tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38482548970367808342024-03-12T19:09:25.575-05:00the land of my sojournBarryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.comBlogger89125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-25828378352746127052016-07-24T15:34:00.001-05:002016-07-24T15:34:32.773-05:00Slow Trauma by Bill Mallonee (A Review)<br />
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"Death usually comes dressed up in her finery and lace" -Bill Mallonee<br />
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--Written July 9, 2016</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I awoke early this morning to a brilliant Arizona sunrise. As we lumbered on aboard the <i>Sunset Limited</i>, we trekked across New Mexico, across the Rio
Grande, and into Texas. As I am writing
this, we’re somewhere in the middle of the big state, rocking and humming along
the familiar path of ties and steel. There’s no better time to take a few
minutes to review <i>Slow Trauma</i>, the
latest by Bill Mallonee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Bill’s last series
of records has been solid; he’s found a home in New Mexico, and his songs have
reflected the new season. <i>Dolorosa</i>, <i>Winnowing</i>, and <i>Lands and Peoples</i> all wrapped themselves in the desert whispers. Slow Trauma continues with the same musical feel for the most part, but it wades off into deeper lyrical waters.</span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-GB"><a href="https://billmalloneemusic.bandcamp.com/album/slow-trauma" target="_blank">Slow Trauma</a></span></i><span lang="EN-GB"> has to be near the top of Bill’s solo
recordings. Let me briefly explain why I think so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">The albums starts with a whimper. He limps
in with “One and the Same.” At a mere minute and seven seconds, this track
left me scratching my head. What’s going on here? Bill’s last several projects
have produced more six and seven minute songs than I can count. This was short
and vulnerable. Before I could draw any conclusions, “Only Time Will Tell”
kicks off, and I’m instantly tapping my foot along with it. This track,
especially, could have been a part of the <i>Audible
Sigh</i> sessions, possibly the <i>Room
Despair</i> EP. It’s a great train song… it’s been in my head all along this
route from Los Angeles. Next, “Waiting for the Stone (to be rolled away)” is
full of beautiful imagery, figurative language, and a pervading confidence in
the presence of doubt. "Hour Glass" captures the old, American western to a T. Mallonee sings, "Maybe one day every flag is gonna have to fly at half mast / Only so many grains of sand... in the hour glass." </span><br />
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Ok. I’ll stop myself. I could go on this
way about every single track, so I won’t. But here’s the thing: it’s not
that it’s a collection of ten well-crafted songs; it’s more than that. There is
no lull. There are no detours. Mallonee guides us through a trail of doubts and
questions dressed in the jangle of a lap-steel guitar along with a simple,
but well-orchestrated platform of alt-country Americana. He sprinkles his
trademark phrases throughout. For instance, “Who knows if our heavy hearts could
ever bear the load?” and “Lady Luck? She grabbed her keys and headed out the
back,” much like <i>Room Despair</i>'s "Goin' South." He also presents an honest confession of his doubts and struggles, which
is the best any of us can do as we navigate this thing called life. Bill
pleads,” Lord, gather me unto Thyself when my wayward heart grows still…I just
wanna see over that last hill.”</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Is <i>Slow
Trauma</i> about death? Yes, it is. Is it depressing? Quite the contrary.
Mallonee’s transparency creates a space for the listener to ask bigger
questions…to seek answers to those unknown questions we face. And at the end of
the ride, we may still have unanswered questions, but the process of
self-examination proves valuable to the soul. Lord knows we all need more
substantial art like this these days. Don’t miss out on this gem. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB">Be sure to give the tracks a listen on Bandcamp. If you like what you hear, you'll also want to check out Bill's new <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1231051195/the-rags-of-absence-bill-mallonee-and-the-big-sky" target="_blank">Kickstarter for the next record</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #311e12; color: #f6f3f3; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;"><br /></span>Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-68897830646043507342016-05-29T12:34:00.000-05:002016-05-29T12:34:22.597-05:00Eric Peters' Far Side of the Sea (A Review)<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB">Am I a man of few words? Not really. More
like a man of short sentences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I once summarized Hemingway's <i>The Old Man
and the Sea</i> in five words:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Old man. Fishing. No fish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">I can be brief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">And while I thought about using twitter for
this review... <a href="http://www.ericpeters.net/far-side-of-the-sea" target="_blank">The Far Side of the Sea</a>--the new album by Eric Peters--
definitely deserves more than 140 characters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">When I was hosting the Twelve Minute Muse
podcast a couple of years ago, Eric was kind enough to do an interview; you can
hear that interview <a href="http://www.twelveminutemuse.com/musings/episode-6-chat-eric-peters/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. At that point he had started working on the concept
and songs for this album. Fast forward to today...the digital version released
to Kickstarter patrons just a couple of weeks ago, and the CDs began arriving
in mailboxes this week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">So let's explore <a href="http://www.ericpeters.net/far-side-of-the-sea" target="_blank">The Far Side of the Sea</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Throughout, the imagery takes us outdoors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">We start with lightning,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Then, we go to the shore. Next, the starry
night, and then "the fields that are covered in dust ."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">There are "Vapor trails [that]
disappear in the sky," " the trampled earth," <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">"Finding breath in the bone dry
dirt," and "Under skies of old routine, when the earth brings no
relief."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">All along this journey...as nature so often
prompts us... we are forced to come to grips with our smallness...our frailty.
