Note 7 - Investments Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded in AOCI (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	$ 11,328	$ 23,806	$ 151,001
Less: Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains or losses realized upon the sale of securities, net of tax	34,697	4,980	(59,392)
Net unrealized gain on investments, net of tax	46,025	28,786	91,609
Equity Securities [Member]
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	(3,928)	15,080	27,335
Less: Reclassification adjustment for unrealized gains or losses realized upon the sale of securities, net of tax	(2,769)	(1,242)	5,395
Net unrealized gain on investments, net of tax	$ (6,697)	$ 13,838	$ 32,730