroit music entrepreneur Bernard Besman recorded the acoustic down-home blues of Sylvester Cotton and Andrew Dunham in the wake of his massive success, via Jules and Saul Bihari's Modern Records, with the early productions of John Lee Hooker. Cotton and Dunham were acolytes, and probably even friends, of John Lee. Both men also recorded in a style not too far removed from Hooker's. But unlike the repertoire of their noted associate, who went on to a worldwide fame that needs no further documentation here, the material that both men recorded for Besman seems to be the sum total of their respective catalogues.
Both men actually managed just one contemporaneous release on Sensation - in fact Cotton managed one and a half, being deliberately miscredited as John Lee Hooker on his one other issued master on Modern, which had also reissued his sole Sensation 78 - although both had recorded a sizeable chunk of repertoire that remained unissued until the mid 1980s. Both vanished back into obscurity as soon as their association with Besman was over, and neither has been rediscovered or interviewed in the interim. Indeed, not a single new fact about either has been uncovered since respected blues writer Chris Smith - whose updated annotation graces the pages of Blues Sensation" - annotated the first vinyl issues of this material back in 1984!
It's not unreasonable to assume that both Cotton and Dunham have probably long since joined their former running mate JLH in the Great Blues Jam In the Sky - but nobody seems to know for sure. Fortunately Bernard Besman had the foresight to preserve the acetates for almost everything he recorded. It's thanks to this that, via the exceptional CD that is BLUES SENSATION, we are able to enjoy almost a full 80 minutes of raw-to-the-core, one-man-and-his-guitar Detroit down-homery for the first time in a long time, and in the kind of sound quality that hasn't been heard since the masters were originally recorded.
The 19 Sylvester Cotton sides were cut to acetate in a professional studio (probably United in downtown Detroit), and include at least one take of everything he recorded for Besman - several of which have never been released prior to this CD. Andrew Dunham also had at least one studio session with Besman - the results of which will be issued on an Ace Detroit Blues compilation, hopefully in late 2004 - but his four solo sides here were recorded on now-decaying, at-least 3rd-hand tape under less than desirable conditions, and thus were not easy for the Soundmastering guys to work with. Under the circumstances, we think you'll agree they have done a spectacular job of restoration - particularly of the unique one chord thrash She Don't Walk, which was assembled from a performance that was both punctuated by leakage from what was previously on the tape, and was in three pieces that didn't connect without some judicious editing!
Dunham is also joined on two of his sides by an individual, whom previous releases of some of this material have identified only as "Taylor" and who would appear to be James Taylor (no, not THAT one!), an older associate of Cotton, Dunham and Hooker whose only recordings the two versions of Little Bitty Woman would seem to be. Again, if you want obscure, you've come to the right place.
For everything we don't know about the bluesmen featured here, one thing we do know for sure is that each man's individual approach to Northern blues, Southern style deserved to be recorded. We must therefore be eternally grateful to the late Bernie Besman that, in his search to find the next Hooker, he took the time and trouble to capture and preserve these fabulous primitive performances. The vast archive of blues music would be considerably the poorer without them."


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Why do small children often cry loudly when they're hurt?
To retaliate against whoever hurt them
To scare away potential predators
To get their parents' or guardians' attention
To assert dominance over other children in the area
Someone from a "high-context culture" would generally...
Travel between more locations during the course of their day
Rely more on nonverbal cues in conversation
Change their traditions more frequently
Provide more background information when explaining something
You're buying groceries when you notice that someone has left a backpack or purse on the shelf by mistake. What action would be most appropriate in this situation?
Pretend you didn't see it
Bring the bag to the store manager so it can be returned
Call the police to report a potential bomb threat
Look through the bag to find information identifying its owner