tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59718107792834236822024-03-14T08:18:34.387-06:00The Original JCJoshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.comBlogger835125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-61047206933513877502015-06-23T09:46:00.002-06:002015-06-23T09:46:24.208-06:00You're Going Camping ?Yes, yes I am ... and<b><span style="color: #38761d;"> I'm actually really looking forward to it.</span></b><br />
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But <b><span style="color: #674ea7;">for some of you the thought of camping seems ridiculous.</span></b> For you I share the following quote from one of my favorite stand-up comedians, Jim Gaffigan.<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/90/2e/b6/902eb641721083750ba2f6963b9e335f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/236x/90/2e/b6/902eb641721083750ba2f6963b9e335f.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
Contrary to the popular line from the film 'Dumb and Dumber', that John Denver is <b>NOT</b> full of $#!+ ... in fact, his song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LLWD2WIvRQk"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Rocky Mountain High"</span></b></a> is a great tribute to some of the most enjoyable parts of the camping experience. That John Denver was brilliant!<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-70634025964945487232015-06-20T16:14:00.000-06:002015-06-20T16:14:49.294-06:00What Kind Of Contraption Is This ?As part of my 'flight to Cleveland' experience this past week, <span style="color: #990000;">I enjoyed the obligatory <i>wait around the baggage carousel</i> time period</span>. The time was lengthened as a result of rain and lightning, which I was informed by a neighboring fan of the rotating luggage, is due to regulations that say baggage handlers are not allowed to continue moving luggage if there is a risk of lightning. The more you know, right?!<br />
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While awaiting my green, hard-cover, old school, actually-was-my-wife's-in-college, suitcase to come crashing onto the mechanical snake, <b><span style="color: #134f5c;">I spied a curious contraption that I could not easily identify.</span></b> The individual parts of it were common items: a rubber garden hose, a plastic tarp, some wire hooks, string, and a multi-gallon bucket perched on a stand or platform. But i<span style="color: #674ea7;">t's purpose was debatable.</span> Is it some form of modern art? Or a specially designed delivery system with connections to the business of baggage delivery?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBdizWi_9wNppguWGmy7U7vMnyPkEFP9XE7Pz7ts2HLRjyD1ySGVCE8V6Qqk46Z6HEP9jtudICGffl5bgTt0o3qbp2FtiPrpsp4V5W6OFBD3kAnCOYZsu6cVEx7CozSyqWK2fijLtC4c/s1600/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKBdizWi_9wNppguWGmy7U7vMnyPkEFP9XE7Pz7ts2HLRjyD1ySGVCE8V6Qqk46Z6HEP9jtudICGffl5bgTt0o3qbp2FtiPrpsp4V5W6OFBD3kAnCOYZsu6cVEx7CozSyqWK2fijLtC4c/s320/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+001.JPG" width="239" /></a></div>
<b><span style="color: #bf9000;">After closer inspection, I found its true purpose</span></b>, which led to a whole host of other questions. As you can see on the right, this is apparently a leaking water collection apparatus, specifically engineered to keep clearly dirty water from dripping or otherwise spilling onto passengers or their luggage. Rather than being a long-term solution, this marvel of man-genuity <b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">(SIDEBAR: I'm trying to add a new word to our vocabulary - ingenuity is well known, but man-genuity is more like a Macgyver solution ... duct tape and spare parts that <i>temporarily,</i> or arguably <i>poorly,</i> correct a problem)</span></b> is clearly not intended for permanent use. And yet, judging by the stains in the ceiling tiles, there is little urgency to finalize the remedy to this drainage problem.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #783f04;">I found myself marveling at the presence of this make-shift mechanism in such a high profile, public locale.</span></b> In my own garage and throughout my home are likely dozens of examples of my own man-genuity ... but those are privately held and certainly not something I would ever accept in a professional place.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
I've chosen the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjRPDzcmJT4"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Four Five Seconds"</span></b></a> by Rihanna, Paul McCartney and an artist I won't feature anymore in this blog for this post, in typical fashion for TWO reasons: First, that is approximately the length of time that any man-genuity project should survive - anything longer and you should use ingenuity; Second, the song itself is an example of another aspect of man-genuity: incompleteness. Instead of the polished version of a radio song, this back-of-a-crowded-car feeling tune seems thrown together, comprised of parts that normally don't interact (what is SIR Paul McCartney doing among this group?) but the result is oddly somewhat satisfying, at least initially.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-77719901159157401092015-06-19T21:34:00.000-06:002015-06-20T10:01:56.782-06:00Are Your Choices Really Yours ?This evening, after being away from my loved ones all week for a business trip, I watched a movie titled <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Adjustment_Bureau"><span style="color: #b45f06;">"The Adjustment Bureau"</span></a> with my wife and two oldest sons. It has two prominent stars in the roles of main characters but I could not recall hearing anything about it when it came out 5 years ago.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><b>I <i>really</i> enjoyed this movie!</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://images.christianpost.com/blog/full/17099/choice-sign.gif?w=337&h=199" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.christianpost.com/blog/full/17099/choice-sign.gif?w=337&h=199" height="117" width="200" /></a>The basic premise, without really spoiling anything, is that there exists a group of people (not human, not angels) who <i>influence</i> our lives and fate by <i>adjusting</i> our rationality as related to decision-making. This helps keep us <i>on track</i> to play our part in the master plan.<br />
The main male character in the film finds out about this group and <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">is then faced with a dilemma</span></b>: trust in the path that leads him to some impressive personal glory OR go against that plan and follow his heart - or <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">in other words, make his own choices without being influenced</span></b> by these <i>adjusters</i>.<br />
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For me, <b><span style="color: #351c75;">this movie allowed for reflection on <i>how</i> I am making the choices in my life. </span></b> What thoughts or perceptions or beliefs <i>influence</i> my decisions? What are my motives? What truly is my end goal? What am I willing to sacrifice to achieve what I want? And, what are truly the most important aspects of my existence?<br />
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If you're in the mood for an action-packed (with a cute love story for the ladies) but thought-provoking film, I would recommend The Adjustment Bureau. We found it in the $5 bin at Wal-Mart but it might even be on Netflix or available elsewhere.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
The other great thing about this film is that it gives a perfect blog topic for me to feature a song I've enjoyed since I first heard it: <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHrLPs3_1Fs"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Budapest"</span></a></b> by George Ezra. The title is misleading unless you know the lyrics of the song, where the singer indicates he would give up his house in Budapest for the love of his life. Most people who've heard the song focus on the chorus lyrics <i>For you-oo I'd leave it all.</i> The tie in to today's post is fairly obvious - and once you watch the movie you'll appreciate the tune even more.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-15125229743869958732015-06-14T16:48:00.001-06:002015-06-14T16:48:01.923-06:00Bananas Over Mommy ?<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEFm1N3ddwg0aZKyRuBx2U3Sm1Rm8HZ6BCPrt69gfun85aTpDZ0g5SvXnkc-UegWJIgIWK7dImnpROEIq_N8kQ4N062pQuPbfHllNtnxp-1Q98vS75Brnge9o4skW87wW1zd6-deWw4c/s1600/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEFm1N3ddwg0aZKyRuBx2U3Sm1Rm8HZ6BCPrt69gfun85aTpDZ0g5SvXnkc-UegWJIgIWK7dImnpROEIq_N8kQ4N062pQuPbfHllNtnxp-1Q98vS75Brnge9o4skW87wW1zd6-deWw4c/s400/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+019.JPG" width="298" /></a>As you can see in the picture to the right (from a few months ago), Spencer's onesie <span style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-small;"><b>(pronounced won-zee for those readers who don't have kids and thus have no idea what that is)</b></span> makes quite a statement ...<br />
but it can be interpreted at least TWO different ways.<br />
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<b><u>Option #1:</u></b><br />
- <span style="color: #0b5394;">The phrase <i>could mean</i> that Spencer is 'bananas' over his mother</span> - in the context that 'bananas' means: crazy about, loves, enamored with, excited to see, etc.<br />
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<b><u>Option #2:</u></b><br />
- The phrase <i>could be </i>a comparison of two distinctly different things: Bananas <i>and</i> Mommy. In this scenario, the wearer of the clothing depicting the phrase is indicating the order of their preference - <i><span style="color: red;">I choose 'bananas' OVER choosing 'Mommy' ... 'cause that's how I roll!</span></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