Do you know what I mean?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Have you ever stood on the shoreline and
gazed at the vastness of the water...the tide both calming you and somehow
terrifying you all at once? In the same
way, have you stood beneath the sway of a giant oak tree amidst the approach of
a summer storm? Again...did you
simultaneously feel the sense of both comfort and terror?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">As Peters' songs carry us through these
scenes, he captures that sense of wonder and despair. The tracks flow
seamlessly into each other until we reach number 6. "Beautiful One
(Nowhere)" is the magnificent tree in the middle of the metaphorical
forest we are walking through.We are forced to slow down, walk around it a few
times, ponder its weightiness. As we move ahead from there, our step seems
lighter. Our confidence strengthened somewhat. Maybe it's that feeling of the
light at the end of the tunnel...that sense that we will make it out of the
woods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">All the way through this journey, Peters
voices a confessional with equal parts transparency...honesty...fragile
humanity...despair...hopefulness...and trust...somehow looking beyond the
present doubts and difficult circumstances to a promise of something better. He
notes the "rusted things wearing worn-out crowns," but looks beyond
to "a light that will guide me home."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB">Musically, I hear a palette of Peter
Gabriel...Jackson Browne... and slight traces of Andrew Peterson and Steven
Curtis Chapman. The music is atmospheric, providing a canvas for the brilliant,
lyrical sketches of Eric Peters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-90224639303565568912016-05-26T07:22:00.000-05:002016-05-26T07:34:02.427-05:00Why I Wrote a Children's Picture Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V7KEiUy9E8/V0UZV-pzt1I/AAAAAAAABXs/yPtJ9_oQWBstuMm4KP8kG4g07VaE-N7EwCLcB/s1600/Mosquito%2B...and%2Bmisunderstood%2BFeb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5V7KEiUy9E8/V0UZV-pzt1I/AAAAAAAABXs/yPtJ9_oQWBstuMm4KP8kG4g07VaE-N7EwCLcB/s320/Mosquito%2B...and%2Bmisunderstood%2BFeb.jpg" width="251" /></a></div>
<i>First, let me make this clear: The concept and the words for <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Mosquito-Barry-Dunlap-ebook/dp/B0130MB9OA" target="_blank">Mr. Mosquito</a> were mine, but the illustrations of the talented <a href="http://ehpaintings.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Ellen Howell</a> brought the character to life. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The Kindle version of Mr. Mosquito will be free Thursday and Friday, May 26-27. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Mosquito-Barry-Dunlap-ebook/dp/B0130MB9OA" target="_blank">Here's a link to it.</a><br />
<br />
I live in south Louisiana, so there are two things I understand: humidity and mosquitos.<br />
<br />
At some point in late 2014 the muse struck. I was sitting at my desk, sipping on my first cup of coffee, pecking away at the laptop keyboard...and you guessed it-- a pesky mosquito buzzed me. Right away, I thought about the trivial fact that only female mosquitoes feed on humans, and that prompted me to consider the poor, misunderstood male mosquito. I started typing life from his perspective. Within minutes, the rough draft for the book was on the page.<br />
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I decided to send it to my friend Ellen to see if it inspired her enough to illustrate. She and I worked together via email to collaboratively work out details between the words and the images.<br />
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That's basically how the book came about. Another question, though, is "why?"<br />
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<h3>
Why write a children's picture book?</h3>
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1. We need books for children that are FUN. Brain researchers have found that our brains retain information when it is tied to emotion. If we smile or laugh while reading a book, the odds are greater that we'll remember what we've read.</div>
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2. A children's book is a very ACCESSIBLE way to teach scientific facts. While the premise of the book may seem trivial, it's still a biological fact. I can't tell you the number of times people have told me that they did not know that only female mosquitoes "bite." </div>
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3. SIMPLE truths told as stories can operate as ANALOGIES. As you read <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Mosquito-Barry-Dunlap-ebook/dp/B0130MB9OA" target="_blank">Mr. Mosquito</a>, you will laugh at his tormented existence (using your best Inspector Clouseau accent, please), but you might also realize that there are people who suffer harm in one fashion or another due to the ignorance of others. When we understand the perspective of the male mosquito, it makes us want to ask the question before swatting next time..."is that Mr. Mosquito or Ms, Mosquito?" Unfortunately, male mosquitoes don't all wear black and white striped shirts. That would make it so much easier to tell the difference.<br />
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So if you're thinking about writing a children's book, I say "go for it!" Do the illustrations yourself if you're able; if not, find someone who can capture the essence of your characters on canvas. You will grow from the experience, and you'll share something that will encourage or instruct someone in your audience. Don't let fear of rejection or the ideal of perfection stop you from getting started. </div>
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<i>Have you written a children's book or thought about writing one?</i></div>
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<i>What are other reasons you think we need them?</i></div>
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<i>Join the discussion by leaving a comment.</i></div>
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Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-59486901549849087502016-04-18T15:25:00.000-05:002016-05-25T22:00:20.068-05:0094 Toyota 4Runner Project (Part 1)I drove a 4Runner in the early 1990's and was hooked. For 20-something years I wanted one. Finally, just over a year ago, I found one I could afford. <br />
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<br />
Thus, began the project...<br />
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When I bought it, it had an overheating issue. In fact, upon cranking it, water would pour out from the engine block. Both the owner and I agreed that it needed a water pump, among other things.<br />
<br />
It was almost a year before a well-respected mechanic-friend of mine had time to change the water pump and timing belt. Easy enough, right? Guess again.<br />
<br />
After changing the water pump, the timing belt, and all of the other belts, water still poured forth from the water pump area. Mr. J had to tear down the engine to discover than a 30mm freeze plug was rusted out in the front of the block (right behind where the water pump mounts). Once that remedied, the engine was reassembled. It now runs well, with no temperature issues.<br />
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Check back because there's plenty left to do before it's ready for the road.Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-56026989914672537512016-03-07T08:42:00.003-06:002016-03-07T08:42:47.468-06:00Dealing With Frozen Shoulder:The 4 Worst Things Last June, I noticed a pain in my left upper arm. I didn't think too much about it, but as weeks went by, the pain increased. The pain was tolerable, yet enough to be worrisome. Finally, in October, I gave in and scheduled an appointment with a shoulder specialist. He diagnosed my condition as "Frozen Shoulder," also known as <i>adhesive capsulitis</i>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VGTo4PKebA/Vt2L7kbsOoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/-QMzJ7AubWs/s1600/Depositphotos_39841673_m-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7VGTo4PKebA/Vt2L7kbsOoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/-QMzJ7AubWs/s200/Depositphotos_39841673_m-2015.jpg" width="200" /></a>I received an injection which helped for a few weeks, and went to physical therapy for awhile. At some point, I decided to just endure it, since it is supposed to heal with time. I realize that many people live with much more pain than what I am experiencing with this. Nonetheless, here's my list of the four worst things about Frozen Shoulder:<br />
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1) Changing shirts<br />
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I certainly took for granted changing shirts quickly and without pain, but with "Frozen Shoulder," the process has become a constant reminder of the pain and stiffness. <br />
Unfortunately, button-up shirts are not any easier to deal with than pull-overs. It's the angle of the arm between the elbow and the shoulder that sends a shooting pain. <br />
<br />
2) Sleeping<br />
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Discomfort while sleeping is what drove me to the orthopedist in the first place. At first I tried propping the affected arm on a pillow. Then, I tried changing sleeping positions from one side to the other, and even sleeping on my back. None of these attempts really helped. Every time the arm moved to a certain angle, it would send a pain that ranged from nagging to sharp. The most frustrating aspect of the pain associated with sleeping is when I would have a relatively painless night, and then either reach to turn off the alarm clock or try to push out of bed with the arm. As you can imagine, that is not a fun way to start a day.<br />
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3) Getting in a car with an umbrella during a rainstorm<br />
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In south Louisiana, we have our fair share of thunderstorms. With "Frozen Shoulder," I have learned to dread them. More specifically, a few of my most painful activities have been associated with an umbrella. For example, if you are struggling with "Frozen Shoulder," do not attempt to carry a box in one arm and an umbrella in the other during a blowing rain storm. Also, since my affected arm is the left arm, handling an umbrella (both in and out) in the car during a storm has been extremely painful. Unfortunately, I have not figured out a way around this.<br />
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4) Forgetting<br />
<br />
The absolute worst part of struggling with "Frozen Shoulder" is when the pain subsides and I forget about the condition or when I simply react in a situation, using my arm. There have been times that my son has thrown a ball to me, and I've made a jerking motion upward with the arm to catch it. What a mistake! Also, it is not a good idea to use the arm to play with a feisty kitten that likes to bite. Any sudden jerks of the arm send the pain up the scale. So while it's nice to not be in pain for the moment, be careful: forgetting about it can set you up for the most pain you will likely experience with the condition.<br />
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<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-48820760617259501612014-10-01T14:22:00.000-05:002014-10-01T14:22:46.464-05:00A Review of Bill Mallonee's WINNOWING<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Bill Mallonee & The Darkling Planes: </b><i><b>Winnowing</b><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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The life of a troubadour is often romanticized. Whether it’s
a fascination with the mysterious Woody Guthrie or the freedom supposed in Dylan’s
“Like a Rolling Stone,” most of us have fantasized about being the man with a
song and a guitar, rambling through the world and leaving a trail of songs,
like gold nuggets along the Rio Grande.
