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Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap Agreements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified |
3 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
|
Mar. 31, 2012
|
Mar. 31, 2011
|
|
| Derivatives - Interest Rate Swap Agreements [Abstract] | ||
| Effective hedge losses reclassified into earnings | $ (27,811) | $ (18,555) |
| Ineffective losses recorded on a current basis in earnings | (169) | (145) |
| Estimated amount related to derivatives reclassified to interest expense during the next 12 months | 107,933 | |
| Fair value of derivatives in net liability position, which includes accrued interest but excludes any adjustment for nonperformance risk, related to agreements | $ 219,959 | |
| Maximum leverage ratio the Company can reach before it could be in default of one of its derivative obligations | 12 to 1 | |
| Future cash flows for forecasted transactions, average period in months | 33 | |