My opinion is that the latter explanation <b>IS</b> more accurate if there are both bananas and Mommy present. In the absence of bananas, the first explanation is also accurate for Spencer.<br />
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<u><b><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of the Day:</span></b></u><br />
Say what you will about some of her choices and brand image, I am still a fan of MANY songs by Madonna, including <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEygTz-9-SU"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Crazy For You"</span></b></a> which is today's song choice. Set aside any personal negative feelings you may have for the singer and you might find yourself enjoying this simple, yet meaningful tune. It just so happens this <i>might be</i> how Spencer would articulate his love of bananas <i>and</i> Mommy. Okay, probably not ...<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-64320244238292433252015-06-13T21:00:00.004-06:002015-06-13T21:00:58.202-06:00How Can You Be So Calm ?Just after Noon today, I had a harrowing, yet exhilarating experience:<br />
<b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">I was flown in a small airplane ... by my son.</span></b><br />
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A few important factoids:</u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrXxy3trU9aBsBYGRsi3lLtjp6PQBYSrxZaKF3BardR0i6imGx-Fd9ZaLimKvaqdVfWJPLGjHKvwBkDc5JoYBTrMz_BpNNebyf-EeBGCh4lohjrdUjIhS5ZKqutw6yzWtOCZFIcC3YOo/s1600/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHrXxy3trU9aBsBYGRsi3lLtjp6PQBYSrxZaKF3BardR0i6imGx-Fd9ZaLimKvaqdVfWJPLGjHKvwBkDc5JoYBTrMz_BpNNebyf-EeBGCh4lohjrdUjIhS5ZKqutw6yzWtOCZFIcC3YOo/s200/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+105.JPG" width="149" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Josh Jr at the helm</td></tr>
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- Josh Jr has <u style="font-style: italic;">never</u> flown before today (never actually been in an airplane either!)<br />
- The <i>actual</i> pilot never left his seat ... but his hands were off the steering column for MOST of the flight (except the takeoff, final approach, and landing).<br />
- No one in the plane vomited.<br />
- Everyone in the plane was <i>treated</i> to several moments of <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">unplanned weightlessness</span></b>.<br />
- I cannot say I was never worried about my safety, but <b><span style="color: #38761d;">I was more impressed by my son</span></b> and his courage, ability to learn, and composure during what he later dubbed 'way longer than I thought I'd be responsible for flying!'<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6Qux5WiexRqqJ1Lt4lO0kkppCuEphTHPjNRBsxIuL80bUlQ6kQKqZ0szYQ4ivo6xNEarFy1rpKyiq2psFBiJsermqFqVrxmutwuvXg3gx2EWeQsrcaSANZwTjipSEWEnk1WPIPsYxvA/s1600/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG6Qux5WiexRqqJ1Lt4lO0kkppCuEphTHPjNRBsxIuL80bUlQ6kQKqZ0szYQ4ivo6xNEarFy1rpKyiq2psFBiJsermqFqVrxmutwuvXg3gx2EWeQsrcaSANZwTjipSEWEnk1WPIPsYxvA/s200/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+106.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carlos, hands OFF the controls,<br />calmly instructing Josh Jr ... as he flies</td></tr>
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Now as to the title of today's post, the actual pilot, Carlos, was unbelievably <u style="font-style: italic;">CALM</u> throughout the whole experience - including some arguably <b>scary</b> situations. In fairness, he has logged over 500 flight hours and clearly has enough experience to know when there is <i style="font-weight: bold;">real</i> danger versus <i>perceived</i> danger. But it was HIS plane we were in (not a cheap plane either!) and he <i>barely</i> knew our group and certainly had almost no understanding of whether or not Josh Jr was capable of being the 'pilot' for any duration of time.<br />
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I suppose it is true that the more experience you have, the easier it is to remain calm and in control of your emotions in the face of challenges. <b><span style="color: #990000;">There's a life lesson to be learned here</span></b> ... but it may take a few more days of reflection for me to find it. At least my stomach isn't bouncing around now.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2hR6EEbHkWN_rnT-6hHQyEXTZfLxCSyA-Nls4Yybo9lKDn_AyuioV79YlLem50vczX9fBxsyXuolpdmL7jVXxcsaMAlMppzqKFEAKQl43EWefm5H6wTJxrQF5SEA4-nrzk7yfNBgeQ4/s1600/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih2hR6EEbHkWN_rnT-6hHQyEXTZfLxCSyA-Nls4Yybo9lKDn_AyuioV79YlLem50vczX9fBxsyXuolpdmL7jVXxcsaMAlMppzqKFEAKQl43EWefm5H6wTJxrQF5SEA4-nrzk7yfNBgeQ4/s200/Josh+Sr%2527s+Phone+104.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from our plane, shortly<br />after takeoff - right as Josh Jr took<br />control of the aircraft</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If you listen to ANY pop radio, I am certain you've heard the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwCEqI6-vPA"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Geronimo"</span></b></a> by Sheppard, but I've linked the <i>acoustic</i> version in this post for two reasons: first, I <i>thought</i> the words 'geronimo' and 'bombs away' during the flight today; and second, being in the airplane without the <i>support</i> of the actual pilot shares some similarities to a version of a song that is stripped of the <i>support</i> of heavy instruments and electronics. In fact, <b><span style="color: #741b47;">Josh Jr did much better after the pilot instructed him</span></b> to focus on the horizon ahead <i>instead of the many instruments on the dashboard.</i> Sometimes it is better/easier to go with the basic senses.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-47073578715847038142015-06-12T20:42:00.001-06:002015-06-12T20:42:05.081-06:00Why Do You Wear Sports Team Apparel ?I've been accused of it too - <b><i><span style="color: #b45f06;">'You're just jumping on the bandwagon huh?!'</span></i></b> And while that might be accurate in some situations, I can make an equally compelling argument in favor of <b><span style="color: #38761d;">the accessibility of team merchandise.</span></b><br />
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<a href="http://blogs.denverpost.com/thebalancesheet/files/2009/04/rockies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://blogs.denverpost.com/thebalancesheet/files/2009/04/rockies.jpg" height="200" width="154" /></a>In the 2007 season the Colorado Rockies went on an <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2007_Colorado_Rockies_season"><span style="color: red;">unbelievable win streak</span></a> that carried them into an improbable World Series appearance. I've been a 'home team' fan for pretty much all of my married life <span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-small;">(I hated the Denver Broncos when my family of origin first moved to CO, but that's another post for another time)</span>, but it's been mostly a passive support. <b><span style="color: #351c75;">As the Rockies made this run for the ages, I noticed that team gear began popping up in stores EVERYWHERE.</span></b> And the prices for everything were much more reasonable than normal. As a result, I purchased a replica jersey and wore it a few times through their playoff run.<br />
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But does that automatically make me a 'bandwagon jumper' <b><span style="color: #666666;">or was I just an economically conscious fan?</span></b> I didn't root against the team before, nor was I any more impassioned as a fan after purchasing and wearing the jersey. It was truly just more convenient and an easy conversation piece.<br />
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After all, 'fan' is an abbreviation of 'fanatic' and I certainly am not <b><i><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">that </span></i></b>about really ANY team any longer. I root, I cheer, I read box scores and articles, I talk about the games, win or loss. <b><span style="color: orange;">But I almost exclusively wear the 'gear' because it is convenient.</span></b> People assume I LOVE the Broncos be use I have gloves, a jacket, a few jerseys, a few hats, etc. - but these were almost all gifts or very inexpensive and of a good quality for the cost. I like rooting for the home team, but if I was in another state I'd probably root for those teams and wear their apparel, so long as it was reasonably priced and readily available.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Song Of The Day:</span></b><br />
When a 'bandwagon' forms, those on it are a judgmental bunch. They clamor at you to <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tDjYuqJRJQ"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Come With Me Now"</span></a> </strong>(a great tune by the Kongos) but then if you follow them and join on, they deride you as a fair weather fan.<br />
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What the what people?!<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-80662783367491993552015-06-11T12:30:00.000-06:002015-06-11T15:59:38.513-06:00Can Song Lyrics Be 100% Accurate ?Today's post is centered on the lyrics of the <i><span style="color: red;">song of the day</span></i>. One benefit of not having blogged in a while is that I have a fresh list of (used to be) NEW songs to highlight in my posts of reflection, questioning, and sometimes silliness.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
