iPhone 4s, how do I love thee? AT&T How do I loath thee?

To the AT&T Company, I cannot understand how you stay in business. Bravo for fooling the Apple people into letting you handle the iPhone. The iPhone is a wonderful thing. But your customer service is horrible. Actually, I think it should be called something else, because you’re certainly not serving the customer. I am appalled. My daughter’s phone that we’ve had since march broke. I pay for the insurance each month. Her phone just quit working. So, after getting the run around from several people, because apparently no one at your company has any records of a customer’s calls or issues, I went to my AT&T store. That’s right, 2 people in customer service said that since it was less than a year old, I didn’t even need the insurance, just go to the store and they’ll replace it. Well, when I went to the store, waiting a half hour and told them this, they laughed at me. I believe the quote was “who told you that?”. So then the guy at the AT&T store placed the order online for me for the replacement phone. I told him that my daughter is going to New York City and she HAD to have the phone by today, (Tuesday, October 25), so he asked if I was willing to pay $12 extra shipping to guarantee that. I said yes. I was told it would come in the mail by today. When I went to check on the order (they told me I could track it), my order said they were sending me a “headset”. I was concerned this was the case, so I called AT&T Customer Service (ha, ha), I talked to Stephen who said on his screen it said they were sending me a phone, not a headset. I have the screen shot of what mine said. He guaranteed everything would be fine. Said it would be here Monday, Tuesday at the latest. Well, surprise, my mail came today and it’s not here. I am just sick to my stomach. So I called AT&T (customer service ha, ha, that’s so funny), and I talked to Cynthia. She then, I guess, transferred me because after reiterating the entire story, I was suddenly back at the main menu (“if you are calling about a problem with a different phone, dial that number now...”). I really think it is polite to tell someone if you were going to transfer them. Next I talked to Ciera. Poor Ciera, I was pretty much a crying mess when I talked to her. I had promised my daughter her phone would be here by today. She is leaving tomorrow for New York City. I feel like I am going to have a heart attack, I am so upset. At least Ciera called the “shipping company” for me, she said they said it may be here tomorrow or Thursday. Well, that does me no good whatsoever. But, I’m pretty sure AT&T hasn’t done much good for anyone. Ciera did tell me I could take my new iPhone 4S back to the store and return it and only pay the $35 restocking fee. We’ll be seeing if that’s true because I plan on taking it back as soon as I leave work. And I’ll probably get AT&T’s signature line..” Who told you THAT?” Seems to be a way they can get out of actually helping anyone. I hear Verizon carries the iPhone now, I may check it out. Can’t decide. I so love the iPhone. But I will NEVER, EVER, EVER buy another thing from AT&T, and I encourage everyone on the planet to stay away from them. They are horrible. Their customer service is not even a joke. When we had US Cellular, they were at least very helpful. I wish they carried the iPhone. With Verizon getting in on the iPhone, I can’t imagine too many people with stay with AT&T. Truth is, people are going to need help with things and if your customer service and your website are so horrible, eventually people will go somewhere else. I know that’s what my family is going to do. Please feel free to repost, tweet or email this!

Tea Party Rally in Madison, Wisconsin

Politics in Wisconsin are pretty messed up right now. It seems like a historical time, especially in downtown Madison around the capital. People are passionate about their political views. It's inspiring to hear people dialog about their viewpoints so passionately, and reading blogs and watching television and Youtube videos is very enlightening. I had always thought it would've been interesting to be alive in the sixties, to see the riots in downtown Madison, to stick up for what you believe in. To be a part of history. After attending the Tea Party rally a few weeks ago in Madison and watching Sarah Palin and a few other conservatives try to speak about their beliefs, I think I may have been wrong. I think maybe politics bring out people's true nature, be it good or bad. I was stunned at the way people were behaving. I understand these are important times. I understand there's a lot at stake. I know everyone thinks their opinion is the right one, but I was stunned at the behavior I witnessed. A lot of childishness, rudeness, and people being downright mean. To be honest, it was the people on the left wing that I witnessed this behavior from. Oh sure, one or two people in the Tea Party tried to crowd ahead of me to get closer to Sarah Palin, but that was nothing compared to the swearing, jeering, yelling, mocking and noise making I heard from the Democrats. Was this necessary? Did this help them score points with anyone? Did this help get their viewpoint across? I don't think so. I think it made them look petty and stupid. I know times are tough. I know people may not agree with the laws and decisions our government is making right now. And isn't it a great country that we live in where we have the right to criticize our government openly? What a gift that is. But shouldn't we do it reasonably, out of respect for our country? And if you vote for something and you lose fairly, shouldn't that be it to a point? I mean yes, get involved, write emails, join a committee, participate in a peaceful protest. But really, things were just so out of hand at that Tea Party rally. There was no respect by the left. There was no reason for those protesters to try to drowned out Sarah Palin with their milk jugs full of change, even though they were obviously worried about what she was saying. I would've had so much more respect if they would've shown up and protested respectfully and quietly, not like a bunch of out of control rapid psychos.
But hey, maybe that's what they were going for.
They convinced me they're idiots.

