Two Choices
At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question:
'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does, is done with perfection. Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?'
The audience was stilled by the query.
The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'
Then he told the following story:
Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.
I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.'
Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted.
In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.
In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.
In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again...
Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.
At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game?
Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.
However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact.
The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed.
The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay.
As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.
The game would now be over.
The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman.
Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game.
Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates.
Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first! Run to first!'
Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base.
He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled.
Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!'
Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base.
By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball. The smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team.
He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head.
Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.
All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay'
Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third! Shay, run to third!'
As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!'
Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team
'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world.'
Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!
I have received this a few times over the years. I don't know if this is true or not. Lets just say that I hope and want it to be.
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010
Simple Man
I used to say that I was just a simple man. People who knew me looked at me side-ways. They knew me better. Or so they thought. I have been not simple as I am now. And I am getting simpler? If that makes sense? Part is because of what I consider natural occurrences. Things that are going on that I have no control. Like riding my bike all over. Not necessarily because I like it. I have found I do like it, but it didn't start that way. It was out of necessity and a way to save money.
My previous life is like that of someone else now. That role is over. That person gone. I wasn't simple; I was but there was a lot built on it. Like a foundation. It was built pretty good if I say so. My foundation was that of the land. My family's name: Herring. The good Missouri land and sky. Hometown of Glasgow. Then my awakening if you will. Kemper. Those are the supports, that all else can be built on. But at the base I am still a simple country boy. You see, growing up I had 3 TV channels, 720 acres of farm land to play and explore on. I had to make my own entertainment. If I was hungry I learned to cook. I can mend with needle and thread, as that's what we did on the farm. We also recycled before it was fashionable as that's what you did. You use everything. We grew vegetables and ate the animals we raised, caught or hunted. And at night, the sky was black that you could see a million stars and also the lights in the distance seemed like you could walk and touch them, they seemed close. In the distant you could hear the train whistle from the tracks near Salisbury. And then watch the planes fly over head.
At Kemper it was similar-the planes, the train. The lights. But also the feeling of belonging. And it was simple there. No TV in the rooms. You had a TV room, with certain hours you could watch. No computers then. So you actually talked to people in person. Or read a book. Or threw a Frisbee or catch with a baseball. You made relationships that lasted. And these two were added to my foundation.
I know whats it like to have a lot of room. You want to fill it up or you fill it up with stuff. See; what I did was, since I lived so far out and away from things, I wanted to make sure my friends, when they came out, were entertained. I was seduced that they need things to be entertained. But here was Schrodinger's Cat. Yes, they liked it. I had a stocked library of books, movies; an assortment of toys, large house with plenty of space to sleep. Land to explore and to breath. It was a blessed time. That was then. This is now.
Anyway, I found a design of a simple home that I have much affection for. I can see using this plan for a log cabin. I would have a basement and maybe a loft above. Basements... for those who have seen tornadoes and who have the land in their blood, its almost a must. Also, a great way to keep temperatures regulated, and a nice place for storage. But, the plans are sound.
And I tried to upload the plans here, but no go. I think it said it would be about 1200 sq ft. Double that for a basement and half of that for an up stair loft/bedroom/office.
And I am listening to John Denver now. His voice is truly that of Colorado.
My previous life is like that of someone else now. That role is over. That person gone. I wasn't simple; I was but there was a lot built on it. Like a foundation. It was built pretty good if I say so. My foundation was that of the land. My family's name: Herring. The good Missouri land and sky. Hometown of Glasgow. Then my awakening if you will. Kemper. Those are the supports, that all else can be built on. But at the base I am still a simple country boy. You see, growing up I had 3 TV channels, 720 acres of farm land to play and explore on. I had to make my own entertainment. If I was hungry I learned to cook. I can mend with needle and thread, as that's what we did on the farm. We also recycled before it was fashionable as that's what you did. You use everything. We grew vegetables and ate the animals we raised, caught or hunted. And at night, the sky was black that you could see a million stars and also the lights in the distance seemed like you could walk and touch them, they seemed close. In the distant you could hear the train whistle from the tracks near Salisbury. And then watch the planes fly over head.
At Kemper it was similar-the planes, the train. The lights. But also the feeling of belonging. And it was simple there. No TV in the rooms. You had a TV room, with certain hours you could watch. No computers then. So you actually talked to people in person. Or read a book. Or threw a Frisbee or catch with a baseball. You made relationships that lasted. And these two were added to my foundation.
I know whats it like to have a lot of room. You want to fill it up or you fill it up with stuff. See; what I did was, since I lived so far out and away from things, I wanted to make sure my friends, when they came out, were entertained. I was seduced that they need things to be entertained. But here was Schrodinger's Cat. Yes, they liked it. I had a stocked library of books, movies; an assortment of toys, large house with plenty of space to sleep. Land to explore and to breath. It was a blessed time. That was then. This is now.
Anyway, I found a design of a simple home that I have much affection for. I can see using this plan for a log cabin. I would have a basement and maybe a loft above. Basements... for those who have seen tornadoes and who have the land in their blood, its almost a must. Also, a great way to keep temperatures regulated, and a nice place for storage. But, the plans are sound.
And I tried to upload the plans here, but no go. I think it said it would be about 1200 sq ft. Double that for a basement and half of that for an up stair loft/bedroom/office.
And I am listening to John Denver now. His voice is truly that of Colorado.
He sent me
This is cute I thought. And for those who understand, G is for God.
A U.S. Marine was attending a college course between missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. The professor, an avowed atheist, shocked the class one day when he walked in, looked toward the ceiling, and said loudly, "God, if you are real, then I want you to knock me off this platform. I'll give you exactly 15 minutes."
The lecture room fell silent and the professor began his lecture. Ten minutes went by and the professor proclaimed, "Here I am God - still waiting."
It got down to the last minute when the Marine stood up, walked toward the professor and threw his best punch knocking him off the platform and out cold. The Marine went back to his seat and sat down.
The other students were shocked and stunned and sat there looking on in silence. The professor came to, noticeably shaken, looked at the Marine and asked, "What the hell is the matter with you? Why did you do that?"
The Marine calmly replied, "God is busy today protecting America's soldiers who are protecting your right to behave like an idiot and say stupid stuff. So He sent me."
A U.S. Marine was attending a college course between missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. The professor, an avowed atheist, shocked the class one day when he walked in, looked toward the ceiling, and said loudly, "God, if you are real, then I want you to knock me off this platform. I'll give you exactly 15 minutes."
The lecture room fell silent and the professor began his lecture. Ten minutes went by and the professor proclaimed, "Here I am God - still waiting."
It got down to the last minute when the Marine stood up, walked toward the professor and threw his best punch knocking him off the platform and out cold. The Marine went back to his seat and sat down.
The other students were shocked and stunned and sat there looking on in silence. The professor came to, noticeably shaken, looked at the Marine and asked, "What the hell is the matter with you? Why did you do that?"
The Marine calmly replied, "God is busy today protecting America's soldiers who are protecting your right to behave like an idiot and say stupid stuff. So He sent me."