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I absolutely love and can agree virtually 100% with the lyrics to the song <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=exLbCE-axFE"><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Believer"</span></a> </strong>by American Authors. If you've never reflected on the lyrics of a song before, might I suggest this one? Especially <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">if you fancy yourself an optimist or a hopeful person</span></b> - despite countless experiences or people discounting your desires to be a <i>believer</i>.<br />
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If you don't like the tune or can't connect to YouTube wherever you are reading this post, here are the lyrics for your review. See if, like me, <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">you can actually envision yourself experiencing the various emotions and reactions described in the song</span></b>. Which one(s) are most applicable to you? Which do you think are most common among the people in your life? Which would you be most surprised to find out <i>I agree with</i>?<br />
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<span style="color: #bf9000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"><b><u>Lyrics Of BELIEVER:</u></b></span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm just a believer</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">That things will get better</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Some can take it or leave it</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">[x2]</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit sheltered</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit scared</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit nervous</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm goin' no where</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit jealous</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit slow</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit hurtful </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">And I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">No...</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">And I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm a little bit angry </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">When every one's around</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I get a little lonely</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">When no one's out</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I feel my demons</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Misleadin' me</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm just a believer</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">That things will get better</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Some can take it or leave it </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">[x2]</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Maybe when I get older</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">And I'm in the ground</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">The weight's off my shoulders </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">It was bringin' me down</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I've never been that lucky </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I've never tasted fame</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm always lookin' for something</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I hate changin'</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Time fades</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">There's no space</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">As life breaks new ground</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm just a believer</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">That things will get better</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Some can take it or leave it </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">[x2]</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">It doesn't matter what is out there</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">My head is spinning and it won't bail out</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">It doesn't matter what is out there</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Cause time fades</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">There's no space</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">As life breaks new ground</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">I'm just a believer</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">That things will get better</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Some can take it or leave it </span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">But I don't wanna let it go</span><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">[x3]</span></span>Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-31359415155693075272015-06-10T21:21:00.000-06:002015-06-10T21:21:00.991-06:00Does Prioritizing Ever Get Any Easier ?<strong><span style="color: #674ea7;">I constantly struggle to feel good about the order of my priorities.</span></strong> After spending time in any number of activities, I often found myself reflecting on <em>other things</em> I had NOT done instead during that time. Depending on the situation, this caused a variety of feelings (see: guilt, inadequacy, heavily burdened, wanting to quit, etc.) and those feelings led me to finding fault or flaws in myself. I began to believe I was lazy, or maybe another time it found out I dislike spending time with my family, or perhaps the 'real issue' is that I am afraid of trying new things or afraid of change. But it turns out, it isn't any of those things - which are only true in fleeting moments. <u><span style="color: #990000;">The real challenge is this:</span></u> <span style="color: #cc0000;">After at least 30 years of trying to improve in my ability to effectively prioritize my 'life' <strong><em>it feels like I am no better at it than when I started!</em></strong></span><br />
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Aren't we supposed to <em>improve</em> as we do things?</div>
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What about the following quote?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk_UrIuSLxvvbuDSoD0Sc7GrT8iIzWxTyEtDlekCqmze39_WqcoDGJBTT8rPFZYLpT2sw2EcxJHDmlGXXix-dgl5k2XbctnbxaulErgIapTho-DgSjaM2PuNoR5jhvPV-tTVUkNbsoHw/s1600/RWE+Quote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXk_UrIuSLxvvbuDSoD0Sc7GrT8iIzWxTyEtDlekCqmze39_WqcoDGJBTT8rPFZYLpT2sw2EcxJHDmlGXXix-dgl5k2XbctnbxaulErgIapTho-DgSjaM2PuNoR5jhvPV-tTVUkNbsoHw/s400/RWE+Quote.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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How are we supposed to feel good about ourselves if we cannot seem to make meaningful, noteworthy progress in all aspects of our humanity?<br />
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Why do I constantly find myself wondering if I am spending my time in the BEST activities? Or creating an endless list of 'Things To Do' which can never fully be finished, only to question items on that list when reviewing it later? <span style="color: #b45f06; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(Ehh, it's not <em>that</em> important to get the oil changed <em>today</em>. I'll get around to reading that book <em>eventually</em>. We had a date night <em>last week</em> ... that's good enough, right?!)</span><br />
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Perhaps the answer is echoed in the adage: <span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;">Those who <em><strong>can't</strong></em>, teach.</span><br />
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Maybe I'm not meant to ever <em>feel good</em> about prioritizing things, but through my example (good or bad) others can <em>learn</em> how to better prioritize for themselves.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="background-color: white; color: #274e13; font-size: large;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></strong><br />
With a chorus that include the phrase "Even as we stumble through the darkness and the light - you know these were the best years of our lives." OMD's melancholy love song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7_Kls46yrXY"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Best Years Of Our Lives"</span></b></a> feels somehow appropriate for this post. When I stress about priorities, I always end up calming down by reminding myself that <i>these are some of the BEST years of my life</i>. It is natural to wonder whether we're doing the best we can and this song helps me reflect on the choices I am making now, hopefully helping me make even better choices going forward.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-76778241721549762182015-01-04T18:44:00.002-07:002015-01-04T18:44:50.308-07:00Where Are My Sisters ?<div>
My youngest son, Spencer, just turned two around Thanksgiving. <b><span style="color: #0b5394;">He IS the last child for my wife and I</span></b> - this is a certainty!</div>
