Top Ten Things I Can Do Without in 2011 (in no order)

1. Horrible Drivers
Hard to pick between people texting or the ones who automatically drive slow when talking on cell phones. Another category is the ones who prefer the left lanes for the slow commute. I am guilty of driving 5-10 over posted speed because I can. I also believe that slow drivers cause accidents due to others having to maneuver around them. Perhaps police should cite the slow ones too for unsafe driving.

2. Store Discount Scams
Never understood why stores do not mark items down to lowest price that they will still make required profit margin. Do not need to see “We will match prices” or additional discount for opening a charge account. I expect to get the best price if I am there. What are they doing for current charge account holders? What happened to servicing your loyal customers rather than running them off to other stores? Another thing I hate is the Kohl’s “Cash Back” or “Mail in Rebate”. Please give me the money of discount now so I can buy more merchandise not wait a week or send something off.

3. Smug-Ass Bike Culture
Our community implemented calming lanes along our streets for bike and pedestrian traffic which is great for our safety. The down side of our small community the local bike clubs to use the streets for their imaginary “Tour de France” track. Hello, you are considered a vehicle and must obey the stop signs as such.

4. Reality Shows
Hate them and the contestants/washed up actors who participate. Think they get too much attention.

5. Hollywood type news
From the Lohan’s, Kardashian’s, Gosselin’s, divorces and scandals I have heard and seen enough. I realize it sells so I will live to ignore it.

6. The Over Use of the Term “Passive-Aggressiveness”
I write this fully aware of the fact that it's a bit of the pot calling the kettle black. Passive-aggressiveness is as much a part of my innate self as my tolerance of crowds and long lines. But there is something pretty satisfying about simply telling someone to f%^k off when they deserve it instead of icily turning the other cheek and stewing. In fact, feel free to use the comments section of this post for your maiden voyage into good ol' aggressive-aggressiveness.

7. Gas Price Jacking
News Flash! The pricing is not related to shortages its greedy oil companies. When will it stop?

8. Seeing the Economy Tank and the High Unemployment Rate
Hopefully 2011 will be a better year for the economy and put more people back to work

9. The Loss of Too Many Relatives and Friends
I am a realist and accept that with getting older more friends and family will move on to a better place. I hope that everyone stay healthy and safe for 2011.

10. Ineffective Government
Okay the Republicans had a good election. Will it Matter? No. Until the politicians can check their egos and personal agendas at the door and do what is best for ALL AMERICAN’s we are doomed. There is too much protection for the Insurance, Utility, Oil and a handful of other corporations. Let’s get back to basics and work together in 2011. I know good luck on that happening.

Please feel free to post your thoughts and may 2011 be good for you.