4. Investing Activities (Details Narrative) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Investing Activities Details Narrative
Unrealized losses on below-investment-grade debt securities with a fair value of less than 80% of amortized cost	$ 41,177		$ 41,177		$ 44,536
Amount of unrealized losses on below-investment-grade debt securities with a fair value of less than 80% of amortized cost which were below 80% of amortized cost for more than 12 months	39,010		39,010		40,125
Debt impairments recognized through earnings	613	436	1,272	930
Debt impairments recognized through comprehensive income	2,390	346	2,817	732
Limited partnerships and other investments made up of private equity investments	5,404		5,404		4,620
Limited partnerships and other investments made up of common stock	350		350		345
Asset value of Variable Interest Entities	5,404		5,404		4,620
Net derivative assets of issuer and counterpary credit exposure	90,169		90,169
Debt securities of issuer and counterpary credit exposure	20,865		20,865
Maximum amount of loss due to issuer and counterparty credit exposure	$ 111,034		$ 111,034