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<b><span style="color: #990000;">Spencer hates to be alone or without his siblings (or his mommy).</span></b> At church, he is now old enough to attend Nursery, where he can play and eat snacks with other toddlers his age. Today I am especially thankful for sweet Sisters in the Church who are trying to help him learn how to cope with these short separations from family (it will be hard for him to learn anything at school if he cannot be separated from siblings or family members for more than a few minutes). His separation anxiety screaming today caused me to reflect on some pictures I took of him over the last few months. <b><span style="color: #e06666;">I hope you find them as heartwarming as I do.</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusnbJEjiiT-VwyaDzSqQfferEYQsDna-W3mjQlLDPkwHSeLGElKmEKTL5RUC60GbXElOnptQ3LwycGHddL9HUqUj1kpk-HhyphenhyphenLhelZ77JVF83piQ10Qyfafo3m9dDMa6e03w6iWuqlFGY/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjusnbJEjiiT-VwyaDzSqQfferEYQsDna-W3mjQlLDPkwHSeLGElKmEKTL5RUC60GbXElOnptQ3LwycGHddL9HUqUj1kpk-HhyphenhyphenLhelZ77JVF83piQ10Qyfafo3m9dDMa6e03w6iWuqlFGY/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B003.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Case girls were sleeping in the Movie Room ...<br />and Spencer didn't want to miss out.<br />So he was very sneaky and made his way into the room,<br />falling asleep next to his 'favorite' sister (Myra, age 4 here).</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQv87EMrcrPG0ANtZS2CmcXneANXBlgkUXjw9BZu_6LhUFgJPBnQ6N9_xP1s0vgifvnoSgHtABCmGPYUw3LWfaxOoIxzrp6_-iaUtZzv3VbWIoMx-o_iAws0em3X-4qXpGkiD5aDOWgP0/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQv87EMrcrPG0ANtZS2CmcXneANXBlgkUXjw9BZu_6LhUFgJPBnQ6N9_xP1s0vgifvnoSgHtABCmGPYUw3LWfaxOoIxzrp6_-iaUtZzv3VbWIoMx-o_iAws0em3X-4qXpGkiD5aDOWgP0/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B004.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myra helped make Spencer a mini-bed (in his bedroom)<br />out of the chair cushion and his handmade-by-mommy blanket.<br />His smile HAS TO make you smile!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQcgG48MtGXItLp_kPGrpb1w47qlY-Zs0ehvInRm1MLB3-sr15cn93e03kqwx2LmiiGR578IGcnA1VTXbmJZxCXFVIAhUD8u60TUWULIfoDHGAz1SNu-CZ8jmdB5Tj1czLT60qIxBFKg/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPQcgG48MtGXItLp_kPGrpb1w47qlY-Zs0ehvInRm1MLB3-sr15cn93e03kqwx2LmiiGR578IGcnA1VTXbmJZxCXFVIAhUD8u60TUWULIfoDHGAz1SNu-CZ8jmdB5Tj1czLT60qIxBFKg/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B002.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One evening, while Karen and I were chatting,<br />we noticed that Spencer had wandered off.<br />A quick search revealed that he had gone to the basement<br />and had fallen asleep <i>outside</i> his sister's bedroom<br />(he obviously couldn't get the door open or he'd be inside).<br />The hallway was completely dark when I found him -<br />and he <i>hates</i> the dark - but not as much as he missed his sisters!</td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
Sundays are great for a capella music and probably my favorite a capella group is the one my cousin sings Bass for: Eclipse 6. One of their Christmas CDs includes the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7IiVUIoMso"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Lullaby"</span></b></a> and it is a beautiful tune any time of year - but I can also imagine Mary singing this to the baby Jesus and it warms my heart in a different way. I hope you like it.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-12846182749170767182015-01-03T21:06:00.002-07:002015-01-03T21:06:33.085-07:00Should The Name Have Been A Giveaway ?<b><span style="color: #38761d;">All my children have been and will continue to grow up in a virtual world.</span></b> Connection to the internet is a constant, with all its trappings and immediate expectations. <b><span style="color: red; font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">This is a blessing and a curse.</span></b> I've learned a significant number of things from my children related to the world of electronics and virtual connectivity.<div>
- My <span style="color: #134f5c;">15 year old son</span> is NEVER without his iPhone, but he has shown me (and my wife) some great tips and tricks on our own phones. <span style="color: #134f5c;">He is also the protagonist of the subject for this blog post.</span></div>
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- My 13 year old son saved up money to buy his own iPod (which already seems outdated) and is in the iPad group at his middle school. He finds the most funny things on YouTube!</div>
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- My 11 year old daughter is <i>also</i> on the iPad team at the middle school (she was also in that 'pilot' class at the elementary school last year). She already has cooler and more productive apps on her iPad than I think I'll ever have.</div>
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Back to the oldest child - his head was buried so deep in his phone and he kept spouting out these random questions ... so I asked him (when he came up for air) what all the fuss was about ... </div>
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<b><span style="color: #351c75; font-size: large;">And that's when the addiction began.</span></b></div>
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Granted<span style="color: #b45f06;"> <b>it's been less than 48 hours that I've been 'hooked'</b></span> but I downloaded the free app for Trivia Crack and began competing against my oldest sons, my wife, my buddy Tony, some young men (scouts) I know from church, my brother, a few work friends, my niece, and even a random game (but that was the first game it made me play - I didn't challenge that opponent again). I have no idea if it is impressive at all, but I'm already at level 34 or something, which is almost at the top of the list of all my friends who are playing.</div>
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I'd feel guilty about it, but it's really an educational game (insert whatever sarcastic remark you have here). I actually study a little about the concept of <b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamification">gamification</a></span></b> in my newer line of work, so I can actually chalk up some of this as <i>research</i> (although not as much as my brother-in-law Dennis, whose job often truly is to play and test games).</div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #990000;">Bottom line: it can be a blessing <i>and</i> a curse to ask questions of your children!</span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b></div>
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Addictions to games are probably not a good thing. I thought of the lyrics to the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4uqGVvGT5g"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Need You Tonight"</span></b></a> by INXS and with only a few minor word changes, the song is a perfect fit for a trivia game blog post.</div>
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<i>Your moves are so raw ... you're one of my kind ... I need you tonight 'cause I'm not sleeping ... there's something about you (game) that makes me sweat ... what do you think? - I can't think at all ... </i>and finally<i> ... I'm lonely!</i> :)</div>
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Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-63746038658442848672015-01-02T20:05:00.000-07:002015-01-03T20:34:30.738-07:00When Is It Okay To Shoot Your Kids ?It's not often you can find a board or card game that can easily accommodate an <i>odd</i> number of players. It is also not easy to <b><span style="color: #783f04;">find a game that can accommodate 6 or 7 player</span></b>s - at least not one that I have the patience for.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.dvgiochi.com/giochi/bang/gallery/bang02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.dvgiochi.com/giochi/bang/gallery/bang02.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>I forget exactly who we learned about the game <b><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">"Bang"</span></b> from, but as soon as they remind me I will thank them. <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">It's been a great game to play with our family</span></b> of 9 - yes, those keeping track will realize that the youngest two (ages 2 and 4 at the moment) can't really comprehend the game ... but I also mentioned in the first paragraph that I was referring to game for 6 to 7 players so <i>do the math</i>.<br />
<br />
The concept of the game is fairly straightforward: <b><span style="color: #0b5394;">try to be the last person alive.</span></b><br />
The Sheriff may have a deputy (in games with 6 or more players).<br />
The Outlaws (at least 2 are in play with games of 4 or more) just want the Sheriff dead.<br />
The Renegade can only win if the Outlaws are dead <i>before</i> the Sheriff.<br />
<br />
The twist is that no one knows for sure who anyone is - except everyone knows who the Sheriff is ... but he gets an extra life (bullet) as compensation.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Best of all, there's no rhyme or reason to winning <i>every</i> time.</span></b> It is equally difficult to win regardless of which role you draw. There are certainly strategies that are more effective, but there's a decent amount of luck involved ... and the games play pretty quickly (30-45 minutes at most).<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
You might be thinking I'd use the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRgcwT9X2J8"><b><span style="color: blue;">"I Shot The Sheriff"</span></b></a> by Eric Clapton, but I'm actually featuring the recent pop hit <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YswhUHH6Ufc"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Bang Bang"</span></b></a> by Nicki Minaj, Jessie J, and Ariana Grande - for two reasons: the song is quite catchy and the title just works with this post. Please refrain from pointing out the obvious non-family nature of the lyrics in that song. I never said I listened to it while <i>playing</i> games with my kids!<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-3353786592047468192015-01-01T20:25:00.000-07:002015-01-03T20:32:10.721-07:00What Will You Do THIS Year ?<a href="https://leadershipfreak.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/key-to-success.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://leadershipfreak.files.wordpress.com/2014/12/key-to-success.jpg" width="199" /></a>I recently read a blog post from my favorite Leadership blogger (linked <a href="http://leadershipfreak.wordpress.com/2014/12/30/13-questions-that-eliminate-clutter-and-create-clarity/">HERE</a>) wherein he wrote briefly about how we approach each new year. Of course <b><span style="color: #e06666;">I love that he suggests using questions to improve ourselves</span></b> (you know how I love questions!), but it also reminded me that it only takes the proper mental attitude to <b>begin anew</b>.<br />