Been At Mizzou for 5 years
In the campus mail today I got a booklet from Mizzou. It is a way to pick a nice gift to thank me for being at Mizzou for 5 years. I started here on April 13, 2005. I remember it well.
2005 was a year that was slowly starting as my marriage was sliding down hill; gaining speed as time went on. At that time I lived in Boonville and had found part time work, besides being tolerated at the B & B, as a delivery driver for Dominoes in Boonville. I was applying at the University as I really wanted to get into the Mizzou system for a couple of reasons: I was pretty sure they wouldn't be going out business anytime soon, I loved Columbia and I attended Mizzou. After 52 applications for different positions there; some that I was vastly over qualified for, I had 3 interviews. My last was at the Missourian. At that time, John Nelson was in charge of the advertising department. He called me in, and we had an interesting interview. I guess I was used to standard, typical interviews. This one had questions like what was my favorite sport, and if there were only 3 minutes left in a game and my team was down by 6 points what would I do? At the time I didn't understand, but now I do. In any case, it was a nice interview (I thought) and left.
Like you are suppose to do, I called back after a week; and got voice mail. I called a week later, voice mail again. By the third week, I had a voice mail from him saying that I was good, but probably not quite right for the position, but would be good in outside sales and wished me good luck. Ok. Didn't think anything about it, as I had a stack of rejection letters from departments I had applied to, and kept applying. Anyway, 2 days later I get another voice mail message from him saying that the girl they had hired had taken a better paying job, and that if I wanted the job, it was mine. And hey, I was his second choice.
So I came in on that Wednesday, and started learning Classifieds. Within seven days, my Classified boss was fired, and I was told that "I would be handling Classifieds now." That was 5 years ago.
2005 was a year that was slowly starting as my marriage was sliding down hill; gaining speed as time went on. At that time I lived in Boonville and had found part time work, besides being tolerated at the B & B, as a delivery driver for Dominoes in Boonville. I was applying at the University as I really wanted to get into the Mizzou system for a couple of reasons: I was pretty sure they wouldn't be going out business anytime soon, I loved Columbia and I attended Mizzou. After 52 applications for different positions there; some that I was vastly over qualified for, I had 3 interviews. My last was at the Missourian. At that time, John Nelson was in charge of the advertising department. He called me in, and we had an interesting interview. I guess I was used to standard, typical interviews. This one had questions like what was my favorite sport, and if there were only 3 minutes left in a game and my team was down by 6 points what would I do? At the time I didn't understand, but now I do. In any case, it was a nice interview (I thought) and left.
Like you are suppose to do, I called back after a week; and got voice mail. I called a week later, voice mail again. By the third week, I had a voice mail from him saying that I was good, but probably not quite right for the position, but would be good in outside sales and wished me good luck. Ok. Didn't think anything about it, as I had a stack of rejection letters from departments I had applied to, and kept applying. Anyway, 2 days later I get another voice mail message from him saying that the girl they had hired had taken a better paying job, and that if I wanted the job, it was mine. And hey, I was his second choice.
So I came in on that Wednesday, and started learning Classifieds. Within seven days, my Classified boss was fired, and I was told that "I would be handling Classifieds now." That was 5 years ago.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
A Gamer's Blog
I have seen and I have wanted to be a gamer's blog for some time. Here is one that seems to be kinda old school, AND it has the best article I have ever seen on D & D from back in the day, called Confessions of a Dungeon Master. I remember when it came out in Psychology Today and I even copied that article and have shown the faded pages to others. When I opened my store, I remembered the article and there was a line in there that I loved. "The dice never lie." So true. Very glad this person published this as I could not find it and was seriously debating on having to re-type the whole thing as my copy is so faded it probably wouldn't have shown up.
Check it out.
http://delve-thedelve.blogspot.com/
Check it out.
http://delve-thedelve.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Start
I was with a friend this weekend (Dave Berry) and his girlfriend. Shes developing a new TV show which she hopes gets picked up. Telling her about some of the things that happened at Kemper and she suggested that I write them down. Have been trying to do that. But there are some things that no one will understand. Its like explaining color to someone who is blind. Part of it is explaining what went on. Another part is why we understood. Why? Easy answer; men and women who we respect were there, did the same things we did. So we understood. And we were family. Your squad, platoon or company could pick on you. But no one else. High school could pick on college, Old Boy vs New Boy. The Corps vs Admin. Kemper vs Boondogs.
Fear. People get scared from riding a roller coaster, spiders, snakes, etc. Its usually sudden sometimes and unexpected and then its over. I want to tell you about being scared for days. Not knowing. This could be akin to a time in combat. The down side: you live with a fear. Its something that you wear; you hope that no one can tell. You cry yourself to sleep sometimes. You have to be careful and keep the fear in check; a small tear in public could lead to a breakdown. You find your hands shaking. Sweat. You wonder what the tightness is. Now imagine that for hours at a time, days at a time. Courage is not conquering fear but something that allows you to push through it.
You may say that you shouldn't have to be scared. It's illegal, immoral, etc. etc. Did it happen to me? Hell yes. And for hundreds of others. Do I think it was wrong? Hell no! Why? Like I said: courage was not abolishing fear. You need fear. What this was, was learning to work through, to master. But conquer? Never. Anyone who says they are never afraid is a liar and a fool and get shunt of them fast. I still get scared. I can feel that cold feeling creeping over me at times like a mist. It lets me know that I am scared. Whatever is about to happen is something that is making me fearful. HOW I handle is very important. THATS what I learned. I was the typical boy from the farm. I had never really been scared for a continuous time. I had been scared at times, like getting on a Ferris wheel; it never lasted long. But this was different. Now the good part.
That first year and the rest of my time there, my fear shifted. Initially it was a fear I was going to get beat up. So physical pain. After I was broken and re-built it became fear of failure and letting my friends and family down. Something that continues to today. And during all those years, the experiences I had were some of the most heightened in all my life. Situations, things, people, all are burned into my mind. Granted, age is starting to take its toll, so maybe it is good that I jot some things down. In fact I may do a blog just on those stories; but for now, trying to explain it might do here.
I remember laying on my bunk, enjoying the sweet time of doing nothing with not a worry in the world. You may think you enjoy doing nothing, but think of what your nothing is: watching TV, playing on the computer, taking a nap. and then think of what you are worried about; bills, taxes, job, relationship. What I am talking about is laying on my bed, arms behind my head, the sun coming through the window, sounds of things going on outside, and knowing that I had these 20-30 minutes before I had to do anything or be anywhere. Maybe before I was going to be scared. But for right then, I just had to worry about the there and now. I lived. Those times are burned into me, like I had looked too long at the sun. And I thank God for them.
Fear. People get scared from riding a roller coaster, spiders, snakes, etc. Its usually sudden sometimes and unexpected and then its over. I want to tell you about being scared for days. Not knowing. This could be akin to a time in combat. The down side: you live with a fear. Its something that you wear; you hope that no one can tell. You cry yourself to sleep sometimes. You have to be careful and keep the fear in check; a small tear in public could lead to a breakdown. You find your hands shaking. Sweat. You wonder what the tightness is. Now imagine that for hours at a time, days at a time. Courage is not conquering fear but something that allows you to push through it.