It sounds great for romance, but what about reality?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bill Mallonee may be the closest thing we have to this
romantic idea in the flesh. Writing and recording since the late 1980s, Bill
has released close to sixty projects—most full-length, some EPs. Bill knows the
blistering road, the intimate house concert, and the small change to show for
it at the end of the night, yet he continues to put pen to paper and fingers to
fret board as he shares his gift of song. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With no superstructure of support or financial safety net,
he depends on his fan base to continue funding the projects. Earlier this year,
Bill decided to try Kickstarter, the now famous crowd sourcing platform. Within
days of posting his project, Kickstarter suffered a security breach, and Bill
opted to pull the plug rather than jeopardize any of his fans’ financial
safekeeping. Call it a false start, or
just another unlucky bump in the road; Bill dropped back to taking pre-orders
through his site and Bandcamp.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Winnowing</i>, Bill’s
latest record, is now in post-production and scheduled to release in early
September, 2014. I recently spoke with him about the new songs, and even scored
a chance to give the tracks a listen.
Here’s what I found. (You can
hear my interview with Bill <a href="http://www.twelveminutemuse.com/musings/episode-32-chat-bill-mallonee-winnowing/">HERE</a>.)<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bill told me that there’s something about the desert canyons
and the big sky that beckon <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-joc77WN0EOY/VCxT4PQqtEI/AAAAAAAAAjw/kfAY_cdBrOc/s1600/winnowing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-joc77WN0EOY/VCxT4PQqtEI/AAAAAAAAAjw/kfAY_cdBrOc/s1600/winnowing.jpg" /></a></div>
contemplation and reflection. The vastness of the night sky brings a
perspective of smallness and the need to trace one’s steps. This new batch of songs bears witness to this
sentiment. <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The opening three tracks (“Dover Beach”, “Those Locust
Years” and “Old Beat Up Ford”) blend together in mellow, contemplative swirl,
as if mesmerizing the listener like a desert sky. They pull us in with lines
like “Now I am not a scoffer / withholding his thanks / my purse it is empty /
my heart overflows its banks” in the opener. The reflection continues in track 3: “sunlight
sifting through the shadows / it seemed brighter way back then / and I walked
the world in wonder / all dressed up in my new skin.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Got Some Explaining to Do” breaks the opening spell with its
noisy guitars a la Neil Young and reminiscent of <i>The Power & the Glory (2011)</i>. Full of clever lines and social
commentary, Bill admits an evil in the world, but refuses to answer for it;
instead he writes, “no matter what the disguise is/ well, you gotta give the
devil his due / but whoever he is / he’s got some explaining to do.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next two tracks “Dew Drop Inn” and “Blame it on the
Desert Whispering” could have easily found themselves on Bill’s album <i>Dolorosa (2013)</i>. The stripped-down
musical arrangement and the narrative focus of geography capture the sense of
place that is unmistakably New Mexico. For instance, Bill sings on the former “The
road winds hard and the road winds cruel / hearts being what they are / Let’s
just say it will be ok / and I love you, just because.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In the New Dark Ages” has the signature of one of Bill’s
most ambitious albums, <i>Locket Full of
Moonlight (2002). W</i>ith Beatles-esque organ and guitars, Mallonee explores
the current state of expectations concerning relationships where “no one trusts
anyone… [and] they forget to have fun.”
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The album<i> </i>was
originally going to share its title with track 8 “Hall of Mirrors / Room Full
of Woe,” and that doesn’t surprise me. This track is the musical epicenter of
the album, with its layered guitars grabbing the spotlight. And again, Mallonee delivers a tight metaphor
with the following: “Now Death is a boxer / always stalking the ring / grabs
all the prize money / and a few other things / with a 1-2 punch that’s been
stealing the show.” The track’s haunting tone continues, but the lyric turns a
hopeful corner with “what is lost is nothing compared to what gets found.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now You Know” is like a letter to an old friend, with as
many questions as statements. With its delicate instrumentation, the song
sounds as if it could be performed on horseback, meandering through the canyon.
And once again, Mallonee weaves an historical perspective into his craft with
the following: “Well Caesar sat upon a
steed / and waited till the dawn / without a word the die is cast / across a
Rubicon / history's muddy, bloody boots / are ever marching on / now you know.”
This appears as a settled peace that no longer fights to answer questions about
the ever-elusive fame and notoriety hiding around the next bend. Instead, the
craftsman continues to apply his tools of melody and metaphor, with wit and
passion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Tap Your Heart on the Shoulder,” like “Now You Know,”
projects the feel of the troubadour, with the cadence of a slow ride near
sunset. The lyrics, too, paint the picture of a horse-mounted observer, depicting
this present age. Mallonee writes,
“Ain’t nothing left in Oklahoma / On your right or your left hand / We took
God’s good, green earth / and we turned it into sand.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Overall, <i>Winnowing</i>
comes in at 10 cohesive tracks (just over 43 minutes). It’s a journey full of
questions, reflecting on the might-have-beens and the almost-but-not-quites of
one of the most prolific songwriting careers that has been all but overlooked.
