Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Balance Sheet Related Disclosures [Abstract]
Fixed maturities, Held-to-maturity securities, at fair value	$ 1,681	$ 4,161
Fixed maturities, Available-for-sale securities, at amortized cost	2,657,800	2,562,786
Fixed maturities, Trading securities, at amortized cost	12,645	13,429
Equity Securities, Available-for-sale securities, at amortized cost	66,892	66,787
Equity Securities, Trading securities, at amortized cost	1,772	1,772
Allowance for doubtful accounts	866	825
Property and equipment accumulated depreciation	$ 34,982	$ 35,248
Common stock, par value per share	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized	75,000,000	75,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	25,227,463	25,505,350
Common stock, shares outstanding	25,227,463	25,505,350