On Welfare

 So, about Nadya Suleman and the octuplets.  There's been a lot of stories about her, but I'm not here to criticize her decision to have eight children at one go, or her decision to have "a big family" because she was an only kid and always wanted one.  I'm not here to criticize her life choices, although they aren't the ones I would make.

 I am here, though, because her word choices are making me a little irritated.

 Nadya Suleman has said that she's responsible.  That she would not make the decision to take welfare.

 But she takes food stamps and disability payments (for 3 of the six previous kids).

 I have news for her.  Those are welfare.  If you're recieving money from the government to assist you because your income falls below a certain threshhold, you are recieving welfare.  WIC is a welfare program.  Food Stamps are a welfare program.  Disability is a little murkier, but I think it would still qualify as welfare.

 She's not the first person to say this.  One of my coworkers qualified for WIC at one point, but insists that's not welfare.

 I think I understand why people don't want to use the word welfare.  It has an unpleasant stigma, it brings an unpleasant image to your mind. 

 If you need help, though, there is no shame in taking the help that you are qualified for.  As a single mother, when I leave the Army, will I likely qualify for WIC for the next two years?  Probably.  Are people going to look down on me?  Maybe.

 Quit redefining words to make yourself comfortable. 

 DV

It's an actual title

 Pride and Prejudice and Zombies.

 Coming out May 13.  How can YOU not buy a book with a title like that?

 Lydia, of course, should be pretty safe.  Since she's not overly burdened in the 'braaaaaiiiiins' department.

 DV