From the haunting, opening track, <i>Dover
Beach</i>, to the closing track, Mallonee delivers a fresh collection of tunes
while he scrutinizes the cards he’s been dealt, sorting through both mistakes
and misfortunes. Closing out the album, he sings “Only so many smiles you can
fake…Hey reach over / tap your heart on the shoulder / and see if she’s still
awake.” While we’re left with unanswered inquiries—some that may never be
rejoined, we’re also left with these ten jewels of honest, though-provoking
melodies that cause us to examine our own steps and motives, and in their
stripped-down honesty, awaken our hearts from slumber.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-69223041993774732862014-09-03T08:00:00.000-05:002014-09-03T08:00:16.174-05:00The Value of S3 StatIf you own a blog or a website, there's a strong chance that you are at least curious about your traffic. Usually we try to avoid traffic, but cyber traffic is a different story. Certainly there are people who blog for a small audience and have no ambition to grow the readership, and surely there are other writers who don't care anything about statistics and data. Most of us, however, who spend time creating and publishing work online are at the very least curious about the audience we are reaching.<br />
<br />
When I started<a href="http://www.twelveminutemuse.com/musings/" target="_blank"> my podcast</a> seven months ago, I faced a steep learning curve with just about every aspect of blogging and podcast technology. I had to check out dozens of WordPress tutorials and learn how to use various software programs. After a couple of months of producing podcast episodes, I grew more curious about my audience. Is anyone listening? What episodes are drawing the largest audience?<br />
<br />
As it turned out, I had two means of monitoring my traffic, both provided by <a href="https://www.fatcow.com/join/index.bml?AffID=731032&LinkName=Blog%20Post" target="_blank">my web host</a>. This was great! Each month I reviewed the site visits and was encouraged by the upward trend.<br />
<br />
But it didn't take long to realize there was a discrepancy.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5rhBs6sHzV8/VAcQOolcQ8I/AAAAAAAAAiU/wi3niWLJcDQ/s1600/Depositphotos_46325923_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5rhBs6sHzV8/VAcQOolcQ8I/AAAAAAAAAiU/wi3niWLJcDQ/s1600/Depositphotos_46325923_xs.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>My two reports were not telling me the same thing...not even close. One, for example, was reporting 6,000 visits per month, while the other was reporting 1,200 per month. The difference between the reports began to cause doubt and uncertainty. It also tempted me to share either the higher or lower stat with whomever I was discussing web traffic. This resulted in feeling like I was either not shooting straight with the other person (elevating my stats) or that I was selling myself short (using the lower count). Neither of these options was good.<br />
<br />
And then I ran across <a href="https://www.s3stat.com/Pricing.aspx" target="_blank">S3 Stat</a>.<br />
<br />
Since I was already using Amazon S3 to host my podcast episodes, it made sense to give it a try...especially with their free trial.<br />
<br />
What's been the result of using S3 Stat?<br />
Great question!<br />
<br />
No more guessing. I can share my daily, weekly and/or monthly traffic results with confidence now. I can determine which episode is drawing the largest audience. I can also get a global report, detailing where my audience is located.<br />
<br />
S3 Stat has provided dependable reports that have allowed me to chart the growth of my podcast with confidence. <br />
<br />
<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-36375971595562366202014-07-19T19:03:00.001-05:002014-07-19T19:03:52.301-05:00A Lucky PennyI don't believe in luck- good or bad. If I did, I would be trying hard to get out from under a black cloud that's been hanging around for the last three weeks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrNCsQj6Ow4/U8sGzNv6nsI/AAAAAAAAAf4/bO6Y40Zigl4/s1600/Depositphotos_8745585_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rrNCsQj6Ow4/U8sGzNv6nsI/AAAAAAAAAf4/bO6Y40Zigl4/s1600/Depositphotos_8745585_xs.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a></div>
Two days ago, I stopped and reached for a tarnished penny on the sidewalk.<br />
As I placed it in my pocket, the term <i>lucky penny </i>came to mind. Growing up, that phrase was very commonplace. I would pick up a coin and wonder what good might come my way. As an adult, I now know it is ridiculous to think finding a token on the ground will actually alter the future. I also have come to understand what is meant by the expression <i>lucky penny</i>.<br />
<br />
Lucky is the person who finds the penny, right? What do you mean by lucky? Well, let's use the term <i>fortunate </i>or <i>profitable</i>. Many people use these terms interchangeably in their minds. If they see someone who has prospered in his or her business, they think: <i>he's lucky</i> or <i>she lucked out</i>.<br />
<br />
Many people don't want to accept that many hours, months and years went into the success.<br />
<br />
And that leads us back to the <i>lucky penny</i>.<br />
<br />
The penny was found because someone saw the opportunity and pursued it. The new owner of that lucky penny was aware of her or his surroundings. He or she was paying attention to the details, and not just moving along unconsciously. And that is a lesson worth learning. <br />
<br />
Opportunity exists for us all. We just have to be willing to notice it and go after it.<br />
<br />
As Seneca is often quoted: "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."<br />
<br />
Are you looking for opportunities around you?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-2721147944775414172014-06-26T14:13:00.000-05:002014-06-26T14:13:02.552-05:00The World's Greatest Water FilterThe World's Greatest Water Filter (I'm convinced) was designed and installed in each and every duck! We bought three ducklings this spring, and unlike our chickens, they will drink any water-- no matter what it looks like. <br />
<br />
Chickens are a bit pickier, and who can blame them? I prefer clean drinking water myself, but DUCKS... they swim in it, bathe in it, and then take a slurp. At first, I was worried it may harm them (showing my ignorance of ducks when we brought them home), but that's certainly not the case. <br />
<br />
We are about to purchase a water filter for our home. I came in a couple of days ago and commented to my wife that the <b>ducks must come equipped with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002R8ON3I/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002R8ON3I&linkCode=as2&tag=tweminmus-20&linkId=MHSGX3SJDIGM3ZXQ%22%3ERoyal%20Berkey%20with%202%20Black%20Filters%20and%202%20PF-2%20Fluoride%20Filters%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=tweminmus-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B002R8ON3I" target="_blank">Royal Berkey</a>! In case you don't know about the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002R8ON3I/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B002R8ON3I&linkCode=as2&tag=tweminmus-20&linkId=BO4LRKPWDZ5IZR6O%22%3ERoyal%20Berkey%20with%202%20Black%20Filters%20and%202%20PF-2%20Fluoride%20Filters%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=tweminmus-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B002R8ON3I" target="_blank">Royal Berkey</a>, it is a water filtering system that sits on your counter-top and filters H2O much better than the filters in our refrigerator or filter pitcher. In fact, the Berkey will make ditch water drinkable!</b> You can read more about it <a href="http://www.berkeywater.com/start.main.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br />
<br />
<script charset="utf-8" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=tf_ssw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Ftweminmus-20%2F8003%2F5f76216a-bae3-4135-8684-ea3280581f8f&Operation=GetScriptTemplate" type="text/javascript"> </script> <noscript><a HREF="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?rt=tf_ssw&ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Ftweminmus-20%2F8003%2F5f76216a-bae3-4135-8684-ea3280581f8f&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></noscript>
Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-5261481165430065452014-06-13T09:48:00.000-05:002014-06-17T22:27:43.044-05:00How & Why I Stopped Taking Zyrtec Like most people, I struggle with seasonal allergies. The typical culprits like pollen, ragweed, and leaf mold set me off. You've probably experienced the symptoms: runny nose, sinus pressure, headache, clogged throat.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8YZR_ahwoo/U5sJS4XqsNI/AAAAAAAAAdg/9zp1hbXV4Ic/s1600/Depositphotos_11196953_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8YZR_ahwoo/U5sJS4XqsNI/AAAAAAAAAdg/9zp1hbXV4Ic/s1600/Depositphotos_11196953_xs.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So, years ago I started taking OTC antihistamines to deal with the effects. I tried two or three before I landed on Zyrtec because it seemed to pack the most punch. Just half a dose before bed, and I was knocked out.<br />
<br />
But after awhile, I started noticing some negative effects. First, a half dose was not providing the same relief that it once had; however, taking a full dosage rendered me extremely drowsy. Plus, around twelve hours after taking even a half dosage, I would find myself very irritable. I began to wonder if the irritability was worth the sinus relief. The straw that broke the camel's back for me was when my wife started reading about the drug's damaging effect on the liver. She challenged me to stop taking it.<br />
<br />
Common sense tells us that if we are accustomed to taking something regularly and we stop, we should replace it with something else. So what did I start taking instead of Zyrtec? Glad you asked! I started taking a multivitamin and a grape-fruit seed extract tablet, plus one teaspoon of local honey at least three times per week. It has been six months or more since I have taken Zyrtec, and my sinus issues are better than ever. Plus, I don't struggle with afternoon irritability, and my wife's not worried about my liver. Do you know of any alternatives to the regular use of antihistamines?<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=simple02d-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000I4C0H4&asins=B000I4C0H4&linkId=&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></p>
<p>
</iframe>Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-19069016824319317912014-06-12T17:42:00.002-05:002014-06-12T17:43:44.294-05:00It's Time to Clear the Clutter From Your Inbox!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdvJxG9-i5A/U5osuf6-ZvI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JRw0lXqbWZU/s1600/Depositphotos_5439676_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sdvJxG9-i5A/U5osuf6-ZvI/AAAAAAAAAdU/JRw0lXqbWZU/s1600/Depositphotos_5439676_xs.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
Admit it! You and I both have too much junk in the Inbox. There are lists I subscribed to looking for a $2 coupon, and now I get ads three times each week. I find myself not even opening the email. It's as if the email does not exist, yet it's clutter that I have to deal with each day.<br />
<br />
You're probably thinking: <i>I agree, but I don't have time to go through and unsubscribe to all of those.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Guess what?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
You don't have to spend that much time on it.<br />
<br />
Start with a simple plan to attack the clutter.<br />
<br />
Determine that you will unsubscribe from one list every other day. Within two weeks, you will have removed 7 annoying email generators. You'll begin to have room to breath in your inbox, and your stress level will drop. Within a month, you'll be close to being finished with the chore.<br />
<br />
Give it a try! Start small and be consistent. Get rid of the virtual clutter!<br />
<br />
After that, apply the same approach to your closet or garage.<br />
That's what I need to do!<br />
<br />
<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-19605459575486713962014-06-08T23:43:00.000-05:002014-06-08T23:43:16.541-05:00A Search Tip for CraigslistDo you search for bargains on Craigslist?<br />
<br />
<br />
The key to success on Craigslist is about timing. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PcqZr3l05fs/U5U62hNyOnI/AAAAAAAAAcw/kV0sSClbHrU/s1600/Depositphotos_20458215_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PcqZr3l05fs/U5U62hNyOnI/AAAAAAAAAcw/kV0sSClbHrU/s1600/Depositphotos_20458215_xs.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
Since it's not an auction, the rule of <i>first come- first served</i> applies. If you aren't able to monitor the postings often, your chances of finding the item for which you are searching shrink. Therefore, consistency and patience are crucial, and there's not short-cutting that process.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here's one tip I try from time to time. Being a recovering high school English teacher, I can confidently say that at least half of the general public struggles with spelling. Sometimes when I am searching for an item, especially if it has a proper name, I will purposely misspell the name a few different ways in the search box. If someone misspelled the item, chances are people are not going to find it by searching for it. It may be yours for the taking.<br />
<br />
Give it a try and let me know how it works.<br />
<br />
Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-83960816925080423652014-05-26T12:27:00.001-05:002014-05-26T12:27:56.760-05:00The Good and the Bad of Knowing Yourself Too WellHave you ever noticed how much easier it is to critique or coach someone other than ourselves? Perhaps the adage <i>Familiarity breeds contempt</i> best describes this challenge. While most people would say that knowing ourselves too well becomes a weakness (which I agree), I would add that it can also be a strength if we can slip on a pair of objective lens from time to time.<br />
Let me explain.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QcErKLPum8/U4NzGMOJ47I/AAAAAAAAAb4/6lC5K6qLFUo/s1600/Depositphotos_10053417_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QcErKLPum8/U4NzGMOJ47I/AAAAAAAAAb4/6lC5K6qLFUo/s1600/Depositphotos_10053417_xs.jpg" height="131" width="200" /></a>There's a reason the plumber's spigot has a drip and the mechanic's car has a clink in it. When we see the same things everyday, they become part of our landscape. We become blind to what others see easily. This is why a REALTOR will give a seller a to-do list to the surprised homeowner before the home is ready to show. The homeowner thought it was ready to list. This is why a career consultant has to ask us fifty questions before we articulate our skills.<br />
<br />
So this is a huge challenge because we learn to settle for less than the best. Whether we're dealing with housework, lawn maintenance, exercise, personal growth, or healthy diet planning, we struggle with seeing our blind spots. <br />
<br />
The flip side of this is the good news.<br />
<br />
Many of us have trouble identifying our strengths, skills, and abilities. The term <i>Tacit Knowledge </i>refers to the skills and competencies that we perform without even realizing we are doing them. We have mastered them to the point of being rote. Quite often we see this when a veteran teacher, mechanic, engineer or physician attempts to explain a process to someone who is brand new to the skill. At that point, the person with experience either grows extremely frustrated or realizes the steps in the process that she or he has learned so well that they had otherwise become invisible.<br />
<br />
So here's the challenge: We have to learn to take a step away from ourselves and our surroundings long enough to objectively assess ourselves. What areas do we need to improve? What areas need attention? (That's the weakness.) What skills have I taken for granted? What can I do that others struggle with? (That's the strength.)<br />
<br />
If you're struggling with objectively assessing yourself, ask someone your trust and respect to help. <br />
<br />
Do you have other tips for personal development?Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-34146095206466671562014-04-07T19:43:00.000-05:002014-04-07T19:43:08.542-05:00An Important Business Lesson I learned from Disney’s Frozen<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently joined <a href="http://platformuniversity.com/members/" target="_blank">Platform University</a>, which is a tremendous
entrepreneurial resource provided by Michael Hyatt and his daughter Megan Hyatt
Miller. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the many lessons I have already learned is the importance of
having a photo in which you are facing the camera directly on the About page of
your website. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why is this important?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Great question! It may seem ridiculous to some people and
nit-picky to others,<o:p></o:p></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnK9g5SOMeI/U0NCdtWA3YI/AAAAAAAAAYw/Gs42Hyrxdm4/s1600/Depositphotos_10828194_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QnK9g5SOMeI/U0NCdtWA3YI/AAAAAAAAAYw/Gs42Hyrxdm4/s1600/Depositphotos_10828194_s.jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a> but there is a subtle issue of trust involved in the
