Apology

While our kids were hopefully learning something in their swim lessons today, Megan and I chatted about comparing European medicine to American medicine. Since she is passionate, persuasive, and much more learned than me in the subject she quickly convinced me that much like comparing European education to American education--it's an apples to oranges sort of thing. If you want to know more--ask Megan about the different way Europeans record mortality rates, the pre-24 week preemies that are treated in the States but not in Europe, the problems with lack of prenatal care here versus there, and several other things I can't remember. In short--it doesn't compare easily or accurately. I stand corrected (well, sit corrected). I will never again try to compare the two. This in no way changes my opinion that the c-section rate in the USA is too high. However, Megan believes that is mainly due to malpractice suits and insurance companies rather than doctors. I don't know that I believe her completely--but she did make some great points. I'm issuing this formal apology because I get bugged when people try to compare American education to other countries. It just doesn't make sense and it is grossly misleading. I'd hate to do that to another worthy and valuable profession.

In other news, Megan lent me the next two Ranger's Apprentice books to read. Doesn't she realize I have MANY THINGS TO DO . The toilet in the bathroom, for example, needs cleaning in a pretty desperate way. I still need to blog about Miriam's birthday. I have a deadline for the EBW book, and Lindsay Ann is back in town which is going to require some serious partying. Starting tonight.

I'm sure I can squeeze in the partying around the Ranger books. Everything else though, I make no promises.