I've gone back and forth many times on my commitment to blogging (among many other arguably more worthwhile activities). But reviewing this post (and reflecting on the questions Dan suggests) reminds me that <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">our efforts do not always have to produce excellent or even noticeable results.</span></b><br />
The key is to keep trying - keep pushing ourselves to improve - keep the strategies that work and replace those that don't.<br />
<br />
In the end we'll have plenty to feel good about and we'll likely remember very few of the stumbles or low points.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #0b5394;">Cheers to your new year's goals, whatever they may be!</span></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
As you make your plans and goals for 2015, I would like to help you project ahead to the end of the year and visualize yourself singing along to the words in OneRepublic's song <span style="color: blue; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3k009TIxQc8"><span style="color: blue;"><b>"I Lived"</b></span></a> </span> The tune is certainly catchy, the message is meaningful (if not overstated), but it seems a fitting anthem for setting goals to challenge yourself in the coming year. <b><span style="color: #e06666;">Filled with repeated statements of <i>hope</i> as a theme, I LOVE this song!</span></b><br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-49749243096899973362014-12-09T19:45:00.004-07:002014-12-09T19:45:43.875-07:00Do You Like You ?<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
Today's post is inspired by a song by Colbie Caillat titled <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8pu71k-K7mw"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Try"</span></b></a><br />
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The song itself has a strong enough message that there is some risk in my <i>try</i>ing to add anything to it as an explanation. Take a moment to listen to it and focus on the lyrics.<br />
<br />
No really, do it. The rest of this post can wait.<br />
<a href="http://www.searchquotes.com/sof/images/picture_quotes/103479_20130420_083513_19587_483127178413090_1143536524_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.searchquotes.com/sof/images/picture_quotes/103479_20130420_083513_19587_483127178413090_1143536524_n.jpg" height="200" width="196" /></a><br />
...<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
...<br />
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Okay. Did you hear the part that says <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><i>you don't have to try so hard</i>?</span></b> Did you really stop and think about the actions you are taking <i>just</i> to impress others whose opinions shouldn't matter so much? If not, you really should.<br />
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000;">There is a time and a place for challenging ourselves to make changes - but it should NEVER be to impress someone else!</span></b><br />
<br />
I will be keeping this song nearby when my daughters get to the age when they are more openly influenced by peer pressure. I will <i>force</i> each of my children to focus on the message of this song. And I will make sure they understand that <b><span style="color: red;">the last line will always be true.</span></b> Not only will I always <i>love</i> my children - I will like them for who they are, no matter which path they choose for themselves. I will always <i>want</i> the best for them and I <i>will</i> challenge them to consider <i>why</i> they are making certain choices ... but <b><span style="color: #3d85c6; font-size: large;">I will ALWAYS be there for them!</span></b><br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-2131896469806639082014-12-08T21:37:00.001-07:002014-12-08T21:37:28.032-07:00What Dreams Is This Catching ?<a href="http://www.seekingshama.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/dream-catcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.seekingshama.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/dream-catcher.jpg" height="149" width="200" /></a>While driving the other day, I noticed the car next to me had a <span style="color: #0b5394;"><i>dream catcher</i> hanging from the rear view mirror</span>. I'm not opposed to (or in favor of, for that matter) the concept of a <i>dream catcher</i> - if it works for you, then good for you.<br />
<br />
My concern is ...<br />
why do you have this <b><i><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">IN YOUR CAR ?!</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
Seems like you shouldn't be <i>dreaming</i> or even <i>day</i>dreaming <u>in your car</u> ...<br />
<br />
And even if it's just for your passenger's dreams, I have to wonder if allowing them to sleep somewhere <i>other</i> than a CAR might be enough to improve their dreams without the need for spiritual assistance.<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
If you listen to the first few sentences of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-DmAh0dObI"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Dream Weaver"</span></b></a> by Gary Wright <i>while</i> picturing the singer in front of the driver's seat of his car - it really kinda takes on a whole new, even creepier (if you think the song is creepy to begin with) sort of meaning. Other lyrics like 'I believe we can reach the border <i>light</i>' and 'meet me on the other side' certainly could conjure images of a person asleep at the wheel. It's a <i>dream catcher</i> not a <i>car</i> catcher buddy!<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-82234993996994290522014-12-05T21:44:00.003-07:002014-12-05T21:44:31.936-07:00Where's The Rest Of Him/Her ?Friday night. Short picture post. A box I recently received at work had the sticker affixed to the top side of it. Considering my last name is 'Case' it <i>also</i> had <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">'free blog idea'</span></b> written all over it too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7C89opQqJf1wBbb-_PX-qUmeBhgHRBJsyFJLQC-Cn_Aea4306ukDM10DHYaagZChExwKVUeRSUy5y44lj4KWjX6m4Eq_QI9FUs7bdt15RLsMBPJEUy_Jqv0nTbQyWGqoeVdsyAJSWgoM/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7C89opQqJf1wBbb-_PX-qUmeBhgHRBJsyFJLQC-Cn_Aea4306ukDM10DHYaagZChExwKVUeRSUy5y44lj4KWjX6m4Eq_QI9FUs7bdt15RLsMBPJEUy_Jqv0nTbQyWGqoeVdsyAJSWgoM/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B013.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #45818e;">The joke caption goes like this <span style="font-size: large;">(pick your favorite)</span>:</span></b><br />
- What do you mean <i>some assembly required</i>?!<br />
- This would have been a great sticker to announce a pregnancy in our family.<br />
- That's the last time I order from Ebay!<br />
- Alright, who drank the rest of them and thought this sticker made it 'okay' ?<br />
- I thought I was the only Case that was one-sided in my opinions<br />
- Wait, where's box 2 of 2?!<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
Special deal, today only: Create your own tie-in for the featured song - enjoy <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oh2LWWORoiM"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Habits (Stay High)"</span></b></a> by Tove Lo.<br />
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PSA: I don't endorse <i>staying high</i> unless it's a natural one.<br />
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BTW, PSA stands for Public Service Announcement.<br />
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Also, BTW stands for by the way<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-2371970361820698092014-12-04T19:58:00.006-07:002014-12-04T19:58:56.566-07:00Do You Break The Rules ?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJq-2IlzbZuU0qB_3ecW_xl1ZbbJ0uLJAVLEmesIeC-hjBmt6oFtTpCRANiRMV8fn3dylWBjUWYd74ThfoXGoTtS8ROq4HQlBdf1_FzvQJ79sf7_63PnYkb3YJnC5zWW9p3X73yuIe5cs/s1600/Paper+towel+rebel.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJq-2IlzbZuU0qB_3ecW_xl1ZbbJ0uLJAVLEmesIeC-hjBmt6oFtTpCRANiRMV8fn3dylWBjUWYd74ThfoXGoTtS8ROq4HQlBdf1_FzvQJ79sf7_63PnYkb3YJnC5zWW9p3X73yuIe5cs/s1600/Paper+towel+rebel.JPG" height="400" width="298" /></a>Anyone familiar with <b><span style="color: #134f5c;">internet memes</span></b> has seen images of people doing things in contradiction to signs, which are <b><span style="color: #cc0000;">arguably NOT that rebellious</span></b>:<br />
- standing in front of a 'No Standing Here' sign<br />
- touching something under a 'Do not touch' sign and so on.<br />
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The picture to the right is my entry into the silly <b><span style="color: #38761d;"><i>'I too like to live dangerously'</i> </span></b>phenomenon. I noticed the instructions on a paper towel dispenser and couldn't resist the temptation to snap a quick picture of myself <i><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">breaking the rules!</span></b></i><br />
<i><br /></i>
Silly? Yes.<br />