position of your eyes in the photo. Your About page is an opportunity for your audience to meet you—often for the first
time. Think about meeting someone in person: do you make eye contact with
them? I certainly hope so. We all associate trust with direct eye
contact, and websites are no different.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I shared this principle with my wife, my daughter
overheard me and chimed in, “that’s just like Hans in <i>Frozen</i>, Dad. In all the
pictures I’ve seen of him, he’s never looking at the camera.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hmm. Subtle does not mean unimportant.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As Coach John Wooden was fond of saying, “It’s the little
details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” <o:p></o:p></div>
Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-22115578958865287812014-01-22T10:05:00.000-06:002014-01-22T10:05:08.269-06:00Starting a Podcast is Like...Earlier this month, I launched a podcast called <a href="http://www.twelveminutemuse.com/musings/" target="_blank">Twelve Minute Muse</a> and what I've learned is that starting a Podcast is like learning a foreign language by immersion. My friend <a href="http://www.devindabney.com/" target="_blank">Devin</a> inspired me to pursue starting one, and he rightly warned me about the steep learning curve. Devin started his podcast-- <a href="http://www.connectedhomeschooling.com/" target="_blank">Connected Homeschooling</a> about five months before I started mine, so he already knew about technical issues and necessary steps. It was great to have him as a resource to help with terminology and directional tips. <br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_9gnFUpggro/Ut_rqMBkj2I/AAAAAAAAAVs/d_scq_2Jqmw/s1600/Depositphotos_6785906_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_9gnFUpggro/Ut_rqMBkj2I/AAAAAAAAAVs/d_scq_2Jqmw/s1600/Depositphotos_6785906_m.jpg" height="187" width="200" /></a><br />
One of the tips Devin shared was to check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xu2QNUY5iyk" target="_blank">Pat Flynn's videos</a> on Youtube. Pat's series was very helpful with the basic steps, from getting started all the way to publishing and tagging. <br />
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The <a href="http://www.48days.net/" target="_blank">48 Days</a> Group for Podcasting and New Media was another great resource for information and encouragement.<br />
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Over the last three weeks, I've learned not only new terms, but have also managed to build and connect pages, links and plug-ins that I had previously feared out of my ignorance. I'm not saying that the process is easy, but with so much support and information readily available, starting a podcast is very possible for anyone. The most important element is to have a vision and passion for your show. Once that's in place, step bravely into the realm of cyber-broadcasting!<br />
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Let me know if I can assist you with your project!<br />
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<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-63858970840854427172013-12-21T08:21:00.000-06:002013-12-21T08:21:29.970-06:00Great Music for the Season<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">CHRISTMAS (the album by husband and wife Phillips/Gullahorn) is a wonderfully pleasant surprise! Don't get me wrong, both Jill Phillips and Andy Gullahorn are gifted musicians, singers, and songwriters, but it's just another Christmas album, right? At first, I expected this would be... You know...the obligatory 8 to 10 songs, with standards everyone knows...no new twists, just jolly-jingle fun.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rZoV2R0PfTY/UrWhEoVy5TI/AAAAAAAAAVA/V_F7KJk4ytM/s1600/christmas+phillips+gullahorn.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rZoV2R0PfTY/UrWhEoVy5TI/AAAAAAAAAVA/V_F7KJk4ytM/s1600/christmas+phillips+gullahorn.png" height="198" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Not the case here. There are some classics, and there aren't many new twists on these, but the arrangements allow the lyrics to be heard in <i>a new way</i>. Plus, the original songs on the album are moving and powerful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And...even if all of the other songs were horrible (<i>which of course, they are not</i>), the album would still be worth the price for the enhanced version of "<b>It's Cold Outside</b>." You've never heard this song so realistically done...<i>especially between a husband and wife</i>. Let's just say that gifting your wife with a less than desirable gift may be enough reason for a guy to be begging to come in even if it weren't cold outside. <b>You've got to hear this version!</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Download these 12 tracks and enjoy!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You can find the download available at <a href="https://store.rabbitroom.com/product/christmas" target="_blank">The Rabbit Room</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Jill-Phillips-Andy-Gullahorn/dp/B004CTCRBA" target="_blank">Amazon</a>.</span><br />
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Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-3688275661978772162013-12-18T09:28:00.000-06:002013-12-18T09:28:05.107-06:00Bots Dominate Web Traffic: A Question of Click Ethics for BloggersYou've probably seen the article headlines like this one from <a href="http://techland.time.com/2013/12/13/robots-have-taken-over-the-internet/">Time Tech</a> that suggests "more than 60 percent of all Internet traffic now comes from bots." Maybe you saw the <a href="http://www.pcworld.com/article/2080300/bots-both-good-and-evil-dominate-the-internet.html">PC World article</a> that stated that "nearly half of those bots are up to no good."<br />
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While many bloggers and surfers read this and feel concern about security issues such as malware and viruses, there are others who view it as a grand opportunity to work the robotic system for an increase in web traffic. For example, I recently read this <a href="http://www.shopify.com/blog/7655755-how-to-double-your-traffic-without-any-marketing#axzz2npkyESJE">article</a> that outlines strategies for increasing your web traffic without paying for advertising. The suggested strategies key on words, phrases, and links that will draw the attention of bots busy about the work of indexing, searching for copyright infringements (on the positive side), or hacking, hi-jacking or impersonating (on the negative).<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vG2AyXQjpUY/UrG5C_V3n3I/AAAAAAAAAUQ/ZLHAUbpg-xY/s1600/Depositphotos_4556185_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vG2AyXQjpUY/UrG5C_V3n3I/AAAAAAAAAUQ/ZLHAUbpg-xY/s1600/Depositphotos_4556185_xs.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><br />
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So, as a blogger, I want to be sure that I frequent my own site to be sure it has not been attacked; I want to be sure my virus protection and malware protection are up to date and active; and I want to ask myself a question about my purpose as a blogger. Here is the question: Do I blog to articulate important ideas, to share opinions or personal experiences, or to generate traffic in an effort to generate passive income?<br />
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There's nothing wrong with utilizing the internet for income, but I think we have to beware of the blurry lines of pragmatism. For example, I can compose blog titles like <i>Miley Cyrus Does it Again</i> or <i>How to Go to College for Free</i> that mislead or focus on sensationalism in order to get a click-- and most clicks will be from robots, and while that may increase traffic on my blog, I must realize that my credibility and reputation is at stake. Are a few robotic clicks worth it? <br />
