It’s been another long day- although this time, not due to the usual family, teething baby, dishes and laundry, but because I spent all day on Facebook urging people to vote and talking about International Gay Red Shirt Day. So much so, in fact, that it was noticed by one of two news stations in New Zealand and my blog was referenced in the news!  ::happydancewiggle::

I don’t know about you, but that kind of blew my mind. You know whose names are referenced in that article? Sir Ian effing McKellan’s …and mine!

Wait, wait…. WAIT.

Gandalf knows my name.
I’m just sayin’.

Well, he might have possibly read the article, being one of the figureheads of the movement after writing his own response to the Prime Minister’s nonchalant “Gay top” remark. And in that possible reading, he, in his awesome Sir Ian effing McKellenness, might have given a passing thought or two to my existence and maybe, just maybe he might have thought I was kind of cool, too. But what do I know- I’m not Sir Ian Effing McKellen.

If you want to read the post that was quoted, click here. For more nifty pictures and posts on equality, check out my Facebook album here.

In other news, I’m participating in 30 Days of Gratitude this November to help me recenter my heart and mind are what are truly important to me, in which I list 5 things during each day of November that I’m grateful for. You’re welcome to join in anytime or leave your own list of 5 in the comments!

Today, I am grateful for:

• The critically thinking parents’ group I belong to, who not only came up with IGRSD, but much moreover, help me to think, grow and progress in ways much outside my own capabilities. I haven’t had a group of anyone that I felt I belonged to since high school and now that I’m in my 30s, I really cherish the friendships, conversations and critical thinking that goes on in there. It reminds me of the quote,

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Mead

• Lack of a republican president. The whole system and every human is flawed, but I feel it’s the lesser of two evils, for sure. If you thought somehow I chose the name “Progressive” and wanted Mittens to win, you must have one of us confused.
  
• The fact that female voters nearly doubled male voters. There are suffragettes dancing in the sky over this, I know it.
• The fact that I felt proud of myself today- twice! It’s been a long time since I’ve felt like I’ve really accomplished anything worthwhile. I know that my site is growing as well as my Facebook page, which is all good and well… but I am growing. When I heard that I- me! made the news– and for activism for something I truly care about? SO awesome. The post isn’t anywhere near perfect. I’m no smarter or capable than you, I promise. But I did it. I saw something I cared about, I acted on it & it’s gaining momentum! I’d love to see a photo of you -from any place or time, even- wearing a red shirt in support, too! You can post photos to my Facebook wall that will be included in a collage Thursday. I also felt proud when I dropped my ballot into the box, wearing my baby. I had a really progressive day today!
• Nutella. It’s what I’m eating on toast as I drink my tea and type… gosh, is there anyone who isn’t grateful for chocolate hazelnut heaven??

I’m going to listen to NPR‘s recap of the elections while I nurse the baby to sleep so that I can eventually try and sleep, too.