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Worthy of a picture with a huge dark X marked through it? <b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">No way!</span></b><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
Similar to these <i>non</i>-rebel behaviors, the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh1zWWWY22M"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Rebel Heart"</span></b></a> by The Corrs is <i>not</i> a particularly rebellious song. But I like how the music builds and think this song fits perfectly with this post idea.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-1710063182091011492014-12-03T21:45:00.002-07:002014-12-03T21:45:30.559-07:00How Many Stomps Was That ?<b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Around this time of year people generally think about traditions more frequently</span></b>. It's likely influenced by the holidays that bring families together (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's) but whatever the reason, it is quite interesting to ask questions and find out about <span style="color: blue;"><i>how</i> certain traditions came to be</span>.<br />
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In this case, I'm not actually referring to a <i>holiday</i> tradition, but rather, one that has been passed from my family of origin to my <i>current</i> family. <span style="color: #783f04; font-size: x-small;">(Don't read too much into that <i><b>current family</b></i> designation - I'm not seeking a <i><b>future</b></i> family different from my <b><i>current</i> wife and kids</b> - but families grow and shift and change so I'm just clarifying this tradition exists in our home in <i>this</i> family setup).</span><br />
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Growing up in different homes <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-small;">(because my family moved several times, not for some other reason - <b>stop making me digress</b>!)</span> there was one common style of our houses - <b><u>we always had a basement</u></b>. In fact, in most cases <span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;">(no pun intended - and if you don't stop interrupting me this is gonna be a really long post!)</span>, almost all of us kids' rooms were in the basement. This was the circumstance that led to our creation of a communication method between the people upstairs and those in the basement. <b><span style="color: #bf9000; font-size: large;">Stomping.</span></b><br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTxzDVcYC-CHa0kAUhEuKUx3RIWQJRwJquBY91tU-ZGWdw9E46fCDc82DxMj3nreXhMLJuCAI1lMqNkLYjt3AaEYC1rT9EtMgTJnck2BYDdaSQuw6YbJqGThiBCdTCxAZsDu6MyIOhkM/s1600/150.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTxzDVcYC-CHa0kAUhEuKUx3RIWQJRwJquBY91tU-ZGWdw9E46fCDc82DxMj3nreXhMLJuCAI1lMqNkLYjt3AaEYC1rT9EtMgTJnck2BYDdaSQuw6YbJqGThiBCdTCxAZsDu6MyIOhkM/s1600/150.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spencer sometimes uses boots<br />to help him 'stomp'</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Depending on the number of 'stomps' from someone <i>upstairs</i> there was a different expectation of those <i>downstairs </i>in our homes. </span></b> Two stomps meant the phone was for you (remember this was before cell phones existed - even before cordless phones if you go back far enough). Three stomps meant 'come upstairs.' For a brief period, four stomps meant someone was at the door for you - but that quickly proved ineffective <span style="font-size: x-small;">(people at the door seemed to get really worried when they heard loud 'thumps' in a rhythmic pattern <i>right after</i> they rang the doorbell or knocked)</span>. Along those same lines is the reasoning by which one stomp never retained an assigned value - sometimes people fall or something heavy drops. This was sometimes used to indicate those <i>downstairs</i> occupants were being too loud - but then, since <i>we</i> were that loud, we never really heard that lone stomp, so the only effect was <i>upstairs</i> folks getting sore feet and more angry.<br />
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Here's how the <i>record</i> of the House of Case reads on this subject:<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj673PGs6iRgHrGN_6b5hbDWMtVadzv_BiTzn0qDN6gXTVtgaW1TWH98muYc22o23ncinwYzfIJ9sSX7bQWVt1REP1aXWyPVC7VesYbpkizevU5U3o_BaqosyAGITuwBihD6aNeeo-l3WI/s1600/152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj673PGs6iRgHrGN_6b5hbDWMtVadzv_BiTzn0qDN6gXTVtgaW1TWH98muYc22o23ncinwYzfIJ9sSX7bQWVt1REP1aXWyPVC7VesYbpkizevU5U3o_BaqosyAGITuwBihD6aNeeo-l3WI/s1600/152.JPG" height="320" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sometimes the boots win</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>14. And it came to pass that the </i>current <i>Casa de Case household uses a similar stomping method in this day and age. Yea, the wisdom of a generation before hath been passed on to the betterment of the lives in this generation.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>15. And the use in this location was like unto this: one stomp indicates a message of 'quiet down', which is effective in this generation despite it's previous failure; two stomps has no discernible message, but is used as a more serious version of 'quiet down' should the need arise; three stomps indicates a message of 'come upstairs now' and is used frequently and with great success, especially when the stomps occur directly over the room or location wherein the </i>downstairs<i> person is present.</i></span><br />
<i></i><br /><i></i>
It ain't high tech and it takes some explanation when guests come over, but I dare say <i>many</i> other families have picked up on and use themselves this tradition of communication. Feel free to join those who see the value of this - but I don't recommend it in the workplace or an apartment setting. :)<br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
I don't know all the history and background of the song, but <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rifhroClGI"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Stompin' At The Savoy"</span></b></a> by Benny Goodman and his big band has always been a favorite jazzy song of mine. If you can't figure out the tie in with today's post then just enjoy the music (and maybe contemplate your capacity to apply basic critical thinking skills - I think this is a 3rd or 4th grade lesson).<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-89542318923732729922014-12-02T16:22:00.001-07:002014-12-02T16:22:25.455-07:00Why Are You Limping ?Today at work many people asked me the title question of this post. <span style="color: #674ea7;">Despite my desire to respond sarcastically</span> and act all offended like <em>"This IS how I walk! Why are you picking on me?!"</em> I chose the discretionary path and just fessed up to my injury.<br />
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I sprained my left ankle yesterday playing basketball. This is rather unimportant in and of itself, but the way in which the injury occurred gave me an idea for a blog post.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;">What age do you perceive yourself to be?</span></strong></div>
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We hear the expression <em>'She's an old soul.'</em> We know people who are <em>'wiser than their years'</em> or deal with people who are <em>'old enough to know better.'</em> But <strong><span style="color: #bf9000;">I think each one of us views ourselves as a certain age or at a certain stage in life.</span></strong><br />
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I have a friend who has always <em>seemed</em> like he is nearing retirement. It's not just his hair color (frosty white) or his complexion (his face has lots of wrinkles), but his mannerisms and activity level. He just <em>seems</em> old.<br />
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I myself, think that I am still in my late teens or early twenties. <strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">I engage in stupid behaviors</span></strong> (eating ice cream for dinner, staying up way past my bedtime). I look at <em>middle-aged</em> (40 or older) people and wonder how they have any energy for anything. I use slang words and listen to Top 40 music (sometimes). And I play basketball with reckless abandon and expend much more energy and effort than someone <em>MY</em> age should.<br />
<br />
The reality is too harsh to write here, but suffice it to say that I am NOT that young (nor is my friend <em>that</em> old). In fact, <strong><span style="color: #45818e;">I am very close to what I used to consider <em>middle-age</em></span></strong> and that truth stares at me in the mirror each morning. I find myself wondering things like 'what happened?' or 'how did I get here?' or 'when did I start growing hair <em>there</em>?!' I don't like these questions. I don't want to believe it is happening. So instead I hustle for my own rebound on a shot I shouldn't have missed, and in the process land my <em>slower</em> foot on an opponent. <em>TWIST</em>. ouch. Game over ... <span style="color: #3d85c6;">at least for a few days. :)</span><br />
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<br />
<strong><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></strong><br />
It's not a new song any more, but I did recently hear<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5yaoMjaAmE"><strong><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Human"</span></strong></a> by Christina Perri<strong> </strong>on the radio and it felt appropriate for this post about the fragility of our physical bodies. I think it's <em>human</em> to play hard, but it's also <em>human</em> to forget that we're not teenagers any more.<br />
<br />