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Do you have any thoughts on the issue? <br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-7795571814394600252013-12-17T17:39:00.000-06:002013-12-17T17:39:01.949-06:00What Are You About?: Have you Honed an Elevator Pitch?<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8AwbT8xUvc/UrDfK7j71SI/AAAAAAAAAUA/IzKvNELCrE4/s1600/Depositphotos_5215478_xs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e8AwbT8xUvc/UrDfK7j71SI/AAAAAAAAAUA/IzKvNELCrE4/s1600/Depositphotos_5215478_xs.jpg" height="224" width="320" /></a>In business, we often hear the importance of having an elevator pitch. If you're not sure what this is, here's an <a href="http://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/elevator-pitch.htm" target="_blank">article</a> that does a good job of explaining how to craft one. Obviously, an elevator pitch only gets better with time. Not only will you tweak and modify it over time, but you will begin to own it. It will become a succinct proclamation of <i>what you are about</i>. <br />
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As you work on yours, remember to keep it short, personal, focused and engaging... much like this well known <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6JGp7Meg42U" target="_blank">pitch</a>.<br />
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<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-17259311366234128772013-12-11T22:50:00.000-06:002013-12-11T22:50:55.359-06:00Merry Christmas, Brian Wilson!Yesterday, I heard an NPR <a href="http://www.npr.org/2013/12/10/249967933/a-nostalgic-yet-tainted-journey-with-the-beach-boys" target="_blank">review</a> of the latest Beach Boys box set, <i>Made in California</i>. The review was honest, fair, and somewhat somber. Thoughts of the Beach Boys' music is usually anything but somber, but a critical view of their 51 years as a band leaves one thinking about those early bloomers that we all have known-- like the basketball player who (arriving at 6' tall in the 8th grade while everyone else is 5'6") dominates for a season or two and then spends the next four years in athletic decline.<br />
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Yes, it's somewhat sad that the kings of surf music for the most part ran out of creative steam in the late-60's and did their best to ride the wave of the early hits as long as possible. Regardless, no one can argue against the fact that the band responsible for <i>Surfin' Safari</i> and <i>Pet Sounds </i>is one of the most influential groups of all Americana. The harmonious sound they crafted became their brand, and echos of that sound continue to show up in songs, in a subliminal attempt to capture that wide-eyed, youthful vibe.<br />
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As the review wrapped up, and I pondered what could have been if Brian Wilson had remained well and able to develop as a creative artist, I again felt a little mournful for the band whose sound projected fun, but whose story reflects tragedy. I thought about their influence on Mike Roe who wrote a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0OhPBKoHUE" target="_blank">tribute</a> of sorts with his band-mates in The Lost Dogs. I thought about the incredible <a href="http://www.rabbitroom.com/2011/12/how-to-smile/" target="_blank">blog post</a> Ben Shive wrote two years ago about <i>Smile </i>for the Rabbit Room. I thought about the hundreds of times that I've sung along with those harmonies and smiled. All that to say, Merry Christmas, Brian Wilson. Thank you and the rest of the band for giving America 51<br />
years of music to enjoy.Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-43737777097096099812013-12-11T10:50:00.001-06:002013-12-11T10:50:39.442-06:00Is there something better than "You're Welcome"...Really?Last month, I read an <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/today/post/article/20131112175357-69244073-why-you-shouldn-t-say-you-re-welcome" target="_blank">article</a> that suggested not using the phrase "you're welcome," after someone says "thank you." The article was a response to someone who suggested to say instead, "I'm sure you'd do the same thing for me." I have to admit that I was turned off by this brash, egotistical, <i>what's in it for me?</i> language.<br />
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Adam Grant, the author of the article, decided to use the basic suggested approach, but tweak it by saying, "I'm sure you'd do the same thing for someone else." Ok, somewhat better. It's not quite as much focused on <i>how much you now owe me</i> thinking.<br />
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I only mention this article here because I believe that words matter, and that we should strive to choose words that most effectively communicate. With that in mind, I get tired of using the phrase "you're welcome." Sometimes, I process through what the phrase really means. In fact, (I hate to admit this) I have researched it online to get a better understanding. I'm not sure that it is the clearest or best choice for receiving someone's gratitude, but I do know that it's much, much better than the all too common "no problem." I'm not going to rant about that phrase again-- you can read my previously posted rant on my <a href="http://landofmysojournblog.blogspot.com/2011/03/no-problem-is-well-problem.html" target="_blank">blog</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvaMzdD46w/UqflGpdOkCI/AAAAAAAAATY/dzdr7iLJzo8/s1600/Depositphotos_1325048_s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kgvaMzdD46w/UqflGpdOkCI/AAAAAAAAATY/dzdr7iLJzo8/s1600/Depositphotos_1325048_s.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>I also know this: when I drove thru at Chik-fil-a earlier this evening and said "thank you," I cannot imagine that the young lady working the drive-thru would have responded with, "I'm sure you would have done the same for someone else." When I imagine this, I think: <i>what does that mean?</i><br />
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If you think of a better response than "you're welcome," please let me know.<br />
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Thanks!<br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Barry </i></span>Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-6283677221005220032013-12-06T15:04:00.001-06:002013-12-06T22:51:30.491-06:00Thoughts on Seabiscuit: There's Something Worse than a Bad Leg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As Seabiscuit was returning to racing form, there was much concern and question as to whether Red Pollard would be ready to ride. Both the horse and the jockey had suffered serious injuries, but Pollard's leg was beyond serious. No doctor would even consider releasing him to ever ride another horse, much less race one. Howard (the owner), Smith (the trainer), and even Pollard himself knew that any kind of fall or collision would cripple the jockey. Yet, Pollard would not take <i>no</i> for an answer. He wanted more than anything to race and win with Seabiscuit. <br />
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As Howard struggled with his decision, he spoke with Pollard's friend, journalist David Alexander. During their conversation, Alexander asked Howard what his plans were for the race.<br />
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"'If Red breaks that leg again,' Howard said soberly, 'it will cripple him for life.'<br />
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Alexander told him that maybe it was better to break a man's leg than his heart" (366).<br />
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Pollard would ride and win the race.<br />
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This reminds me an old truth: <br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"></span>The <b>spirit</b> of a man can endure his sickness, But <i>as for</i> a <b>broken</b> <b>spirit</b> who can bear it? (Proverbs 18:14)<br />
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Handle people's hearts and dreams carefully.Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-56756048312626989792013-12-04T21:15:00.000-06:002013-12-04T21:15:39.725-06:00Thoughts on Seabiscuit: Elements of a Comeback<i>Seabiscuit</i> is a fascinating story with many lessons; one of those lessons is presented in "Chapter 21: A Long, Hard Pull." Virtually everyone had given up on both the horse and the jockey after each sustained serious injury. They were both deemed "washed up." There were three elements, though, that contributed to their comeback.<br />
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First, they had time to heal. Hillenbrand writes, "Slowly, painfully, horse and rider healed" (349). In this case, the comeback depended on physical healing. In other cases, a person's comeback may also involve emotional and, perhaps, spiritual health. While the healing process was frustrating for jockey, horse, trainer and owner, it could not be rushed. Each had to face each new day with an expectant hope that healing would come. In time, it would indeed arrive.<br />