You may say that you shouldn't have to be scared. It's illegal, immoral, etc. etc. Did it happen to me? Hell yes. And for hundreds of others. Do I think it was wrong? Hell no! Why? Like I said: courage was not abolishing fear. You need fear. What this was, was learning to work through, to master. But conquer? Never. Anyone who says they are never afraid is a liar and a fool and get shunt of them fast. I still get scared. I can feel that cold feeling creeping over me at times like a mist. It lets me know that I am scared. Whatever is about to happen is something that is making me fearful. HOW I handle is very important. THATS what I learned. I was the typical boy from the farm. I had never really been scared for a continuous time. I had been scared at times, like getting on a Ferris wheel; it never lasted long. But this was different. Now the good part.
That first year and the rest of my time there, my fear shifted. Initially it was a fear I was going to get beat up. So physical pain. After I was broken and re-built it became fear of failure and letting my friends and family down. Something that continues to today. And during all those years, the experiences I had were some of the most heightened in all my life. Situations, things, people, all are burned into my mind. Granted, age is starting to take its toll, so maybe it is good that I jot some things down. In fact I may do a blog just on those stories; but for now, trying to explain it might do here.
I remember laying on my bunk, enjoying the sweet time of doing nothing with not a worry in the world. You may think you enjoy doing nothing, but think of what your nothing is: watching TV, playing on the computer, taking a nap. and then think of what you are worried about; bills, taxes, job, relationship. What I am talking about is laying on my bed, arms behind my head, the sun coming through the window, sounds of things going on outside, and knowing that I had these 20-30 minutes before I had to do anything or be anywhere. Maybe before I was going to be scared. But for right then, I just had to worry about the there and now. I lived. Those times are burned into me, like I had looked too long at the sun. And I thank God for them.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Erasing David
There is actually an independent movie that I want to see: Erasing David. Basically a man decided to see if he can live off the grid and without anyone finding him for a month. Its from the UK, and its about how they are trying to find him. I have not seen it but looks interesting. I think, because the guy David seems like a typical family man, he doesn't think too far ahead. Or maybe it is that UK vs USA mentality. After watching so much tv we know that you can be traced by electronic devices, ATMs havbe cameras, there are traffic cameras, etc. So yeah getting off the beaten path is good. But on the same toke, you just don't one day wake up and say I'm off. Its about planning too. And since David is more or less probably a nice guy, he is not good at lying or deceiving people. Also, if hes lugging around camera equipment, that doesn't make you inconspicuous. And I think he was trying to live a normal life. If you are hiding, for what ever reason, normal goes out the window. I think any good survivor would probably come from the military or something like that, and no I don't mean because of survival training. But because of who he meets and stays in contact with. And, if you are trying to throw of pursuers, who you know will be coming after you; set up false trails, get rid of everything that identifies you and change your appearance. Delete and or destroy computer files that has any kind of contact info of friends that you may use. Take as much money as you can. Cache things if you can. while the movie is probably very good at showing a normal guy trying not to get caught; I think he does get caught-probably after 2 weeks to maybe 3 weeks. Its not too realistic. In Europe you need a passport to go between countries. In the US, don't need to. So the less tracking of info the better. What I'd like to see and would volunteer for would be to try and find someone over in the US. Unless there are 'rules' I think trying to track someone here would be very hard. Don't believe me? Look at all the criminals who evade capture.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Old Friends
Old friends are the best. I hope I don't have to elaborate on that. With the onset of Facebook, I have friends that I haven't heard from in 30 years. Some people might thinks its strange that we can pick up where we left off. Well that's military school for you. In this case its different that the military. In the military you know everything about him as you have seen them happy, scared shit-less, shitfaced, etc. Well at a military school you see that also, including them growing up. In the military, ostensibly you are an adult. At a military school, you have to grow up fast in some ways, while still being a kid. So it double bonds us. Like the British and the mystique of the Regiment, the same happens. You either get it or you don't.
Great hearing from you Groseclose and Coggins.
Great hearing from you Groseclose and Coggins.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
What Am I Doing?
Just read a blog where someone was surviving on a $1 a day. Well it means that they were only spending a $1 a day for what they eat. Free is free, etc. Sounds great. And then other have great blogs that a ton of people read and comment on. And then there is mine. Yawn.
Ok, to be fair, on occasion I have something good. I thought my review of Linked was good. But it is mostly my ramblings. A lot of times they are not 'linked' or may even make sense. Part of me wishes I could write something that people would want to read. I mean that is the goal of any writer.
Ok, to be fair, on occasion I have something good. I thought my review of Linked was good. But it is mostly my ramblings. A lot of times they are not 'linked' or may even make sense. Part of me wishes I could write something that people would want to read. I mean that is the goal of any writer.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Countdown
Watched a "House" episode and something interesting popped into my mind. What if you found out you only had 7 days to live (you find this out on a Sunday,and you will depart this earth next Sunday). What would you do?
Well, I think I would handle that news that I am leaving well. God's calling me home; I have reached the expiration date on my birth certificate. So how am I going on?
Sunday evening I'd have a great dinner with family at Shakespeare's Pizza. There really isn't good on TV, so it won't matter. Walk around Columbia. Go to all the places and get pictures taken. You know; in front of Harpos, Shakespeare's, Sub Shop, the Columns, the Tiger, etc. My reason is that when I go, want to take them with me, and anyone who wants gets copies to remember me by. Find a place to grab coffee and talk with everyone til midnight. Grab sleep from midnight til 6.
See my reason is this: I really don't want to go anywhere else as my people are here. And hopefully others will come and join me. And being surrounded by people I care about is important. Besides, after I am gone, I hope to be able to see everything. Call me conceded or just a Christian, but I think/hope/pray I am going 'up there.' So I can look down. I hope I don't have to send up a note.
In any case, why spend time to get somewhere for only a little bit when you have so little left. Like Tim McGraw, Live like you are dying.
Monday morning, have a great big breakfast. I love breakfast; sunny side up eggs, grist, bacon, coffee, milk, hash browns, etc. After breakfast on Monday morning would be reserved for getting all the arrangements out of the way.
And no, I am not thinking of checking out early. I just thought that House episode was really interesting, and how we handle death is as important as how we handle life.
More on this later.
Well, I think I would handle that news that I am leaving well. God's calling me home; I have reached the expiration date on my birth certificate. So how am I going on?
Sunday evening I'd have a great dinner with family at Shakespeare's Pizza. There really isn't good on TV, so it won't matter. Walk around Columbia. Go to all the places and get pictures taken. You know; in front of Harpos, Shakespeare's, Sub Shop, the Columns, the Tiger, etc. My reason is that when I go, want to take them with me, and anyone who wants gets copies to remember me by. Find a place to grab coffee and talk with everyone til midnight. Grab sleep from midnight til 6.
See my reason is this: I really don't want to go anywhere else as my people are here. And hopefully others will come and join me. And being surrounded by people I care about is important. Besides, after I am gone, I hope to be able to see everything. Call me conceded or just a Christian, but I think/hope/pray I am going 'up there.' So I can look down. I hope I don't have to send up a note.
