Salon previously published information about Women Against Sarah Palin...seems to the time is ripe to add GASP...Gays Against Sarah Palin!

Bravo Annie! And not to forget, we can make donations in SP's name to Defenders of Wildlife that has a wolf preservation program!

I was once opposed to Wal-Mart and avoided shopping there for all the reasons previously stated...

I am a part-time social worker. Couple weeks ago, for the first time, I lost my prescription sunglasses. I like larger frames that are not considered in style right now...I had found them on the internet at a fraction of what they would go for in the stores--and they are NOT designer frames. I had an extra frame in my posession.

The local franchise eye place REFUSED to use any old frame, or even a new one not purchased at their place. They were where I bought the original frame style, but it did not matter. Private opticians were quoting nearly $200, although they were willing.

It was a very necessary item and a very unwelcome expense...I went up to WalMart. Although it took over a week until they were in my hands, they were done well, and at less than half the cost, although there was an extra $20 fee for bringing in my frames from the outside.

As my friend Wendy says...it's survival.

Wonder if that was the first time during an acceptance speech the pres to be announced the first family would be getting a canine...regardless, an outstanding omen of good things to come; someone who seems to understand you reward good behavior, and keep your promises. Let's just hope it is a canine rescued from a shelter who has also endured hard times...a fitting analogy for us all.

Many have provided some excellent ideas...here are a few more from someone who is a social worker and has been the past 18+ years strictly with the older population, and whose grandmother had Alzheimer's.

Don't feel guilty for having the thoughts of not wanting to be a caregiver. Some people are blessed with the patience of saints, others are not, and make up for it in other ways. And be forewarned, often it is the relatives out of town who will be perceived as the best, most perfect kids, the ones who are so special and caring because they call every day etc. The ones in town providing the care, not so much.

Getting legal advice is ESSENTIAL. There is a window of look-back that will complicate things. Spending a bit more to get an attorney with experience in elder law is your best bet...even if it costs you more now, good advice may make things easier in the future.

It seems you have internet access...find a local chapter of the Alzheimer's Assn. Although you may not want to join a support group, they will be able to provide some decent information for you and your family to consider, and may know of local resources or programs to help...perhaps a small grant that will cover some time for respite for caregivers, or know the reliable sources of where help can be found locally, as in health care providers sensitive to the issues (just be aware they may have some studies they may try to engage you or your family member in, and if you choose to do so, it is your choice).

Your local community may offer some services. Many areas are covered by an Area Agency on Aging which can link you with what you might be looking for. You may also get this at your local city hall. Some services include transportation, lunch programs, housekeeping...all may have their own level of policies, but it doesn't hurt to ask. You may want to look up the eldercare locator which will provide a link to services.

Sometimes the progression of the disease goes slower...and problems may be a ways off. A huge breaking point for at-home caregiving can sometimes be incontinence. There is a wonderful company called HDIS that will deliver supplies to the home, even on a regular schedule...and there may be others. It is a huge convenience.

Also, if she should ever wander, or you have concerns about it, there are ID bracelets the Alzheimers can tell you about...called if I remeber correctly, Project Safe Return.

If you decide to hire privately, it is not cheap. You can use an agency, which will hopefully have back up if someone calls in sick...PLEASE make sure the people are bonded and have background checks done. This is especially essential if you decide to hire privately. There are companies out there who will provide you with an adequate release form and then will do a criminal background check for a fee. You may also want to create or find an application form for those you will interview. I have had to hire some people and after some bad calls, I actually created an assessment form...basically describing some real life scenarios and asking the applicant what they would do. This gives you a chance to see how they think and communicate.

No doubt everyone who has responded to you wishes you all the best...and remember, you are not alone.