Celebrity Apprentice 2011

So, this year's Celebrity Apprentice has been pretty good. Not the best, but not the worst season. Kind of interesting. The cast includes Gary Busey, Dionne Warwick, Jose Canseco, Hope somebody, Richard Hatch, LaToya Jackson, Star Jones, NeNe Leakes, Lil Jon, Marlee Matlin, Meat Loaf, Mark McGrath, John Rich, Lisa Rinna, David Cassidy and Niki Taylor.
These are just some of my personal opinions on this season and the contestants, and I don't mean to offend anyone.
As someone who watches way too much reality television, I think I'm qualified to voice my opinions.
So, week 1 was a pizza making and selling challenge, and David Cassidy got out. First of all, I was sad to see that he got old. But more than that, I think he's a total alcoholic who needs help. I think someone should help him. Just sad.
Week 2 - they had to write a children's book and perform it for kids. I don't remember who got out. I think Lisa Rinna because she wouldn't play the back stabbing, do whatever it takes to get ahead game. Makes me like her.
Week 3 - camping challenge. Here's where Dionne Warwick proved what a mean, self centered. and lazy person she is. I really like Niki Taylor. She seems down to earth and likable.
Week 4 - Celebs had to create a 30 minute promotional video. Nothing too exciting.
Week 5 - Celebs create and sell their own artwork (if you can call it that). Lil Jon impressed me. Meat Loaf about went off on Gary Busey. Pretty entertaining tv.
Week 6 - Celebs must create a marketing campaign for Australian Gold. LaToya Jackson is not living in reality. Surprise, surprise, a Jackson living in never never land, trading on her brother's death and fame. What the hell has she ever done? Gary Busey tries to pitch himself to the head honchos at Australian Gold to be their spokesperson in the middle of the task. Classy he aint... Mark McGrath gets out, and I'm sad to see him go. He seems like a good guy.
Somewhere along the line Richard Hatch got out (I was surprised he didn't seem very mean or tough - I had remembered him that way from Survivor). And Jose Conseco got out. He didn't make much of an impression. NeNe Leakes, Marlee Matlin are there, not real strong personalities that I can see. Meat Loaf isn't level headed enough to get much farther. Gary Busey is a total fake jerk. John Rich is pretty smart and seems pretty level headed and sincere. Star Jones is the sneakiest person I've seen in a while. She totally knows how to turn things around and make herself look good. I would hate to go up against her. I think she will do anything to win. I don't think she's a very nice person.
I predict it will come down to John Rich and Star Jones.
A typical 'good vs evil" Celebrity Apprentice ending.

Wisconsin Politics

Governor Scott Walker of Wisconsin has passed a budget reform bill that has folks in Wisconsin rushing to Madison to protest at the state capital. Union workers are saying the bill goes to far and strips bargaining rights from union workers. Republicans say these are cuts that need to be made and people in the private sector have been tightening their belts for years. It's a tough time in Wisconsin politics right now, and with elections on April 5, things are really heating up. Whether or not you're a democrat or a republican, you'll find a t-shirt or button to express your views at my Zazzle store, Creative Thought T-Shirts, llc. We've got "Kill The Bill" tshirts and mugs, as well as merchandise supporting the fourteen Wisconsin Senators who fled to Illinois to avoid having to vote on the Budget Reform bill. We've got lots of other fun designs...from t-shirts and coffee mugs to onsies and hats.

One thing that's very important is to get out and vote and voice your opinion! Contact your senator or other elected officials and let them know your views.

Christmas ideas

make custom gifts at Zazzle

New Cigarette Packaging?

Well,
I found this blog on the White House page about the new cigarette labels they're proposing. While I suspect the big, rich tobacco companies will prevent this from ever seeing the light of day, I think it's a great idea. What do you think?

Farm Aid

The weekend of October 2nd I attended Farm Aid in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It was the 25th anniversary of the Farm Aid concert, started by Willie Nelson to raise money for family farmers and awareness of the plight of local farmers. First of all, it's a great cause. I've always wanted to go to the concert, and I wasn't going to miss my chance. The show was at Miller Park, probably not the best venue (in my opinion), but it was nice that they closed the roof, as it did rain a little. The sound was actually better than I thought it would be. They had a "Homegrown Village" which had some information about issues and organic farming, I would've liked to wander through and talk to some of these people, but they were crammed into a small area and there were too many people milling around. They had it set up rather poorly, kind of like a dead-end, hard to get in and out of. Perhaps a limitation of the venue. Also, they had some organic food options, but they also had the regular Miller Park food options...hot dogs, popcorn, beer, etc. (Is there organic beer? They certainly weren't selling any. Probably because they were at Miller Park and didn't want to cut into profits).