In any case, why spend time to get somewhere for only a little bit when you have so little left. Like Tim McGraw, Live like you are dying.
Monday morning, have a great big breakfast. I love breakfast; sunny side up eggs, grist, bacon, coffee, milk, hash browns, etc. After breakfast on Monday morning would be reserved for getting all the arrangements out of the way.
And no, I am not thinking of checking out early. I just thought that House episode was really interesting, and how we handle death is as important as how we handle life.
Garfunkel And Oates
I was watching Jay Leno and he had on "Garfunkel & Oates." When I saw who it was I couldn't believe it. These 2 actresses I have seen on different things and together they form a comedy singing duo. Their stuff is right off 'Bob & Tom' show. Not to mention I recognized them both from TV shows I have watched.
The tall blond, who I always liked and thought was a great talent was in The Big Bang Theory and Pushing Daisies. The ukulele player I had just seen in 'Til Death.
Their music is tongue in cheek with a old fashioned pen; you know the one-with a sharp point that drips ink.
Check them out.
http://www.garfunkelandoates.com/
And Bob & Tom Show, if you are listening, you should definitely gets these girls on your show!
The tall blond, who I always liked and thought was a great talent was in The Big Bang Theory and Pushing Daisies. The ukulele player I had just seen in 'Til Death.
Their music is tongue in cheek with a old fashioned pen; you know the one-with a sharp point that drips ink.
Check them out.
http://www.garfunkelandoates.com/
And Bob & Tom Show, if you are listening, you should definitely gets these girls on your show!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Shower Party
I remember a time at Kemper, it must have been my birthday and it must have been after I became an officer; as I had decided to hide out in the Officer's Club. Our O Club at the time, had been "rode hard and put away wet." The only good thing about it was that it allowed you to get away, watch tv with only about 4 channels. Cable had just started to make a move so we had TBS. That was the big thing. And it was enough for a simple country boy like me. Great movies, occasionally switch to CNN or weather or something like that. and usually it seemed that I was the only one taking advantage of it, as the officers at that time liked to go out and could. So the O Club was becoming a dinosaur.
In any case, I was there watching tv. It had a great couch that had been broken in by a few years of cadets, so it was just right to nap on while the tv droned on. Suddenly there was a knocking on the door. Answering it, I saw, I want to say Anderson. And if that was the case, then it would have been 1981. Anyway, he said that someone had been in my room and my sousaphone had fallen off the bed and had broken. I assumed that the bell had come off, and assured him it wouldn't be a problem getting it back together.
Now "K" Barracks was a 'L' shape, long halls and doors on each side. My room happened to be in the middle. As I almost got to me room, I heard "Get him" and all the doors opened up and Band Company flowed out and into the hall and surrounded me. I had been set up. As their grinning faces surrounded me, I didn't make a run or even fight as they grabbed me. The only thing I did say was that they had to take my shoes, pants (they were dry clean only) and my glasses and then they could throw me in the shower/and or shaving cream me. If not I would make sure that some of them talked funny before going in. As usual, my demands were met. See; they knew that what happened to me might happen to them. As long as you respected a few things, there was no problem. At a military school where shoes and uniforms were important, taking of shoes so they could be shined again and your pants, which could stain and hand to be dry cleaned and you could only do that once a week, were important. Also glasses. Especially if you had to see music to play. and considering I was the only tuba player (and sounded like 3 tubas at times) my glasses were also taken care of.
Yes I got wet and probably shaving creamed. Did I care? No. Did everyone have fun? Hell yes! Would I do it again? You have no idea.
In any case, I was there watching tv. It had a great couch that had been broken in by a few years of cadets, so it was just right to nap on while the tv droned on. Suddenly there was a knocking on the door. Answering it, I saw, I want to say Anderson. And if that was the case, then it would have been 1981. Anyway, he said that someone had been in my room and my sousaphone had fallen off the bed and had broken. I assumed that the bell had come off, and assured him it wouldn't be a problem getting it back together.
Now "K" Barracks was a 'L' shape, long halls and doors on each side. My room happened to be in the middle. As I almost got to me room, I heard "Get him" and all the doors opened up and Band Company flowed out and into the hall and surrounded me. I had been set up. As their grinning faces surrounded me, I didn't make a run or even fight as they grabbed me. The only thing I did say was that they had to take my shoes, pants (they were dry clean only) and my glasses and then they could throw me in the shower/and or shaving cream me. If not I would make sure that some of them talked funny before going in. As usual, my demands were met. See; they knew that what happened to me might happen to them. As long as you respected a few things, there was no problem. At a military school where shoes and uniforms were important, taking of shoes so they could be shined again and your pants, which could stain and hand to be dry cleaned and you could only do that once a week, were important. Also glasses. Especially if you had to see music to play. and considering I was the only tuba player (and sounded like 3 tubas at times) my glasses were also taken care of.
Yes I got wet and probably shaving creamed. Did I care? No. Did everyone have fun? Hell yes! Would I do it again? You have no idea.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Another Web Series - The Sanctum
I guess I am starting to get into web series like a lot of people these days. The first one I found and I must say is still my favorite is The Guild. I know there are some Trek ones out there, so I must remain true to the craft and what I have seen they are good. And of course Linked is a new one and very good for the first time. I just found another called The Sanctum. And the reason I like this is that it takes a twist on something that is real, addiction and people with super powers. And especially the first episode. Like anything else there are some good ones and one that might need some work. But all in all very good. Cliche in some aspects but refreshing in others. Only had 6 or 7 episodes, but worth it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQ7CHntsFF8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQ7CHntsFF8
I'm Behind You U.S. Marines
In this article, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35857447/ns/world_news-washington_post which I must say that the more I read the faster I read, which means I was getting upset, the question on whether the Marines have too much autonomy than other units. All military units have a chain of command. They have orders. The marines have always done things their way, the marine way, and they are good at what they do. Witness the success they have when they are allowed to do it. If this doesn't scream that the powers to be; be they republican or democrat, although I am betting dem, since the comment from the Obama rep., doesn't like it when the military wins, I don't know what does.
When it comes to politics I have only 2 hot buttons. One is gun control. I am a lifetime member of the NRA and have owned many many many guns in my time. I know the First Amendment is possible because of the 2nd Amendment. The other one is the military. Let them do what they have to do. There are no rules in war except one: win. The reason that people can complain openly, loudly and often against their own country is because brave men and women gave their life, so other could spit on what they did. THAT pisses me off. No amount of debate will ever change my mind; and this crap about 'not supporting the war but supporting the troops..' sorry. You support the troops because of what they do.
I have had the privilege of knowing many men and women from all branches who served. And many who served in Viet Nam. Had the politicians allowed the military to do what they Had to do, it would have been different. But you see what happens when you try to please everyone. WW II didn't have that problem. Patton, MacArthur, Murphy didn't have those problems.
So I say; good luck to the U.S. Marines. As their toughest enemy is not the one they prepare to fight over there, but the ones who don't want you to succeed. And unfortunately, that enemy is over here.