...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-50120743284727805972014-12-01T06:37:00.002-07:002014-12-01T06:37:51.170-07:00No Shave November or Movember ?There are two types of people in this world:<br />
<div>
- Those who celebrate <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">No Shave November</span></b></div>
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- And those who celebrate <b><span style="color: #783f04;">Movember</span></b></div>
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<div>
At work this past month, 4 of the 5 men in my work group participated (albeit with no rules or official invitations or anything formal at all) in No Shave November. Everyone eventually went their own way with it (one guy <i>trimmed</i> his beard - both around the neck and on the cheeks and also the actual length of the beard throughout the month). I, personally, find that cheating - <b><span style="color: #990000;">it's not <i>'grow a neatly trimmed beard November'</i> now is it?!</span></b> - but it's also not an official event so it's hard to be bothered by various interpretations.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As a sort of homage to Movember, at least 2-3 of us have agreed to shave the raggedy beards and leave <i>just the mustache</i> for today (Monday, Dec 1st.) We're calling it <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">'Mustache Monday'</span></b> and we'll see if it creates a tradition.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqPuy1lxPCmwdpppV3Lxl4g-HO2UHyK0HR535U8BNr4kF4xN6ngCojgEO-YggzIQgz9Kb78gOiFrlOh54E8wC0ngZiOhBy52PGdF4P2zpwuOIWqla6HnWgLWNy95g9cT6e0kzeN2vZSM/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B070.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinqPuy1lxPCmwdpppV3Lxl4g-HO2UHyK0HR535U8BNr4kF4xN6ngCojgEO-YggzIQgz9Kb78gOiFrlOh54E8wC0ngZiOhBy52PGdF4P2zpwuOIWqla6HnWgLWNy95g9cT6e0kzeN2vZSM/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B070.JPG" height="200" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYh0QRN5YSHCWflNxYsDoOS37CvAjV-SKUmBttJrayHy4krrljStDjdpl7co5g35KBelQGTSIuBFx07PUuNDlponQmD7VHQ5If2t8J7h22AI7sAUbf_LGfF5lBNrVxB8kYzHTX0uE910/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYh0QRN5YSHCWflNxYsDoOS37CvAjV-SKUmBttJrayHy4krrljStDjdpl7co5g35KBelQGTSIuBFx07PUuNDlponQmD7VHQ5If2t8J7h22AI7sAUbf_LGfF5lBNrVxB8kYzHTX0uE910/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B071.JPG" height="200" width="150" /></a></div>
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So what do you favor? No Shave, Mo, or no change at all?</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b></div>
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If you don't automatically think of the 1970's when you see Movember pictures, then you're probably too young to remember those heydays of mustaches. I recently heard again the song <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voQWlL-jj5Q"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Reminiscing"</span></b></a> by the Little River Band and felt it would fit nicely here. The 11th month of the year is certainly a time for <i>reminiscing</i> of decades ago. Thankfully it's just a brief, harmless revisit of this terrible facial hair style.</div>
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...</div>
Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-34861823595370632092014-09-23T06:56:00.000-06:002014-09-29T06:44:58.063-06:00Where's The Door Handle ?<a href="http://media.ed.edmunds-media.com/pictures/VEHICLE/2012/Chevrolet/2012.chevrolet.sonic.20376541-E.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media.ed.edmunds-media.com/pictures/VEHICLE/2012/Chevrolet/2012.chevrolet.sonic.20376541-E.jpg" height="201" width="320" /></a><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">While driving I often notice new or different vehicle styles.</span></b> This is likely from my days spent processing vehicle addition transactions on auto insurance policies, where I had to be reasonably well-versed on different makes and models of various automobiles.<br />
<br />
Today I noticed the rear doors on the 4-door Chevy Sonic and <b><span style="color: #0b5394;">couldn't immediately see the door handles.</span></b> At a stop light, when I finally noticed where they were ... I felt like we were in the future.<br />
<br />
They are up on the top, back portion of the door, just to the side of the window ... <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">weird, but also kinda cool.</span></b><br />
<br />
<strong><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></strong><br />
Since it's kind of impossible to link a song from the future to this post, I've decided to go back a few decades and share <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWaT7gJxvfs"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Open Your Heart"</span></b></a> by Madonna. There's not really any good songs that come to mind about opening car doors with a unique door handle.<br />
<br />
...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-17154302180851146972014-09-22T06:46:00.002-06:002014-09-22T06:59:00.784-06:00What's Your Favorite Season ?I wondered this question aloud on my drive to work the other morning, not entirely sure who I was asking it to. Being alone in the car, I figured it best to answer myself, after all, <b><span style="color: #351c75;">no one wants to give the silent treatment to themselves.</span></b><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2oJ4YR9PhfDxiI8V3HzMFwBQ3rjci0-aZLf0d2xPPQQy-rv-c1a_UnIuKFNaWyewbUKj8l9m2FYURD1UGoYecwn8iGx2nFICv76te1IbQJ1Y9c5iw66uOtPGoZeU4dW7WzE1xkgB63c/s1600/Fall+2013+front+leaves.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj2oJ4YR9PhfDxiI8V3HzMFwBQ3rjci0-aZLf0d2xPPQQy-rv-c1a_UnIuKFNaWyewbUKj8l9m2FYURD1UGoYecwn8iGx2nFICv76te1IbQJ1Y9c5iw66uOtPGoZeU4dW7WzE1xkgB63c/s1600/Fall+2013+front+leaves.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a>I began by explaining that I was super excited about <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Fall or Autumn</span></b> and explaining several reasons why it <b><span style="color: #b45f06;"><i>must</i> be my favorite season.</span></b> The nights are getting cooler. The house doesn't get as hot during the day. The colors begin to change on leaves in the trees. Pesky bugs that take over whole sections of the yard begin to hibernate in their miniature caves. Weeds miraculously stop growing like, well, weeds. Fall sports begin, including football and basketball, while baseball starts getting serious. And for those that love clothes, it's time for an all new wardrobe, or as is the case with most common folk, a rediscovery of the wardrobe you stored away for the summer. <b><span style="color: #783f04;">Ahhhh yes, Fall is the best</span></b> ... except ...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft7B5hyphenhyphen3S6RsposnrMFcfNo-hrYLJZnDMl7qPcV5uobI78zBpZl6LnKBgUhXYjgAWc1XxUpbUUSIuFbEdIPLrHzGAkb_loMgONwIApEbhtpLKeozJns1QgpFIvI4XPee1HWr8UB49oFU/s1600/lawn+frost.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjft7B5hyphenhyphen3S6RsposnrMFcfNo-hrYLJZnDMl7qPcV5uobI78zBpZl6LnKBgUhXYjgAWc1XxUpbUUSIuFbEdIPLrHzGAkb_loMgONwIApEbhtpLKeozJns1QgpFIvI4XPee1HWr8UB49oFU/s1600/lawn+frost.JPG" height="149" width="200" /></a><b><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Winter is really cool too</span></b>, no pun intended. There's just something about the first snow fall that gets me excited about the upcoming end-of-year months. Then of course there are the holidays where we give thanks, celebrate our Savior's birth, and ring in the new year with fun and frivolity. Hot cocoa on a chilly morning and wrapping up in blankets and/or cuddling with a loved one to keep warm. Even seeing your breath in the air as you scrape ice off car windows can be downright delightful. Yeah, <b><span style="color: #0b5394;">I guess Winter might be my favorite</span></b> ... however ...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dgnf3AvzGb2t7nTPMzv2t6tfxsXdUMSAHi_bCMTX14t66-hDNjivvrSj54Dzmp9-faWPuLRunOzDeguCqOwOW-9RLtAQVgyJ_eqEx3WgePou-Mk7kAx5YD9WAnz9ce620pg0WVA__Q0/s1600/Flower+Close+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9dgnf3AvzGb2t7nTPMzv2t6tfxsXdUMSAHi_bCMTX14t66-hDNjivvrSj54Dzmp9-faWPuLRunOzDeguCqOwOW-9RLtAQVgyJ_eqEx3WgePou-Mk7kAx5YD9WAnz9ce620pg0WVA__Q0/s1600/Flower+Close+1.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a><b><span style="color: #6aa84f;">Spring is absolutely amazing!</span></b> After the eventual doldrums of a long, hard winter set in, Spring comes roaring in, bringing with it new growth and eternal hope for brighter days. That first unseasonably warm day when you can travel without a jacket feels like a miracle. It is impossible not to notice that the days are getting longer and even if you hate cleaning, the 'Spring' kind always feels great to get done. I really love that first <i>sweep out the garage</i> of each year and the kids love that their bikes are rescued from their hanging hooks above the cars. <b><span style="color: #38761d;">Spring sure scores a lot of points</span></b> ... but ...<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZKMSwnBo-afT6hxKSi4WOy4CKP2HHtVoN9bh0eX06elpYeqyxCSgQxMNWTu97-l0FyDQN-wMD1Y6-QB6_cgL7pN7pP8oR32g8RsN5ZoNQ23jjg2IgrwP0yGj_-i2QPwTPJWB5Fid1H8/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoZKMSwnBo-afT6hxKSi4WOy4CKP2HHtVoN9bh0eX06elpYeqyxCSgQxMNWTu97-l0FyDQN-wMD1Y6-QB6_cgL7pN7pP8oR32g8RsN5ZoNQ23jjg2IgrwP0yGj_-i2QPwTPJWB5Fid1H8/s1600/Josh+Sr's%2BPhone%2B107.JPG" height="200" width="149" /></a><b style="background-color: #ffd966;">That brings us back to Summer</b>, and doggone it if those dog days aren't something spectacular! Break out the swim gear and the suntan lotion. Get ready to feel the warmth of the sun on your face as you ride bikes or take leisurely strolls in the late but still lit evening hours. <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">Simple pleasures</span></b> like a glass of refreshing ice water or laying in the fresh cut grass of the front lawn remind us that life is just wonderful. And the backyard grilling of hamburgers and hot dogs coupled with the excitement of fireworks, <b><span style="color: #bf9000;">often all season long, are unmatched.</span></b><br />