Here was the line up of performers...
The Blackwood Quartet
Robert Francis
Randy Rogers Band
BoDeans
Amos Lee

Between 3 and 5
Band of Horses
Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real
Jamey Johnson

Between 5 and 7
Jason Mraz
Jeff Tweedy
Norah Jones
Kenny Chesney

Between 7 and 11
Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds
John Mellencamp
Neil Young
Willie Nelson


The concert itself was great. It had some wonderful moments - namely when Steven Tyler came out and sang with Willie Nelson. I loved it. It also had some not so great moments. Here's my rundown...

Didn't get there until the BoDeans. They were great. I wish the audience would've been more receptive and made them feel more appreciated! I'm not sure they heard me screaming from the cheap seats. They sounded wonderful. If you haven't checked out the BoDeans newest cd, Mr. Sad Clown, you should. I highly recommend it.
Amos Lee - very nice. I hadn't heard him before. I'll be checking out more of his music online.
Band of Horses - quite impressive. I liked their sound very much. Again, I'll be looking into their music more. Looks like they have a pretty cool website, too.
Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real - the nicest thing I can say about Lukas Nelson is that he is a good guitar player. I did not care for his voice at all, but out of my love and respect for his father, Willie, I will say no more.
Jamey Johnson - this guy can sing! He has such a strong, powerful voice! I loved it! Really a good musician.
Jason Mraz - I was never a big fan. I'll be honest, he seemed a little cocky, with his little hat. But seeing him perform live, I have a whole new respect for him. I like him. His little had even grew on me. He seems friendly.
Jeff Tweedy - again, I wasn't familiar with him. Apparently he was/is with Wilco. I LOVED him. A great voice. I am amazed at his talent and voice!
Norah Jones - I love Norah Jones. I think she has a beautiful voice. I have to admit, I liked her better when her hair was more natural and she didn't wear so much makeup. She's kind of modded herself up to look like everybody else. I liked the softer look better.
Kenny Chesney - what a nice, strong voice this guy has. He seemed really genuine, and I liked his singing. Impressed!
Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds - Never thought too much about him until I saw him in person. This guy has charisma. I think Dave Matthews is some kind of crazy, sexy genius. That's all I'm going to say.
John Mellencamp - I have to admit, I have always loved John Mellencamp. Saw him in concert about 20 years ago, and it was great. (Wait, maybe it was 25 years ago...) I have all of his albums, and was looking forward to seeing him. When he came out I wondered how he had gotten so old. Then I remembered, I too have aged in the last 20 years! I was blown away by the energy of his performance! This guy can rock! He sounded fabulous! I loved every minute of it. If he tours within 100 miles of my house, I'm there.
Neil Young - again, one of my all time favorites. I've seen him in concert four times. I am such a fan of his music. I admit, I mostly like the piano and slower songs. Love the Harvest Moon album. Anyway, he did a lot of "feedback", which I am not a fan of. And he spoke passionately about the plight of farmers and the big corporations and how we should read the label on everything we eat. He made some good points, but mostly seemed angry. Perhaps because the crowd seemed to be filled with falling down drunks. ( I literally had 3 drunk people fall down on me. I'm all for partying, but c'mon people, grow up a little ). Maybe he was disappointed in us?
and of course...
Willie Nelson - What can I say about Willie? I really like Willie. Like his music a lot. He did bring his son out and let his son sing even more, which was a little annoying, but, he's Willie Nelson, he can do whatever the hell he wants. And Steven Tyler came out and sang with Willie and that was surreal.
Overall, a fantastic concert! They played until after 11:30 pm! A very long day.


I think they did a great job keeping the down time between performers to a minimum, that had to be tricky, but it was appreciated. I wish the BoDeans would've gotten to do more than three songs. I think it would've been nice if they had shown video on the 3 big screens during the between the acts set up time. They could've had the artists talking about some of the issues/causes/successes of Farm Aid. I would've really enjoyed Dave Matthews and Kenny Chesney doing their "I'm Alive" song together.
My biggest sadness was when the night was over and we walked through the parking lot to our cars. There was litter EVERYWHERE. The place was trashed. Here I thought these were like minded people who all believed in something, but it seems a lot of them were just self centered drunks looking for a party.
Well, it was a good party.

Back to school time already...

Yes, just a few more days and it's back to school for the kiddos.
I can't believe it! Another summer is almost finished.
The last few weeks have been filled with trying to fit in all of the things we thought we would do this summer. Going camping, going to the beach, going kayaking, watching a parade, and stuff like that. I hate to admit that we've spent way too much time in front of the tv and computer.
I've toyed with the idea of getting rid of cable tv all together. We did fine without it for the first 7 years of the kids lives, I don't know what possessed me to get cable in the first place. PBS is great. And we have wasted so much time watching mindless tv. Time when we could've been outside actually doing something, or reading a book. I feel like such a bad mom sometimes. So, now I think we're going to set some serious limits on time spent on the computer and the tv. It won't bring the summer back, but I can only change the future...not the past.
Hope everyone has a wonderful back to school year. I love fall!