When it comes to politics I have only 2 hot buttons. One is gun control. I am a lifetime member of the NRA and have owned many many many guns in my time. I know the First Amendment is possible because of the 2nd Amendment. The other one is the military. Let them do what they have to do. There are no rules in war except one: win. The reason that people can complain openly, loudly and often against their own country is because brave men and women gave their life, so other could spit on what they did. THAT pisses me off. No amount of debate will ever change my mind; and this crap about 'not supporting the war but supporting the troops..' sorry. You support the troops because of what they do.
I have had the privilege of knowing many men and women from all branches who served. And many who served in Viet Nam. Had the politicians allowed the military to do what they Had to do, it would have been different. But you see what happens when you try to please everyone. WW II didn't have that problem. Patton, MacArthur, Murphy didn't have those problems.
So I say; good luck to the U.S. Marines. As their toughest enemy is not the one they prepare to fight over there, but the ones who don't want you to succeed. And unfortunately, that enemy is over here.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Before My Heart Finds Out
Title: Before My Heart Finds Out
Artist: Gene Cotton
Well, you woke me from a dream about you
Just to say that you were leaving
I'm sleepy but I thought that you said
That our love that will last forever is endin'
Well before you walk out of my life
Would you be especially quiet
And don't let my heart know that you're leavin'
Don't you say another word about it darlin'
Don't you let my heart hear your footsteps walkin' out
The door of my hopes and dreams
And don't you let my heart know that you're leavin'
Don't you say another word about it darlin'
Leave me now before my heart finds out
Well, I see you writing something down
And leavin' it on the dresser
And the tears in your eyes look a lot like mine
But I guess it's all for the better
Well before we say our last goodbye
Baby won't you hold me just one more time
(repeat chorus)
To me this is the sound of the 70s. I loved this song and it will always remind me of those times. Today's music just doesn't tell the story any more.
Artist: Gene Cotton
Well, you woke me from a dream about you
Just to say that you were leaving
I'm sleepy but I thought that you said
That our love that will last forever is endin'
Well before you walk out of my life
Would you be especially quiet
And don't let my heart know that you're leavin'
Don't you say another word about it darlin'
Don't you let my heart hear your footsteps walkin' out
The door of my hopes and dreams
And don't you let my heart know that you're leavin'
Don't you say another word about it darlin'
Leave me now before my heart finds out
Well, I see you writing something down
And leavin' it on the dresser
And the tears in your eyes look a lot like mine
But I guess it's all for the better
Well before we say our last goodbye
Baby won't you hold me just one more time
(repeat chorus)
To me this is the sound of the 70s. I loved this song and it will always remind me of those times. Today's music just doesn't tell the story any more.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Excited
I got a very nice e-mail from the creator and star of Linked about my review. I really did like it and hope that there is a Season 2. Never made me think about being a film producer...who knows. First I guess I need to come up with something original and fresh first, huh? Besides, I maybe getting too long in the tooth.
Another great thing that happened today was I saw an old friend. hadn't seen him in about 6 months; he was down here at the college with his daughter as she was checking out the J-School. First time I had really gotten to talk with her and told her what her dad meant to me. we have known each other over 30 years now. And as I said, I don't see him the way he is now, I still see him like he was all those years ago. Greg was a bit of a wild man in his day, but he has settled down to be a good man and it is reflected it his daughters. Kudos my friend.
You know, as I write, I have no idea who is reading my blog. I'm just some guy in the mid-west, ok Missouri, with a eclectic tastes. I should write a book on what I have gone through; of course I would have to label it fiction as I want to add what I think went on behind the scenes and other things to make a good read. I could entitle it something like, 'Oh How the Mighty Have Fallen.'
I am glad that what has been happening of late has gotten me through whatever writer's block I have had for a while. My problem I was always concerned with writing something fresh, or trying to make stories with twists and turns that keep people guessing even though the clues were there. I was once accused of thinking too much and I think that was it. So maybe by writing 'snapshots' of what happened in my life is the best way. And a blog is as good as any.
If nothing else I can always use what I write her as rough drafts and memories to keep me going.
Another great thing that happened today was I saw an old friend. hadn't seen him in about 6 months; he was down here at the college with his daughter as she was checking out the J-School. First time I had really gotten to talk with her and told her what her dad meant to me. we have known each other over 30 years now. And as I said, I don't see him the way he is now, I still see him like he was all those years ago. Greg was a bit of a wild man in his day, but he has settled down to be a good man and it is reflected it his daughters. Kudos my friend.
You know, as I write, I have no idea who is reading my blog. I'm just some guy in the mid-west, ok Missouri, with a eclectic tastes. I should write a book on what I have gone through; of course I would have to label it fiction as I want to add what I think went on behind the scenes and other things to make a good read. I could entitle it something like, 'Oh How the Mighty Have Fallen.'
I am glad that what has been happening of late has gotten me through whatever writer's block I have had for a while. My problem I was always concerned with writing something fresh, or trying to make stories with twists and turns that keep people guessing even though the clues were there. I was once accused of thinking too much and I think that was it. So maybe by writing 'snapshots' of what happened in my life is the best way. And a blog is as good as any.
If nothing else I can always use what I write her as rough drafts and memories to keep me going.
Web Series - Linked review. Highly Recommended!
Highly Recommended!
OK, one of my dreams has never been to be a movie director or producer. Maybe a writer. People say I am such an actor (but I don't know if they mean that in a good way or bad). What I have been is a professional freelance photographer with a studio and all the gear. But that was pre-divorce. And it was all film; not digital. 35mm and 4x5 (medium format) and I was trying to get into video and wanted to do large format. I always know that you have to diversify to survive. I did that when I had my stores and I am doing that in life. So when I saw an ad for a Sony video camera, it didn't do much for me, except there were 2 elements that caught my attention: a pretty girl and that she made a sci-fi net series called Linked.
We all know you can find anything online, and I clicked the link, to Linked. Now, a pet peeve of mine is that I will not usually click on a video of something that is not the pilot or first in a series. I HATE trying to figure out what is going on and who is what. So I was glad to see the pilot was there along with what looked liked the whole series. I watched them all and that included the bloopers and message to fans. Went to the web site and read about all the principles.
I am now ready to do my review on Linked.
One thing I do want to say before I start: I was in a low budget movie called The Detail. I had 10 seconds on screen shooting someone, but I was also the official still photographer a personal assistant and many other behind the scene jobs in that film, besides being a small investor. So I know what it takes to make a movie. I saw it first hand. I also know camera shots, lightings, etc. from my time as a photographer and I have been writing, like the creator of Linked, since I was a kid. I hone my writing style sometimes at work (I work for a newspaper) and on other blogs. And I know a good story. So all that being said, here goes.
