We were guilty of showing signs of hope. The City of Miami however, called it graffiti.

Two weeks ago my friend Carolyn and I painted a mural on the exterior wall of the house. It's private property but the City of Miami cited us for violation of city codes. Specifically, Graffiti and erecting a sign without a finalized permit. Now one citation sort of contradicts the other - if it's graffiti it wouldn't be a sign, but never mind that right now.

The upshot is that we have a 30-day extension to remove the offensive mural (an anonymous person complained). Simon didn't want to get into details with the Inspector about the code ordinances, where to read them, and what constitutes what -- although the Inspector said had it been a political sign within 30 days of the election it would have been fine.

So Hope was given a stay of execution. And Simon and I are in violation of showing too much hope too soon. We have until November 9th to remove it without incurring fines. whew. Now we can focus on bigger things, like winning the election gosh darnnit.

To the anonymous complainer - when I picture you in my head I can't help but see the Grinch. A hater of hope. Hope hater.

It all becomes clear though... I mean think about it.... to support McCain and Palin means you have given up all Hope. You have surrendered to hate and fear. And we've got a big Notice of Violation that proves it. But we also have 30-days to rub our Hope in your Grinchy-Mavericky-Drill-Here- Drill-Now face, so there.

"... there has never been anything false about hope."