<br />
So, at length, I came to this conclusion: <b><span style="color: #e06666;">my favorite season is</span></b> whatever season we are in OR whatever season is coming up very soon. In that sense, <b><span style="color: #e06666;">I may love the <i>changing</i> of seasons more than I enjoy any one particular time of year.</span></b><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
It would be a near-blasphemous error to not feature a song <i>by</i> the Four Seasons in this post, so here is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liyiT_DGREA"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"December, 1963 (Oh, What A Night)"</span></b></a> in all it's disco-sounding glory. I very much dislike disco, but I've heard a few renditions of this tune and just dig every one, disco-themed or not.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-20619942287524209422014-09-16T20:58:00.000-06:002014-09-17T09:05:02.946-06:00Who Do You Root For ?<a href="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/5f/66/1e/5f661eb646d1cf56756f9eedda127699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://media-cache-ec0.pinimg.com/236x/5f/66/1e/5f661eb646d1cf56756f9eedda127699.jpg" height="198" width="200" /></a>Today I was reflecting on the title question above. But not from a sports or competition perspective. <b><span style="color: #38761d;">I was considering the implications in the game of life.</span></b><br />
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<b>I root for:</b><br />
- <span style="color: red;">people who do the work</span><br />
- companies that care<br />
- goodwill, peace, and charity<br />
<br />
<b>I root for:</b><br />
- success to find individuals who have earned it<br />
- my children to have the strength and commitment to overcome challenges<br />
- <span style="color: #0b5394;">anyone, anywhere who wants to learn and grow and change for the better</span><br />
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<b>I DO NOT root for:</b><br />
- people who seek first to take the credit<br />
- companies that are all about the 'bottom line'<br />
- negativity or finding someone to blame<br />
<br />
<b>I DO NOT root for:</b><br />
- success to find individuals who just think they deserve it<br />
- <span style="color: #674ea7;">my children to be <em>better </em>than other people's kids</span><br />
- anyone, anywhere who refuses to learn or grow or change<br />
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<b><span style="color: #bf9000;">I rejoice in achievements and accolades for those who truly deserve it</span></b>, while secretly being glad when failure finds those who don't. I do not wish or hope for bad things to happen to people, but <span style="color: #134f5c;">I reserve my rooting for those people that are choosing to do the right things whether anyone else is watching or not.</span> I've recently seen several examples of people quietly, almost secretly, doing great things for others while trying not to draw attention to their efforts. I find myself taking note and then cheering them on, indiscreetly of course - <i>go (person's name)! </i>Thank you to each of you who have done this! <b><span style="color: #e06666;">You are inspiring and I truly believe life will reward you for your choices!</span></b><br />
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<strong><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></strong><br />
I really like the song<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpbgUVPP3DU"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">"In The House Of Stone And Light"</span></strong></a> by Martin Page and so it's my choice for today's post. The artist was someone I rooted for, but I also just love the sounds in this tune.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-25260067251573524832014-09-15T06:48:00.002-06:002014-09-15T06:48:45.822-06:00What Is This Feeling ?<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOcd7xLAmsPlZUOgMbb2Rm32mBS5hA9Btg6agqn5oNKz1UHLdv2wrOfgNIt5iDeDr0kEzQ_FcKpJZ8rQVUguqd12Pxpcl2CxowYw2NV7OQnMBtggZSAbXZIBCk-tDNwU00eMCXWlRqCY/s1600/Sunrise+at+Graymont.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOcd7xLAmsPlZUOgMbb2Rm32mBS5hA9Btg6agqn5oNKz1UHLdv2wrOfgNIt5iDeDr0kEzQ_FcKpJZ8rQVUguqd12Pxpcl2CxowYw2NV7OQnMBtggZSAbXZIBCk-tDNwU00eMCXWlRqCY/s1600/Sunrise+at+Graymont.JPG" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">What a glorious sunrise!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lately I just can't shake this feeling that <b><span style="color: #e69138;">something is coming</span></b>. It's a feeling like it is something I've been preparing for my whole life without even realizing it. I have no expectations or even guesses about what it might be, but the signs seem to be everywhere. To be more specific, <span style="color: #3d85c6;">I find myself being drawn more toward things of a spiritual or soulful nature.</span> I've been seeing more things through a different set of eyes or perhaps just from a new perspective. I am sure I will have failings. I am certain to struggle, in fact this is what some of the signs have amounted to, but I feel a peacefulness or even quiet strength. It is a great feeling and I hope I can keep it.<br />
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<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
This morning, while driving 5 young men to Seminary, I heard a song for the first time and it really echoed what I've been feeling. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXI0B4iMLuU"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Greater"</span></b></a> by Mercy Me is a great tune for a Monday morning. The infectious drum beats certainly would be enough to pump anyone up, but the message behind the words is equally, if not more, inspiring. <b><span style="color: #bf9000;"><i>Greater is the one living inside of me than he who is living in the world.</i> </span></b> This line itself speaks to a truth I know and hold dear to my soul: I am a child of God and He loves me.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-2831444379442866972014-09-02T07:40:00.000-06:002014-09-18T07:47:56.681-06:00How Does All This End Up In The Laundry ?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNHBuu5tImmOp8n_nTMOZclLbYy4glpGwiaUfLyMT_Wt-H8MLtvKyvGx5iHV5thFC0Z8cjmDLfHIEnajjIMDvRkQpbTRJaCzy3T_rlhlZGPiycjpP9bi-LP4vmJSilJfMS8IA5hlgPdc/s1600/Items+saved+from+laundry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwNHBuu5tImmOp8n_nTMOZclLbYy4glpGwiaUfLyMT_Wt-H8MLtvKyvGx5iHV5thFC0Z8cjmDLfHIEnajjIMDvRkQpbTRJaCzy3T_rlhlZGPiycjpP9bi-LP4vmJSilJfMS8IA5hlgPdc/s1600/Items+saved+from+laundry.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b><u><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day:</span></u></b><br />
While it is true that the above photo represents items 'saved' from the washer and dryer over the preceding 3 or so months, I don't think it makes it any less questionable how some of these things were found in kids' pants pockets.<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">And this was just the downstairs laundry</span></b> - yes, in a house of 9 people, dual washer/dryer areas are a virtual necessity!<br />
Today's song is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qA6K-ouivhQ"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">"Nothing Lasts Forever"</span></b></a> by Maroon 5, because it reminds me that the time is not far away when my kids will be grown up and I won't have the humor that comes from rescuing their 'prized possessions' before they get <i>washed away</i>.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5971810779283423682.post-45075774605044316592014-08-26T21:58:00.000-06:002014-08-27T22:06:04.160-06:00How Was Scout Camp ?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lcSTiTRAm2NcD5uyOHqeG4J3AssY6adWZ8IbN9KpgTG2pw_Bz8Rk-0U1RZYszs57gjbFK5ZM6PTv62j3WnxjoaIXP_pfjDRnq3ct_nOHOeAOz1XeoBqSXFWMx0DeyPF8fChtLGD1bWk/s1600/Scout+Camp+2014+190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2lcSTiTRAm2NcD5uyOHqeG4J3AssY6adWZ8IbN9KpgTG2pw_Bz8Rk-0U1RZYszs57gjbFK5ZM6PTv62j3WnxjoaIXP_pfjDRnq3ct_nOHOeAOz1XeoBqSXFWMx0DeyPF8fChtLGD1bWk/s1600/Scout+Camp+2014+190.JPG" height="239" width="320" /></a>Today's post is basically just a link. But a link that took significantly more time to compose than any blog post I've written before.<br />
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It's more of a labor of love for me than anything I expect anyone else to appreciate as much as I do. The video got some great laughs tonight, and that's plenty fine for me.<br />
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If you have 16 1/2 minutes to get an answer to the blog post question, please click on this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NfIgAQeLDs&list=UUpzN9G9ulUTKrZRUMh-s2dA"><b><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">LINK</span></b></a> and you can enjoy the video I put together for our Boy Scout Court of Honor this evening.<br />
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The songs used in the video will count as my <u style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Song Of The Day</span></u> for today. But since none of them was used in its entirety, you'll just have to ask me if you want to know artist or name for any of them.<br />
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...Joshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14502491477202401731noreply@blogger.com0