Linked is sci-fi. Plus there, as I am a sci-fer. It also has what I would say is a "Lost" slant. But unlike that series which has gotten too weird even for me, it doesn't hit you over the head with it. The main character is a guy named Gabriel. That caught my attention, as we all know from our bible studies about Gabriel. And though in one of the descriptions he was classified as a slacker, I think that is doing him a grave mis-service. Either they wanted to show him as one and then he gets caught up in this and proves he isn't, or they mis-used the term. I think from little pieces of him he was not supposed to be the typical slacker, as he has a job (hes a doorman), had a girlfriend (we never saw) a nice apartment, so I would not say he is a slacker. Or he is just very bad at being one. Then another blurb has him as a typical guy; that I can go with. Now his friend, a law student drop out, and who, come on, is comic relief at times, would be more of a slacker than Gabriel. The actor they have playing him is very good. And even the side-kick isn't bad. As the series went on, they got more comfortable with their roles and really did develop.
The premise is that Gabriel has had these unique dreams. Since he was little. Once he dreamt of a woman and then she was found dead. He has had a few others but these have been the first he had in a while. As he tells his friend this and about what happened in the dream, his friend, initially reacts like any guy does when another tells him he had a dream about two girls. Insert crude sex joke here. But, to his friend's credit, he gets on board and actually pushes Gabriel to delve deeper. This is where it diverges from Lost as they become detectives. The dreams, in the later episodes aren't coming. They do come back though. To interesting results.
The very first episode is very strong. Very well done, and has that hook you need to keep people interested in the characters and what the story is about.
As the first season progressed, there were some leaps of faith in this. Like when the mom calls the detectives who are also looking for her missing daughters when Gabriel and side-kick come over so they can go to a possible leads house. Its typical tv/movie stuff, and not uncommon so raises no 'dis-belief.'
All in all very good for a new comer, and a perfect medium (The Net) for the series. The episodes are no more than 5 minutes, which at times is frustrating when the story and acting is good, and relieved in those places where the actors are two-dimensional stereotypes.
Being a gamer, and always trying to breath life into characters I understand the difficulty she had in this and is in no way a slap. We need bad guys for our good guys; supporting characters. And it makes the other ones stand out.
As I said, the main character Gabriel is very well done. We have had some back story, shown him that he does care about people and is a nice guy. Someone we all would like as a friend.
His friend, Jason, is another typical guy. As I said, he is more of a slacker, but thats not bad. We know he doesn't have a job, but must have money saved or something as he also has a nice apartment; must be into movies as we see a film clapper, some photography equipment and even a Michale Myers head. We find out that he is a law student drop out, but remembers enough to know what the penalty for breaking and entering is. A nice guy and a good friend. Very supportive of Gabriel, and a plucky side-kick. So Jason you got your nick-name as Plucky, even though you are trying to hang one onto Gabriel. Personally I like Sleeper. Yeah I know, Dreamer is more what he does, but I don't think it carries a punch.
Then you have Lynn. Besides being the creator/writer of this, she does a good job in this. As I mentioned, some things are moved along for the film's sake; like when Gabriel tells her this is a dream. And after token resistance, believes him. Part of this is the movement of the story, but another I would say, or maybe its the romantic in me, that the chemistry is there between them, that she trusts and believes in Gabriel. I will also give credit to Gabriel; hes smarter than I was thinking about the dream bit and then telling her to wake up. I would never have figured that out.
Like I said, her and her sister's back story about who one worked for and the other being a investigator/journalist is pretty good. But they are used more for why the girls are in this situation than anything else. Like a secondary profession in the old D & D game. Its there, but rarely acted on. Still, they are important points as that's the cause of the calamity that the girls are in.
Then there is Ray, Lynn's boyfriend. Initially he might have been considered a prime suspect. His actions were suspect. And then when Gabriel saw him flirting with another woman, made him even more suspicious. He is a heavy, and does a good part at it, though he needs a little work. Though he does have a presence, doesn't raise him out of a stereotype.
Finally, the guy that the sister's 'adopted,' Randy, was very good. But he still needs some work too. I will say that when he 'disappeared' in front of Gabriel, you didn't know if he actually had, which would have been great or did he just hide. The problem I found was that he just disappeared after he was arrested. The actor did a nice job, but still needed a bit more. Playing someone who has developmental problems, is a challenge. I am glad to see someone with that trait in a movie, as it roots us to real life. Some of the dialog and acting was a bit stilted, but again, for 5 minutes of air time and moving a story along, it can be forgiven.
Bravo with the trench coat and red sweat hoodie though!
Forgettable characters: the other sister, Angel, even though she is the first one we really see/know on screen. We do see a little more of here, but definitely a secondary character. The mom, needs work. And all the others.
As I mentioned, in a role play game, these people are the NPCs and are not as fleshed out. And in short 5 minute webisodes, it shows.
And finally the mystery man at the season ender. The girls are saved. But its not over for Gabriel. Great way to end the season. And makes me want to see more. I want to see more.
This series is fresher than a lot of others on network TV. I can imagine a movie out of the first season verses a series. In that case, more character development would be paramount. I would keep the principle people playing, Gabriel, Jason, Lynn, Ray and Randy. The story is solid. And the ending, though notlovey-dovey is upbeat. And then just when you thought it was over, Mystery Man enters.
Bravo!
All in all, I highly recommend this. The story is very good. The acting is good for the most part. And while its not The Guild, another web series, has potential. It would be great if these two female creators; from The Guild and Linked could get together. These two have great futures and I am interested in anything they do.
I give this 4.5 stars out of 5!
Here's the link: http://www.getlinkedtv.com/Home_Page.html
OK, one of my dreams has never been to be a movie director or producer. Maybe a writer. People say I am such an actor (but I don't know if they mean that in a good way or bad). What I have been is a professional freelance photographer with a studio and all the gear. But that was pre-divorce. And it was all film; not digital. 35mm and 4x5 (medium format) and I was trying to get into video and wanted to do large format. I always know that you have to diversify to survive. I did that when I had my stores and I am doing that in life. So when I saw an ad for a Sony video camera, it didn't do much for me, except there were 2 elements that caught my attention: a pretty girl and that she made a sci-fi net series called Linked.
We all know you can find anything online, and I clicked the link, to Linked. Now, a pet peeve of mine is that I will not usually click on a video of something that is not the pilot or first in a series. I HATE trying to figure out what is going on and who is what. So I was glad to see the pilot was there along with what looked liked the whole series. I watched them all and that included the bloopers and message to fans. Went to the web site and read about all the principles.
I am now ready to do my review on Linked.
One thing I do want to say before I start: I was in a low budget movie called The Detail. I had 10 seconds on screen shooting someone, but I was also the official still photographer a personal assistant and many other behind the scene jobs in that film, besides being a small investor. So I know what it takes to make a movie. I saw it first hand. I also know camera shots, lightings, etc. from my time as a photographer and I have been writing, like the creator of Linked, since I was a kid. I hone my writing style sometimes at work (I work for a newspaper) and on other blogs. And I know a good story. So all that being said, here goes.