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Next, the comeback needed a plan. As both the rider and the horse improved, the rehabilitation strategy was increased. Again, Hillenbrand writes, " Pollard had learned a thing or two about training from Smith, and he managed Seabiscuit's rehabilitation carefully. By early summer, walking turned to a gentle canter, first a mile, then two, then three" (351). There was a vision and a plan for bringing them back to health, back to competing. It didn't happen overnight, but gradually the plan set the stage for a comeback.<br />
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Finally, the team had hope and a desire to win. Even though the general public expected that Seabiscuit would never race again, Team Howard held on to the hope that he would. That hope was not some pipe dream, but was based on the past experiences of a proven winner. The past, though, was not enough. In order to complete the comeback, a desire to win was necessary. Marcella Howard noticed this on her trips to the barn when "Seabiscuit was pacing around his stall... When he paused, he directed his gaze at the horizon, distracted. [Charles] Howard saw that look and knew what it meant, 'You knew he wanted to race again,' he said, 'more than anything else in the world'" (352). Both Seabiscuit and Pollard desperately want to race again. That driving desire, along with time, and a plan, brought about one of the greatest comebacks in American history.<br />
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<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-62252835603346421542013-11-30T16:14:00.000-06:002013-11-30T16:14:02.203-06:00My List of Least Favorite People (Warning: This Might Be Offensive)<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>I must warn you before you read any further: You may find this post offensive.</u></b></div>
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If you were asked to make a list of 5 or 10 of your least favorite people, would you consider it a challenging task, or would names fly left and right? Would the names on your list be celebrities, co-workers, relatives, or bosses and politicians? Do you already have a mental list in a downloadable format...on standby just in case someone asks or mentions a name on your list?</div>
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Like everyone else, I have struggled in life with bitterness, a judgmental attitude, and down-right jealousy. In those moments of clarity (few and far-between), I have realized that the people who most annoy me, irritate me, or just rub me the wrong way, are often more like me than I want to admit. Hardly anyone thinks he or she is perfect, and most of us are quick to admit that we have plenty of shortcomings; however, we seldom identify our flaws. I want to suggest that when you and I see our flaws in other people, they drive us crazy. We want to stamp out the arrogance in her or <i>fix </i>the clumsiness in him or thump that person for a lack of compassion... We want to pass judgment on the faults in others because those very faults live in us. Far too often, though, we fail to see them in ourselves. </div>
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So here's the tough part of this post-- go back through your list of least favorite people. Once you discern why each person is on your list, ask the hard question: <i>Do I struggle with the same issues that landed them on my list? </i></div>
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If we can work on overcoming the issues we struggle with, we will find other people much more bearable. In the history of mankind, there has only been one perfect life lived. The owner of that life taught that we should love people-- yes, even the people who remind us of our own flaws. </div>
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<i>Give it a try!</i></div>
<br />Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-51316535090575467402013-11-25T22:15:00.000-06:002013-11-25T22:15:47.705-06:00Thoughts on Seabiscuit: Leaders Give Second Chances-- sometimes more<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Early in the story, we find that the Trainer (Smith)
"knew he had found the right jockey" in Red Pollard. Pollard was not the most congenial or
well-mannered guy, but he connected with Seabiscuit, and he loved to win. In Seabiscuit's first big race, he was
positioned to win; however, Pollard made a mistake that lost the race by
inches. The media and the fans were all belligerent about Pollard's mistake,
but the same wasn't true of the Owner (Howard) and the Trainer (Smith).
"He (Pollard) was publicly accused of inexcusable failure in the most
important race of his career, but he could not defend himself. Had he let on
that he was blind in one eye, his career would have been over... If his
blindness was the cause of the loss, his frustration and guilt must have been
consuming. Howard accepted Pollard's explanation without criticism. Neither he
nor Smith blamed him. Almost everyone else did" (147).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">This exhibit of mercy reminded me of a story Dennis Rainey
recently shared in one of the devotionals from <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.familylife.com/find-help/daily-inspiration/moments-with-you#.UpQY7cSkp4o">http://www.familylife.com/find-help/daily-inspiration/moments-with-you#.UpQY7cSkp4o</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">"For many years Bob Brenly was the starting catcher for
the San Francisco Giants. But because of a last-minute lineup change on this
very date in 1986, he was pressed into duty at third base. Everything was going
fine ... until the fourth inning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">That's when he committed not one, not two, not three, but a
record-tying four errors in the same inning--including two on the same play. In
fact, he almost had a fifth error. "I missed a head-high line drive that
tipped off the webbing of my glove and went into left field," Brenly said.
"If they hadn't called that one a hit, my name would have stood alone in
the record books."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The home crowd booed. His coaches and teammates avoided even
looking at him. But his manager left him in the game. Good thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">When Bob came up to bat the following inning, he smashed a
solo home run. His next at-bat was a two-run single in the seventh to tie the
game. And with his final plate appearance of the day in the ninth inning, he
stroked a game-winning homer. His manager later commented, "This man
deserves to be the Comeback Player of the Year for this game alone."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Have you ever had someone believe in you, even when no one
else did? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Georgia","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Are you looking for ways to give second chances to people
who are on the verge of a breakthrough?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3848254897036780834.post-26366304435916940772013-11-04T18:43:00.000-06:002013-11-04T18:43:13.586-06:00Thoughts on Seabiscuit: The Importance of TeamAs I am reading <i>Seabiscuit </i>by Laura Hillenbrand, there are many wonderful nuggets jumping off the pages. I will do my best to share several of these with you in upcoming posts. For now, I want to simply state the obvious point that the story makes: there is a strength and richness in a team that far exceeds the talents and gifts of the individual members.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dJDB57bTz0/Ung-yFD14JI/AAAAAAAAARM/lRKHfHAN4nA/s1600/seabiscuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4dJDB57bTz0/Ung-yFD14JI/AAAAAAAAARM/lRKHfHAN4nA/s1600/seabiscuit.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MCqF7YXnt-Q/Ung-eu8oS1I/AAAAAAAAARE/30vvyUHbsH4/s1600/seabiscuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><i>Seabiscuit</i> (the story) is really about<i> </i>four characters-- the owner, the trainer, the jockey and the horse. Hillenbrand does a wonderful work of introducing the audience to each one. Not surprisingly, we find that each character, certainly with his own gifts and potential, was on a downhill slide-- not a complete failure, but far from where he dreamed he would be.<br />
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I love the way Hillenbrand ends chapter 6: "The scattered lives of Red Pollard, Tom Smith, and Charles Howard had come to an intersection. Their crowded hour had begun" (113). We see a wonderful picture of the convergence of gifts, talents, and shared ambition. We see the birth of a team-- the birth of a legend.Barryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00108810343661130076noreply@blogger.com0