Linked is sci-fi. Plus there, as I am a sci-fer. It also has what I would say is a "Lost" slant. But unlike that series which has gotten too weird even for me, it doesn't hit you over the head with it. The main character is a guy named Gabriel. That caught my attention, as we all know from our bible studies about Gabriel. And though in one of the descriptions he was classified as a slacker, I think that is doing him a grave mis-service. Either they wanted to show him as one and then he gets caught up in this and proves he isn't, or they mis-used the term. I think from little pieces of him he was not supposed to be the typical slacker, as he has a job (hes a doorman), had a girlfriend (we never saw) a nice apartment, so I would not say he is a slacker. Or he is just very bad at being one. Then another blurb has him as a typical guy; that I can go with. Now his friend, a law student drop out, and who, come on, is comic relief at times, would be more of a slacker than Gabriel. The actor they have playing him is very good. And even the side-kick isn't bad. As the series went on, they got more comfortable with their roles and really did develop.
The premise is that Gabriel has had these unique dreams. Since he was little. Once he dreamt of a woman and then she was found dead. He has had a few others but these have been the first he had in a while. As he tells his friend this and about what happened in the dream, his friend, initially reacts like any guy does when another tells him he had a dream about two girls. Insert crude sex joke here. But, to his friend's credit, he gets on board and actually pushes Gabriel to delve deeper. This is where it diverges from Lost as they become detectives. The dreams, in the later episodes aren't coming. They do come back though. To interesting results.
The very first episode is very strong. Very well done, and has that hook you need to keep people interested in the characters and what the story is about.
As the first season progressed, there were some leaps of faith in this. Like when the mom calls the detectives who are also looking for her missing daughters when Gabriel and side-kick come over so they can go to a possible leads house. Its typical tv/movie stuff, and not uncommon so raises no 'dis-belief.'
All in all very good for a new comer, and a perfect medium (The Net) for the series. The episodes are no more than 5 minutes, which at times is frustrating when the story and acting is good, and relieved in those places where the actors are two-dimensional stereotypes.
Being a gamer, and always trying to breath life into characters I understand the difficulty she had in this and is in no way a slap. We need bad guys for our good guys; supporting characters. And it makes the other ones stand out.
As I said, the main character Gabriel is very well done. We have had some back story, shown him that he does care about people and is a nice guy. Someone we all would like as a friend.
His friend, Jason, is another typical guy. As I said, he is more of a slacker, but thats not bad. We know he doesn't have a job, but must have money saved or something as he also has a nice apartment; must be into movies as we see a film clapper, some photography equipment and even a Michale Myers head. We find out that he is a law student drop out, but remembers enough to know what the penalty for breaking and entering is. A nice guy and a good friend. Very supportive of Gabriel, and a plucky side-kick. So Jason you got your nick-name as Plucky, even though you are trying to hang one onto Gabriel. Personally I like Sleeper. Yeah I know, Dreamer is more what he does, but I don't think it carries a punch.
Then you have Lynn. Besides being the creator/writer of this, she does a good job in this. As I mentioned, some things are moved along for the film's sake; like when Gabriel tells her this is a dream. And after token resistance, believes him. Part of this is the movement of the story, but another I would say, or maybe its the romantic in me, that the chemistry is there between them, that she trusts and believes in Gabriel. I will also give credit to Gabriel; hes smarter than I was thinking about the dream bit and then telling her to wake up. I would never have figured that out.
Like I said, her and her sister's back story about who one worked for and the other being a investigator/journalist is pretty good. But they are used more for why the girls are in this situation than anything else. Like a secondary profession in the old D & D game. Its there, but rarely acted on. Still, they are important points as that's the cause of the calamity that the girls are in.
Then there is Ray, Lynn's boyfriend. Initially he might have been considered a prime suspect. His actions were suspect. And then when Gabriel saw him flirting with another woman, made him even more suspicious. He is a heavy, and does a good part at it, though he needs a little work. Though he does have a presence, doesn't raise him out of a stereotype.
Finally, the guy that the sister's 'adopted,' Randy, was very good. But he still needs some work too. I will say that when he 'disappeared' in front of Gabriel, you didn't know if he actually had, which would have been great or did he just hide. The problem I found was that he just disappeared after he was arrested. The actor did a nice job, but still needed a bit more. Playing someone who has developmental problems, is a challenge. I am glad to see someone with that trait in a movie, as it roots us to real life. Some of the dialog and acting was a bit stilted, but again, for 5 minutes of air time and moving a story along, it can be forgiven.
Bravo with the trench coat and red sweat hoodie though!
Forgettable characters: the other sister, Angel, even though she is the first one we really see/know on screen. We do see a little more of here, but definitely a secondary character. The mom, needs work. And all the others.
As I mentioned, in a role play game, these people are the NPCs and are not as fleshed out. And in short 5 minute webisodes, it shows.
And finally the mystery man at the season ender. The girls are saved. But its not over for Gabriel. Great way to end the season. And makes me want to see more. I want to see more.
This series is fresher than a lot of others on network TV. I can imagine a movie out of the first season verses a series. In that case, more character development would be paramount. I would keep the principle people playing, Gabriel, Jason, Lynn, Ray and Randy. The story is solid. And the ending, though notlovey-dovey is upbeat. And then just when you thought it was over, Mystery Man enters.
Bravo!
All in all, I highly recommend this. The story is very good. The acting is good for the most part. And while its not The Guild, another web series, has potential. It would be great if these two female creators; from The Guild and Linked could get together. These two have great futures and I am interested in anything they do.
I give this 4.5 stars out of 5!
Here's the link: http://www.getlinkedtv.com/Home_Page.html
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Shes on another ONE!
Ok, Jeri Ryan. Loved her in Trek, but she has certainly been making the rounds of other shows. Leverage and now Psych? I should have caught that when Spencer was making the joke that Gus needed to see the season finale of "Leverage." Please, its like watching Kate Mulgrew in Mercy. Shes playing an alcoholic mother and not the best mother either. OMG, she had a starship for fricking sake! Man I must be getting old if I am complaining about that crap on TV. But seriously; I liked 7 of 9, but these others... just don't do it. Maybe I am that big of a Trekkie (I am) but still... once you find something that you are good at... stereotype or not, it can outlast any other thing you try to do. Look at Shatner. He tried TJ Hooker, but you don't see big 'TJ Hooker' conventions. So point there for Trek!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
That Was Then This Is Now
When I was younger I chose music that I liked from hearing the song. Sometimes it was where I heard the song or what I was doing or it was recommended by a friend. Now, because of the Internet I have can find 90% of those oldies somewhere - there are some that are gone forever, but I have forgotten them. Anyway. Now a days, if I like a video I like the song. Only a very few songs have I heard that I liked because I heard them verses seeing the video. Steve Buble is one that I heard the song and liked it before seeing the video. Another would be Sade's Soldier of Love.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
What Happens in Vegas...
Ok, this is not something I would not normally watch, as I can figure out the plot real easily. But, like any movie its always interesting to see how they get there and what the message is going to be. And I must say I have always liked Cameron Diaz since I saw her in The Mask. And Ashton Kutcher has come a long ways since Thats 70s Show. And of course there is Vegas! Love that place. It wasn't a bad movie.
But there was something in the movie that I had to think about; it talked about the last time being happy. And in the movie Cameron was very specific. I could say Kemper or 14 years ago; and while true is vague. I'm not sure. I mean I have had good times and things, but they were taking about a state of being and mind. One thing I know that I swore I would never do was be nervous-like my dad was later in his life. I never understood then; but I do now.
Another thing that I have learned is that I wish I was part of something. Ok, let me explain that-at Kemper, in the military, you are part of something. The closest thing I am part of is Starfleet. And it is taking it tolls. People are moving on, as it should. They get married, kids, career... so its not like the way it was. There are only a few of us left that are still like we were. And after us there ain't any more. We are truly a dying breed. Dinosaur.
I need to be a part of something, people I respect, and to have their respect. Its not something that can be handed to you. You don't earn that which can easily be just given away. It took me 6 years to get some people's respects and its been taking me the rest of my life to make sure that they know, that respect was not misplaced. How I feel, how to feel like it was...to feel safe? I have learned that safe is boring and stagnant. A combination of what Titus said and how the US was before WWII. For when the shit hits the fan, you aren't prepared. You freak. I freaked for a while after all the crap that happened. I wasn't truly prepared. But I learned. Now I am better prepared for almost anything. The family battle. Kemper shutting down. Twice divorced. Doing a lot of things that I never thought I would. Doing things that I didn't know I could do. And for being 47 now; I think I have surprised some people. But surprise is not respect.
What to do what to do? Well I do what everyone does-I breath in, I breath out. I get up to go to work. I do what I can. And that last time I felt safe and free and all that stuff? I can't remember. But I work for that everyday.
But there was something in the movie that I had to think about; it talked about the last time being happy. And in the movie Cameron was very specific. I could say Kemper or 14 years ago; and while true is vague. I'm not sure. I mean I have had good times and things, but they were taking about a state of being and mind. One thing I know that I swore I would never do was be nervous-like my dad was later in his life. I never understood then; but I do now.
Another thing that I have learned is that I wish I was part of something. Ok, let me explain that-at Kemper, in the military, you are part of something. The closest thing I am part of is Starfleet. And it is taking it tolls. People are moving on, as it should. They get married, kids, career... so its not like the way it was. There are only a few of us left that are still like we were. And after us there ain't any more. We are truly a dying breed. Dinosaur.
I need to be a part of something, people I respect, and to have their respect. Its not something that can be handed to you. You don't earn that which can easily be just given away. It took me 6 years to get some people's respects and its been taking me the rest of my life to make sure that they know, that respect was not misplaced. How I feel, how to feel like it was...to feel safe? I have learned that safe is boring and stagnant. A combination of what Titus said and how the US was before WWII. For when the shit hits the fan, you aren't prepared. You freak. I freaked for a while after all the crap that happened. I wasn't truly prepared. But I learned. Now I am better prepared for almost anything. The family battle. Kemper shutting down. Twice divorced. Doing a lot of things that I never thought I would. Doing things that I didn't know I could do. And for being 47 now; I think I have surprised some people. But surprise is not respect.
What to do what to do? Well I do what everyone does-I breath in, I breath out. I get up to go to work. I do what I can. And that last time I felt safe and free and all that stuff? I can't remember. But I work for that everyday.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Birthday
You know the old joke... as you get older what have you learned...not much. Well, the one thing I have learned is that you can't go back. And that's good. I was discussing movies and all those remakes with a professor here at the college and told him that the remake wasn't as good as the original. So anytime that I try and do what was done then...isn't like it was. The ole' trying to capture lightning in a bottle. So I'm not gonna try. But what I am going to do is write down those memories...NOT so they can be replicated, just so I can remember-in the awful case my memory starts to go... lol
I know I had birthday parties when I was little. I even remembering seeing a birthday train cake my mother had made me. I know that all my 'little friends' kids that I grew up with in Glasgow were there. This was truly one of those where you knew everyone. And I remember sleep overs for my birthdays, and other assorted simple and nice treasures of those ages.
But what I remember and the jewel in my birthday memory is going to Diamond Jim's in Glasgow and eating steak. My family would do this besides birthdays, but I remember when I was going to Kemper and eating there with some friends. My parents drove us, so it was pre-driver's license. And I remember it was 1978 or 1979 as I remember the song "Piana Colada (Escape)" was on the juke box. And my mother ordering one of those as she had never had one. I think I even had a sip, even though it was alcoholic. That was a drink she liked and actually drank on occasion throughout the rest of her life. And eating steak on my birthday became a tradition of sorts. Now that's not a bad one to do year after year, and that can be captured.
I do remember one special one though: I was seeing this woman who lived in DC and she took me to a nice steak restaurant. Her and a couple of her friends and I all had a great time. Anymore I want less and less of things and more of memories. As I have learned in the last 13 years that those are the things that can never be taken from you. I mean, I knew that even as far back as Kemper, but it has become so apparent in these last years. And any gift that any friend or lover has ever given me has always retained a special place as that person thought enough of me to give me something. Especially some of my 'sisters.' The one in Minnesota sends me CARE packages on occasions of usually gingerbread cookies and some other assorted neat stuff. That always makes my day and I try and let her know how much that means to me. And my Chief of Staff/Legion Surgeon General has fixed up goodies bags for different things. I think that's so neat of her to do. These are just two of my great friends.
So yeah, on my birthday I remember hearing the Piana Colada song, eating steak around a large table and having a nice time. That is something that I hopes to continue. It doesn't happen every time, but enough that make those memories special.
So happy birthday to me today.
I know I had birthday parties when I was little. I even remembering seeing a birthday train cake my mother had made me. I know that all my 'little friends' kids that I grew up with in Glasgow were there. This was truly one of those where you knew everyone. And I remember sleep overs for my birthdays, and other assorted simple and nice treasures of those ages.
But what I remember and the jewel in my birthday memory is going to Diamond Jim's in Glasgow and eating steak. My family would do this besides birthdays, but I remember when I was going to Kemper and eating there with some friends. My parents drove us, so it was pre-driver's license. And I remember it was 1978 or 1979 as I remember the song "Piana Colada (Escape)" was on the juke box. And my mother ordering one of those as she had never had one. I think I even had a sip, even though it was alcoholic. That was a drink she liked and actually drank on occasion throughout the rest of her life. And eating steak on my birthday became a tradition of sorts. Now that's not a bad one to do year after year, and that can be captured.
I do remember one special one though: I was seeing this woman who lived in DC and she took me to a nice steak restaurant. Her and a couple of her friends and I all had a great time. Anymore I want less and less of things and more of memories. As I have learned in the last 13 years that those are the things that can never be taken from you. I mean, I knew that even as far back as Kemper, but it has become so apparent in these last years. And any gift that any friend or lover has ever given me has always retained a special place as that person thought enough of me to give me something. Especially some of my 'sisters.' The one in Minnesota sends me CARE packages on occasions of usually gingerbread cookies and some other assorted neat stuff. That always makes my day and I try and let her know how much that means to me. And my Chief of Staff/Legion Surgeon General has fixed up goodies bags for different things. I think that's so neat of her to do. These are just two of my great friends.
So yeah, on my birthday I remember hearing the Piana Colada song, eating steak around a large table and having a nice time. That is something that I hopes to continue. It doesn't happen every time, but enough that make those memories special.
So happy birthday to me today.
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